After anticipating the concert for weeks, my friends and I finally secured our spot in line for Clairo’s Charm Tour at KEMBA Live! Oct. 20.
We eagerly waited for a short time before Clairo appeared on stage. When she first came out, background music was playing while she sat, talked and drank with her band on the side of the stage, building suspense for her performance with each passing second. Finally, she took her place in the center of the stage with a microphone stand. The band stood with their instruments on risers surrounding her, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
She began her concert with the touring album’s opening track “Nomad” as the crowd excitedly sang along. She played a mixture of songs from her new album, such as “Second Nature” and “Add Up My Love,” and some of her older, popular songs such as “4EVER” and “Flaming Hot Cheetos.” The old songs felt nostalgic, which contrasted with the newer songs and created a unique blend of music.
A few moments during the performance of songs “Amoeba” and “Bags” were the most memorable. Before performing “Amoeba,” Clairo announced the song was her favorite to perform, and she requested the crowd sing and dance along with her. Additionally, during one of her most popular songs, “Bags,” my friends and I held each other and listened to the crowd scream the words.
I enjoyed how interactive she was with her fans, pointing the mic at us to yell lyrics back at her. At one point, a fan from the pit yelled it was their birthday, and she had the crowd sing “Happy Birthday” to them. At another point, she drew an animal for someone holding up a sign asking her to design their future tattoo.
Although many aspects of the concert were amazing, it felt a little short, spanning only an hour and 20 minutes. Additionally, some older fan favorite songs were missing from the setlist, like “Sofia,” which would have been so fun to sing with other fans since many love it.
The intimate vibe of the venue was so special, and I will be reminded of my concert experience every time I listen to Clairo.
