Review and Photos by Brittne Lunniss
The line for Wolf Alice wrapped well along the block. Impatient concert-goers shivered outside as we observed the bustle of Pike Place Market in front of us. As the line started to move, the crowd began to warm up with excitement.
The Blossom kicked off the show and I was immediately taken aback by their presence. Sydney-born frontperson, Lily Lozette bopped around stage, cheekily revealing boxer briefs beneath their puffy short dress. Like the lovechild of Baby Spice and a Power Puff Girl, Lozette was cute, empowered, and had everyone’s attention.
The relationship between Lozette and guitarist Tyler McCarthy was charming, to say the least. The duo served an outstanding stage presence and captured their audience with playful interactions.
While all of The Blossom’s songs were impressive, I was particularly drawn to their tune “Hardcore Happy.” “Hardcore Happy” is the indie-pop anthem I never knew I needed. Lyrically, it cuts deep. Musically, it feels playful. Lozette sings of a desire to be liked by everyone as the world burns around them. They do this while skipping across the stage in leg warmers. This conflicting dynamic is a defining theme for The Blossom and I am here for it.
The Blossom took a bow and flashed their briefs in a final adieu. I anxiously reviewed the photos I had just taken while waiting for Wolf Alice to begin their set. A few minutes before showtime, security allowed us to enter the pit. Before I knew it, frontwoman Ellie Rowsell took the stage and suddenly, I felt starstruck. The alternative dream pop/rock group was more than I could have asked for. Somehow, every band member was stunningly beautiful. Maybe it’s a British thing? I was so mesmerized I had to remind myself to keep shooting.
Wolf Alice knows how to create a cinematic experience for their audience. Perhaps the group’s most popular song, “Don’t Delete The Kisses,” had the crowd swaying in rhythm as Roswell crooned about a love that could have been. Their equally popular hit “Smile,” was heavy and hypnotic. Wolf Alice certainly demonstrated an ability to switch gears from dream pop to electric rock at the flip of Roswell’s bob.
I couldn’t help but dance as I photographed the band. A sold-out Showbox. A happy crowd. A wonderful band. I purchased a Wolf Alice sweatshirt before I left and thought, “Damn. Let’s do it again.”
