In the weeks leading up to her show at Madison Square Garden, I would basically gloat to anyone that would listen, “I’m going to an Ellie Goulding concert during spring break!”
When people asked if I was ready to go home, my enthusiasm level lowered a bit. Don’t get me wrong– this winter I longed for family time and home cooked meals, but the chance to see an artist whose music sounds like a new age spiritual awakening made me anxious.
On March 13, Goulding opened up her performace in a great way with “Figure 8” at MSG’s Theater. Throughout the show, strobe lights in purples and reds and triangles (her favorite shape) complimented the stage. Fans in the crowd expecting performances primarily from Halcyon Days were treated with a setlist that saluted Goulding’s initial fan base. The Brit delivered with older hits like “The Writer”, “Starry Eyed”, and, of course, “Your Song”, her famed Elton John update.
As the night went on, Goulding blessed the crowd with the tunes we all know and love. Before singing “Anything Could Happen”, she told the crowd to break out the dance moves, especially the embarrassing ones. The audience, filled with positive vibes, lovers and friends, followed the blonde’s orders.
The songstress delivered her best track of the night with “Only You”. Goulding’s live version, along with her tribute on the drums to M.I.A., reminded me of a tribal ceremony, which is odd because I’ve never been to one.
Besides Goulding’s extra-terrestrial vocals, the night shined with help from her band and backup singers.
The angelic singer already made her way to the District with a show at Echostage, but more talented acts are making their way to the city this spring.
Upcoming Shows in Washington, DC:
4/1 Childish Gambino, The Filmore Silver Spring
4/8 James Vincent McMorrow, Sixth & I Historic Synagogue
4/14 London Grammar, 9:30 Club
5/2 Iggy Azalea, The Filmore Silver Spring
Photo Credits:
Samantha Baker and Joseph Harsey
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