Kitsch Americana songstress Lana del Rey announced her concert at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro with less than a month’s notice to her fans and it was received in high and excited demand. Having been a fan since her debut single back in 2011, this gig was a must see on my gig bucket list. According to one member of staff, there had been fans queuing outside the doors from 11am the day before to ensure they got a premium standing position to see their idol.
Her fifth studio album ‘Lust for Life’ has received critical acclaim, debuting at Number 1 on the American, UK and Australian charts as well as countless other countries, making her one of the hottest acts currently on the music scene.
I was lucky enough to experience my first visit to The Hydro Club. The chic (and reasonably priced) bar and interior made me grow with anticipation to see the Queen of Holyweird. The lack of queuing into the venue was also a big benefit! The seats were central and the perfect elevation and distance from the stage to immerse myself in the evening but also be relaxed.
When she arrived, the scream was deafening as she floated across the stage, almost nonchalant at the cries of her devoted fans. Her setlist was varied, transporting us through her discography laced with nostalgic conversation, recalling the time that she lived in Glasgow.
Her melancholy lyrics were met with sultry dancers who doubled as backup vocalists as the band were an accessory to the star. Her vocals were crystal clear and effortless as she glided between octaves and evoked emotion whilst maintaining her signature pout, only breaking into smiles at the end of each song.
There were a few little disappointments of the evening. The first being the lack of warm up act, especially as fans were healthily filling the venue by 7.30pm hoping to see the ‘and guests’ which was featured on the ticket and had to wait until 9pm for the brunette siren to appear. Although a robust set list, her vocals only lasted a brief 70 minutes. Finally (which is a nit pick), she didn’t thank her band during the set who had exhausted their efforts to support her, a small peeve of mine due to my instrumental experience.
None the less, an entertaining evening and a unique addition to my growing gig collection.
Rating 3/5
AJ x
AJ’s Rambling 