CONCERT STORIES: VITALIA: WITNESSING GREATNESS
One of my favorite things in this life (I have said it before and, I will say it a million times more) is experiencing this feeling of being in a movie, a dream. “Am I here right now? Is this my life? Whoa, my life is generally pretty cool!” Vitalia’s show felt like witnessing a meaningful moment in someone’s promising career. She is already a star; the rest of the world just needs to see how bright she can shine.
Vitalia and her bandmates after the show, photo by me, Music Breather/Ariane
Call me cheesy, but I believe every show is special in its own right (at least to me). With how much that show meant to Vitalia, I knew it had to be unforgettable. I knew she was ready to give us her all. It was a birthday and EP release show after all. Celebrating the first complete body of work you share with the world is not an ordinary event. For some artists, a night like last Friday could be a turning point in their career and existence. As soon as my friends and I stepped in La Sala Rossa, I felt like the night had to be one I remember for a long time. If you have been to that venue before, you know there is a pretty high stage for a venue that is considered small. It is not your typical close-to-the-ground kind of stage. However, that stage was reserved for DJ Dromore who played before and after Vitalia’s set. The space for Vitalia to perform was a built-in stage that featured a little catwalk. This setup made the experience simultaneously larger than life and intimate. I know it may not make much sense, but if you were there, I'm sure you understand or at least I hope you do.
From every song included on her first EP released earlier this month to covers of classic hits by modern legends such as Lady Gaga and Paramore, Vitalia's performance had a little bit of everything for everyone. Vitalia smiles from ear to ear even when singing about heartbreak. That is how much she enjoys sharing her music with people in a room. Who says we have to be dead serious all of the time? It is giving: “Yeah, you broke my fucking heart, but I am stronger now. I wrote an amazing song about what you put me through, and I get to do what I love the most with and for people who care.” Moreover, Vitalia has a skill not every performer has. She has a knack for being able to eloquently and comfortably talk to a crowd like they were (new and old) pals. Her stage banter is entertaining and pertinent. It feels natural. She has things to say and is not just trying to fill a void. The talented Montreal singer even included two unreleased tracks in her setlist both significantly different from one another, proving that Vitalia is not just your typical Pop star. Yes, she has catchy songs, but Vitalia is not afraid of exploring and wearing her influences on her sleeve. On one song, Vitalia channeled Hayley William’s (Paramore) energy, while the other track was reminiscent of something Dua Lipa could release. Either way, just like Vitalia said during my lovely interview with her: “I have been saying I am the next Dua Lipa, but at the same time, I am like: No, I am the first Vitalia”. Vitalia closed her stellar set by performing “Moly”, her most popular song yet gaining up to 60 000 views on YouTube. The type of energy that filled the room was a good indicator of the fact that attendees knew and appreciated that queer anthem.
Guess what? The crowd showed up in every sense of the term by making sure the show was memorable for Vitalia as well. There are nights like last Friday night when the artist and the crowd have each other’s back. There was something magical about watching an artist I interviewed do their thing brilliantly in front of an engaged and supportive crowd. To quote “Big Casino” by Jimmy Eat World, I thought to myself: “I play my little part in something big.”
Vitalia performing the fan favourite "Molly"
What else can I say? Vitalia’s show last Friday was exactly the kind of night the world needs right now.
I hope this entry of mine has inspired you to give more local artists and bands a chance. Yes, they’re local, but many were born to take over the world. They might need a little help. Your attention and presence may seem like nothing but it can change everything.
Your favourite blogger/lover of the Montreal music scene,
Ariane
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