Why did St. Vincent’s Greek Theatre show captivate Los Angeles?

St. Vincent, the stage name of musician Annie Clark, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on Friday, August 16, 2024. The concert, which was part of her ongoing tour, showcased her unique blend of art rock, industrial rock, and soulful lounge music, captivating the audience from start to finish.

A Night to Remember

The evening began with the hauntingly beautiful “Reckless,” featuring Clark’s soft vocals over a slow piano melody. As the band joined in, the song transformed into a powerful industrial grind, setting the tone for the night. The energy continued with “Fear The Future,” driven by the skittering guitars of Clark and Jason Falkner, and the relentless rhythms of drummer Mark Giuliana.

St. Vincent’s performance was not just about the music; it was a visual spectacle as well. Clark made her entrance singing from inside one of three arches on stage, which moved and lit up in various colors throughout the show. These minimalist pieces added to the ever-changing stage set, enhancing the overall experience.

Musical Chameleons and Inspirations

Often compared to David Bowie, one of her acknowledged inspirations, St. Vincent’s setlist was a testament to her versatility. The funky synth grooves of “Pay Your Way in Pain” brought the spirits of Bowie and Prince into the night, while “Digital Witness” with its electronica-meets-marching band horns, harkened back to her 2013 duo album with David Byrne, “Love This Giant.”

Clark’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles was evident as the squelchy synths of “Los Ageless” slid into the groove of “Big Time Nothing.” The small video screens behind the band displayed close-up, black-and-white images of Clark’s face, flickering past in double time, adding a surreal touch to the performance.

Midway through the show, Clark shared a personal moment with the audience, reflecting on her journey from feeling out of place in Texas to inviting 5,000 people to her party. This sentiment was echoed in the lyrics of “Sweetest Fruit,” a track from her new album “All Born Screaming,” which calls for resilience in the face of obstacles.

The Emotional Climax

As the show reached its peak, Clark’s energy was infectious. The clang-clash percussion of “Broken Man” saw her performing herky-jerky dance moves, while the noise-punk dissonance of “Krokodil” had her staggering around the stage, falling, flailing, and ultimately crowd surfing into the pit and back.

The final run of songs slowed things down, starting with the dreamy new track “Hell Is Near,” sung with eyes closed and one hand aloft with fingers crossed. “Candy Darling,” from the 2021 album “Daddy’s Home,” placed Clark center stage in a single spotlight, singing its lovely melody over the keyboard accompaniment of Rachel Eckroth.

In a heartfelt moment, Clark introduced “New York,” one of her most-adored songs, by expressing her newfound love for Los Angeles. She encouraged the audience to substitute their own L.A. landmarks for the New York references in the lyrics, eliciting laughter and cheers.

The main set concluded with the title track from her new album, “All Born Screaming.” The song’s swirling rhythms and extended outro had Clark and the band softly singing the title words repeatedly, creating a hypnotic atmosphere.

Despite the lack of encores on this tour, the enthusiastic crowd’s cheers brought Clark back on stage for one final song, “Somebody Like Me.” Accompanied by Eckroth on piano, Clark’s poignant lyrics resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impression.

Upcoming Events at the Greek Theatre

The Greek Theatre continues to host an array of exciting events. Upcoming performances include Nightmares On Wax presenting Carboot Soul on September 5, 2024, and the Chrome Nights North American Tour with Ruth Radelet on September 13, 2024. Other notable acts include Hovvdy and Keni Titus on September 28, 2024, and Slayyyter & Maude Latour on October 9, 2024. The venue, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere, remains a favorite among both artists and fans.

Our Advice on the City

For occasional travelers visiting Los Angeles, attending a concert at the Greek Theatre is a must. The venue’s unique outdoor setting, nestled in Griffith Park, offers a magical experience under the stars. Arrive early to explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy a picnic before the show.

For seasoned travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known music venues in Los Angeles. Places like The Troubadour and The Roxy Theatre offer intimate settings and a chance to discover emerging artists. Additionally, take the time to visit local record stores like Amoeba Music, where you can find rare vinyl and connect with fellow music enthusiasts.

In conclusion, St. Vincent’s performance at the Greek Theatre was a mesmerizing blend of music and visual artistry, leaving the audience in awe. Whether you’re a casual visitor or an experienced traveler, Los Angeles offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences waiting to be explored.