Thursday 9 May 2013

Live Review: Chlöe Howl (BidoLito! Sound City Daily)


Chlöe Howl
Liverpool Sound City (Friday 3rd May)
Liverpool Academy Of Arts


If 2012 was the year of the guitar then 2013 is definitely the year of the female. Artists like Charli XCX, Icona Pop, Sky Ferreira and tonight’s guest CHLOE HOWL are bridging the gap between pop and indie, nestling comfortably between the UK Top 40 and the Pitchfork reviews column in a way that transcends our modern perception of acclaim.

Chloe ushers quietly on stage before solemnly introducing herself to a sparse, disinterested crowd. With a Radio 1 rotation already in place, her disappointment is justified. New single Rumour announces itself among a sea of sparkling synths and hi-hats, as that obnoxious chorus of “I’m just trying to work out / How to be like myself” charges onwards with an infectious energy. Paper Heart and Pull The Strings are equally as impressive, balancing sensitive folk with quirky synth pop in the same way as Tegan and Sarah have done so well this year.

There are some similarities to Kate Nash here, and before you slam your pint down in disgust, I mean this with the greatest of compliments. When Foundations first came about, Kate embodied an empowered, do-what-the- fuck-I-like mentality that was missing from female pop music. Tonight’s performance from Chloe exemplifies this, with her seductive winks at the front row and her MC-esque hand gestures radiating a confidence and self-assurance that will propel her far beyond these modest surroundings.

Between all the buoyancy and poise, there’s an air of introspection; even solipsism to Chloe’s songs which makes her gloriously fascinating. Believe me Chloe; you’re doing just fine. 

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