It finally happened! Eleven years after I became a fan of Zara Larsson, I got to see her live in concert in Brisbane city!
When her tour was first announced with no Australian dates I was pretty devastated.
After a career best year, she still didn’t want to come and see us down here? You get used to this sort of disappointment as an Aussie, but I was a little worried, wondering how and more importantly, if I ever was going to see her.
Fortunately, she was just warming up with all the other dates, so she could bring her best show to us later in the year! The ticket sale was so nerve-wracking, and I told everyone at work not to even talk to me until I got them—because there is no way I was missing this.
Finally secured, the relief hit first, and then excitement! Now, after seeing it all, I knew it was all worth it.
Getting There
My sister and I caught the bus in, and walked across the bridge to the Riverstage. It’s a lovely walk through the city in the evening, as you can see the CityCats and other boats passing by. The bridges were blue and red tonight, and it’s always fun to see which colours they choose.
Then, as you get closer to the stage, you can see the beautiful trees all lit up with fairy lights. It’s one of my favourite things to see around Brisbane, giving a hint of beauty even as the sun goes down and we all retreat into our homes for the night. At least something in this daylight-mad city stays on late!
Riverstage itself is a big outdoor entertainment venue in Brisbane City, with a stage at the bottom of a big hill. Situated right on the Brisbane river, it is next to the Goodwill Bridge.
The Opener
The opener was Cat & Calmell a pop duo from Sydney. These ladies were fantastic, playing some of their own songs as well as other huge hits. They had the crowd up and about early, lifting the energy before Zara’s set. (Can I call her Zara? I mean, I’ve loved her for over a decade now. I’m going to call her Zara.)
I really liked the covers they did, showcasing their talent as they performed blockbuster songs like ‘Clarity’ by Zedd and ‘4ever‘ by The Veronicas. They also played ‘Fuck My Computer’ by Ninajirachi, which I heard for the first time when she opened at the Tame Impala Concert the other night.
I’ll definitely be checking out their work too, they made two new fans in me and my sister last night!
The Concert!
Then it was time! We had a pretty good spot on the right side of the hill, about halfway up the slope. We did have to move at one point, because a father put his young daughter on his shoulders. She was wearing a baggy jumper too, so I literally could not see anything. I want everyone to enjoy concerts when they go, especially younger girls, but doing that is so annoying for all the people behind. Please just go and stand at the back or to the sides where you won’t be blocking the view!
Zara’s walkout song tonight was ‘Thunderstruck’ by AC/DC, a classic Aussie hit that had the crowd up and about early. The hype was real, and people were almost in a frenzy by the time she and her dancers hit the stage.
The opening song, ‘Midnight Sun’, set the tone for both the album and the summery pop concert. Her vocals, dancing ability and general vibe are all amazing, and she has become such a fantastic entertainer. You can view the whole set list here.
As I said, I’ve been a fan of Zara for years, so hearing the new songs, which she’s found so much success with, as well as the older songs that I’ve been singing along to for years is so cool. They are as amazing live as they are on record, if not better. I especially liked the way she remixed them, spliced and mashed them g together, or reimagined them with a more rock focus.
Live music is so good, and I especially love seeing and hearing the band. The drummer, (Aussie!) bassist, guitarist and keyboardist were all fantastic, with solos every now and then to close out the songs too. Most of my favourite artists are rock bands, so it’s become one of my favourite parts in the concert.
Another thing I love to see is costumes! Zara has created such a cohesive and easily identifiable brand with this Midnight Sun era. The bright colours, glitzy sparkles, fun ruffles, and unique makeup looks all contribute to the world she’s created. Her makeup artist, Sophia Sinot has taken the world by storm with her amazing looks, and you can see the ‘Blue Moon’ inspired art she did for our concert above! Her interview with Teen Vogue has so many great insights into how their relationship began, as well as their process developing looks for the tour.
Last night, her outfits were top tier, with a stunning blue and green ensemble to start the show (below), and multiple bright coloured outfits throughout.
While following the tour and writing this post, I’ve read a little more about the creative masterminds who actually put together her tour looks and wardrobe. This article by Victoria Montalti from Refinery 29 is a must-read, as it elaborates on the journey of designers like Caterina Ospina (stylist), Sorcha O’Raghallaigh (designer), Lis Dominguez (Alineo Studio designer) and Aitana Lorenzo (Ayquechulo designer).
This article from The Irish Times by Ella Sloane about O’Raghallaigh is also amazing, delving deeper into the designer herself. O’Raghallaigh’s self-proclaimed obsession “with escapism and fantasy through clothes” no doubt helped her to curate the vivid, beautiful and fantastic wardrobe that has defined Larsson’s latest era.
The bright colours and sparkles are just so fun, something that seems to be severely lacking these days. Entertainers are here to entertain, and Zara embraces that perfectly. She absolutely shines, not only on the stage but in her very essence and energy everyday.
Of course everyone in the audience was dressed up for her too! I saw hundreds of girls and women dressed like Zara, with ruffle skirts, flowers in their hair, and bedazzled faces. The short skirts and summery tops were especially amazing considering it was cold, windy, and possibly going to rain! Props to the ladies who braved it! I unfortunately had to ditch my skirt for a pair of jeans and a jacket.
It was difficult to choose a favourite song from the show, as they are all so good, but I was especially glad to hear (and belt out the words to) ‘Ruin My Life’, ‘Hot and Sexy’, ‘The Ambition’, ‘Never Forget You’ and ‘Lush Life’. It was genuinely a treat, as I’ve been listening to these and more for years now. Her popular songs are well-known because they are so good, and I’m glad she’s finally being recognised!
Her voice is so strong, clear, and powerful. Live, she was able to show off even more, holding huge notes after her dance breaks and incredible runs. Singing the same way live as you do on a recording is difficult, but she was outstanding. The mic was on, and boy did she let us know about it! The only unfortunate thing (if you can really call it that!), is there were times when the audience was so loud I couldn’t hear her! Can you believe it?
To close out the show, Zara always brings out one lucky fan to dance to ‘Lush Life’ with her. This night, a young woman named Sarah got the honours. Zara spray painted ‘Down Under’ on her shirt, then they got to dancing. It was awesome seeing how many people around the ground danced along with them.
By that time, my sister and I had gone up the hill to get some more water, knowing the show would end soon. We stood near the section for those in wheelchairs and with disabilities, and got to watch the sign-language interpreters dancing along during the song too. It was another awesome part of the show, as you could see how many people from all different walks of life could enjoy Zara’s music.
And that’s what it’s all about, at the end of the day. Music is our great connector, linking a young woman from Sweden to people all around the world, even little old me in Brisbane, Australia.
I’m sure you can tell how much this meant to me, and I am so glad that she finally came to perform here! I wouldn’t have missed this concert for the world, and I’m so grateful to Zara for the opportunity. It was a fantastic night, and I hope she’ll be back soon to perform in those stadiums she dreams of.
Until next time, x
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