Live Review: Elle King - Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver 21/05/2019

Elle King plays a jaw-dropping set at Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom, with support from Barns Courtney.

Vancouver has been home to quite a few Brits these past few weeks, from Tom Odell to Billie Martin, and now Barns Courtney. The performer otherwise known as a ruthless on-stage energy, he sets out to bring just that to our city tonight. Running from side to side, the crowd play along in this fickle game of fetch - relentlessly screaming as he creeps closer and closer to them.

Courtney continues to demand praise from the audience - whether thats by echoing the lyrics, shooting limbs in to the air or maybe jumping as high as possible for too long, either way, his fans happily give back. The set closes with Fire, and what better way to end an already raucous set than to climb into the boisterous mosh pit that has been looming but not quite forming. As security dangle over the edge, Courtney lodges himself in the very middle of it all. Causing chaos from the get-go and breathless as he walks off, he leaves behind his mark.

As fans cool down, they are reminded of who brought them out tonight and sure enough, in no time Elle King herself struts to stage and instantly lights up the room. Her entrance is dazzled in a little humour, a little attitude and a lot of talent as the first few words pour out.

Seeping in to the setlist, fans have rehearsed the songs from King’s impressive debut ‘Love Stuff’ and more recent record ‘Shake Spirit’ in preparation. Lucky for us, her personality stretches far past each interval and you can only hope that it is divided into smaller pieces to take home.

Tracks such as Shame and I Told You I Was Mean become moments to let go whilst America’s Sweetheart is the classic sing-along encore - a last chance to lose your voice. Unfortunately, this is where the show ends however, it is one that will replay over and over as it deems unforgettable.

Words and photos by Alice Hadden