Her’s, a Liverpool-based indie duo featuring Stephen Fitzpatrick and Audun Laading, gave an electrifying performance at Songbyrd Music House on March 7, their first tour stop in the U.S. Local dream pop band Del Florida and bedroom pop artist Spencer opened for the band, in what was a spectacular night of music.
Roughly 200 eager fans filled The Byrd Cage, the venue’s basement level live music space. Its low ceilings, fairy lights and purple and pink atmospheric glow gave the scene a more intimate feel amidst the large crowd.
Del Florida kicked off the night with songs like “Ain’t Gonna Change” and “Dream’n Again,” led by powerful yet tender vocals from their lead singer, Leela Dawson. Spencer immediately followed, performing a selection of moody bedroom pop hits, including “Want U Back” and “To Be You.” At long last, Her’s took command of the stage and captured the audience’s attention, beginning their mesmerizing performance with “Marcel.”
On March 28, the unfortunate news broke that both Fitzpatrick and Laading died in a car accident with their tour manager on the way to a show in California. This tragedy is gut-wrenching, devastating and has transformed the depth that this piece ought to hold. My hope is for this concert review to immortalize and celebrate the art that Her’s shared with the world. If nothing else, take some time and listen to “Don’t Think It Over.”
With Fitzpatrick on electric guitar, Laading on bass, and a laptop with loaded drum patterns between them, Her’s played a myriad of indie masterpieces, from their first single “Dorothy” to their most popular track “Cool with You,” to upbeat numbers like “Low Beam” and “Love on the Line” from their most recent album “Invitation to Her’s.”
The duo exhibited undeniable chemistry and their friendship transcended the passion they have for their craft. Fitzpatrick and Laading were incredibly charming and charismatic, interacting with the crowd and bringing listeners into their world. They provided glimpses into their lives by sharing the backstories of certain tracks.
Her’s delivered an unforgettable performance; Laading’s energy and stellar dance moves coupled with Fitzpatrick’s unreal vocal range came together to create a perfect night in Adams Morgan, one I won’t forget any time soon.
