1. This appeared to be a sold-out show. The line outside the House of Blues snaked and zigzagged all around the casino floor. A security guard offering drink bands to concertgoers 21 and over confirmed that the venue was close to capacity. It’s heartening to hear, especially because this is only Clairo’s second headlining tour. I first saw the singer-songwriter at this exact venue back in October 2019, when she was a 21-year-old bedroom pop star on the rise. I had no idea that’d be my last concert for the next year and a half. But it’s nice to see the fanbase remains strong.
2. Clairo is serious about safety. Ahead of her tour, the artist announced plans to shore up security at her shows and collaborate with Safe Tour and Calling All Crows to mitigate any harassment in the audience. “If I can’t provide this [security] on tour, then I won’t tour," Clairo told NME last year. Considering her core fan base consists of teens and adults in their early 20s, this comes off as incredibly considerate. At the bar, I even spotted flyers that directed those feeling uncomfortable or unsafe to call or text a number for "trauma-informed help on site."
3. Arlo Parks couldn't have been a better opener. The London singer and poet appeared so fluid and free on stage, you would've thought she was performing in her own living room. Judging from her body language alone, it was clear Parks listens to her own music and thoroughly enjoys the vibe she creates. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it, too. A group of girls at the front of the stage swooned and cheered every time Parks bent down to sing with them. One even handed her a rose, which she gripped gingerly as she breezed through the unrequited love story of "Eugene." She probably deserves a bigger venue than House of Blues. Her personality and smile could fill an arena.
4. Clairo leveled out the buzz of her opening act with the waltzing track “Bambi.” It was clear we were looking at Sling-era Clairo, the 23-year-old backed by a six-person band playing everything from acoustic guitars to wind instruments. The singer accompanied herself on guitar during the jammy “Zinnias,” showering the crowd in woozy, ’70s-inspired folk rock. Saxophonists and flute players hopped in on later tracks as Clairo indulged her penchant for jazz, a sonic departure from the indie pop of her debut, Immunity. But just as the crowd grew restless, Clairo grabbed her electric guitar and launched into “North,” a rocking favorite from the earlier LP. The singer-songwriter did a careful dance all night, switching between the two albums for a variety that was appreciated by old fans and new.
5. Clairo and Arlo make a great team. Midway through the show, Clairo invited Parks on stage for a duet of her single “Blouse.” It was a delightfully harmonious moment, both artists smiling in clear appreciation of each other’s talents. It’s nice to see acts like this not only working together, but creating something new for fans to remember.
