PVRIS @ o2 Academy, 23rd November, 2017
Alternative electronic American band PVRIS, pronounced ‘Paris,’ took to the O2 Academy playing for their largest crowd to date. Mixing part alternative rock and part atmospheric electronic, PVRIS has crafted a genre splicing sound that is steadily attracting a strong following. With a solid UK tour well underway, the band took to the O2 Academy igniting fans with their smooth and steady sound.
After a double opener PVRIS took to the stage. A time warp intro that gave an almost spooky scary movie vibe, PVRIS sauntered onto stage. Dressed in black they seemed to move in mysterious fashion, floating around the stage. “Heaven,” a melodramatic pop electronic song, opened the set. Immediately fans were struck by the power and depth of lead singer Lynn’s vocals. A resounding smoky voice, it is a mystery how such a sound comes out of such an energetic petite person. Nonetheless “Heaven” proved to be a powerful introduction that excited fans.
Pop tinged “St. Patrick” and electronic indie “Smoke” continued to excite fans, each song bringing a slew of outrageous dance outbreaks and clapping. The electronic alternative mashup of each song offered a friendly almost radio commercial feel that entices fans of all bases and from all genres, the perfect elixir that draws people to PVRIS. That type of sound was on full display as fan favourite “Half” and breezy “Holy” came through. “You and I” was followed by “Same Soul;” the stripped down emotional song gave a needed rest from the electronic flair and as the first song written for the recent album “Same Soul” offers a moment of reflective contemplation amidst the dancing and animation.
The lull did not last for long, PVRIS launched into “What’s Wrong,” an upbeat rock heavy tune. With “Winter” and “Separate” power vocals paired with alternative pop style. The night rounded out with “Separate,” “Anyone Else,” and “My House,” with PVRIS returning to play “No Mercy” during the encore.
PVRIS played a commanding show, proving that they were more than capable to fully entertain their largest crowd to date. The mixture of sonic moments and fan focused energy created an atmosphere that was engaging and entertaining, leaving a lasting impression and leaving us wanting more.
Reviewer: Kylie McCormick
Photographer: Andy Watson