Words and Photos by Katherine Cardinale
Maude Latour and her opener MARIS brought The Sugar Water Tour to Brooklyn Steel earlier this week, and it was a glittery, cosmic, and out-of-this-world evening for all who attended. Fans decked out in eye-catching, metallic, and neon garb flooded into the venue as soon as doors opened, and joined those who partook in the VIP experience earlier that day. After jamming to preshow playlist songs by artists like Lana Del Rey, the lights dimmed and MARIS’s intro began to play.
After just her opening song, which was “GOING YET!,” it was already clear that MARIS was going to be a hit with the whole audience. She had infectious high energy paired with impeccable vocals, and her songs are perfect for dancing. MARIS is an indie pop artist based in Los Angeles, and her unique, pop-infused sound is catchy, fresh, and fun. One of the highlights was when MARIS played her latest single, “Give Me A Sign,” which was released just this past month. In short, the song is about pining as a queer person, and you can read our full review of the song here! Another special moment during MARIS’s set was when she spoke about her insecurities and vulnerability as an artist before launching into an emotional performance of her ballad “Chameleon.” She ended her time on stage with “Salt Water Taffy,” an anthem about summertime and growing up.
I took the opportunity between the sets to chat with MARIS and buy some of her merch. She was as bubbly and sweet as she was just moments before on stage, and I admire her kind personality and authenticity as an artist. I can also confidently say she is one of the best opening acts I’ve seen in a while. Although I only discovered her music recently, I am excited for all of her future musical endeavors.
Maude Latour was on next, and the energy in the room leading up to her big entrance was palpable. The opening notes of “Officially Mine,” which is the first track on Maude’s debut album, Sugar Water, began playing, and Maude burst on stage in a blue “SUGAR WATER” jersey, metallic pink and silver shorts, and white boot-like shoes. This was Maude’s largest headline show to date, as well as her hometown show, and the packed room of devoted fans created a wonderful homecoming experience for her. Maude played the entirety of Sugar Water, including the singles “Too Slow” and “Comedown,” but also included fan favorites like “Walk Backwards” and “Lola.” Throughout the evening, Maude talked about friendship, her experience touring, and what it was like living in New York, and how each of those things impacted her songwriting for the debut album. One of the evening’s highlights was when she encouraged people to bond with those around them, even if they were complete strangers, during the beginning of “Save Me.” The night also featured bright, colorful visuals, multiple costume changes, and crowd interactions. After closing the night out (or so we thought!) with “Bloom,” Maude returned to the stage and played an encore, which was “001” followed by “Cursed Romantics.”
Both Maude Latour and MARIS put on high-energy, captivating sets, and they are touring together through April 2nd – be sure to buy your tickets before they’re gone!
Loudspeaker Collective 