After taking a four year break Melanie Martinez released new music with a supporting tour. On Sunday that tour stopped through D.C. to the delight of a passionate fan base seeing people line up as early as 5 in the morning. From the outside looking in Melanie Martinez’s new project Portals may seem strange, or obscure. The singer has fully developed a completely new persona reborn from the characters of her earlier work completing what they call the Cry-Baby Trilogy. The creative masterpiece comes to life on stage in the form of incredible set design, visuals, and the complement of amazing back up dancers. Martinez’s story telling ability really comes to life playing her new deluxe album from start to finish, truly immersed in the music the way it was intended to be heard. It’s rare to find live performances these days with as much thought and attention to detail, truly cementing Martinez as a Pop powerhouse and a must see performance. As one that only had limited exposure to the artist I was forced to look deeper, and find meaning to something I didn’t fully understand myself. Check out the full setlist below:
DEATH
VOID
TUNNEL VISION
FAERIE SOIRÉE
LIGHT SHOWER
SPIDER WEB
LEECHES
BATTLE OF THE LARYNX
THE CONTORTIONIST
MOON CYCLE
NYMPHOLOGY
EVIL
WOMB
Encore:
POWDER
PLUTO
MILK OF THE SIREN
Words & Photos by: Jacob Castillo