Live Review: Sky Ferreira, Eves - Metro Theatre

Not looking too far above the all-ages limit herself, Hannah Karydas took to the stage as Eves, confident and self-assured. Eves songs rely heavily on drums in the live setting, with muscular beats propelling songs forward, but mixed over are punchy, swelling synths and Karydas’ voice spilling over the top.

Later on her bandmates revealed oversized matching necklaces. It was that kind of show. A little absurd, with endearing dancing and flashes of real brilliance, but a feeling that maybe Eves might not belong here yet. But they’re really close, as closer Electrical, with 80s synths pulsing through the start into big, beautifully pop-cheesy choruses, revealed.

Sky Ferreira came onstage to a rush of 1000 phones in the audience. Opening with 24 hours, third cut from Night Time, My Time, the set started sweet and with some of her best lyrics. 

Live, there was a tightness and focus from her band, and it’s easy to see why they’ve become her regulars. But on some songs, especially early in the set, the band seemed so below Ferreira in the mix that any energy or intensity in the performance turned syrupy and blunt; not jagged like the grunge/shoegaze riffs and pummeled drums might suggest.

The mix got better as the show progressed though, starting with the choruses, which are undoubtedly Ferreira’s strong suit. I Blame Myself was well received. It’s a taut, pure pop song that translates nicely live. You’re Not the One had Ferreira channeling her best Cyndi Lauper, fearless and unafraid, and nailing her vocals. It was worth the admission alone.

Ferreira is best when she is confident, going all out like the pop singer she is with an assured band pushing behind her. Some parts of the short set suffered in contrast, more rehearsed than real. That made her great pop songs and killer performances all the more enjoyable, because they were that classic, unbeatable mix: bold and vulnerable.