Thao Captivates boston at Paradise rock Club, 3.26.22
BY OLIVIA LEON
Photo By: Olivia Leon
Thao Nguyen graced Paradise Rock Club with her presence this Saturday in Boston, Massachusetts. Accompanied by openers Why Bonnie and Becca Mancari, the artist put on a show equal parts comforting and energizing as the crowd quickly filled with fans new and old. Only having been a fan for a week, but a major fan at that, I was in awe of the stage presence the artists had. Completely and utterly embodying the music she creates, Nguyen left no fan disappointed, captivating every single one.
The crowd screamed for the artists’ entrance, as the band came out one by one, sequins adorning their outfits to add the finishing touch of star power. Starting off the set strong with “Departure” and “Phenom,” Nguyen's energy vibrated across the venue. Alternating between electric guitar, banjo, and mandolin, she created a set as diverse as her vocals from start to finish. The set included a mix of old and new songs, showcasing the band’s musical prowess in its entirety. From the drums that punctuated every dip in the song to a violin solo to a cover of “Bad Girls” by M.I.A. this set had it all. Fan favorite “Temple” had everyone screaming and dancing before Nguyen had even sung a word.
As the show came to an end, couples stood arm in arm, swaying to the sounds of “Marrow,” a song the artist noted was written right before marrying her wife. A quick glance around the venue was enough to tell that this was the moment the past hour truly set in. This lulled trance, however, was quickly brought to an end by a headbanging rejoice as Nguyen's guitar picked up. The band played until the end with fans staying for every last second, and with the final strum, not one looked away. It was clear Thao Nguyen laid her passion for her music and everything behind it on stage that night. I never wanted those venue lights to turn on.
