by DJ Liza (Dreamsort Radio)
A Hallowed Eve, as the ticket stub reads, would be the best way to explain the chilly November Friday spent waiting for the southern gothic dream-pop/slowcore artist Ethel Cain. On Hollywood Boulevard, lines of young camped-out fans curve around the block dressed in gothic lace to rugged denim, embodying the bleak Americana aesthetic found in Cain’s debut album: Preacher’s Daughter. Though the wait to get through the line was a bit grueling, admittedly because I’m a little spoiled by local shows, we managed to get to the barricade fairly easily.
From the beginning to the end of the show, Cain’s ethereal, assertive presence captivated the scope of the entire audience. “God loves you, but not enough to save you,” echoes Anhedonia’s voice through the silent hall. “So baby girl, good luck taking care of yourself,” she sings during the final song of her encore- Sun Bleached Flies, holding a teary-eyed fan from the crowd close to her chest. Out of many talented artists I’ve had the great pleasure of seeing this year, Cain’s performance remains the most touching experience to close out 2022.
9/10
