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Published:
Jun 22, 2016

A few years ago, after an underwhelming SNL performance, I remember reading an article in which someone described Lana Del Rey as a "recording studio artist." This negative label essentially denotes that, while her music sounds good on a record, her live talent is lacking.

Whether you agree with this statement or not, it's apparent that this new age of bedroom producers, autotune, and DIY music has bred a group of artists who fall under this category. So when you see a live performance in which the talent of the musician is consistent with, or even surpasses what you've heard online, it's exciting and even unexpected. Bishop Briggs is one of these artists. 

I first became familiar with Bishop Briggs (Formerly Bishop)'s music upon first hearing her single "River." Impressed by the power of her voice coupled with surprising trap-infused production, I had a feeling she'd be one to watch. She's got the unapologetic vocal prowess of Del Rey with the brooding mystery of Banks- a winning combination. Appearing abruptly from the musical hotbed of Los Angeles, she was immediately launched into prominence with her single "Wild Horses." Having only three tracks, I abused the replay function on her SoundCloud page without shame.

So when I saw the opportunity to see her live, I jumped at the chance. As breathtaking as her voice is on recordings, I tried to curb my expectations in the event of the LDR phenomenon. However, what I witnessed far exceeded my expectations.

She took to the stage with confidence and, without hesitation, dove right into "The Way I Do," an aggressive and passionate track showcasing her vocal range. Immediately after, she performed her breakout single "Wild Horses," opting to get the bigger tracks out of the way early. The majority of the show was dedicated to unreleased music which was more exciting than jamming to the songs I did know the words to.

Backed by her producer and guitarist, the three-piece flowed through the set with enthusiasm and precision. It was well structured, with enough room for introspective swaying throughout the verses and uncontrollable shaking during the breakdowns. The coolest things about their music is that it combines the best aspects of live and electronic music. You get all the excitement of live musicianship with well-placed electronic drops throughout. Whether your thing is singing along or getting down, you can do both at a Bishop Briggs show. 

But let's talk about her voice. Throughout the performance there wasn't a single sour note, falter or sign of vocal fatigue. With the type of energy she put out, I almost expected some sort of burnout. Nope. She performed her last song with the same strength she began with, stunning the audience and proving that she deserved to be on that stage.

In addition to her incredible vocal control, she's got a well-developed and unabashed stage presence. Instead of closing her eyes and belting it out, she stared into the audience with doe-eyed intensity and, get this, genuine enjoyment. Between songs she'd break into a wide smile, unable to hide her excitement. Everything about her performance felt earnest, like she genuinely enjoys what she does.

Apparently she's been performing since she was 4 years old, and even though she's still young, her experience and professionalism shows. There wasn't much audience interaction from the band aside from a brief introduction, an artistic choice with the intent to place focus and emphasis on the music itself. Regardless, the three-piece closed the show with the hit "River," and left the audience writhing with energy. 

Bishop Briggs is a creature of the stage, moving with jagged Lorde-esque dance moves and emotive faces that suit her style and subject matter. Her captivating performance and undeniable talent solidified my fanhood, and I can't wait to see what this next year will bring for her. You can catch her on tour supporting the likes of Coldplay and Passion Pit, and be sure to check out her music here

Image: DragonFruit Diaries

Bishop Briggs - River