Opening for Clairo was Erthlings, a Sydney band consisting of four 16 year old high school students. Don’t let their age fool you – their music speaks for itself and highlights talent that is beginning to be recognised. Being signed on after releasing one single, the band has already supported G Flip on a series of shows in late 2018, and was now invited to support Clairo during her Laneway sideshow. Moody, hazy guitar and bass, overlaid on sweeping drum beats. Add lead vocalist Issy’s chirpy and soothing voice, and you’ve got a recipe for success. Playing their main single Bridges and finishing their set on latest single Cuts and Bruises, the set was mesmerising to say the least – one could say almost out of this world. We haven’t seen the last of Erthlings.
It was now time for Clairo to take to the stage; performing to a sold-out audience, as well as it being her first ever performance to an Australian audience. Booked as a sideshow to her Laneway appearance, the room was electric and the anticipation built as the 20-year old lo-fi, electro-pop artist from Carlisle, Massachusetts took to the stage. Claire Cottrill and band launched straight into the popular tunes from Clairo’s debut EP diary 001 – tracks B.O.M.D and Hello? winning over the crowd instantly and getting the party started. For an artist yet to release an album, the success of Clairo’s EP and live stage performance cannot be understated, with her being booked for shows across the globe and at some of the biggest festivals around.
Enduring the heat, and the heckling of more than one starstruck lover in the crowd, Clairo danced and sang through all of her latest singles including Get With U, unreleased track Bags, and crowd-favourite Flaming Hot Cheetos. With temperatures soaring in the venue, the punters were kind enough to crowd-surf some snacks (Cheetos to be specific) straight to Claire and the band for nourishment. Finishing the set on Better, the crowd chanted for their return, and of course, were successful in their attempt to woo the band back to their place on stage. Performing Pretty Girl and 4EVER to close the night, Howler punters were left satisfied, and yet still wanting more.
We look forward to Clairo’s performances across Australia during the Laneway Festival and hope for her return soon to Melbourne.