Review: Lykke Li

Lykke Li

Just as the Vic Theater's sold-out crowd was beginning to become anxious about Lykke Li's arrival, smoke and blinding strobe lights began to illuminate the dark and deserted stage. Coming out of the smoke was Lykke Li and her band, including multiple percussionists. Lykke Li played 3 or 4 songs before greeting the audience in her trademark solemn yet endearing tone.

When it comes to artists like Lykke Li, who are defined by their unique vocals, it comes into question whether or not that sound will translate well live, or if it just sounds good on the record. In Lykke Li's case, her recognizable vocal talents came through wonderfully live, save for a few moments that seemed a bit too quiet, though those moments were few and far between.

Also interesting was her choice to join the percussionists by playing a large floor tom and crash cymbal. Not only was this uncharacteristic of most singers similar to Lykke, but it noticeably filled out a few songs that had percussion heavy moments, in which case the more drummers present, the better.

These moments proved most interesting as Lykke Li was able to contrast her trademark light flowing aura (aided by long black sheets cascading down from the ceiling) with a wild, sometimes rambunctious, almost drum-circle-esque moments (aided by strobe lights and smoke).

Along with 2 surprise cover songs, Lykke Li bounced through sure-fire crowd-pleasers such as "I Follow Rivers", "Love out of Lust", "Rich Kid Blues", and "Little Bit". The experience of a Lykke Li show proved, like her voice to be both unique and lasting.

Photos by Ellie Pritts Photography