Indie-pop artist Hannah Bahng had New York audiences feeling blue — literally. Decked out in head-to-toe shades from cobalt to indigo, the crowd embodied their fanbase’s moniker, BLUES.
“The Misunderstood Tour,” in support of the eponymous The Misunderstood EP, stopped by NYC’s Irving Plaza on the eve of Halloween, bringing out fans of all ages. If they weren’t in blue or adorned in ZYMMIE motifs (Hannah’s self-made mascot), they were in full costume.
Last time Hannah performed in NYC, she was performing at Mercury Lounge, an intimate club venue nestled behind an East Village bar. This show at Irving Plaza is a huge step up in size, and from the hum of energy across the venue, it’s obvious that fans are excited.
Energy Levels
Hannah, a young artist herself, draws a young crowd. For many, it seemed like it was their first concert, chaperoned by parents toting armfuls of tour merch.
Despite a younger and perhaps less experienced crowd, there wasn’t much of a sense of hesitancy. Fans eagerly chatted amongst themselves, trading friendship bracelets and TikToks. During the show, they danced and sang along. At times, it felt more like a party than perhaps a concert with the costumes, the blue dress code, the dancing, and the music. It wasn’t just fans watching their fave artist perform, but embodying the energy and genuinely having fun together.
Standout Performances
tonight’s the night i die to a frank ocean song – Based on the raucous cheers that the “tonight’s the night i die to a frank ocean song” introduction inspired, one wouldn’t guess the moody, melancholy tune that would follow. Up on a glittering disco tiled platform and bathed in appropriately blue light, Hannah crooned through the song with the full choral backing of the audience. A lower-energy song compared to some others in the set, it still inspired considerable participation from the crowd.
Vertigo – Starting with Hannah displaying her talents on the keys, “Vertigo” began as an unassuming yet upbeat piano track. But about two-thirds of the way through, the plucky keys abruptly ended, swelling into a dramatic finish that included a wailing electric guitar. While the build-up is satisfying to listen to on the album, something about witnessing it live — with the words sung along by dedicated fans — makes the payoff even richer.
Ribs – Another quieter song, the performance of “Ribs” was stripped down to the bare essentials: Hannah, a microphone, and an acoustic guitar. While the majority of Hannah’s set stuck to the usual indie-pop trappings of sweet, breathy vocals, and synth beats, “Ribs” was a haunting, mature interlude that hit like a shock of ice through one’s veins. Audiences were rapt in their silence as Hannah softly sang lyrics like “I can feel my ribs crack / Every time I breathe / And if I pluck the bones out / Will the air leave,” only adding to the effect.
High Notes
At one point mid-show, Hannah called out her friend Sarah Roh to assist her in selecting the night’s “perfect blue,” a lucky fan who would join Hannah on stage for a brief performance. This time, it was fitting to the fan’s and Hannah’s matching Pokémon costumes that they danced to the Pokémon Theme Song.
It may seem like a silly intermission to some, but it stands out as emblematic of Hannah’s entire persona. She’s friendly, building a strong sense of camaraderie with audiences, and just plain fun.
For Fans Of
Blue.
It’s a color that evokes a lot of different things: the vastness of a clear sky, the comfort of a worn denim jacket, a cheeky pop of blue raspberry bubble gum, churning dark rivers, and delicate blooms of larkspur.
All of which Hannah was able to elicit in her performance. Whether it’s fun and bubbly or soft and sorrowful, whichever shade you prefer, you’ll be able to find your favorite in this set.
Verdict
Hannah Bahng is an energetic presence in the indie-pop scene, injecting color and personality where it’s most needed. Clearly adored by her fans, one can expect to see more of her in the future.
Hannah Bahng’s tour continues throughout November and December. For more updates, check out her Instagram and YouTube.
For more recaps, check out our review of the lo-fi artist spill tab in Brooklyn.
