LP at the Forum

The Forum is completely packed, home tonight to American singer-songwriter Laura Pergolizzi, otherwise known as LP. Having written hits for some of today’s biggest artists such as Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, the Backstreet Boys and Cher, the singer arrives in shiny red velveteen blazer, opening the set with Strange, from her third album Lost on You. The chorus creates a harmonious unity amongst the crowd, the feeling that this artist really understands how it feels to be different, not truly fitting in. Playing the harmonica, LP shows she’s an expert on the instruments as she is in her vocal arrangements.

Other People begins with Pergolizzi whistling superbly in tune, a challenging feat to some that she achieves effortlessly. The song is one of heartbreak, and feeling torn up inside; the emotions in the lyrics are truly provocative, reaching into the deep feelings of LP’s listeners. There is melancholy in this piece that is reminiscent of the earlier work of No Doubt’s Gwen Stefani, in hits such as Don’t Speak and 4 in the Morning, the vocals trembling, shaky with emotion.

Sitting down playing to the photographers’ wants, the songstress is a natural onstage. Tightrope is performed with the same earnestness as the previous tracks, while she pulls out a long piece of red ribbon, trailing it across. Her lyrics are simple enough, yet they act as the essential element to the formula of her catchy pop hooks. Anyone listening can relate, whatever their gender, orientation, or ethnicity, which makes her music universal. Up Against Me may not have the same intimacy as the recorded version, yet it still speaks out to all, and is a powerful number in which LP doesn’t shy away from the personal nature of her writing. Death Valley exhibits itself in an indie pop genre, the vocals still maintaining its power in the high-reaching melodies, the voice not deep but with a hoarseness that is not unlike that of Patti Smith. Muddy Waters befits a film soundtrack, dark and booming, with a measured assurance, while Suspicion is a clear crowd pleaser, the singer-songwriter really owning her songs, masterfully controlling her voice, singing high falsettos, operatic style. Rocking show-stopper No Witness, and When We’re High, show LP truly in her element.

A definitive highlight of the set is Lost on You, the perfect mix of sad romance and love ballad. Interjected with Pergolizzi’s bird-like whistles, the song exemplifies how talented the New Yorker is, and how she’s able to make great pop tunes for not only her contemporaries but for herself.

Though there was opportunity for a more interesting set of events on stage, there is undoubtedly a bigger reason for going to a live performance, and that is seeing the musician right there in front of you, which is the feeling LP’s performance procured.

Selina Begum
Photos: Jon Mo

For further information and future events visit the LP website here.

Watch the video for Lost on You here: