Live Review: Washington, Lovesongs

Children Collide’s Johnny Mackay has been writing songs about his exes under the moniker Lovesongs. He plays a short set as we wonder how many exes he has and whether it’s a wise enterprise to write odes of adoration to one’s former partners. Its an intimate set of heartfelt tunes that has Mackay gently strumming while accompanied by a keyboard player. It’s a chill start to the evening for the gathering crowd, who have practically sold out the place out.

Touring to support her latest single, Dirty Churches, it feels like ages since Washington treated fans to a live show. Taking selections from her two albums and recent singles, Washington delivers an evening of crowd-pleasing songs that has her somewhat excitable fans woo-hooing in delight. 

Washington gets the evening started with the breezy pop of Claws. Her songbook deals in love songs and bittersweet, sometimes inevitable heartbreak. She delights fans with How To Tame Lions, Saint Lo and Skyline in very quick succession. There’s a ton of equipment on stage, lots of guitar pedals, synths and even a Moog Taurus that gives us dreamy deep bass. It’s all Washington’s band need to deliver a tight and polished mix that avoids any hint of lo-fi scuzz.

Washington. Photos by Renee Coster.

A solo portion, including Sunday Best offers a moment for fans to chill before the pace picks up again with Cement. Sporting swirling synth sounds and big hooks, Dirty Churches feels like a turning point for Washington, who is able to make the most delectable pop confection out of the conflicted emotions that arise from a toxic relationship.

It’s an entirely appropriate way to end the show and fans clamour for an encore. Slipping on some white feathers, Washington deals a pristine version of I Believe You Liar. It's one of the few songs on tonight’s setlist that showcases the full beauty of Washington’s voice – to brilliant effect. Rich Kids rounds the night off on an upbeat note and Washington’s fans leave looking very satisfied.

Washington. Photos by Renee Coster.