A sweltering summer evening found Mesa Amphitheatre buzzing with anticipation as fans packed in for Clairo’s Charm Tour. Opening the night was Alice Phoebe Lou, who brought a dreamy, ethereal vibe to the stage, setting the perfect tone for what would unfold. Her stripped back arrangements and raw, emotive vocals created an intimate atmosphere, making it clear why she was the perfect support for this leg of the tour.
But the night truly belonged to Clairo. As the crowd filled every inch of space, the lights dimmed and the band took the stage. In a refreshing move that felt more like a cozy jam session than a stadium spectacle, Clairo and her bandmates sat in a close-knit circle at the front of the stage, sharing a carafe of drinks. This relaxed setup was a fitting tribute to her new release Charm, a project that delves deeper into the unpolished, introspective sound that has come to define her evolution as an artist.
The set began with a few tracks from this new album, drawing the crowd in with lush melodies and confessional lyrics that spoke of vulnerability and growth. Fans swayed along, savoring every note despite the stifling heat. Clairo paused, addressing the crowd, “I know it’s hot, but I want you guys to dance to this one!” A few brave souls took her up on it, twirling and moving in the front rows. But the mood shifted when she suddenly stopped mid-song, calling for medics for a fan in distress. The moment was handled with grace, her calm demeanor never wavering.
The band’s chemistry was undeniable, and the sense of camaraderie was infectious. With a mix of tracks from Charm and fan favorites like “Bags” and “Juna”, Clairo effortlessly balanced the newer, more introspective pieces with the hits that propelled her into the indie-pop limelight. Throughout, her voice remained a soothing balm, and even in the more high-energy moments, there was a steadiness to her presence that spoke volumes.
Charm is a nuanced, layered exploration of Clairo’s growth as both a person and an artist. It’s clear she’s been influenced by more experimental, soulful sounds, pulling inspiration from artists like Mitski and Solange while maintaining her signature bedroom-pop vibe. Live, these tracks took on a new life, with her band adding depth and texture that made the whole experience feel immersive and alive.
Clairo’s Charm Tour is more than just a concert—it’s an invitation to step into her world, to witness the raw, unguarded parts of herself she’s chosen to share. With each stop, she’s proving that charm isn’t about perfection; it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Don’t hesitate to see this tour- it’s a experience not to be missed.
