Perfume Genius Returns to Seattle with Glory
It’s hard to believe that we haven’t seen Perfume Genius perform at his own headlining show all these years, but the time was here. From that first time in 2015 we saw him perform at Sasquatch! (RIP), we knew there was something extraordinary about him. Michael Hadreas was back in his hometown for a special show at the Showbox Market supporting his seventh album, Glory. With every release Hadreas has seen more success and more praise, thanks to his raw and emotional music.
Perfume Genius and his three-piece band took the stage a little after nine to a full venue. Hadreas slowly walked onto the stage and stood at the back of the stage which was raised. He started with “In a Row,” at the top moving along with the music as the lights flashed along to match. Then he stepped down to the floor for “It’s a Mirror,” moving around the stage. Hadreas stopped to chat with the fans after thanking them for being there. “I don’t know if you know this but I’m from Seattle. I grew up coming to this venue where I’ve seen so many amazing artists perform. Now I’m lucky enough to play here myself.”
Perfume Genius returned to the top of the stage for “No Front Teeth,” sitting on a chair as the mini circle it was on rotated around. The way he moves around so naturally and carelessly is absolutely mesmerizing to watch. Hadreas becomes one with his art and he easily captivates with his abundant charisma. Sometimes he gets carried away from the beat and he beautifully flitches his body as if he is being controlled by the sound.
As the night continued, we heard favorites, “On the Floor,” “Wreath,” “Describe,” and “Otherside.” It feels like there is never enough time to enjoy his shows. People only want more, and I can’t blame their addiction to Hadreas. It doesn’t even seem like he’s trying to do anything, it just happens organically. Perhaps that is the whole appeal to his talent, that he was born to do this. The main set ended with “My Body,” as Hadreas finished on a high note crowd surfing. He was so into it he got back to the stage and was surprised that it was their last song as they left.
The band returned for an encore playing a cover of Mazzy Star‘s classic, “Fade Into You.” Somehow Hadreas made it his own and it was one of my favorite moments of the night. For a person who actually remembers the release and frenzy of the tune back in the 90s it’s hard to be impressed with someone else singing it but he absolutely nailed it. The night ended with their huge hit, “Queen,” as people danced around and sang one last time. If Perfume Genius is performing nearby do yourself a favor and go to the show. This is an artist that is so captivating, you forget to blink sometimes.
