Girlfriend Material, Lauran Hibberd’s album tour hits Southampton

In support of her second album, Girlfriend Material, Lauran Hibberd is touring the UK and Europe through September and October, having completed a nine date North American leg in May and June. We caught the show in Southampton, UK, just across the water from her home on the Isle of Wight.

The stage is decorated with floral backdrop, grass carpet, flower pots, and mic stands wrapped with rose garlands (later covered with the transgender pride flag, offered from within the crowd), which all add to the welcoming and fun vibe characteristic of Lauran herself.

The fifteen song set is full of high energy and witty song writing, creating a nostalgic slacker pop sound, with pure entertainment from Lauran and her bassist Jess Baker, who work so well together on stage. Its a treat to catch the show in an intimate venue, the iconic Joiners. Songs from the new album, opening with the title track and others including her moving lyrics of “I Suck at Grieving” and the funny “Mary”, alongside past favourites including “How am I Still Alive?” and “Honda Civic”. The set has a ‘mystery track’ towards the end, which delighted everyone in the room with a superb version of Chappell Roan‘s “Hot To Go”, increasing the heat in the room somewhat. The final song is “2nd Prettiest Girl (in the World)”, full of Lauran‘s characteristic humour. A superbly engaging and joyful live show.

First support is Ugly Ozo, a relatively new band delivering a superb set of indie-infused shoegaze. The band consist of Lauran‘s bassist, Jess Baker, with her younger sister Elizabeth Baker. A captivating performance.

The second support act, from Toronto, is Housewife, with lead singer Brighid Fry delivering a superb set. A new band to the majority of the crowd, but that didn’t stop many singing along to “Fuck Around Phase” by the end of the song, with new fans definitely made.