Music, News, Review

Zara Larsson @ Manchester Academy review and gallery – an evening of extravaganza with Swedish pop royalty

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Featured image: Gracie Hall


To support her on her run of UK and European shows, Zara Larsson showcases fellow Swedish artist, Yaeger. An eclectic outfit composed of a puffer skirt, black devil horns and fluffy boots works wonders in showing off Yaeger’s style as an artist. With touches of hyper-pop sprinkled throughout, Yaeger shows off her soft and airy vocals with an upbeat set.

Setting the precedent for this wondrously over-the-top pop party is an impressive two-tiered platform, along with four dancers who take the stage ahead of Larsson. The 26-year-old Swede emerges on stage through panels in the middle of the higher of the two tiers, with a vibrant screen behind showcasing impressive visuals. The opening bars to ‘Venus’ play and her set kicks off with a bang.

In a spectacular pink two-piece, Larsson delivers popular songs like ‘I Would Like’, ‘Girls Like’ and fan favourite ‘Never Forget You’ all within the space of the set’s first act. A live debut of latest single ‘Escape’ wows the audience and leaves no question that Zara has some of the best live vocals in pop right now.

After a quick interlude and an outfit change, Larsson is back on stage, in a red outfit this time. She begins to perform an emotional ballad called ‘The Healing’, about the aftermath of a bad relationship and how it impacts her future relationships. With very impressive and upbeat choreography, Zara delves deeper into the second act with ‘Symphony’, on which she features with Clean Bandit. 

‘Ammunition’ is a standout of the show as Zara showcases her live vocals and dancing strength. Her all-female dancers and live band represent the amazing example she sets for her younger audience members. Witnessing an all-female live presence is rare and as such, creates an empowering aura on stage. 

‘You Love Who You Love’ is about “that one friend who just doesn’t seem to listen”, explains Zara, as she launches into the song whilst observing the crowd from the top tier, with yet more impressive choreography and visuals.

Donning a third and final outfit, she launches into a three-song encore with explosive dance track ‘On My Life’, a collaboration with David Guetta. The whole venue jumps and moves to the music, creating a club-like atmosphere. Another favourite amongst the audience, ‘Lush Life’ gets everyone singing along, the 2015 song reminding us all of that summer and the joyous times associated with it. 

She closes the night with latest hit ‘Can’t Tame Her’, a synth disco inspired pop track that has propelled Zara back into the public consciousness and onto people’s playlists. It feels as though she is truly here to stay.

About the author / 

Gracie Hall

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