Rowena wise - live at the howler

Within artistry, whether it be painting, poetry, the use of language, or music, people often speak about the reflection of an artist. the glimpse we get into their heart, mind, and soul through their work.

Rowena Wise @thatgalro took the stage at Howler, backed by her very talented band and beautiful projected visuals by @marinate.av resembling ink swirling through water. It struck me that, while this was still a glimpse into what makes up an artist’s artistry, Rowena’s performance felt more like a window into the story her life has written so far.

This was a show that reminded me of the magic that comes from collaboration in artistry. From Rowena bringing a friend on stage for an acoustic rendition of one of her songs (Alex Cameron from @wellintowinter ) to the synchronicity she shared with her band, which definitely extended to the audience, there was something special about the way it all came together.

Having listened to her newest album, Bad Things Feel Good, in the weeks leading up to the show, I felt a connection to the honesty and rawness of the lyrics. The songs on this unreal new record are relatable, heartbreaking, somber, but also uplifting and undeniably groovy. Speaking to a few friends at the show, the consensus was unanimous: “She fucking rocks.”

Personally, I think it speaks volumes when an artist can write a body of work spanning ten songs that feels so ever-changing. The new music from the album somehow feels like an old favourite, or like a familiar feeling you can’t quite put your finger on.

The way a song can catch you in a particular moment and make you feel entirely different things depending on how, when, and why you’re listening to it is something that will always fascinate me as an artist and an appreciator of a clusterfuck of genres and music. This album is full of those moments. Songs that make you check how much time is left, only to double back and listen again for a particular lyric or riff woven into the track.

The way this translates to a live setting is unbelievable to me. Rowena’s introspective storytelling is supported so beautifully by her band, who leave just enough space for her thoughtfully written songs to truly flourish. Some songs maintain a perfect balance between brooding and calm, allowing Rowena’s vocals to shine through, while others like "Diamond in the rough" and "blood ties" build to a crescendo that is always welcome as a listener in a packed room.

Between songs, Rowena spoke about the inspirations behind the music and where these songs began in her own story. It was so nice to feel the heart behind these songs and being able to experience the end result of such meaningful moments in her life was truly a joy. going to see your favourite artists is always a pleasure, and i think that's what it's all about.

Listen to the album, and go see her play. she fucking rocks.