Concert Review: Marian Hill Are Iconic At Brooklyn Steel
Marian Hill took Brooklyn Steel in a storm of R&B futurism. As the crowd sang their songs like they were serenading their crush or musically breaking off with an ex, I kept on reliving the 90’s R&B days; when loving and leaving your “boo” was the heart to every beat that could make you leave earth.
Celebrating their new album release, Unusual, the duo were pumped to sing delicious new tracks like, “Differently”, “Listening”, “Subtle Thing”, and “Wish You Would”. Every track felt like smooth liquor, and got you drunk on lyrics that promoted being confident even when your love is acting up. Yet, that confidence stems, primarily, from Samantha Gongol’s presence. I have never seen someone create a strut to get her water bottle and take a sip. While some artists only turn on their energy during a song, Gongol become a star whose shine cannot turn off, at all.
Marian Hill – Differently
When I complimented her, after the show, on how precise her movements and vocality were on stage, she said, “My uncle, whose an actor, told me to do everything with conviction.” That is the keyword: conviction. Not a single song, motion, or vocal riff was done without a dreamed intention or feeling of purpose. The way she raised her hand like a Queen asking her subjects/ rhythms to rise was “ICONIC”; another word that a fellow crowd member decided to yell as she performed. While I, often, discuss accessibility as a key/ endearing quality of an artist, at times, “untouchability” works, as well: i.e. Madonna or Beyoncé. Seeing them perform feels like you are watching who you wish to be, and Gongol carries a fierceness we could all use.
Marian Hill – Wish You Would (Audio)
Marian Hill is a concert for those who want to dance with their “girls” or friends, and “act” like they have an ex that broke their heart. From “All Night Long” to “Go Quietly”, their rhythms were so heavy in baseline my soul quivered as much as the amps. You had to shake as saxophones and Jeremy Lloyd’s synths coupled to create a soundscape ready for Gongol’s sweet vocals. For More Information On Marian Hill Click Here.
Marian Hill – Subtle Thing (Audio)
