LOS ANGELES, CA- Hans Christian Andersen once eloquently stated, “Where words fail, music speaks.” For me, it is the music that masterfully combines the power of both melody and the written word that truly resonates. Timeless music that captivates the mind and soul is not only aurally pleasing but has the capacity to touch the very essence of our being.
It requires a uniquely gifted songwriter to harness the power of language, enhancing the music it accompanies. Those blessed with the art of songwriting can infuse a magical depth, meaning, or emotional resonance into the musical notes they complement. In my view, Victoria Canal is an artist who embodies this extraordinary quality. She is surrounded by a circle of creative friends who share this ability, and at the intimate 100-capacity Sun Rose on the Sunset Strip, aficionados of heartfelt, meaningful music were treated to a night of enchantment.
During her brief stay in Los Angeles before returning to the UK, Victoria invited her musical friends to join her in a “Class of 2023 Boarding School” themed concert. The evening was divided into two parts, with Victoria’s friends each performing a song in the first half and Victoria herself taking the stage “after recess.” The talent showcased was nothing short of incredible. Lucy Clearwater, Olivia Barton, Annika Bennett, Jackson Lundy, Rett Madison, Jason Sibi-Okumu, and Mike Viola took turns enthralling the attentive audience with their original work. Even Grammy Award winner Madison Cunningham graced the stage with a performance. While I may not have been familiar with every song presented (except Madison’s “Something To Believe In”), each composition demonstrated genuine humanity and a mastery of the songwriting craft. Ethereal voices, raw lyrics, undeniable melodies, harmonies, and key changes filled the air, creating a warm atmosphere of human connection.
It is often said that great minds think alike… They also create alike. Victoria has surrounded herself with individuals who not only make music but also craft worlds for listeners to explore, imbuing every note and lyric with emotion and authenticity. Introspective, soulful, and honest—these are the words that describe Victoria’s music, a synthesis of sounds and a tapestry of sonic experiences that captivate listeners and draw them into her world of storytelling.
I believe I resonate with Victoria’s music due to its deeply personal nature. Her poignant lyrics touch upon themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, stemming from her own experiences. The honesty in her words transcends my personal circumstances, fostering a profound sense of connection.
This was my third time witnessing Victoria’s live performance, and I must say that my love for her music only grows stronger each time. Her magnetic presence and velvety voice, combined with the raw emotion expressed through her lyrics, make her live performances truly authentic and human.
Her setlist included a mix of previously released material (such as “Pity Season,” “Swan Song,” “Own Me”) and songs from her forthcoming EP (“Hollow,” “Yes Man,” “Shape,” and “Totally Fucking Fine”). The intimate setting allowed Victoria to share the stories and meanings behind her music, further enriching the audience’s experience.
She spoke of a song written as a love letter to her mother and shared her vulnerability in performing “Shape,” a song about her body. She also discussed the inspiration for “Swan Song,” which was based on Ira Byock’s mantra about the four things we say before we die or to someone we love who is about to pass: Thank you. I love you. Forgive me. I forgive you. These personal stories brought us closer to the beautiful music we enjoyed, encouraging us to be present in the moment. The humanity shared was powerful, palpable, and beautiful—an experience I hope to encounter again.
Until the next time, I have her new music to look forward to.
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