I had no idea what to expect when I agreed to photograph the soul-pop band, Lawrence. Sure, I did my research and obsessively listened to them on Spotify for days before the show, so I knew that this band had some serious talent and has produced solid recordings. However, when I arrived at Rockwood on Friday night, I walked into a sold out show and the tiny venue was packed. Luckily, I managed to secure a spot right in front of the keyboard and horn section eager to jam to the music of this local band who sold out Rockwood.
Lawrence
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When Lawrence hit the stage, the audience simultaneously commenced to shake their groove things to the opening song, Wash Away, off of their new album, Breakfast. Hailing from New York City, Lawrence is a sibling duo featuring Clyde (keys and vocals) and Gracie Lawrence (vocals), backed by their ever-impressive eight-piece band, with an explosive horn section, funkified bass, and guitar artists and a drummer who drives it all the way home.
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Lawrence mostly played songs off of their new album, Breakfast, and each one was keyboard-driven, energetic and featured the mind-blowing vocal arrangements of Clyde and Gracie. The highlights of the evening featured covers of well-known songs including, Destiny’s Child – Say My Name, The Jackson 5’s – I Want You Back, Sean Paul’s – Get Busy as well as individual solos sprinkled across the set. Gracie, when she wasn’t busy impressing the audience with her wide vocal range, danced rhythmically to the music while playing her tambourine. The horn section moved in synchronized dance and smiled incessantly through the entire performance. Clyde was having way too much fun as he repeatedly hammered out keyboard licks perfectly punctuating each of their songs.
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Lawrence’s energy was infectious and it lasted through their entire set. When they finished their last song and left the stage, it was no surprise that the audience chanted, “one more song.” Responding quickly to the audience’s demands, Lawrence returned and finished the evening with their song, “Me & You.”
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Lawrence just returned home from a back-to-back tour with Blues Traveler and is celebrating the release of their debut album, Breakfast. Keep an eye out for this dynamic band as they tour the east and west coasts this summer and for their appearances at several music festivals.
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Lawrence
Article: Jenna Petrone
