“On my way up to the stage someone asked me to wipe my lipstick off. I said no. I could’ve said no to them all day.” With that, Michael Hydraes launched into the emotional gut punch set of the weekend.

I’ve been talking about Perfume Genius for a few years now, and it seems like last year’s Too Bright finally brought the music to a wider audience. That one got its fair share of play, with set-closer “Queen” sending the crowd into a frenzy. I got to hear all the songs I really wanted to hear, including my favorite Perfume Genius song “Hood.”

The energy was pretty similar to the set I saw at Lincoln Hall back in October. Mike carries himself with a certain attitude that somehow exudes confidence and vulnerability at the same time. It makes for a very good chemistry between the performer and audience that few can attain.

If you haven’t heard Perfume Genius yet (WHATS WRONG WITH YOU???), please take some time to listen. It’s a beautiful sound; one of my favorites. I listen to a LOT of music, and there’s nothing like this.

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