On the evening of April 9th at The Echo, Madds Buckley and Addison Grace led a vibrant lineup that also featured Isabel Pless. It was an empowering evening for anyone who has felt marginalized for being different. Isabel Pless captivated the audience with her emotionally charged performances, Addison Grace electrified the crowd with his dynamic energy, and Madds Buckley showcased her musical prowess alongside a refreshing sense of humor.

Isabel Pless opened the show, demonstrating her songwriting talents with carefully chosen lyrics. Though she remained mostly stationary on stage, her passion was palpable, especially when performing "Little Life." Her expressions and vocal delivery filled the room, conveying frustration yet whimsy with lines like “when you realize you're just some guy and this is such a little life.” She shared personal stories, including how therapy improved her life, adding depth to her performance. Another standout moment was her rendition of "Bechdel Test," a relatable anthem for navigating life's complexities, highlighted by vivid lyrics such as “But there's a game of Operation in my skull.” In addition to her musical talents, Pless also showcased her hat-making skills, selling unique creations post-performance. Her future in music seems promising.

Addison Grace made a memorable entrance, reminiscent of a cinematic scene. Having been intrigued by his song "White Lies," I was eager to see him perform live. His execution of "White Lies" during the set was impeccable, with perfectly timed movements and expressive gestures enhancing the lyrics. A touching moment occurred when he dedicated a song to a couple in the audience, spreading joy and connection. His performance of "Slime!" was particularly electrifying, with the audience actively participating. Grace's ability to convey a range of emotions through his expressions and movements added layers to his performance, especially when his smiles radiated genuine warmth. His fearless engagement with the audience, including humorous anecdotes about a song inspired by his roommate titled "Makes Me Sick," showcased his charisma and stage presence.

Addison's set was more than just a musical event; it was a celebration of individuality, resilience, and shared human experiences. The artists, through their distinct styles and messages, created a space where everyone felt valued. Their courage and authenticity resonated with the audience, offering support to the LGBTQ+ community and highlighting universal themes like the appreciation of anime. With each act bringing something unique to the stage, the lineup was cohesive yet diverse, ensuring a memorable experience for all who attended.

To conclude the night, Madds Buckley took the stage, her name illuminating the backdrop and setting the tone for her segment. Her setlist was a compelling mix that included "Love After You," "Ambrosia Wine," "Dogbird," "I Wanna Be in Love Again," "Driver's Seat," "Reach," "Little Big Boy," "Brother," "Wine and Wheat," "The Red Means I Love You," and the crowd-chosen "Hating Halloween."  Madds shared how her passion for anime, notably My Hero Academia, has significantly influenced her music. Fans of the anime could likely deduce the character inspiration behind "The Red Means I Love You" just from the lyrics alone. Her onstage movements during this song, reminiscent of the character's gestures, added a playful layer to her performance. "Driver's Seat" stood out as an emotionally charged piece, with Madds's powerful delivery and on-stage dynamism painting a vivid picture of longing and unfinished stories, leaving the audience to imagine their conclusions.

"I Wanna Be in Love Again" resonated deeply, encapsulated by Madds's emotive smile as she sang about second chances and the bitterness of past experiences. It's a relatable anthem, especially potent for young listeners navigating love and loss. Madds's lively sense of humor and striped outfit echoed the vibrancy of her performance, ensuring the night was not only about music but about creating memorable moments.  Her song "Dogbird" was particularly haunting, lingering in the minds of the audience long after the performance ended.

Missing this concert meant missing an extraordinary collective experience. It was a night that affirmed everyone's worth and shared the universal experiences of love, loss, and belonging. The artists, through their music, offered empowerment to the LGBTQ+ community and celebrated the universal appeal of anime, showcasing their bravery and authenticity. The diverse yet cohesive lineup ensured that while there were common threads, each performance stood out, making it an unforgettable evening for all who were there.