To celebrate the release of Halsey’s fourth studio album ‘If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power’, fans were treated to an incredible one night only, global performance experience. Halsey welcomed fans into their theatrical world of love and power, providing a mesmerising visual journey through some of the 13 songs featured on the new album.
The livestream event ran for approximately 45 minutes and was hosted seamlessly by Moment House. Ticket purchasing was simple, with users able to select between three different performance times based on their time zone. The website featured stunning graphics of Halsey, moody music and a countdown that created an air of excitement as the event was close to beginning.
Another wonderful feature was the chat, which allowed Halsey fans to engage before, during, and after the performance. Personally, I chose to watch the livestream in full-screen mode for the ultimate concert experience, however, the chat was constantly flooded with exciting reactions to Halsey’s performance.
The “If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power” livestream featured an 11-song setlist that incorporated multiple stage sets, costumes, and special effects. The production was incredible, effectively adding depth and an electric atmosphere to the powerhouse performances. LED screens, neon strobing and a breath-taking set that looked straight out of a fairy tale were highlights.
You see that? Breath-taking.
The livestream flowed between both whimsical and haunting moments, between dark and light. Through it all it was beautiful and powerful.
The transitions between such different atmospheres were effective in keeping audiences on their toes, unsure as to what world they’d be transported into next. The styling of hair, costume and makeup also added depth to the atmosphere, with Halsey changing between fits that were reminiscent of medieval ages, but also welcoming of lacy bodysuits and lingerie.
Halsey filmed the event while pregnant, though you never would have guessed until the camera panned down to reveal the fact.
Their energy levels were high, particularly evident during the performances of “You asked for this”, “Nightmare” and “honey”, which saw the singer embracing the title of the song and covering themselves in the sweet condiment. Yep, you read that correctly. Halsey was covered in honey and looked gorgeous as ever.
“You should be sad” was stripped back in comparison to the western themed music video, with the singer laying down, dimly lit. Such contrast between the array of performances made the setlist feel even more engaging, much like a regular concert feels.
The singer sounded as strong and smooth ever, with their vocals leaving goose bumps as they performed “Darling” and a haunting reimaging of “Gasoline”. “I am not a woman, I’m a God” was also a standout, with Halsey demanding attention, and power, with ease.
The event felt intimate, with Halsey starring down the barrel of the camera multiple times, making the songs feel personal and the performance feel more inclusive than anticipated.
The trouble with livestreams is the disconnect that can arise, the awareness that you’re often alone and streaming a show from your home. However, Halsey and the incredible team that worked on this production mastered the art of creating high energy, tour quality performances that also felt engaging and intimate, like you were standing on stage with the singer during every moment.
What I believe was most special to see throughout the entirety of the livestream was the confidence and the authenticity radiating from Halsey. Each performance felt like a theatrical rendition of the album tracks fans have grown to love so dearly. It felt like Halsey gave her all to every inch of detail visible throughout the livestream and her physicality and voice during performances was as strong, yet raw, as ever.
In this crazy COVID world, the livestream felt like a snippet into the kind of Halsey tour we will hopefully all attend on the other side of the pandemic. You can guarantee you’ll see me front and centre, eager to see “If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power” brought to life once again.
SETLIST
- The Tradition
- Lilith
- Easier Than Lying
- You Should Be Sad
- Girl is a Gun
- Nightmare
- You Asked For This
- Darling
- Honey
- I am not a Woman, I’m a God
- Gasoline (Reimagined)
If you haven’t already heard “If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power” I highly recommend you give it a listen.
Halsey becomes more authentic with each release, and it truly is one of the standout albums of 2021.
Stream it here.
Lovers of Live 