Live Review: Ariana and the Rose at El Cid

Ariana and the Rose put her stamp on LA with her high energy performance at El Cid, marking her third performance of the Lonely Hearts Club tour. Coasting the stage in her sparkly pink outfit the orange lights and the ecstatic crowd welcomed her to a night of storytelling and captivating music. Ariana started the night off with her song “Lonely Hearts Club” which drew the audience in with its ’80s inspired beats and the accompaniment of her two backup dancers sashaying with her to center stage. The second song performed was “Cosmic Lover.” As the heavy bass echoed throughout the venue, the galactic techno backtrack brought a sultry touch to the performance when Ariana sang the chorus. Bringing out a chair for the third song, Ariana had the crowd swaying to her performance of “You Were Never My Boyfriend.” The power Ariana wields, was conveyed through the strong eye contact held with members of the audience, connecting the crowd to her music and creating a safe space for them to dance and cheer. 

For her fourth song, “Setting Me Free,” Ariana taught the audience a few lines which gave them the chance to speak an empowering affirmation with her. Following this Ariana shared with the audience tales of the long term relationship she got out of during the pandemic while sitting at the keyboard playing notes, moving the story along and bringing a great transition to the next song performed, “Did I Tell You.” Taking more time to connect with the audience Ariana asked a brave soul to share their worst date story. She continued with her song “Fuck Boy” with disco like beats. As one of the backup dancers sat in the chair Ariana went into their arms, leaning into them on the downbeat. The two had a pattern of moving towards each other while gazing into each other’s eyes and breaking eye contact with sharp turns away from one another. While their movements were incredibly pronounced, the two made them look seamless. 

Getting into the music, Ariana took off her ruffled veil and threw it to the right side of the stage. She commanded attention, captivating the audience’s attention. This runway-like strut led way to the seventh song she performed called” London Boys.” “Girl Who Comes Next” followed with its emotional ballad-like lyrics which she belted with strength and accuracy. Running low on time Ariana teased a song, leaving the audience demanding her to perform it. While she didn’t sing the song, she gave the audience a taste by singing its chorus. Her last song of the night was “Every Body” which had the crowd dressed in stunning outfits with glitter, netting, and platform heels. 

Setlist 

1. Lonely Hearts Club
2. Cosmic Lover
3. You Were Never My Boyfriend 
4. Setting Me Free 
5. Did I Tell You 
6. Fuck Boy 
7. London Boy 
8. Call it Closure
9. Girl Who Comes Next 
10. True Love 
11. Every Body