‘The Demi Lovato Experience’ Was Well Worth Having: Live Review
Demi Lovato performed an intimate concert at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles last night (October 28) as part of a special 2vLive concert stream. Billed as The Demi Lovato Experience, fans — both inside the venue and online — were treated to a tight 13 song set that put the emphasis on the 21-year-old’s powerful pipes and warm stage presence.
Wearing a long t-shirt and tailored jacket, Demi looked like the rock chick next door with her bright blue hair and beaming smile. The X Factor judge welcomed the assembled Lovatics before launching into “Heart Attack”. That double platinum top 10 smash is still an adrenalin-charged hit of fizzy pop perfection and the talented diva made every note count — showing off the full extent of her vocal range.
The underrated “Made In The USA” came next but the bare-bones show (there was no production to speak of — just Demi, her band and some lights) really hit its stride when the Camp Rock queen took it back to her first album. She grabbed a guitar and rocked out to “Get Back” and “Don’t Forget”. Seeing Demi in rock mode makes you wonder if her recent move towards dance music was wise. It looks more natural for her and she’s really good at it.
After a brief trip down memory lane, it was time to focus on her new material. “Two Pieces” sounded raw and convincing with a live band, while “Fire Starter” was an obvious fan favorite. Next up was “Without The Love”, which remains unbearably cheesy, and “Really Don’t Care” — a collaboration with Cher Lloyd that sounded much better without Cher Lloyd .
It was then time for Demi to dial back the energy and belt out some of her signature ballads. While not a standout on the LP, it was impossible to not be touched by “Nightingale” after the clearly choked-up diva dedicated it to her recently deceased dad. That was followed by an incredible cover of Rihanna‘s “Stay” and a pitch perfect rendition of “Skyscraper”. The budding author spoke about her battle with self-harm, bulimia and mental illness before launching into the track.
The show closed with new single “Neon Lights” (still a curious choice) and an impeccable rendition of power ballad “Give Your Heart A Break”. With more material like that, there would be no stopping the songstress. The Demi Lovato Experience was short but very sweet. I can’t wait to see the full tour.
The Demi Lovato Experience — Setlist
Heart Attack Made In The USA Get Back Don’t Forget Two Pieces Fire Starter Without The Love Really Don’t Care Nightingale Stay Skyscraper Neon Lights Give Your Heart A Break
