AZEALIA BANKS PERFORMING AT LIVERPOOL O2 ACADEMY

★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)

AZEALIA BANKS PERFORMING AT LIVERPOOL O2 ACADEMY
PHOTOCREDIT: SABRINA RAMDOYAL

In the world of live performances, the balance between anticipation and disappointment seems to be a rather delicate topic. When it came to American rapper and songwriter Azealia Banks, who arrived 45 minutes late, tested the patience of an enthusiastic Liverpudlian crowd, whose faces reflected a mix of not only excitement, but of frustration. This delay, seemingly a recurring theme on the current UK tour, added a layer of tension to the atmosphere that only heightened the eventual eruption of enthusiasm when the lights dimmed.

At that moment, all grievances faded as Banks emerged, greeted by a cacophony of screams and the glow of countless mobile phone cameras capturing every moment. The phenomenon of watching a live performance through a screen is not lost on today's concertgoers, and this night was of no exception. Yet, even amidst this modern spectacle, the crowd was united by their shard love and appreciation of of the firecracker.

Anthems tracks that defined her career, like "F*ck Him All Night", "Desperado", and "New Bottega," each one met with increasingly fervent applause. The infectious crescendo of "Big Big Beat" reverberated through the venue, leading to the climactic moment when "212" hit the speakers. Despite the sparse stage setup, featuring just a DJ and a bare curtain as its backdrop, the performance relied heavily on her uniquely lyrical flow. The brevity of the set, just under an hour, was a minor hurdle overshadowed by the joy of experiencing her discography.

Ultimately, Banks' performance reflected her unapologetic aesthetic. The way she commanded the stage and engaged with her audience mirrored the themes of empowerment and authenticity that permeate her music. In the end, the late arrival became a mere footnote in a night defined by passion, energy, and the celebration of individuality that Banks effortlessly embodies.