The Forum Melbourne was alive with excitement on Saturday night as fans gathered to witness the celebrated New York City band, Lawrence, perform during their 'The Family Business' Australian tour. Known for their infectious blend of pop, soul, and funk!
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Jaron’s set got off to a bit of a frustrating for the poor guy, with the venue having some technical difficulties (poor Jaron being left with no vocals or guitar coming out the front of house for a good 10 minutes or so) but Jaron and his incredibly talented band handled the situation with grace and humor, quickly winning over the crowd with an instrumental version of the Girl from Ipanema being led by the extraordinary Ashley Hutton leading the way on the saxophone.
Jaron’s rich vocals and the band’s unique fusion of funk, soul, and indie elements showcased his artistry and resilience. They even threw in a version of the Prince classic ‘I Wanna Be Your Lover’ for good measure. By the end of his set, Jaron had completely captivated the audience, earning raucous applause and cheers for more. This guy has a big future ahead of him, that is for sure!
When Lawrence took the stage, the energy in the Forum was pumping. Fronted by siblings Clyde and Gracie Lawrence, the band’s chemistry and charisma were immediately on display. Their tight harmonies, dynamic stage presence, and infectious enthusiasm made for a show that felt both polished and deeply personal.
The setlist was a well-crafted journey through Lawrence’s diverse catalog. Fan favorites like “Do You Wanna Do Nothing With Me?” and “Don’t Lose Sight” had the crowd singing along at the top of their lungs. Newer material from their latest album, Hotel TV, was equally well-received, showcasing the band’s evolving sound while staying true to their roots. Each song was brought to life by the band’s exceptional musicianship, with Clyde’s keyboard skills and Gracie’s powerhouse vocals shining throughout the night. The horn section added an extra layer of vibrancy too. It was a good night to be a fan of brass instruments!
The Forum Melbourne, with its stunning architecture and stellar acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for the show, with the venue’s ornate décor and intimate ambiance complementing the band’s soulful sound, creating an immersive experience for all in attendance. I’m not sure there’s a better looking venue, and once those initial tech issues were resolved, the sound was simply extraordinary.
Lawrence’s show at the Forum was a masterclass in live performance, blending exceptional musicianship, heartfelt connection, and unbridled joy. The addition of our very own Jaron Jay as the support act added a local flavor and an inspiring story of talent and determination, and together, they created an experience that truly celebrated the power of what great LIVE music can do to bring a crowd of people together, lift their spirits, and leaving me with the wonderful gift of not being able to get their darn tunes out of my head all week!
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