Sometimes as an artist, it can be easy to let flashing lights, fantastic sets and grand production carry you through your set. However, Blondshell is not one of those artists. All she needs is herself and her band - though the lighting choices were excellent.  

The energy she brought into Mr. Smalls in Pittsburgh last week was enough to keep someone completely entertained through the whole show. She used the full stage to her advantage and spent several songs utilizing the floor. As soon as the show started, one of the guitarists had an Aphex Twin shirt on, so I knew the performance was about to be outstanding. 

Their guitarist and entire band did not disappoint, exceeding all expectations. Blondshell knew exactly when to push a song beyond its original recording; however, she was on pitch an incredible amount of time. I could feel the rage and anger within her music and what she was trying to say came across. It felt like I read between the lines and was able to understand her without direct messaging being shared. She had a lot to say, and I feel like she said it, whether directly or indirectly. She talked of addiction and abuse, which can be quite heavy topics to carry on tour; however, she did it well. It was like she channeled her energy and what she is carrying into performance each and every night. With many songs from her 2025 album, If You Asked Me For A Picture, and some oldies but goodies like “Olympus”, there was a mix of something for everyone. But the overarching theme of the process of acceptance and the anger a woman can bear. It is very hard to produce the kind of energy she wields and to see it in person is undeniably ecstatic.