Alt-pop superstar Nessa Barrett stopped by Boston's Roadrunner for an unforgettable performance as part of her Aftercare World Tour. Only five years after releasing her debut single in 2020, Barrett has two entrancing studio albums under her belt and millions of adoring fans. Earlier this month, Barrett released AFTERCARE DELUXE, an extended version of her November sophomore album with six more evocative songs. New York Fashion Week may have ended earlier this month, but fans were dressed for the show as if they were about to walk the runway. A line full of fishnet tights, sequined cheetah shorts, tiaras, and black dresses extended all the way down the block and around the corner on Life Street.

At 8:00 pm sharp, opening act Ari Abdul conquered the stage. She strutted out in baggy jeans, a jersey, and mountainous platform boots and dove into the catchy track "Girls On The Internet." The driving bass line complimented her mystifying vocals, infusing energy into the venue. Fans emphatically sang along to every word, jumping around just as Abdul and her rockstar guitarist Constance Antoinette did on stage. The barricade came prepared for Abdul, screaming "you're a queen" and holding up posters that played on her lyrics. The singer constantly interacted with the crowd, dipping down to walk along the barricade during multiple songs in her set. She shared that it was her first time doing a tour like this and thanked Barrett for bringing her on the road. Adbul closed her set with a "thank you [to the] sexy people of Massachusetts" and performance of her viral song "BABYDOLL" before escaping backstage.

The lights finally dimmed again and the audience broke out into thunderous cheers. Crunchy synths shook the room, and strobe lights silhouetted Barrett and her band as they strutted on stage. The singer wore a metallic silver bandeau top, black pumps, capri jeans, and a statement Cheap Monday belt. She jumpstarted the night with the electric song "S.L.U.T." to an attentive crowd. Her elegant arm movements and sensual choreography mesmerized the audience, who watched in awe as she tossed her hair around.

About midway through the set, Barrett played dreamy pop anthem and standout track from the deluxe album, "LOVE LOOKS PRETTY ON YOU." The swinging acoustic melody complimented her soft vocals. The hushed serenade was a testament to her ability to captivate audiences during more intimate moments. Barrett paused to speak to the crowd, checking in and asking everyone to look out for each other, expressing her genuine love for her fans. The song's themes of healing and connection clearly resonated with the crowd, who sang along passionately like it was the first song of the night.

The singer held the energy high throughout the night, making sure she took the time to interact with each section of the venue. The penultimate song, "PINS AND NEEDLES," displayed how Barrett's knack for songwriting and symbolism translates magically in a live performance. Bouncy synths that sound like the sensation of pins and needles reverberated through the room as Barrett sang about the numb feeling of no longer recognizing someone you once loved. She closed the show with the interlude-esque title track, leaving a final message for the audience through her music. The lyrics "promise me that you'll be there" served as a pact between her and her loyal fans as she floated off stage for the final time.

Barrett's 90-minute set flew by. Her ethereal and effortless stage presence created a memorable night for every fan. Her setlist spanned viral hits and deep cuts from her projects, making sure to play something for everyone. Her sparkling dance movements and striking visuals masterfully displayed the power of watching live music. Make sure to catch Barrett live before the Aftercare World Tour ends in June. Buy tickets here.