Singer Mallrat, also known as Grace Shaw, performed at the popular club and concert venue DC9 on Sept. 26, allowing D.C. residents to experience firsthand a live performance of songs off her new hit EP “Driving Music.”
Australian band Japanese Wallpaper opened for Mallrat. The two-person band’s soft rock sound created a relaxed environment and allowed for a smooth transition between the opener and the main act.
Shaw, who is also Australian-born, opened with her eccentric hit “When I Get My Braces Off,” written for her 16-year-old sister. Although “Driving Music” dropped only weeks ago, Shaw captivated her audience from the start and had them singing along to every word.
This musician brings a classic pop sound to her music but allows for it to go below the surface by effortlessly implementing positive and heartfelt lyrics into song.
Shaw radiated positivity the moment she stepped on stage, wearing a silk green and yellow dress and covered head to toe in sparkles. As she performed, the energy in the room changed completely. Everything outside of the DC9 nightclub disappeared, and all eyes and minds were transfixed on Shaw.
Her ability to effortlessly transition from slow, emotional songs, such as her hit “Charlie,” to more pop-sounding songs, such as “Circles,” allowed concertgoers to access Shaw’s inner monologue, one that expresses hope in the future and humanity.
Shaw’s emotional journey through song was met by voracious cheers and applause following every last line.
At only 21, Shaw speaks as though she has lived a full lifetime. Her voice is wise beyond her years, and yet she has the energy of a young, carefree child while she performs.
Shaw finished her set with her most popular hit to date, “Groceries.” The lights panned to the audience as she encouraged those in attendance to dance with her. In “Groceries,” Shaw vocalizes wanting someone without being too forward. She sang, “I’ll go if you go if you’re cool with that, I half hope that you know.”
As audience members lost themselves in Shaw’s lyrics, they found a piece of themselves in her music and walked out of DC9 feeling heard through song.
