Photo by Flor Franceschetti
The excitement surrounding FKA Twigs’ concert was palpable across Miami long before the doors opened. Fans busily prepared for what promised to be a vibrant communal celebration, embodying the spirit of creativity and self-expression that Twigs’ music champions. Numerous attendees flocked to vintage shops to fashion the perfect outfits, solidifying their connection to the experience before setting foot inside the venue.
Twigs, the British musician and recent Grammy winner for her album Eusexua (Best Dance/Electronic Album), officially commenced her highly-anticipated Body High tour at Factory Town, marking her return to the U.S. after a lengthy hiatus. This concert also marked her first Miami show since 2014, amplifying the excitement among her loyal fanbase.
Upon arrival at Factory Town a few minutes post 8 p.m., the enchanting voice of opening act Eartheater could be heard beckoning the crowd inside. Lines snaked around the venue, filled with eager fans ready to immerse themselves in Twigs’ captivating world. The atmosphere was charged with the promise of an unforgettable performance.
As the clock struck 9 p.m., anticipation reached a fever pitch. The lights dimmed, and Twigs emerged on stage, clad in a simple yet striking ensemble of a white tank top and shorts. As the soft melody of “Mirrored Heart” filled the air, an immediate connection formed between Twigs and the audience, highlighting not only her musical prowess but also her ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through the power of vulnerability.
The staging was meticulously curated, featuring elaborate scaffolding, dance poles, and a massive screen that served as a backdrop to the performance. A live band played unobtrusively atop one scaffold, adding a human touch to what was an already emotionally charged atmosphere.
Twigs’ dancers were integral to the performance, transcending the role of mere background support. They transformed into surreal figures, embodying various personas and enhancing the narrative depth of each song. The choreography, a blend of intricate movements and emotive gestures, elevated the entire experience, shifting seamlessly between playful, stunning visuals and darker, haunting imagery.
Visually, the show was nothing short of a masterpiece. High-energy backgrounds morphed alongside Twigs’ music, creating a vibrant tapestry of color and texture. Occasional projections of live recordings immersed the audience further into the experience, echoing the avant-garde aesthetic that has defined her work. At one point, a daring segment made the crowd gasp as Twigs acted as though she were slashing at a dancer with a sword, the screen erupting in a graphic splash of projected imagery to match.
Midway through the two-hour set, Twigs took a moment to express genuine gratitude for her Miami audience, describing the occasion as “truly something special.” She acknowledged her team, calling them superheroes, and emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for all fans to thrive.
A poignant moment unfolded as Twigs noticed a fan in distress. Without hesitation, she paused the performance, ensuring the individual received help and water. This act of kindness deepened the bond between Twigs and her audience, reaffirming her commitment to nurturing a welcoming environment.
Twigs’ wardrobe changes throughout the evening were another highlight, reflecting her artistic evolution and meticulous attention to detail. Each costume shift contributed a new layer of story to the performance, from elaborate get-ups to minimal fabrics.
High-energy tracks like “Eusexua” and “Room of Fools” transformed Factory Town into a high-octane rave, showcasing Twigs’ exceptional vocal talent intertwined with techno beats. The music balanced influences from contemporary artists while drawing inspiration from the golden days of electronic sound, leading listeners on a journey through her diverse catalog.
As the evening drew to a close, the show stripped back its opulence for a more intimate finale. Twigs, now dressed in comfortable clothing, captivated the audience with an acoustic rendition before concluding with the poignant “Cellophane” and the live debut of “Lonely But Exciting Road.”
Overall, FKA Twigs’ opening night in Miami was a vibrant exploration of artistry, pulling from multiple facets of her talent to create an unforgettable experience that resonated with every attendee. From her dance prowess to her innovative musicality, Twigs solidly proved her position at the forefront of contemporary performance art.
FKA Twigs at Factory Town — Set List
- “Mirrored Heart”
- “Meta Angel”
- “Blue Bird”
- “Figure 8”
- “Drums of Death”
- “Cheap Hotel”
- “Sum Bout U”
- “HARD”
- “Lights On”
- “Honda”
- “Papi Bones”
- “Video Girl”
- “Tears in the Club”
- “Sushi”
- “Eusexua”
- “Perfectly”
- “Love Crimes”
- “Room of Fools”
- “Techno Ballet”
- “Sticky”
- “Stereo Boy”
- “Nature’s Daughter”
- “Water Me”
- “Home With You”
- “Fallen Alien”
- “Mary Magdalene”
- “Thousand Eyes”
- “Two Weeks”
- “Striptease”
- “Cellophane”
- “Lonely But Exciting Road”
