Singer-songwriter ZZ Ward delivered a passionate set to a sold-out Fine Line on Friday night. Ward’s tour in promotion of her forthcoming album, The Storm, stopped through Minneapolis on June 2nd, which also happened to be her 31st birthday.
The crowd was buzzing with excitement well before Ward took the stage; drinks were flowing, people were dancing, and it was evident that we were in for a fun night. Indie-folk singer, Cat Clyde, opened the show with just herself and a guitar. The simplistic setup showcased her raw talent and extensive vocal range. Her debut LP, Ivory Castanets, featuring single “Mama Said” was released on May 4 and can be found here.
Ward, backed by a three-piece band, jumped straight in to their set with a brand new song “Ghost,” followed by her 2012 single, “Put the Gun Down.” The Pennsylvania native has a surprisingly dedicated fan base and had people of all ages singing along to every word. Ward stated that she continues to be “blown away” by the support she has every time she comes through Minneapolis.
The bluesy vocalist performed her new song “Ride” featuring Gary Clark Jr. that will be featured in the upcoming Disney Pixar movie, Cars 3. Despite being recorded for a soundtrack, the upbeat tune still remains true to Ward’s twangy, folksy sound and evoked a strong response from the already enthusiastic audience.
Ward displayed her versatility as a musician with hip-hop derived songs like “The Deep,” featuring Joey Purp, slower, moody ballads such as “Lil Darlin,” and playful tracks like “LOVE 3X.” All in all, Ward’s powerhouse vocals and carefree energy left everyone with an unforgettable experience.
ZZ Ward’s Headline tour runs through September, and she will return to Minneapolis supporting Kaleo on October 6th. Find your tickets for that show here, and check out her most recent music videos for “Help Me Mama” and “The Deep.”
Setlist:
Ghost
Put the Gun Down
Til the Casket Drops
Ride
The Deep
LOVE 3X
If You Stayed
Charlie Ain’t Home
Cannonball
If I Could Be Her
Lil’ Darlin
Marry Well
Move Like U Stole It
Blue Eyes Blind
Help Me Mama
365 Days
