Paris Paloma Brings Catharsis in The Chapel

We’ve been so inspired by the presence of Paris Paloma as she graced San Francisco’s famed venue tucked in the coziest part of the city, called ever so perfectly so, The Chapel. June 12th was the first night of her first-ever United States tour, which instantly sold out.

For those who are new or do not recognize Paloma, you may know her by her viral hit, “labour,” which has garnered over a hundred million streams on Spotify alone since its release last year. But what we’ve learned from her since has been someone of an ethereal nature. Paris’s poetic lyricism channels cathartic music for all who listen, particularly those who long to find peace again in their own femininity. Since the release of her hit, she’s unleashed a series of powerfully beautiful singles leading up to her upcoming debut album, Cacophany, which will be out at the end of August this year.

As far as the performance itself goes, the night welcomed special guests The Army, The Navy; who we feel deserve a mention purely due to their effortlessly lilting vocals and beautiful storytelling lyrics. The sold-out crowd was just about the sweetest as could be. Not only was the amount of breathing room to dance along to the music just perfect, we felt as if we fit right in with the community and found fast friends. Everyone was supportive, kind-hearted, and endearing. And may we mention, impeccably dressed.

Paris Paloma joined the stage to the intro of “my mind (now),” picked up her guitar, and began to play. A hush filled the crowd. Some sang along in perfect harmony. From that moment forward, the atmosphere shifted, as we began our ascent in a soiree not of this realm.

We felt particularly swayed by “drywall,” and as was Paris. She commented about how she shed a couple of tears after the last chord played out before replying to herself with a soft laugh and beginning “boys, bugs & men.”

Another particular standout was “notre dame.” Not only did we feel ourselves floating on the rafters, a little like the song mentioned… especially because the bare-bones of the former church-now-venue were laid bare, and as were we.

Paris let each song speak for their own. Not many words were said throughout the night other than a comment about a “pep rally,” and telling the crowd that she wanted to make sure she asked if that was a real thing after she’d watched “A Cinderella Story” on the plane ride to this city. “In the U.K. we just have morale without needing to do it [the pep rally],” she said plainly, and chuckled. “Yeah, it’s going to be like that.”

We were particularly privileged to hear a preview of a few tracks from the upcoming album. We particularly enjoyed “the warmth,” but we’ll leave our thoughts there.

Take a look at Helana talking about the atmosphere and the performance as a whole on our Twitch. Stay tuned for more updates on Paris Paloma, and be sure to pre-save her debut album, out on August 30th!