Australian singer-songwriter Ziggy Alberts graced the stage of Irving Plaza this past Friday for an intimate performance, marking a memorable night for fans of soulful folk and indie pop. The evening began with a heartfelt set by opener Garrett Kato, setting the stage for Alberts’ headlining show.
Ziggy Alberts, born Zac Higgins on September 6, 1990, in Australia, is a renowned singer-songwriter known for his distinctive blend of folk, acoustic, and indie pop music. Raised in the costal town of Victoria, Alberts’ upbringing near the ocean profoundly influences his music, inspiring his laid-back yet emotionally resonant sound. His early experiences in the surf culture and natural surroundings played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic sensibilities whereas his music offers a sense of serenity to listeners that transports them to a carefree state-of-mind.
Ziggy Alberts’ journey into music began in his teenage years, driven by a deep passion for songwriting and performance. Initially, he played local gigs and shared his music through social media platforms, gradually building a following with his authentic and introspective lyrics. His self-released debut EP, “Gone,” in 2014 marked the beginning of his rise in the music scene. The EP’s success helped him gain traction and credibility, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Albert’s breakthrough came with his debut album, “Land & Sea,” released in 2015. The album was well-received for its heartfelt lyrics and acoustic charm, featuring standout tracks like “Days in the Sun” and “Gone.” The success of “Land & Sea” established Alberts as a fresh voice in the folk and acoustic genres, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
His subsequent album, “Laps Around The Sun,” released in 2018, further solidified his reputation. The album showcased his growth as an artist, blending folk elements with more polished production and exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and environmental consciousness. Tracks such as the opener “Love Me Now” and the titular song “Laps Around The Sun” highlighted his ability to craft deeply personal and relatable music.
In 2021, Alberts released “Searching for Freedom,” an album that continued to demonstrate his evolving sound and lyrical depth. The album’s themes of personal growth and freedom resonated with fans and critics alike, cementing his status as a significant artist in the contemporary folk and indie scenes.
Ziggy Alberts is known not only for his music but also for his commitment to environmental issues and sustainability. He often incorporates themes of nature and conservation into his work and engages in various initiatives to promote environmental awareness.
Ziggy Alberts’ journey from a small-town musician to an internationally recognized artist is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for music. His unique sound, combined with his commitment to meaningful themes and environmental advocacy, ensures that his impact on the music world will continue to be felt for years to come.
The atmosphere at Irving Plaza on September 13 was ethereal as Ziggy Alberts took the stage for a night of soulful folk and indie pop. With Canadian singer-songwriter Garrett Kato opening, the evening promised a blend of heartfelt melodies and engaging performances, and it delivered on all fronts.
Garrett Kato, the evening’s opener, set the tone with a set that tugged at the heartstrings of the audience and captivated them from the first strum of his acoustic guitar. Kato’s performance was marked by his intimate acoustic style and poignant lyrics. His set featured a selection of tracks from his recent album, including the standout “It Gets Better” and “I’ll Be Around.” Kato’s soothing vocals and reflective storytelling drew the audience in, creating a warm and contemplative atmosphere. His genuine connection with the crowd was evident, as he shared personal anecdotes and insights between songs. Kato’s acoustic prowess and heartfelt delivery established a perfect prelude to the headlining performance of the night; Ziggy Alberts.
As the lights dimmed for Ziggy Alberts, the ambiance in Irving Plaza shifted to anticipation. Alberts emerged barefoot, with a relaxed yet commanding presence, immediately engaging the audience with his blend of folk, acoustic, and indie pop as well as his infectious personality and smile. The night kicked off with the serene “Days In The Sun,” a track that showcased Albert’s signature ability to blend infectious rhythms with emotionally charged lyrics as a one man act.
The setlist included a mix of fan favorites and new material from his latest album, “Made of Water.” Songs like “Runaway” and “Simple Things” resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting Alberts’ growth as an artist while staying true to his roots. His distinctive voice, which effortlessly transitions from smooth and melodic to gritty and powerful, was the centerpiece of the evening.
One of the standout moments of the concert was the acoustic rendition of “Gone.” Stripped of its usual production, the song was delivered with raw emotion, showcasing Alberts’ ability to convey deep feeling through minimalist arrangements. The intimate performance allowed the audience to experience the song’s sentimental lyrics in their purest form.
Throughout the concert, Alberts’ interaction with the crowd, ranging from adults on dates to children with their parents, was both engaging and sincere. He frequently shared personal stories and expressed gratitude for the support, creating a sense of shared experience despite the venue’s size. His performance of “Outlaw” and “Laps Around The Sun” had the entire crowd singing along, underscoring the deep connection between Alberts and his fans.
The encore, featuring one of his most recent singles, “New Love,” as well as one of his first tracks, “Laps Around The Sun,” was a fitting conclusion to a memorable night and made the concert feel like a full circle moment. The song’s uplifting messages and dynamic energies left the audience on a high note, reaffirming Alberts’ status as a compelling live performer.
Ziggy Alberts’ performance at Irving Plaza was a testament to his artistry and charisma. I had the pleasure of witnessing Alberts perform a few months prior at Levitate Music Festival and while his festival performance was surely a standout of the three-day extravaganza, hearing his voice echo off the walls of an intimate venue such as Irving Plaza enhanced his music in a way that made it feel even more accessible and personal. I was left in awe at the blissful beauty of his voice and the choir that sang back gave me goosebumps from the start to the end of the setlist. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Ziggy Alberts remains a powerful and influential presence in contemporary music, and this performance was a shining example of his exceptional talent.
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