Concert Recap: BENEE
Words and Photos by Zuzu Khalil
Photo by Zuzu Khalil
Last Tuesday night at Revel ABQ, Albuquerque was treated to a night of electrifying performances, starting with the immensely talented BENEE, who set the stage ablaze as she opened for Wallows. The New Zealand native, known for her infectious energy and diverse sound, delivered a performance that not only warmed up the crowd but also left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
As soon as BENEE stepped onto the stage, the atmosphere in the venue shifted. Her presence was magnetic, and from the very first note, it was clear that this was going to be a performance to remember. She opened her set with the catchy and upbeat “Kool,” instantly engaging the audience with her unique blend of indie pop and alt-pop vibes. The crowd, already buzzing with anticipation, erupted in cheers, and it didn’t take long for the entire venue to start moving to the beat.
BENEE's voice was nothing short of fascinating—smooth, yet powerful, effortlessly weaving through each song. Her setlist was a perfect mix of fan favorites and newer tracks, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Songs like “Supalonely” and “Green Honda” had the audience singing along, while tracks like “Beach Boy” offered a more introspective moment, drawing the crowd in with their emotional depth.
Photo by Zuzu Khalil
One of the standout moments of the night was her performance of “Wishful Thinking,” where BENEE’s raw emotion and vocal prowess truly shone through. The song’s haunting melody combined with her expressive delivery created a palpable connection between the artist and her audience, proving that she’s more than just a pop sensation—she’s a storyteller.
The stage production was minimalist, allowing BENEE’s vibrant personality and music to take center stage. Her infectious energy was matched by her band, who played with a tightness and precision that only amplified the overall experience. BENEE's playful interactions with the crowd, coupled with her genuine gratitude for their support, made the performance feel intimate.
As her set came to a close, BENEE left the stage to thunderous applause, having successfully primed the audience for the headlining act, Wallows. It was clear that she had made many new fans that night, leaving everyone eagerly awaiting her next visit to Albuquerque.
Overall, BENEE’s performance at Revel ABQ showcased her ability to captivate and energize an audience. Her combination of catchy tunes, stunning vocals, and charismatic stage presence made her the perfect opener for what would be an unforgettable night of music.
Make sure to stream BENEE’s music here and follow her on Instagram to keep up with her upcoming projects!