Words by Abbie Rose
Photos by Cuffe and Taylor
Scarborough Open Air Theatre played host to one of the biggest names in rock music. Alanis Morissette who has dominated the alt-rock scene since her 1995 debut ‘Jagged Little Pill’ put on a show to remember in the sold-out arena with a greatest-hits setlist adorned with political messaging and breath-taking musicianship.
The show was opened by British Indie rock band The Big Moon. Their tracks consisted of chill riffs and refreshing tones, with members switching between guitars and synths between songs. Within their set was a cover of Fatboy Slim’s ‘Praise You’, which translated really well into their style as it slowly built, before concluding in a shoegaze finale. The band also announced their upcoming UK ‘Forever’ tour which is taking place this November.
Before Alanis Morissette took to the stage, a short video played on the big screen which featured key moments of Alanis’ career, including clips from her world tours, the activism she had partaken in, and the influence she has had to support women in rock music. The video montage then transitioned into ‘Hand in My Pocket’ through Alanis’ backstage harmonica solo, the crowd and the atmosphere became electric as her set began.
Alanis and her band performed ‘Reasons I Drink’, a vulnerable song about addictions and the emotional triggers behind them. This was accompanied by some powerful imagery on the screens, which showcased the effects of eating disorders and substance abuse, as well as a collection of facts highlighting that ‘women experience higher rates of depression, anxiety and PTSD’. The concert visuals also gave exposure to LGBTQ+ groups and Black Lives Matter, which are groups that Alanis has frequently supported.
There was little room for rest as the band powered through the 24-song setlist. However, about halfway through the set, Alanis and her band took to the side of the stage for a few acoustic numbers. This section was more mellow and it allowed Alanis to showcase just how powerful her vocals are as the climactic chorus for ‘Mary Jane’ echoed around the theatre.
After the acoustic section, the set shifted back into gear with a multitude of fan favourites such as: ‘All I Really Want’, ‘You Oughta Know’ and ‘Uninvited’. Alanis interacted with the crowd during ‘Ironic’, encouraging her fans to sing her lyrics, before bringing the night to a heartfelt close with ‘Thank U’.
After a career spanning three decades and showing no signs of slowing down, Alanis Morissette was here to remind us of the power and messaging her songs.
musicforthemisfits.com 