Review and photos by Ana Chen
Last Sunday night at The Belasco Theater in Los Angeles, HONNE transformed the evening into a beautiful celebration of love, connection, and reflection. From the first note to the final encore, the English duo of Andy Clutterbuck and James Hatcher reminded us why their music resonates so deeply.
The night begins with a warm and heartfelt opening set from rising singer-songwriter Liang Lawrence. With just her guitar and soulful voice, Liang captivates the room. Her music — a thoughtful blend of indie, folk, and alt-pop — feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Tracks like ‘Kiss My Apocalypse’ and ‘If Only’ showcase her gift for raw, poignant lyricism.
Between songs, Liang shares glimpses of her life and the stories behind her lyrics, creating a sense of intimacy rarely seen in larger venues. It feels as though she is speaking directly to each member of the audience, inviting us to find pieces of ourselves in her words. Her music is a gentle reminder of life’s transitions and the beauty found in vulnerability. What makes Liang truly unforgettable is her ability to connect. Whether it is through her expressive vocals, or the way she involves the audience in the creative process behind her songs, she brings a rare authenticity to the stage.
As the lights dim for HONNE’s arrival, anticipation buzzes through the venue. The duo’s playful mascot, Poco, sweeps onto stage with a comical flourish before retreating, setting the tone for the vibrant set to come. A second, massive and inflatable version of Poco — measuring at least 10 feet tall — watches on, wide-eyed, from the back of the stage.
The moment Andy and James step under the lights, the crowd erupts, swaying and dancing to HONNE’s signature blend of electronic grooves and soulful melodies. Highlights of the night include fan favorites like ‘Day 1’, ‘Me & You’, and ‘Warm On A Cold Night’. Each track evokes a sense of intimacy and joy, filling the room with love as couples embrace and friends dance shoulder to shoulder. The crowd’s synergy is electric. Longtime fans sing along passionately, knowing every lyric and beat. As the chorus of ‘Warm On A Cold Night’ rings out in an a cappella wave, I find myself swept up in the collective energy. HONNE’s music doesn’t just make you move; it makes you feel. Their songs are invitations to close your eyes, hold hands, and savour life’s tender moments. They remind us of love’s many forms.
Hearing HONNE live felt like rediscovering old memories — flashes of relationships, family moments — all wrapped in the warmth of their sound. As I left The Belasco that night, I felt a renewed appreciation for the power of music to connect us — to our pasts, to each other, and to ourselves.
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