Canadian indie rock music artist Leith Ross is currently on tour promoting their second studio album, “I Can See the Future.” Coming from the suburbs of Ottawa, Ross took on a sold-out show at the El Rey Theatre on Nov. 18.
They performed well-known hits such as “We’ll Never Have Sex,” “(You) On My Arm” and “I’d Have to Think About It,” along with songs from their latest project.
Shortly into performing, Ross exited the stage to welcome representatives from Water Drop Los Angeles, a grassroots non-profit organization founded by USC students that brings water and resources to Skid Row.
Founded in 2020, Water Drop LA brings over 3,000 gallons of water every Sunday to Skid Row and has been distributing resources like clothing for 268 weeks. Based in the Indigenous practice of water-hauling and mutual aid, Water Drop LA spoke about the tragedies unhoused residents in Skid Row face and encouraged audience members to give back to the community. Water Drop LA is not the only cause being acknowledged on this tour. Ross is making it a mission to spotlight an organization local to the night’s show location at every concert.
The relationship between artistry and community is near and dear to Ross’s heart, ingraining community outreach into their musical performance. Ross is setting a precedent for artists to employ their platform for social accountability and uplifting the local neighborhoods.
Noa Jamir was the first opener of the night, performing smooth pieces reflecting on relationships and nostalgia. Hailing from Louisiana, Jamir captured the crowd with her calm voice and graceful guitar.
Following Jamir was Whale Songz, the second opener of the show. Musical duo Annika Bennett and Olivia Barton spoke openly about their queer identities.
“I am so queer, and I am so monogamous,” said Barton, honouring the LGBTQ+ community through her performance. The audience grew enthusiastic, cheering as Barton explained influences of queer media like “Heartstopper” and “Red, White, and Royal Blue” in her own work.
Performing songs together and from their individual careers, Bennett and Barton were comedically open about individualism and finding their places in the world. Barton sang “Kissing in Public,” which captures the intimacy of her relationship.
Whale Songz’ unreleased song titled “Hot Dog at Costco” describes the dullness surrounding the fast-paced nature of Los Angeles.
For the duo’s last song, “Elton and John,” Ross joined them on stage and sang along. Inspired by Elton John’s memoir, “Me,” they produced a song based on Elton John continuously missing John Lennon throughout his busy career. They wanted to focus on yearning for someone important, no matter how hectic life may get.
After two stellar opening performances, Ross took to the stage with songs from their latest album like “Point of View,” “Stay” and “Terrified.”
Ross’s concert was a safe space. From denouncing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community, Ross’s show posed as a welcome letter to people across every background.
Being nonbinary and gay themselves, many of Ross’ fans found comfort in seeing their queer identity openly expressed. Before doors even opened, fans were signing a white flag decorated with the words “You are Home,” inspired by Ross’ song titled “Home.”
Many of the messages were about Ross’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community. “Let’s Go Lesbians,” “Go Gay People” and a drawing of the transgender flag were one of many markings dedicated to Ross’ queer fanbase.
Ross went on to perform “Tommy” based on a fan’s request. “Tommy” honors Ross’s late grandfather, with the chorus being written from the perspective of their grandmother. Like many of Ross’ works, “Tommy” embraces the love and affection Ross carries for the people in their lives.
Ross commemorated their grandfather with one of his traditions: Ross’s grandfather would get together with other community members in Brandford, Ontario, to play and listen to music. After each meeting, everyone would come together and sing the popular Scottish and Irish folk song, “Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go?”
Ross brought out both opening acts and their bands, encouraging the audience to join in, building a sense of companionship.
Ross’s concert was an eye-opening demonstration of what live music should look and feel like. They tapped into appreciating the art of music and turning to each other to celebrate it.