Pop Break Live: Marina ‘Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land’ Tour with Tove Styrke at The Met in Philly – February 22, 2022
Pop star Marina stopped in at The Met in Philly on 2/22. She is touring in support of her newest release, Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land.
Swedish singer Tove Styrke opened the show. Styrke wore a beautiful white dress with puffy sleeves and was accompanied by a guitarist and some backing tracks. The stage setup was simple, with just her name in lights. There were white sparkly projections on the curtain behind her and at times seemingly felt like she was just floating across the stage, almost angelic. She has a “radio-ready” voice and impressed on songs “Changed my Mind, Mistakes,” “Mood Swings” and “Start Walking.” Another highlight was her cover of Abba’s “Super Trooper.” Styrke totally won the crowd over. It was an impressive set that set the tone for the rest of the night.
Marina started off her high energy set with the first two tracks from her latest album, Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land — the title track and “Venus Fly Trap.” There were cool symbols that were projected onto the perimeter of the venue during the first song and gorgeous smoky lighting during her entire set with blues, greens and reds. Marina looked stunning in a black sheer dress with slits down the side.
She was accompanied by a singer and a fantastic band that really energized some of the songs and gave them a little bit of a rock edge. Next up was fan favorite “Froot” and fans went wild upon recognizing the opening chords. “I am Not a Robot” prompted the first sing along of many. She played a few other songs from her exceptional album Family Jewels, which included “Are you Satisfied,” “Hollywood” and “Oh No.” Marina also took a turn on her piano on “Mans World” and “Goodbye.” “Purge the Poison” just put the audience over the top!
The crowd was simply amazing. They sang and danced their hearts out during the night. Marina’s interaction and chemistry with them was off the charts and so heartfelt. She has a huge devoted fanbase in the Tri-State area so they must have been thrilled to hear a three songs off her hugely popular album Electra Heart — “Bubblegum Bitch,” “Teen Idol” and “Heartbreaker.”
Another highlight of the night came right before she sang the song Forget. Marina encouraged the audience to “let go” of something tonight that is really holding you back. She said let’s do it together on this special night of 2/22/22. To be honest, maybe there was something to that because it really did feel like there was magic in the air. It was a special performance and a special crowd. Marina really delivered big. What a night in Philly!
