On September 6th, 2024, EDM/pop artist, Porter Robinson graced Orlando with his brand new show, and let me tell you, it's a ride! The Smile! :D tour is a journey through Porter's past and present eras, bringing all the magic of his previous tours with tons of extra added fun. The show took us through a range of emotions, from candy-sweet happiness to nostalgic tears. But what makes this one so special? What separates the Smile! :D tour from the shows of the past? Let's dive in and talk about everything you can expect before you snag those tickets!
First of all, I'd like to open this review by saying this is the only concert you'll see with a giant inflatable cat on stage. It's also probably the only concert you'll see with a giant blue solo cup on stage, oh yeah, and some giant glowing orbs. Top it all off with confetti cannons and Ericdoa's entire bedroom on stage for the opener and you've got a whole carnival going on. This show uses so many endearing little props that really set it apart from a typical concert. The set is designed with an enormous pink billboard in front of a larger screen, creating the illusion of a grand city behind the full band. The visuals that come with this setup are beyond enchanting, creating some of the most immersive and playful ways to interpret Porter's music. Most of the lyrics are shown on the screen, prompting everyone to sing along.
So, let's talk about the music! This show (aside from a select few Nurture performances) is the first time Porter has been backed by a full band for a tour. Having seen him solo many times before, I can truly confirm that the band adds something really special to the show. Everything is louder, brighter, and more alive. The band's bass player, Margot, is featured as a vocalist in several portions of the show and she is absolutely phenomenal. The main guitarist, Rafa, rips out a wicked guitar solo as well, making our heads spin with his skills. It's clear that this group has amazing synergy and hours of practice together. They bring so much vibrance to Porter's stage and keep that energy up throughout every song they play.
The show's setlist begins with "Knock Yourself Out XD" and flows through each of the tracks on the new album, save for one, but we'll talk about that later. Of course, the show can't end there. It only gets better. After the Smile portion of the show, we're treated to bite-size versions of both the Nurture and Worlds sets. This feels especially thoughtful, as it gives new fans the chance to experience something they may have missed in the past. While this was my sixth Porter Robinson concert, it was my partner's first, and it was so wonderful for him to get to experience a part of Nurture the way I saw it. Beyond that, as a fan who came in around 2019, it was amazing for me to get to see part of Worlds!
Overall, there are so many little details and moments in this show that I could write a novel on and it still wouldn't be enough. All of the little references, jokes, and joys of being in this fandom are wrapped up in this incredible show layered in the shiniest pink paper you've ever seen. Unfortunately, all things must come to an end, so let's talk about the encore.
After the Worlds section of the concert ends, you know it still isn't over. The billboard comes alight again with the character, Rin, from the "Shelter" music video. We see the orbs glow as she presses buttons on her tablet, playing that iconic hook we all know and love. You can't have a Porter show without "Shelter". But it's still not over! For the final song, Porter leaves the stage for a split second and returns with his signature black and red wings, sending us off with Smile! :D's featured single, "Cheerleader". This had to be the most intense part of the night because Porter called for a mosh pit during the track. Crazy!
We left that night voiceless, covered in confetti, and exhausted, but we had the time of our lives. If you like EDM, pop, rock, or all of the above, this show is for you. If you like crazy cool light shows and immersive set design, this show is for you. If you want to feel like you belong amongst a community of wholesome strangers, this show is for you. It's a party from beginning to end that you won't want to miss. It's definitely more intense than Porter's previous tours, but it brings the same emotion that we all feel as fans and I think that's what it's all about. So, what do you think? Would you go see this show? Let us know on our socials below!
Written By Shelbi Baker
*copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
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