(February 2, 2024, Ridgewood, NY, Stone Circle Theater) - As I stood in my paint stained work boots and worn Levi’s among a sea of college age socialites dressed to the nines I felt practically naked. I was easily distinguishable from the other fashion forward attendees of 47 magazines 1 year anniversary party. This did nothing however to diminish my enjoyment of the vibes. The DJ queued the hits from Soulja Boy to Bruno Mars. The room was abuzz with the sounds of good cheer.

I arrived halfway through the penultimate set. Artist “Sam The Woo” put on a magnetic performance backed by a stellar band. The song “Skinsuit” was a standout. Afterwards I headed back to the Green Room where the headlining act was preparing for their own performance. The band members talked shop with the event organizer. While I admit the finer technical significance of their conversation may have eluded me; I could tell they were cool, confident and ready to play. I gave congratulations to the band departing and wished luck to the ones taking stage. 

I followed them shortly, taking position at the foot of the stage. I gripped an iPhone tight in my hand like a gunslinger to his iron. I was ready to capture the crowning moment of the night. Jake, the stage director, delivered the key introduction with all the stage presence of a showbiz veteran. “You might know them from TikTok garnering a community of 6.2  million followers, but they’re not here through a screen. They are here IN PERSON tonight to show you what pop excellence looks like. Everyone give it up for MEGAGONEFREE!”

And there they were. The spotlight found Mega quickly per usual. The charming smile, the dramatic saunter, the intense gaze as if Mega were actually capable of meeting every eye in the crowd at once. Mega was back in their element.

The band launches into the opening measures of “Thermostat”; it ebbs and flows before the climatic verse draws cheers from the crowd. Mega takes the moment to catch her breath, but it doesn’t last long. The musical momentum keeps the show moving. “In the Kitchen” showcases the signature show woman style that makes their stage persona so iconic. The sensual serenade of a “Feeling Good” cover raises the temperature in the room. “Likes and Comments” grabs the audience’s attention with its atypical hyper pop inspired sound. 

The second half of the set begins with the crowd pleasing hit “Talkin Bout’ Bri” and its iconic chorus, which never fails to draw oo’s of recognition from someone in the crowd. Then comes my personal favorite part of the set; as the tempo is slowed to an angelic calm for the heart breaking ballad “The Hills You Die On”. This marks the best showcase of Mega’s songwriting chops and the softer part of her vocal range. Then comes the powerhouse “Blackfire” to send the energy right back into high gear. Last but certainly not least comes the grown and sexy ode to Lesbian love “Henrietta Hudson”. 

After the raucous applause dies down Mega turns to shout out the band. Martin on keys gives the ivories a flourish, Raine beats a hard rock rhythm in salute, and Jack on the bass brings the groove. The trio earns their own round of applause. Before she can leave the stage, Jake asks Mega to take part in one last special moment. He beckons Mark and Sophia, the co-founders of 47 magazine, to join them on stage as a birthday cake is brought out. The mic is returned to Mega one last time as she leads the room in a giant chorus of “Happy Birthday”. The entrepreneurial dynamic duo blow out their candles and make a wish. A nice bow on a night celebrating the young publication’s success.

There was a feeling in the air that marked the aftermath of a special experience. Mega is pulled in 4 directions at once; here for an interview, there for an autograph, here again to receive the latest sentiment of praise or congratulations. Well earned I’d say. None can deny that the main event served as promised, delightfully.

What the crowd last night may not have known is that they are getting a preview of what promises to be more electric performances coming soon. MegaGoneFree is taking the show on the road . There are shows planned for Boston and NYC in March, and Baltimore in April with perhaps even more tour dates to be added in the future. I for one will be streaming my favorite Mega tracks “Likes and Comments” (Unreleased) and “Black Fire” in anticipation for the next ethereal experience.

Until then stay safe Goners and be kind to each other.