Live Review: Scene Queen in Leeds

Typically, midweek gigs are usually a little bit hit and miss, but on Tuesday night, the University Stylus in Leeds was full to the rafters for the Scene Queen show, with support from the incredible Delilah Bon and In Her Own Words. The venue was packed to capacity with eager fans decked out in feather boas, glitter, and more pink than the weekend the Barbie Movie came out.

The night kicked off with Delilah Bon, which consists of Lauren, Ruena, and Hela, who all stormed onto the stage with a ferocity that was impossible to ignore. From the get-go, this fiery performance was a rollercoaster ride of empowerment and raw energy, seamlessly weaving together the aggressive tones of angry punk and riot grrrl ethos with a versatile mix of genres, including nu metal, hip hop, melodic rap, and 90s pop influences, AKA “Brat Punk.”

Throughout her short support slot, Delilah played songs such as ‘Brat’, ‘I Don’t Listen To You’, and a personal favourite, ‘Dead Men Don’t Rape’. The setlist was a cathartic journey through songs that didn’t just acknowledge the discrimination faced by women and the LGBTQ+ community but unapologetically confronted them head-on. During their song ‘War on Women’, Hela boldly held up a banner that said “Trans Rights are Human Rights”, and bassist Ruena held their guitar in the air which read “We Will Not Be Silenced” on the back of it. The music resonated with a powerful message: we’re no longer just upset about the injustices we face; we’re angry. As the music blared, and Delilah’s powerful lyrics resonated through the crowd, there was a tangible sense of solidarity in the room.

The energy was electrifying, and it was clear that these three powerful women were not just there to entertain but to channel the collective anger and frustration of the audience. Every note seemed to carry a message of rebellion, resilience and self-love. It felt to me like a celebration and a protest at the same time. Delilah Bon’s performance was a rallying cry, a reminder that we can and should channel our anger into positive change. In a world where the fight for equality continues, this performance was a reminder that music can be a catalyst for change. This support slot left me inspired and ready to join the uprising.

Up next, and changing the mood a little, was American rock band, In Her Own Words. I have been a fan of IHOW’s music for a while and was surprised to see these guys on the line up. For me personally, this support slot felt a little bit out of place. Despite this, the band delivered an energetic and passionate performance that undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the audience.

With a unique blend of melodic and pop-punk influences, In Her Own Words brought a refreshing dynamic to the stage. Playing songs such as ‘Right Now’ and ‘Silver Lights’, their catchy hooks and emotive lyrics kept the crowd in high energies. One poignant moment during their set was when the band played the heartfelt song written about and dedicated to Joey Flemming’s (vocals) dad. With Flemming’s encouragement, the crowd raised their phones into the air, creating a sea of twinkling lights that illuminated the University Stylus. It was a powerful and emotionally charged moment that brought a sense of unity to the audience.

Although their style might have contrasted with the other acts on this line up, they managed to carve out their own space, demonstrating their ability to captivate an audience. By the end of their set, it was evident that In Her Own Words had won over a considerable number of new fans, despite being relatively unknown at the start of their set. Their tight performance and genuine passion for their craft left a positive mark on the evening, reminding me that even in a diverse line up, musical talent can shine through and connect with listeners. 

Now for the main event, the “Bimbocore” Queen herself graced the stage. I’d been waiting to see her again since I caught the end of her set at Slam Dunk this year and I was not disappointed. Scene Queen’s stage presence was nothing short of mesmerising. She was an absolute powerhouse from the second she walked on the stage to the very second the show ended. 

With a reputation for challenging societal norms, empowering women and addressing issues like abuse and misogyny in the music scene, she brought her powerful message to life on stage. As the audience screamed the lyrics to songs such as ‘Pink Rover’ and ‘18+’ it was clear that this was more than just a concert on a random Tuesday night – it was a celebration and proof that music could create a fun, safe space for people to connect, express themselves, and support one another (and shake their booty).

What struck me the most was the sense of community and acceptance all throughout the Leeds venue; it was like discovering a safe haven I couldn’t help but wish I had during my teen years. Scene Queen’s performance wasn’t just about the music; it was about creating a safe space where everyone could be their authentic selves. Offering solace and strength to those who, like me, could never quite fit into one box. It was an incredible night that left a lasting impression, reminding me of the power of live music to transform and heal.

The artist’s ability to use her music to spark important conversations while creating an incredibly fun atmosphere of unity and celebration is nothing short of remarkable. It’s no surprise that every date of her Bimbos Beans & Toast UK headline tour received a venue upgrade within a month of being announced. Scene Queen’s powerful message and infectious energy are irresistible, making her a must-see act for anyone looking to be inspired and entertained in equal measure.