Pink Sweat$ @ The Corner Hotel (9/1/2020)

There’s a tantalising edge to music that heals heartbreak when Pink Sweat$ delivers it. Where a level of precariousness exists in live music, the Philadelphia born singer-songwriter amplifies his depth when addressing the tumult of lust, love and heartbreak. His depth a true signal of a musician secure in his soulful way of serenading . 

Although expectedly hitting the stage dressed head to toe in pink, customised ‘Pink Sweat$’ attire, the entirety of the set highlighted a slight dissonance between the singer’s clothing and performing persona. As a performer, Pink Sweat$ delivered atypical visceral moments throughout his set, whilst permeating a jovial, interactive energy that the audience could latch onto. 

“You guys are fun, you’re a great crowd”, confesses the musician after performing a string of songs that sharpens the audience’s passion and appreciation for him as a musician.

Expanding his role within his band, Sweat$ sporadically played his own percussion, and put his vocal range to the test by blasting and belting reverberating high notes that brought upon a shift in the dynamic of the show. Crediting the crowd was a touching gesture, yet there was a feeling of indebtedness to the singer and his contribution to giving the crowd the wings to unwind, and still make their voices heard. 

Pink Sweat$ apparently knows all the tricks of the trade to making a show memorable. The most stunning elements of the singer’s set were the off-the-cuff moments, involving him singing an impromptu song to a fan, inviting a handful of front row supporters on stage to dance alongside him, and giving a couple their “space” and a moment to distance themselves from the chaos of a crowded room. Whether these moments were pre-planned or not didn’t feel significant as they unfolded, only deeply engaging and energising. 

Concluding his unassailable set was his breakout single Honesty, performed with less structure, but more drive than the studio version. Rich with solos from each member of his live band and himself, and isolated drum beats that added character and gravity to each ‘I want you’ uttered ended the show with burning spirit from the audiences and performers alike. 

With the influx of RnB in the modern era, singers are abundant, but performers are a rarity. As many singers point their arrows to the centre of the dartboard to find tender, lo-fi beats, acts as sensitive and gripping like Pink Sweat$ are an anomaly, to be nurtured and cherished for the long haul.