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Photo: Shane Sumbu

Electrifying, commanding, and in a pure state of bliss, Duckwrth is most himself when he is on stage. A rockstar in every sense of the word, his magnetism belongs nowhere else, keeping a sold-out Echoplex captivated during his 'All American Freak Show' performance in Los Angeles on April 25.

His first headline show since 2022, there was an eagerness emanating from the artist, hungry to bring alive the album he’s poured so much into for years. From “LA Traffic” to “Toxic Romantic,” fans belted every syllable back, clearly longing for the experience just as much. Ever since All American F*ckboy released on April 2, fans have fallen deeper in love with the artist’s most colorful and authentic body of work yet, and experiencing it live only boldened that sentiment. There was no separation between artist and audience, the venue metamorphosing into one organism riding a pure and euphoric high.

Highlights from the one-night only spectacle include IDK joining on stage for “Pitbull,” as well as Duckwrth diving into a near mosh-pit during the fever dream that is “Hurricane J.I.M.” Fans demanded a true encore, in which a puzzled yet humbled Duckwrth obliged with “Hoe Phase.” There was a noticeable absence of “Had Enough,” though the setlist was ultimately satiating. 

The show was opened by collaborator Sherwyn and fellow California native King Isis, both defining voices of Black alternative. King Isis, equipped with guitar in hand, gave a guttural set, including defining singles like “macho man” and her highly-praised “Pound Town” rock cover. She wore a sweet humility that contrasts the depth of her afro-futurist catalog. Sherwyn excitedly made a second comeback later in the show, joining for the feel-good “I’m Really Changing.”

Duckwrth was also joined onstage alongside BLK ODYSSY, All American F*ckboy’s co-producer, who helped make the music tangible. The band’s presence evolved the performance to a dynamic state, lending to an immersive experience that felt intoxicating.

Duckwrth is duality and contradiction, and it is only in his music where both can exist as one. With an imminent tour announcement, it would be a grave mistake not to experience the freak show yourself.