Record stores used to be a major spot for touring musicians to stop and play, but as physical retail locations began to phase out of the cultural zeitgeist, these shop performances have been all but lost.
Record stores used to be a major spot for touring musicians to stop and play, but as physical retail locations began to phase out of the cultural zeitgeist, these shop performances have been all but lost.
Richmond, however, has no shortage of record stores, and one such business, Plan 9 Music in Carytown had been hosting performances in their old location for years, and even though their new spot is a little smaller, there’s still room for a solid act to sing a few tunes.
And it just so happens Tidewater-born wunderkind Natalie Prass stopped by Plan 9 to perform a set before she took on The Broadberry later that night.
Prass was also there to promote the release of her self-titled debut album, which has debuted to rapturous critical praise. Pitchfork music even complimented her by saying she has “…the voice of an emancipated Disney princess”.
Performing on the corner stage in front on Plan 9’s front window, Prass’ tender yet soulful vocals filled the space with ease. Switching from keyboard to guitar throughout her performance, Prass effortlessly enraptured the audience, with all eyes on her.
In addition to performing tracks from her album, including “Bird of Prey” and “Why Don’t You Believe Me,” Prass also covered Janet Jackson’s classic “Any Time, Any Place.”
As a nod to the Kiss shirt she was wearing, Prass also performed a Kiss cover, and promised to play a more polished version that night at The Broadberry.
Finishing out at a neat 45 minutes, Prass left the small stage feeling bigger than it had been before, and went to sign copies of her record and Plan 9 exclusive posters. It likely won’t be long until we see this talented performer on bigger stages, making this intimate show all the more special.
