Last week, MUNA took time between stops on their supporting tour with Kacey Musgraves to headline a show in Holyoke. The event marked the first live music performance at Gateway City Arts of the 2022 after several weeks of cancelled and rescheduled shows. Lou Roy opened with a captivating preview of her forthcoming debut album Pure Chaos, adding a cover of Avril Lavigne’s “I’m with You” for extra measure.

MUNA gave their all to a crowd that had lined up in the winter cold hours early to see them. The particularly energetic thrashing from guitarist Josette Maskin prompted the hitherto unanswered question, “does anyone know an ergonomic way to headbang?” The night’s setlist included staples from the band’s two LPs, but notably featured the unreleased, “Kind of Girl,” in addition to a performance of their most recent single, “Silk Chiffon,” with Lou Roy re-emerging onstage to join in. With this stop along the way to the more arena shows, MUNA proved that they are at home on any stage, and their alluring charm was a great way to usher in 2022 for Gateway City Arts.