When I think of the fashion style ‘Indie Sleaze’, the first person that comes to mind is Sky Ferreira. In my early 20’s, I had first heard of Sky during my own angsty indie era of alt-pop. I never thought 10 years later I’d be standing 2 meters away from her at the Forum, Melbourne, where she put on a sold-out RISING performance. Despite being 20 minutes late, Sky Ferreira’s return to Australia after a decade drew a mix of young Gen Z and millennials, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

When she took to the stage with her four-piece band, the dim blue lights set the mood, her icy blonde hair and shades exuding effortless coolness. In the midst of the dimness, Sky Ferreira’s captivating, rock influenced, edgy pop exudes a distinct indie sleaze vibe, reminiscent of the defining sounds of 2013. Her performance felt like a mesmerising dance in the vibrant hues of the music world, bringing forth a sense of nostalgia and energy that embodied the unique musical landscape of that time, and sending me back to my early 20’s. 

She started with ‘You’re Not The One’, followed by ‘I Blame Myself’ and ’24 Hours’. Her icy locks covered her face as she sang; her voice was crisp, clear and beautiful. However, I did notice that these songs sounded somewhat different from the ones recorded all those years ago, the ones you listen to online. Hearing them live had a more chill melody, that perhaps reflected her evolving self. 

In-between tracks she made a few comments, giggles and apologies; yet seeing her was an absolute dream. Who’d have thought a girl I’d been scrolling on Tumblr was standing there in front of me? This is what millennial dreams are made of.

The night closed with her biggest and best hit, ‘Everything Is Embarrassing’. The crowd’s appreciation roared with a mix of excitement, screams, singalongs and love to Sky. Let’s hope it won’t be another decade before she returns to Melbourne again. 

Written by Adriana Perri @leblondefox