Sofia Isella at Roundhouse

Sofia Isella is a force. Starting her career in the depths of the COVID-era, the LA-born singer-songwriter has captivated millions online with her political alt-pop. It is refreshing to hear a musician write so eloquently and passionately about the issues of today, particularly womanhood, misogyny and religion. It shapes her show and inspires the audience, who belt from the top of their lungs.

Out in the Garden opens with dizzying bass and chaotic flashing strobe. Her hair curtains over her face as she falls over, clutching at her loose t-shirt with fervour. It’s a gripping act that tells you straight away that this woman means business. She follows up with Hot Gum, a popular track with red lights and drawling synths that take you to the centre of a sweaty club floor. Isella has an impressive aura onstage, and she knows it; this only makes it more compelling. The crowd goes wild when she pulls out a violin mid-EDM break, her strings swelling alongside the synths. We are lucky enough that the violin makes several appearances, alongside an electric guitar, an acoustic guitar, a banjo, and a harmonica. Each instrument is played expertly and blends into her electronic backing track in a way that feels entirely original.

Multiple moments show how connected she is with her supporters. For Evergreen Soldier, she invites three fans onstage to hold her microphone. Brooke, Darcy, and Becca sit with her, the picture squeezing our hearts. Unattractive is a yelled-out request. Even without any rehearsal, it’s one of the best of the night, and it’s bemusing that it’s not on the original setlist.

Isella describes the gig as a full-circle moment for her. She opened for Tom Odell at the same venue two years ago, and now she is headlining. So when Odell himself walks out, the Roundhouse erupts. They perform a haunting rendition of Black Friday to a pindrop-silent room, their voices melting together.

Sofia Isella, just 21, is at the youth of her blossoming career, and yet it’s clear she already knows who she is. The subject matter of her lyrics, the way she carries herself onstage, and the ardour she puts into her vocals all point to a performer well beyond her years. It begs the question: what could she do with a bigger budget, a bigger stage? She replays Hot Gum to close, this time right in the middle of the crowd. Fans shriek with delight as they sing every word, an intimate ending to an entrancing show.