FLO Gave Boston Access To All Areas
Pop star girl group FLO captivated the House of Blues on Tuesday, April 28. The trio, comprised of Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer, released their stunning debut album Access All Areas last November and stopped by Boston for their Access All Areas North American Tour. The night began with R&B bombshell Chxrry, who jumpstarted the show with her smooth vocals. She confidently strutted around the stage in a peach marching band-inspired corset and sparkling black conductors hat. She loved interacting with the crowd, dipping down to the barricade to sing with fans before imparting her final words of wisdom for the night: "Always know your worth…and I want you to say 'I'm that bitch!'"
Chxrry photographed by Samantha Davidson
The preshow playlist continued to excite the crowd, with the entire venue singing along to tracks like "Freakum Dress" by Beyoncé and "Doo Wop (That Thing)" by Ms. Lauryn Hill. Soon after, the lights dimmed again and the crowd erupted with cheers. The group knows how to make a grand entrance, with the girls appearing silhouetted behind three archways covered in fabric atop a glowing staircase.
They immediately commanded the crowd with sharp choreography and tight harmonies. FLO highlighted their catchy melodies and clever lyricism through expressive arm movements and striking group poses. The track "Check," a breakout hit about what to look for in a relationship, specifically showcased their performing talents. During part of the song, they sat on the stairs as if having an intimate conversation with friends, inviting the audience to feel included in their gossip session. Throughout the night, FLO continued to flawlessly execute intricate dance routines, a testament to their ability to bring studio-quality vocals to a live performance setting.
FLO photographed by Samantha Davidson
They included props like red wine glasses during the track "Bending My Rules" to further welcome the audience into their world: it was as if the venue was part of a toast. They maintained their airtight grasp on the crowd, giving each girl their moment, and showcasing the tight-knit bond of the group. The setlist effortlessly weaved between high-energy R&B and more emotional ballads. They created dynamic moments even when performing with mic stands during songs like "Cardboard Box," where they incorporated the stands into the choreography.
Their infectious energy reached its peak during hits like "In My Bag (feat. GloRilla)" and "I'm Just A Girl" toward the end of the set, with fans emphatically singing along as if it was the first song of the night. FLO executed a masterclass of live music, harnessing lighting and movement that enhanced the instrumentals. Each aspect of the production immersed the venue in the aesthetic of All Access Areas. Their loyal fanbase expressed their excitement with handmade jerseys and painted jackets, creating a sea of the album's signature red. Make sure to catch FLO live before the Access All Area Tour ends in July. Buy tickets here.
FLO photographed by Samantha Davidson