Poppers to Poppy

Hi, I am not Poppy. But the person who stood in front of me, in the flesh, on August 22nd was. My first introduction to Poppy was in 2017,  when their ominous videos went viral. The videos were shrouded by a veil of mystery, and had me begging the question – who is Poppy?

Turns out, Poppy, participated in these YouTube videos, but also made pop music under the pseudonym ThatPoppy Songs like “Lowlife”, off their 2016 EP Bubblebath, stood as staples in the beginnings of their music career. Rediscovering them in recent years has shown that Poppy is much more than a viral internet sensation, but a talented musician, guitarist, and lyricist. In recent years, their transition from bubble-pop to nu-metal cements their position within the music scene and proves that Poppy is – yes, an enigmatic figure that exudes a mysterious aura – but also a force to be reckoned with. Songs like “Lessen the Damage”, “Girls in Bikinis”, and “I Disagree” stand as anthems for the anger, passion, and ultimate talent Poppy embodies within nu-metal as well as the recent cover of Spit (2000) by 90’s nu-metal band Kittie. 

August 22nd– the night before the first day of school. My partner and I  rushed to the concert at 10:00 PM, getting there right in time to see Poppy’s set. Entering while Poppy was singing, the audience was almost completely silent. Platform doc martens, spikes, and demonias filled the room– so many mullets. The silence confused us. “Did we miss their set?” Nope – it was just getting started.  We stood at the corner edge of the audience and felt the push of the audience outwards which means we were ‘finna be in the pit’. We pushed into the audience, and a familiar high-pitched voice I heard in 2017 spoke over the speakers, followed by arguably some of the most ear-gasmic growls and screams in today’s nu-metal artists. The dichotomous voices embodied by Poppy kept the audience on their toes anticipating the next song, the next scream, the next kick – every move was consumed with the utmost excitement. 

Despite the several technological issues, the mosh pit continued – persevere even. The audience went crazy for songs like “Scary Mask”, “Lessen the Damage”, and “My Microphone” which was preceded by a long intro where Poppy’s interaction with the audience created an environment where the repeated phrases “I lost something. Can you help me find it?” had everyone asking “What did she lose?” 

One of the most memorable moments of the night was the picture Poppy took of the audience.  Everyone  on the floor pushed to the center, and  everyone in the balcony hung over the rail to be in the frame. Everyone inside the Regency Ballroom squished together to remember the fun, sweat, and lyrics we all shared.

Poppy’s performance was by far one of the most high energy shows that I’ve been to.  Their set demonstrated their determination and passion for the music they make. While their online persona is centered around mystery, enigmas, and curiosity, the connection made with the audience bridges the gap of who Poppy is. It answers the question of “Who is Poppy?” and leaves you with “How can I see more of them?”

Article by Vicente Angel