Alex Isley Delivers An Unforgettable, Sold-Out Show At House Of Blues
Photos and review by Cara Col
On June 7, L.A. singer-songwriter Alex Isley brought excellent R&B artistry to House of Blues. The sold-out show marks the middle of her North American When the City Sleeps tour, supporting her seventh studio album and major-label debut of the same name. Alex Isley delivered a performance that showcased her remarkable vocal ability and captured the late-night reflections that the album glides through. Supported by opening act The Amours, the evening celebrated contemporary R&B at its finest.
The night began with a heartwarming set from The Amours, a duo consisting of Jakiya Ayanna and Shaina Aisha whose vocal chemistry was apparent from the first note. Performing songs from their most recent album Girls Will Be Girls, the pair demonstrated the immense talent that is launching them as a rising force in the genre. Their songs featured layered melodies and rich harmonies; their voices blended so seamlessly that they often sounded like a single instrument.
While firmly rooted in R&B, their music also incorporated elements of West Indian rhythms, adding an infectious energy that kept the crowd engaged throughout the set. Their easy stage presence and genuine enthusiasm helped establish a connection with the audience. A standout moment came during their cover of Lauryn Hill’s “Ex-Factor,” which urged the audience to sing along and highlighted their vocal control and emotional sensitivity. The performance paid tribute to a classic while allowing the duo’s own artistry to shine through.
Right before Alex Isley took the stage, blue light flooded the venue. A blue suede chair with a flower vase on a table was placed next to it on the stage, along with a tall lamp a little further from it. House of Blues became the album cover of When the City Sleeps. In this setting, the emotional storytelling of her songs was inescapable. Her vocals were flawless throughout the night, effortlessly moving between delicate, airy passages and powerful peaks. She swayed across the stage, feeling every groove and lyric, in a polished and personal way. The audience responded enthusiastically, singing along to nearly every song and proving just how beloved her catalog has become.
The band’s musicianship elevated the performance. Funky bass lines underscored many of the songs, while snaps and subtle percussion added rhythmic texture. The sound mix was exceptional; the bass resonated through the floor and could be felt at your feet, yet it never overpowered Isley’s vocals or the intricate guitar melodies woven throughout the arrangements. Every element blended beautifully, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.
The setlist moved fluidly between sensual, intimate songs and upbeat, danceable R&B-pop anthems. Fan favorites generated some of the loudest reactions of the night. “Love Again” and “Mine” inspired enthusiastic sing-alongs, while “Into Orbit” prompted audience members to raise their phone flashlights, filling the venue like stars, perfectly complementing the song’s dreamy atmosphere.
Throughout the evening, Isley repeatedly thanked the crowd for their energy and support, and many in the crowd yelled back in gratitude. With seamless transitions between songs, outstanding musicianship, and a voice that remained captivating from start to finish, Alex Isley delivered a performance that reminded everyone why she remains one of the most compelling artists in contemporary R&B.
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