Live Review: Melissa Ferrick at The Bell House

Melissa Ferrick is known for her intense work ethic and commitment to constant touring, which earns her loyal, die-hard fans everywhere she goes. Brooklyn’s Bell House welcomed her back with open arms and a packed house on Valentine’s Day.

Keeping with the spirit of the holiday, Melissa played only love songs, occasionally breaking into witty character impersonations and animated snippets of Devo’s “Whip It” and Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).” Thanks to a career that spans over eighteen years, Melissa’s set lists are always varied and lively. Songs both old and new were performed, including “Asking for Love,” a song that Melissa said felt good to perform after eight years; “Heartbeat,” from her current album, Goodbye Youth; and a brand-new song, titled “Match.” “Asking for Love” was incredibly fitting, about a woman at a bar fending off advances with the lyrics “What makes you think / You’re what I’m here for / I came here to drink.” During “Heartbeat,” the audience was invited to snap along while Melissa showed off her impressive whistling skills. “Match,” a song about letting go of anger, borrowed Maya Angelou’s words, “Anger is like fire. It burns it all clean.” Her magnetic personality, rich voice, and unparalleled guitar playing drew the audience in song after song.

Towards the end of the night, Anne Heaton joined Melissa on stage for the poignant “Anything Anywhere” and a haunting and beautiful cover of Radiohead’s “Creep.” As always, Melissa played her signature song, “Drive,” during the encore. For many fans, a Ferrick show is not complete without the hot and heavy song closing out the night. After eight years of hearing it, Valentine’s Day was finally the right setting.

- Review submitted by Danielle Kramer.