ANNA ERHARD: VOODOO ROOMS, EDINBURGH

Berlin-based singer-songwriter Anna Erhard brought her unique blend of indie-pop and folk to a sold-out Voodoo Rooms in Edinburgh, delivering an intimate, electrifying performance that captivated the audience on a rainy Tuesday night.

The sold-out signs were up at The Voodoo Rooms for an intimate gig from Berlin-based singer-songwriter Anna Erhard, who brought her unique blend of indie-pop and folk to the city on a wet Tuesday night. The small Art Deco venue lent itself perfectly to this type of performance, creating an atmosphere that felt both personal and electrifying.

First up was Nyssa, a Canadian singer-songwriter who mentioned she had two Scottish grannies, making this feel like a homecoming. Playing a short set with a mix of solo guitar performances and songs with a backing track, her guitar-backed numbers stood out, allowing her considerable vocal talents to shine. It was also the first gig I’ve attended where the support act offered tarot card readings after their set! Not sure what the future holds, but Nyssa is one to watch.

Anna Erhard performed as part of a trio, joined by a drummer and a bassist. Her setlist featured songs from her latest album, Botanical Garden, alongside selections from Campsite and Shortcut. Each track carried heartfelt emotion and a playful sense of whimsy.

Standout moments included her latest single, “Not Rick”, and “Botanical Garden”, both of which had the crowd gently swaying. “B.M.G Academy”, a playful tune about distrusting the iconic Blue Man Group, highlighted Anna’s sharp wit and ability to connect with her audience. While her vocals have been likened to Wet Leg—a fair comparison—the songwriting on “Not Rick” evokes the depth of artists like Lucy Dacus or Bess Atwell, hinting at even greater potential.

The Voodoo Rooms’ acoustics complemented her performance, allowing the intricate layers of her music to shine. The enthusiastic crowd response, with cheers and applause after each song, reflected the impact of her set.

Overall, Anna delivered a memorable evening of music that left the audience inspired and eager for more. If you’re a fan of heartfelt and innovative music, catching her live is a must.

Words & pictures: Allan Petrie @albabrae