Much like Bon Iver in style, sound and approach to music, it’s hard to imagine Novo Amor without the influence of Justin Vernon and his band. One of my initial concerns was whether he could translate the intricate production and sound design of his albums into a live performance. I’ve long adored Novo Amor’s music for its calming and zen-like qualities, and I was eager to see if the live experience would live up to my expectations. Fortunately, the performance exceeded them.
Welsh indie-folk artist Ali John Meredith-Lacey, known as Novo Amor, brought his ethereal sound to White Oak Music Hall in Houston on September 10th. Performing in the venue’s intimate downstairs space, Novo Amor’s soulful presence created a sense of calm and wonder among the audience. His distinctive blend of acoustic textures and atmospheric soundscapes made the night feel like stepping into a dream.
The set began with “First Place,” gently easing the crowd into Novo Amor’s world of tender melodies and introspective lyrics. Accompanied by a three-piece band, he delivered a sound that was both expansive and delicate. The room, bathed in soft, moody lighting, perfectly complemented the tranquil vibe of his music.
As he moved into “Same Day, Same Face” and “Placeholder,” the audience swayed, fully immersed in the experience. Novo Amor’s use of acoustic and electric guitars, along with gentle percussion and subtle keys, showcased his skills as both a singer-songwriter and a sound designer. Tracks like “Years On” and “Decimal,” continued to build the emotional landscape, each song contributing to the uniquely atmospheric quality of the live performance.
A particularly enchanting moment came when the backdrop of Novo Amor’s performance displayed a mesmerizing array of zodiac signs and constellations. This celestial imagery enhanced the dreamlike quality of the show, aligning perfectly with the ethereal soundscapes and adding an extra layer of wonder to the evening; it had to be one of my favorite parts of the night. So subtle but beautiful!
Adding to the intimacy of the night, Novo Amor took time to interact with the crowd. During the performance, he spent a few minutes answering fans’ questions, creating a personal connection with those in attendance. This genuine engagement only deepened the sense of closeness between the artist and the audience.
The heart of the set came with the haunting “Keep Me” and the fan-favorite “Halloween,” where Novo Amor’s falsetto soared, mesmerizing the crowd. Though his vocals are often described as wispy, they possessed a quiet power that filled every corner of the venue. His voice intertwined seamlessly with the ambient instrumentals, creating an intimate and otherworldly atmosphere.
“Birthplace” marked a turning point in the night, with its cinematic swells and poignant lyrics bringing the energy up a notch. The crowd, a mix of young adults and older fans, stood in quiet reverence, some mouthing the words while others simply let the music wash over them. While Novo Amor’s Houston fanbase might not have filled the venue to capacity, the connection between the artist and the audience was undeniable.
Novo Amor skillfully managed the ebb and flow of energy throughout the performance, from the quietly moving “Anchor” to the rhythmic pulse of “Me v2.” As he played “Opaline” and “Repeat Until Death,” it was evident that his music, though subdued on the surface, carried a deep emotional core that resonated strongly with the crowd. His live performance added layers of texture and intensity that can sometimes be missed in the recorded versions, with each song blending seamlessly into the next to create a cohesive and immersive journey.
The evening culminated in a beautifully executed encore with “Hotel/ Easy Feeling.” As the final notes drifted through the hall, Novo Amor left the stage to warm, heartfelt applause from the crowd. His performance in Houston was a testament to his growing prowess as a live artist, seamlessly combining layered instrumentals, emotional depth and atmospheric visuals.
For those seeking a concert experience that transcends the usual setlist and lights, Novo Amor’s show at White Oak Music Hall was a serene, transcendent escape into a world of reflective soundscapes and vulnerable storytelling. His next performance in town is sure to be a must-see for fans of deeply immersive and evocative music.
I'm a Houston/Texas based photographer and Palestinian artist. I am currently attending the University of Houston pursuing a bachelors in Psychology with a Studio Arts minor! Away from the camera lense, I'm documenting captivating moments at a show.. I like to spend my time with friends, reading, visiting antique stores, or spending time with my puppy! I am super passionate about all things art and music and cannot wait to continue sharing that with the world.
