Porter Robinson at the O2 Ritz, Manchester

By Anya Baxter.

Grammy-nominated American DJ and musician Porter Robinson put on a mesmerising performance at Manchester's O2 Ritz.

Photo by Anya Baxter

Since the age of 18 when he was signed to Skrillex's record label, Porter Robinson has been making a name for himself in the dance music world and DJ industry. Collaborating with other artists such as Madeon and Zedd, Robinson has had two studio albums peak at the number one spot on Billboard's Top Dance/Electronic Albums. His sophomore album, "Nurture" was released in 2021, and consists of a number of inspirational and introspective tracks signature to Robinson's voice as an artist, using pitch-processing to create a feminine/childlike quality to express vulnerability.

Photo by Anya Baxter

Opening the set with a blend of "Lifelike" and "Wind Tempos", Robinson headed straight into "Something Comforting" and "Look at the Sky", before performing a solo rendition of "Shelter" which he released with fellow DJ, Madeon. With a crowd made up of what mostly appeared to be students, there was a youthful and fun energy in the place, and the floorboards were shaking from the jumping. After a lockdown with no live music, young people were finding their footing again and letting themselves go, Robinson leading the way.

Photo by Anya Baxter

Songs such as "Mirror", "Musician" and "Mother" saw through emotional sentiments as a screen at the back of the stage depicted images of nature, the sky and Japanese inspired artwork to compliment the music. Robinson also utilised audience participation, by letting an audience member have a try at controlling a few sounds, and using a laptop to project a stream of the audience onto the stage at the back. All of this highlighted Robinson's knowledge and expertise of technology, especially when it comes to music. Watching him recreate his songs in real time was truly impressive, and he is clearly a very gifted musician and producer.

Photo by Anya Baxter

Robinson never failed to excite the audience, as he closed out the set with "Unfold" and "Trying to Feel Alive", before ending a fantastic performance with "Get Your Wish" for the encore.

Photo by Anya Baxter