Snail Mail delighted fans with a beautiful performance at Minneapolis’ First Avenue last weekend.

Valentine, Lindsey Jordan’s critically-acclaimed sophomore album, had obviously set the theme for the night. The First Avenue stage was adorned with cupids and Jordan’s mic stand was wrapped in ivy. As Snail Mail took to the stage, red lighting illuminated the venue. The response from her fans was strong, and Jordan paused before her third song Glory to praise the audience for their early showing of support.

Jordan’s energy was light, and she was all smiles as she made her way around the stage. Back-to-back with guitarist Benjamin Kaunitz, and later pushing and shoving playfully, Jordan was a delight to watch. One could easily tell that she cherishes the opportunity to perform for her fans.

The highlight of the night occurred during Jordan’s stunning, solo performance of Light Blue. Despite Jordan’s teasing beforehand, “let’s get sensitive,” the room was instantly captivated by the first verse. “First time I met you, I knew then / Afterwards there’d be no in-between.” Jordan’s simple yet powerful lyrics and desirous vocal delivery was phenomenal.

After Full Control, Jordan shared a bit of Snail Mail history after spotting opening band Joy Again’s Blaise O’Brien watching her performance side stage. “That song is about me and Blaise fighting over a girl when we were 15. Now look at us.”

Jordan ended her set with my personal favorite Forever (Sailing) before reappearing for a two-song encore. Once again joking with the crowd, Jordan introduced the final song as “new” before launching into her most well-known track Pristine. I was thoroughly impressed by the rapport Jordan was able to build with her audience. Her openness and casual, carefree energy made it feel as though we were all friends celebrating Jordan’s music together.

Photos: Morgan Winston