We stumbled into a nice surprise on our way to Disturbed’s set in Orlando early this week. As is our typical M.O., we were scrambling to get to our seats in time to catch the opener, Plush. We entered at the wrong side of the newly named Kia Arena (nee Amway Center) and had to circumnavigate nearly the entire concourse as the openers played their first two songs.
A powerfully impressive female voice drifted through each portal that we passed. I quickly mentioned to my wife that her voice was hauntingly reminiscent of Ann Wilson’s (Heart) legendary voice. We were getting our first taste of Plush’s lead singer, the talented and young Moriah Formica. Damn her voice was just as powerful as the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame’s, and her range was quite impressive.
Over the years, we’ve discovered bands who later became favorites, at the top of the bill and previously unknown to us. Artists such as Frank Turner, Twenty-One Pilots and Of Monsters and Men, quickly come to mind. Plush has a chance to be the next one of those acts.
Plush is an all-female band touring in support of their second EP, Find the Beautiful and they are wrapping up their support of Disturbed and Falling In Reverse. The four ladies belied their young ages (all are under 24), and delivered a tight, cohesive set. Now, I’m not saying they’re the next Heart, but they’re talented, and have a few sweet tracks already in their arsenal.
Their thirty minute setlist featured their 2021 hit, “Hate” and closed with a killer rendition of “Left Behind.” My favorite moment was a scorching cover of Heart’s “Barracuda.” I’d have recommended a deeper cut, like “Sleep Alone,” but they pulled off “Barracuda” impressively. Powerful stuff! The song has also been released on the recent EP.
Formica made a cameo later in the evening when she took the stage for a duet with Disturbed’s David Draiman. The song they played, “Don’t Tell Me” is on Disturbed’s latest album Divisive, where it was recorded with a little help from their friend in Heart. Another tough challenge, but Formica nailed it.Tour dates can be found at plushrocks.net. Their plans include a few festival stops, including the huge 4 day Welcome To Rockville in Daytona this May. We’ll be there, and this time, we’ll make sure we are front and center before they hit their first notes.
