Love was certainly in the air at the 9:30 Club this past Valentine’s Day. Michael Marcargi, an up-and-coming folk artist known for his hit single “Scared to Start,” headlined the popular Shaw concert venue last Friday night with opening act Ashley Kutcher, in a short but sweet show that had couples in the audience swaying and singing together from start to finish.
Ironically, for a venue with the “9:30” title, Marcargi’s show had quite an early start time, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and Kutcher coming on at about 6:35 p.m. Kutcher, a DMV native, did a stellar job opening, beginning the night with some catchy, on-theme love songs: “Love You From a Distance” and “A Crush.” While only on stage for about half an hour, her rock-country-pop persona and charisma left quite an impression.
After a short intermission, it was time for the main act. Marcargi made his appearance around 7:35 p.m. He opened with his 2024 singles “Keep Me Honest” and “Good Enough” before playing a couple of unreleased songs, like “Flyover State.” Marcargi’s setlist featured a refreshing mix of upbeat tracks like “American Romance” and more melancholy ones such as “Tear it All Apart,” and he intermixed stylistic genres in a way that felt cohesive, not fragmentary. For the lovers in the audience, his slow acoustic cover of Harry Styles’ “Falling” was touching and apt.
When the opening chords to his most popular song began, nobody was “Scared to Start” dancing and singing along. The 9:30 Club irradiated with purple lights and Marcargi’s distinctive sound echoed against the walls — an incredible performance to witness.
After 15 songs, Michael praised and thanked the D.C. audience for their support on Valentine’s night before walking offstage, only to be met with numerous chants from the crowd for an encore. Two minutes later, the artist was back on, closing with his second most popular song, “The Other Side,” and newest single, “Midwest Kid,” both optimistic ditties that left concertgoers as pleased as punch.
Growing up in Cincinnatti, Ohio, his songs are reflective of his maturation and pursuits of music and love. After leaving band life for a solo career two years ago, this is Marcargi’s first tour — though it surely will not be his last. Although many fans discovered the singer virtually, his live stage presence felt very natural. Romantic, but fun, with amusing little quips throughout, his show was sure to please the lovebirds of DC (as well as the single college students). Overall, the combination of Marcargi’s funky band, cheerful sound, Noah-Kahan-esque voice, and clever storytelling, made the concert a night to remember!
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