Betty Who and COIN deliver synch-pop at the Republic

NYC-based Australian singer-songwriter Betty Who headlines a show this past Tuesday at Warehouse District venue the Republic, with Nashville band COIN opening — Betty Who endorsing her latest album, Take Me When You Go, and COIN supporting their 2015, self-titled album. Though the two acts are both immersed in the emerging synth-pop scene, Betty Who’s sound resembles that of Katy Perry, COIN’s music is similar to the work of The Killers and Snow Patrol.

COIN is comprised of Chase Lawrence on synth/vocals, Joe Memmel on guitar/vocals, Ryan Winnen on drums, and Zachary Dyke on bass. Their set was a quick, seven-song romp, of which they played one new track. Both “Run” and “Atlas” received enthusiastic reactions from the crowd. Chase lamented on how surprised he was that the audience was singing along, but who could help them? The impressive new album sounds even better live.

Betty Who is singer Jessica Anne Newham’s alter ego. Newham, who grew up in Australia and migrated to the US for college, attended Berklee College of Music in Boston where she met producer Peter Thomas who would later become instrumental in molding Newham’s sound. Touring keyboardist Benjamin Alleman (T’Ben) and bass player Jemila Naomi Dunham, both from New Orleans and fellow Berklee alums, also served as pivotal musicians involved in the beginnings of Newnham’s career.

Before performing, Betty Who’s band took the stage, plaingy a few minutes before the singer appeared with a burst of energy, donning a Toni Basil-inspired cheerleader outfit.Throughout her set, Newham encouraged the audience to sing along, which they willingly obliged with. Not wanting to disappoint, in true rock star fashion, Newham returned to the stage after her performance for an encore of her biggest hit, “Somebody Loves You.” View an extended gallery here.