Lauren Monroe, along with legendary Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen, played a heartfelt set of songs in an intimate setting at The Loft (City Winery DC) this past week. What an honor to have been granted access to cover this performance. Monroe’s music and lyrics are deeply moving and have a healing quality. The subjects and themes within the songs are intense yet the music is somewhat sedative. Bluesy Novocaine for the soul. Bravo.

If you are unfamiliar with Lauren Monore’s music I strongly encourage you to explore. She has an abundance of great material. If you are unfamiliar with Rick Allen and/or Def Leppard…you must not be from this planet. Anyway, be sure to check out the Official Lauren Monroe Website for music, news, merch, and tickets for all upcoming tour dates. Continue reading below for my full review. All images copyright and courtesy of Andy Jillson.

Lauren Monroe is not only a gifted singer-songwriter she is also an energy healer, author, and public speaker. Her husband Rick Allen of Def Leppard has tirelessly toured the planet and has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. In fact, the entire band are obviously extremely talented musicians. Each complimenting the other.

Throughout the 90-minute set Monroe and Allen both addressed the audience and gave insight into some of the songs. The crowd was loving the performance and seemed to be entranced by Monroe’s music and stage presence. Good vibes just oozed from her.

One of the highlights of the night was Monroe’s performance of her song “Color of Snow.” This is a suicide prevention song. It tells the true story of a veteran who was going to commit suicide but was ultimately stopped by family and supportive community members. Some of the audience became undeniably emotional during this particular song.

Monroe’s set included plenty of songs off her newest album, 2021s Under the Wolf Moon. The album is stacked with sonic gold. Top notch songwriting, musicianship, and plenty of uplifting messages.

Under the Wolf Moon is Monroe’s second studio album and features keyboardist Benmont Tench and drummer Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers); seasoned session vet, lead guitarist Waddy Wachtel (Keith Richards/Linda Ronstadt/Stevie Nicks); drummer Rick Allen (Def Leppard); bassist Bob Glaub (Jackson Browne/Linda Ronstadt/Bonnie Raitt); drummer Kenny Aronoff (John Cougar Mellencamp/John Fogerty) and others.

Lauren Monroe’s new single “Kiss Me Now” was just released earlier this month. This is her first official release of 2022 and is well worth a listen. Monroe herself describes the song as “a reminder of the impermanence of life – a reminder to be grateful for who we have and the journey we have taken with loved ones.” She also was quoted as saying, “It’s about being happy and free, having fun but remembering it all ends one day.”

I feel extremely fortunate to have had this experience. The music, setting, and overall atmosphere of the show was quite pleasant. I look forward to more music and another tour in the near future.

Below are more photos from Monroe’s and Allen’s performance in The Loft at City Winery DC on 3/24/2022. All images copyright and courtesy of Andy Jillson/Hazy Eye Media. Enjoy!