Beth Ditto performs at The Anthem on Oct. 5, 2018. (Photos by Paivi Salonen; Words by Samara Tu)

Touring still on debut solo album Fake Sugar, Beth Ditto opened Florence and the Machine at The Anthem on Friday.

Among a crowd that consisted of Florence and the Machine fans dressed in white vintage dresses and flower crowns, the talented, funny, and edgy Beth, former lead singer of indie rock band The Gossip, strode onto stage to open the show.

Beth showcased her vocal talents with songs from her solo record, such as “In and Out” and “Fire,” and a cover of Aretha Franklin’s “A Natural Woman.” She also sang great songs from The Gossip like “Listen Up!” and “Standing in the Way of Control.”

Despite some issues with her microphone, her raunchy humor, a contrast to the headliner, had the audience laughing hysterically. We missed her warm presence dearly when it came time to watch Florence and the Machine!

Stream Fake Sugar by Beth Ditto on Spotify:

Going to see Florence and the Machine? Arrive early for Beth Ditto! Here are some photos of Beth Ditto at The Anthem on Oct. 5, 2018. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Paivi Salonen.