On November 2nd, Ginger Root brought his eclectic blend of genre-bending indie pop to Phoenix for a performance that felt both nostalgic and fresh, as part of his Shinbangumi tour. The crowd at The Van Buren was treated to a night of infectious grooves, playful lyricism, and vibrant energy from an artist whose ability to merge retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities continues to set him apart.

Ginger Root: The Artist

Ginger Root, the musical alias of multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Cameron Lew, has made a name for himself with his unique brand of “city pop” infused indie music. His sound is rooted in 80s and 90s pop, funk, and soul, but his ability to weave those influences into something contemporary and immediately appealing is where his artistry truly shines. With a voice that feels smooth and effortlessly cool, and a musicality that draws on the retro-futuristic vibe of VHS-era Japan, Ginger Root's live performances are always an invitation to both dance and reflect.

Onstage, Lew is an engaging presence—his easygoing personality and witty charm are matched by his stellar musicianship. His performances aren't just about the music, but about creating a distinctive experience. At The Van Buren, this experience was heightened by his interaction with the audience, which was palpable from the very first note.

Opening Song: "Better than Monday"

As the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Better than Monday” rang out, the energy in the venue was palpable. This track, with its groovy bassline and breezy, tongue-in-cheek lyricism, was the perfect opener. The song's feel-good message about making the most out of the mundane was immediately contagious, and the crowd responded with fervor. From the moment Lew stepped up to the mic, his charisma was undeniable—effortlessly drawing the audience in with both his voice and his dance moves.

The decision to start the show with “Better than Monday” was a smart one, setting the tone for what would be an upbeat, vibrant night. Lew’s stage presence was magnetic, as he hopped between instruments and shifted seamlessly from synths to guitar, creating layers of sound that supported his distinct, almost dreamy vocals.

Aesthetic and Vibe: The VHS Nostalgia

As part of his Shinbangumi tour, Ginger Root has embraced a visual aesthetic that channels the 90s VHS era, and it’s a stroke of genius. The stage backdrop was a sea of old-school VHS static and colorful glitch art, evoking a sense of retro nostalgia that felt deeply tied to the Japanese city pop culture that influences his music. But it wasn’t just the visuals—the entire