Ellie Smith’s ‘Play the Villain’ Takes Center Stage at Vic’s Las Vegas

By Laura Henkel

Broadway sensation Ellie Smith recently dazzled audiences at Vic’s Las Vegas during a stunning performance celebrating her debut rock album, “Play the Villain.” Following her sold-out debut at Vic’s in December, Smith returned with an intimate yet electrifying show that gave fans an unforgettable glimpse into her artistry and journey.

“Play the Villain” is a deeply personal album born from heartbreak and resilience. Produced by Frankie Moreno and mixed by renowned engineer Pat Thrall, the album represents a collaboration of exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. Smith captivated the crowd with backstories to her songs, revealing how they stemmed from relationships gone awry but ultimately shaped who she is today. While on an airplane awaiting takeoff, she excitedly contacted Moreno to arrange a meeting for feedback on her first song, “Everybody Loves Me.” Intrigued, Moreno asked, “Who’s producing this?” That conversation sparked a creative partnership, culminating in a fully orchestrated arrangement and, eventually, the creation of the entire album. Smith shared with the audience that creating this album was a cathartic experience, helping her process past challenges and emerge stronger.

One of the evening’s highlights was “Everybody Loves Me,” a track with a rock vibe that is both playful and boldly defiant—a perfect breakup anthem to seal the deal. Smith alluded to the track’s sharp edge during the live performance, leaving the audience leaning in for more. On the recorded version, however, the song’s glorious finale delivers this sentiment in full force, making it a standout moment on the album. With its polished production and clever lyricism, “Everybody Loves Me” delivers a dynamic sound that bridges modern rock and pop sensibilities, leaving listeners hooked.

The evening at Vic’s featured an intimate trio: Smith’s powerhouse vocals, Moreno’s masterful piano playing, and rhythmic beats provided by Moreno’s son, Giovanni. Together, they created a magical atmosphere, allowing the raw emotion of Smith’s songs to shine. A standout moment was her performance of “Demons,” a whimsical yet moving story about discovering a love triangle in the United Kingdom at age 21. During intermission, fans eagerly lined up to purchase her debut CD, a testament to the deep connection she forged with the audience.

For the second half of the show, Smith was joined by acclaimed pianist David Loeb, a professor of music and director of jazz studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, for breathtaking renditions of classics like Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” and Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg’s “Over the Rainbow.” Her soulful interpretations left the room spellbound, culminating in a well-deserved standing ovation.

Smith’s triumphant night at Vic’s proved she’s not just a Broadway star but a true storyteller who bares her soul with every note. With her undeniable talent and captivating artistry, we look forward to seeing her songs, like “Everybody Loves Me,” climb the charts. Don’t miss her next performance—it’s an experience you won’t forget. Be sure to grab her CD; it’s a treasure you’ll be glad to own. Her album “Play the Villain” is also available on Spotify and iTunes, bringing her incredible music to fans worldwide.