Grandson brings the revolution to Brooklyn on the INERTIA headlining tour at Warsaw, NYC | 11/07/25 | Photos & Review

November 21, 2025 Leave a comment

New Jersey punk rap duo HO99O9 opened the night, bringing intense, hardcore vibes to the stage. The self-identified “Death Kult Mutant Freax” are currently supporting their third album, Tomorrow We Escape. I found myself stuck in the “stank face” for their entire set, impressed with their sick vocals and blend of metal, electronic, and rock. This performance was my first impression of the band, and they quickly made a fan out of me. 

Just a few minutes before grandson’s performance, actor and comedian Walter Masterson made a surprise appearance for a quick comedy routine about recent local politics, highlighting the controversy over the NYC mayoral election earlier in the week. While HO99OR set the mood for the music, Masterson set the tone for the political motivation. 

Canadian rockstar, activist, and overall badass grandson brought his headlining tour to Brooklyn in November, marking his return to New York City as an independent artist for the first time. Supporting his third studio album, INERTIA, the “Blood // Water” singer delivered an electric performance showcasing his dynamic discography and bringing his signature activism-meets-music energy to a crowd prepared to shout by his side. 

Even in my pre-show setlist snooping (Yes, I’m one of those people), I didn’t realize that grandson would bless fans with a performance of INERTIA in its entirety! This went undetected as he intertwined his previous work between his newer songs, creating a perfect blend for longtime “grandkids” and newcomers alike. 

The first time I listened to the new album, I had my pick for the opening song of his tour… I was over the moon to find out that I had manifested the absolute banger that is “AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY ROBOT” as the first song of the night (if this didn’t set the tone for the rest of the night, I don’t know what would). This track had fans screaming at the top of their lungs for song after song; it was only fitting that he kicked things off with a bang!

I particularly enjoyed the back-to-back songs I call the “!!!” portion of the set, performing “Oh no!!!” and “We Did It!!!” one after another, tying his final modern tragedy ep in with his debut album, Death of an Optimist (2020). He also pulled from his most powerful earlier tunes, incorporating a sick back-to-back-to-back performance of “Darkside,” “Overdose,” and “6:00” just after “Stigmata,” a lineup so legendary that it would send long-time fans into a head-banging frenzy. 

Performing the entirety of INERTIA, grandson naturally played all my album favorites (and everyone else’s, of course), nailing the heightened energy for tracks like “YOU MADE ME THIS WAY” and “PULL THE TRIGGER” that I envisioned while bopping my head to the songs on my way to the show. While I love the album front to back, the live show gave me a whole new appreciation for one track in particular… 

Since the initial announcement of the headlining shows, the INERTIA tour underwent a lineup change. English punk rap duo Bob Vylan were originally set to open the night, but had their visas revoked by the U.S. after political statements made at the 2025 Glastonbury Festival about the IDF. The irony was not lost on fans, who not only share similar political ideologies but also value civil participation in government and continue to stand up for what they believe in.

Grandson played a chilling recording of Bob Vylan’s frontman, which played during “WHO’S THE ENEMY?,” a song they feature on, explaining the reason behind their absence in America. Ironically, they can’t cross the pond to perform on a song about taking a knee in the face of injustice. Grandson took a step back from the spotlight and let Bobby Vylan’s moving words take center stage:

“Our access to the country has been restricted, and our visas have been revoked […] all because we dare to speak up for the people of Palestine. And we urge each and every single person that is in the audience tonight to do the same thing. Let your government know that you do not stand by their actions…”

The room felt heavy, the room felt upset… and if nothing else would encourage a crowd of people to take action, I don’t know what would. 

Following the latest trend in tour setlists, the 17th song of the night switches from date to date, something similar to the “8-ball” song concept. grandson shared that his chosen song for Brooklyn would be for the longtime fans, surprising the audience with his single “Fallin (Temptation)” from his 2019 a modern tragedy vol. 2. In my mind, it feels like just yesterday that grandson announced that EP, so I may or may not have lost my marbles at this one (just kidding, they’re gone). 

Amid all the headbanging and mosh pits, the most memorable moment of the night was the slower side. I held back tears throughout the entire set, but the one song that I knew would break me finally did: For just one song, grandson sang on an acoustic guitar with just a spotlight, bringing to the stage his beautifully heart-wrenching song, “Heather.” It brought me back to the first time I heard the I Love You, I’m Trying (2023) track, staring at the lyrics in awe. Dedicated to a fan who took her own life, this is grandson’s letter to her and a message to his fan base: no matter how tough times get, you will always have a friend in him and his music, showing his deep appreciation for everyone in the audience, or anyone who’s ever played a track of his in their headphones. 

“This is dedicated / If you put me on your playlist / If you showed up to the stages / If I never get to say this / I’m proud of you”

The set ended with the songs that started it all: “Blood // Water.” This iconic 2018 single is what put grandson on so many fans’ radars ( it was certainly what hooked me on his music when I first heard it that same year). Also from a modern tragedy vol. 1, the night ended with the high-powered song “Stick Up,” as fans pushed their last bit of energy into one final mosh pit. I stood next to a couple who screamed the lyrics at one another with such passion, losing one another briefly to the circle pit… I couldn’t help but look at them and smile. Everyone was so alive!

If one thing’s for sure, this was a packed room filled with like-minded people – In politics, in music, in walks of life. Sometimes it’s relieving to be in a space with others and leave your worries at the door. 

In over a decade of attending concerts, I cannot say that there is a single artist who evokes more emotion in me than grandson does. He is not only a compelling and talented singer and musician, but also a genuine human being who stands up for what he believes in and gives others the strength to persevere, even in the toughest times. 

Like many others, his music has been by my side through the best times and the worst times as I graduated from high school, lived through the pandemic, and navigate adulthood. I am forever grateful for his fanbase, who are always willing to make new friends in line at the venue, or leave a positive comment on social media, and to grandson for keeping the revolution alive and kicking.

Grandson’s Warsaw, Brooklyn, NY, 11/07/25 Setlist:

  1. AUTONOMOUS DELIVER ROBOT
  2. BURY YOU
  3. We Did It!!!
  4. Oh No!!!
  5. BELLS OF WAR
  6. Stigmata
  7. GOD IS AN ANIMAL
  8. PULL THE TRIGGER
  9. Darkside
  10. Overdose
  11. 6:00
  12. LITTLE WHITE LIES
  13. SELF IMMOLATION
  14. Masters of War (Bob Dylan cover)
  15. BRAINROT
  16. WHO’S THE ENEMY
  17. Fallin (Temptation)
  18. Heather
  19. Drones
  20. YOU MADE ME THIS WAY
  21. Blood // Water

Photos & Review by Emily McCormack

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As It Is makes their triumphant return to New Jersey’s House of Independents |11/9/25 | Photos & Review

November 20, 2025 Leave a comment

For those of us who felt an As It Is-shaped hole in the scene when they announced their hiatus last year, we have never been more back. The British-American pop-punkers are currently on the road for their first United States headliner in over six years to commemorate their return and the 10th anniversary of their debut album Never Happy Ever After. On November 9th, I had the awesome opportunity to catch the band at House of Independents in Asbury Park, New Jersey for a very special show (that also happened to be on my birthday!).

Cherie Amour was the first band of the night and one that I have been dying to see live for a few years now. The energy during their set was absolutely electric. From frontman Trey Miller’s vibrant stage presence to their infectious songs, there wasn’t a soul in that venue who wasn’t moving whether they knew the band or not. 

 

 Bearings took the stage next fresh off the release of their most recent full-length album Comfort Company, which released two days prior. The Ottawa-based group delivered a high-energy set that was a fun mix of older fan favorites and tracks from the new record. I love catching these guys live and it was exciting to hear some of the newer songs, especially “Water Your Flowers” and “Float Away.” 

 

If I was to sit here and say I didn’t tear up a little bit once As It Is got onstage and opened with “Speak Soft,” I’d be the biggest liar. I’ve been listening to the band since 2017, but had never gotten to catch them live until now. They absolutely exploded with energy once their set began and you could tell just how much the crowd and the band had been anticipating this moment. 

The first half of their set was a full play through of Never Happy Ever After. “Dial Tones,” “Sorry” and “Cheap Shots and Setbacks” were some clear standouts of the night. It was awesome to watch everyone come together to celebrate a 10 year old album like it had been released yesterday. 

The second half of their set compiled songs from the rest of their discography, including their emotional new single “Lose Yourself & Find Your Way.” Before they played this one, frontman Patty Walters confirmed that new music was being worked on and the band’s fifth album would be released sometime next year. 

I was most excited to hear tracks from their 2017 album “okay.” and I think somehow the band sensed that. After “Patchwork Love,” Walters announced to the crowd that they were about to play a song that they haven’t yet on the tour and one that they thought “New Jersey would go crazy for.” I, in fact, went crazy because the song in question was “Hey Rachel,” which is my all-time favorite of theirs. It was so fun and special to hear this song live and I can confirm that New Jersey also went crazy for it too. 

The night ended with “The Stigma (Boys Don’t Cry)” and you could feel everyone in the room trying to hold onto the moment for as long as they could. This show was extra special for so many reasons. Not only was it a successful return back to the east coast for As It Is, but it was a full on celebration of their art and the community they’ve built surrounding it. Not to mention spending your 22nd birthday photographing one of your favorite bands since your teenage years is pretty cool, too. 

Review & Photography by Amber Bintliff

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Cage The Elephant’s electric performance at Night One at the Capitol Theatre, NY | 10/28/25 | Photos & Review

November 19, 2025 Leave a comment

The last time alternative-indie rockstars Cage The Elephant performed in the New York/New Jersey area on the band’s 2024 “Neon Pill” headlining tour, frontman and broken boy himself Matt Shultz, unfortunately, performed with a broken foot for the majority of the tour. Nonetheless, he did nothing short of putting on an epic performance, but it was now time for NY/NJ to see Shultz at his fullest potential. 

On this night, we quickly learned that his “fullest potential” was non-stop energy and enthusiasm, all while his top-tier, studio-sounding vocals bounced throughout the venue. This was not only true for Shultz, but for the powerful musicians behind him in bassist Daniel Tichenor, guitarist Nick Bockrath, drummer Jared Champion, keyboardist Matthan Minster, and, of course, Matt Shultz’s brother and partner in crime, Brad Shultz, on guitar.

Cage The Elephant kicked off the incredible night with a badass opener, “Broken Boy,” which is not only one of my favorite songs from Social Cues (2019) but is an unforgettable, fun tone-setter for the entire performance.

One of the best aspects of their set was how they incorporated songs throughout their impressive two-decade discography, with tracks as early as “Back Against The Wall” and “Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked” from their debut self-titled album (2006), and “Sabertooth Tiger” and “Shake Me Down” from Thank You, Happy Birthday (2011), and as recent as “Ready To Let Go” and “House of Glass” from Social Cues (2019) and “Good Time,” “Skin and Bones” and the title track from Neon Pill (2024).

I was pleased to see that even after all these years, Cage never neglects their fan favorites, continuing to perform standout hits like “Come A Little Closer,” “Cry Baby,” “Spiderhead,” and “Cigarette Daydreams,” which got an impromptu “Sweet Home Alabama” introduction.

A personal highlight of the set was their performance of “Cold Cold Cold,” a song that is not only my favorite Cage The Elephant track, but easily my favorite song of all time (and I listen to a lot of music, so this is saying something). I am glad that this song has made its mark on their setlist, and I’ve had the pleasure of seeing it live before… It makes me tear up nearly every time. There is something in this song that I live and breathe for, and for that, I am ever so appreciative.

The only bummer? The band did not perform some of their staple songs like “In One Ear” (which New Jersey luckily did hear in 2024), and the most devastating was the loss of their show closer, “Teeth.” I really came to appreciate the song after hearing it close the set a few years back, but the other 21 outstanding songs certainly made up for this loss!

The most important takeaway: Cage The Elephant is the real deal. From starting note to final encore, the boys from Kentucky performed an outstanding, dynamic set, ranging from their earlier songs to their latest singles, and everything in between. Their energy radiated from the stage to the back of the venue, with newer fans, seasoned fans, and boyfriends dragged to the show alike, enjoying the songs Cage brought to the Capitol Theatre.

Before Cage’s performance, emerging indie duo hey, nothing took the stage. Composed of Atlanta-based musicians Tyler Mabry and Harlow Phillips, the charismatic best friend duo was nothing short of a breath of fresh air, bringing innovative emo-meets-folk tunes to the stage and true personality to a brand-new audience. I felt like being let into a fun friend group through their witty banter, and it was easy to tell how all the members were comfortable sharing the space. 

The band showcased their personalities through and through, moving around on stage with smiles and hilariously introducing their next songs. One of my favorite intros for their song “Waiting Room,” where Harlow shared that the track is about “the time they took away Tyler’s appendix because he’s too damn sexy.” (To which the crowd promptly gave them a “woo!”). 

Hey, nothing performed a memorable, dynamic set, everything from the more upbeat tracks like “Sick Dogs,” “The Sink,” and “Hitchhiking” to the slower side in “Maine,” and their latest standout single, “Seeing You.”

Cage The Elephant’s The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY 10/28/25 Setlist:

  1. Broken Boy
  2. Cry Baby
  3. Spiderhead
  4. Too Late To Say Goodbye
  5. Good Time
  6. Cold Cold Cold
  7. Ready To Let Go
  8. Neon Pill
  9. Social Cues
  10. Halo
  11. Mess Around 
  12. Trouble
  13. Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked
  14. Skin and Bones
  15. Telescope
  16. House of Glass
  17. Sabertooth Tiger
  18. Back Against The Wall
  19. Shake Me Down
  20. Cigarette Daydreams
  21. Come A Little Closer

Photos & Review by Emily McCormack

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Grayscale kept the Wellmont Theater alive with breathtaking performance | 9/12/25 | Photos & Review

September 26, 2025 Leave a comment

Often dubbed one of my personal favorite things to come out of Philadelphia, Grayscale have been a riveting force in the alt-rock scene since their formation in 2016. Consisting Collin Walsh, Andrew Kyne, Dallas Molster and Nick Veno, the four-piece released their emotionally compelling fourth studio album The Hart in January. The band previously hit the road this year for an Australian headline tour and as support for Mayday Parade’s Cheers For 20 Years Tour in the spring. 

Now, Grayscale joins Our Last Night for The Final Tour across North America alongside Wind Walkers. As someone who has been listening to Grayscale since high school and went to college 10 minutes from the Wellmont Theater, seeing the band so close to home was everything I could’ve ever dreamed of. 

The night kicked off with Wind Walkers, a vibrant post-hardcore and alternative metal band from central Massachusetts. I’ve been casually listening to the band for a little over a year now, but their live energy blew me away. “Drowning Hymns” and “Bodybag” are two of my favorite tracks from Wind Walkers and hearing them live elevated them in a way I can’t even describe. The band was a lot of fun to watch on stage and I’m excited for their upcoming EP I Don’t Belong Here. 

Grayscale followed shortly after and, as always, delivered a killer set. Opening with “Kept Me Alive,” the Philly rockers showed the crowd that they were in for one hell of a 45 minutes. I’ve been lucky enough to catch the group on tour twice now and Walsh’s vocals have immediately sent chills down my spine the second he picks up the mic both times. His voice especially shines through on “Through the Landslide” and “Talking In My Sleep,” showcasing his incredible range. 

The first older song of the night was “Dirty Bombs,” a fun track from their 2021 album UMBRA. This one in particular was a highlight of this night for me. Getting to sing along to every word and look around to see others in the crowd doing the same felt so healing. Grayscale also played “Fever Dream” from their 2017 debut album “Adornment.” This song is always a treat live, especially when you hear how loud the audience gets at the “So sit down, shut off / I don’t know how I let you lead so long” part. 

After listening to Grayscale for almost 8 years, finally getting to hear one of my favorite songs of theirs truly took the cake for the best part of this night. When I saw my first Grayscale show at The Stone Pony Summer Stage back in May, they had skipped over “In Violet” on the setlist for a special surprise performance of “Mum II.” Being able to finally hear this one live after so many years was a beautiful experience and I even found myself in one of the few mosh pits during their set for it. I’m not kidding when I say that this song was on almost every single Spotify playlist I made from the ages of 14 to 18 (and still is scattered amongst a few I listen to daily). 

Between songs, Walsh took the time to make some funny comments and express his gratitude to Our Last Night for taking the band on this tour. My personal favorite moment was when he asked the crowd if Montclair was Jets or Giants territory before exclaiming that it doesn’t matter and “Go Birds!” in honor of their home team the Eagles. He also acknowledged how they’re a bit out of place on the lineup of heavier artists, to which their solution was to perform an epic cover of Van Halen’s “Panama.” 

They ended their portion of the night with the closing track and lead single from The Hart, “Not Afraid To Die.” This song live is so special for so many reasons. From its beautifully motivating message to its cinematic production, Grayscale put their heart and soul into this track and it shows every time they perform it. “Not Afraid To Die” still hits so hard even two years after its release and remains as a dazzling finale to their live shows. 

While I’m not as familiar with or as big of a fan of Our Last Night, their energy on stage blew me away. The post-hardcore band first popped into the scene in 2004 and has since built a massive discography that blends re-imagined covers of popular songs and their own stellar original music. They kicked off their set with a cover of Gracie Abrams’ “That’s So True” and I could feel the entirety of the Wellmont Theater come alive for the band. 

While the band announced they’d be halting touring to spend more time with their families and focus on new music, Our Last Night presented an energetic and bittersweet final show in New Jersey on the 12th. The Final Tour wraps up on Friday, September 26th in Nashville, TN at Ryman Auditorium.

Review & Photography by Amber Bintliff

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Silversun Pickups’ epic return to The Wellmont Theater, New Jersey 8/23/25 | Photos & Review

September 7, 2025 Leave a comment

American rock band Silversun Pickups continue to treat New Jersey well. Stopping by what seems to be their favorite venue, the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ, remains a staple on their headlining tours!

While this tour has several different openers throughout its four-month run, NJ was lucky enough to be blessed with the rock throwbacks from Kentucky, Girl Tones!

Sister-duo Kenzie and Laila served as an incredible opener to the night. My introduction to them was their angst-ridden single “Blame,” which served as SiriusXM’s Alt Nation “Impact Track” this summer. Excited to see them for months, the pair certainly did not disappoint!

This performance was Silversun Pickups’ fifth show at The Wellmont Theater, last performing in September 2024 in support of their sixth studio album, Physical Thrills (2022). Though they haven’t released a new project since, the Los Angeles group is still killing it on tour, and playing fan favorites from throughout their impressive 25-year discography. 

The alternative-rock band paid homage to the late legend Ozzy Osbourne with a “Crazy Train” introduction to their hit “Panic Switch,” getting an emotional cheer from the front to the back of the house. 

I got a chuckle out of frontman Brian Aubert’s story about meeting a frog on the streets of Montclair, who asked to live in his throat for warmth before turning into a spider that altered his voice. In short, he shared that although his voice wasn’t in the best shape, there was no way he would cancel his performance at the Wellmont.

It’s always fun to see the songs I’ve known for years, performed live on stage, especially hits like “Substitution” and “Lazy Eye!” Even after the singer explained that his voice may not have been up to his standards, I kept thinking to myself: Wow, they sound even better live than in the studio!

The members of Silversun Pickups are true talents, with dynamic vocals, incredible instrumentals, and lively stage presence. This band is the real deal. 

Here’s to hoping SSPU will return to The Wellmont in another three years (or, perhaps, even sooner!) 

Silversun Pickups’ The Wellmont Theater, Montclair, NJ 8/23/2025 Setlist:

  1. Well Thought Out Twinkles
  2. It Doesn’t Matter Why
  3. Panic Switch
  4. Scared Together
  5. Little Lover’s So Polite
  6. Alone on a Hill
  7. Kissing Families
  8. Don’t Know Yet
  9. Three Seed
  10. Substitution
  11. Circadian Rhythm (Last Dance)
  12. Dots and Dashes (Enough Already)
  13. Empty Nest
  14. Creation Lake (The Movies cover)
  15. Lazy Eye

Photos & Review by Emily McCormack

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Idobi Radio’s Summer School Tour deserves straight As for sophomore year at Starland Ballroom | Photos & Review

September 7, 2025 Leave a comment

With their sophomore class featuring seven of the most dazzling rising acts in alternative rock, Idobi Radio’s Summer School Tour rocked New Jersey’s Starland Ballroom on August 8th. The electric lineup consisted of Huddy, If Not For Me, Arrows in Action, Beauty School Dropout, Taylor Acorn, Charlotte Sands and Rain City Drive, with each act delivering an unforgettable set that deserved straight As across the board. 

Huddy kicked off the night with “Vendetta,” the lead single from his soon-to-be-announced second record. The Los Angeles based up-and-comer warmed up the crowd with an undeniable stage presence and a setlist packed with infectious anthems. Huddy closed out his opening slot with “Cyanide,” an aggressively explosive track that features Palaye Royale and showcases his raw, invigorating live energy.

Huddy

 If Not For Me were up next and absolutely lit up Starland Ballroom from the first few seconds of their set until the very end. The Pennsylvania-born metalcore group were the heaviest of the night and gave New Jersey a lesson in guttural screams, intense mosh pits and neverending crowdsurfers. The four piece played some of their most popular heavy-hitters from their debut record Everything You Wanted, including “No Thanks To You,” “Blameless” and “Feel Me Now.”

If it wasn’t already clear, If Not For Me are one of the most electric and exciting new acts in metalcore. Frontman Patrick Glover has a commanding presence on stage that’s unlike any other, with his high-energy kicks, stellar vocals and emotionally-resonant screams that echo through every set of ears in the venue. The band’s effort to connect with the crowd paired with their inescapable passion for performing highlighted their intense energy that made If Not For Me a clear stand-out of the night. 

If Not For Me

Arrows in Action ran on stage in matching tracksuits as they threw inflatable basketballs into the crowd and the “Space Jam” theme song blared through the speakers. They kicked off their set with a mash-up of two of their recent singles, “Feel It Again” and “Light Like You,” from their upcoming sophomore record I Think I’ve Been Here Before that releases later this month. The pop rock trio delivered a fun, energetic performance of their new music and older fan favorites from their debut album Built To Last, including “Uncomfortably Numb” and “Over It.” Their breezy, interactive performance of “Head in the Clouds” was also one of the highlights of their whimsical and impactful set.

Arrows In Action

BEAUTY SCHOOL DROPOUT delivered a high-energy set complete with their unrelenting, dynamic punk spirit. Opening with “FEVER,” the energy in the crowd completely shifted into a chaotic, thrilling atmosphere that ate up every second of their performance. This stayed consistent as they made their way through their 7 song setlist, before eventually finishing with “FIGHT MODE” as Starland Ballroom obeyed the lyrics and opened a mosh pit as if it was a cyclone. 

BEAUTY SCHOOL DROPOUT

Taylor Acorn put on one “Hell Of A Show,” as she opened her portion of the night with a dynamic performance of the track from her debut effort Survival In Motion. Arguably standing as one of pop-punk’s most interesting modern acts, Acorn delivered a set full of cathartic singalongs, infectious guitar riffs and vengeful anthems. “Goodbye, Good Riddance” and “Final Nail” saw the singer at her most vibrant and electric as the audience screamed back every word. 

Taylor Acorn

Charlotte Sands delivered the second to last performance of the night with her iconic bright blue hair and powerful vocals. Her stage presence was undoubtedly captivating and enticing. Her effortless ability to command the stage beneath her was undeniable from the moment she stepped on stage. Her set definitely rivaled If Not For Me’s for most crowdsurfers of the evening as it felt like every second someone was up in the air hurdling towards the barricade, especially during the heavy rendition of her most popular hit “Dress.” Sands concluded her set with her ‘brat-rock summer’ anthem “HUSH” that left the crowd in awe of her vigor and talent. 

Charlotte Sands

I knew Starland Ballroom was in for a treat the second I found out Rain City Drive would be headlining the evening. Skyrocketing to the forefront of the scene with their 2024 record Things Are Different Now, the group delivered a stunning display of their alt-rock grit and vulnerable lyricism with this heavy-hitting set. “Concrete Closure” and “Frozen” got the crowd relentlessly moving, from huge circle pits to multiple crowdsurfers having the time of their lives. It was the perfect end to the night and allowed the crowd one last hurrah before the school bell rang for dismissal. 

Rain City Drive

If I was the one grading this year’s sophomore class, everyone would receive a perfect report card. Idobi Radio’s Summer School Tour stands as a reminder of why it’s so important to foster community within the scene and uplift its most vibrant rising acts. Even long after Rain City Drive had concluded their set, multiple bands were hanging out at their merch tables chatting with fans, signing albums and setlists and thanking everyone for coming out. The touring festival’s sophomore year was a complete success and I’m super excited to see what’s in store for next year’s junior class.

Review & Photography by Amber Bintliff

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Mayday Parade Live 6/1/25 The Strand Ballroom and Theatre, Providence RI | Photos + Review

June 23, 2025 Leave a comment

Mayday Parade marched their Three Cheers for 20 Years tour into Providence, RI on Sunday June 1st, for a night that can only best be described as a victory lap for the pop punk veterans. The band’s set worked double-duty for the evening, playing out as both a nostalgia-fueled anniversary trip and a showcase for their latest LP Sweet. Openers Like Roses, Grayscale and Microwave warmed everyone up for the main event effectively, seamlessly blending shades of emo, pop punk and alternative rock together and fitting perfectly with the headliner’s tone I was particularly impressed by Like Roses’ performance, one which was filled with an earnest vitality, not often seen by a first act on a bill. Yet once a quarter past 9 rolled around and Mayday Parade took the stage, the energy in The Strand Ballroom skyrocketed to new heights. From that moment on, there was rarely a moment where you wouldn’t hear the audience shouting and screaming back every lyric to Derek Sanders and Co., through the uplifting opener of “By The Way”, the heartstring-pulling fan-favorite ballad “Miserable at Best”, the surprisingly furious emo anthem “One of Them will Destroy the Other”, and everything else in between. While the set may have been kicked off with a throwback interview from nearly two decades back, it’s clear from the consistent connection between band and crowd that Mayday Parade has truly grown up with their audience, well beyond the scope of many of their mid-2000s Warped Tour contemporaries. If the response to Sunday’s celebration at The Strand is any indicator to the band’s lasting impression on the pop punk scene, you can certainly expect many others to keep on belting out every word at Mayday Parade shows for another 20 years (and beyond). Review courtesy of Brent McCann

Like Roses

Microwave
Grayscale
Mayday Parade
Photography courtesy of Amanda Spring

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Joywave bring ‘Permanent Pleasure’ to New Jersey’s White Eagle Hall 5/21/25 | photos & review

May 31, 2025 Leave a comment

If you’re looking for a new “Obsession,” look no further than a Joywave show. The Rochester, New York indie rock superstars brought their Here To Perform… Spring 2025 Tour to New Jersey’s White Eagle Hall on May 21st with support from little image. 

The penultimate show of this tour began with a phenomenal opening performance from pop-rock trio little image. They were a fun start to the evening and I ended up completely falling in love with their music and pure talent. The band’s drummer, Troy Bruner, is admittedly the most fun to watch on stage. I lost count of how many times he stood on top of his drum kit to get the crowd hyped during and in between songs. 

Shortly after little image left the stage, fans began anxiously awaiting Joywave as soon as they unveiled the giant cat that’s featured on the cover of their latest record, Permanent Pleasure. This little guy is visually one of the best parts of the show and gets a 10/10 for being such a cute addition to their set design (especially when he starts spinning around!).

If there’s one thing Joywave knows how to do, it’s perform. Seriously, there was not a second of this show where my eyes weren’t glued to the men in matching blue silk pajamas that stood before me. Frontman Daniel Armbruster is truly a natural talent who could probably give the performance of a lifetime just about anywhere. The few moments I was released from this trance allowed me to take in the pure joy from those who surrounded me. Everyone in the crowd was singing and dancing like this show was the only thing that mattered in the world at that point–and ever would. 

Their setlist blended a mix of songs from Permanent Pleasure, along with some gems from the earlier parts of their discography. “Hate To Be a Bother,” “Funny Thing About Opinions,” and “Traveling at the Speed of Light” are some Joywave songs I hope are never retired from their time in the setlist spotlight. 

The night ended with the classic double “Destruction,” a track off the band’s 2015 record How Do You Feel Now? that has pretty much taken on a life of its own. Armbruster joked about how they played the song 7 times in a row the last time the band played in New Jersey, confusing an entire crowd of people and probably making them feel like they were going insane. Unfortunately, the state of New Jersey was not blessed with “Destruction” 7 times over this time around, but twice was just as fun. 

I think I’m at the point in my life where I can safely say that I’ll never miss a Joywave show whenever they’re in town. This night at White Eagle Hall was yet another reminder of how much the band enjoys what they do and how dedicated they are to giving their fans a show they’ll remember for a long time. Their shows are a treat, from the immaculate stage presence, good music, and comedian-level jokes scattered throughout the set, Joywave is a band you’ll want to see live at least once in your life.

Photos & Review by Amber Bintliff

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The Plot In You Sell Out Anaheim On their North American Tour | 2-22-25 | Feat. Holding Absence, Boundaries, & Acres | Photos + Review

March 5, 2025 Leave a comment

For the past nine years, The Plot In You has been a steadfast band in my journey as a photographer. I still vividly remember the electrifying night July of 2016 when I captured them performing at the legendary Chain Reaction. It was one of my first experiences shooting in manual mode, armed with my dad’s then-new Canon Rebel T5 camera. Each time I see and photograph The Plot In You, I’m transported back to that moment, a powerful blend of excitement and nostalgia. Their evolution over the years mirrors my own growth in photography, making every encounter with them feel even more special. On their recent North American Tour, The Plot In You assembled an impressive lineup featuring Holding Absence, Boundaries, and Acres, creating a captivating and heavy-hitting experience right from the start. The energy in the venue was palpable, with the crowd immersed in the raw power of the performances. From the first note to the final encore, the show was nothing short of extraordinary. I can hardly wait to share all the unforgettable moments from this incredible night with you.

Acres, the electrifying band from Portsmouth, England, took to the stage with an explosive energy that set the tone for the night. They kicked off their performance with “A Different Shade of Misery,” a groove-heavy metalcore anthem where the intricate riffing of guitarists Ash Scott and Alex Freeman was nothing short of mesmerizing. The crowd vibed to the powerful rhythms that reverberated through the venue, showcasing their undeniable talent. The second song, “Lost,” shifted gears, revealing a raw post-hardcore intensity. With his commanding presence, lead vocalist Ben Lumber poured his heart into every note, effortlessly blending melodic singing with savage screams that pierced through the music, leaving the audience in awe of his vocal prowess. Next came “Into Flames,” a track bursting with fiery passion and infectious pop-punk energy. Drummer Parker Adsit provided an exhilarating backdrop with his punchy, dynamic rhythms, amplifying the song’s intensity and leaving listeners craving more. Throughout their set, Acres showcased a total of six tracks, including their latest offering, “Bloodlust.” This innovative electronic metalcore piece was a thrilling exploration of new sounds, expertly blurring the lines between genres and highlighting the band’s creative evolution. Excitement filled the air as they announced their upcoming album, “The Host,” set to drop in May. I can’t wait to experience the full spectrum of their artistry when the remaining tracks are unveiled. Acres is undeniably exceptional, and if they continue on this path, I foresee their popularity soaring to new heights.

SETLIST

  1. A Different Shade of Misery
  2. Lost
  3. Into Flames
  4. Nothing.
  5. Bloodlust
  6. Leave You To Rot

Next to the stage, Boundaries, hailing from Hartford, CT, transformed the area into a whirlwind of emotion and sound with their explosive opener, “Turning Hate Into Rage.” Their fusion of melodic hardcore and metalcore was not just heard; it was felt deep within every fiber of your being. The moment the piercing guitar tones from the incredible duo of Cody DelVecchio and Cory Emond erupted, I was completely captivated, swept up in the sheer force of their artistry. The band’s energy was off the charts as they leaped around the stage, creating an electric atmosphere that was impossible to ignore. Vocalist Matthew McDougal commanded the crowd with a magnetic and intense authority. His screams propelled the music forward, infusing it with an urgency that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. When they launched into their second track, “My Body Is A Cage,” the dynamic shifted to a heavier, doom-laden metalcore sound. The rapid, syncopated beats from drummer Tim Sullivan felt like a relentless heartbeat, driving the intensity even further. Their third song, “Darkness Shared,” immersed us deeper into a haunting metalcore realm, allowing bassist Nathan Calcagno’s deep grooves to resonate powerfully within the venue. His bass lines not only anchored the music but also intertwined beautifully with his clean vocals, creating a compelling contrast that enriched the overall experience. In total, Boundaries unleashed nine tracks during their set, delivering the most intense performance of the night. They skillfully balanced mesmerizing melodic moments with overwhelming bursts of heaviness, leaving the audience in awe. After eagerly anticipating the chance to experience and capture their electrifying energy, I can confidently say they surpassed all my expectations. I can hardly contain my excitement at the thought of immortalizing their vivid and aggressive spirit through my photography again in the future.

SETLIST

  1. Turning Hate Into Rage
  2. My Body Is A Cage
  3. Darkness Divided
  4. Is Survived By
  5. Cursed to Remember
  6. I’d Rather Not Say
  7. A Pale Light Lingers
  8. Inhale The Grief
  9. Easily Erased

Up next on stage was the incredible band Holding Absence, straight out of Cardiff, Wales. This was my third electrifying encounter with the band, the last being in August 2022 when they opened for Silverstein and The Amity Affliction. They kicked off their set with the powerful track “Aching Longing,” immediately immersing the audience in the intense side of their mesmerizing post-hardcore sound. Vocalist Lucas Woodland captivated everyone with a performance that radiated passion and strength, his powerful voice echoing throughout the venue. Guitarist Scott Carey intensified the experience with his dynamic backing screams, and as they transitioned into “Gravity,” the thunderous drumming from touring drummer Scott Waters created a pulse that resonated with every heart in the room. Their third song, “Like A Shadow,” illustrated the band’s unique modern twist on emo, seamlessly blending elements of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and pop-punk. The infectious energy surged as bassist Benjamin Elliott laid down deep grooves that propelled the entire performance. With a riveting set of eight songs, the band set the crowd ablaze with excitement, inspiring crowdsurfers to joyfully leap over the barricade. One of the most memorable moments for me was hearing “Afterlife” again; it remains one of my all-time favorites. Holding Absence is an unmissable spectacle that leaves you craving more. Trust me, you don’t want to miss the chance to see them live—you will be utterly captivated!

SETLIST

  1. Aching Longing
  2. Gravity
  3. Like A Shadow
  4. Her Wings
  5. Nomoreroses
  6. A Crooked Melody
  7. Afterlife
  8. The Angel In The Marble

The Plot In You from Hancock County, OH took the stage by storm, bursting onto the scene with a dazzling display of confetti and their powerful opener, “Don’t Look Away.” Vocalist Landon Tewers delivered bone-rattling vocals that perfectly propelled this groove-heavy metalcore track. The energy only intensified with the follow-up, “Divide,” in which guitarist Josh Lewis Childress unleashed deep, resonant riffs, while bassist Ethan Yoder added a layer of syncopated bass that truly drives the song forward. Tewers showcased his remarkable versatility, effortlessly transitioning between haunting screams and smooth singing, creating a captivating listening experience. As the set continued, “Pretend” highlighted the band’s melodic prowess, introducing a pop-metal flair that was impossible to resist. Drummer Michael Cooper brought a crisp and vibrant energy to the percussion, elevating the track with his impeccable style. With a stunning production featuring elaborate lighting, The Plot In You prepared a monumental 15-song setlist, celebrating their journey from classics like 2015’s “Happiness In Self Destruction” to fresh cuts from their upcoming 2024 “Vol. 3 EP.” Hearing hits like “Feel Nothing” and “Forgotten” was truly a thrill, underscoring the band’s remarkable evolution over the years. Witnessing them sell out Anaheim once again felt like a triumphant homecoming. This tour was an unforgettable experience, especially with the incredible support from Holding Absence, Boundaries, and Acres. Don’t miss the chance to catch this powerful lineup; it was nothing short of spectacular!

SETLIST

  1. Don’t Look Away
  2. Divide
  3. Pretend
  4. Paradigm
  5. THE ONE YOU LOVED
  6. NOT JUST BREATHING
  7. Face Me
  8. Been Here Before
  9. Forgotten
  10. Spare Me
  11. All That I Can Give
  12. Closure
  13. Time Changes Everything
  14. Left Behind
  15. FEEL NOTHING (ENCORE)

The Plot In You | Holding Absence | Boundaries | Acres

Photos + Review courtesy of Jamie Kaufman | Instagram | Facebook | X

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Incubus w/ special guest Coheed and Cambria | PHOTOS & REVIEW

September 18, 2024 Leave a comment

September 6, 2024 | The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

What a way to start a show with the Hardrock Legends, Coheed and Cambria. They begin the night with their album title song, “ In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3,” to get the crowd in the mood for what is to come and I can say personally, it was the best way to kick it off, Claudio never disappoints with his energy. 

It was a beautiful, cool Friday night at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory, in Irving Texas. Coheed and Cambria played all their hits ranging from. “ Ten Speed (Of God’s Blood and Burial)”, “A Favor House Atlantic,” too, “A Disappearing Act,” “Shoulders,” and “The Liars Club,” from their 2022 album, Vaxis II: A Window of the Waking Mind. 

It wouldn’t be a Coheed and Cambria show if they didn’t end it with their most popular track, “Welcome Home,” from their 2005 album Good Apollo I’m Burning Star IV, Vol. 1 – From Fear Through the Eyes of Madness. Wow, what a mouthful! It was a great way to end their set cause it get the crowd pumped for the headliners… Incubus.

The stage has been set, lights have been cut and the sounds from the first song “Nice to know you,” kicks on and you can just feel that it was going to be some Morning Views indeed.

The energy the band put on the entire night of the set was just calming, relaxing, putting you in a state of pure bliss. Playing the album in its entirety was phenomenal, the crowd was grooving along with the band playing the songs, “Wish you were here,” “Just a phase,” “11 am,” and then the acoustic version of, “Blood on the Ground.’ Just beautiful.

As the night progressed it just got better and better, Brandon singing his heart and soul out with such passion shows how much he loves this music so much, Nicole Row playing an incredible bass line with such accuracy you just had to see it to believe it. Just wow! Mike with the iconic guitar riffs and a surprise at the end that I will fill you in on in just a bit. Gavin with such technical sounds from his turntable brought so much to the band. Last but not least, we cannot forget about Jose Pasillas and his cool smooth drum technique, one more time WOW!!

Incubus was nearing the end of the album Morning Views, with their songs, “Have you Ever,” “Are you in,” but then they mixed in Phil Colins popular song, “In The Air Tonight,” which brought the crowd alive once again, but it didn’t stop there, just for a little bit of a kick they played a Rhianna cover!!! It was awesome to see them play, “Umbrella”

Aqueous Transmisson, which got you locked in on Mike playing the Chinese instrument the Pipa and it was everything just everything. Such a beautiful song you can listen to it so many times that you will never tire of it, ever. As the album came to a close they stayed on stage and gave the crowd what they wanted, the hits from all the albums, from “Anna Molly,” “Karma,” Pardon Me,” too, “The Warmth,” “Vitamin,” “Dig,” and the classic, “Drive.” What a way to end the night Incubus giving it all and playing their hearts, it was a great evening, with some Morning Views.

Coverage courtesy of Angel Castillo

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