This past Tuesday, August 1st, The Backseat Lovers stopped in New Jersey to play at the Stone Pony Summer Stage. The picturesque outdoor venue, located right across the Asbury Park boardwalk, created the perfect setting for the Utah-born band to jam at their second-to-last show. The night was truly memorable, and an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.
Joshua Harmon from The Backseat Lovers, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Opening the night up was Bendigo Fletcher, an indie-folk band from Kentucky. Headed by lead singer Ryan Anderson, the band did not fail to build up the energy in the crowd of three-thousand. Anderson’s mix of screamy belts, harmonica playing, and guitar strumming set off rounds of applause and approving howls from the audience members. Towards the end of the opening set, Anderson brought out members of The Backseat Lovers to play a cover of “Certainty” by Big Thief.
Bendigo Fletcher, photographed by Sarah Hyun
The Backseat Lovers formed in 2018 in Provo, Utah, first with lead singer Joshua Harmon, guitarist Jonas Swanson, drummer Juice Welch, and later with bassist KJ Ward. The indie-rock / alternative band gained widespread recognition when their songs “Kilby Girl” and “Pool House” from their When We Were Friends album exploded on social media. They are now wrapping up their Waiting to Spill tour, which is celebrating the release of their latest album of the same name.
The buzz of excitement before the main act could be felt as people shifted on their toes in anticipation for “The Backseat Bozos” (as lead singer Joshua Harmon called it) to make their entrance. The pre-show playlist consisted of iconic jazz songs and Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which the entire crowd sang along to. Most came dressed in casual beach day clothes—shorts, tank tops, The Backseat Lovers merchandise, Converse.
The crowd at The Stone Pony Summer Stage, photographed by Sarah Hyun
The Backseat Lovers opened the night with a lengthy instrumental accompanied by an intense buildup, and followed with their iconic song “Pool House.” Joshua Harmon scaled the stage with breathtaking agility, nimbly moving his fingers across his telecaster’s neck and shaking his luscious hair to the beat. No one can deny that Harmon can sing. His vocals were identical to the studio recordings, if not better. The true passion he put into every song, inclusive of the growls, screams, extended belts, and even opera-like yodels, only highlighted how truly talented he is. The rest of the band did not fail to deliver—KJ with his impressive basslines, Juice with his body-rumbling drumming, and Jonas with his iconic guitar solos.
During the beginning of the set, Harmon said, “The air is just lovely here. Did any of you guys get to go swimming today? I went swimming today, it was really great actually.” A few screams and howls from the crowd. Towards the end, he stated, “In light of the full moon, my dear friend KJ would like to do a howl.” KJ followed with, “On the count of three, can you guys join me in a big old howl?,” and everyone participated. Every person there was having a great time, jumping and spinning and dancing, all whilst shouting lyrics like, “I miss the days when girls were scary, scarier than spiders.”
At the end of the show, Harmon threw his guitar dangerously high up into the air and caught it, triggering a roar of screams from the crowd. The encore was extremely high-energy, and after the show ended, the goodbyes were bittersweet. The Backseat Lovers previously played two nights at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City in June, and are sure to come back when they next tour.
As Rolling Loud Miami came and went, fans got to enjoy a host of performances by over 100 of hip hop’s best acts. Likewise, there were those unable to take part for various reasons. Notably, Lil Durk did not perform due to his recent hospitalization for dehydration. Likewise, Sheff G did not take part but due to his recent legal troubles. The troubled-but-talented Brooklyn native was to make his much-awaited return at Rolling Loud Miami after serving nearly two years behind bars for gun possession. However, the “We Getting Money” rapper got himself in hot water after he and close friend Sleepy Hallow were part of a large-scale gang indictment.
Winners Circle Entertainment/ Sleepy Hallow – Rolling Loud Miami 2021 (Show Recap)/Youtube
As for Sheff G in particular, the indictment accuses him of offering up money and expensive jewelry in exchange for the commission of violent acts. In one alleged incident, Sheff G organized a crew of three shooters, drove them to a crime scene, and then acted as the getaway driver.
“Sheff G became a prominent member of this gang and became central to our investigation,” said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. “Sheff G used a lot of the money that he earned to facilitate further gang activity. He encouraged gang members to participate in violent crimes.”
Sleepy Hallow Puts Sheff G on The Phone
While Sleepy Hallow was able to bail out and make his Rolling Loud dates, the latest charges were a major setback for Sheff G who was initially scheduled to be released sometime in June and had teased his return to the stage at Rolling Loud. In light of his close friend’s circumstances, Sleepy Hallow bridged the gap between Sheff G and the fans by putting the incarcerated rapper on the phone, to much fanfare from the crowd.
In the short clip, Sheff G gets the Rolling Loud crowd amped by telling them to “turn the f**ck up.” With the drill scene’s recent stagnation Sheff G’s presence woud’ve been a major boost for New York hip hop. The Brooklynite is one of the most talented young rappers from the new-age and is one of the key figures that helped spark the drill scene in New York.
Nas continues his prolific run with his 16th studio album, Magic 2. Since the release of Nasir in 2018 — his first under his Mass Appeal label — the legendary rapper has been on a resurgent run. That’s to say nothing of Nas’ status within hip hop. However, the last few years have seen the fabled rapper get the mainstream acknowledgment his career deserves, winning his first grammy-award in 2021 for King’s Disease.
Magic 2 is Nas’ 5th collaborative project with Hit-Boy in the last 3 years
Magic 2: Nas and Hit-Boy Continue to Create
In like manner, Magic 2 sees Nas’ continue his career victory lap. The 11-track album is another collaborative effort with now-frequent cohort Hit-Boy. This latest release is the duo’s fifth combined effort in the last 3 years, beginning with King’s Disease. Short and succinct, the album’s only two features — 50 Cent and 21 Savage — showcase Nas’ range in the current hip hop landscape.
Notably, burying the hatchet with a former rival and fellow Queens native in 50 Cent on “Office Hours.” The two rap legends last worked together in 2002, with Nas featuring on two songs on 50 Cent’s mixtape Guess Who’s Back? In like manner, Nas exchanges bars with one of contemporary rap’s hottest stars in 21 Savage on the album outro “One Mic, One Gun.” In effect demonstrating the versatility in cadences and flows during this latest Hit-Boy run.
All in all, the grammy-winning producer has been instrumental in Nas fortifying his legacy. Despite his icon status and classic albums, the Queensbridge native has maintained a reputation for not picking the best beats. Together with Hit-Boy Nas has gone a long way towards shedding the skin of being another older rapper. With a healthy mix of contemporary sounds and boom bap records Magic 2 sees Nas and Hit-Boy continue to create more well… Magic.
Benny The Butcher‘s Black Soprano Family imprint continues to flood the streets. This time, Buffalo native Rick Hyde takes aim with his latest single “Streets Ain’t The Same” in anticipation of his new album, LUPARA. Featuring Benny The Butcher and El Camino on the chorus, the record sees Rick & Benny go-back-and forth while recounting their rise and grind as hustlers. “‘Streets Ain’t The Same’ is self-explanatory in a sense,” explains Rick Hyde. “After the trials and tribulations and losses, it’s just difficult for things to return to normalcy. That’s where we were at on this record,” he continues. “I asked Benny to go back and forth with me and he agreed. We just started speaking our perspectives, no pens, or paper, just pure lyricism. That’s the joy of this record. Long live DJ Shay!”
Slated for an August 4 release, LUPARA will be Rick Hyde’s second BSF project. His 2021 debut, Plates 2, featured a mix of contemporary stars and underground legends the likes of Benny The Butcher, Westside Gunn, A$AP Ferg, G Herbo, Meyhem Lauren and Skyzoo with production from The Alchemist, Harry Fraud, Daringer and the late DJ Shay. Quickly following that up with 2022’s STIMA, Rick Hyde now prepares for the release of his third project in as many years.
Meanwhile, LUPARA will continue the run of a Black Soprano Family release every month of 2023. All in all, Benny and the BSF team continue to make their names heard. In like manner Head Honcho and Griselda mainstay Benny The Butcher continues to take helm of his own label imprint. Much like the blueprint set by Griselda, Benny’s artists are all of a similar street ilk, making for seamless transition into the BSF fold sonically, with Benny featuring in many of his artists songs and projects.
After teasing their return at Pharell’s Louis Vuitton Fashion Show, legendary rap brothers Pusha T and No Malice — known as Clipse — will continue their resurgence with a headlining performance at Genius’ IQ/BBQ. Presented in partnership with Infiniti, Paco Rabanne, Patron El Alto, and Paramount+ with Showtime’s The Chi, the all-day event takes place on August 19 at Knockdown Center in Queens, N.Y., and will feature live performances from some of the hottest names in hip-hop, including the platinum-selling duo.
In addition to the show, IQ/BBQ will feature experiences like the So Fresh, So Clean Shop from Paco Rabanne 1M, an art installation from Infinity featuring the new QX60, a VIP “Genius Lounge” presented by Patrón El Alto, and a Rap Cafeteriafilled with lyric-inspired dishes from local NYC food vendors – presented by Showtime Original Series, The Chi.
Clipse Making a Comeback
With this performance, The Clipse continue their teased reunion. After previewing their first joint-record in 14 years the Virginia-bred brothers have garnered fans attention with the teased record. Their last collab was the outro to Pusha T’s most recent album It’s Almost Dry, titled “I Pray for You.”
Moreover, since their days as The Clipse, the duo have been part of some of hip hop’s most iconic records. Notably, records like “Grindin’,” “Mr. Me Too,” and “What Happened to That Boy.” Since their last album — 2009’s Til The Casket Drops — Pusha T has embarked on a successful solo career that has resulted in several Grammy nominations and recognition as one of the best rappers ever. Meanwhile, No Malice left the music industry to become a pastor making sporadic feature appearances since, including an album cut on Ye’s 2019 release Jesus Is King.
Tickets for the Genius IQ/BBQ are free and are now available at dice.fm, while the event maintains a 21+ age restriction.
Max Schneider, the charismatic and multi-talented artist, set the stage on fire as he opened for Big Time Rush on June 9th at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, Long Island. With his infectious energy and undeniable talent, Max captivated the crowd from the moment he stepped foot on stage.
This highly anticipated show brought together fans who were eager to witness the magic unfold. As the sun set and the first notes reverberated through the air, it became evident that this night would be filled with unforgettable moments. The atmosphere was electric as fans anxiously awaited Max’s performance, knowing they were about to be treated to an extraordinary display of musical prowess and captivating stage presence.
Max Schneider, the versatile and dynamic artist, is making a name for himself with his magnetic blend of pop, R&B, and soul. Hailing from Manhattan, Max’s musical journey began at a young age, with songs like “Someday” from the Nickelodeon movie he starred in Rags. Since, he’s immersed himself in various genres and honing his craft as a singer and songwriter. With his undeniable talent and captivating stage presence, Max quickly gained attention and built a devoted fanbase.
His music is marked by infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and an innate ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level. With breakout hits like “Lights Down Low” and “Love Me Less,” Max showcases his versatility as an artist, effortlessly blending catchy pop hooks with soulful vocals.
As he continues to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, Max’s star continues to rise, solidifying his position as a rising force in the music industry. With a string of successful releases and an electrifying stage presence, Max Schneider is poised to captivate audiences around the world with his undeniable talent.
Max’s performance at Jones Beach Theater was an exhilarating display of his immense talent and showmanship. With a setlist that spanned his diverse discography, Max delivered a high-energy and unforgettable performance that had the crowd on their feet from start to finish.
Kicking off the set with the infectious hit “Love Me Less,” Max immediately established a powerful connection with the audience. The atmosphere was electric as he seamlessly transitioned into a medley of “Holla” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” infusing his own unique style into these iconic tracks.
Max’s versatility as an artist was on full display as he effortlessly shifted gears into the hypnotic and dreamy “Acid Dreams.” The crowd was captivated by his smooth vocals and mesmerizing stage presence, fully immersed in the musical vibes he created.
Taking a moment, Max performed a heartfelt mashup of “Someday” and “Me And You Against The World,” showcasing his ability to tug at heartstrings with his soulful delivery and emotionally charged lyrics. The audience swayed along, enveloped in the powerful atmosphere Max created.
The highlight of his set was the debut of a new, unreleased track titled “Say Less.” The funky and energetic song ignited the crowd, with its infectious hooks and irresistible groove. Max’s performance of this fresh offering left fans eager for what’s to come from his forthcoming album.
Continuing to dazzle the audience, Max delved into the energetic yet intimate “Blueberry Eyes,” a fan-favorite that showcased his vocal prowess, korean rapping mastery, and ability to evoke genuine emotions. The crowd sang along, creating a beautiful moment of unity and connection.
With “Strings,” Max demonstrated his artistry and musicianship, delivering a captivating performance that showcased his skill on the guitar. The intricate melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, further solidifying Max’s status as a true musical talent.
The energy reached its peak as Max unleashed the infectious anthem “Satisfied.” The crowd erupted into cheers, dancing and singing along to every word. Max’s infectious energy and stage presence were contagious, filling the venue with an electrifying atmosphere.
A standout moment came with the performance of his chart-topping hit “Lights Down Low.” As the opening chords filled the air, the entire stadium was illuminated by the sea of phone flashlights held up by fans, creating a magical sight and a testament to the profound impact this song has had on listeners.
Closing out the set with the powerful and dynamic “Mug Shot,” Max left the audience craving more. In a moment of excitement and anticipation, he announced a forthcoming album, set to be released at the end of the year, accompanied by an accompanying tour. The crowd erupted into cheers, eagerly awaiting what promises to be another exceptional chapter in Max’s career.
His performance was a masterclass in showmanship, talent, and connection. With an electrifying stage presence, a versatile setlist, and an unwavering connection with his fans, Max proved once again why he is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. As fans eagerly anticipate his upcoming album and tour, it’s clear that Max Schneider will continue to rise, and his captivating performances leave an indelible mark on all who have the pleasure of witnessing his artistry.
Stay up to date with Max on socials and any updates from upcoming tour here.
MAX Setlist: Love Me Less, Holla / Drop It Like It’s Hot, Acid Dreams, Someday / Me And You Against The World, Say Less [Unreleased], Blueberry Eyes, Strings, Satisfied, Lights Down Low, Mug Shot
This past Wednesday, July 5, the iconic 80s band Tears for Fears took the stage at Bethel Woods for a night of new-wave nostalgia. The English band, consisting of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, with Lauren Evans supporting the two on vocals, put on a fantastic show for their The Tipping Point Part II tour.
Tears for Fears, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Tears for Fears originated in Bath, UK in 1981 and disbanded for a nine-year-long period in 1991. After reuniting in 2000, the two released albums Everybody Loves a Happy Ending, The Hurting, and their most recent release, The Tipping Point. Tears for Fears recently played a show at Madison Square Garden and Saratoga Performing Arts Center. With nineteen dates left in the North American / European leg of their tour, the duo will be busy playing shows until late November.
Tears for Fears, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Orzabel and Smith have been playing shows virtually their whole lives. The two know exactly how to work for a crowd, as thousands of fans in middle age and older stood up in their seats to get a good view of the stage. Concertgoers danced, jumped, swayed, and clapped along to iconic songs like “Shout,” “Head Over Heels,” and their most popular track, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” After playing “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” Orzabel paused for a moment and said, “This song gets a million streams every day, which would be remarkable if they weren’t all from us.” A sustained laugh from the crowd. During their performance of “Mad World,” fans screamed in excitement as the two scaled the stage, singing and dancing as colorful lights flashed about.
The end of the show was exciting yet bittersweet, as the two closed the night with a powerful performance of “Change” and “Shout.” Although they do not have any more scheduled tour dates in New York State, the two are sure to come back again as they have in the past.
Setlist: No Small Thing, The Tipping Point, Everybody Wants to Rule the World, Secret World, Sowing the Seeds of Love; Long, Long, Long Time; Break the Man, My Demons, Rivers of Mercy, Mad World, Suffer the Children (sung by Lauren Evans), Woman in Chains, Badman’s Song, Pale Shelter, Break It Down Again, Head Over Heels / Broken
NYC-based house-meets-indie duo DJibouti and Feinte released their debut collaborative project, Run Riot on June 23. The EP is a vulnerable story of heartbreak that blossomed from an abundance of pent-up angst in Feinte’s world, all layered over pastel dance tracks. DJibouti’s expertise for creating fun, dance-yourself-clean new wave house music gave him the outlet to release that hurt.
DJibouti and Feinte met in a college Ottoman History class when they realized their shared love of music. DJibouti, a DJ and producer, is currently taking the New York City house scene by storm. Playing a groovy, eclectic mix of house and funk, he’s established himself as one of the the up-and-coming DJs out of the NYC scene. He burst onto the scene through underground raves and parties, already racking up over a million streams on Spotify alone.
Feinte has a range of influences. He is based in New York as an indie-tronica singer-songwriter, but grew up in Los Angeles and also spent time living in Berlin, London, and Tel Aviv.
Inspiration Behind Run Riot
After Feinte moved to Berlin, the project was put on pause until he returned to NYC. Through those six months, he experienced intense heartbreak. Quickly, he learned that the way they deal with it in Berlin is to dance through it. Run Riot invites everyone to dance through their pain with accessible but never boring four-on-the-floor beats.
“Every weekend I released all my excess emotions to a soundtrack of Sylvester, Skatebård, and Daphni. The collaborative aspect of the various dance floors gave me the feeling that I had people listening to everything I needed to say,” Feinte said speaking about his time in Berlin. With Run Riot, Feinte and DJibouti aim to recreate that feeling.
Of Run Riot, Feinte continues, “over the Spring and Summer of 2022, [DJibouti] would send me different beats, and I would smoke a little too much and dance over them. After a few demos, we realized we had a unique sound that the dance music world had never heard; The Indie-loverboy over the jazzy house keys and DJibouti Drums.”
In a year where hip hop is on a commercial downturn, it’s nice to see an essential part of the culture remains. This latest edition of rap beef kicked-off with Jim Jones challenging Pusha T’s validity among rap’s royalty on various hip hop platforms. However, it wasn’t Jones’ opinion on Pusha T that sparked the brouhaha, but rather his determined effort to make it seem like Pusha had little to no cultural relevance. With Jones saying, “Nobody has dressed like him. Nobody wants to be like Pusha T. I don’t remember nothing.”
Jim Jones vs Pusha T is hip hop’s latest beef
In turn, Pusha T’s expectedly cunning response created a moment on social media. In sinister tone and fashion, Push gave his reply at the Louis Vuitton fashion show, where record producer — and longtime Pusha T cohort — Pharell Williams debuted his collection as men’s creative director. With this intention, Pusha and his brother, No Malice, who make up Clipse, walked the runway in the show as their new track played. With the fabled duo sharing their first collaboration in 14 years.
Pusha T & Malice walking the LV runway for Pharrell’s new menswear collection to their new (rebuttal) track is a monumental moment. pic.twitter.com/MHPSf2utrb
Although the diss-record was previewed inconspicuously, the public pieced together the Jim Jones disses within the track. Addressing Jones’ comments, Push raps, “beware of my name, that there’s delegate/ You know I know where you’re delicate/ Crush you to pieces, I’ll hum a breath of it…I’m watching your fame escape relevance/ We all in a room but here’s the elephant/ You chasing a feature out of your element.”
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/vFSAG90jYZo
By the same token, Push continuously attacks Jim for his own public financial troubles, while reminding of his own mercurial standing within his circle.
“And those lab diamonds under inspection/ The question marks block your blessings/ It’s no tombstones in the desert/ I know by now you get the message,” he goes on to say.
All in all, it was a masterful move by Push to withhold his reply until the time was right. Despite Jim Jones’ assertion that Pusha T held little relevance musically, here he is walking in a fashion show for one of the world’s preeminent brands to his own record, while A-list stars like Jay-Z and Beyoncé were seen boppin’ to the song in the crowd. Jones gave an instant reply on social media, although his perceived carefree attitude did little to sway fans, Jones needed to reply with bars and couldn’t finesse his way out of this one.
Bomb First, Jim Jones Replies
To Jim Jones’ credit, he did reply, albeit with a stellar yet not quite up-to-snuff effort when compared to his adversary. His “Summer Collection, From The Block” video performance saw the Dipset rapper try his hand at Pusha T’s beat. Altogether, Jim held his own with his brand of witty wordplay and street tales, however his flow and presence on the record failed to match Pusha T’s output. That is to say nothing of Jim’s own lyrical expertise as he had his own ammo for Push. Namely, attacking his street cred and claiming that he knew little of the drug dealing he rapped about and for his association with Ye, who helped Pusha launch his solo career on his Good Music label. But nonetheless, it seemed a mistake to rap over a beat that was curated specifically for Pusha and No Malice.
“These two roach niggas don’t know what to do in no raid/ Kanye gave you whips, but that’s what they do to the slaves/ you tryna act bad, but we ain’t doin’ charades/ I really have bombs on the block just like I threw a grenade.”
Jim Jones might have felt similar sentiments as he continued to hop on airwaves and diminish Pusha’s efforts. The one they call Capo phoned in to the Joe Budden Podcast and share more colorful sentiments about this battle. Namely, called Pusha T’s diss-track “cute” and claimed that things might get violent if Pusha goes to similar extents as he did in his beef with Drake. With Capo hilariously quipping “whose going to spin the block for him, Pharrell?”
What Comes Next?
Hopefully more music. Although with Push leading the vote in public opinion, Jim may need to double-down on his attacks to get ahead of things, but would he want to poke to proverbial bear? As things stand, what else can Jim Jones say as it relates to Pusha T? Despite his best efforts, the “Diet Coke” MC remains in the upper echelon of rappers. Altogether, Push has tallied an impressive resume, with platinum-selling albums as a member of the Clipse and as a solo artist. His last two albums, 2018’s DAYTONA and 2022’s It’s Almost Dry got him Grammy nominations and he is still one of the only artists that can snag a Jay – Z feature.
All things considered, Jims’s best bet is to throw a few haymakers and hope his witty-ness is able to catch the public’s ears, basically play the social media battle. Pusha T, meanwhile, seems to be more patient and isn’t as keen to respond through the media. After all, he knows he has the advantage lyrically. Moreover, his abrupt releases and ability to find his opponents hidden skeletons seems to leave foes on edge.
Wallice, the rising indie-pop sensation, graced the stage at Bowery Ballroom in Manhattan on June 27th, captivating the crowd with her infectious melodies and magnetic presence. This performance marked her triumphant return to NYC (and Bowery Ballroom) after her opening act with JAWNY last March.
With her irresistible charm and undeniable talent, Wallice delivered a performance that was nothing short of electric. Sharing the spotlight was the indie rock boy band Nitefire, whose infectious energy and captivating melodies set the perfect tone for the evening.
As the lights dimmed and the first chords resonated through the venue, it was evident that this would be a night to remember. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as fans eagerly embraced the fusion of Wallice’s honest lyrics, vulnerability, and witty storytelling. With each song, she effortlessly transported the audience into her world, exploring themes of love, self-discovery, and the rollercoaster of emotions that come with growing up. The synergy between Wallice and Nitefire created a dynamic and unforgettable concert experience, leaving the crowd craving for more.
Nitefire,the dynamic musical project of Nico Geyer and Luke White, boldly defines themselves as the “budget Wallows.” Blending the pop sensibilities of turn-of-the-century indie rock with the vibrant sonics and youthful spirit of Brit-pop, Nitefire fearlessly carves out a lane that is uniquely their own, leaving nostalgia behind. With their roots embedded in the thriving Los Angeles music scene, the band has gained recognition for their DIY approach, hosting their own events and shows that embrace an “if you build it, they will come” mentality, diverging from the digital-dominated landscape of today. Nitefire’s sound and attitude are entirely their own as they carve out a distinct lane. With their debut single “Up 2 U” released, the band has already amassed an impressive following and garnered over 40K monthly listeners on Spotify. Nitefire’s journey has only just begun, and their upcoming releases and live performances promise an exciting and vibrant future for the band.
Nitefire’s opening performance was an electrifying display of energy and connection. Despite a minor setback earlier in the day, with Luke breaking his pinky, the band turned it into a playful guessing game during their set. Nico, the charismatic frontman, challenged the crowd to speculate on the cause of Luke’s injury, teasing them with the statement, “You’ll literally never guess.” Hilarious suggestions of door-related incidents were quickly debunked, fueling the curiosity of the fans. To their surprise, it was revealed that the pinky was actually broken in a Frisbee accident, leaving many scratching their heads and engaging in animated discussions.
Nico’s crowd interaction was a highlight, as he jumped into the crowd multiple times with guitar and mic in hand, creating a central pit of excitement. One fan attempted to converse with Nico in French, only to be misheard, prompting Nico to ask if she was speaking Spanish instead. The lighthearted exchange drew laughter and further showcased the band’s down-to-earth and approachable nature. The finale saw Nico leaning back into the crowd, crowd surfing during the last song, “Saturday.” Nitefire’s performance was a thrilling and engaging experience, leaving fans captivated by their boundless energy and genuine connection.
Nitefire Setlist: Daisies, Here We Go, La La, LAâs Got Gorgeous, Love Gets Ug, Uptight, Lovekiss, Life Gets Funny, Worth It, Saturday
Wallice, the rising indie-pop sensation hailing from Los Angeles, is making waves with her captivating blend of honesty, vulnerability, and wit. With a musical upbringing that exposed her to a diverse range of influences, from classic rock to 90s R&B, Wallice has developed a unique sound that sets her apart in the industry. Her breakout hits, including “23” and “Off The Rails,” have garnered attention for their raw and authentic approach to songwriting, tackling themes of love, loss, and self-discovery with remarkable vulnerability. Her newest EP, “Mr Big Shot,” released June 23rd, further showcases her exceptional songwriting prowess, offering a masterclass in Gen Z’s hopes, dreams, and failures.
Following a successful run of North American shows with JAWNY and Australian dates with The 1975, Wallice is now embarking on her own headline tour across the US, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and tongue-in-cheek, self-effacing anthems. With each release, Wallice reaffirms her status as an artist to watch, captivating listeners with her authentic storytelling and undeniable talent.
Wallice’s performance at the iconic Bowery Ballroom was an extraordinary display of her artistry, accompanied by heartwarming moments and genuine interactions with the audience. The show kicked off with a sweet gesture as she gave her guitarist a peck, setting a playful and affectionate tone for the evening. A fan’s gift of a black gemstone studded cowboy hat became a striking accessory as Wallice embraced it during her soulful rendition of “John Wayne,” captivating the crowd with her magnetic presence. After the song, she graciously returned the hat from whence it came.
Throughout the set, Wallice’s affection for New York was evident as she expressed her love for the city, instantly establishing a connection with the enthusiastic crowd. The audience reciprocated with adoration, elevating the energy in the venue. A touching moment occurred when a fan handed her a crochet bandana and a heartfelt letter accompanied by personal photos. Wallice graciously accepted the gift and wore the crochet bandana while performing the introspective and introspective song “Quarterlife,” adding an intimate touch to the performance.
In a playful exchange, Wallice humorously reprimanded her bassist for removing his goggles after the spirited performance of “Why Do You Love Me?“. This lighthearted banter showcased the camaraderie and dynamic chemistry within the band, further enhancing the overall experience for the audience. Following the energetic performance of “Prepaid Wireless,” Wallice took a moment to introduce her talented band members by name, highlighting their contributions to the music.
Although faced with a technical glitch during “Japan,” Wallice’s professionalism shone through as she gracefully restarted the song, seamlessly carrying the audience along with her. Her ability to handle unexpected situations with poise and maintain a strong connection with the crowd was a testament to her artistry and stage presence.
Wallice’s set at Bowery Ballroom was a memorable and captivating experience, filled with genuine moments of connection. Her ability to embrace fan gifts, engage in playful interactions, and overcome technical challenges showcased her authenticity as an artist. With each song, Wallice’s honesty and vulnerability resonated deeply, leaving the audience with a lasting impression of her talent and charisma.
Wallice Setlist: Disappear, Little League, Loser At Best, Punching Bag, 90s American Superstar, Wisdom Tooth, Rich Wallice, John Wayne, Headache, Quarterlife, Dramamine, Hey Michael, Why Do You Love Me?, Prepaid Wireless, Off The Rails, Japan, 23, Best Friend, Funeral
In terms of upcoming shows, Wallice and Nitefire will be on the road with plenty of chances to catch them on tour until they wrap up on July 20th in San Francisco.
Updates for any future Wallice shows can be found on her socials, and her linktree. The same goes for Nitefire, and you can find their socials and linktree here.
