Tinashe Brought Style & Elegance To An Eager Emo’s Crowd
Photos By Ursula Rogers
Thrice Conquers The Stage At Emos With Drug Church & mewithoutYou
Words & Stills : Jake Rabin
Touring in celebration of the 15th Anniversary of their incredible fourth studio-album Vheissu. Thrice was on the docket tonight at Emo’s, along with tour mates mewithoutYou, Drug Church, and Holy Fawn. Released in October 2005, Vheissu helped launch Thrice even further into the mainstream realm, peaking at Number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album’s sound is a slight departure from the band’s previous work, which was more rooted in post-hardcore and punk. By contrast, Vheissu felt more experimental and artistic, pushing the band’s instrumentation and sound forward. Upon its release, Vheissu received wide critical acclaim. They have even been called Thrice’s best record (I personally think Artist in the Ambulance is hands down their best record, but I digress…) The energy at Emo’s leading up to Thrice’s set felt electric, the swelling crowd all clearly present for one reason…
Opening the night were Holy Fawn, a 4-piece combining elements of electronic, doom, rock and post-hardcore (with a little heady acid to boot). Full disclosure – I never heard of this band prior to this show. My mind was completely blown, and I instantaneously became a fan. Their mix of beautiful, airy synth parts with crunchy guitars and an incredibly powerful screamer made for a unique sound and performance. If you haven’t listened to this band yet, their most recent release is “Death Spells” and it is 61 minutes of post-hardcore experimental amazingness. I really can’t emphasize enough how good this band is.
How Did Drug Church Stack On Austin Crowd At Emos
Up next were Drug Church, a 5-piece alternative punk/hardcore band out of Albany, New York. This was a band I had a little more familiarity with. I certainly was excited to finally get a chance to see them live. Problem was, there is a huge cultural difference. Namely, in the way live music is consumed in Austin versus the rest of the world, and this can either completely make the show, or break it.
Simply put: Austin audiences are spoiled and expect to be entertained. They will sit (or stand) in the crowd, arms crossed, silently watching. Even if and when they are having a great time. Maybe they will clap at the end of a song. Maybe they won’t. Maybe they’ll scream on command like you ask, but probably they won’t. This is just what it is; with so many amazing musical options in this city every single night, many Austin music consumers have become jaded, easily taking for granted the talent that comes through this city to perform.
As an Austin musician, you get used to this. Quickly, actually. As a touring band coming through this city, especially a punk(ish) band, I can certainly empathize with that band’s struggle to read and react to an Austin audience. And this was unfortunately what befell Drug Church: a band playing high-energy, made-to-mosh bangers to a largely motionless crowd. This was clearly a confusing audience to the band, and I can understand why. Regardless, Drug Church powered through and ended their set strong, making way for the legendary mewithoutYou.
mewithoutYou Shows The Fans What Hardcore Is About
Led by vocalist Aaron Weiss, mewithoutYou took the stage and immediately plunged into their heady, post-hardcore set. Opening song “Julia (or, ‘Holy to the LORD’ on the Bells of Horses)” quickly set the pace for the rest of their show, and the band sounded as tight and strong as ever. Playing tracks from all across their discography. The die-hard fans came out in full force, screaming back every lyric and air drumming the iconic parts. After 11 songs, the band thanked the audience and exited the stage. Next up: the real reason we were all here…
Thrice Takes Emos By Storm
The moment that Thrice front man Dustin Kensrue took the stage, all of Emo’s erupted. As if the pent up energy saved during the first performers could now finally be excised into the music universe. There is a reason that Vheissu opens up with the track “Image of the Invisible,” (the song is absolute fire, and is one of Thrice’s strongest and most objectively well-written pieces of music). This is exactly why they opened the set that way too.
From the moment that the immediately-recognizable Morse Code section begins the track. The entire crowd became activated, and the energy and intensity did not stop once. (fun fact: the Morse Code at the beginning of the song spells out the albums’ title. Thanks, Wikipedia!) Screaming or moshing or simply staring in awe, the Emo’s audience was enraptured, and the energy was palpable. The nearly sold-out venue was packed with a crowd as diverse as Thrice’s songs. Filled with fans of all ages were crammed tightly into the pit, swaying and jumping and screaming and loving every moment of it. The band performed a total of 18 songs. Finishing out their incredible set with “Words in the Water” off 2011’s “Major / Minor” album.
How Did Thrice And Support Talent Fare Up?
Overall, Thrice does not disappoint. Period. This was my 5th or 6th time seeing them live over the last 16 years or so, and I’m just as impressed now as I was as a teenager. Musicality, instrumentation, song quality, performance. They are solid in every way. Thrice mastered their own sound and uniquely carved out their own space within a growing, homogenizing scene. The fact they now can celebrate a 15th Anniversary by touring this record to sold-out crowds all over the country is a huge testament to just how important and impactful this band is, and will continue to be.
Queensryche & John 5 Take Over Emos With Iconic Performance!
Queensryche & John 5 Brought The Electricity To The Austin Crowd
Queensryche and John 5 at Emos on Riverside was this night’s agenda. I couldn’t be happier about this show. Personally, I have seen Queensryche with Geoff Tate, and Geoff Tate solo show. I have not, however, seen Todd La Torre as the lead vocalist. On that note, nor have I seen John 5 solo stage set. Of course, I have seen his ax-wielding glory on stage with Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson.
The stage for John 5 was condensed and narrow on space due to the LCD screens that began to flash clips and distorted images of some iconic horror films. Next thing I know the string master and band take the stage. I’m not so familiar with John 5 solo work but damn did I become a fan after seeing this performance. From start to finish it was pure entertainment. With the aid of a few props, some extras in costumes, and an enchanting led lit guitar, this set stood out as one to embrace.
A Set Never To Forgotten Was About To Embark The Stage
As the stagehands cleared the stage, we all knew the moment for Queensryche was quickly approaching. As the lights turned down, the band takes the stage. First on the list was “Launder the Conscience” that got the crowd up and moving out of their seats. After this, they rolled into “Prophecy” that got the blood running through everyone’s veins. Presumably one of the most iconic Queensryche songs “Operation: MindCrime” first few cords hits the guitar and everyone grasps what song it was and put their fists up and sang along word for word. You can feel the force flowing back and forth from fan to band and the night had just begun.
The band did a magnificent job of mixing up the new with the old..and giving everyone what they came for. “Walk in the shadow” is added great classic that hits home with the more seasoned fans and bringing back memories. Blending in some of the new stuff was great as well like “Bent”, “Dark Reverie” which was glorious to hear as well. For me and I think most of the people there were aching to hear the old music that they grew up listing to and singing in their cars like “Jet City Woman”, “Silent Lucidity“, and even going way back to “Queen of the Reich” that got the crowd-drawing their fists and going crazy.
Todd La Torre Takes Queensryche To New Royalty
Queensryche ended that show like only they could with three mega-hits that set the house on its ear and made for one hell of a show…Resistance, Empire and the last Eyes of a Stranger that everyone was holding and belting out at the top of their metal lungs!!
For me…This was one of the band best shows I have seen!! If you get a chance check them out!! you will not be disappointed in one hell of a rock show!!
Big Freedia, The New Orleans Queen Of Bounce Makes Her Way To Emo’s
Big Freedia, The New Orleans Queen Of Bounce Makes Her Way To Emo’s
Big Freedia and company bright that magical sparkle of our neighboring friends of New Orleans to the live music Capital of the World, Austin, Tx.
The Queen of Bounce made her way to the iconic Emo’s on Riverside just outside of downtown.
You could tell after arriving it was going to be a special sort of night. With a nearly sold-out out crowd, it was tremendously packed. Last I remember hearing was about 1400 tickets were sold. The NOLA energy was in the air. Everyone was gearing up for the party of the weekend.
I’ll admit I didn’t get to catch the opening act but was able to get there in time to see the Houston favorites The Suffers. Upon a little research, I discovered they have moved in a new direction with the group. They are starting the New Year by amicably parting ways with originating members Adam Castañeda and Patrick Kelly. In on the backline is the latest member of the group, Juliet Terrill on bass guitar.
From upbeat singles like “Do Whatever” to soulful contributions such as “Giver”, The Suffers are sure to hit you with some kind of passion as they pull on your heartstrings while making you hop and sing along.
Next year will mark a decade since the band’s debut, and as lead singer Kam Franklin reassures everyone, there are plenty more Suffers jams coming soon.
One of the new tracks was an empowerment song about staying true to yourself in the face of life’s many hindrances. “It don’t cost a thing to be you, so be you!” sang Franklin as she moved across the stage with determination and grace. The second new song was a fun bounce-inspired track called “Yadda Yadda”, a not so subtle “f*ck you” to the establishment and the haters in the music industry.
High above the stage was a crown enclosed in booty, ready to be embellished by the Queen Of Bounce herself, Big Freedia. One by one, Freedia and her dancers took the stage wearing purple church choir robes, which were quickly shed once the first beat hit the sound system.
After their introduction to the crowd, the robes came off and the party ensued. Every beat was felt with high energy from Freedia and the dancers. As to be expected, the twerking captivated the fans. The dancers would shift between songs between a group of girls and a group of guys. Giving a fair share of stage time.
From that first note until the end of the night, the show was non-stop action and twerking. The audience was hypnotized by all the booty-shaking and enticed by the several call and response chants led by the New Orleans diva. At this time, not a soul in the room was still, stimulated by the bounce and turning up to the beat.
You can catch Kesha and Big Freedia touring together later on this Spring together. You can get more info on tickets for the Kesha and Big Freedia tour by going here
Daughters Takes The Stage At Emos In Austin
Daughters Brings An Intimate Vibe To The Fans
Walking up to Emo’s Austin, past the band’s enormous idling tour van, it’s clear that in the span of a few short months, the band are now moving forward in their career at an exponential pace. The last time I shot Daughters in Austin in March of this year was at a smaller, maybe-500-person capacity venue. The more intimate setting allowed for the band and the audience to connect and engage in a way that you don’t often get to see at larger shows.
No press pit, no barrier; just frontman Alexis Marshall screaming directly into the faces of a chaotic crowd. It was loud and intense and cathartic and physical. Is such an intimate performance even possible at a larger venue?
It turns out that yes, yes it is.
Taking the stage at the 1700-capacity Emo’s, the nearly sold-out crowd immediately went into a frenzy as the band began performing songs from their 2018 release “You Won’t Get What You Want.” In contrast to their 2003 release “Canada Songs,” or even their most recent release, 2010’s self-titled LP “Daughters,” the newest Daughters material feels the most structured, deliberate, and coherent.
They do not shy away from the at-times-hard-to-listen-to elements found in their early material of course (if anything they lean into them). These often jarring sonic elements feel like carefully crafted pieces in a bigger, more artistic composition. The music is gritty, violent, beautiful, moody, fast, slow, abrasive, enveloping. It entices you in as much as it gently pushes you away, and it’s this dichotomy that makes a Daughters performance so mesmerizing. Whether swallowing the microphone whole, hurling it around his head and neck, or shoving it into the entranced faces of the screaming crowd, Marshall’s stage presence feels more like a cult leader than a lead singer. His energy and intensity are absolutely captivating, a blend of violence and mystery and aggression and compassion.
Throughout the 60-minute performance, the crowd proved just as energized and enthralled as they did in March. People were screaming along with Marshall from the very first note. They were pushing and clawing their way to the front of the barrier. Eventually, Marshall climbed down from the stage, through the press-pit, and stood perched directly on the railing. He gave the audience that personal physical element required of a proper Daughters show. A subtle smirk crawled across Marshall’s face. Even he couldn’t help but show his approval.
Overall, the show and performance were incredible. This was a real testament to how far this band has come since it’s inception. Also, where it now stands in the musical landscape. Rightfully so. Daughters consistently make powerful music that forces emotion into the listener. Whether instrumentally, vocally, or lyrically, you’re now captivated. You’re hooked. And that’s the best way to feel at a show.
Julia Michaels First Headline Show In Austin Was A Hit
Even if you don’t know who Julia Michaels is, you most certainly would have heard one of her tracks by now. The pop superstar – who started her career at 16 – has written for some of the BIGGEST names in the industry. Think along the lines of Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes, and Britney Spears. But it is her own tracks where the true Julia gets to shine, and where – don’t mind the play on words – her inner monologue gets to spill out.
As the crowd packed into Emos on Friday night, the energy was palpable. The stage was set up with gorgeous lit-up flowers, and a sign that read:
Encouraged:
- Singing
- Dancing
- Jumping
- Feeling
- Laughing
Michaels then came out on stage to huge applause, busting straight into ‘Pink’. Her set was filled to the brim with pure hits like ‘I Miss You’ (her collaboration with Clean Bandit), ‘Worst In Me’, ‘Heaven’, ‘Uh Huh’, and plenty more. The crowd that came to see her was prepared and ready, with Julia herself commenting how loud and proud they sung her lyrics back at her.
Julia Michaels Not Only Gives Her Best But Cares For Her Fans
One of the best parts of the show was her emphasis on making the venue a safe space. This was a space where it was ok to cry, it was ok to dance, it was ok to be excited, and she would be all those things with us. A hallmark of Julia’s music is the fact that she is not afraid to talk about anxiety or depression, and she reassures the crowd that they are not alone, that they have her, and they have her music.
You could tell just how happy and excited she was to be there, and her set was a joyful mix of keytars, synchronized dancing, acoustic singalongs, and a surprising cover of CeeLo Green’s ‘Fuck You’.
For her encore, she started with ‘What A Time’, with Rhys Lewis filling in for Niall’s section, and then absolutely tore the house down with ‘Issues’ to close the set-off. ‘Issues’ may have been her first hit, but it was a perfect ending to a night where she encouraged the crowd to not be ashamed that they may have ‘issues’, with this lyric encompassing almost her entire ethos:
‘Cause I got issues
But you got ’em too
So give ’em all to me
And I’ll give mine to you’
Overall, the show was a performance that set itself apart from the expectation that I had. Julia Michaels is easily a star on the rise. With this being her first headline set in Austin, I can expect that they will only grow and become even more with time. I will be watching her career intently. This was a fun night for everyone!
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www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina 
www.Noisefromthepit.com @Bloggingphotonina