Balance and Composure and Bleeding Fractals at The Flux, West Philadelphia (Drexel). April 26, 2013

This was one of the most intimate shows I have ever been to. The Flux is located in the basement of one of Drexel University’s buildings and has a very small stage. This particular show was not very crowded despite the popularity of the bands playing. Bleeding Fractals played loud and with hostility. Their set energized the crowd and showcased some great young talent. The perfect opening for Balance and Composure.

I have seen Balance and Composure numerous times, and it was a once in a lifetime experience to see them in such a small, uncrowded venue. The crowd was still pushing, shoving, and crowd surfing, all right up in front of the stage. B&C was great, played all their best songs and performed every song perfectly. The energy and raw emotion that came from this band felt so close and really hit you hard. I am sure I will see Balance and Composure many more times, but I will always remember this show due to its intimate setting at The Flux.

 

Crybaby at Teri’s Bar & Diner, South Philadelphia. June 24, 2013

I have seen this band a few times, and they were great as always. From the Philadelphia area, this is a punk band that does it right. The screaming of the honest, relatable lyrics over the creative riffs, trudging bass, and powerful drums is a recipe for the best new band in Philadelphia. They played some songs off their Coming Undone EP and split with Adult Braces, as well as a few new ones that I cannot wait to hear recorded. Check this band out and go see them play as soon as you can.

 

Old Gray, I Kill Giants, and Little Kingdoms at the Michael Jordan House, West Philadelphia. June 2, 2013

Little Kingdoms started off by filling the basement with ambient sounds of guitar layered with some great solos by their front man. Keep an eye on this band as they progress in their songwriting.

I Kill Giants went as hard as they could the entire set. The guitar tapping, drum filling, and passionate yelling did not stop until their final song was over. Their set consisted of several songs off their recently released full length, and almost all of their older EPs. They played quickly and with meaning, jumping and running around the small space, as well as encouraging the entire crowd to sing-along. These guys know how to play and write catchy songs while having as much fun as they can while doing it.

Old Gray poured their heart and soul in to their music, and this performance. Their new album is fantastic, and that came through at this show. The lyrics are revealing, the music is sad and angry and goes perfectly with the emotions they describe. The intensity of their set just speaks of how much feeling these guys put into their music.