Glass Animals performing at the Moody Center on Sunday, September 22, 2024 (Photo by Camryn Hutchens/The Early Registration).
Glass Animals’ Tour of Earth landed in Austin last night, and it was as if the Moody Center had been transformed into a cosmic voyage through space, soundtracked by the band’s signature indie-electronic vibes. The UK-based quartet took the audience on an interstellar journey with a space-themed production, complete with futuristic visuals that made you feel like you were floating somewhere between Mars and “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” (a setlist highlight).
For those not familiar with Glass Animals, they’re known for their dreamy, genre-bending sound. Fronted by Dave Bayley, the group has been steadily rising in the indie scene since their 2014 debut ZABA. But their breakout hit, Heat Waves, from the 2020 album Dreamland, was the moment they really broke orbit, topping charts worldwide and cementing them as festival headliners. Last night’s performance of Heat Waves felt like the emotional zenith of the show, with the crowd lighting up the arena like stars in the night sky.
The setlist was a balanced mix of their old and new work, kicking off with Life Itself and moving through favorites like Gooey and Pork Soda. A personal favorite was the track Your Love (Déjà Vu), which had the crowd vibing along, possibly experiencing a bit of musical déjà vu themselves. The band also dove into newer material, with songs like A Tear in Space (Airlock) and Lost in the Ocean, which were well-received by the Austin crowd.
The cosmic theme was brought to life not just by the music but through the stunning visuals that accompanied each song. Neon lights, swirling galaxies, and even space creatures (yes, really) filled the massive screens, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that made you feel like you’d been beamed up from Earth. It was a visual feast that enhanced the already hypnotic beats.
Of course, no Glass Animals show is complete without a sense of playfulness, and last night was no different. Bayley’s infectious energy had the crowd in the palm of his hand, especially during Tokyo Drifting and Take a Slice. The whimsical energy was dialed up to 11 during Pork Soda, with its unforgettable “pineapples are in my head” refrain echoing throughout the venue, leaving everyone with a smile.
All in all, Glass Animals delivered an out-of-this-world performance that had Austin floating on a cloud of synths and euphoria. If the Tour of Earth is passing through your town, strap in—it’s a wild ride through space and sound that you won’t want to miss!
Check out of photos from photographer Camryn Hutchens below!
If you thought Friday night at the iHeartRadio Music Festival was a wild ride, Saturday night took things to a whole new level. With a lineup that stretched from country superstar Keith Urban to pop sensation Doja Cat, and closing out with The Weeknd’s electrifying performance, it was like playing every card in the deck—and winning big every time. The second night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas had something for every music lover, from the nostalgic beats of New Kids On the Block to the heart-wrenching soul of Hozier. And with special guests and surprise debuts, this show turned out to be a sure bet.
With performances that felt like hitting the jackpot time and time again, the energy in the crowd was electric from the moment New Kids On the Block helped kick things off. The night featured everything from intimate acoustic moments to high-octane pop anthems, and every artist brought their A-game. Las Vegas may be known for its blinding lights and high stakes, but the real magic on Saturday was inside the arena, where music reigned supreme.
New Kids On the Block: And a Nostalgic Crossover
Opening night two was none other than the boy band legends themselves, New Kids On the Block. Decked out in classic ‘90s swagger, they took the crowd on a trip down memory lane with “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” and “Step by Step.” But the real surprise hand came when they brought out Flavor Flav to join them for an unexpected mash-up of “Hangin’ Tough” and Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” It was the perfect mix of nostalgia and Vegas-style showmanship, and the crowd ate it up. For fans of the old school, this was the moment they had been betting on.
Big Sean Represents for the Rappers
Next up was Big Sean, and he didn’t come to play—well, not just to play. Sean tore through a high-energy set that included the live debut of “It Is What It Is” and classics like “Mercy” and “Bounce Back.” Dressed in black leather over a white tee, Sean looked every bit the rap star, and the crowd couldn’t get enough when he dropped “I Don’t F*ck With You.” His performance was as entertaining as ever, reminding everyone that Big Sean’s always a Big Deal when it comes to live performances.
Keith Urban Gives Vegas some Country Sounds
Keith Urban brought his signature mix of country and rock to the stage, opening with “Straight Line.” Dressed in black pants and a red plaid shirt, Urban reminded everyone that country can hold its own in a festival lineup packed with pop and hip-hop stars. “Blue Ain’t Your Color” had the crowd swaying, while “Wasted Time” brought the energy right back up. Urban’s guitar skills were on full display, and he played every note like it was a winning hand.
Victoria Monét: Pure R&B Gold
Victoria Monét made her iHeartRadio debut with a performance that was pure gold. Opening with “Alright,” she delivered an effortlessly smooth R&B set that included crowd favorites like “Ass Like That” and the sultry “Jaguar.” Monét commanded the stage with elegance and swagger, and when she closed out with “On My Mama,” the audience was right there with her. Her performance was a slow burn, building the energy perfectly for the artists to follow.
Chris Martin: Acoustic Heartstrings
Chris Martin’s set brought the crowd to a quiet, intimate place with acoustic versions of Coldplay classics like “A Sky Full of Stars” and “Viva la Vida.” Performing in his signature understated style, Martin reminded the audience why his songs are the soundtrack to so many lives. In a surprise moment, he brought out Elyanna to join him on the track “We Pray,” adding an extra layer of magic to an already stellar set. For a moment, it felt like we were all gathered around a campfire, listening to stories told through song.
Hozier: Soulful and Soaring
Hozier followed with a hauntingly beautiful set that included “Nobody’s Soldier,” “Work Song,” and, of course, his massive hit “Take Me to Church.” Dressed in an all-grey suit, Hozier looked like a man who had wandered straight out of a dream, and his voice matched that vibe perfectly. His performance was a masterclass in soulful vulnerability, making everyone in the crowd feel like they were part of something deeply intimate—even in an arena of thousands.
Halsey: Fiery and Fearless
Halsey, fresh off her engagement to Avan Jogia, hit the stage with fire and passion—and red hair to match. She opened with “Nightmare” and powered through hits like “Without Me” and “Closer.” Dressed in a dress shirt, suspenders, and pants, Halsey looked fierce and fearless, delivering every song with the intensity she’s known for. The raw emotion of “You Should Be Safe” hit hard, but she quickly flipped the energy back up with her closing track, “Ego.” Halsey doesn’t hold back, and Saturday night was no exception.
Doja Cat Delivers
Doja Cat scratched her way to the top with a high-energy set that kept everyone on their feet. She opened with the “WYM Freestyle” before launching into “Demons” and fan-favorite “Say So.” In a white tank top and gray pants, Doja kept it simple—but her performance was anything but. “Agora Hills” had the crowd hyped, and by the time she finished with “Paint the Town Red,” it was clear she had solidified her status as a pop powerhouse. Every move, every beat—Doja Cat owned the night.
The Weeknd: Full Production, Full Perfection
Closing out night two was none other than The Weeknd, and if you thought his performance was just going to be a few songs and done, think again. The full production set featured about 50 dancers, perfectly complementing his stage presence. He opened with his new single “Dancing in the Flames” and kept the energy high with “Take My Breath” and “Blinding Lights.” When he closed with “Dancing in the Flames” again—this time the full version—it felt like he had taken the crowd through a journey and brought them back again. It was the perfect final act for a night that had already seen so many highlights.
And That’s a Wrap
Night two of the iHeartRadio Music Festival was everything fans could have hoped for and more. With a lineup that delivered hit after hit, it was a fitting end to an unforgettable weekend. From The Weeknd’s fiery finale to Keith Urban’s country-rock swagger, there was something for everyone. Here’s to another jackpot weekend of music magic in Las Vegas!
Dua Lipa performs at the United Center in Chicago, IL on March 9, 2022 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
In a city where the stakes are high, and dreams can come true with the roll of the dice, the iHeartRadio Music Festival rolled back into Las Vegas for another unforgettable weekend. Known for bringing together some of the biggest names in music across all genres, the annual festival transforms the T-Mobile Arena into a music playground where pop stars, rock legends, and country crooners all share the same stage. It’s not just about the performances, it’s about the experience, and there’s no better place to have it than the neon-lit streets of Vegas.
Every September, this two-day extravaganza draws music lovers, high-rollers, and casual fans alike to indulge in an incredible lineup of performers, and 2024 was no different. The iHeartRadio Music Festival has become a bucket list event, a place where once-in-a-lifetime collaborations and surprise guests are just as likely as hitting a royal flush on the strip. With the iconic backdrop of the Vegas Strip, the festival turns up the heat with its all star, featuring everyone from chart-topping pop icons to legendary rock acts.
The energy in the air on Friday night was palpable, like a gambler on a hot streak about to pull the lever one more time. Fans poured into the arena with high expectations, ready to see their favorite artists deliver the hits. For those who couldn’t be there in person, the show was broadcast live to fans across the globe, but let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like experiencing it all in the heart of Sin City. The festival has earned its reputation as a place where anything can happen, and this year was no exception. Friday’s lineup was a perfect blend of nostalgia, emerging talent, and fan favorites that made it feel like you were cashing in on a full house every time a new artist hit the stage.
With the bright lights of the casinos beckoning outside, it was time to double down on the music.
The Black Crowes: Kicking Things Off
The Black Crowes swooped in first, and boy, did they open strong with “Twice as Hard” and “Wanting and Waiting.” Lead singer Chris Robinson brought rock’n’roll grit to Vegas like he was holding an ace up his sleeve, especially when they tore through their hit Otis Redding cover, “Hard to Handle.” It was almost as if their guitar riffs were playing poker with the audience’s emotions—everyone was all in when “She Talks to Angels” started, and they doubled down with “Remedy” to close. Their performance was twice as nice, even without a casino chip in sight.
The New Camila Cabello
Next up was Camila Cabello, and she came to play—opening with her Playboi Carti-assisted “I LUV IT.” From the sultry beats of “Havana” to the romantic vibes of “Senorita,” Camila had the crowd swooning. And just when you thought you’d folded, she dropped her wild card to close her set, “Never Be the Same”, reminding everyone why she’s one of pop’s best players. It’s safe to say she left her heart and voice on the Vegas strip.
Gwen Stefani: No Doubt, She’s Still Got It
Gwen Stefani, strutted onstage like she owned the entire casino floor, opening with “The Sweet Escape.” Wearing her signature ponytail, a pink plaid ensemble, and black boots, Gwen was giving all the glam Vegas deserves. She debuted the live performance of “Somebody Else’s,” the next single off her forthcoming album “Bouquet”. From “Don’t Speak” to “Just a Girl,” she reminded everyone of her ska-punk roots before turning up the fun with “Hollaback Girl.” This set wasn’t just bananas; it was B-A-N-A-N-A-S.
Thomas Rhett Brings Georgia to Nevada
Thomas Rhett was up next, bringing a little southern charm to Sin City in his all-denim outfit. He opened with “Beautiful As You,” and for a moment, it felt like we were at a country dive bar instead of a mega-arena. Vegas odds were on his heartfelt “Die a Happy Man” being a crowd favorite, and he cashed in. With hits like “Make Me Wanna” and “Boots,” Rhett proved he’s got a knack for making country music feel at home in the desert heat. After all the bars were closed, he left the stage with nothing but smiles, like a lucky gambler walking away from the slots.
Shaboozy Goes 1 for 1
Shaboozy brought his smooth, genre-blending style to the stage with “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” offering a refreshing cocktail of sounds that Las Vegas wasn’t ready for. Sporting a shirt from Desert 5 Spot, the Los Angeles country bar, Shaboozy kept the one song performance full of energy, letting his lyrics speak louder than the slots from the neighboring casinos. A perfect breather before the headliners stormed the stage.
Paramore Gets Real
Hayley Williams and Paramore came to burn the house down, kicking off with “Hard Times” and a killer cover of Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House.” But it wasn’t just their music that had everyone talking; Hayley’s all-blue outfit was an eye-catcher. Inspired by Blondie’s 1979 live performance on The Midnight Special, Williams rocked a blue dress, fishnet stockings, heels, and a matching headband. If the iconic Debbie Harry had fronted a 2024 pop-punk band, it would’ve looked exactly like this.
But Paramore didn’t just come to give us a history lesson in music fashion. During “Big Man, Little Dignity,” Williams made a passionate plea for political action, specifically calling out Donald Trump and Project 2025. “It is time for all Americans to band together and finally defeat the Trump agenda,” she urged. “And the only way to do that is by confronting him at the polls. Do you want to live in a dictatorship? Well, show up and vote.” The crowd roared in agreement as she continued, “Project 2025 is Donald Trump’s playbook for controlling and punishing women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.”
The rest of the set brought fans back to the music they’ve come to know and love, including an emotional performance of “The Only Exception.” They closed out their set with the energetic anthem “Ain’t It Fun,” reminding everyone that Paramore is still as fresh and relevant as ever. Hayley Williams may have taken a bold stance on stage, but she left the audience dancing, proving that a little fun with a message can make the biggest impact.
Dua Lipa: Sparkling and Stunning
And finally, closing out the night was one of the queens of pop herself, Dua Lipa, dressed in a jaw-dropping black sparkly dress and bedazzled boots that had more shimmer than a disco ball. Dua opened with “Training Season” before elevating the energy with “Levitating”—and that’s no illusion. She dropped hit after hit, from “New Rules” to “Don’t Start Now,” and by the time she finished with “Houdini,” she’d completely disappeared—but not before taking everyone’s breath away. If there was ever a pop performance that felt like hitting the jackpot, this was it.
Saturday Night
But the iHeartRadio Music Festival isn’t over yet! Night two is coming in hot with Big Sean, Doja Cat, Halsey, The Weeknd, Hozier, Keith Urban, New Kids On The Block, Victoria Monét, and Chris Martin. If Friday was any indicator, Saturday’s lineup will surely have fans betting on another unforgettable night.
So, whether you’re hitting the tables or just here for the tunes, the iHeartRadio Music Festival is proving to be a gamble worth taking this weekend!
Vance Joy performs at the Salt Shed in Chicago, IL on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 (Photo by Tess Trueblood/The Early Registration).
Vance Joy brought his signature blend of indie-folk and heartfelt lyrics to the Salt Shed in Chicago last night, for one of his ‘dream your life away’ anniversary shows. It’s been ten years since his acclaimed album left us all stranded on a “Riptide” of feels, and Tuesday night proved that those waves of nostalgia are still crashing strong. With 18 songs on the setlist, a couple of surprising covers, and plenty of acoustic magic, Vance Joy turned a breezy Chicago night into a memory for the ages.
The Salt Shed, once an industrial salt storage facility, now functions as a unique concert venue. Its rugged, exposed brick and steel beams offer a gritty yet charming contrast to more traditional concert spaces. Joy opened the show with acoustic versions of “From Afar” and “Winds of Change,” setting the tone for an intimate evening under the stars. His voice, as tender as ever, made the night feel like a personal serenade.
In an unexpected twist, Joy treated fans to a cover of Noah Cyrus’ “Everybody Needs Someone” and a surprising rendition of KISS’ “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” These moments kept the crowd guessing and added a fresh twist to the set, making the performance feel both nostalgic and new. Of course, the crowd erupted when the unmistakable opening chords of “Riptide” rang out, with everyone singing along to his biggest hit.
For the encore, Vance returned with “I’m With You,” capping off a night filled with acoustic gems and heartfelt performances. Joy’s performance at the Salt Shed was the perfect tribute to an album that’s still as touching now as it was a decade ago. Here’s to the next 10 years of dreamin’ with Vance Joy.
Check out our amazing photos from the memorable night, from our photographer Tess Trueblood below.
Gracia Abrams kicks off her Good Riddance Tour at the House of Blues in Chicago, IL on March 6, 2023 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Get ready, Chicago! Gracie Abrams is heading to the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom on Friday, September 27, for her highly anticipated headlining tour, The Secret of Us. With her intimate songwriting and emotionally resonant performances, Abrams has quickly become one of pop music’s most captivating new voices. She’ll be joined by the incredible Role Model, adding his own heartfelt touch to the night, making this a show you won’t want to miss.
Known for her reflective lyrics and vulnerability, Abrams first gained widespread attention with her debut EP Minor in 2020, followed by This Is What It Feels Like in 2021. Her ability to connect with fans through her honest explorations of heartache, self-discovery, and healing has earned her millions of devoted followers. From supporting Olivia Rodrigo at the Aragon just a couple years ago to selling out the venue in seconds, with over 20,000 fans left in the ticket queue for the 5,000 capacity venue, Abrams’ rise has been meteoric in the past year, thanks in part to her support on Taylor Swift’s record breaking Eras Tour.
Fans in Chicago will get to hear favorites like “21,” “I Miss You, I’m Sorry,” and tracks from her critically acclaimed 2024 album Good Riddance. Her lush soundscapes and delicate, heartfelt performances at the Aragon Ballroom, an iconic standing room venue, promise an unforgettable evening.
Adding to the excitement, singer-songwriter Role Model joins Abrams as a special guest on this leg of the tour. Known for his raw and personal lyrics, Role Model is touring in support of his latest album Kansas Anymore. His blend of indie-pop and folk influences makes his performances emotionally charged and introspective. Hits like “Deeply Still in Love,” which has taken TikTok by storm, and his heartfelt debut album Rx are sure to resonate deeply with the Chicago crowd.
The Secret of Us tour has already gained rave reviews from fans across the country, and the Chicago stop is shaping up to be a highlight. With both artists bringing their most personal and impactful music to life, expect a night filled with emotional highs and introspective moments.
As Gracie Abrams and Role Model are set to hit the stage on September 27th, their individual yet complementary styles will offer an evening that celebrates love, heartbreak, and the stories that tie us together. With the standing-room-only format of the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, you’ll want to arrive early to secure your spot close to the stage.
Event Details
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL
Tickets: Sold Out
Prepare to be moved by an unforgettable night of live music. Gracie Abrams and Role Model are sure to make the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom one of the tour’s standout moments. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!
Chicago is about to experience one of the most dynamic pop pairings of the decade as Charli XCX and Troye Sivan will co-headline their “Sweat” tour at the United Center this month. Taking their talents to the UC on September 30, this highly anticipated collaboration between two of pop’s most progressive voices promises a night filled with infectious beats, bold visuals, and nonstop energy. For fans of genre-defying sounds, this is a concert you can’t afford to miss.
Troye Sivan, fresh off the release of his latest album Something to Give Each Other, is in top form. His infectious single “Rush” has been making waves, offering a perfect preview of the high-energy performance fans can expect. Sivan’s mastery of creating emotional yet danceable tracks makes his set a guaranteed highlight of the night. Fans will get to experience both new material and his iconic hits like “My My My!” and “Bloom,” all infused with his trademark euphoric style.
Charli XCX, always pushing the boundaries of pop music, will bring her unique sound and visual aesthetic to the stage as well. With hits like “Vroom Vroom” and “Boom Clap,” she is known for turning concerts into full-throttle experiences. Charli’s futuristic pop combined with her unapologetically bold attitude ensures her set will be a sonic and visual feast. Her recent collaborations with artists across the pop spectrum only add more fire to her already electric presence. Brat summer will extend into the fall this month!
Supporting these pop powerhouses is the genre-bending Shygirl, whose experimental approach to music blends elements of hyperpop, hip-hop, and electronic. Shygirl’s unique style is the perfect complement to Charli and Troye, setting the stage for an eclectic and dynamic show.
This tour is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of pop music in all its forms—blending mainstream appeal with experimental edge. For Chicagoans, the United Center will become the ultimate party as Troye Sivan and Charli XCX bring their vision to life. Tickets are all sold-out so hopefully you got yours before it was too late!
CHARLI XCX & TROYE SIVAN PRESENT: SWEAT TOUR DATES
Sat Sep 14, 2024 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
Kacey Musgraves levitates into the air during a memorable opening to her Chicago performance at the Allstate Arena on September 12, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
“High Horse” singer Kacey Musgraves rode into Rosemont, Illinois last night with her unmistakable charisma, leaving fans at the Allstate Arena thoroughly charmed. On tour supporting her 2024 album Deeper Well, the country-pop queen managed to sprinkle in her signature humor, levitate (yes, you read that right), and dish on Chicago’s finest foods—all while delivering one of the most memorable sets of the year.
For the somehow uninitiated, Musgraves is a genre-defying singer-songwriter whose rise to stardom was kickstarted by her 2013 breakout hit Follow Your Arrow. Since then, she’s collected a slew of Grammy Awards, melted hearts with her ethereal 2018 album Golden Hour, one of the most complete and perfect LPs, and is now back with Deeper Well, a project that dives into emotional depths with as much honesty as her fans have come to love.
Cardinal Takes Flight
Musgraves opened her 20-song set with “Cardinal,” and, no big deal, casually levitated toward the stars (and somehow without any visible wires). As her video backdrop displayed a stunning starry night, the “Star-Crossed” singer gave us another reason to believe she might actually be otherworldly. The crowd went wild, though to be fair, flying isn’t even the most impressive thing she did—her vocals and songwriting might still take the cake there.
A & B, Plus a Little S-Z-A Midway through the set, Musgraves made her way to a B-stage in the middle of the general admission floor, giving fans a closer look (some maybe a little too close). Decked out in a low-cut dress, she joked, “I’m pretty sure some of you behind me can see my butt cheeks, I should have charged y’all extra.” It was this blend of wit and warmth that made her set feel intimate, even in the massive arena.
On the B-stage, she stripped things down with heartfelt performances of Follow Your Arrow, Family Is Family, The Architect, and a surprise cover of SZA’s Kill Bill. The latter was made even more special when she brought out her tour’s opening act, Nickel Creek, to join her. It’s not every day you hear a country star tackle a moody R&B revenge anthem, but leave it to Musgraves to pull it off.
Deep Well and Deeper Dish In between songs, Musgraves made sure to give some love to Chicago’s famous food. Craving for a Chicago style hot dog and some Pequod’s Pizza, the “Deeper Well” singer told the crowd “that s***t’s deep”, speaking on the deep dish pizza. The humor continued, a signature trait of hers, even when she delivered emotionally charged songs like Golden Hour. For instance, in the final moments of that track, she cheekily swapped out the words “golden hour” for “golden shower,” much to the crowd’s delight.
Confirmed Chappell Stan One of the night’s best moments came near the end when she followed a beautiful cover of Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club with her chart-topping anthem High Horse. Watching Musgraves transition from a sultry ballad to the upbeat, disco-infused hit had the entire arena up on their feet, dancing like it was a Friday night at Chappell’s now famous fictional club.
No Encore, But Maybe? Musgraves closed out her set with Deeper Well and Rainbow, though she hilariously admitted she wouldn’t call it an encore because they’re too planned. “But,” she quipped, “it’d be funny if I came out after anyway, right?” While she didn’t do a second appearance, her humor kept the vibe light, leaving everyone with the perfect mix of emotions as the night drew to a close.
From the incredible production (including that mind-boggling levitation) to the stripped-down B-stage moments, Kacey Musgraves’ performance felt like a journey—one that was as deep as a well and as high as a horse. And if you missed it, well, next time she rolls into town, you might want to follow your arrow straight to the box office.
Dylan Gossett’s homecoming show at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater last night was nothing short of electrifying. The 25-year-old Austin-native brought an infectious energy to the iconic Austin venue, blending his Americana roots with a modern twist that has made him a rising star in the country music scene. Performing under the open sky at Stubb’s, a venue renowned for its laid-back, rustic vibe and Texas barbecue, Gossett’s soulful melodies felt right at home. The crowd, packed into the 2,200-person standing-room venue, welcomed him with open arms, and from the first note, it was clear that this performance was going to be something special.
One of the obvious highlights of the evening was Gossett’s performance of his breakout hit “Coal,” which was hotter than the Texas barbecue served just steps away from the crowd. The crowd immediately embraced the familiar tune, proving that this hometown crowd knows their Austin-native star well.
Additionally he performed fan favorites like “Bitter Winds” and “Lone Ole Cowboy,” each song layered with raw emotion and sincerity. You could feel the connection between Gossett and his audience, a mix of his local Day 1 followers and new fans who have been swept up in his meteoric rise.
Stubb’s, with its open-air, creekside atmosphere, brought an extra layer of authenticity to the performance. There’s something magical about hearing Gossett croon about “Beneath Oak Trees” under actual oak trees, surrounded by Austin’s natural beauty. If there’s any venue that could match Gossett’s grounded, earthy sound, it’s this one.
When Dylan performed “To Be Free,” it felt like the anthem of the night, resonating with a sense of liberation that only live music can bring. Gossett’s Texas roots shone through in every strum of his guitar and every lyric, reminding everyone just why this 25-year-old singer-songwriter has quickly become a rising star.
All in all, last night at Stubb’s was more than just a concert, it was a homecoming celebration of Gossett’s journey, Austin’s music scene, and the undeniable bond between artist and audience. If you missed this show, you missed more than just great music, you missed the heart of Austin.
Check out of photos from photographer Camryn Hutchens below!
Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit helped wrap up Ravinia’s impressive 2024 season last night with a masterclass in Americana, offering a night of soul-searching lyrics and spine-tingling melodies under the stars. With the Pavilion and lawn packed with Isbell’s Chicagoland fans, the singer’s anticipated return to the festival felt more like a private intimate set than a performance for thousands. Having played here before, both he and opener Alejandro Escovedo proved to be Ravinia alumni who understand the unique charm of this venue.
Isbell kicked off his set with “24 Frames,” immediately grabbing the audience’s attention with a song that perfectly encapsulates his ability to turn personal reflection into something universal. He quickly followed it up with “Save the World” and “King of Oklahoma,” selections from his 2023 Grammy-winning album Weathervanes. The new tracks stood proudly alongside fan-favorite older songs, showing just how seamlessly Isbell continues to evolve as both a songwriter and performer. As the night progressed, Isbell’s rich vocals and searing guitar solos were beautifully complemented by the tight musicianship of The 400 Unit. Together, they create a sound that’s both deeply intimate and capable of filling a venue as large and open as Ravinia.
For those unfamiliar with Isbell’s journey, he first gained prominence as a member of Drive-By Truckers before forging a solo career that would cement him as one of the greatest storytellers of his generation. A six-time Grammy winner, Isbell’s music blends rock, country, and folk, making him a stalwart of the Americana genre. His sobriety and personal growth have been key themes in his work, particularly on the album Southeastern, which propelled him to critical acclaim. Fast forward to today, and his latest release, Weathervanes, continues his tradition of introspective, heart-wrenching storytelling, tackling themes of love, loss, and redemption.
The audience was treated to a full spectrum of emotions as Isbell moved through his 19-song set. Songs like “Cover Me Up” — a staple of his catalog and a declaration of love and sobriety — hit just as hard as ever, bringing an emotional crescendo to the end of his main set. Isbell’s ability to captivate with his lyrics, particularly lines like “I sobered up, and I swore off that stuff,” resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom sang along, their voices rising to meet the starry sky.
Of course, no night would be complete without a surprise or two. Isbell’s three-song encore began with a heartfelt cover of The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven,” which he injected with his own Americana flair, giving the iconic tune a warm, acoustic feel. He followed it with “Cast Iron Skillet,” a poignant track from Weathervanes, before closing out the night with “Miles,” leaving the audience in a contemplative mood.
Before Isbell and The 400 Unit took the stage, Alejandro Escovedo delivered a 10-song set that served as the perfect primer for the night. Escovedo, whose career has spanned punk, rock, and roots music, brought an infectious energy to songs like “John Conquest” and “Castanets.” Escovedo, like Isbell, is no stranger to Ravinia, and his performance was entertaining and familiar.
Ravinia itself added its usual magic to the night. There’s something special about seeing a show at North America’s oldest music festival, where lawn chairs and picnic baskets blend with world-class performances. The intimacy of the Pavilion, combined with the communal atmosphere of the lawn, makes every concert here a unique experience. Isbell’s music, with its themes of self-reflection and connection, felt right at home.
This was one of the final big shows of the season, and as the night drew to a close, there was a sense of bittersweetness in the air — not only because Isbell’s set was over, but because it marked the end of another unforgettable Ravinia summer.
If you weren’t at this show, you missed out on a master storyteller at the height of his powers, backed by one of the tightest bands in the business. But don’t worry, Isbell’s music — like a perfect summer night at Ravinia — will stay with you long after the final note fades.
Check out of photos from photographer Linda O’Connell below!
Last night, the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL, was transformed into a nostalgic paradise as TLC and Shaggy took the stage for a night of throwback hits and feel-good vibes. With a lineup like this, you couldn’t help but ask, “What About Your Friends?” because they should have been right there with you, reliving the ’90s and early 2000s.
Despite many expecting TLC to headline, the legendary group kicked off the evening at 7:30 PM. The moment Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins and Rozonda ‘Chilli’ Thomas stepped on stage, the crowd was hit with an overwhelming wave of nostalgia. The duo, back in action after T-Boz’s recent health scare, showed no signs of slowing down. Opening with “Ain’t 2 Proud 2 Beg,” TLC immediately reminded us why they’re icons of the R&B scene.
The setlist was a mix of their greatest hits, including “What About Your Friends,” “Red Light Special,” and of course, the timeless “Waterfalls.” Each song brought back memories of cassette tapes, MTV music videos, and those middle school dance moments where you pretended you didn’t care about “No Scrubs,” but you totally did.
T-Boz, who recently overcame an abdominal blockage, delivered a performance that was nothing short of inspiring, not missing a beat. Her vocals were strong, and her energy was infectious. And let’s not forget Chilli, who brought the heat with her flawless dance moves and ageless beauty. Together, they proved that even decades later, they still have what it takes to “Creep” into our hearts.
Following TLC’s stellar performance, Shaggy took to the stage as the night’s headliner—a surprise to many but a welcome one. The reggae-fusion artist, known for his smooth voice and cheeky lyrics, immediately set the tone with his opening track, “Mood.”
Shaggy’s set was nothing short of a party, filled with hits that had the audience dancing in their seats and on the lawn. From “Boombastic” to “Angel,” the crowd was transported to a Caribbean paradise, even if we were just in Highland Park. His cover of Mungo Jerry’s “In The Summertime” was a delightful addition, bringing that summer festival vibe to life.
One of the highlights of Shaggy’s set was his humorous interaction with the audience. Despite repeatedly referring to the venue as “Ravina” instead of Ravinia, Shaggy’s charm and wit won everyone over. By the time he launched into “It Wasn’t Me” for the double billing’s encore, the entire venue was singing along, proving that some songs are truly timeless.
His rendition of Eddy Grant’s “Electric Avenue” added an extra spark to the night, and his performance of “Luv Me Luv Me” had everyone swaying. Shaggy might have been expected to open, but he delivered a headlining set that felt like a Jamaican carnival—full of life, energy, and irresistible rhythms.
Ravinia Festival provided the perfect setting for this night of nostalgia. Known for its unique atmosphere, Ravinia is not just a concert venue—it’s an experience. The sprawling lawn, picnic-friendly policies, and intimate pavilion seating make it a beloved spot for music lovers.
There’s something magical about watching a concert under the stars, surrounded by trees and fellow fans. As the music played, the crowd relaxed on their blankets, sipped wine, and let the good vibes wash over them.
TLC and Shaggy delivered a night that was as much about reminiscing as it was about celebrating the present. For anyone who grew up with these artists on their mixtapes, last night was a reminder of why we fell in love with their music in the first place.
As the crowd dispersed into the night, you could hear echoes of “Waterfalls” and “It Wasn’t Me” mingling with the laughter and chatter of satisfied concertgoers. Ravinia, with its unique charm, had once again hosted a night to remember. If you missed it, don’t be a scrub next time!
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