Two up and coming alternative pop bands from Australia, Stand Atlantic and The Faim, have joined forces for a huge tour through the United States. I was a little reluctant to be packed in the Cambridge Room at the House of Blues with a bunch of screaming Gen Z-ers, but I have to say, this show was probably one of the most lively and genuinely entertaining shows I’ve been to in a long time. Their caliber of music should’ve placed them in the Music Hall rather than the Cambridge Room; however, the room wasn’t even close to being packed. There’s no doubt that these bands will continue to explode and probably be selling out the Music Hall within a few years. This was yet another show that reminds me why I love going to concerts.

Starting off the night, promptly at 7pm, was alt rock group Hold Close. They came out with a ton of energy for the small crowd and kept it up the entire show as if the room was packed to the brim. These Missouri rockers are bound to be successful with the amount of passion they show on stage and how well they perform live.

The second opener of the night was English pop-punk band, WSTR. Despite their well known criticism of being a rip-off of fellow English pop-punk band, Neck Deep, WSTR is very much a unique band. They may sound extremely similar to Neck Deep, but you’ve got to see their insane energy on stage for yourself. They put everything they have into their songs and they do a kickass job entertaining the crowd. Their confidence and crowd engagement is something you’ve got to see in person. I guarantee that you’ll enjoy watching all of their antics on stage.

Up next was the first co-headliner Australian rockers, The Faim. In just about three years, these extremely talented guys have gained a huge following and been a part of huge tours. It’s exciting to see them headlining. During their set, the crowd size nearly doubled! That goes to show how great their music is and how much people enjoy their music. Their sound was flawless and they were extremely engaging with the intimate crowd. There’s not much more you can ask for from a live performance.

Last but not least, the second co-headliner, Stand Atlantic, took the stage around 9:30pm. Although the crowd size died down a bit, the energy was still there! They had a cool light design that added to the overall effect of their set. I didn’t come into the show as a huge fan of their music, but they sure did impress me on stage. Their sound was so much more authentic when they perform live and less generic sounding as it is recorded. I left as a fan of this band and I will definitely be seeing them live again next time they make their rounds of the United States. I know they will keep blowing up and have continued success.
– Lauren Frederick
– click to enlarge photos –