Utah Concert Review

Milk Carton Kids w/ Katie Pruitt• November 4, 2022• The Commonwealth Room

There’s something special about being in a room with hundreds of people, silently listening to music. It’s rare. Well, it feels rare. I feel like there are always some people who just can’t help but strike up a conversation. Even though the musicians they paid good money for are standing on the stage in front of them. But on November 4, 2022, the audience at The Commonwealth Room was ghost town silent. The only sound to be heard was the music of the folk duo, The Milk Carton Kids.

Mike Campbell and the Dirty Knobs w/ Alvin Youngblood• Hart October 18, 2022• The Commonwealth Room

Reviewed and Photographed by Alisha Gregson

On Tuesday, October 18th, Mike Campbell and the Dirty Knobs brought their tour in support of the band’s new album External Combustion, to the Commonwealth Room in Salt Lake City. Even if you have never heard Mike Campbell’s name before, you are likely already familiar with many of his songs. In his over 40 years as lead guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Campbell co-wrote many songs with Petty. Including “Runnin’ Down a Dream” and “Refugee.” As an incredibly talented guitar player, Campbell also played on studio albums for other artists including Bob Dylan, Stevie Nicks, and Johnny Cash. After Tom Petty passed away, Mike Campbell continued to find opportunities to play for a crowd. Including his time spent on tour with Fleetwood Mac. 

Carly Rae Jepson w/ Empress Of• October 14, 2022• The Union

Reviewed and Photographed by Tomo Crestani

The Union Event Center hosted Carly Rae Jepsen on The So Nice Tour. With support from Empress Of, Carly brought a lot of energy to Salt Lake City. Although not a super crowded show, there were still many avid fans who were clearly enjoying their time there that night. Carly’s fanbase seems to be heavily populated with members of the LGBTQ+ community. There were a large number of people there from this community. Although this may have not been the most popular concert at this venue, it was still a good time for those in attendance. 

Alexander 23 w/ Renforshort & Grace Enger• October 11, 2022• The Complex

Reviewed and Photographed by Tomo Crestani

Alexander 23 brought out a solid crowd to The Complex this past week. With support from Renforshort and Grace Enger, there was plenty of music to be entertained by. It is always fun to have a show with 3 artists performing. Especially when they all have such entertaining sets. This was my second time seeing Renforshort, however, I had never seen Alexander 23 or Grace live. I actually wasn’t aware that Grace was performing until I arrived at the show, which was a pleasant surprise. 

Panic! At the Disco • October 13, 2022• Vivint Arena

Reviewed and Photographed by Alisha Gregson

On Thursday, October 13, Panic! At the Disco brought their Viva Las Vengeance tour to Salt Lake City’s Vivint arena. The Las Vegas pop rock band that once consisted of multiple members is now a solo project for Brendon Urie. Accompanied by a group of talented touring musicians, Urie spent the evening entertaining thousands of his fans with his incredible vocals. Known for his on-stage swagger and impressive four-octave vocal range, fans arrived with high expectations, ready for a fun night.