After months of touring, Tate McRae finished off her North America Tour in Salt Lake City. She visited The Complex in the Grand room. I arrived about 30 minutes before doors were supposed to open. The line was already very long. Although it was mostly females waiting for the show, I did spot a surprising amount of male attendees waiting in the rain. It was very impressive to see so many devoted fans waiting in the poor weather for so long.
The Soundwell buzzed with excitement as I entered the doors Thursday night. The crowd gathered closer to the barricade at the front of the stage as Lexi Jayde introduced herself. I could feel the excitement of the fans as she began to explain the story of her music. She opened with her new single “Self Sabotage”. She really connected with members of the crowd who have recently gone through a breakup. Revving up the energy saying “You f**king got this! Whoever needed to hear that. I love you so much.”
Let me start off by saying that Hippo Campus is my favorite band and seeing them live is always something indescribable for me. But I will try my best to be objective! On Saturday, April 2, 2022, Hippo Campus returned to Salt Lake City, Utah after three years! I can’t even believe it had been that long since the last time they were here. But you know, thanks Covid. It was an exciting night because up to this point this would be their biggest headlining show to date. I think that’s quite an honor!
April 12, 2022—Red Butte Garden released its Outdoor Concert Series lineup today, confirming plans to host a full summer season featuring more than 30 world-renown bands, artists, and performers. Executive director Derrek Hanson and his team are looking forward to welcoming guests back to this popular venue in the Salt Lake City foothills. “We are more than ready to get back to filling the amphitheatre with guests and music—and based on the inquiries we’re getting, we think our guests are ready, too,” said Hanson. He added that this season should have a little something for everyone with a lineup that includes alternative-indie, pop, rock, and folk music.
The Complex was host to a sold-out Denzel Curry show Saturday night. On just the second date of his US tour, fans of the rap artist quickly filled up the Rockwell room. It was only a short wait after doors opened until PlayThatBoiZay took the stage as the opening act. He was a great first act and immediately got the crowd’s energy up. He was a rager and his tracks had everyone jumping and vibing even without knowing the lyrics.
Princess Goes to the Butterfly Museum w/ Lorelei K• March 30, 2022• Metro Music Hall
Reviewed and Photographed by Alisha Gregson
Photo Credit: Alisha Gregson
I wasn’t sure what to expect as I pulled up to the Metro Music Hall. But I showed up with my camera and an open mind. The only thing I knew about Princess Goes to the Butterfly Museum was that the lead singer, Michael C. Hall, is the star of the popular show Dexter. The show has been on my ‘to watch” list for years now, but I have yet to watch it. Despite not knowing much about the band I was excited to be there and was ready to be entertained.
Fresh off their performance on Jimmy Kimmel days prior, Wilderado did not disappoint with their visit to Salt Lake City. The Soundwell was a new venue for me, and I enjoyed my first visit more than I expected. Being a smaller venue, I figured it would be rundown or have issues that distract from the show. However, the Soundwell is very well kept and was a perfect place to spend a night out. The sound quality was on par with the larger venues I have visited and the staff was very helpful and kind.
Preceding their album of the same name, Journey’s Freedom Tour is underway. It should come as no surprise that Vivint Arena in downtown Salt Lake City was packed for the rock n roll hall of famers. I can’t think of a Journey concert whether it be out at USANA Amphitheatre or here at Vivint Arena that wasn’t overflowing with fans. Journey is one of the most beloved bands in Utah. People of all ages have taken to their music, and their concerts show it. With every song, I could hear the echo of the crowd’s collective voice singing along. These guys have been doing it for years. They’re true professionals. I can’t imagine playing to an engaged audience like the one on Thursday, March 24 could ever get old.
I’ve been asked on numerous occasions if concerts are boring to me now or if they’re watered down because I’ve been to so many. The answer is always no. I’m never bored of live music and I don’t think I ever will be. The old adage in theater is that no show is ever the same. I think the same goes for concerts. The setlist might be the same, the lyrics are the same, even the venue might always be the same. But each show has a life of its own.
That was never more evident than on March 23, 2022.. I was invited to cover British popstar, Maisie Peter’s sold out show at Kilby Court in Salt Lake City. As I approached the venue I noticed an exceptionally long line. Keep in mind I arrived at Kilby Court about 5 minutes before the opener was scheduled to take the stage. I wondered what the delay was. My first thought was that there were so many people that it was taking longer to get them in than expected. But as I approached the box office I could tell it was something much different. There was no power!
Elle King w/ Lola Kirke• March 19, 2022 •The Depot
Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe
I’m embarrassed to say that prior to this concert I knew very little about Elle King. I knew the song “Ex’s and Oh’s”. It’s pretty hard to not know that song. It’s a really catchy, really good song. I knew she was Rob Schnieder’s daughter. And I knew she had a great voice. I think anyone who knows Elle King knows these three facts. The last time King was here in Salt Lake City she opened for Heart and Joan Jett. I wasn’t able to go to the show, but by numerous accounts, she about stole the thing. There always seemed to be a buzz when Elle King was coming to town. So I knew I needed to see her in concert. She is so much more than an SNL alums’ daughter, so much more than a voice, and so much more than one song.
