Thee Sacred Souls • Astyn Turr • January 22, 2025 • The Union Events Center
Reviewed and Photographed by Paige May
On January 22, 2025, The Union Event Center located in Salt Lake City, Utah hosted the beloved Thee Sacred Souls, a band with an expansive range of timeless music genres such as soul, funk, and R&B, drawing inspiration from the 1960s and 1970s. Their sound is best compared to Al Green, Curtis Mayfield, and The Stylistics with modern touches, therefore collecting widespread admiration, bringing a feel of nostalgia, and creating an atmosphere that resonates across many generations. Prior to joining the group, the talented vocalist Astyn Turr played as a solo act with similar characteristics, but with a hint of pop influences.
Well before doors opened, fans gathered in the queue, the line long enough to wrap around the block. Despite the frigid temperature of Utah’s brisk January weather, fans remained undeterred, huddling together to endure the cold in eager anticipation of experiencing Thee Sacred Souls. As they waited outside, the crowd buzzed with excitement, eagerly discussing their shared enthusiasm for the band’s soothing, retro-inspired sound. Although Thee Sacred Souls formed only in 2019, their rapid rise to prominence and loyal fanbase is a testament to their undeniable talent. Fans—whether new to the band or long-time followers—bonded over their shared appreciation for the group’s distinctive style.
As 7:00 PM approached, attendees slowly made their way into the venue, both trying to escape the cold as well as attempting to find the best spot closest to the stage. Many also took the opportunity to visit the merchandise booth, where a tour-exclusive t-shirt was being sold. It was worthy of noting that the proceeds from the shirt were being donated to support underfunded communities displaced by the California wildfires.
This gesture did not go unnoticed and many did not hesitate to make the purchase. The sense of generosity and social awareness among both musicians and the audience really set a meaningful tone for the evening, showing that this community wasn’t afraid to help support those in need during desperate times. This energy continued to carry on throughout the rest of the evening, leaving people feeling fulfilled and also encouraged to love one another. Fans made their way to their desired spots amongst the crowd, they continued talking amongst themselves and forming friendships with each other, talking about their shared excitement for what was to come.
Astyn Turr
As 8:00 PM rolled around, the house lights dimmed and the stage was graced by the beautifully talented Astyn Turr, who appeared in an elegant black dress paired with a fluffy cow print bucket hat. A fellow audience member yelled “I love your hat!” prompting her to greet the crowd with a warm smile. The audience responded with enthusiastic cheers as Astyn proceeded to begin her more intimate solo set. With her guitar in hand, she effortlessly captivated the crowd with her smooth, rich vocals.
Astyn opened her performance with her unique renditions of well-known songs, including Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears. She then transitioned into a collection of original material filled with heart-wrenching ballads and deeply emotional tracks. Her relatable lyrics resonated with the audience, soothing them with raw honesty.
At one point, she was joined on stage by Viane Escobar, her fellow backing vocalist from Thee Sacred Souls and roommate, for a stunning duet. Together, the duo sang with breathtaking harmonies, seamlessly blending together and leaving the crowd in awe. After Vianes’ departure, Astyn continued on with her set, wooing the audience and showcasing her wide range and vocal control, further mesmerizing the audience. At one point she then encouraged the crowd to sing along by teaching lyrics, creating a sense of connection amongst them.
Astyn charmed fellow concert-goers, creating an atmosphere of unity and reflection, leaving audience members emotionally impacted and forming a deep bond with our beloved city. She thanked the crowd, promising that she’d return and will be joined with her fellow headlining group, leaving the crowd ready for more.
Thee Sacred Souls
Tension began to build, the crowd growing more and more filled with excitement and readiness for the main act of the evening. People who had seen Thee Sacred Souls were thrilled to attend the show again, knowing that the energy and involvement amongst attendees and the band is always something to look forward to.
As the house lights went dim once more, the stage was bathed in a soft blue light. One by one, the band made their way to the stage, starting with the brass instruments. The crowd erupted into applause as each musician made their way to the stage, with familiar faces like Sal Samano (Bass), Alex Garcia (Drums), Shay Stulz (Guitar), Riley Dunn (Piano/Keys) followed by the previous performers Astyn Turr and Viane Escobar (backing vocalist).
Excitement ensued and the band welcomed the audience by indulging in a brief jam session to build anticipation. The atmosphere reached a high as the one and only Josh Lane (lead vocalist) took the spotlight, opening with the solo song “Lucid Girl.” Fans cheered loudly and sang along, as Josh danced across the stage and sent a warm smile to the crowd to welcome everyone. As the song drew to a close, Josh took a moment to greet and thank the audience for having them again, then followed it with the next song.
Josh made an unexpected, electrifying move – stepping to the edge of the stage and taking a deep breath, then leaping across the pit in between the stage landing with precision onto the barricade. Fans gasped, both in shock and awe as Josh was just within inches of them and continued to engage with audience members. He began singing with individual people and made his way from one side of the barricade to the other.
For first-time concertgoers, this was an exciting moment and invited them to feel drawn in and involved with Josh’s enthusiastic and infectious stage presence. This energy continued for the remainder of the show, including Josh jumping further into the crowd, fans losing sight of him until he was walking within feet of them at the ground level of the venue. “Running Away” played as he perused through the crowd, ensuring no section was left out. Phones were lifted up into the air surrounding him as the crowd recorded their close encounter with him.
Eventually, Josh made his way back to the front of house and turned towards the crowd leaving them engaged as he continued to sing. He then made his way back to the stage and collectively they continued to play both old and new songs off of their newly released album “Got A Story To Tell.” At one point the band joined in unison by getting more comfortable, setting the tone for “Happy And Well” sung as a duet by Josh and Astyn, their voices soothing and pairing together effortlessly in harmony. Following this, Josh took a moment to address the audience before introducing their next solo song, “Live For You.”
His speech was inspiring, urging the crowd to love themselves, love their neighbors, and to always show up for others when needed. The heartfelt message resonated deeply. From there, they transitioned into “I’m So Glad That I Found You, Baby” and encouraged the crowd to sing along by singing “i’m so glad that I found you, i’m so glad that you found me” This moment only added to the intimacy of the performance, strengthening the connection between the band and the crowd.
As the band prepared to leave the stage, they expressed their gratitude to the audience, but the night wasn’t over quite yet. The crowd erupted in cheers, “encore” being heard throughout the venue, audience members not ready for the night to be over. In response, the band made an appearance once more. They brought more energy than before, playing an additional two songs and wrapping the night up with their top single “Can I Call You Rose?” before bidding their final goodbyes.
Thee Sacred Souls and Astyn Turr delivered an unforgettable performance, leaving fans with a renewed sense of admiration and affection for the band. This was a show that will surely be remembered for years to come. Any opportunity to see this band live is highly recommended, as it’s one of the most engaging and exhilarating performances you can experience.