X Ambassadors • New West • Rowan Drake • May 13, 2024 • The Depot

Reviewed and Photographed by Mike Ferguson

X Ambassadors Electrify the Stage with
A Night of Raw Passion and
Musical Mastery

On Monday, May 13th, the atmosphere at The Depot crackled with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited the arrival of X Ambassadors. As the lights dimmed and the stage ignited with energy, it became evident that this was no ordinary concert—it was a musical journey that would linger in our memories for years to come.

Rowan Drake

In a world where talent often feels manufactured and authenticity is a rare gem, Rowan Drake emerges as a breath of fresh air—a true artist whose passion and skill are evident from the moment he steps onto the stage. From the opening notes of his set, it was clear that Rowan possessed a rare gift. His voice, a rich and velvety instrument, effortlessly navigated through highs and lows, infusing each song with emotion and depth and delivered a performance that was nothing short of mesmerizing. He captivated the audience with his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, proving himself to be a rising star destined for greatness.

One of the most compelling aspects of Rowan’s performance was his ability to connect with the audience on a deeply personal level. Between songs, he shared anecdotes and insights into his life, inviting listeners into his world and forging an instant connection that transcended the boundaries of the stage. Which was particularly incredible considering he also mentioned it was only his 13th time performing in front of an audience like this. It was this authenticity that made his music resonate so deeply with those in attendance, transforming the concert into an intimate gathering of friends rather than a mere performance.

New West

The second act of the night featured New West—a band whose passion for their craft and reverence for the roots of Americana music shine through in every note they play. From the moment they took the stage, it was clear that they were on a mission to captivate hearts and minds with their infectious energy and timeless sound. From the jump they launched into their set with a fervor that was impossible to ignore, immediately drawing the audience into their world of storytelling and sonic exploration. 

One of the most striking aspects of New West’s performance was their ability to seamlessly blend elements of rhythm and blues, indie rock, and folk into a sound that felt both familiar and refreshingly original. Whether they were delivering foot-stomping barnburners that had the crowd jumping to the beat or soul-stirring ballads that brought tears to the eyes, New West showcased a musical prowess that belied their years and left the audience in awe.

But what truly set them apart was that there were no gimmicks or pretense here—just musicians pouring their hearts and souls into their music and inviting listeners to join them on an epic journey. It was this genuine love for their craft that made New West’s performance so compelling.

X Ambassadors

From the moment the band stepped onto the stage, they commanded attention with their undeniable presence. Lead vocalist Sam Harris’s vocals soared through the air with a raw intensity, captivating the audience from the very first note. His brother, Casey Harris, mesmerized on the keyboard, his fingers dancing effortlessly across the keys, infusing each song with a rich tapestry of sound.

One of the most incredible aspects of the performance was the seamless fusion of genres. X Ambassadors effortlessly transitioned from anthemic rock to soulful ballads, showcasing their versatility as musicians. Hits like “Renegades” and “Unsteady” had the crowd singing along in unison, while newer tracks like “Smoke On the Highway” from their latest album “Townie” added a fresh dynamic to the setlist.

But what truly set this concert apart was the palpable connection between the band and their fans. Whether it was Sam’s heartfelt interactions between songs or the genuine smiles exchanged between band members, there was an authenticity to the performance that resonated deeply with all of us in attendance. It was evident that X Ambassadors weren’t just performing for the crowd—they were sharing a piece of themselves, baring their souls through their music.

As the night drew to a close and the final chords reverberated through the venue, there was a collective sense of euphoria lingering in the air. X Ambassadors had not only delivered a phenomenal performance but had created an experience that transcended the confines of a typical concert. It was a celebration of music, of passion, and of the unbreakable bond between artist and audience.

In the end, X Ambassadors proved once again why they are one of the most exciting acts in the industry today. With their electrifying stage presence, unparalleled musicianship, and unwavering sincerity, they left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to be in attendance. And as the echoes of their final song “Jungle” faded into the night, it was clear that this was a concert that would be remembered by many for years to come.