The Volunteers (더 발룬티어스, also known as TVT) is an alternative rock band hailing from Seoul, South Korea. The group comprises Yerin Baek (vocals and guitar), Jonny (guitar), and Chiheon Kim (drums). Formed in 2018, TVT quickly garnered a dedicated fan base by uploading self-produced demos on SoundCloud, which amassed over 3 million streams. Their self-made music video also accumulated over a million views, generating significant interest well before their official debut in 2021.
Their debut, self-titled album “The Volunteers,” was a tremendous success, earning three nominations at the prestigious Korean Music Awards. This acclaim catapulted the band into the limelight, cementing their reputation as a powerhouse in the alternative rock scene.
On their North American tour, The Volunteers graced the stage at Houston’s House of Blues for the 10th stop of their 26-stop tour. The venue was filled with eager fans who had long awaited their live performance. The band kicked off the show with their song “Violet,” a track that beautifully captured the lead singer’s soft, enchanting voice complemented by the powerful instrumentals.
Between songs, Yerin took a moment to introduce herself and the band. She shared that this was TVT’s first time performing in Houston, though she had visited the city before on a solo tour. Her revelation that the entire band were big fans of Houston was met with enthusiastic cheers from the intimate crowd.
The Volunteers continued to play songs from their new album, “L,” including “Psycho,” “Starfish on Your Head,” and “L,” each track showcasing the band’s diverse musical styles and unique sound. The energy in the room reached its peak when they performed the fan-favorite song “Summer,” with the audience singing along to every word.
Despite the intimate setting, the admiration for the band was palpable throughout the night. Fans sang in unison, creating a harmonious atmosphere that resonated with both the band and the audience. The members of TVT also received several gifts from the audience, a testament to the deep connection they share with their fans.
To wrap up a magical evening, The Volunteers brought out a custom flag that read “The Volunteers North America Tour 2024 HOUSTON” and took a memorable picture on stage with the Houston crowd. This gesture capped off an unforgettable night, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the band’s next visit.
Overall, The Volunteers have proven themselves as a force in the alternative rock genre, captivating audiences with their heartfelt performances and genuine connection with their fans. Their North American tour, and particularly their show in Houston, showcased their musical prowess and the deep bond they share with their audience.