Even with Houston’s notorious heat trying to roast us alive, nothing could dampen the spirits of the crowd ready to see Bleachers. In support of their latest self-titled album, the New Jersey band brought their “From the Studio to the Stage” tour to the lawn at White Oak Music Hall on Saturday, June 1st, 2024.
The evening kicked off with singer-songwriter from New York City, Samia, who set a lovely and quirky tone for the evening. As she introduced her band members, she announced it was her keyboardist’s birthday and the crowd sang happy birthday in unison. She continued performing a variation of songs from her first album, “The Baby”, including my personal favorite, “Big Wheel”, and her latest album, “Honey”. If you have not checked out Samia’s music, what are you waiting for?
As Bleachers took the stage, a sign hanging above that said “RECORDING / STUDIO IN USE” suddenly lit up, signaling the start of the show. And there, standing proudly beneath it, was frontman Jack Antonoff, ready to lead us on a musical journey. The band opened with their latest album’s first track, “I Am Right On Time”, and just like that, the crowd was screaming, singing along and so ready to spend the evening with them. They followed with “Modern Girl”, where we got to experience an incredible saxophone duet, and then “Jesus Is Dead”.
As a frequent concert-goer, I normally do my research before seeing bands live. That includes watching interviews, listening to full discographies, and watching recordings of past performances. But this time, I didn’t. Something was telling me to just go and be surprised by it. And believe me, I was surprised (in the best way). I felt energized, glittery, and super sweaty. I was hoping they’d play my personal favorite, “Wake Me”. And after four songs, they did. This song is so special to me. I discovered it during the 2020 lockdown and immediately fell in love with it. A wave of nostalgia came over me, and I sang along with the rest of the crowd. I might’ve shed a tear or two. Or maybe it was just sweat.
The night wrapped up with fan favorites, ”I Wanna Get Better, “Don’t Take the Money”, and “Stop Making This Hurt,” a perfect closer that left everyone wanting more. After all, if there’s one thing that can make you forget the about the hot, sticky, humid Houston weather it’s a fantastic concert experience. And Bleachers delivered exactly that.
Until next time, Bleachers <3
Bleacher’s Houston Setlist:
1. I Am Right on Time
2. Modern Girl
3. Jesus Is Dead
4. How Dare You Want More
5. Wake Me
6. Everybody Lost Somebody
7. Goodmorning
8. Bullet (Steel Train cover)
9. Me Before You
10. Chinatown
11. Don’t Go Dark
12. Self Respect
13. Wild Heart
14. Rollercoaster
15. Let’s Get Married
16. All My Heroes (Jack solo acoustic)
17. 45 (Jack solo acoustic)
18. Ordinary Heaven
19. Tiny Moves
20. I Wanna Get Better
21. Don’t Take the Money
22. Stop Making This Hurt
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