Slow Pulp has built up a reputation by opening for many staples in the indie rock genre such as Ethel Cain, The Pixies, Death Cab for Cutie, and Alvvays. With over 1.2 Million listeners on Spotify, the band has headlined a handful of tours across both the U.S. and Europe, with support from a variety of other Chicago based artists. On November 21st and 22nd, they took the stage at one of the city’s stand out venues, Thalia Hall, for two sold out crowds.

On night one, all three bands performing had one thing in common: their connection to the city. Opening acts Free Range and Bnny were both formed in Chicago and call the city home. Free Range adds a country twang that differentiates their sound from other bedroom pop bands, while Bnny filled the space with a soft & ethereal vocals and hard hitting lyrics. Each band was open with the audience creating an intimate atmosphere, whether you were towards the back by the bar or standing in the pit, the energy could be felt by all.

A standout moment of the night was the performance of Yard, their second album’s title track. After dedicating the song to all friends and family in the crowd, the tear-jerking performance was a reflection on the past and acted as a reminder to listeners to appreciate the time spent with loved ones. On a technical note, the lighting that filled the venue was an attention grabber, often surrounding the band instead of hitting them straight on, turning them into silhouettes of themselves. The effect was stunning in person and even better in photos.