We Moved Like The Ocean

May 5, 2015 // A&R Music Bar in Columbus, Ohio

In the cramped pit of the LC Pavilion in the heart of the Arena District as I anxiously awaited The 1975 was the first time I experienced Bad Suns. And to be completely honest, I was underwhelmed. Their set was subpar compared to the first opener and they seemed rushed and showy. Later that summer, the band released their debut album Language & Perspective (Vagrant Records) which impressed far beyond my initial impressions. Exactly one year later, the Southern California quartet returned to the Arch City to headline their own show and I'm honored to say they killed it.

The night began with local group Indigo Wild, who charmed the crowd with their indie rock sound and meaningful lyrics that made me feel nostalgic about things I have never experienced. The real gem of their set was the power anthem "Rowboats" which highlights this group's strengths, their dynamic harmonies, smooth rhythm, and strong percussion. Indigo Wild is genuine through and through with songs that are full of spirit and unique to the core. Their energy was infectious and a solid way to begin the evening.

Second to perform were Californian alternative rockers Kiev. Gracing the stage with a set from their latest Falling Bough Wisdom Teeth, their music was hypnotizing and intricate with an obvious attention to detail. Kiev also performed their song "Be Gone Dull Cage", written for the fifth season premiere of The Walking Dead, a song of grit and nostalgia. This five piece, led by singer and guitarist Robert Brinkerhoff, organically combines psychedelic funk, indie, and jazz styles with effortless ease.

As the main attraction, Bad Suns, finally rolled out to the stage, the crowd was ready for them. These Los Angles indie rockers took the stage with power, eager to perform. Lead singer Christo Bowman, along with bandmates Miles Morris on drums, Ray Libby on lead guitar, and Gavin Bennet on bass, took the audience on a whirlwind trip through their debut album. Language & Perspective is the epitome of an indie rock love child, with clear inspiration from the hits of the 80's and the early 00's alternative scene, a hint of dance-punk, and hits it's highs in it's catchy lyrics and funky smooth melodies. 

Opening with the ever angsty and upbeat "Transpose", Bad Suns transitioned swiftly through their set to the rhythmic and "Dancing on Quicksand" and the anthemic and groovy "Pretend". Bad Suns are performers at heart and truly know how to entertain. Bowman, an alternative age heartthrob, indulging the crowd with enviable falsettos and roaring guitar solos. 

This show's high points were in their last three songs, their first single "Cardiac Arrest", "We Move Like The Ocean", and "Salt". With their set drawing to a close, Bad Suns let out all of the stops. Bad Sun's fanbase is small but mighty, their voices near drowning out the sounds of Bowman and his crew. In those last few songs, those in the crowd truly did move like the ocean, jumping and swaying to the sounds of the Los Angeles natives. Their west coast roots ran deep from beginning to end, the guys exuding that endless summer vibe all night long. With such a 360 improvement from our last encounter, I expect nothing but great things in Bad Suns' future. 

xx. Sheridan