Heavy hearts and talks stained with love filled the Valentine’s Day air Feb. 14 as fans were anxious to storm into the Subterranean, located in Wicker Park, to see the sold-out performance of Weatherbox, The Front Bottoms and headliner Bad Books.
Hailing from San Diego, Calif., Weatherbox was led onstage by lead singer Brian Warren. Few words were exchanged before the band quickly transitioned into their first song, “Two Satchels of Light.” The band’s ever-changing lineup prompted a set list that covered a wide range of music. In particular, new song “The Devil and Whom” surprised the crowd with its intricate guitar riffs and heavy lyrics. A moody set was capped off by two impressive renditions of “The Dreams” and “Broken Glowsticks.” After an abrupt thanks and goodbye wave, the opening band was finished and rookie sensations The Front Bottoms stormed the stage.
A steady clash from the drum set of Mathew Uychich was all it took before the crowd on hand burst with enjoyment and stomped their feet along to the beat. Shortly after, lead singer Brain Sella nestled into the first song of the set, “The Beers,” off the band’s 2011 self-titled release. Songs ranging in style rallied around the constant theme of young adulthood on the East Coast in the band’s hometown of Bergen County, N.J. After having exposed the cotton dresses hidden behind the band member’s clothes, the mood quickly adapted a lighthearted feel as words were continually exchanged between the audience and the band members throughout the set. With fans on the edge of their seats, the young sensations decided on ending a standout performance with fan favorite “Maps.” Moments after a roaring applause, the stage grew empty as an encore was loudly demanded, but alas, Bad Books now controlled the stage.
Anticipation engulfed the Subterranean as fans could hardly hold still while the various members of Bad Books, which include Kevin Devine and Andy Hull, set up. Shortly thereafter, the duo, with the help of a full band, leaped straight into the first song of the night, “The After Party,” off their 2012 album “II.” As the last note ceased to be heard, smiles illuminated from the audience as the members onstage gazed around the venue at the masses of people pouring over the balcony and onto the floor below. After joking of the difficulties of whistling live onstage, the band slowly started to play another groovy tune, “Forest Whitaker,” off of “II” as well. While a magnificent set ensued, Kevin Devine and Andy Hull each showcased their individual talents. To start off, Devine and Hull gracefully crafted a performance of the song “42,” which left the audience in awe. Not a second later, the angelic voice of Devine soothed the packed establishment with a stunning performance of “Ambivalent Peaks.” Just when the crowd thought that the night had ended, the duet rushed back onstage to leave fans with a rewarding performance of “Pytor.”
With a great appreciation for the fans and city of Chicago, both Devine and Hull raised their hands in thanks to the outpour of support from the countless fans who sold out the Subterranean that night.
