Everyone has their live band bucket list: Green Day, Ed Sheeran, Weezer, etc. Although all of the bands on your bucket list are valid choices, here are a few bands you should consider adding to that list.
1. Walk the Moon
The band behind the 2014 hit, Shut Up and Dance, takes the stage with their captivating presence and synth madness. The line prior to doors opening wraps around the block and fans utilize their time by putting face paint on each other's faces, mirroring the band members. Waiting outside is an experience in itself, but as soon as the doors open, the audience gathers for a one-of-a-kind experience. Nick (singer), Sean (drummer), Kevin (bassist), and Eli (guitarist), leave their heart and soul on the stage of every venue. It is, by far, one of the most energetic performances in the world of live music. They leave their audience believing they can conquer the world with a message of love and unity. If seeing this band live was not on your bucket list before, they better be now.
(they also released new music on Friday and it's amazing)
2. AJR
With hits like Weak and Drama, AJR offers every audience a compelling and dynamic performance. The band's energy and chemistry radiates through the audience as the three piece band of brothers create an intriguing experience unlike any other. Their lead singer, Jack Met, demands the stage with his contagious energy alongside Adam and Ryan. Perhaps the most interesting and important part of their show is their ability to connect with their audience. If this band is not on your bucket list, you're making a big mistake.
3. DREAMERS
Along with their successful appearances on the Alt 18 with songs like Sweet Disaster and Painkiller, DREAMERS' live performances do not disappoint. Whether the show is a full production with lights, drums, and guitars or a stripped back acoustic set, this band shows their audience how deeply they believe in their music with every bone in their body. Their live performances captivate the audience and the crowd quickly becomes a sweaty mess of jumping bodies which the lead singer (and guitarist), Nick, tends to join. Jacob throws his drumsticks into the crowd and Marc Nelson's skills on the bass practically melt your face off. On and off stage the band proves to be genuine and kind individuals as they meet with fans after the show. Adding DREAMERS to you live band bucket list is one decision you will not regret.
4. The Griswolds
The Griswolds bring an edge to the live music scene with their ability to rock anyone's socks off. Songs like Be Impressive and Out of my Head bring a rare liveliness to the crowd as everyone sings, but mostly screams, the lyrics back to the band. Each show is intimate as the band makes an effort to embrace the crowd's energy at every possible moment. The Griswolds leave their fans with the message to choose love and to take a stand against the injustices we witness. Much like DREAMERS, this band's authentic stage presence carries over to when people meet them after the shows. People drive hours and travel to different states just to see The Griswolds live (including myself), there's got to be a reason, right? Add them to your live band bucket list.
5. Magic Man
Although Magic Man has been MIA for the past few years, this synth rockin' heart stoppin' band definitely deserves a place on your live band bucket list. Alex (lead singer) and Sam (guitarist) bring a vibrancy to every show that vibrates through each and every person. With hit songs like Paris and It All Starts Here, the crowd finds themselves singing and jumping along to every lyric. Alex Caplow is, by far, one of the best front men the music scene has ever witnessed. Dedicated fans wait for hours prior to every show just to get a good spot to stand in the venue. When this band makes it's big debut to the live music scene again, you'll want to be the first in line.
