By: Jon Harrison
Many dreamy indie bands dominate today’s music scene, but few are as notable and recognizable as Wallows. This Los Angeles-based trio has been on a steady rise since their EP Spring. Fronted by Dylan Minnette, with Braeden Lemasters on guitar and Cole Preston on drums, Wallows has built a massive and growing fan base, becoming a marquee name since the release of their 2019 debut album, Nothing Happens. With their latest album, Model, the band has been touring across the country, including a recent stop at the Smart Financial Center in Sugar Land, Texas.
The show kicked off behind a curtain, with Do Not Wait building anticipation before the curtain finally dropped for Your Apartment. From the first note, it was impossible not to be swept up in the band's aura, which perfectly captured the dreamy, angst-filled vibe of Los Angeles, almost like stepping into a movie. The set was filled with memorable moments—during She’s an Actress, Dylan made his way through the crowd, and the B-stage portion featured an incredible stripped-back version of Pictures of Girls that left me wishing it was available on streaming to play on repeat. The show concluded with a powerful encore of Remember When and I Don’t Want to Talk.
What’s exciting about watching a band like Wallows grow is seeing them stay true to their identity, even as they evolve. Hearing Are You Bored Yet? live is always a treat, but there’s something special about seeing these guys perform in a smaller venue, which evokes their roots before they inevitably transition to arena-sized stages. Whatever comes next for Wallows is sure to be big, and I can’t wait to see it.
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