Kevin Devine was the perfect missing piece when The Front Bottoms and Say Anything were on the hunt for an opening for their first headlining appearance at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Recognizable for his hit singles, Kevin Devine is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his introspective and emotionally charged music. Being born in Brooklyn, New York, Devine’s music often falls within the indie rock and folk genres, and his lyrics delve into personal experiences, social commentary, and philosophical themes. Devine began his musical career in the early 2000s but has gained attention from a multitude of new music over these past couple of years. His music blends heartfelt/poetic lyrics with acoustic and electric instrumentation. He’s known for his intricate guitar work and distinctive voice which he displayed beautifully this past Friday night.
Say Anything is an American rock band formed in 2000 in Los Angeles, California, founded by Max Bemis, serving as the primary lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter. Say Anything is known for their diverse musical style, incorporating elements of pop punk, indie rock, and emo into their sound. The band gained a loyal following with the release of their first album released in 2004 “Is a Real Boy”, which marked a turning point in their career. The album received critical acclaim for its intentional, yet clever and introspective lyrics but acted as a stepping stone to get their unique sound out in the world. Often associated with the mid-2000s emo and pop punk scene, their music frequently explores themes of love, mental health, and self-discovery. Their lyrics are often characterized by their honesty and vulnerability, resonating with listeners who connect with the emotional content.
Following the success of Is a Real Boy, Say Anything continued to release albums that showcased their evolving musical style. Some of their notable albums include In Defense of the Genre, Say Anything, and Hebrews. The band’s sound incorporated a range of influences, from punk to pop to experimental elements. Battling the constant struggles with mental health and personal challenges they harnessed these emotions and allowed them to be the central theme in their music. The band’s authenticity and willingness to address difficult topics contributed to their dedicated fanbase, which they made sure to explore during their show this past Friday at Red Rocks Amphitheater. Current band members are Max Bemis, Coby Linder, Parker Case, and Alexander Kent.
American indie rock band The Front Bottoms formed in the small town of Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Starting out as a self-described “acoustic pop punk” duo, they began performing and recording music together in the mid-2000s. The band’s spokesman Brian Sella on vocals/guitar and Mathew Uychich on drums have carried the band to new heights over the past couple of years by never letting the odds beat them down. Their music is often characterized by its heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and a mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation. Having gained a following for their energetic live performances and relatable, emotionally charged songs. Their early music was characterized by its DIY ethos, featuring simple arrangements and a focus on Sella’s heartfelt and often confessional lyrics. Coming out with the release of their self-titled album The Front Bottoms in 2011, they gained attention in the indie music scene. The album displayed a blend of folk-inspired acoustic elements and punk-influenced energy.
As the band continued to tour and release music, they gradually built a dedicated fanbase through their engaging live shows and the relatability of their songs. One of their most well-known songs, Twin Size Mattress, helped them gain nationwide recognition. Through consistent touring, strong songwriting, and a dedicated fanbase, “The Front Bottoms” have risen in prominence within the indie rock and alternative music scenes. Their ability to connect with listeners on a personal level and their energetic performances are direct indicators of their ongoing success.
Set List – B.O.K
The Front Bottoms – The Beers, West Virginia, Maps, Outlook, Emotional, Punching Bag, Fake Gold, Paris, Lonely Eyes, Joanie, Santa Monica, Wolfman, Be Nice To Me, Twelve Feet Deep, Peach, Cough It Out, The Pain, 2yL, Vacation Town, Montgomery Forever, Hello World, Leaf Pile, Bus Beat, Flashlight, and Twin Size Mattress
Say Anything – Alive With the Glory of Love, The Church Channel, Do Better, Woe, Six Six Six, A Walk Through Hell, Slowly, Through a Vector, Cemetery, Wow, I Can Get Sexual Too, Psyche, Yellow Cat – Red Cat, Ahhh Men, Every Man Has a Molly, and Admit It
Kevin Devine – Ballgame, Wolf’s Mouth, Noose Dressed Like a Necklace, Not Over You Yet, A Flatline Blur, Whistling Dixie, People Are So Fickle, Marie, Country Sky Glow, Longer That I’m Out Here, Tapdance, You’re My Incentive, Splitting Up Christmas, and Thanks
Websites
The Front Bottoms – https://www.thefrontbottoms.com/
Say Anything – https://sayanything.merchnow.com/products/music
Kevin Devine – http://www.kevindevine.net/home
