Furthering joy with The Regrettes in Grand Rapids

No one was dancing on their own this past Sunday night when LA band, The Regrettes rolled into a sold out show in Grand Rapids, MI. Kicking off their first headlining show of the tour after spending the summer supporting YUNGBLUD, they brought along Ohio natives Snarls to get the crowd going.

The magnetic personalities and vibrant tunes of Snarls truly set up the energy of the night. It being not only my first time but many of the crowd as well as seeing and hearing of Snarls, they were sure to interact with the crowd and make everyone feel at home in the intimate venue. Playing their hits Walk In The Woods and Marbles off their 2020 album Burst, a fabulous introduction to our first meeting. Everyone soaked up their indie rock sound, jumping and dancing, preparing for what's to come that night. Along with the inviting

environment they created during their set, Snarls encouraged listeners to come say hello at the merchandise booth as they watched the rest of the show and would be thereafter.

Soon, the enchanting aura revved up with a chorus-like anthem as these California Friends took the stage. Not a single foot stayed on the ground– everyone was bouncing and hollering along to the beats. The smiles of the band and the crowd alike were felt throughout the room, undeniable how much fun we were all enduring.

The Regrettes were captivating and engaging, befriending each eye they contacted with. It was easy to forget this was a show many paid for rather than just a hang out with old friends. No one was a stranger to sweat nor were they worried as soon as a cover of Robyn’s Dancing On My Own filled the speakers and our souls. Cheeks hurt and voices lost, an inevitable consequence of the movement of our bodies and joining in song.

“This could possibly be the best night of our lives,” exclaimed lead singer, Lydia Night, who gained attention from Barbie actor Ryan Gosling and his band, Dead Man’s Bones in 2013 after being the youngest performer to play South by Southwest. Her charm and vivacity, along with indisputable talent make it easy to understand Gosling’s fascination with the 22-year-old musician.

Insisting on the crowd get down low so we could all spring into action, Grand Rapids had no problem setting aside all worries and letting loose while the foursome on stage declared to Show Me How You Want Me. Before we said our goodbyes, one more surprise was in store during the 2018 hit Poor Boy, asking for all those who identified as a man to make their

way to the back of the venue and everyone else to come up front. Everyone shifted scurried to meet their request and the heavy chant of “THESE GIRLS ARE COMING FOR YOU,” erupted throughout the herd.

California band The Regrettes gave an unforgettable performance to a crowd of all ages and genders. The melodies were dynamic, the music was lively and everyone there created a core memory. They were by far one of the best bands I have seen in a long time and a group to keep your eye on because no doubt from here they will continue to grow. Their 2022 album, Further Joy is available to listen to now and be sure to catch them on the rest of their current tour.

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