Known for their dreamy rock 'n' roll sound and high-energy sets, The Velveteers kept the audience entranced during their performance at a notable New York City rock venue on October 13. The Velveteers are currently touring in the US, debuting their new single, "Go Fly Away," which will be released as a part of the album A Million Knives on February 14th. Listeners can expect soft/lulling vocals, synth infused guitar, and a driving drum beat.
As you enter The Mercury Lounge, you are greeted by a narrow hallway flanked by merch stands and a dimly lit bar littered with colorful glass bottles. Once you journey down the hallway, the room opens up to a stage where fans gather close to get the best view of their favorite artists. Although on the smaller side, this venue is well known for supporting upcoming musicians and artists helping drive the indie rock revival that occurred in NYC between the 90s and early 2000s. The audience tends to be a pairing of regulars hoping to catch a quick show or long-time listeners of the performing acts.
The night started out on a high note as Alex Vile, the Seattle-based alternative band, opened up for the main set. Originally a solo project, the singer/guitarist, Alexandra Vilenius, put together a 4-person group with Leo Quale (guitar), Kaelyn Stevens (bass), and Evan Hartung (drums). The crowd swayed back and forth as Alex Vile established the energy that would be carried throughout the rest of the evening. Their impactful lyrics in "Never Awake" and "Kobayashi" paired perfectly with intricate guitar riffs and a pounding bass line. The band focuses on heartbreak, mental health struggles, and the notion of what constitutes feeling like an "adult." Optimism is brought through to these lyrics as well. Combined with their captivating stage presence, Alex Vile had listeners huddled up around the stage edge.
Alex Vile
Dressed all in denim, The Velveteers stormed onto the stage around 9:15 pm, earning whoops and hollers from the crowd. When the lead singer, Demi Demitro, picked up their microphone, a hush fell over the audience, patiently waiting for the start of a high-energy performance. The Velveteers started off strong with "Motel #27," which consisted of rich vocals paired with a pounding drum beat. Now, this wasn't your typical setup, as the band switched back and forth between electric keyboards, numerous guitars, and a pair of drummers (Baby Pottersmith and Jonny Fig). As the drummers slammed down onto their sets in unison, the audience seemed to mimic their rhythmic movements. Classics such as "Father of Lies" and "Charmer and the Snake" worked the pit into a frenzy as they started to mosh. Demi's long hair flew back and forth as the drummers poured water onto the top of their snares. Water sprayed off the stage every time their sticks crashed down.
Baby Pottersmith playing the drums and spraying water out into the audience
The Velveteers leaned into the spooky and witchy atmosphere with "Dark Horse," a perfect song for an October show in NYC. Filled with lush storytelling, The Velveteers have the ability to transport everyone to a whimsical world, reminiscent of the 80s dark fantasy aesthetic. The performance truly left the crowd in awe as they chanted for new songs and an encore. Leaving the venue, I could hear fans and band members chatting about future tour dates, their favorite songs, and the best parts of the night.
The Velveteers' Kiss the Future tour continues onward with stops in DC, Georgia, North Carolina, and more.
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The Velveteers at Mercury Lounge, NYC