Toro Y Moi

This is my second time photographing Toro Y Moi, and it was just as perfect as the first time I saw him. His new record has gone in a different direction than his last, trading most of his synth pop vibes for guitar based jams, and while this can sometimes turn out badly for other bands, Chaz Bundick has managed to show that he's a man of many talents and proportions. If you haven't listened his latest release, "What For?", drop everything you're doing and go give it a spin!

Cartel/TEAM

Welcome to my middle and high school life.

     The stages of being a big fan of Cartel didn't coincide with the age that my parents would let me go to concerts yet, so seeing them many years later is almost even better because it brought me right back to high school. To the wonderful days of singing along to my favorite albums, "Chroma" and "Cartel". Let me be the first to tell you that you have to see a band you've loved for years, even if you don't listen to them nearly as much as you used to. You will find yourself all of a sudden remembering all of the words like being a teenager was just yesterday. Thank you Cartel, for making my teenage dreams come true. (Funny enough the one of opening bands Driver Friendly sang a cover of "Teenage Dream" by Katy Perry). 

     Besides the greatness of Cartel, the last band to open for them was TEAM,  a band I had never heard of before, but have now been listening to their song "Come To My House" for the last 2 days. Literally. They're catchy, fun, and super talented. I'm definitely hoping they come to Lawrence or KC soon!

Father John Misty/King Tuff

Where do I even begin?

This is my second time seeing Father John Misty and I promise I will see him any chance I get for the rest of my life. In between his soulful, pure, condescending, singing voice, and his dance moves that entertain you but also make you jealous that you can't move that well, going to a live show of FJM is too much too put into mere words to justify how wonderful it is. The show was 4 days ago and I'm still reeling from it. Excitedly talking about it to anyone who will listen. And yes, that includes the 2 year old I nanny who has no idea what I'm even saying. 

I've never seen any musician connect with fans so well. He pointed out that most of the crowd was under 21, and even though he's in his early 30s, I can assure you that I've never seen strangers who are so far apart in age connect so well. 

Meeting him afterwards topped off an already amazing evening. His genuineness floored me, I expected him to be sarcastic yet nice. Surprisingly and thankfully he was kind, humble, and happy to meet and laugh with the few of us who stayed after. 

I can honestly say he's become one of my favorite musicians based off of his great music and amazing live shows. 

Lastly, let's talk about King Tuff. 

I had never heard of them before this show, and now I have been listening to them ever since I saw them. 2 out of 3 members showed up shirtless, with denim overalls and a denim jacket on. Apart from the light hearted ensemble, they astounded me once they started playing. All of them looked so happy to be there, it was a true moment of knowing that musicians can make a show so much more exciting and special if they show that they're excited to be there themselves.

Ok. 

I'm done raving about this show. Enjoy the pictures and make sure you listen to Father John Misty's new album "I Love You, Honeybear". It's one for the books.