On March 23, Confreres opened for Zion Goins at Yellow Racket Records in Chattanooga, Tn. Yellow Racket Records is a 70/30 split between a vinyl record store and a small venue that caters to bands looking for a vintage style aesthetic. The exposed wood rafters, hardwood floors, and subsections of the venue provide unique acoustics that add an organic echo to an already punchy sound system.
Confreres opened their set with “Punching Bag” from their album Wicked Ways. This song is a metaphoric representation of withstanding the trauma of someone else’s burdens. The performance was accompanied by two desk lamps illuminating the dim, intimate venue. The smaller venue allowed for tight low-end sound, an engaged crowd, and a sound that radiated among the entire building.
They continued their set with “Your Love,” “The Grind,” and “Surgery,” their most recent release that seemed to make a lasting impression. The lead writer for the band, Ryder Pierce, continues to display his metaphoric and unique rhyme structure in his songwriting. Drummer, Drew McDowell is known for his immersive style but showed great discipline to not overpower the venues acoustics; leaving the rest of the band to highlight their americana riffs and vocals. Dylan Owens on bass provided a solid foundation and rhythm that guided the band fluently. A three-piece band that sounded full and brought great energy was a pleasant experience.
Photos and words by David Relano.
