Review: Wallows at the Crystal Ballroom 4/3

Wallows have kicked off the US leg of their world tour celebrating the release of their latest album, Tell Me That It’s Over. After their two first shows in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C, the band spent two sold-out nights in Portland at McMenamins’ Crystal Ballroom. Roaring cheers welcomed band members Dylan Minette (known for his role as Clay Jenson in Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why), Braeden Lemasters, and Cole Preston to the stage Sunday night.

Wallows released their first single, “Pleaser,” in April 2017, which made it to number two on the Spotify Global Viral 50 chart. With the subsequent release of the following singles and EPs, Wallows gathered a dedicated following. In 2019, the band released “Are You Bored Yet?” featuring Clairo. The single reached number two on Billboard‘s Alternative Airplay chart and became their first RIAA platinum hit. Wallows released their debut album Nothing Happens in 2019, solidifying their spot in the indie-alternative scene.

Image by Peyton Myers

Walking into the Crystal Ballroom, the first thing I noticed were the lamps on stage. It was a unique touch to the other spectacular lights and smoke effects, complimenting the band’s powerful stage presence. Perhaps my favorite part of the show was the harmonica and trumpet that the crowd went wild for. The high energy of the crowd never stopped, but it was always fun to see the crowd go above and beyond for fan favorites like “1980s Horror Picture Film II” and “Do Not Wait.”

This is surely just the beginning for Wallows. They have left their mark on the Portland music scene, and we’ll be more than happy to welcome them back soon.

Find music and tour information at wallowsmusic.com.

Written by Peyton Myers (host of KPSU’s Last in Line).

https://youtu.be/iCtBjwAEDng
Latest music video from Wallows, “Marvelous.”