Nov 2nd 2023 Live at The House of Blues
Picture a dimly lit venue, pulsating with anticipation, as the ethereal tunes of this independant sensation wash over the crowd like a hot shower head with the perfect water pressure. From the moment the band took the stage, there was an undeniable aura of confidence and talent that enveloped the venue. Emma Proulx, lead singer and guitarist, effortlessly charmed the audience with her delicate yet powerful vocals as the crowd settled into their orbiting sound.
Now, I’ve seen indie bands take the stage with reverb heavy chords and airy vocals that are virtually impossible to understand. And while Men I Trust is in no way a loud fast rock band, their sound seamlessly filled every square inch of that room with articulate accents and perfect balance. I was blown away. Emma’s ability to reproduce the vibes she portrays on the record is really something special.
With that being said, I, probably more than the next critic, love a tight well rehearsed band. But sometimes I enjoy seeing the band fall into a live performance with growth and improvisation. I understand the importance of a bands honor to their fans. And I know how hard it is to produce a live show consistently in each and every city during a tour. That being said, as a drummer, I would have loved to see Eric Maillet (drummer) step out of the studio and onto the stage a little more. The lead guitarist and his solos were spectacular and would have loved to see every band member build with him a little more. You know what I mean? Not like a 20 minute “Phish” like jam session, but just a little more live flare to deliver us a special treat for going and seeing them live.
That being said, the setlist was a carefully curated mix of Men I Trust’s most beloved tracks, showcasing their versatility and musical evolution. From the mellow grooves of “Lauren” to the energy of “Tailwhip,” each song was met with enthusiastic cheers and swaying bodies. The Band did more than just deliver. We all left smiling and refreshed as the lights came on and the crowd almost let out a sigh of relief. Well done band, thank you for an incredible night!