On September 6, 2024, I had the good fortune of seeing some of my favorite local Denver bands throw down at Goosetown Tavern. While I already knew what I was getting myself into, I was not ready for the constant sonic hammering I received from Audrey Riggs, Nicki Walters, Summer Bedhead, and Genevieve Libien. While each band brought their own unique characteristics, they melded together over the night to create an awesome experience of live indie music right in the heart of Denver–all in an effort to send off Genevieve and her killer band on a tour across the midwest.
To start off the night, Audrey Riggs and her band played some powerful originals as well as a unique collage of covers. From the start of their set, it was clear that they were eager and ready to rock on stage. Most notably, the bass player standing tall and up front, sending the high energy and good vibes to the audience. While it was one of their guitar player’s last times playing with the band, they did not waste any time playing their asses off for their solos. From one guitar player to another, killer job! For me, the biggest highlight of their set was their cover of “My Own Summer” by Deftones. Every member of the band was really digging in, and the powerful scream vocals got everyone hyped and ready for the rest of the night.
Continuing the night of heavy-hitting music, Nicki Walter and Nick Schell got up on stage and absolutely crushed it. Both Nicki and Nick are exceptional musicians on their instruments. It really comes across when they display their abilities to serve the music, while using their full capabilities on their instruments to deliver a unique and memorable experience. From soulful songs to ripping math rock-inspired riffs, I was a huge fan of everything I witnessed. Especially when Nicki’s string broke and they just continued to play, giving the audience one last tune before getting the headliner up on stage. I will forever and always be a Nicki Walters fan.
While they might have taken down the “heavy” factor a few notches, Genevieve and her band had an awesome set, captivating and compelling the audience to really listen. For most of their set, the audience was dead quiet. When Genevieve took the time to play her solo EP for us, the only other thing you could hear was the noise from the bar across the wall. From behind the stage, it seemed like such a picture perfect moment, with all the Geneviveve shirt-wearing people in the front row looking up while the band rocked out. My personal favorite moment was their original song “Atom Bomb.” Described by Geneviveve as, “a song with no chorus,” I loved it. Hope the tour is going well guys!
To end the night, Summer Bedhead brought the heat as usual. The first time I ever got to see them live was on a bill that we played together at Goosetown Tavern around 2021. Since that show, the band has always floored me with their musicianship and songwriting. To see every awesome thing that they have done leading up to this show just made it that much more special to see them at the venue we started at together years ago–still killing it with every song. I'm very excited for the album that they are currently working on, and wish Tyler the best in all his musical endeavors as he focuses on other endeavors. This was my fourth or fifth time seeing Summer Bedhead live, and I highly recommend everyone to go see them in person as soon as they are back at it.
Overall, I would say this was one of the most inspiring and moving shows I have been to in a while. The talent, emotions, and energy were great with every band. It was awesome getting to experience it first-hand. If you ever have the chance, make sure to go see Audrey Riggs, Nicki Walters, Summer Bedhead, and Genevieve Libien live on stage. You won't regret it!
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