Illuminati Hotties came ready to rock this past week at Philamoca promoting their debut album. Kiss Yr Frenemies is a collection of perennial indie-pop songs. With the band in a gym-esque red and white uniform ensemble and a slice of pizza on the screen reading “join us,” I knew this was going to be a fun show. Special shoutout to the bassist whose name I think was Chase. Every picture I took of him he looked like he was having a kick-ass time!
Kicking the night off with “(You’re Better) Than Ever” I watched the entire crowd take one step closer to the stage and commence dancing. A song about the struggle of keeping it together while an ex is doing better than ever, seemed beyond relatable to the crowd. I couldn’t help smirking knowing exactly how that feels and absolutely love when songs hit home like that. Check out the official music video here!
Describing the group’s sound as “tenderpunk,” Tudzin’s songwriting is like a short story narrative. Lyrics providing you with scenes of romance, warmth, heartbreak, loneliness and frustration. If that isn’t tender and punk-driven all in one I’m not sure what else is. This is especially true with songs like “Pressed 2 Death,” where Tudzin’s stage presence is both charming and sarcastic making her remarkably enjoyable to watch live.
My favorite song off of the album and performed that night was “The Rules.” A more sentimental sounding song, front woman Sarah Tudzin brings her playful and sweet vocals to the acoustics creating an air of tranquility. There is also a part of the song where she whistles the chorus and I so desperately just wish I could whistle.
The entire set was steller. I forgot about the dreadful humidity we’ve been suffering through. I felt like I was in my early 20s again, navigating the slow beginnings of adulthood. I still can’t whistle but I am seriously hooked on this band. And you should be too! Take a listen.
Catch Illuminati Hotties on tour! Plenty of dates left folks. Get your tickets here!
11/15 Orlando, FL @ Soundbar
11/16 Atlanta, GA @ The Drunken Unicorn
11/17 Nashville, TN @ High Watt
11/18 Durham, NC @ Motorco Music Hall
xx Meg
