Chicago-based Twin Peaks take over San Francisco

Twin Peaks continue to demonstrate their musical capabilities, producing music ranging from garage rock to, as noted on their most recent album, a combination of country and soul influences. Their newest album, Lookout Low (2019), experiments with guitar heavy instrumentals, soulful trumpets and catchy melodies that evoke a sound reminiscent of 60s era rock and roll. The band performed Wednesday, November 13th at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, providing an enthusiastic performance to liven up the middle of the week. Twin Peaks have always been well known for their high energy and stage presence, and although their newer music isn’t as rough around the edges as some of their earlier work, the night still consisted of upbeat dancing, moshing, and an all around great time.

The night began with a performance by Chicago-based duo Ohmme. The two-piece rock band consists of Sima Cunningham and Macie Stewart, a duo that captivated the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the night with harmonious blending of experimental vocals. Cunningham and Stewart took control of the stage, heightening the energy of the venue and delivering some upbeat, guitar heavy songs such as their 2019 single, “Give Me Back My Man,” as well as dream-like ballads such as the song “Parts.”

The night continued as the second opener, indie-rock band Post Animal, displayed the perfect blend of psychedelic and garage-style rock, offering melodies that were guaranteed to get the audience moving. Whether it be banging heads to their fast-paced rock songs or rhythmically swaying to the psychedelic interludes, it was evident the crowd responded well to the Chicago-based band.

As the tone was set and the audience was raring to go, Twin Peaks took the stage, welcoming the concert-goers with open arms and high energy, starting off their set with songs such as “What Up Dog” and “Butterfly.” The night continued and the energy remained consistent even as the band performed some of their slower songs such as “Shake Your Lonely.”

Twin Peaks also delivered many songs off Lookout Low, including “Casey’s Groove,” which consisted of heavy guitar riffs and low-toned vocals as well as “Dance Through It,” a song with a deep bassline that left every attendee irresistibly nodding to the rhythm.

Throughout the show Twin Peaks managed to engage every audience member with their playfulness and charismatic nature. The band formed in high school and have been playing together ever since, establishing an intense bond and presenting an intimate and sincere dynamic between both performers and observers. The performance consistently delivered fun banter, high energy, and nonstop movement.

As the band continues to mature and experiment with different genres, it remains clear that they never lose their sense of camaraderie and innate capability to present engaging and enjoyable shows to their fans. With the recent implementation of country-blues rock styles into their predominantly garage rock discography, Twin Peaks prove their ability to explore new styles without losing touch with their original sound and undeniable likability.