It's Never Too Late For The Happy Fits

August Hall stood as a perfect anachronism, bringing different time periods and age groups together. Clashing decorations unapologetically revealed a timeless feel to the audience. The bar and upstairs areas had a modern art deco feel, with warm lighting and angular furniture. Walls were draped with curtains and adorned with Victorian detail. While these styles were distinct from each other, they blended together to welcome the crowd. Throughout the night, I spotted people of many different age groups. Groups of high school students huddled together in anticipation of an exciting night out. Proud parents of performers peered over the balcony, taking in the scenery that would be lit up by their family members. Many people held a drink in their hand, chatting with their friends and enjoying an evening escape from work. Families with children of many ages awaited to create joyful memories together.

As the first opener, Phoneboy instantly brought a positive energy to the Hall. Bringing a distinctly Gen Z spirit, they rallied the crowd with callbacks and narration. Singer Wyn Barnum began with a shout out to his parents who waved from the balcony, telling them that he was only drinking water and cracking other jokes. The crowd could feel the excitement that was exuded from Phoneboy being on their first tour. After their second song, a member of the audience gave them In-N-Out hats to wear. The group eagerly put them on despite knowing that they would fall off with one head bop. With songs such as “Runaway” and “1987,” they vocalized the thrills and aches of youth. Halfway through the set, someone threw a phone at them and asked them to take a BeReal. As such a friendly and welcoming presence, they set a pleasant tone for the rest of the night. Finishing with the fan favorite “Sweater Song,” they made sure that everyone was swaying to the music. People got up on their friends’ shoulders as everyone united to match the band and celebrate a night of feel-good music.

Daisy the Great showed a stark contrast to Phoneboy by adding to the bundle of emotions delivered throughout the night. With songs about existential dread and crying in the mirror, they provided depth to the feelings that could motivate one to dance. Kelley Nicole Dugan’s presence was captivating, as her calm demeanor and swaying long hair were often paired with fun dance moves and eye contact. Mina Walker’s breezy vocals and swaying guitar perfectly complemented the moody lighting behind her. Order and chaos were in battle, as one song ended with Kelley crazily playing the drums and Mina lying on the floor. Pleasantly singing about sadness, they delivered an ethereal experience to the audience. A calm but fun energy appealed to all and ensured that their music could bring together people of different backgrounds.

The Happy Fits emerged in a grand and dramatic fashion. The stage lights went dark. A low humming filled the air. The first chord of the song was struck as the lights suddenly flashed on. From that moment forward, the energy never died. Calvin Langman’s legendary cello skills illuminated the Hall as he forcefully strummed through the songs. His infectious smile never faded, even as he was singing each song. Ross Monteith’s several different guitars offered a variety of sounds to pair with the cello. The beats of Luke Davis sent bolts through the crowd. The range of music styles was impressive and kept everyone entertained. A man in the audience was dressed as a pineapple, which was a symbol of the band. Langman told everyone to make sure that he didn’t dance alone, and he made sure that everyone was bopping or jumping by the end of the night. Next to me, a boy was on his father’s shoulders, swaying and singing along to nearly every song. With words of support for the LGBTQIA+ community, they made sure to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone amidst times where human rights and kindness are challenged. Genuine happiness emanated between the Fits and their fans.

The crowd demanded an encore at the end of the performance, to which they responded with “Too Late” and left them buzzing. The special night of different experiences was brought to a close with an eruption of applause and a smile on everyone’s faces.