So, first time at Fineline. Neat venue. This concert wasn’t my idea to go to, but a friend on mine’s and I’m glad I went. I honestly didn’t look at who the opening bands were, I actually found out in the line to get in the door. Needless to say, I was happy. Halocene and Icon For Hire are fun bands. Citizen Soldier sold out their tour, and given this is their first headline tour, that’s pretty cool. I don’t know all of the band members names and I think some are touring musicians, so apoligizes if I don’t mention someone. So, I think I should get this review started!
Halocene
They intended to start with a bang, but technical difficulties had their way. Halocene lost time on their setlist fixing their equipment. I’m estimating they lost at least two songs. But once they got everything working and reset, it kicked off.
They played a mix of original and cover songs. The real highlight for this band was the drums. The drummer killed it! Guitars were solid and vocals were strong.
They looked like they were having a good time up on stage. Addie Nicole brought a fun vibrate energy to the venue. You can really tell the band enjoys being there and has a love for what they do.
Icon For Hire
Icon For HIre had a lot of energy. They played many of their own songs, but also through in a couple covers too. Which I was surprised at, but they had such a natural flow it didn’t matter one bit. The only actual negative thing I encountered for the venue itself was first noticed durring Icon For Hire’s set. The lights are way to bright. One of them was shining in my eyes without moving for at least half a song.
Ariel Bloomer was great on vocals, and Shawn Jump on guitar did a great job as well. The other touring musicians were solid. Ariel does not slow down with the energy she brings. Even at one point getting up and standing on the drum set to perform.
They were able to get more time than Halocene, and they had a more full performance as a result. It was interesting to see their dedication to their craft. Even proclaiming that they planned to do this into their 80s. I wish them luck and hope they do.
Citizen Soldier
Now onto the headliner, Citizen Soldier. I’m not too familiar with this band to be honest. My friend is the real fan. I’ve listened to a couple of their songs riding with him. They’re not my usual cup of tea, but they gave a great live show.
Jake Segura has a real passion for what he does, and you can see it come through in his lyrics. He has a very clean and tempered voice. Matt Duffney and Kooper Hanosky were solid on guitars. Wonitta was stron on bass and keys. Kyle Persell was rocking out on drums.
When I was talking about the lights in Icon For Hire’s section, this continued to be a problem for the rest of the concert. Even Jake Segura made a comment about them. The venue was pretty cool, but this was an issue and I’m not sure who was at fault in full.
Addie Nicole rejoined the stage to sing with Jake Segura for one song they recorded together called, Wish I Could Cry. They had good chemistry on stage and the song was enjoyable. There was a good pacing to Citizen Soldier’s performance.
The band has a little work to do with crowd interaction during songs. If you’re going to split the crowd, and go back and forth with them saying something, then it’s best to do it more than just a little at the beginning of one song.
The best part of Citizen Soldier is their positive message. They are very open about mental health and providing a space open for it. Their lyrical content was heavily geared towards the topic and they do a good job at handling it.
I think they are better as a live band vs studio recording to be honest. I wasn’t 100% sure what to make of what I was walking into, but I left happy. I think it was a solid concert overall, and it was just a fun night.
Concert Review: Citizen Soldier with Halocene & Icon For Hire at Fine Line is marked with CC0 1.0
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