CHICAGO- On Wednesday, August 19, midwest alternative band Citizen took the stage for their second night of a two-show run at Thalia Hall. The show had a stacked lineup that showcased a range of up and comers in the modern rock scene, with noise-rock from LA-based Rocket and NYC-based Hotline TNT, as well as upbeat emo from the Boston-based group Anxious. With the previous night in Chicago kicking off the Halcyon Blues world tour and a brand new record of the same name released on August 7, the crowd was eager to hear both the band’s new music as well as beloved fan favorite tracks.
The band, consisting of members Mat Kerekes (vocals), Nick Hamm (guitar), Eric Hamm (bass), Mason Mercer (guitar), and Ben Russin (drums), took the stage and quickly launched into the opening track of Halcyon Blues, “Good Fortune.” Within the first track, Citizen immediately captivated the audience by establishing a strong level of energy that carried into the rest of the set.
Throughout the night, Citizen focused on Halcyon Blues by incorporating tracks from the album into the setlist, with standouts including title track, “I Can See You From Here,” and “Is It in My Brain?” With these new songs, Citizen seamlessly brought their dreamy yet blistering post-hardcore record onto the big stage.
In addition to the newer tracks, Citizen blended long-time favorites into the set with tracks including “How Does It Feel?,” and “The Summer.” As they closed the show with the fan-beloved track “The Night I Drove Alone,” the crowd’s movement closely mirrored the slow burn that unfolded as the emotional ballad erupted into a heartfelt wave of noise that consumed the entire venue.
As the band closed out their two-night run at Thalia Hall, the crowd felt as if they had reached a state of group catharsis while experiencing Citizen’s emotional lyrics and a distinct sound that blends emo and post-hardcore. With an electrifying performance that highlighted their musical prowess and stage presence, Citizen’s Halcyon Blues tour is proving why they are a staple in the modern alternative scene.