There has been a certain magic in the air as the weather is cooling down in LA and we approach Halloween. This magic was heightened by the stellar lineup at the Roxy this past weekend with Smush, Starling, Witches Exist, and the enchanting She’s Green headlining the show.
She’s Green from Minneapolis released their debut record Swallowtail this summer and are in the running as one of the best shoegaze bands of our generation. I make a point to see them in LA every chance I get, from their opening set at the Fonda in support of Slow Pulp last year to their sold-out headline show this spring at LAX.
The night started with Brooklyn’s Smush, who I had the pleasure of seeing at Sway at the Teragram in September. Unfortunately, I missed their set while figuring out a ticket issue with the box office. I was lucky enough to listen outside from the sidewalk while envious of everyone inside experiencing their set firsthand.
Starling put on an incredible show as always, playing songs from their most recent EP Plexus. Lead singer Kasha’s glittering dress was the perfect choice with the flashy yet moody lighting. There’s something so special about seeing a band that you’ve seen so many times at DIY spots and local bars at a proper venue with a real stage and professional lighting. Seeing Starling in this context proved that their performance is destined for bigger stages and audiences. As I’ve watched them grow in the LA scene, I’m so proud of how far they’ve come over the past few years.
Leading up to the main act, the curtain raised for Witches Exist, who were presented in a cloud of haze and washed out color as they played their almost twang-y take on shoegaze. The crowd was enamored by the guitarist on stage left who brought so much energy to their stage presence. I don’t think he was still for a minute of their set, and I couldn’t help but watch him the whole time.
She’s Green took the stage and immediately captivated the sold-out audience. There’s something so special about a band that can command the attention of a room, especially when it’s through the beauty of their music and not eye-catching gimmicks or by simply asking for it.
The people at the front of the stage were singing every word, and singer Zofia made sure to acknowledge them throughout the set by singing to them directly. Instrumentally, the band is flawless in its delivery of every song. For only two guitarists, She’s Green sounded huge and cultivated that classic wall-of-sound shoegaze feel.
I particularly loved the stage design: the drum kit, riser, and mic stands were covered in bright green moss, creating a very whimsical vibe that matched the vibe of the night perfectly. Their warm and encompassing sound really does feel like being wrapped up in a mossy blanket.
The show was truly the perfect way to spend a late-October Friday night, and I left feeling inspired and impressed. Listen for yourself below: