SafetySuit awoke from a four year hibernation in November with the release of their self-titled, third studio album. It was the first part of the band’s gift to fans that stuck with them through the years. The second part? A headlining tour in which SafetySuit promised that their audience wouldn’t be disappointed. Along with Royal Teeth, SafetySuit fulfilled their guarantee and gave Charlotte an experience they never had.
Royal Teeth, the NOLA natives opened with their vibrant, color-infused indie pop that created a welcoming mood inside The Underground. Over the years Royal Teeth has been featured in numerous television shows, video games and commercials including America Idol, FIFA13 and the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S5. For that reason, the audience wasn’t unfamiliar with Royal Teeth whatsoever. The crowd donned the band’s t-shirts and gave the foursome their utmost respect and attention through the 9-song setlist that was ultimately capped off with “Wild” - Royal Teeth’s most known track.
With minimal downtime between bands, SafetySuit took the stage to an audience that was hyped, but unready for what they were about to experience. In SafetySuit’s ongoing 14 year career, this show marked the first time the band has ever headlined in Charlotte. There wasn’t any precedent for the Queen City natives to rely upon, therefore the performance was an eye-opening experience, in every way possible.
Photos by Jared Allen
SafetySuit frontman Doug Brown bounced around the stage tirelessly all while hitting every note of the opening songs: “You,” “This City” and “Let Go.” His band members followed suit. Guitarist Dave Garofalo seemingly mimicked the Tasmanian Devil with his energy all while bassist Jeremy Henshaw passionately offered backing vocals. SafetySuit is a well oiled machine that didn’t disappoint at any second throughout the night.
As the setlist rolled on, SafetySuit’s production only improved. When it comes to lighting and dramatics, SafetySuit took the cake for the best in The Underground’s short, six month history. The band presented a real show, filled with emotional turns and excitement. Fans combined for a powerful version of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” and moments later shifted down for “Never Stop,” a track that the majority of the audience used as their wedding song.
The amount of joy that SafetySuit elicited was immeasurable. It was a show the remember, not only because it was Charlotte’s first time, but because of the foursome’s effort. For any city that hasn’t experienced SafetySuit yet, it’s clearly never too late and undeniably a worthwhile time.
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