On September 18th, Joan and Lostboycrow opened up for Flor at Exit/In. Originally from Hood River, OR, lead vocalist Zach Grace, guitarist McKinley Kitts, bassist Dylan Bauld and drummer Kyle Hill, are now based in Los Angeles, CA. Flor opened their set with ‘slow motion, and ‘heart’ to foreshadow a night full of dancing. When they began playing ‘unsaid,’ it was apparent the crowd was truly enjoying themselves.
The band performed their song titled ‘ley lines’ which is the title track of the new album they released on September 6th. They introduced the next song by referring to it as “kind of a deep cut,” explaining how this is their favorite song to play live not only because of the crowd’s reaction, but especially because of the reaction of their die hard, loyal fanbase- the ones who always make it to the front row. They then begin playing ’restless soul,’ and the crowd did not disappoint: clapping and dancing along, while passionately belting the lyrics:
“Oh don’t you tire your restless soul
You’re running, you’re running, oh
In place, you’re going nowhere fast, you know
Come and lay down your restless soul
You’re wearing, you’re wearing out
No currents coming from your restless soul”.
Zach, ends the song with a beautiful raspy “yeah” to really give the song that final oomph.
Flor also preformed some old fan favorites from 2018 album: come out. you’re hiding. ‘overbehind,’ ugh how do I even? A song that is too catchy for my own good. The crowd really enjoyed the guitar solo in ‘back again’ This song has way more of a true ‘rock’ and full band sound compared to the recording, which has more of an electronic feel.
‘where do you go’ and ‘rely’ had the crowd singing loud and dancing around. Everyone was really letting loose, exerting lots of energy, and being extremely participative in the vibe the band was putting out. When the band performed ‘hold on’ the crowd was dancing along but hearing them belt “It’s on us now to keep our route come hell, high water,” even had the band a little shook. They ended the night with ‘warm blood’. This song was a pinnacle moment because it was the first time ever playing a live show that Zach took off his guitar, “freeing” him to move around, matching the crowd’s energy. Best way to explain the band is: a perfect sunny summer day, driving with the windows down, and perfectly fitting feel-good music at 150 decibels.
To check out a show near you: https://www.facebook.com/florsounds/app/123966167614127/
To prepare for the show: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0szWPxzzE8DVEfXFRCLBUb?si=9EeDYt3kT1KL2d-VC-j-7A
*Flor does not use capital letters when titling their songs or albums. I wanted to respect the artists’ stylistic choice.
Photos by the very talented: Tony Cottone