Nashville Lights Up with Mother Mother and Winnetka Bowling League
In the heart of Nashville, a city known for its vibrant music scene, I found myself at Brooklyn Bowl for a much-anticipated night filled with tunes, laughter, and great vibes. The occasion? A live concert featuring none other than Mother Mother with their special guests, Winnetka Bowling League. My excitement was palpable, particularly because the line-up included two bands I admired, each offering a unique sound that I couldn’t wait to experience live.
The Kickoff with Winnetka Bowling League
As the evening began, I eagerly awaited the opener, Winnetka Bowling League. The stage setup was quirky and engaging, featuring box TVs playing static and a gumball machine that gave off playful retro vibes. It felt like stepping back in time, perfectly aligning with the band’s aesthetic. Once on stage, the trio wasted no time getting the crowd moving with their energetic performance.
Lead singer and guitarist Matthew Koma, alongside drummer Kris Mazzarisi and keyboardist Sam Beresford, shared that this was their first time performing in a bowling alley, which felt incredibly fitting given their name. This tour was particularly special as they had just released their debut album, “Sha La La”, earlier that year. One song that stood out for me was “On the 5”, which Koma explained was their first release as a band, reflecting their Californian roots.
As the band began playing covers, the crowd’s enthusiasm soared, especially during their rendition of Chappell Roan’s “Casual.” It was a joy to sing along, and Koma lightened the mood with his witty banter about some of the visuals on stage, even joking about a TV showing “Morbius” in case the audience lost interest!
Mother Mother Takes the Stage
After Winnetka Bowling League wrapped up their outstanding set, the moment came for Mother Mother to take the stage. My anticipation was at an all-time high. From the very first note, they captivated the audience with their remarkable ability to blend intricate harmonies with striking instrumentals. I was especially struck by the fervor and dedication of their fans, a palpable energy that filled the room.
The musicianship displayed by Mike Young on bass and Ali Siadat on drums created a robust backdrop for the captivating vocals by Ryan Guldemond, Molly Guldemond, and Jasmin Parkin. What impressed me the most was the seamless interaction between the band and the audience. They donned bracelets gifted by fans, took selfies with them, and celebrated personal milestones such as birthdays. It felt like a big, happy family gathering.
One particularly touching moment occurred when Ryan expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his sister, Molly, for her unwavering support through their journey. It was clear that this bond extended beyond the stage, creating an even more intimate atmosphere.
A Night of Hits and Heartfelt Moments
During their performance, they took us on a nostalgic journey, revisiting some of their biggest hits, including a crowd-pleasing cover of Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games.” With every song, Ryan shared bits about their musical evolution, emphasizing that this journey—spanning nearly two decades—had its ups and downs, but moments like these made it all worthwhile.
As the night progressed, the excitement peaked when they played their anthemic hit, “Hayloft”. The energy in the room was electric, and we all erupted into a chorus that felt both exhilarating and cathartic. The final bow was a powerful crescendo that left everyone in awe.
As they exited the stage, it was hard to believe the night had come to an end. The crowd, however, was not ready to let them go just yet, chanting for an encore. When they returned, Ryan spoke a few touching words, reminding us all to “please keep being alive for as long as you can,” a poignant reminder of the evening’s themes of connection and resilience.
Looking Ahead
As I left the venue, excitement coursed through me. This concert was not just a display of musical talent; it was a celebration of community, artistry, and unforgettable memories. I couldn’t help but run back to my Spotify, saving every song that moved me that night. Mother Mother and Winnetka Bowling League brought Nashville to life in a way I will cherish forever, and I can hardly wait for their return!
