Photos and Review by Ian Wall
After the long-anticipated release of American Football’s “LP4”, they announced a tour with various artists, including indie rock band Ian Sweet from Los Angeles, California. Arriving at Asheville, NC’s local venue The Orange Peel, a line of eager fans, new and old, were waiting in line to experience this once-in-a-lifetime show.
Ian Sweet took the stage and immediately grabbed the audience’s attention with her energetic yet emotional sound that contrasted the main act perfectly. Playing hits such as “Criminal Kissing” and “Your Spit,” her lyrics and stage presence resonated deeply with the crowd. Not long after, she wrapped up her set and announced she’d be at merch to meet fans and chat!
The entire venue’s atmosphere changed when American Football took the stage. The crowd erupted as each member took to their instruments and began that night’s set. Starting the night with new songs from “LP4,” including “Man Overboard” and “Blood On My Blood,” was a strong start to an already highly anticipated night. Formed in Urbana, Illinois, and active from 1997 to 2000, then reforming in 2014, they left a staple in the genre with their unique sound and melancholic lyrics, unlike most at the time. Current members include Mike Kinsella (vocals, guitar), Steve Holmes (guitar), Nate Kinsella (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Steve Lamos (drums, percussion, trumpet).
Halfway through the set Mike Kinsella announced they’d start playing some of American Football’s older work and immediately jumped into “Home Is Where The Haunt Is.” Mike’s vocal talent has always been consistent, and it’s exciting hearing it in a live setting. As the crowd listened and took in the emotion-evoking art, they hit us with the first song of the set from the iconic “LP1,” “Honestly.” Proceeding to perform off the same album, you could really feel them getting into the rhythm of their roots.
The moment “Never Meant” started with that warm, familiar intro, I swear I’ve never heard an audience cheer louder. The entire venue was caught up in every experience they’ve had with American Football’s music contained in one song. Proceeding to wrap up, everyone called for an encore, and the band delivered. After giving everyone a taste of nostalgia with the older work, they played 5 more songs off of “LP4” to wrap up the night. If you’re able to make it out to this tour or the dates in the fall, I absolutely recommend you do. A mixture of the amazing performances as well as appreciating all eras of their work for the fans, you won’t regret popping out to one of the dates.
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