Deep in the heart of the Baltic Triangle lies Hangar 34; a multi-purpose event warehouse space which specialises in live music. On Sunday 8 March the venue hosted American pop rock band, X Ambassadors. Hailing from Ithaca, New York, the band gave Liverpool a night to remember and one that certainly won’t be forgotten any time soon.
X Ambassadors are a multi-platinum trio, best known for hit singles ‘Renegades’ and ‘Unsteady.’ Formed back in high school by brothers Sam Nelson Harris and Casey Harris, and later joined by drummer Adam Levin, the band have continually dominated the alternative charts since the release of their debut album ‘VHS’ back in 2015. The band have currently been touring the EU and UK as part of their ‘Townie Tour’ in support of their upcoming album ‘Townie,’ set to release on 5 April. The album is inspired by the bands experience growing up in a small town in upstate New York. Though lyrically it is specific about their hometown, the sentiment can be shared universally. Following a string of dates through the UK, the band have finally arrived in Liverpool for the final show of their tour.
First on tonight we have Oxford-formed band, Low Island. Mixing indie, electronica and intimate ballads, the band are an interesting choice as support. Taking to the stage in front of an eager crowd, the band kick things off with 2021 single ‘I Do It For You’. It’s a slower bass-led track song but it’s enough to grab the crowd’s attention. The pace picks up during their second song ‘Don’t Let The Light In,’ allowing their electronic sounds to flow into the room, giving the crowd a taste of their unique sound. As dreamy synths continue and the vocals of Carlos Posada ring out, the crowd dance and take in the music being played to them. There is confidence in their performance and, judging by the smiles on the band member’s faces, they’re clearly enjoying themselves. As the set draws to a close the crowd applaud and the excitement for tonight’s headline act continues to build.
As the lights go down, members of the crowd begin to scream and shout as X Ambassadors make their way to the stage. Last to the stage is Vocalist Sam Harris. The band waste no time in getting the crowd going with hit single ‘Renegades’, leading to big sing-alongs during the chorus. Harris is not one to disappoint as he dances across the stage during second song ‘BOOM’. His performance is truly electric and a marvel to behold. With dance moves akin to Elvis and a stage presence which captivates the audience, Harris is an outstanding entertainer and front man in his own right.
Mid-way through the set, Harris apologises on behalf of his brother Casey, who is missing for this evening’s performance due to a family emergency. Despite being a band member down, X Ambassador’s don’t hold back with their performance; with touring guitarist, Russ Flynn, bringing some big guitar solos throughout their set. It’s during these moments that the musical talent of the band truly shine, taking their music to another level and leaning closer to a rock and alternative sound.
The crowd lap this up, cheering and applauding at every opportunity. Harris keeps interaction with the crowd high, talking between songs and telling stories. “This is a song about being miserable. It’s called Happy People” Harris tells the crowd, leading to laughter and cheers as the band progress through their set. Based on the loud sing-along during the chorus, this collaborative project with Teddy Swims and Jac Ross, is a real crowd pleaser.
As the set enters its final phase, Harris takes a moment to talk about the upcoming new album ‘Townie;’ explaining that the name comes from what people would call them during their college days due to the fact they came from a small town. Before performing their latest single ‘Your Town,’ Harris talks about the inspiration behind the song and dedicates it to his long-time mentor and friend, Todd Peterson, who sadly passed away in 2021.
In the lead up to their final 3 songs, Harris introduces each member of the band before they slow things down to play hit single ‘Unsteady.’ This is truly a highlight of the night; a song fans have been eagerly waiting for, creating easily the biggest sing-along of the night. As the night draws to a close, things are kicked up a notch for one final burst of energy. The band leaves the stage to loud applause, screams and cheery demands for more songs. X Ambassadors have truly won the crowd over tonight with a fantastic live performance ranging from the highest of highs to quieter, more emotional moments. A lasting impression has been left, which will no doubt stick in the minds of all who have attended for weeks to come.
Will Robinson
