A&E

Five thoughts: Waxahatchee (April 19, Eagle Aerie Hall)

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Waxahatchee at Eagle Aerie Hall on April 19.
Photo: Leslie Ventura

1. Halfway through my drive to Old Henderson I’m asking myself why one of this year’s Coachella acts would be playing a show miles away from our music scene’s hub, at a Fraternal Order of Eagles lodge. The squat Denny’s-shaped building in question is an all-ages venue at night (with a full bar), poor fluorescent lighting, bare walls and linoleum flooring—an odd choice for a band that just came from playing one of the world’s most popular festivals.

2. Upon arriving, I learn that Waxahatchee actually asked to play an all-ages show and didn’t want to play a bar. My respect for Waxahatchee has increased tenfold. I guess that’s what happens when you cut your teeth in the Alabama punk scene.

3. Singer Katie Crutchfield could be Speedy Ortiz frontwoman Sadie Dupuis’ younger cousin. Waxahatchee is louder and grungier live, and the distorted guitars are made even noisier by a crunchy sound system. And though vocals are nearly impossible to understand, Crutchfield’s attitude, hovering between pissed off, heartbroken and confident, makes Waxahatchee’s hook-driven emo-pop more endearing.

4. After scanning the crowd, I notice a handful of people singing along to every lyric. As the band plays through “Swan Dive,” “Grass Stain” and “Peace and Quiet,” one guy in particular seems to know every word. I’ve totally been there, but on this night I felt like I was witnessing a special moment between band and fan.

5. Just as the show is getting started, it’s over, without an encore. After confirming with Crutchfield that Waxahatchee did, in fact, ask to play out at the lodge, I thank her for making the odd request. Would they have had better turnout if they played a Downtown show? Sure, but it wouldn’t have felt as unique.

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Leslie Ventura

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