Gig: Bears in Trees @ The Fleece, Bristol
Bears in Trees
It’s exceedingly rare that I will trek out to a sold out show. Partially, because I’m 5’2 and have little-to-no hope in a sea of “normal” height people. Partially, because I have great respect for fire codes and safety.
But then when you’re given the opportunity to talk to a band as sincere as Bears in Trees, listen to their new album on repeat for weeks to help write an extremely lengthy review (because it’s just that good), and then have the chance to go see them play the new tunes we’re loving so much? Because when you write bold statements like “melancholy never sounded so fun”, you have to go find out if its true. And by golly, it sure is.
The Happy Fits
While we regretfully missed the opening act, Lexie Carroll, whose new EP 'You Look Lovely When You're Living' was announced just days ago, her reputation precedes her. Based in London, Carroll's musical style seamlessly blends folk, indie, and pop, creating a deeply poignant magic that belies her years. Her presence would have undoubtedly set the perfect tone for an evening celebrating honesty and joy.
The Happy Fits
We did however arrive just in time for The Happy Fits' set, greeted by the sight of glowing pineapples flanking the band on two enormous TV screens. Hailing from Pittstown, New Jersey, this indie rock band recently welcomed Nicole Rosenbach and Raina Mullen on guitar and vocals earlier this year, adding new dimensions to their sound. Despite the challenge of integrating stringed instruments into a rock setting, they excel, with lead vocalist and cellist Calvin Langman skillfully wielding their cello. “Skillfully wielding” might be the understatement of the year, as it appears far more like an extra limb for Langman than a separate musical instrument. Their setlist featured classic rock influence, bouncing between extremes from a Joan Jett-esque classic rock sound to energetic bursts reminiscent of pop-punk.
Bears in Trees
Between sets, an impromptu crowd sing-along erupted, with the crowd jamming out to hits like 'Call Me Maybe' by Carly Rae Jepsen and 'Teenagers' by My Chemical Romance. The atmosphere exuded wholesome school disco vibes and nostalgic memories in the best possible way.
Bears in Trees burst onto the stage, igniting the venue with their signature fervor. Their set comprised a dynamic blend of old classics and tracks fresh from their new album, How to Build an Ocean: Instructions, released mere days ago. As the densely packed crowd of all ages swayed and sang along, it was evident that Bears in Trees strikes more than just a chord with their audience.
The band kicked off with the electrifying “Things That Look Like Mistakes” from their latest release, setting the tone for an unforgettable performance. From the outset, they radiated a palpable energy and sincerity. It’s this sincerity that has forged a deep connection between the band and their “sandbox” fans, that only intensified as the night progressed.
One standout moment came during guitarist Nick Peters’ impassioned introduction to “I Can't See Anything I Don't Like About You”, which will resonate profoundly with any listeners who has ever felt like they are a complex being with more than one singular personality trait.
Personally, I was thrilled to hear the Bears in Trees play “I Don't Wanna Be Angry”, a track thats become a favourite with its blend of optimism and the haunting beauty of its River Styx imagery in the chorus.
The evening reached a crescendo with a double encore, although their final song was momentarily halted as the band intervened to assist a distressed fan. Their compassionate gesture only served to reinforce the bond between performers and audience, culminating in a heartfelt conclusion to an exceptional night of music.
Catch Bears in Trees on tour this May in the UK and EU.
