I removed my usual items at any venue's security check-in–camera, camera fanny pack, phone–when the guard asked if I could take off my carabiner and pant chain. As I unclipped them, "I'm guessing you've asked a lot of people this tonight?", and was met with a, "You know, not as much as you'd think." Nice, security got the joke. With half of The Beaches identifying as LGBTQ+, they’ve naturally built a queer fan base and this was on full display at their Los Angeles show.

From the moment I heard Jadu Heart's music it tore me up. Shoegaze, experimental, and hypnotic, they've created a soundscape that pulls you into a dissociative and heart clenched portal. Expect to cry; it’s painstakingly beautiful, wrapped in melancholy that feels like longing itself. You’ll listen again and again and again, cry some more, then rinse and repeat. 

cover, Superb. My brain, true to form, “I’ve got an idea that probably can’t be done before the show, or at all.” Lachlan sees where I’m going and smiles. “I think we’re trying to… preserve it,” he laughs, genuine glee, and the overall spirit Surprise Chef brought to the evening. Between them and their team, there was a unified sense of awe. Just kind humans, happy to be there.