The Thermals songs are the perfect combination of punk and pop. This translated incredibly well when the played Monday night at Rhino's. Every bass line, guitar hook, and drum beat went together perfectly. Each member seemed ecstatic to be playing, especially drummer Westin Glass. Almost always with a smile on his face and frequently raising his drumsticks in the air, he made it clear that the band absolutely loves being on tour.
They started the night off with "So Here's Your Future" and quickly transitioned into the song "I Might Need You to Kill". Every song was fast and fairly short, which is probably they were able to play a 19 song set. When I saw them at the Pitchfork Music Festival two years ago, they played Nirvana's "Sappy" and a Greenday cover of which I can't remember the name. I was secretly hoping they would follow suit and play another zany cover, but they stuck to their own material.
During "Not Like Any Other Feeling" Kathy busted out a bass solo, while the audience clapped and cheered along. Move the hell over Kim Deal. Kathy's ability to play the bass was amazing. When they played "Power Lies", a song I had never heard before, I realized it sounded strangely familiar. Then it clicked: No Doubt's "Don't Let Me Down". The semblance is uncanny, but I still think "Power Lies" is better.
The band gave off a vibe of unity and excitement throughout the entire show, which seemed to rub off on the audience. They raised their fists in the air, started a mosh pit, and danced. It would have been impossible to stand still during such an energetic show. The Thermals know what kind of band they are and they execute it well. If you missed the show, make sure you stop by next time they're around. This was definitely one of the more enjoyable shows of the year.
Set List
1. So Here's Your Future
2. I Might Need You to Kill
3. There's Nothing You Can't Learn
4. I Don't Believe You
5. We Were Sick
6. It's Trivia
7. When We Were Alive
8. Never Listen to Me
9. Not Like Any Other Feeling
10. Power Lies
11. Returning to the Fold
12. St. Rosa and the Swallows
13. Only For You
14. How We Know
15. Back to Gray
16. When I Was Afraid
17. No Culture Icons
18. Now We Can See
19. A Pillar of Salt
Words by Katie McKenna
Pictures by Taylor Swaim
