Hailing from Brownsville, Texas, Twin Tribes have quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the darkwave scene. Known for their brooding, atmospheric soundscapes, the duo—comprising of Luis Navarro and Joel Niño Jr.—blend jangly guitars, spooky synths and drum machines to create music that is as hypnotising as it is danceable. Their catalogue explores themes of love, death, and the supernatural, drawing listeners into a shadowy world.
Wednesday night saw Twin Tribes emerge onto the intimate stage at Dareshack on what was their first show in Bristol, which was also impressively sold-out, confirming their international success. Appearing in a thick haze of smoke and darkness, their entrance set the tone for an evening steeped in mystery and allure. As the first notes rang out, the audience were immediately entranced, silhouetted by the smoke and contrastingly fluorescent light show that played perfectly into the band’s set.
The combination of jangly guitars and sparkly, haunting synths transported everyone to the dark, romantic world that Twin Tribes have meticulously crafted. The set was a blend of fan favourites and pepperings from their third studio album “Pendulum” which was released in January of this year, which felt like an extension of their established style, yet infused with a sense of growth and exploration that had fans and critics alike eager for more.
Despite the electric energy of their performance, the band maintained an aloof persona throughout the night, exchanging just a few humble “thank yous,” with the crowd, a gesture that seemed almost at odds with the intensity of the music. The lack of banter allowed the focus to remain squarely on the swirling, immersive soundscapes they were creating, each song flowing seamlessly into the next to keep the audience moving.
Dareshack itself provided the perfect backdrop for Twin Tribes’ performance. The intimate space allowed the music to fully envelop the audience, with the lighting and smoke working in tandem to create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The band seemed to float on stage, their silhouettes occasionally breaking through the fog, adding a visual element that complemented the music’s ethereal quality. The contrast between the dark stage and the sudden bursts of fluorescent light heightened the drama, making the performance not just a concert, but a fully immersive experience that everyone in attendance is not likely to forget in a hurry.
Role: Reviewer
Outside of my day job, I’m a regular gig-goer and have always enjoyed writing articles to fuel the passion even further, whether that be through reviews for live shows or for full albums.
Available for: Gig reviews, album/single reviews and artist interviews.
First attended gig: The first show I bought a ticket to myself was 30 Seconds To Mars supported by Enter Shikari at the Brighton Centre.
First gig reviewed: The first gig I reviewed was a showcase of underground DIY rock acts dubbed ‘Deprestlemania’ at The Victoria in Dalston.
Dream gig: There are too many to choose from. It would have to be either Def Leppard, Pearl Jam playing every song from Ten, or Deftones (preferably playing their entire discography). Or even better, all three!
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK