SWX, Bristol – 14th November 2022
Introduced to the screaming crowd by a set of flashing lights and a humongous inflatable ladybug, Nashville based band Coin bounced onto the stage to be welcomed with a tremendous Bristol roar. Fresh off the release from their fourth album: Uncanny Valley, Coin was well oiled and raring to go, kicking off the night with “Watering a dead flower” and “Chapstick” which were instant crowd pleasers;Chase Lawrence (front man) singing with a definite level of swagger as he strutted around the stage reaching out to the committed fans who had queued in the pouring rain for hours to have a chance of getting close to the stage. Having sold out the iconic Thekla venue within hours, Coin no doubt could have sold out the Academy with the level of dynamism that they’re set brought to the SWX stage. As the night commenced further the Tennessee Natives treated their die hard fans to some of their older tunes, playing iconic songs such as ‘Hannah’ and boyfriend, to the delight of their super fans.
Not only were the crowd given amazing stage presence throughout the entire set, but were also thrilled by the incredible digital backdrops which morphed between lyrics and stunning visuals, which was truly a transportive experience that took me to “ Uncanny Valley”
Despite having released very recently, the band made sure to stay close to their roots, their set list full to the brim of their older songs which added a sincere touch to the show overall. Having only visited Bristol a few times, the front man made a point to say that they would be back throughout the whole of their performance, something that I don’t doubt won’t happen, as he seemed in awe of the reception that the trio had received so early on in the night. To further give his thanks, Lawrence slid off the stage and attempted to join the crowd much to the “delight” of the security guards who had to physically hold him back whilst he serenaded his fans for nearly two songs.
The tone of the show did at points slow down, giving the hard playing musicians a short break; ‘let it all out (10:05)’ saw both the lead singer and fans alike reach a state of therapeutic serenity which was beautiful to see unfold from the back of the venue. I witnessed many fans clutching onto their friends and significant others with their eyes fixated on the frontman’s haunting vocals.
Highlights of the night were definitely “I met you in a dream” which had a country like tone, further proving the adeptness and fluidity of the trio as song writers. “Brad Pitt’ was another showstopper, with its heavier baselines which got the whole crowd mirroring Lawrences eclectic dance moves. I would be lying if I said “talk to much” (probably one of their most famous songs) didn’t make me slightly emotional , a real pinch me moment to see such an electrically charged song played so perfectly live, my 15 year old self would be gobsmacked. Unlike some bands, the front man took a back step during “Who cares’ and the crowd was presented with a mighty display from lead guitarist Joe Memmel on his trumpet, which brought the house down.
The all American trio were given a mighty Bristol experience with chants of “CHUG CHUG CHUG” hitting all parts of the venue as the front man attempted to drink the entirety of a particularly large bottle of water, the band never ceased in having fun with the crowd and didn’t seem to want to leave; made obvious by the two song encore ‘ Loving” and one of their greatest successes “Crash my car” which saw the crowd thunder around the dance floor to bright rainbow coloured lights. The applause at the end of the show probably shattered windows, as it refused to end after five minutes which the band soaked up with reverence and love and if I’m not mistaken, a couple of tears.
Ultimately Coin’s performance at SWX was a credit to their growth as a band, with intuitive lyrics and a show stopping stage presence, I will most definitely be grabbing tickets to their next show in the city, which no doubt will be jam packed full of the same vitality as this show.
@rosie_sh00ts
Rosie Risdale @rosie_sh00ts
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
I am a portrait, fashion, and music photographer. I review and interview, and am also available for press shoots and album covers.
Qualification: Attending the University of the West of England for photography
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: The first gig I ever went to was to watch Bad Sounds at SWX in Bristol. The last was Conan Gray!
First gig shot: The first gig I ever shot was for an amazing band called Overpass.
Dream gig: I would die to see, shoot, or interview Loyle Carner!
