The Backfires: Live & Loud in San Francisco
New York based indie rock band The Backfires performed at San Francisco's renowned Rickshaw Stop last Tuesday night. The band comprises lead singer Alex Gomez, guitarist Harry Ruprecht, bassist Matt Walter, and drummer Ryan Spiro. They have been touring the US, performing songs from their latest debut album, This Is Not An Exit, which is packed with highly energetic vocals and captivating guitar riffs.
Fans gathered around the stage as the lights dimmed low and the first opening act of the night took the stage. Local San Jose, CA indie band Cartoon Hearts took the stage, warming the crowd with their fun-driven sounds. Nashville, Tennessee-based Indie Alternative/Rock band Mercury was then welcomed to the stage. A very different vibe as it was stripped down to more of an acoustic set. I was taken away by the double bass in front of me as the color lights were reflecting. It was tough to pick a favorite song from their set, but I was quickly taken by their closing song, "Faster."
I noticed the lights turned red and admittedly knew the band was about to take the stage. I went into the show knowing which songs they would play first. I was indubitably hooked by their opening song, "Matador." The sensational feeling of the guitars within the first verse was addicting to hear. Harry was in constant sync with the crowd, moving around to fully use the stage. Many danced and took sips of their drinks to keep them hydrated. You could feel the fans eager and ready for more as the set went on.
The next songs played during the set were "Brighter Lights," "Figure It Out," and "Joyride." I caught a glimpse of the crowd, and people were moving their heads. I can't lie; I was also enjoying every bit of their set. There was just something about the band's ability to maintain such high energy throughout the show.
"Rock bands don't make EPs. Rock bands make albums," said Alex. I could tell that the audience agreed with what he said just by the cheers through the room. "This next one is called “Never Seen You Before”. San Francisco, we have seen you before, but this one's for you anyway," Alex exclaimed. Getting to see the bass take a bit of control of this song was mesmerizing. I could see Matt on the other side of the stage in tune with his bass.
One of the songs that I was excited to hear was "Preoccupied" from their EP Consider The Backfires. I caught myself playing the song repeatedly before seeing the band. It sounds as impressive live as it does through my headphones.
As the night was nearing its end, the band was getting ready to wrap up their set. "If you're not wearing all black like you're dressed at a funeral, this one's for you; this one is definitely for you," Alex said. "Dressed For A Funeral" was another song I was excited to hear live. The amplifying guitars filled the room. The band ended their set with "Blindside" and exited the stage.
Before coming to this show, I didn't know much about The Backfires, but I was interested in seeing them play live. Their performance was outstanding, and I was impressed with their dedication to putting on a great performance.
Check out the full photo gallery here.
Setlist
Matador
I Know You Know
Bright Lights
Figure It Out
Joyride
Turn Off The Lights
Song 55
Never Seen You Before
Aphrodite
Preoccupied
Going Get Easy
This Is Not An Exit
Replace It All
Dressed For A Funeral
Blindside
My setlist favorites: