benches, a four piece indie-rock band originating from in SoCal, performed to a lively crowd to Echoplex Wednesday night. Celebrating the release of their latest EP, Kill The Lights, the group kept the energy high, matching the constantly flashing lights with their vibrant execution of the music theyβre so loved for. Their set list consisted of songs from the new EP including βOrchidβ and βReachβ, as well as older songs like βIt Doesnβt Have to Changeβ a beautifully bittersweet ballad, which also happened to be my first introduction to the band. Lead vocalist Anson Kelley leads the charge with his compellingly powerful voice, supported by Evan Ojeda on lead guitar, Charlie Baird on bass, and Ethan Bowers on drums. benches is finishing up the first half of their North American tour now, but if I were you I would keep an eye out for future dates near you.
The San Diego quintet, Pleasure Pill, with a foot both both indie rock and Brit-Pop, consists of Jonah Paz (vocals), Ethan Paz (rhythm guitar), Luke Blake (lead guitar), Ivan Delgado (bass), and Dom Friedly (drums). Check out their debut album, Hang A Star on June 27.