As a long term Sports listener, I was excited to see how the Oklahoma trio would translate their indie dream pop sound to a live setting. A sold out, packed venue buzzing with anticipation, was perfectly set up by the dreamy indie sounds of opening act, Pool Girl. 

Following her, Sports’ set struck a good balance between their newer releases and older favourites, offering something for both longtime listeners and newer fans. Lead singer and keyboardist Cale Chronister effortlessly built the crowd’s energy throughout the night, moving between guitar, vocals and the keyboard positioned at the side of the stage. By the end, the room felt almost nostalgic, jumping along to Whatever You Want with your friends, just like you did back in 2016.

Jesse Perdue and Christian Theriot complete the trio, bringing the band’s sound together with an effortless sense of rhythm. Some tracks opened with heavier synths, while the three musicians nodded along in sync, fully immersed in their music.

All in all, Sports delivered a set that captured the charm of their recorded sound while bringing a renewed energy to it live. A thoroughly enjoyable gig that left me with a new, deeper appreciation of their sound. 

Two tracks from their new album that particularly stood out –  Nice 2 Meet Myself (Bang Bang Bang) and Keep Falling In Love.

Article: Afton Murdoch