DNCE & Powers Live Review

The snow started coming down right before the doors opened for DNCE and Powers’ last tour date in Chicago, IL at The Bottom Lounge.  Powers kicked off the night and this duo blew me away.  They take retro beats and add a contemporary flair.  As soon as I got home I downloaded their music they were that good.

The crowd was a little over half way filled with Jonas Brothers fans I recognized from years past at Chicago shows, it was weird to see everyone grown up and still supporting Joe.  But there also was a good chunk of new faces in the crowd loving DNCE’s throwback indie tracks off their debut EP Swaay. Even though everyone was grown up the high pitched screams (even from the guys) were still very well present.  

The band comprised of Joe Jonas, JinJoo, Cole Whittle, and Jack Lawless. Each member brought something different to the table. Cole’s energy was the most powerful I’ve ever seen.  He was bouncing, taking bro-drinks with Joe, and playing bass and keyboards.  Jack’s drum facials were something to be reckoned with. JinJoo is one of the greatest guitar players I’ve seen live.  She is so relaxed and able to play with a ferocity that’s to be admired. Joe is a great frontman with mind boggling vocals the way he hits some of the intensely high notes.  All together they create an insanely talented group that genuinely have passion for performing and their music.

The band performed their four songs on their EP, it was a whole other experience to see the tracks performed live. The band even performed a 90’s medley including Scrubs, Waterfalls, and Thong.  It was one of the greatest representations of the best 90’s music. I completely lost it when they started performing Prince’s Kiss.

To close off the night the band performed Cake By The Ocean, at the very end We Are The Champions rang out and everyone was singing and jumping along.  The band came out with a trophy, throwing the cardboard cutouts and DNCE balloons.  Joe filled the trophy with what looked like water or champagne and threw it on Cole.  It was the perfect ending for a great tour. Be sure to check them out on their string of Jingle Ball dates and their EP Swaay.