Live Performance Reviews

Tom Misch Makes Chicago Fans Feel It In Their Souls

By Stephanie Wanderling | March 23, 2022

Tom Misch in Chicago. Photo by Stephanie Wanderling

On Tuesday night, Tom Misch took Chicago on a soul-filled journey through his music, making fans say Disco Yes. Hosting his first show at The Aragon Ballroom, a much larger venue than his previous show here, four years ago on his Geography tour, which was at The Metro. It’s safe to say that the fan base has grown tremendously, all while Tom remains true to his music. Fans were packed to the gills on the dance floor, but everyone was very respectful about personal space.

The night was young and the crowd was ready. It began with the stage going black, then backlit the band members to be silhouetted. Tom walked out on stage and the audience went mad. Opening the set with the first song off of his latest album also titled What Kinda Music.

The Audience

Collectively the whole building was grooving along, with the sounds of the drums, bass, and of course guitar. Lights hit the disco ball on stage and everyone was ready to groove. I hadn’t seen a full crowd dance together at The Aragon Ballroom before. Usually, there are a few nodding heads to feel the vibe of the artists and some really dancing and almost performing a whole routine. It was a rhythmic delight. Soft subtle violin notes lull everyone into a peaceful state, all while Tom is plucking away the notes and chords to his melodies. The spirit in the audience was unrivaled.

Tom Misch in Chicago. Photo by Stephanie Wanderling

I was lucky to chat with some fans before he began his set and met one fan in particular who has been a fan since 2014, when Tom Misch released his first Mixtape, Beat Tape 1.

“Honestly, what I will say is that I was humbled to see the same creative innocence and sense of adventure that was apparent to me when I discovered his mixtapes. A lot can get lost in five or six years, musically and otherwise, but it was refreshing to see Tom Misch remain devoted to his intentions of playing “Real Good Sh*t” according to his merch, and having fun while doing so!” – Matt M. of Chicago, IL

Much to everyone’s surprise, he performed one of his Quarantine Sessions covers but did not say which it would be. He started strumming away and once the fans got a hint they figured out that it was indeed a cover of Mac Miller’s What’s The Use. This was a special one for the whole audience. The entire show was a gorgeous display of musical talent. I can’t recommend catching Tom Misch live, enough!