Meldrop Stops by White Oak Music Hall with Lavalove and Oh, Hooray

The Tacoma, Washington indie pop group, Meldrop performed at White Oak Music Hall on April 1, 2026 as part of their ‘Melodaze’ tour with stops all over Texas.

I had the chance to get some portraits of the band for Off Record Media. In addition, I got an exclusive inside look at the band’s diy renovated school bus tour, also known as “The Cool Bus”. It was such a sight to the constructed dual bunk beds that were made out of planks of wood. I was told that they would pass time in the bus jamming out and playing with their instruments and most importantly resting after the long drives and late nights. 

Afterwards, I had the boys photographed on the venue’s staircase at White Oak Music Hall. Their energy was extremely infectious and lively that made the shoot much more fun. After a few fun shots of the guys causing some rambunctious chaos on the stairs, we headed towards the green room. We took a few more photographs on a black leather couch in the decorated room backstage. 

One of the most attentive details I noticed when photographing them together was the strong friendship and bond that they have with one another. Their witty banter and back and forth allowed for the authentic moments that were captured. Meldrop would suggest ideas and compose poses for the photos that made the photoshoot experience all the more altruistic. 

As doors opened, fans started to enter the Upstairs room, the buzz in the air was simmering and ready to burst. The opening local Houston native band, Oh, Hooray! known for their indie-folk and pop influenced sound garnered the attention of the audience. The second opener, Lavalove, a rock and alternative group from Los Angeles, California confronted the stage and rocked their hearts out. The band performed new tracks from their debut album, “Tan Lines” out via Pure Noise Records on April 3, 2026. As Meldrop finally took over the stage, the crowd went wild as the first notes began to play. The band reflected back the liveliness of the audience who were vibing out and dancing along. One of the most awestruck moments was the smiles and excitement of the crowd seeing the band and singing along their favorite songs. 

As their set ended, fans shouted for an encore which Meldrop graciously opted for. As the night came to a close, the band stayed after and met fans at their merch booth signing posters and taking photos. The genuine connection and appreciative support for the fans was admirable. There’s a specific moment I remember of a fan grinning from ear to ear looking at the signed poster in the middle of the room not believing their night. 

I also had the chance to get a few more quick polaroid portraits of Oh, Hooray!, Lavalove, and Meldrop to end the show. The whole experience was one that I’ll never forget.