The Backroom Rumors, hometown legends, were making their long awaited return to Houston’s White Oak Music Hall with support from Elevator Days and Emma Ogier.
It had been nearly a year since their last local show. Hiatus was born from academic pursuits that had scattered the band across the country. For the packed room of devoted fans, the wait was over and the energy was electric.
The venue’s upstairs hall pulsed with excitement. Conversations between fans included phrases like “It’s been way too long” and “I’ve never waited for something this hard before.” The audience pressed close together, eager to reclaim their connection with The Backroom Rumors.
When drummer and lead vocalist Lily Pesikoff, bassist Evan Loftin, and guitarist Bo Farnell finally stepped onto the stage, the crowd surged forward with cheers and chants. As they set up their instruments, the adoration in the room was undeniable. Houston had missed them.
Guitarist Bo’s opening notes of “(Did I Say) Goodbye Too Soon” sent a wave of exhilaration through the room. The rhythm section kicked in and dancing broke out. The setlist included many fan favorites, including Rubber Band, the group’s first release. This energetic tune features Lily’s charming vocals and vulnerable lyrics. The song’s genre bending, funktastic breakdown was met with screams of joy from the audience.
“Slow Burn,” which featured bassist Evan Loftin’s impassioned vocals, and “The World Is Much Too Big” sung by Lily, brought a slower, more tender energy to the set.
An all-girl mosh pit broke out during final song “Ode to Dave Matthews,” a high-energy moment fueled by drummer and lead vocalist Lily Pesikoff’s raw delivery.
The Backroom Rumors are more than just a band – they’re a spectacle. Bo, typically soft-spoken, transformed under the spotlight. Strutting across the stage with a magnetic swagger, he posed for photos, leaned towards the crowd, and even climbed down into the pit, whipping the fans into a frenzy. His star power is undeniable, making even the most intricate guitar riffs look effortless.
One of the most iconic moments of the night came when Bo Farnell shed his sandals mid-set, sparking the audience to cheer for what has become a signature moment: “Bo’s Toes.”
The chemistry between Bo and Evan was palpable throughout the show. Whether leaning on each other’s backs, resting their heads on one another’s shoulders, or playing face to face, their connection as musicians was unmistakable. This bond extended to Lily, who anchored the band with her dual role as drummer and lead vocalist. Her ability to deliver vulnerable, heartfelt lyrics while laying down fire beats is truly admirable.
White Oak Music Hall properly honored Lily with a spotlight—a rarity for drummers, who are often placed in the shadows. The lighting design underscored her pivotal role in the band as front woman.
The Backroom Rumors’ return to Houston was nothing short of triumphant. From setlist to stage presence, the band proved they’re more than worthy of the hometown adoration they’ve earned. Fans left the show with sore feet, hoarse voices, new merch and hearts full of joy.
If you haven’t yet experienced The Backroom Rumors, you’re missing out. They’re not just musicians—they’re storytellers, entertainers, and the kind of artists who remind you why live music matters.
As a Houston native, I am passionate about the deep well of talent that Texas has to offer. From DIY shows to major label musicians, I just love to consume live music. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to highlight and memorialize incredible artists through photography and writing. When not on tour, studying at the University of Houston, or at local shows, I can be found reading, writing songs, enjoying soft cheeses, planning themed parties, and rolling down the hill at Hermann Park.
