Not-Punk Band IDLES Gets Summer Started at South Side Ballroom in Dallas

IDLES perform an unforgettable and unique set at South Side Ballroom in Dallas, Texas on their 2024 North American Tour.

As summer creeps around the corner and the temperature rises in Texas, the fans in line outside of South Side Ballroom in Dallas find themselves fanning themselves while waiting for the doors to open, and as they do, the venue’s cool air welcomes the crowd as they anticipate for their night to begin.

A lot of the foot traffic took place near the merchandise table, where fans quickly take their pick at an item in case it sells out later in the night. Others rush to the floor to wait for the opener to get the show started and the crowd moving.

To open up the night of fun, Ganser, a post-punk style band from Chicago, greets the audience and really begins the night with a bang. With their heavy chords and impressive vocals, Ganser sets up the crowd with a perfect high energy vibe to get the crowd ready for a night full of excitement and lively music. Before the end of the set, it was noticeable how the audience almost doubled as the band intrigued IDLES fans to take a look at their talent.

Before IDLES made it to the stage, the venue was noticeably packed, with late arrivals squeezing into the pit for a chance at a perfect view. Then the lights began to dim, and the band took the stage. IDLES includes Adam Devonshire on bass, Joe Talbot with the vocals, Mark Bowen and Lee Kiernan shredding the guitar, and Jon Beavis on the drums. As the fans cheered, this Bristol, U.K. native band began the set with a suspenseful yet slow lead-up to an explosion of powerful sound.

Whether the concert attendee is a long time fan of the IDLES or more of a newcomer, each and every being inside South Side Ballroom was given a show of a lifetime. Not only did the band provide the audience with amazing music and high energy sounds, but their stage presence was unmatched. With all members constantly moving, dancing, and engaging with the crowd, there seemed to be not even a second of stillness. With a bunch of their tracks involving crowd contact and stunts like crowd surfing, while continuing to play their instruments!

Unfortunately the phrase “time flies when you are having fun” did still apply to this amazing show, and although the band played a plethora of songs, the night eventually came to an end. With a sweat soaked crowd and a headliner out of breath, any person could see that this show was an extraordinary experience for all.

I am currently attending the University of North Texas with a photojournalism major. I love going to concerts of all genres, whether I am stage diving or headbanging, I never miss an opportunity to appreciate live music. In my free time, I enjoy thrifting for CD's and records, spending time with my cats, going to art exhibits, and traveling (especially to NYC). My biggest inspiration is Danny Clinch, and one day I aspire to open up my own gallery to showcase my work!