Forth Wanderers, Ó & The Obsessives – First Unitarian Church – Philadelphia, PA – May 4, 2018 (A

Updated: Jun 27, 2022

Forth Wanderers, Ó & The Obsessives – First Unitarian Church – Philadelphia, PA – May 4, 2018

Last Friday, the First Unitarian Church saw a youthful triple threat play through the unseasonable heat. Headlined by the superb Sub Pop-minted New Jersey band Forth Wanderers with the wonders of Ó and the rocking The Obsessives opening, it was an awesome affair.

Playing behind their eponymous new album, the Forth Wanderers showed off some real alt-rock talent. Led by the captivating vocalist Ava Trilling, they wove through a set of catchy tunes. Founding member and guitarist Ben Guterl was at the helm of the guitar sound. Guitarist Duke Greene, bassist Noah Schifrin and drummer Zach Lorelli add to the aural landscapes. Together they make songs like album opener “Nevermine” and “Not for Me” into glorious ear candy. Their future is certainly bright.

Gabrielle Smith, aka Ó, played the middle portion of the night. With a solid band behind her excellent alt-rock, she was entrancing. Set closer “Broken Necks” received some crowd sing-along treatment during a stellar nine-song set. With a new album awaiting release, there is more to come from Ó and I cannot wait.

The night began with the youthful The Obsessives. With hints of The National and some breakout guitar jams and keyboard harmonies, they were an awesome beginning to the night. Led by Nick Bairatchnyi and Jackson Mansfield, they showed off an explosive dynamism that is sure to only grow in the future.

Chris Sikich