Speedy Ortiz, Washer & Hurry – Johnny Brenda’s – Philadelphia (A PopEntertainment.com Concert Review

Speedy Ortiz, Washer & Hurry – Johnny Brenda’s – Philadelphia, PA – September 5, 2023

On Tuesday night, Johnny Brenda’s in Philadelphia welcomed Philly based band Speedy Ortiz to the stage. Joined by Hurry and Washer, Speedy Ortiz put on a special performance celebrating their latest album, Rabbit Rabbit, released on September 1. Fans of the band gathered eagerly in the venue, excited to hear the album played in full.

Up first was Philadelphia-based band, Hurry. They began the show with a lot of energy, sharing how often they visit Johnny Brenda’s. The band connected with the crowd well, joking with audience members throughout their set. They opened with their songs “Didn’t Have To Try,” “When I’m With You,” and “Parallel Haunting.” They wrapped up their set with a cover of Teenage Fanclub’s “Don’t Look Back,” and their song “The Punchline.”

Next to take the stage was Washer, as they opened their set with “King Insignificant,” “The Waning Moon,” and “Threadbare.” As the pair stood on a dimly lit stage, their strong vocals and unique guitar riffs filled the venue. They continued with “Not Like You,” “Dog Go Bark,” and “Death of an Empire.” It was clear that the audience enjoyed their performance as the end of each song was met with cheers and whistles. Washer wrapped up their set with “Bass 2,” “Fail Big,” and finally, “Porky.”

Last, but certainly not least, it was time for Speedy Ortiz to take the stage! The crowd cheered as the show began, and Speedy Ortiz announced that they would be playing their brand-new album Rabbit Rabbit, from start to finish, for the first time. They began with “Kim Cattrall,” “You SO2,” and my personal favorite on the album, “Scabs.” Smiles could be seen all throughout the crowd as Speedy Ortiz’s smooth vocals and funky instrumentals filled the room.

They continued their set with “Plus One,” “Cry Cry Cry,” “Ballad of Y & S,” and “Kitty.” Speedy Ortiz talked about how excited they were to be playing this venue and shared their love for Johnny Brenda’s. They stated that they frequently spend their nights there, and that it was exciting for them to be on the performing end. After playing the 13-track album in full, they rounded out their set with a few bonus songs, “Raising the Skate,” “Buck Me Off,” and “Plough.”

This show as a whole was a lot of fun, with a lineup full of talent! Speedy Ortiz will be on tour through the beginning of December, so make sure to get out and see a show.

Emma Fox