LIVE // HOOPS at 7th St Entry, Minneapolis
Bloomington, Indiana’s outfit has embarked on US headline tour in support of their debut album, Routines.
Hoops brought their carefree 80s jams to the 7th St Entry last Thursday night with support from PARTS.
The Bloomington, IN three-piece were accompanied by an addition guitarist and a drummer to round out their live sound. Hoops‘ concert was a testament to their new album, building off of the clean-cut guitars in order to produce an amazingly laid-back set.
Opening with the first track on Routines, Sun’s Out immediately captivated the audience’s attention. The most significant change from their studio sound was an increase in details to percussion. Although Routines boasts groovy and poppy beats, having a full drum kit in during the live show elevated the recorded bliss, specifically during Going Strong, off of their Hoops EP.
Frontman Drew Auscherman’s extremely skilled and quick guitar work stole the show. During their instrumental Benjals, his guitar line was impeccable and bouncy, allowing the audience to dive further into the dreamy sound of this amazing record.
Other highlights included a few new songs from the trio and an absolutely amazing connection with the crowd and the band. The three joked about the size of Montana and professed their love for Minnesota’s own Prince.
Finally, to end the night, Hoops played La La La. This steady song off of Tape #2 is a simple pleasure. True to its name, the repetitive and almost hypnotic lyrics lulled the crowd into an appreciation of the band that is Hoops.
These three boys have produced something so wonderfully tailored to both their recorded sound and their strengths as musicians in this live set.
Photos: Morgan Winston