Hailing from Florida, the indie/folk band, 502s brought a wave of excitement and energy to the stage, igniting the crowd from the very first note. Their performance was an exhilarating mix of talent and charisma, leaving fans fully engaged and eager for more. For many in the audience, this was their first live experience with the band, and based on the reactions, it's safe to say they’ll be back.

The stage design itself was a visual treat, with orange and warm lighting evoking the golden hues of a Florida sunset, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening. Their sound, I describe as “driving an old-fashioned car on Route 66,” was nostalgic yet fresh, capturing the spirit of Americana while putting their unique spin on it.

The band’s comfort and ease together on stage were immediately apparent. They exuded a natural presence, with a theatrical flair that made the performance feel larger than life. A standout moment came when the trumpet player led a melody that had the crowd instantly singing it back during “Magdelene”  creating a wave of energy that rippled through the venue.

Dancing wasn’t just confined to the audience; the band themselves were moving and grooving, bringing a fun, infectious energy to the stage. At one point, the band took a moment to acknowledge a fan’s sign requesting "Bad Haircuts," which they promptly performed. This spontaneous gesture reinforced the connection between the band and their loyal fans. Then came "Wait Just A Little While," a track that had everyone dancing together. The floor quite literally bounced beneath the crowd’s collective energy as people jumped, sang, and celebrated. The drummer added an extra layer of excitement, playing with his drumsticks and connecting with fans in a playful, interactive way.

The most intimate moment of the night came when the band took to the crowd with an acoustic performance. The rawness and closeness of this performance felt like a personal experience, offering a different side to their sound and creating a memorable moment of connection between the band and their fans. With a show like this, it’s clear that Florida’s indie/folk scene is in very capable hands. If you missed them this time, don’t worry; the next show will surely be just as unforgettable.

Article and Photo Gallery by Taylor Byron