COIN

Article by: Brittany Ormiston

It’s hard to care about everything, but the band COIN makes life worth living. White strobe lights were moving at high speed embodying a wind tunnel. The title of their new album, I’m Not Afraid Of Music Anymore, appeared in bold white letters on a screen stretching from the ceiling to the floor. “Don't go breaking my heart // Just tear me apart // Take it or leave it,” sang Chase Lawrence (lead vocalist). Joe Memmel (guitarist, back-up vocalist) was running in place with unrelenting energy, and the Columbus crowd channeled every moment.

“You ever love something so much it hurts?” asked Chase right before the intro notes for ‘Valentine’ made the crowd lose their minds. This track is an oldie but a goodie, and deserves a permanent spot on the setlist. Chase reached upwards towards an orange image of a plug on the light panel as ‘Cutie’ came to an end. Since COIN was “not afraid of their catalog anymore,” they seamlessly transitioned from ‘Boyfriend’ to their first ever single, ‘Run,’ shocking the room in the best way. The infectious guitar riff, powerful drum loop (thanks Ryan), and the audience singing in unison created an electric atmosphere lifting you from the ground. After standing in disbelief for a few seconds, Chase mentioned the chemistry between the band and the crowd, and how special Ohio shows continue to be tour after tour. “It means nothing if you don’t listen. Thanks so much for being along for the ride,” stated Chase sincerely.  

The alternative/indie perfection of ‘Youuu’ was clearly a favorite as the crowd was dialed in, and screaming the outro at the top of their lungs. COIN placed the fast paced tracks on pause for a bit as Chase delivered an intimate performance of ‘222’ on the piano. “Columbus, we got…,” said Chase. “Room to grow,” sang the crowd finishing the lyric. A little therapy session was held during ‘Let It All Out (10:05),’ a cathartic track used as a reminder to take a moment to breath, let be, and know everything will be alright. The choir during the bridge sent chills down your spine as 10:05 appeared in red analog lettering on the suspended paneled lights. 

Ending the set (before the encore) with ‘Leaving A Light On’ was beautiful and heartbreaking all at the same time. COIN concluded last tour feeling lost, and considered the thought of disbanding. However, they decided to “leave a light on” to welcome themselves back when they were ready. They confronted their fears with I’m Not Afraid Of Music Anymore, returning to music and returning home to COIN. After an invigorating performance of ‘Crash My Car,’ the band wrapped their arms around each other and bowed while smiling ear-to-ear. Their brotherhood, cohesiveness as a band, and devotion to their fans was evident now more than ever before. We will always be learning and loving. COIN is a band, tell your friends.

Kemba Live! in Columbus, OH on October 12, 2024

Photos by Everly Ormiston