Grayscale

Article by Brittany Ormiston

“It’s Friday night, baby!” yelled lead vocalist Collin Walsh as he stuck his tongue out, and leaned into the microphone. Grayscale owned the House of Blues Chicago stage, and delivered a performance filled with alternative-rock ear candy. With all eyes fixed on the band members, the crowd danced the night away with Collin egging them on. With tattoo-worthy lyricism and a hypnotizing soundscape, Grayscale created an out-of-body experience for concert-goers they most certainly will never forget.      

The dark lighting contributed to a captivating, mysterious vibe throughout the set. The purple and blue lighting cascaded down, and outlined the silhouettes of all four band members. When white stage lightning was intermixed periodically, it reflected off each instrument to create a sparkling effect. This emphasized the beauty and elegance of each guitar riff, drum loop, and saxophone solo. “She’s singing to the Motown,” sang Collin right before he introduced Andrew Kline [lead guitarist, saxophonist, backup vocalist] . Andrew delivered a saxophone solo that took everyone’s breath away. His bandana was hanging loosely on the microphone stand as every note echoed throughout the venue. During ‘Slipping Away,’ Dallas Molster [rhythm guitarist, backup vocalist] was incredibly invested in the music. His hand glided down the neck of the guitar hitting every note with such ease.     

Collin’s crisp, powerful vocals matched the riveting instrumentals with each track. The crowd soaked up every moment, and responded with limitless energy, engagement, and dedication. Collin held up the microphone stand as the crowd sang the chorus of ‘In Violet’ with everything they had. Per Grayscale tradition, he asked everyone to squat down as low as they could go and jump on his count during the instrumental break. The floor of the venue started to sway as everyone in the pit jumped in sync. “This wonderful place!” screamed the crowd to finish out the track. As the end of the set was nearing, there were some crazy crowd surfing moments to add to the mix which is not out of the ordinary for a Grayscale show. “We will see you next time!” exclaimed Collin as Dallas tossed his guitar pick into the crowd. The Chicago stop on The Blossom Tour was one to remember with Grayscale and fans collectively celebrating life, cherishing loved ones, and never letting the party die. 

House of Blues in Chicago, IL on April 28, 2023

Photos by Everly Ormiston