It’s finally feeling like spring time here in NYC, and what better way to celebrate than a concert over at Terminal 5. Decked out in summer gear (think flow-y dresses, jorts and a sea of band tees) fans gathered outside for FlipTurn on Friday, April 4. The 70 degree forecast had everyone smiling. The crowd eager to prolong their evening with some danceable music and choruses they could sing to for hours.
Touring has always been a fundamental part of FlipTurn’s career, even after their debut album, Shadowglow. Consistently out on the road, this Florida based band is celebrating the release of their sophomore album, Burnout Days. In fact, it’s a marriage of indie rock, alt-pop and new-wave sentimentalism, brought to life with developed instrumentals and rich vocals. Above all, Flipturn is unafraid to pull from their vulnerabilities. Using lyricism to discuss the weight of everyday expectations, while providing a chance to revel in nostalgia.
Around 8pm, the opener, Arcy Drive, took the stage with wide grins and a wave to the GA pit below. Attic rock with summer flair, rooting in folk, the band originates from Northport, NY. The group started with attic performances played at Brooke Tuozzo’s, Arcy Drive backyard. Composed of Nick Mateyunas (guitar/vocals), Austin Jones (guitar), Patrick Helrigel (bass), and Brooke Tuozzo (drums). Arcy Drive has been on the road in preparations for their upcoming album, The Pit. Still gaining popularity through social media streams and their “barefoot-shows.”
Their animated presence immediately had the crowd hanging over the barricade, itching to get closer to the energy pouring off the stage. As melodic guitar strumming filled the air of Terminal 5, the audience welcomed their nostalgic-style of playing with open arms. Hits such as “Louie” and “Time Shrinks,” transports the listener to long drives on the open road, windows rolled down as the sun sets in the distance. Before concluding with “Roll My Stone,” Arcy Drive debuted their latest single, “Rocket Chair,” released that very morning.
Excitement high, lights flicked off around 9:15 pm, announcing Flipturn’s presence. The set began with “Juno”, a song focused on balancing soft lyricism with synthesized waveforms. Fans were immediately transfixed. Band members Dillon Basse (vocals/guitar), Tristan Duncan (lead guitar), Madeline Jarman (bass), Mitch Fountain (guitar/synth), and Devon VonBalson (drums) fed off one another’s elation. Establishing an invigorating stage presence seemed to be Flipturn’s goal for the night. They turned back and forth to each other, monitoring key changes and balancing tempo shifts.
As Flipturn began playing the opening notes of “August,” the crowd went absolutely wild. With over 64 million streams, it was no surprise that the audience knew the lyrics quite well. When the chorus reached crescendo and Basse sang, August, honey, you were mine, the crowd chimed in. Hundreds of voices overlapping, in conjunction to multicolored lights flashing off stage and up the walls.
Flipturn’s raw vocalism and high energy continued onwards, playing other favorites such as “Glistening” and “Sad Disco.” Up in the balcony, audience members twirled each other around, dancing in time to rhythmic guitar patterns and consistent drum-work. Listeners seemed content with living in that moment, the rush and fast-paced style of NYC living far from their minds. A carefree summer-night in Manhattan except instead of June or July, it was April.
Flipturn continues their tour with stops in Boston, Pittsburg, Orlando and more
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