On Thursday, July 16th, indie rock band WILLIS played at Racket in NYC. Staying true to their usual brand, and following the release of their album “Locals 5,” they promoted with their slogan, “Locals Only.”
The Nashville-based band came to New York for their “Locals Only: Live ’26 Tour” for their second full-length album and continuing to many other major US cities. Throughout the tour, they are being joined by eight supporting local indie bands for openers. The openers for New York were The Flooks followed by Boyscott.
Even before their set began, one could spot members of WILLIS enjoying the performances of their openers. Once they did go on, the crowd was captivated, joining the band in singing their older songs, such as “I Think I Like When It Rains,” along with newer ones, such as “Clover.” Lead singer and bassist Murphy Billings spoke to the audience, introducing every song and tying it back to their identity as a band.
After their set ended, the band returned to the stage for an encore, covering “What Once Was” by Her’s. As people left, they made sure to stop by the merch table and talk to the members of the opening bands. WILLIS put on a great show and is now continuing on to Washington, DC.
Setlist: Real Vacation, Fight the Vegans, Clover, Slow Party, Lay Low, Magenta, Ballad of the Basement, Twist of Fate, Catamaran, In Between, The Move, I Think I Like When It Rains, CJ’s Van
Encore: What Once Was (Her’s)
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