When I first saw Icon for Hire at So What! Music Festival earlier this year, I just knew I had to photograph them again. Their energy and connection on stage is astounding. Many critics in the past have said things like, “They’re trying too hard to be different,” or “They want to stand out, but they’re the same as everyone else.” Those critics are incredibly wrong. Icon for Hire is an unbelievably amazing band. Their love for their fans is evident in the way they perform and by the way they speak to the crowd. “There is room to be human here,” says lead singer, Ariel Bloomer, as she led the crowd into an amazing cover of Linkin Park’s ‘Bleed it Out.’ Everyone in the room felt that-“There’s room to be human.” No matter what our differences are, what the color of our skin is, Icon for Hire stands on a very important world view; that we ALL matter and there is room for us all.
ICON FOR HIRE | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | X | FACEBOOK
Opening act, Halocene, entered onto the stage with a strong, determined presence. Halocene has been one of my personal favorite bands since their start on YouTube in the mid-late 2000s. Addie’s vocals never cease to fail in anything she sings, especially epic acoustic covers, like “Bury Me” by 30 Seconds to Mars. With everyone’s phone lights out, the venue’s disco ball spinning, and the audience swaying to the sound of Addie’s voice, the moment was truly magical.
HALOCENE | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | X | FACEBOOK
Headliner, Citizen Solider, a band from Salt Lake City, Utah, focuses on the importance of mental health, and finding your peace within music. Frontman, Jake Segura, jokingly stated during the show, “If you’re here, you probably have issues” (How did he know I was there, ha ha). I fully believe in the healing power of music, and Citizen Solider is one of those bands who one hundred percent helped many overcome their struggles, including myself.
If you or someone you know is struggling mentally, please do not hesitate to reach out with music, resources, and support. Mental health does matter, and it always will matter. Let’s take notes from these three terrific bands, and let’s be there for one another, no matter what.
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