On May 23, Foxy Shazam blew away patrons at The Masquerade in Atlanta, Georgia. Hailing all the way from Cincinnati, Ohio, this rock band took the Purgatory stage and made it their own. With opening sets from The Number 12 Looks Like You and Lobby Boxer, you could practically feel the room buzzing with excitement in anticipation. While waiting for the fun to begin, I couldn’t help looking around the room and taking in the audience. This line up brought out such a variety of people from different walks of life which was a testament that music is for anyone. Having never seen these bands live before, I had no idea what was in store for this night, but I was surely not disappointed. 

Photo Credit: Lauren Jones

Lobby Boxer immediately brought the energy and started off on the right foot. They quickly gained the attention of the crowd and engaged them, really setting the tone for the rest of the show. Their vibe was contagious and fitting for this lineup. They encouraged the crowd to square dance and had the entire room moving with them. 

The crowd was gearing up for the next band to perform but not before we got a show from the Hot Fix Sideshow. We got the pleasure of watching them swallow swords, stand on sharp nails, drill into their nasal cavities and even staple money to themselves. I have never been to a show where the intermission was this enrapturing yet mildly disturbing (in the best way). Ultimately, it was captivating to watch, and the crowd seemed to love it and want more every time. 

Photo Credit: Lauren Jones

The Number 12 Looks Like You did something that I have never seen at a show. They brought up multiple audience members and had them sit on stage and face the crowd during their last song of the night, wanting to show them what it is like to be on the opposite end. Not only that, but the lead singer, Jesse Korman, was in the crowd for more than half of their set interacting with fans. It was refreshing to see that level of intimacy. 

Photo Credit: Lauren Jones

The room was full and cheering when Foxy Shazam took to the stage. I was quickly blown away by their performance. You could practically see the love of the fans as they danced, cheered and sang the lyrics back at the band. It was infectious and all consuming to the point where I didn’t want to look away in case I missed any moment of their performance. The spirit of their music bled through the room and anyone walking by could see that. There is a reason that this band continues to do well and bring their fans wherever they go and this night was proof of that. This was one show that I will surely never forget. 

Foxy Shazam’s “Rockin’ Rolla Coast Tour” continues. See them in a city near you. 

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