At a crowded Halloween night performance in San Diego, the up-and-coming indie rock band Geese gave a powerful, precise show indicative of a group on the rise.
Stream: “Au Pays du Cocaine” – Geese
On Halloween night, darkness blankets the Quartyard, where costumed fairies and cowboys in 3D glasses gather by the entrance. A nun rushes past me, holding a lit cigarette at arm’s length while her habit flows behind her like a cape. I attempt to count the sailors in their oversized green coats but lose track after twenty-six. Nearby, three teenage boys are speculating: “But dude, what do you think they’ll start with? ‘Cowboy Nudes’?” They excitedly list track titles and debate as if they were scholars, all in agreement that “Trinidad” will end the show. A friendly goose presents me with a fan-made Geese zine that features a laminated zero dollar bill with Cameron Winter’s face replacing Washington’s. Another fan hands me stickers, saying, “Take one and pass it on.” This is the kind of devotion Geese evokes, which is impressive for a band that has only been around for a few years. Their tour dates consistently sell out, with resale prices soaring to three times the original in some cities despite attempts to curb it. They are the most sought-after ticket this fall. Led by Cameron Winter, with Emily Green on guitar, Dominic DiGesu on bass, and Max Bassin on drums, they are a young band creating truly exceptional music. Winter’s solo album Heavy Metal (a unique and brilliant record that attracted many cigarette-toting fans) fueled the Geese phenomenon last year, but it’s their latest album Getting Killed that has everyone buzzing right now. It’s a rare, unqualified showcase.
Geese: ‘Getting Killed’ Never Sounded So Good:: REVIEW ::
The venue tonight is small and was presumably booked before the band gained their current popularity; their management has already arranged larger venues for select shows next year, so I’m grateful to see them on a more intimate stage. A long merchandise line winds its way through the venue, and there's an electric anticipation in the atmosphere. A gray-haired fan approaches to chat, noticing my media pass. He reminisces about old credentials he still has from Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers shows during his music industry days and shares how he and his wife adore Geese. He jokes that he might be the oldest person here, which could be true, but his presence, alongside college students and thirty-somethings, highlights Geese's current appeal, attracting long-time fans and new listeners alike.
While we await the show, someone near the stage removes their shirt to reveal “SOY BOMB” written in black across their chest. A group wearing red DEVO hats has claimed a spot near the soundboard. When the opening act, Dove Ellis, steps on stage with a saxophonist, his vocal intensity reminds me of Jeff Buckley. It’s Ellis’ first night on tour with Geese, and he’s outstanding, which is crucial as the timing and location are pivotal for a great performance.
When the house lights dim, a surge of sailors and clowns rushes in. The band emerges dressed casually, uncostumed aside from DiGesu’s amusing hat, and launches straight into “Husbands.” Green’s guitar emits a bright, sharp tone, and while her on-stage presence is somewhat understated, she clearly has complete control when she rings out notes and abruptly silences them with her palm. Bassin’s drumming is driving and tense, with DiGesu's bass providing a solid foundation. Winter's vocals are purposeful and resonant: “I’ll repeat what I say, but I’ll never explain.” Throughout the night, he plays with the studio melodies, altering phrases and stretching syllables so that it’s difficult for anyone to sing along, though they enthusiastically try.
For musicians in their early twenties, Geese exhibits a level of precision that feels seasoned. They don’t chat much between songs, which is fine, as their concentration speaks volumes. They navigate the setlist with a cautious awareness, as if they understand they are being closely watched. After all, their fans include high-profile names like Patti Smith, Cillian Murphy, and Julian Casablancas—people whose opinions will become part of music history.
The concert continues, with the band catering to the audience's requests by performing beloved tracks from 3D Country and Getting Killed. By the transcendental “2122,” the crowd is a chaotic mix of drooping sweaty wigs and smeared face paint. Nearby, someone is body-surfing, and several inflated goose balloons float above the audience. When the band plays a three-song medley from the Stooges’ Fun House, the crowd hesitates, perhaps unsure if these are
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During a crowded Halloween night performance in San Diego, the swiftly ascending indie rock band Geese showcased a powerful and precise display, characteristic of a group on the rise.