Written by: Christie Bilbo
During a sold-out concert last night, the House of Blues featured two Texas native bands. Icarus Bell and Blue October drew a line of fans stretching down two blocks, eager to enter. Even in the hot, humid weather, the fans endured the heat, and anticipation filled the air.
Parking was difficult to find, as the lots behind the venue were full. The past several shows, I’ve started parking in a lot that isn’t under the bridge. At $10 per day, I’m content with my choice of parking there. The lot is never full, and I always get prime parking under the light, ensuring I’m in a brightly lit area. For me, the bonus is that I get out faster and don’t have to wait for pedestrians to move or for cars backing out, which would delay my escape.
I want to give everyone a heads up when attending any event at the House of Blues: have your ID ready and accessible. People often slow down the lines as they search through their wallets and purses to find it. If you don’t have an ID handy, you won’t get the wristband to purchase alcohol. So, if you are planning to drink while there, be prepared.
Once inside, as you descend the stairs to where general admission is located, everything starts hopping. People swarm the bars to order drinks and then try to figure out the best place to stand to see the stage. If you want to sit, VIP will set you back; it’s $75 for the table. For that price, you get a table and four chairs with a great view of the stage, plus a waitress to fetch you drinks.
Icarus Bell is a unique band comprising two prominent members: William Noveskey, who provides lead vocals and plays bass guitar, and Alan Adams, who plays the drums. With Will being a member of Blue October, the duo is never without a friend willing to step in and help play. On their debut album, they feature Jeff Freidl from A Perfect Circle and musicians such as Bumblefoot, who step in to help make this duo a sensation.
They fall into the genre of progressive rock, but they have a heavy bass undertone. With their 2024 album, “The Great Collapse,” songs like “Vultures” feature a lighter sound but a catchy groove. “Bones” is heavier on the bass and drums. The lyrics hit hard, telling of someone trying to hide the past, but what you bury will always come back to haunt you eventually.
Icarus Bell may be a side project for Matt Noveskey, but in my opinion, they are a great choice of new music to start listening to in your rotations. They have a fantastic groove that I genuinely enjoy.
Blue October took the stage at 8:40 p.m. and delivered an impressive two-hour concert. While I’ve always appreciated their music, I just recently learned they are from Houston, Texas. The band is led by Justin Furstenfield on vocals and guitar, accompanied by his brother Jeremy Furstenfeld, Ryan Delahoussaye on violin, Matt Noveskey on bass, and Steve Schiltz on lead guitar. Known for their alternative rock sound, they have maintained a significant presence since their formation in 1995.
They opened their 24-song set with the popular track “Ugly Side.” The audience stood up, hands raised, singing along enthusiastically. Along with other favorites like “Calling You,” “Breakfast After 10,” and “Razorblade,” the band ensured everyone enjoyed a beloved tune. Yet, it was when Justin and Jeremy performed “For My Brother” that the deep affection and admiration between them truly resonated. Those around me were eager for this song to be performed that night.
The four encore songs electrified the crowd. With tracks like “Into the Ocean,” “Hate Me,” “Hot Stuff,” and “I Hope You’re Happy,” Blue October energized the venue. These impactful songs resonate deeply with many, including me, and they brought immense joy to the evening.
What I love about Blue October is that all their songs are heavy and meaningful. The guys don’t hold back on their emotions and show us the deep, dark parts of their lives that many of us don’t want the world to see. I remember six years ago when I was getting sober; I was lying in bed, having DTs, and wishing I would die. I had my music playing softly, and when this song came on, I truly felt every word he sang. I remember thinking about how I ruined every friendship and relationship I had in my life, all because of alcohol. I never felt more alone, and I hated myself for the 32 years I wasted at the bottom of a bottle of whiskey or anything I could get my hands on. As I lay there in pain, believing the world would be better without me, I promised myself that if I survived the detox, I would never touch alcohol again.
October 15, 2019, marked my last drink. The greatest gift I gave myself was sobriety. Sometimes in life, a song resonates so profoundly that it feels as if it’s narrating your life story; that’s what Blue October did for me during my most profound, darkest moments.
This summer, we have some amazing bands coming through the DFW area. Get a ticket, and I’ll see y’all at the next concert!
