Concerts

Architects at House of Blues

July 31, 2025

2695

Holywatr, ERRA, and Architects

Written By: Christie Bilbo

The House of Blues was filled with a sold-out crowd watching three bands light up the stage. The venue, which can hold 1,000 people, was completely packed. When I arrived around 6:45 p.m., the line stretched all the way down the street. Since the doors open at 6:00 p.m., I recommend having your ID ready. By 7:10 p.m., when I finally reached the doors, the lines had already cleared.

Once inside, the merchandise line was extremely long. I chose to wait until after the second song to try to buy a shirt. Unfortunately, when I finally navigated through the crowd to reach the merch table, I encountered the rudest man, who refused to sell me a shirt, saying, “You will have to wait until after the show.” That was frustrating, because once the band finished playing, the crowd trying to leave became chaotic. There was no way I was going to fight my way through the exiting crowd just to stand in line for a shirt. So, no shirt for me.

On Sunday, the outside temperature reached a scorching 97 degrees with no breeze, creating a sweltering environment. Inside the House of Blues, it was oppressively hot due to the malfunctioning air conditioning. Usually, the venue is kept icy cold, but with 1000 people packed onto the GA floor, it was uncomfortably warm. The crowd’s close proximity, combined with jumping and dancing, generated a lot of heat. I couldn’t have been happier to step outside into the fresh air.

Finding parking was tough because American Airlines, just a few blocks away and hosting a concert, had crowded lots. I managed to park at my usual spot for $10.45 at 1100 McKinney Ave. I noticed prices ranged from $40 for valet parking, $15 in the lot under the bridge, to $25 for areas further down the road that required a short walk. My parking spot is always well-lit and rarely full; on Sunday night, only about 50 cars were parked there. So, parking is never hard to find.

Promptly at 7 p.m., the opening band Holywatr took the stage. The band originated in Los Angeles as a solo project for Holy. Eventually, the other two members, Ice and Turbo, joined and formed the trio project. The band combines elements of R&B, alternative rock, and metal. The band has faced some controversy regarding their music. They have been accused of stealing musical ideas from the band Obscura.

The band recently released a new album in 2025, titled “Red Heifer.” With their hits “Fade” and “Make it Hard to Steer,” the band was an excellent choice to start the night. They played for 30 minutes and kept the crowd excited for the rest of the evening.

ERRA took the stage at 7:50, performing an impressive 45-minute set of captivating songs. Hailing from Birmingham, AL, the band is named after the Akkadian god of war and plague. Since forming in 2009, they have released six albums and gained recognition through tours with bands such as: As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red, Born of Osiris, Ice Nine Kills, Bad Omens, and Texas in July.

The band describes their music as “melodic-ambient.” Featuring Alex Ballew on drums, Jesse Cash on lead guitar and clean vocals, J/T. Cavey on unclean vocals and backing vocals, Conor Hesse on bass, and Clint Tustin on guitar, they delivered a lively performance. They kicked off with “Snowblood,” energizing the crowd. Their hit song “Cure” was met with great enthusiasm, with fans singing along. “Blue Reverie” had the audience crowd-surfing and jumping. They introduced a new track, “Skyline,” which was well received, and ended their set with “Gungrave.” As an emerging band in the metal scene, they did an excellent job.

The headliner, Architects, took the stage at 9 and finished around 10:30 p.m. I first came across Architects a few years ago when Spotify recommended them to me. Hailing from Brighton, East Sussex, England, the band was founded by twin brothers Dan and Tom Searle in 2004. The band has since increased in popularity over the years and have a loyal fanbase. Evident in this venue being SOLD OUT.

The first song I heard by them was “Animals,” and I was immediately hooked. They now feature prominently on my playlists, and I haven’t come across a track of theirs that I dislike. With their metalcore and progressive influences, the band has evolved their sound and is steadily becoming a formidable presence.

They kicked off their performance with Elegy and Whiplash. The crowd surfing was nonstop, creating a chaotic scene. Fans crowded closely in front of the stage to get a good view of the band. Songs like Brain Dead and Doomsday had everyone jumping and enjoying themselves. The encore was particularly memorable, especially with Seeing Red and Animals, two of their top tracks, leaving the audience ecstatic.

One thing I enjoy about attending concerts is witnessing families bringing their children. On Sunday night, the Barriere family was right at the front—Colten, Mariah, Cheyanne, and Carson. Their faces lit up with excitement. Meanwhile, their parents stood behind, ensuring they were safe from any pushing or shoving. The kids, holding onto the barricade and rocking their heads in delight, made for a heartwarming scene.

There were several children at the show, and I sincerely believe this is a wonderful bonding experience for families. A family that rocks out together stays together. I saw a dad with what seemed to be a 4-year-old, both wearing earmuffs. The child was eating a cheeseburger by the doors while the dad sat beside him sharing French fries. Additionally, a father with what appeared to be a 5-year-old was on the balcony near the railing, with the child jumping and banging his little head. It was a truly beautiful sight.

This summer features a variety of fantastic concerts to suit every taste. Check out the venues, pick a band, and enjoy an evening of music to unwind and immerse yourself in the experience.

I’ll see you at the next concert…for me it’s Primus! Live Nation Tickets