A Night with Two Door Cinema Club & Quarters of Change

Two Door Cinema Club is an indie rock band from Northern Ireland, known for their catchy, danceable sound that blends rock, indie, and electronic elements. The band was formed in 2007 and consists of Alex Trimble (vocals, rhythm guitar, synths), Sam Halliday (lead guitar, backing vocals), and Kevin Baird (bass guitar, backing vocals). They gained popularity with their debut album, Tourist History (2010), which featured hit songs like "Something Good Can Work," "Undercover Martyn," and "What You Know." Their upbeat and energetic style, tight rhythms, and shimmering synths, quickly made them favorites in the indie music scene. Since then, they've released several more albums and their music has evolved to incorporate more electronic and synth-pop influences, while maintaining their distinctive sound. Two Door Cinema Club came to Nashville on 10/3 to play at a high energy show for Marathon Music Works. Their live show had an upbeat, festival-like atmosphere, with the band blending tight musicianship with engaging stage presence. Their set was packed with fast-paced, danceable tracks like "What You Know" and "Something Good Can Work," keeping the crowd moving. They often mixed in songs from across their discography, including newer tracks with more electronic vibes alongside older, guitar-driven indie tracks.

Despite their energetic performance, they remained musically on point, with well-executed instrumentation. Alex Trimble’s vocals were polished and consistent, and the band as a whole delivered the intricate guitar riffs and electronic elements that are key to their sound. While they weren't the most talkative band on stage, they often engaged with the crowd in a way that built excitement, especially during the peaks of their songs or at sing-along moments. Overall, Two Door Cinema Club's live performance was a high energy, musically advanced concert, and a perfect blend of upbeat indie hits and atmospheric tracks. Their seamless delivery of iconic guitar riffs and shimmering synths, paired with vibrant light shows, created an immersive experience. With strong crowd interaction and an engaging stage presence, the band constantly kept audiences captivated, solidifying their reputation as a standout live act in the indie rock scene.

Quarters of Change is a quickly rising indie rock band from New York City, known for their blend of alternative rock, indie pop, and post-punk influences. The band consists of Ben Acker (guitar), Jasper Harris (guitar), Attila Anrather (drums), and Ben Roter (vocals). They’ve built a reputation for crafting catchy, yet emotionally resonant songs with strong guitar riffs, energetic rhythms, and introspective lyrics.

Quarters of Change gained a loyal following with their distinct sound, often being  compared to acts like The Strokes or Arctic Monkeys, but with their own modern twist. Their debut album, Into the Rift (2022), marked a breakthrough for the band, featuring standout tracks like “T-Love,” which have earned them a growing presence in the indie rock scene. Their music captures a raw, youthful energy, blending elements of 2000s indie rock with a contemporary flair. As they continue to grow, they’ve been pegged as one of the exciting new bands to watch in the indie music world. The band’s guitar-driven sound was one of the highlights of their opening live performance. With two guitarists, Quarters of Change created a rich, layered sound that was just as intricate as on their recordings. Tracks like "Kiwi" feature intricate riffs and punchy chords that showcase the band's technical skill and give their music a gritty edge. The interplay between the guitarists adds a lot of texture to their live sound, making it both powerful and intricate.

Quarters of Change managed to channel their intensity while keeping their performance precise and well-coordinated. Their ability to deliver a both explosive and polished performance made them stand out, ensuring that their opening set was as musically engaging as it was energetic. The band also made a noticeable effort to connect with their audience. This sense of community was a key part of their live experience, enhancing the emotional depth of their performance and making their show feel personal and inclusive. Finally, their setlist was carefully crafted to keep the audience engaged. They mixed fast-paced, upbeat tracks with more introspective, emotional songs, giving their performance a dynamic range. This flow kept the audience on their toes, as the band seamlessly shifted in tone. well-rounded live experience that perfectly set the mood for Two Door Cinema Club.

- Grace Davis

Photos Courtesy of Grace Davis (For Bell Music Magazine)