New Zealand Takes Over Nashville

The first of November began with a bang as Down Under bands the Beths and Phoebe Rings rocked Nashville’s Brooklyn Bowl. The show spanned across multiple genres of music, making it a fun night for anyone in the audience. The night began with opening band Phoebe Rings, a group hailing from Auckland, New Zealand (similarly to the headlining band, the Beths). The first timers to Nashville earned their spot to perform in Music City as they serenaded the audience with their dreamy vocals and jazzy instrumentals. The audience held back any need for conversation as they focused their attention on the band throughout the whole set. Lead singer Crystal centered the band as she played the keys, but the other band members equally commanded their spot on stage as they played their respective instruments. The natural chemistry amongst the band members shone through the pristine playback of their set, making their performance a casual yet captivating watch. 

After a dreamy session from Phoebe Rings, the Beths took their places on a stage adorned with an array of lamps and a hand painted backdrop donning the band’s name in a twist of flower-dotted vines. They kicked off their set with the title track from their 2025 album, “Straight Line Was a Lie.” The band graced the audience by playing every track from this recent album at some point during the show. These tracks weave through the classic indie rock vibes that the Beths are known for, but they also have moments where things slow down and the audience can really take in the lyrics that center around themes of growth, change, and healing. Lead singer Elizabeth Stokes delivered an incredible performance with both her vocals and skills on the acoustic and electric guitar, also receiving back up vocals from the other band members Benjamin, Jonathan, and Tristan. Similarly to the opening band, the Beths had a palpable chemistry that made each member hold an equal weight on stage, allowing everyone to have a chance to shine and showcase their talents. For example, guitarist Jonathan whipped out a recorder for several songs and Stokes would occasionally play next to the drum kit to bring attention to drummer Tristan. The Beths gave a show that any fan of theirs would enjoy by playing the entirety of their newest album and bringing back tracks from the earliest parts of their discography. The city of Nashville filled up every inch of Brooklyn Bowl for a post Halloween treat of great music from both Down Under bands.

- GC Moorman

Photos Courtesy of GC Moorman (For Bell Music Magazine)