Yves Tumor at Showbox SoDo

I remember catching Yves Tumor at Capitol Hill Block Party in 2019 and just knowing that they would take off soon. After a couple more records it seems like the world has finally caught up with this fast moving creative force. Their latest release, Praise a Lord Who Chews but Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds), has been widely praised and quickly landing on everyone’s top 2023 releases. Riding from the high of Coachella Festival, Tumor is finishing up a U.S. tour supporting their fifth record.

We headed to the Showbox SoDo which was filled with excited fans ready to experience the live performance. Tumor has been experimenting with so many sounds which seem to be appealing to a wide range of folks. Many were dressed up for a Saturday night, reflecting themselves as well as drawing inspiration from Tumor. Shortly after ten thirty the band appeared on-stage which resembled something you would find raving in a warehouse. Metal cage boxes with many intense lights, a lot of fog, and a mysterious vibe that you’re interested in exploring.

They kicked off with “God Is a Circle,” which they played twice as the sound was off the first. Then “Echolalia,” “In Spite of War,” and “Jackie.” The crowd went crazy right away singing along to every word and dancing their legs off. Tumor was wearing all black clothes with sunglasses, the back of their leather jacket reading, ‘Eat My F*ck.’ The very interesting I noticed was that their mic was decked out with a metal piece that looked like a dragon. New fad for artists?

As the energy rose in the room so did the energy within the band, very noticeably guitarist Chris Greatti giving it all. During the encore Greatti jumped into the pit jumping in the crowd playing his guitar. Highlights were, “Lovely Sewer,” “Crushed Velvet,” “Parody,” and “Secrecy Is Incredibly Important to the Both of Them.” Tumor went into the pit and interacted with their fans as well creating a very engaging moment. Their encore included, “Strawberry Privilege,” “Ebony Eye,” and hit “Kerosene!” that drove everyone crazy. There is not much you can say about Tumor except that you have to experience them live. There is something in the air and it’s an incredible journey to be on.

Words and photos: Sophia Barkalakis @s.barkalakis