Cloud Nothings lead a four-band bill of gritty indie rock at Chameleon Club

Cleveland indie rock band Cloud Nothings played a killer, high-energy set to close out a four-band bill at Lancaster’s Chameleon Club on Sunday night. Blending the grittiness and raw power of garage rock with the high energy of pop punk, the band went in heavy and unrelenting; throughout the set, lead vocalist and guitarist Dylan Baldi was one of the hardest playing guitarists I’ve seen live.

The quartet performed songs from their latest release, Life Without Sound, as well as tracks from older releases including “I’m Not Part of Me” from Here And Nowhere Else. They had great energy in their musicianship, but the stage presence could’ve been a little more enthusiastic. The crowd nonetheless showed their enthusiasm for Cloud Nothings’ music through singing along and much head bopping. I wasn’t so keen on the muddy layering of instruments and vocals; I’ve seen countless bands in my life and it’s always bothered me when the instruments and vocals aren’t balanced. On the other hand, I’m wondering if it’s part of the band’s live sound.

Purling Hiss | photo by Lauren Rosier for WXPN

Philly’s Purling Hiss, the experimental rock project of Mike Polizze, performed as well and his musicianship was spectacular. His use of loop pedals featured a layered sound with his solid guitar work. “Run From The City” highlights Polizze’s punchy rock ‘n roll style, while his opening track, an instrumental song, showcases his musicianship.

Lancaster-based bands, Sleepy Limbs and Spill opened the show with 30-minute sets each. Sleepy Limbs got things started with a bang; the three-piece had a very indie rock sound that featured elements of math rock paired with the energy of punk rock bands. Songs like “Pocket Pin” bring out the band’s pop side while also featuring its heavy side.

Sleepy Limbs | photo by Lauren Rosier for WXPN

The second opener, Lancaster-based Spill, had a sound that blends the best of indie rock, garage rock, and punk rock into a genre only Spill knows. From the indie and punk rock of “Keep Coming” to the raw “All Right”, Spill performed a hard-hitting, full-on indie rock set that any indie music lover would adore.