As we head into the latter half of day two at XPN Fest, Blondshell, the moniker of songwriter Sabrina Teitelbaum, delivered a set that teetered from rage to vulnerability, striking a balance between indie rock and catchy lyrics. A last-minute set order change saw Blondshell rock out on the River stage instead of the Marina; a change that turned out ideal – the picturesque Philadelphia skyline was the perfect backdrop to their superb set.
Delivering piercing vocals and subtle dance moves, Teitelbaum was supported by her band, who provided shredding riffs, pounding bass, and thrashing drums to the set. “Veronica Mars,” set the tone early on, a brief track that draws back to Teitelbaum’s youth.
Raised in New York City, Teitelbaum moved to Los Angeles to study music, first releasing songs under a poppier project, BAUM. While certain songs still have faded pop characteristics, Teitelbaum’s music as Blondshell is a fresh display of alt-rock. It’s hard to believe that she only started releasing music as Blondshell in 2022; their songs have the air of something that’s been lived-in and finely aged. Perhaps it’s the introspective lyrics that make the songs feel timeless, or maybe it’s the pure emotion heard in Teitelbaum’s vocals, but Blondshell have the makings of an act that is here to stay.
Teitelbaum’s stage presence is nothing short of magnetic, with her casual outfit and demeanor oozing charisma. Belted screams and roars did little to shake her cool persona, instead adding to her magnetism.
Named an XPN Artist to Watch last September, Blondshell released their debut self-titled album last year. Many of the album’s hits, such as “Olympus,” “Salad,” and “Joiner” made the set, as well as a couple of new songs. The crowd was treated to a solo version of “Docket,” Blondshell’s recent collab with fellow XPN Fest artist Bully, and “What’s Fair,” their most recent single. Even though the track was released in August, the crowd around me already knew the words, singing along to the track, complete with and wails and riffs. Blondshell also played an unreleased song, “T&A,” which featured their signature witty lyricism and 90’s tinged alt-rock.
Highlights of the set came in Blondshell’s range. “Kiss City’s” vocals and guitar solo revealed a rapturous and vulnerable side, while closer “Salad” put female rage on full display. “Salad” chronicles a thrashing revenge fantasy, as Teitelbaum’s vocals reached their full power; unvarnished and brash, but raw and pure.