Gig: Into It. Over It. @ Exchange, Bristol
Into It. Over It.
Last night, Exchange in Bristol hosted a spectacular night of music that left an indelible mark on all in attendance. The evening featured a powerful lineup of bands that delivered unforgettable performances, each bringing their unique flair and talent to the stage. From the captivating energy of Sweet Pill to the technical brilliance of Tangled Hair, culminating in the deeply resonant performance of Into It. Over It., the night was a celebration of musical artistry and camaraderie. A special thanks has to go to Deadpunk Promotions for creating such an extraordinary event.
Sweet Pill
We didn't plan to follow Sweet Pill across the country this summer, but we're thrilled we did. From their intense performance(s!) at Outbreak to an intimate free show with SUDS in Reading, from a packed tent at 2000trees to this iconic night at Exchange, Sweet Pill has consistently impressed us. Each show brings something unique, with varied setlists and consistent energy, regardless of stage and room size. They’re equally as captivating in a small space as they are commanding of a festival stage.
Sharing Philadelphia roots with headliner Into It. Over It. added a particularly touching nostalgia to the night. Evan Weiss could be seen keenly watching the entire set from the stage's back steps, goofing around and cycling cymbals with Sweet Pill drummer Chris Kearney, and even joined the band for their penultimate track, "Blood."
Their music—a beautiful blend of emo, math rock, hardcore, and more—creates a dynamic and engaging live experience, showing off incredible skill from every member. The instrumentals range from powerful hits to complex melodic lines, while the vocals effortlessly shift from delicate and airy to powerful, full-throated swells. All of which are present in the recorded works, but seeing this group deliver live is nothing less than a real treat.
If you haven’t seen Sweet Pill live yet, you’ve got three nights remaining in their first UK run, and we couldn’t recommend it more.
Gallery by Ross Peacey
SET LIST
Where the Heart Is
Starchild
Chewed up
High hopes
Diamond Eyes
Fate
Red String
Cut
Blood
Dog song
Tangled Hair
Next up was Tangled Hair, a trio from South London known for their intricate indie-math-rock tunes. The group's performance had no airs of pretense; instead, it felt like a chill band rehearsal that we were lucky enough to be a part of. Their set wasn't slapstick comedy, but rather a humble, intimate experience that drew the audience in with its authenticity.
If there was ever a band that rightly deserved the title "a musicians' band," it’s Tangled Hair. Their technical brilliance shines throughout their music, making the complex seem simple. Alan Welsh, Alex Lloyd, and James Trood are virtuosos on their instruments, yet they perform without the ego or bravado that often accompanies such talent, letting their skills shine through their playing.
Despite the complexity of their music, the band maintained a relaxed and approachable demeanor, making their performance all the more engaging. The chemistry between the members was palpable, their interactions on stage natural and unforced, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Between songs the band praised their tourmates, talking about their friendship and real love for the music, noting the entire Into It. Over It. group presence attentively watching each supporting acts set - a respect too often not shown. When Evan Weiss tried to brush off the praise with a casual response, vocalist/guiratist Alan Welsh interjected “But that culture starts at the top!” Laughter from the crowd erupted, both at the comedy of the remark and the deeply penetrating reality of the statement. Weiss also joined the band to sing on their 2018 single, "Keith Nash," from their debut album We Do What We Can.
Gallery by Ross Peacey
Into It. Over It.
The night culminated with Into It. Over It., marking their first UK tour in nine years. Having seen them earlier this month at 2000trees, it was a privilege to witness their return to Exchange—12 years after Evan Weiss played the venue’s first-ever set on his solo UK tour. The feeling was nothing short of remarkable as this exceptional band took the stage.
Into It. Over It.'s music and lyricism have always resonated deeply with fans, blending intricate guitar work with introspective and evocative lyrics that explore themes of personal growth, relationships, and the passage of time. Weiss’s ability to connect with his audience through his heartfelt storytelling and raw emotion creates a powerful bond that transcends the typical artist-fan dynamic. A particularly memorable moment was when Weiss honored a fan’s request to play “Pinky Swear” delivering a gutwrentching, largely solo performance of a track from Weiss’s earliest release.
The set was peppered with interludes where Weiss shared stories of friendship and appreciation. He expressed his joy at finally getting to tour with Tangled Hair, a collaboration he had been hoping for over the years. The camaraderie was evident as Sweet Pill's Sean McCall and Chris Kearney joined the stage for a few songs, adding to the evening's special atmosphere.
Weiss's connection with both his bandmates and the touring musicians was further highlighted by the unique Into It. Over It. tour t-shirt. It featured the names of all three bands' drummers and the quote "a band's only as good as its drummer" on the back—a sentiment Weiss strongly stands by. This thoughtful gesture encapsulated the night’s theme of mutual respect and admiration among the artists, making it a truly memorable event for everyone involved.
SET LIST
Embracing Facts
Upstate Blues
Spinning Thread
22 Syllables
Midnight: Carroll Street
A Trip Around the Sun
Living Up to Let You Down
No EQ
New Addictions
We Prefer Indoors
Where Your Nights Often End
Pinky Swear
Adult Contempt
Fortunate Friends
Proper
Gallery by Ross Peacey
Catch Into It. Over It. on two remaining UK dates tonight and tomorrow:
23 July at Hare & Hounds in Birmingham with Tangled Hair and Sweet Pill
24 July at Fighting Cocks in Kingston upon Thames with Sweet Pill
Additionally, catch Sweet Pill on their final UK date on 27 July at Strange Overtones Festival at EartH in London.
