On Saturday evening, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, TX, hosted another brilliantly crafted show featuring the iconic Glass Animals and Eyedress on their “Tour of Earth.” Anyone who truly knows me is aware of my love for Glass Animals, so getting the chance to photograph and cover this show was a dream come true. To top it off, the usual Houston traffic was surprisingly manageable, which is always a plus. Upon arrival, I was amazed at how quickly the venue filled up. Merch lines were bustling with excited fans, many of whom wore space-themed attire for the occasion. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Glass Animals show without a parade of pineapples, and there was no shortage of those. Within twenty minutes of being there, everyone was fully embracing the Glass Animals vibe. Overall, it was clear that the band’s fan base is defined by passionate, diverse, and vibrant individuals.
Filipino musician Idris Ennolandy Vicuña, known professionally as Eyedress, opened the evening’s festivities, and his talent was perfectly suited for the bill. Eyedress performed several hit songs, including “Can I See You Tonight?”, “Full Time Lover,” and “Toxic Masculinity,” and I have to say, I was thoroughly impressed. Each member of his band on stage was in perfect sync, occasionally glancing at one another as if they were simply enjoying a jam session in their garage. Eyedress has a unique sound that’s difficult to describe; it blends elements of electric synthwave, pop, R&B — even darkwave and punk. It’s the perfect combination, honestly. Experiencing this live for the first time was truly memorable, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to discover such a chill, new artist.
It was finally time for Glass Animals, and holy macaroni, I was not prepared for such an incredible show. Fans rushed to their spots, eager to experience what they had come for. As many know, this was a long-anticipated performance, as the band had returned from a four-year hiatus with not only a new album but also a tour. The energy in the air was electric with excitement. I was instantly captivated by the stage setup…it was by far the best decor I had seen all year. With its space theme and vibrant, colorful lighting, it was mesmerizing. But how could I expect anything less? Glass Animals is known for their stunning visual aesthetic, from their album art to their merchandise.
They kicked off their performance with songs like “Life Itself,” “Your Love,” “Wonderful Nothing,” and, of course, “Space Ghost Coast to Coast.” I was completely in awe, like picking my jaw off the floor. Lead vocalist Dave Bayley strutted across the stage with an unmatched energy, engaging the crowd throughout the entire performance. He shared stories about growing up in Texas and expressed how much being there that night meant to him, which sent the audience into a frenzy of fangirl screams. Glass Animals continued with a selection of tracks from their sixteen-song setlist, including “The Other Side of Paradise,” “Youth,” and “Lost in the Ocean.” During “Gooey,” Dave got up close and personal with the fans in the barricade pit, even grabbing someone’s lit-up cowboy hat to wear while singing. It’s little moments like that which can make or break an experience for dedicated fans, and I’m pretty sure that act made someone’s year.
They closed the set with their hit “Heat Waves,” which had everyone in the crowd on their toes, hands in the air. Glass Animals continues to outdo themselves with the artistically crafted music they deliver…everything from the sound to the stage setup, the light show, and the emotional connection was on point. It truly couldn’t have been a better show.
GALLERY: Glass Animals & Eyedress at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Woodlands, TX (September 21, 2024)
