Bad Copy

Show Review

Beach Bunny with Pool Kids in Madison, WI

"I'll stay out of trouble in my big pink bubble"

Photo: Jenna Guffey

The day began with perfect weather—sunny skies and a gentle warmth that followed me as I packed up my car. I couldn’t have asked for a better backdrop to set the tone. I was especially excited because the lineup for the night featured some of my favorite artists. Beach Bunny is a staple on all of my summer playlists, and they just dropped a new album, Tunnel Vision, on April 25th. I’ve had it on repeat ever since. The record dives into themes of mental health, anxiety, and the complexities of simply being human—it’s both vulnerable and relatable.

Opening the show was Pool Kids, a math rock–infused emo band from Tallahassee, FL. I had been looking forward to seeing them live, and they did not disappoint. The band entered the stage beaming, their excitement visible as they bounced in sync. Their set was electric, filled with intricate riffs and a high-energy blend of math and pop rock. Their sound was as complex as it was catchy, and it made for a truly engaging performance. Watching and capturing their set was an absolute joy.

Then came the main event: Beach Bunny. Hailing from Chicago, they bring a unique fusion of indie pop and pop punk that I’ve loved for years. As I made my way to the front of the stage, I was met with fans wearing bunny ears and passing out handmade bracelets—and even a tiny, handcrafted bunny. The sense of community and excitement was contagious.

The band took the stage with explosive energy, immediately diving into their set. The crowd responded with nonstop movement—dancing, moshing, and singing along. Lead vocalist Lili Trifilio encouraged crowd surfing and pit-forming, adding to the wild, joyful chaos. You could feel the floor shake beneath your feet from the energy in the room. Beach balls bounced through the air as fans reveled in the experience.

It was one of those nights where the connection between artist and audience was undeniable. Capturing the performance was not just fun—it was unforgettable. Check out my photos below!

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