The first thing you’ll notice on stage are what looks like paper mache stars sprinkled about. On the microphone stand, the piano, and on Kate’s guitar. It’s a reference to her recent music video release for “Sweet Devil” - it’s a special Kate Bollinger touch. 

Kicking off this beautiful evening in New York City was none other than Kate Bollinger’s brother’s band, The Beak Trio! The experimental band, consisting of Kevin Eichenberger on cello, James Gibian on drums, and Will Bollinger on the banjo started the night with some funky tunes and unique instrumentation, hooking the audience. The trio played pieces that had everyone head-banging to the ever-changing tempos while impressing fans with engaging solo sections. They played titles such as “Ben, Bent, & Bemis,” “Rodeo Remover,” and “Tangerine Frecktie”-- all of which were composed by Will. The Beak Trio brought back the love and appreciation I have for experimental bands and were the perfect way to settle the crowd in for a fun-filled night with Kate Bollinger. 

Kate Bollinger delighted the Brooklyn crowd with the first track, “What’s This About (La La La La),” off her debut album, Songs From A Thousand Frames Of Mind, released on September 27, 2024. The crowd lit up and immersed themselves in the music with every new feel-good song Bollinger played. Kate Bollinger’s music and artistic direction often leans towards a vintage and retro aesthetic which makes for some fun visuals reflected in her music video productions, as well as her merchandise. Somehow, this show felt like a great big birthday party (and not only because it actually was one of her band member’s birthday). It also felt extremely comforting to be in the same room, experiencing the groovy, electrifying music of Kate Bollinger… it could’ve also been the vibrant rainbow colored LED lights, reminding me of a birthday cake. The night continued with songs like “Yards / Gardens” and “God Interlude” which was followed up by a funny moment where Bollinger requested her diary to be brought up on stage, as she needed to write something down. Though she didn’t actually write anything down, we all would’ve waited patiently for her to jot down an important entry. As the night was slowly coming to a close, Bollinger snuck in a beautiful rendition of “Only You (And You Alone),” originally recorded by The Platters, then later sung by Ringo Starr. Of course the setlist would not be complete without “Who Am I But Someone” from her EP Look at it in the Light (2022), containing the most fun sing-along portion. The crowd put their hands out and paused while singing the word “wait,” before continuing on to dance their hearts away. Bollinger concluded the night with her song “Any Day Now” as the crowd continued to groove along to this last song before having to say goodbye to Kate Bollinger and band, closing out this perfect night.