Wallows Performs in Philadelphia on the Model Tour

Nine times out of ten, I’m dancing – and that’s exactly what I did. 

Photos & Review by Lara Ziccardi

Wallows is an indie rock band known for their infectious blend of alternative, pop, and nostalgic sounds. Formed in Los Angeles, the trio crafts catchy melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate with youthful exuberance and vulnerability. Their music effortlessly bridges the gap between indie rock’s raw energy and polished pop sensibilities, featuring upbeat guitar riffs, memorable hooks, and a laid-back vibe. 

Wallows released their third LP, Model, in May this year and are on a world tour for the new album. They played the Mann Center in Philadelphia on Saturday, August 24th. Lara Ziccardi, concert photographer and host of WMSC alt-rock music show My Emo Phase, headed to Philadelphia to catch the show. 

 

 

 

This is by far the biggest show I’ve ever covered. The Mann Center has an “approximate capacity of 14,000 and is the largest covered music and arts venue in Philadelphia (manncenter.org).” I love meeting and talking to new people. Oh, and I love dancing at shows. Nine times out of ten, I will dance while taking photos and enter the crowd. Since I enjoy Wallows’ music, I had a ticket for GA! My favorite song I heard while in the pit was “Scrawny.” Remember how I said I love dancing at shows? This was the song I went crazy to, with some help from the people around me. I also love hyping up the people already jumping, dancing, and having a good time – I usually stand next to them and join them. Another one of my favorites while in the pit was “Bad Dream,” off the new record. There’s something so dreamy and whimsical about it.

It was a great addition to the set that we got “Quarterback” in the modern year of 2024. After hearing “Don’t You Think It’s Strange” live, it’s one of my favorites from the new record. I can’t tell you enough about the energy in that pit. It was so energetic and engaging I didn’t want to leave.

 

 

During “She’s An Actress,” lead singer Dylan Minnette walked in the aisles while singing. I love it when musicians do this during their sets. Watching all the faces around me light up while he walked by made me so happy. And the best part is, he walked right past me and my camera.

 

 

During their B Stage songs, I was shocked when they played ” Ground ” from their 2018 EP Spring, which made its tour debut in Philly that night. In addition to “Ground,” B Stage also included “Pictures of Girls” and “Drunk On Halloween.” But back to the main stage, my favorites from this section have to be “Pleaser” and my all-time favorite off of Model, “Calling After Me.”

 

 

The night earlier at Madison Square Garden, Wallows returned to the stage for their encore with two songs – “Are You Bored Yet?” (where the recording features indie artist Clairo) and “Only Ecstasy” from Model. In Philly, we only got “Are You Bored Yet?” and I am not complaining. While “Only Ecstasy” would’ve been cool to hear live, it’s not my favorite off-model. I am thrilled I got to hear “Are You Bored Yet?”

 

 

Wallows put on an incredible set. Much like Two Door Cinema Club, they sound similar to their recordings. I also really enjoyed that they had three other musicians besides the three members—because of the additional musicians, their sound had more layers. I loved seeing Wallows – their music is so fun to listen to live, and I danced the entire time. If you have a chance to see them, I would highly recommend them. Oh, and if you do, be prepared to dance a bit.