Safari Room Treats Chicago to New Music at Subterranean
In my opinion, there is no better way to spend a Wednesday evening than taking in new music at one of your favorite local venues. For me this is Subterranean, often shortened, “Subt”, and last night I was graced with the sounds of Safari Room.
Safari Room, is an indie-rock outfit hailing from Nashville, TN created and fronted by Alec Koukol (singer/songwriter/guitarist) along with Chris Collier (guitar) and Austin Drewry (drums). Koukol, an Omaha, Nebraska native, began building Safari Room as a solo project in the mid-2010s. The band has flourished since, releasing two full-length albums, Look Me Up When You Get There (2020) and Complex House Plants (2022).
However, last night I was in for a treat as the band decided to give their Chicago audience a first listen to upcoming music from their third, unreleased, LP.
Safari Room began the set with their newest single, “The Great Outdoors.” An atmospheric and refreshing melodic rock sound with a bridge breakdown that was incredibly satisfying.
Koukol delivers an amazing vocal performance throughout the set not letting up on intonation or phrases which made for an impactful delivery of lyrics while still showcasing the intricacies of their instrumental counterpart.
This was demonstrated in later songs “One Day Here,” one of two older songs played during the set, and their next single to be released 6/20, “Blunderbuss.”
“One Day Here,” opened with a guitar riff that I simply described in my notes as “yummy,” and the vocal performance on “Blunderbuss” conveyed incredibly introspective lyrics while still being relatable to a greater audience.
Safari Room’s closing song, “Strength to Stand” was anthemic and deserving of a larger stage.
From catchy riffs, seamless buildups, and breakdowns to a strong vocal performance accompanied by refreshing lyricism, Safari Room did not disappoint and I can’t wait to catch them live again!
(I even snagged the set list to write this review so I think that makes me officially a fan).
Find them on Instagram: @safari_room
Follow Safari Room on Spotify!
For their website click here. :)
