Show Review: Teenage Wrist at Denver’s Larimer Lounge 09.12.23

Denver's punk scene was out in full force on a Tuesday night as the Larimer Lounge hosted a packed venue for Teenage Wrist. The nights lineup featured an eclectic mix of punk styles, with Teenage Wrist joined by San Francisco rockers Spiritual Cramp and Southern California hardcore favorites Initiate. Despite their sonic differences, all three bands delivered performances that were nothing short of electrifying.

Teenage Wrist have been on a ripping US tour following the release of their August 4th release ‘STILL LOVE’ (via Epitaph Records). The band’s return to Denver brought an indisputable buzz. Walking through the venue early you could see the big draw the duo had playing in Denver again, and fans anticipation of hearing many of the ‘STILL LOVE’s’ new songs live for the first time.

The night was kicked off by Initiate. Their blazing guitar riffs and the powerful vocals of Crystal Park left an indelible mark on the audience. While their ferocious energy could tear the room to shreds with their intensity, Crystal Park also demonstrated her ability to switch gears and deliver gorgeous melodies, evident in songs like 'The Surface'.

Spiritual Cramp brought a unique and infectious energy to the stage. Lead singer Mike exuded old-school charisma, infusing every song with a blast of raw energy. The anticipation for their upcoming debut album, set to release on November 3rd (Via Blue Grape Music) was undoubtedly heightened following their blasting performance to many first time listeners.

The room packed in tighter and tighter as Teenage Wrist completed their sound check. The venue was entirely packed from the foot of the stage back to the venue's bar as the last moments ticked past as the crowd eagerly awaited TW to close out the night. As soon as the band hit the stage and started ripping into ‘Sunshine’. The cramped lounge felt massive as their huge rock sound projected through the space. The atmospheric elements that are laden throughout ‘Still Love’ translated perfectly in the live setting.

While Teenage Wrist is the duo of Marshall Gallagher (vocalist, guitarist, bassist) and Anthony Salazar (drums, vocalist, percussion), the duo has seamlessly integrated their touring members into the lineup. This collaboration results in a tight-knit musical unit that brings their recorded music to life in a dynamic and expansive way. They performed a mix of old favorites like 'stoned and alone' juxtaposed by tracks from their latest release. All delivered with the same unwavering energy and passion. As the night wore on, the packed room became an oven of body heat and jumping and yelling bodies. The audience remained undeterred, fully immersed in the sonic onslaught and catchy melodies coming from Teenage Wrist.

The show Teenage Wrist brought to the Larimer Lounge was a testament to the bands ever evolving and sharpening musical style. The band brought a killer energy that matched the vitality of Denver's punk scene. The diverse lineup offered a range of musical experiences that left the crowd exhilarated and eager for more. We can't wait to catch Teenage Wrist the next time the arrive they play near us.

Teenage Wrist will continue on their Fall tour into November. Check out the dates below and catch them live in a city near you!