British rock band IDLES stopped in San Francisco on their long-awaited Beauty from Ashes tour earlier this month. The initial tour was halted in 2019 due to COVID, and the fans’ anticipation made for a positively electric atmosphere, one that fed the band throughout the performance.
IDLES embody the true essence of punk rock: gruff exteriors and impassioned lyrics to fiercely promote inclusivity and fight for the working man. This theme imbued the performance, with songs like “Mother,” “I’m Scum,” and “Danny Nedelko” each highlighting themes of equity and anti-racism and critiquing the elitist establishment. Lead singer Joe Talbot’s fiery performance emphasized the importance of his lyrics and forged an immediate emotional connection with the audience. One of the most moving parts of the evening happened before “Samaritans,” when Talbot told the audience “If you open yourselves up and share your feelings it may save yourself or someone else.”
Newcomers to IDLES may not have expected Talbot’s penchant for dancing. Despite the gruff exterior, the Welshman enjoyed, in his words, “shaking my ass,” even with a recent ankle injury that had him performing with less vigor than usual.
The aftermath of Astroworld was palpable throughout the show. Talbot frequently checked in on the crowd, asking “are you sure you’re ready to be good to each other?” before opening up the pit and thanking security staff for taking care of the crowd. Mosh pits were frequent during the show, and participants appeared extra cautious, continually checking on others. The displays of etiquette were heartening in the wake of such devastating news, and will hopefully remain standard practice as the world of live music moves forward.
IDLES in San Francisco
Follow Beyond The Stage for more updates on all of your favorite artists.
- PHOTOS: Yves Tumor – San Francisco, CA – 5/23/23 - June 13, 2023
- PHOTOS: Shea Coulee – San Francisco – 3/31/23 - April 17, 2023
- PHOTOS: Maggie Rogers – San Francisco – 3/5/23 - March 21, 2023
