Philly Plain Dealer

Johnny Brenda’s hosted Sunday (1994) for their debut show in Philadelphia on Friday evening. If I hadn’t known the band was in the midst of their first headlining tour, I would have assumed they’d been doing this for decades.

They opened up with their song “Blonde” – a ballad about being left by a lover for another woman, changing appearances to look like her, and finding that leaving the past behind is what can end up making you feel free rather than superficiality. The song exemplifies how humans have a tendency to compare ourselves to others without knowing or caring how it can tarnish our own unique self image.

From the moment vocalist Paige Turner came on stage, the crowd was singing along to every song. With her white gown and long curly hair, she resembled a bride renewing her vows to the art of indie rock. Turner’s voice was polished and sophisticated, blending stunningly with the ambient tones of Lee Newell’s guitar riffs. Together with sit-in bassist Lola Colette of Laurel Canyon and their anonymous drummer who they introduced as “Puma” of Peru, they performed an electrifying show.

The band released their newest EP titled “Devotion” earlier the same day of the concert. They played it live and once again it was shocking that it was the first time the song was being played in front of an audience. Not only that, but fans already knew the words and sang along to a tune that was less than a day old. It was executed perfectly and it was obvious the band members all had true chemistry with one another. My prediction is that Sunday (1994) will be back in Philly sooner rather than later, probably even in a larger venue.