On April 20, 2024, the Warsaw in Brooklyn became a sanctuary for the resurgence of '90s shoegaze as Drop Nineteens graced the stage after decades. Known for their lush, sonic landscapes and a pivotal role in the American shoegaze scene, Drop Nineteens emerged from Boston in the early 1990s. With their initial albums, notably "Delaware," they captured the attention of the alternative music world, merging noisy guitars with ethereal vocals in a way that paralleled but distinctly stood apart from their UK contemporaries.
This particular night was not just a concert; it was a vivid revival. The setlist was a comprehensive journey through their career, beginning with "Soapland" and moving seamlessly into the iconic riffs of "Delaware." The atmosphere was electric, fans swaying to the familiar drone and shimmer of "Gal" and "Mayfield," with the band executing each track with seasoned grace and palpable energy.
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"Winona," a fan-favorite, received a particularly enthusiastic response, as did "Shannon Waves" and "The Price Was High." As the evening continued, the band dove into "Nausea" and offered a chorus-only rendition of "Ease It Halen," a twist that left the audience craving more. "My Aquarium (Second Time Around)" brought a reflective mood, while the live rarity "Play Video" was met with cheers.
One of the highlights of the night was the surprising choice of covers. Drop Nineteens ventured into Lana Del Rey's "White Dress," transforming the track into a shoegaze odyssey, followed by a disco-infused outro on "Tarantula," which showcased their versatility and ability to infuse contemporary influences with their signature sound. "Scapa Flow" led beautifully into their ethereal rendition of Madonna’s "Angel," proving their mastery in blending genres and epochs.
The encore, "Kick the Tragedy," one of their most revered tracks, was the perfect climax to an emotionally charged evening, leaving the audience both satisfied and nostalgic for the days when shoegaze ruled the alternative music charts.
Photographer: Ehud Lazin
Drop Nineteens’ performance at the Warsaw was a poignant reminder of their enduring influence in the genre. For many, it was a night to relive their youth, and for others, a chance to experience what they had only heard in recordings. The band not only revisited their roots but also demonstrated that their music continues to resonate in the hearts of those who once swayed to the distortion-soaked melodies of the early '90s shoegaze scene.
