Bronze Radio Return Awkwardly Plays Crowbar

I was pretty excited to see roots-rock group Bronze Radio Return play a small bar-gig in Tampa on February 20^th. As a native of Connecticut, I may be a bit more familiar than most Floridians when it comes to this 6-piece rootsy group that has gained some popularity through three studio albums. 

Unfortunately though, that popularity hasn’t quite made it down to Tampa. Front man Chris Henderson and the group played to a nearly empty room at the already small Crowbar in Ybor City, FL. This was discouraging, especially after realizing that the majority of the people there left after opening band Red Wanting Blue finished their set. Even local favorite Mercy McCoy seemed to have more followers.

There are ways to still put on a great show, even with a small audience, but I thought Bronze Radio just made things feel awkward. During “Melting in my Icebox” they tried to get the whole crowd to sing backup, but there was more chatter than singing. Henderson himself also appeared very strange and goofy on stage, awkwardly smiling and looking very robotic.

This wasn’t the best show, but I assure you this band is good! They’re probably more comfortable playing up in New England for their hometown crowds. But they do have national recognition in some places - hence a respectable position on the Hangout Festival lineup.

But anyways, give these guys a try if you like indie roots-rock music. Standout songs are “Down There,” “Everything Moves,” and “Blurry-Eyed Worries.”

CONCERT RATING – 2 Stars

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