As a self-proclaimed “traveling all-star band,” TV Girl had high expectations to live up to, but their most recent show in San Antonio was a brilliant fusion of music, art and pure entertainment. The atmosphere was electric with a symphony of concertgoers, all united in the shared love of live music.
Having last performed at the Paper Tiger in 2021, at the Aztec Theatre, the anticipation for the show was palpable. The crowd was buzzing with excitement. The love TV Girl receives has not changed since they last visited the Alamo City, selling out their show once more.
With abundant energy, opener Neggy Gemmy blasted their electric pop tracks. The audience was enamored with their music, jumping and cheering for Gemmy. As the set went on, the fans’ excitement grew as they performed songs like “Gemmy Juice” packed with spirit.
At their merch stand after their performance, Gemmy voiced their appreciation for San Antonio and the memorable night they just shared with the audience. Their connection to the city was evident. “It’s really cute. I love it here, I’ve played here a couple times like [at] Paper Tiger.’ Gemmy remarked with a smile. ‘I think the smaller cities, the fans are more energetic.”
With Neggy Gemmy concluding their set, the stage was being set for TV Girl. Touring for their most recent album “Grapes Upon the Vine,” which ushered in new gospel elements for their tracks, paired well with the stained glass stage props. Even the slightest flicker of light would cause the audience to erupt with glee. Finally, the lights came down, and TV Girl took the stage, the audience’s cheers were almost deafening from the excitement.
Brad Petering, the lead singer of the group, in between the first few songs, announced to the audience, “It’s gonna be a hell of a show, hell of a show. We’re going to be pulling up our whole discography; fan favorites, TikTok hits, deep cuts, even songs that people don’t like that much.” As the night went on, TV Girl delivered all that was mentioned with tracks like “Not Allowed,” “Big Black Void” and “Lovers Rock.” While performing some of the latest tracks, like the previously mentioned “Big Black Void,” TV Girl changed how they performed live for this tour by introducing backup singers that aided in honing their gospel sound. Once “Lovers Rock” played near the end of the show, the crowd was the loudest it ever was, and for good reason.
As the last notes of TV Girl resonated throughout the venue, members of the audience were buzzing. The crowd had much to say about the show they just witnessed. Kierre Sloan, a UTSA sophomore film major and dedicated TV Girl fan, summed up the mood perfectly. “I love TV Girl. They’re a chill, groovy band. I’ve been a fan of theirs for a few years, and I was excited to finally get to see them in concert.” The sentiment seemed to be shared by many in attendance.
The live show was nothing short of spectacular. TV Girl ushered their signature dreamy tunes with an infectious energy that had the crowd swaying and singing along to every word. Here were two particularly unforgettable moments: during the show when the lead singer casually devoured a banana mid-performance, and when Petering advertised the Mountain Dew Code Red beverage that sponsored the tour. Petering sarcastically read the card verbatim, adding a comical touch to an already memorable night. As the band transitioned between songs, Petering took the time to describe the city as “sunny San Antonio” and TV Girl made sure to thank the audience for being a special part of their tour.
TV Girl’s San Antonio show was a testament to their musical prowess and their ability to connect with their fans. With a history of memorable tours and fresh energy at the Aztec Theatre, the performance was a shining moment for both the band and their devoted audience. If you have not already or were not able to, be sure to check out TV Girl for more news and you just might catch one of their next shows.
