Dallas born trio, little image, have made waves as an explosive opening act with Bad Suns. Performing with loads of indie-rock vibes, they certainly leave their hearts on the stage. Celebrating some recent single releases “NOVOCAINE” and “RUN FOR FOREVER”, the pairing of little image with Bad Suns in a match made in heaven. Made up of Jackson Simmons (vocals/guitar), Brandon Walters (bass/synth), and Troy Bruner (drums), the three-piece are tight knit, appreciative of their craft and some honestly talented rockstars.
With support from The Ramona Flowers and little image, their tour stop at Vivarium, one of Milwaukee’s newest venues, featured headliner Bad Suns, bringing together three incredible acts to display their sets with only the highest energy. In combination with impeccable venue lighting and crew to make it all possible, the show couldn’t have been a better experience for the fans in the audience.
Kicking off the night, The Ramona Flowers gave a hint to what kind of crowd interactions this audience had in store for them. When Steve Bird (vocals) leapt from the stage and into the crowd, fans were not afraid to get up close and personal. Overall, their set was clean, dynamic and absolutely vibrant. The Vivarium’s unique skylights even had this venue very light and open during their opening set on the beautiful early summer day.
Before Bad Suns took the stage, little image prepared to perform their spirited and high vibration set. Opening with “THE PRESSURE,” this song’s chorus kicks in with fun, bouncing drums, while Simmons' vocals lead the way with passionate and powerful lyrics. Mixed with bold bass lines, this is one of their most up beat sounds, matched with serendipitous lyrics. Speaking on how the duress that influences their personal lives affects one’s mental health.
Starting their set with this song set the mood for what little image had to offer for the rest of the night. Throughout their set, Simmons spoke to the crowd with compassion on multiple occasions. Specifically, making it notable that Milwaukee has a special place in their heart. In 2023, they performed at the iconic Eagles Ballroom as the support act for Lovejoy at the Big Snow Show 17 presented by FM 102.1. One of the most memorable was the debut of a new song, which has not been released yet “KILL THE GHOST.” Coming straight in with intense drums attached with some unique synths and an extremely intense build-up in the pre chorus, this song is sure to be a new fan favorite. Accompanying the green and white strobes on stage made it feel cinematic, made for the screen and the stage.
We can float away / I’ll kill the ghost / It haunts the part of me that needs control
Fans may be unfamiliar with little image for now, but after their set, fans were asking for autographs and set lists, surely creating permanent memories for them.
To complete the night, Bad Suns hit the stage for a true rock and roll set. Mixing modern indie with classic rock, their fans are dedicated and truly inspired by their message. Fans in the front row were handing out some unique trinkets as well, custom made buttons with song titles on them. As the band did a quick line check, a fan in the front row got one of the handmade buttons into the hands of the bass player, Gavin Bennett. Shortly after, a touring stagehand attached it to his bass strap to carry it on stage with him the whole night.
After early success from their debut single “Cardiac Arrest,” this led them on a widely successful career filled with touring, interviewing, and performing across the world with artists like The 1975 and Halsey.
Bad Suns love to keep their setlist interesting, mixing in some covers with some songs. Specifically, during “Heaven Is A Place In My Head,” they mixed in a touch of “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan. All which fit perfectly in the range and sound of vocalist and guitar player, Christo Bowman. Also, during “Salt” off their 2014 album Language and Perspective, they mixed in a mashup cover of “LoveFool” by The Cardigans, which was featured on the soundtrack of the 1996 movie Romeo + Juliet.
Towards the end of their set, Bowman made an eventful and unforgettable entrance into the crowd. Splitting the crowd down the center, to get up close and personal with fans in the back of the venue. Getting even more personal, he made his way on top of the drink service counter in the very back of the room. Standing tall and mighty which has the crowd roaring with cheers, mostly everyone had their phones out to record the iconic moment.
Bad Suns is on the road with little image throughout June, leaving just a few tickets left to see this stacked line up for yourself. Get tickets here.
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