It was a night of feminism, mental health, and staying strong.  Hundreds of As It Is fans gathered at the Tampa date of The Great Depression Tour:  Act II, where the topic of the night was, ultimately, depression. Frontman of As It Is, Patty Walters, mentioned numerous times during their set that the band’s goal is to change the way that “the scene” deals with topics like mental health and depression. Featuring support from some influential opening bands, this tour is helping to achieve that goal.

Three bands supported the UK-based band; the first was Point North.  In addition to songs from their debut album, the band’s set included their latest single, “Gasoline,” taken from their new EP.  The next band on was Hold Close, who recently dropped their debut album.  They filled the air with soothing songs from the new album, such as “Tropical Depression” and “Who Will?”  In contrast to the mellow pop rockers, the last opener was a band called Sharptooth. Not only did they pump up the crowd with unapologetic screamo songs, they got the crowd thinking.  In between songs, Sharptooth’s feisty singer, Lauren, gave very moving political speeches about feminism and not being silenced by society.

As It Is was warmly greeted by their fans, both new and old.  The band mostly played songs from their new album, such as “The Wounded World,” “The Stigma (Boys Don’t Cry),” and “The Question, The Answer.”  Old fans were also treated to some classics, such as “Hey Rachel” and “Cheap Shots & Setbacks.”  The band made it a priority to include all kinds of fans on this tour, which is why they were accompanied by an interpreter on stage.  There was also representatives from A Voice for the Innocent available to educate fans or offer support to those who have been affected by sexual violence.  Sticking with the topic of inclusion, As It Is brought up each singer from the opening bands to be featured on certain songs throughout the night.

This was one of the most powerful concerts that I have ever experienced, so if The Great Depression Tour:  Act IIrolls into your town, be sure to attend.

As It Is

Hold Close

Point North

Sharptooth

By: Christine Sloman | Exclusively for @Music, Why Not!

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