AWOLNATION + Bryce Fox at the House of Blues in Chicago 2025 Front Row Music News

24 Apr, 2025 John Kosiewicz Alternative, Concert Reviews, Indie, Latest, Rock

AWOLNATION - Photo credit: John Kosiewicz

**AWOLNATION’s Phantom Five Tour Hits House of Blues Chicago**

On Thursday, April 24, 2025, The House of Blues Chicago pulsed with energy as AWOLNATION brought their Phantom Five Tour to town. With support from alt-rock powerhouse Bryce Fox and Hawaiian singer-surfer Makua Rothman, the night promised diversity and didn’t disappoint. Fans packed in early for a genre-mixing, high-energy ride anchored by AWOLNATION’s explosive new material from The Phantom Five. It’s been too long since we caught AWOLNATION (see gallery from 101WKQX PIQNIQ 2018 and post from 2016 )

The Show

Makua Rothman

Makua Rothman opened the evening with a chill, sun-soaked set that transported us far from the Chicago streets. Known as a world-class surfer, Rothman brought more than just wave energy. His laid-back presence and breezy acoustic rhythms felt like a warm breeze off Waikiki. While his set was short, it offered a refreshing and unexpected start that stood out. Check out the latest on Makua Rothman at the official website: https://makuarothman.com/.

Bryce Fox

Next up, Bryce Fox took the stage and immediately lit a fuse under the room. Armed with raw vocals and swagger, he ripped into tracks from his newly released album, The Bomb and The Butterfly, out March 21, 2025 via Nettwerk. His setlist included energetic performances of “Golden Boy,” “Bodies,” and “Psychopath,” while “Nasty” and “Lucy” kept the momentum strong. When he launched into “Stomp Me Out,” the crowd was fully locked in. Fan-favorite “Horns” had phones raised and voices belting the lyrics right back at him. Closing with “On God,” Fox delivered a set that felt both deeply personal and completely electric. With a powerful delivery and magnetic stage presence, Fox proved he’s more than just support—he’s a headliner in waiting.

AWOLNATION

When AWOLNATION took the stage, the atmosphere at House of Blues Chicago electrified instantly. Opening with the high-octane “Jump Sit Stand March,” they set a relentless pace that had the crowd moving from the first note. The setlist was a dynamic mix of fan favorites and fresh tracks from The Phantom Five, along with “Soul Wars,” “Run,” “The Best,” and “Barbarian.” Each song showcased the band’s versatility and Aaron Bruno’s commanding presence. The encore was a highlight, featuring a searing guitar solo that led into “Panoramic View.” In a special treat for the Chicago audience, they performed a heartfelt cover of Pearl Jam’s “Black,” with guitarist Zach Irons taking on lead vocals while Bruno impressively handled the drums. The night culminated with their breakout hit “Sail,” leaving the audience in awe and affirming AWOLNATION’s reputation for delivering unforgettable live performances.

Conclusion

Altogether, the night was a reminder of how live music can move, surprise, and completely captivate. Each act offered something different but fit perfectly in the night’s puzzle. For those lucky enough to be at House of Blues, it was more than a show—it was a full-on musical journey.