A Crowd Pleaser

Caitlin Friel / contributing photographer Famous Last Words, Murphy's Kids, I'd Rather Die and Through the Harlot's Eyes played Monday to a apacked crowd at Mainstreet Bar & Grill. Through the Harlot's Eyes (above), a band from Virginia Beach, pumped up the crowd with their energy and enthusiasm.

It’s Monday night of midterm week, and you’ve had enough cups of coffee and bad chemistry equations to make your stomach turn. Instead of making one more trip to Wilson Hall for more coffee, why not take a serious study break and head down to Mainstreet Bar & Grill for some live music? Some students did Monday night for an amazing show.

Four bands — Famous Last Words, Murphy’s Kids, I’d Rather Die and Through the Harlot’s Eyes — rocked out. The bands are with the Ceerius label, a clothing and music company based out of Virginia Beach and are a mix of post-hardcore punk, ska and metal.

"We cover things that happen in everyday life, whether you’re 13 or 84," said Christian Atkins, lead singer and guitarist of Famous Last Words. "It’s all about experiences."

The turnout was exceptional — about 100 people were there when the show began — for a Monday night, and the smiles on the faces of the crowd were proof of the audience’s excitement. People were throwing back their arms and kicking up their feet.

"I’ve been a big fan for a couple years," junior Michael Dolce said. "[Murphy’s Kids] music appeals to all tastes."

Junior Reid Attaway, guitarist of Murphy’s Kids, said his favorite part about being in a band is "playing for people who have never seen us and having them connect."

Senior Paul Riley, trombone player of Murphy’s Kids, said his favorite thing about music is that it takes him to another place. "You can have all the shit in the world on your back, but when the lights hit you and the music is pumping through your veins, none of it matters."

Next time these bands are in town, put down your pen and close your book. Head down to Main Street for the show — it’s sure to be entertaining.