Loving With Fog Lake at The Regent Theater: 3/1/24

Loving, taken by Atikis Curiel

The Canadian Beatles is what describes Loving if someone were to ask me. Their music can go from melancholic to whimsical with a touch of classical piano, soft vocals, and an upbeat sound that makes you feel like a whimsical little dude. Their music is reminiscent of The Beatles, specifically the Sargent Pepper album. Hell, some band members look like they belong in The Beatles. There’s also some Indie-Folk happening in some of their songs. They’re a band you listen to any season; their entire catalog has songs that fit the vibe you may be looking for on a day you stay home or self-care days. 

I forgot how I was introduced to Loving. Spotify or YouTube recommended it. Either way, I’ve been listening to them for some time now and waiting for them to return and tour. This year was my lucky year when they released their newest album, “Any Light,” and went on a North American tour. And when the tickets went on sale, you can bet I was ready to secure mine. 

For this show, I visited The Regent Theater in downtown Los Angeles. This was my first time at this venue, and it was very similar to the ones I have been to, specifically the Vermont Hollywood venue when I saw Current Joys (Article here). The interior was pleasant, but the most eye-catching thing was the stage. The main appeal of it was how there was an arch of lights that immediately drew your eyes to it. There is one complaint I do have, though; it is more of a personal gripe. The floors sloped just a bit because it was once a movie theater to which the aisles would descend. So, come with a back brace if you have a not-so-good back, as I do. 

Fog Lake taken by Atikis Curiel

The opener for this show was a solo act named “Fog Lake.” I had never heard of him until this concert, and I am glad they chose him as their opener because it was a phenomenal set. It was a melancholic joy; that is how I would put it. The man himself, Aaron, was a very down-to-earth and kind person. He covered “That’s How I Got to Memphis” by Tom T. Hall during his set. Suppose the song wasn’t already sad enough. Aaron and his woozy voice mixed with his slow acoustic guitar could make any man shed a tear. All in all, he was one of the best openers I’ve seen so far. 

Guitarist of Loving. Taken by Atikis Curiel

After Fog Lake finished his set, it was only about 15-20 minutes until Loving came onto the stage. Like I’ve said before, literally, the Canadian Beatles. From start to finish, it was a fantastic show. They played new songs, fan favorites, and some I was not expecting. Getting to hear “Only She Knows” live was a whimsical experience. The way the song starts with a dreamy piano and then goes into that Indie-folk sound. I also loved seeing my favorite song from them, “Bowlly Goes Dancing Drunk Into The Future,” performed. It is a very interesting name, but it is a good song.  

Seeing Loving live was spectacular. It was not a loud concert, no mosh pits or jumping around, just listening to fantastic music and vibing with fellow concertgoers. That is what you are in for when you see them live. So, if ear-ringing music isn’t your thing, being in a moving crowd isn’t either. Then, the euphonous sound of Loving is just for you. 

Loving, taken by Atikis Curiel

Overall Rating: A-Tier Show!