Seeing Wallows live was a revelation, especially if, like me, you didn’t realize that the lead singer, Dylan Minnette, is the same guy who played Clay Jensen in 13 Reasons Why. Discovering that the actor who portrayed such a heavy role also fronts a vibrant, indie rock band was a pleasant surprise, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their performance. And there were many more reasons that 13 to enjoy when Wallows performed at the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre on Aug. 31.
Wallows, a band that traces its roots back to childhood friendships, has evolved into one of the most exciting new acts in indie rock. Formed by Dylan Minnette, Braeden Lemasters, and Cole Preston, the band has crafted a sound that blends nostalgic alt-rock with modern pop sensibilities, creating songs that are catchy, heartfelt, and just plain fun.
Their live performance at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre was nothing short of dynamic. They began the show with “Do Not Wait,” performing the first song behind a curtain, backlit to create dramatic silhouettes of the band members. This striking visual effect set a mysterious and intense tone that immediately captivated the audience. As the curtain dropped and the lights came up, the energy surged as the crowd lived the moment they’d all been waiting for.
Later in the night, “Are You Bored Yet?” came as part of the encore, with fans singing along to every word, creating a moment of collective euphoria. The crowd was overwhelmingly young, with a noticeable number of young girls who were louder than any crowd I’ve ever experienced at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. Their enthusiasm was palpable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performance. Every cheer, scream, and sing-along seemed to amplify the band’s presence, making the atmosphere electric.
As they moved through their set, Wallows showcased their versatility, from the upbeat, danceable “Pleaser” to the more introspective “Remember When.” You’d be surprised by just how many hits they’ve had that you probably didn’t realize were Wallows. Each song was delivered with a mix of emotion and polished musicianship, highlighting the band’s growth since their early days. Minnette’s stage presence was magnetic, a blend of the confident actor and the passionate musician, making it easy to see why Wallows has such a devoted fanbase.
The evening’s setlist was as follows:
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Do Not Wait
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Your Apartment
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Anytime, Always
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Scrawny
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Treacherous Doctor
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Quarterback
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Bad Dream
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These Days
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You (Show Me Where My Days Went)
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At the End of the Day
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Just Like a Movie
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A Warning
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Uncomfortable
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She’s an Actress
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Pictures of Girls
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Drunk on Halloween
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OK
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Worlds Apart
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Pleaser
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Calling After Me
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Remember When
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I Don’t Want to Talk
Encore:
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Are You Bored Yet?
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Only Ecstasy
In all, Wallows delivered a show that was both musically tight and emotionally resonant. Whether you’re a fan of their music, their acting, or both, seeing them live is a must—just be ready for a wildly enthusiastic crowd that will make sure you feel every beat, riff, and lyric down to your core.
Benee, the New Zealand pop sensation, opened for Wallows, setting the stage ablaze with her effortlessly cool presence. Emerging onto the music scene with her breakthrough single “Supalonely” alongside Gus Dapperton, Benee quickly became known for her unique blend of indie pop and alternative influences, wrapped in an effortlessly chic package. Her music often features catchy hooks, introspective lyrics, and a playful yet laid-back vibe that perfectly complements her “too cool for school” attitude.
With a history of crafting hits that resonate with a broad audience, Benee’s rise has been both swift and organic. From her early work to her more recent releases, she has maintained a genuine, relatable presence, distinguishing herself with a style that feels both fresh, relatable, and authentic. Her performances are a testament to her natural charisma and effortless cool, making her a standout artist in today’s pop landscape.
All photos by Gabriella Csapo
Wallows
Benee
