The Midnight (w/ Nightly) Get Things Moving at Cain’s Ballroom (Tulsa, OK) [Photos]

’80s synthpop, saxophone solos, high energy, and emotion are four words that I would use to describe a The Midnight concert. This is what Tulsa, Oklahoma got to experience on Sunday night as The Midnight rolled through town with the Nashville-based three-piece band Nightly to play the legendary Cain’s Ballroom. It was a night of high emotion as each band took us on a sonic journey of some of their best songs.

Up first was Nightly, who I can only describe as modern ’80s synthpop with an edge. They definitely have a dream-like quality to their songs, but they are filled with love, joy, and sometimes anger and resentment. They are no duds when performing live, though, as you can tell they definitely gave it their all when they are moving around so much onstage. I also loved seeing the lead singer, Jonathan Capeci, switch between playing keys and then jumping on guitar. I could definitely see these guys blowing up and becoming the next big thing, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled.

Finally, it was time for The Midnight to take the stage. I honestly had no idea of just how big a band they were until I saw them live. In promo pics, there are only two people (Tyler Lyle and Tim McEwan) but live, there are about five people, which makes sense since their music is just so lush with all of the sounds that go into it.

Now, if you haven’t heard of The Midnight, let me break down to you what they sound like. They remind me of music you’d like to listen to while driving down the highway with the windows down or a memory that you can’t place your finger on. They have a silky smoothness that can only be described as ’80s synthpop if ’80s synthpop never died out. Listen to their song “Sunset,” and you’ll see what I mean. Also, if you love the saxophone, then you’d love these guys, as they have a ton of sax solos in their songs. Not too much, though, but just the right amount.

As for what a The Midnight show is like? It’s full of high emotion and a lot of neon moody colours. The music is also very rhythmic and dancey so don’t be surprised if you can’t stop moving. Also, it’s very hard not to sing along to the songs once you know them. Also, the band is insanely fun to see live, and their interactions are infectious. It’s hard not to smile when you see all of the joy they bring to the stage.

Bottom line is if you love ’80s music and dancing, then The Midnight is right up your alley, and even if you don’t like that, then I’d recommend checking them out just for their stage presence and how much fun they have on stage. I know I’ll be at their next show when it gets closer to me, and I hope you will, too, when they get closer to you!

The Midnight (w/ Nightly) @ Cain’s Ballroom (Tulsa, OK) on October 9, 2022

87 photos