Characterized by an air of confidence, Bleak Mystique took the stage at Cervantes’ Other Side last Friday. The crowd, with drinks in hand and a hum of conversation between them, greeted the band with cheers of excitement. The band tore into the set, kicking off with their song “So Much Fun.” Bright vocals and tastefully distorted guitar riffs invited the crowd to dance (or headbang) along.

A Denver, and DU, bred band, Bleak Mystique has been playing shows in the area since last summer. A local fan favorite, the turnout at Cervantes’ Other Side was exemplary of the attention that the band is garnering. With each song performed, the crowd crept closer to the stage, entranced by the music and the band’s immersion in their delivery of it.

Bleak Mystique delivered a performance that was rooted in the spirit of the band-loud, exciting and intense. Little time was wasted with banter between songs, allowing the band to deliver a jam-packed set that kept the energy high. A wide range of songs was played, from grunge-inspired anthems to more pop-inspired tracks. Fans sang along to well-known favorites including “Way Out There” as well as enjoyed a performance of the band’s most recent single “First Date With Lucy.” 

The ease with which the band performed was impressive in light of their talented execution. The set was riddled with technical guitar sections as well as more basic yet aggressive riffs. Bassist, Aiden Hutchings added depth to the performance with powerful bass lines accompanied by an unbridled percussive force with Hayden Bosch on drums. 

Lead singer, Sam Shapiro, brought the range of the band’s music to the forefront. Shifting from melodic vocals to sonorous screams, Shapiro demonstrated the band’s ability to pack an array of emotions and styles into their discography. While entering various pitches and employing different vocal techniques, Shapiro maintained a clear sound that was well balanced with the instrumentation.

During the set, Shapiro, Hutchings and Bosch illustrated how the chemistry between members can elevate a show from subpar to exceptional. A simple head nod, smile or hand gesture seemed to communicate something to each band member, and all were receptive to the message. Together, Bleak Mystique played with an ease that made their awe-inspiring performance seem like an effortless task. 

Following their last song, “One I Couldn’t Pin Down,” loyal fans cheered for one more. With a casual head nod of agreement, Shapiro introduced their true final song, which was only written a few weeks ago. An overarching sense of excitement and joy overtook the crowd as friends danced with one another and others took videos, recording their experience of the night. The final note of the song and an expression of the band’s gratitude to the crowd ended the show, yet Bleak Mystique is sure to return to play for their Denver fans once again.

Support Bleak Mystique by listening on Spotify, and stay up to date on their upcoming shows via their Instagram page.