EMBLEM3 AT MERCURY LOUNGE IN NEW YORK CITY

Concerts are back, baby, and guess who else is? EMBLEM3! 

You may know them from their X-Factor days in 2012, landing alongside Fifth Harmony in the final four. Or perhaps you recognize them from their hit single “Chloe (You’re the One I Want)”, followed by multiple tours around America. If you haven’t, sit back and pay attention, because after a small hiatus and industry-wide shutdown, EMBLEM3 rocked Mercury Lounge last week, kicking off their “Eyes Wide Open” tour in New York City. 

This first, sold out stop on the tour was jam packed with dedicated fans who stuck around since EMBLEM3 auditioned with their original song, “Sunset Boulevard'“, wowing the X-Factor judges almost a decade ago. The California-based trio picked up right where they left off, bantering with the crowd and chugging white claws tossed on stage. From Keaton’s infectious smile, to Wesley’s charm, and Drew’s cheeky humor, it was truly one big party among what felt like longtime friends. 

The band completely understands their audience, playing a mix of songs old and new. With tunes off their debut album like “Just for One Day”, “Nothing to Lose”,” Spaghetti”, and “One Day”, even I found the words coming back to me. They treated us to new music like the recently released “Eyes Wide Open”, as well as brand new songs “So Proud” and “Rush” emitting the Californian feel good music we all know and love from them.

Whether it be their impressive three-part harmonies or smooth runs, you could feel the energy in the room simply because everyone’s favorite band was back. With a touch of technical difficulties here and there, not unexpected from any show after this 18 month period without live music, EMBLEM3 played a little past their allotted time and finished the night with the house lights on, glowing on the dancing crowd having fun and begging for more to come.