by Amanda Davis

When I first moved to Gainesville, I had no idea that the local music scene was so thriving. Coming from Orlando, I was used to seeing touring bands at the Beacham or House of Blues, or arena shows at the Amway Center where you have to squint to make out the singer’s face. I moved here for school, and it was by complete accident that I was introduced to the local scene—I happened to get a job at Loosey’s, a bar/restaurant that also serves as a music venue, and it was through working events, meeting musicians, and tagging along to shows with my friends that I discovered my love for Gainesville music. 

There’s something exciting about going to see a band for the first time and having no idea what to expect. Maybe you know the genre, or your friends have raved about them, but you don’t know the songs. You have no idea what the performance will be like. This could be your new favorite band, and you don’t even know it yet. 

One of the first shows I went to (off the clock) after moving to Gainesville was indie rock band Trustfall. I was instantly captivated by the music and their engaging stage presence—they were clearly having fun, and it was infectious. They also make awesome music to boot. 

Since then, I’ve gone to my fair share of shows here, from sets at Fest to crowded hardcore shows at the Roadhouse. Every time, I’m reminded all over again why I love live music—there’s something surreal about coming together with other people to just have fun and enjoy something you all have in common. There’s music and sweat and adrenaline, and if you leave with your ears ringing and bruises from the pit, all the better. Last night was another one of those times that reminded me how lucky I am to live in a town full of insanely talented people. 

Funk Shui started the night off strong—as the name implies, their music is nothing short of funky. You’ll start bobbing your head along to the saxophone, and before you know it, you’re full-on dancing. It was my first time hearing the group live, and they did not disappoint. 

With their single “Banana” released a few months ago and an EP on the way, Trustfall is not slowing down any time soon. They took to the stage last night with what was honestly one of the best sets I’ve seen. The band’s musical talent combined with the passion they put into their performance makes them a blast to watch. I was instantly reminded of that night back when I first moved here and realized there’s some really awesome things happening here in Gainesville.

The Joytraders are another of my favorite local bands, and this group certainly knows how to put on a show. The raw energy of their music is so much fun, and Jade’s vocals take the punk rock instrumentals to the next level. Their album Anything But What I Need To is a fantastic listen. 

Sometimes I miss not having to drive two hours to see a band on tour, but for what Gainesville lacks in bigger concerts, it makes up for with some of the best local shows Florida has to offer. I’m constantly amazed by the people in this town—not only musicians, but the artists, writers, and activists as well. Call me sappy, but I feel incredibly lucky I happened to decide to go back to school here. Gainesville is rich with culture, creativity, and the coolest people I’ve ever met. And besides, where else can you go to see two Less Than Jake sets at one festival?