There’s something about a Turnstile performance that feels like a reckoning—a collision of raw emotion and unbridled energy that leaves you both exhausted and exhilarated. Their recent Coachella set was no exception, but what made this particular show so compelling was the way it encapsulated not just their musical prowess, but the complex human story behind it. Personally, I think this is where Turnstile truly shines: they’re not just a band; they’re a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of art to transcend chaos.
The Performance: A Masterclass in Catharsis
Turnstile’s Coachella set was a masterclass in how to balance intensity with vulnerability. Splitting the setlist between NEVER ENOUGH and GLOW ON, they delivered a performance that was as emotional as it was triumphant. Tracks like ‘HOLIDAY’ and ‘BLACKOUT’ had the crowd in a frenzy, but it was moments like the collaboration with Blood Orange on ‘SEEIN’ STARS’ that showcased their ability to pivot from hardcore to something almost ethereal.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Turnstile manages to maintain their edge while evolving their sound. Hardcore purists might argue they’ve strayed too far, but in my opinion, their willingness to experiment is what’s kept them relevant. It’s not just about the music; it’s about the experience. Watching frontman Brendan Yates take a moment between songs, sipping water with a contemplative look, felt like a rare glimpse into the humanity behind the chaos.
The Shadow Looming Over the Stage
Of course, no discussion of Turnstile’s Coachella performance would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: the attempted murder charges against their former drummer, Brady Ebert. The band’s decision to open with an intro video featuring Yates’ father—the victim of Ebert’s alleged attack—was a bold move. It wasn’t just a statement; it was a reclamation of narrative.
What many people don’t realize is how deeply personal this must have been for the band. Their statement about cutting ties with Ebert in 2022 due to his ‘consistent pattern of harmful behavior’ sheds light on the darker side of the music industry. Bands are often romanticized as tight-knit families, but the reality is far messier. Turnstile’s transparency here is commendable, but it also raises a deeper question: How do we separate the art from the artist when the artist’s actions are so heinous?
The Broader Implications: Art, Trauma, and Redemption
If you take a step back and think about it, Turnstile’s story is a microcosm of the struggles many artists face. The pressure to create, the toll of fame, and the personal demons that often lurk beneath the surface. Their ability to channel these struggles into something beautiful is what sets them apart.
A detail that I find especially interesting is their cover of The Stone Roses’ ‘I Wanna Be Adored’ for triple j’s Like A Version. It’s a song about longing and vulnerability, and Turnstile’s rendition feels like a deliberate choice. What this really suggests is that beneath the hardcore exterior lies a band deeply in touch with their emotions.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Turnstile?
With upcoming performances at Osheaga, Outside Lands, and Shaky Knees, Turnstile shows no signs of slowing down. But the question remains: How will they continue to navigate their success in the shadow of such personal turmoil?
From my perspective, their resilience is their greatest strength. They’ve already proven they can turn pain into art, and I wouldn’t be surprised if their next project is their most introspective yet. What this really suggests is that Turnstile isn’t just a band—they’re a movement.
Final Thoughts
Turnstile’s Coachella set was more than just a performance; it was a statement. It reminded us that music isn’t just about the notes; it’s about the stories we tell and the emotions we share. Personally, I think their ability to rise above adversity is what makes them one of the most compelling bands of our time.
If you’re not already on the Turnstile train, now’s the time to hop on. Because what they’re doing isn’t just music—it’s a revolution.
