On October 23rd, I had the pleasure of attending the final stop on Crumb’s tour, celebrating their latest album, AMAMA, at the iconic Wiltern Theater in Koreatown. As a fan for over five years and having previously caught them live with Mannequin Pussy in 2022, this opportunity to photograph them was a delight, blending nostalgia with excitement.

Returning to this historic venue felt like a homecoming after working as an usher at The Wiltern. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as I reconnected with old colleagues, fueling my anticipation for the evening ahead.

As fans filled the general admission floor and settled into the loge and mezzanine, Vagabond took the stage to set the tone. Their smooth, tranquil sound enveloped the venue, creating an inviting ambiance that primed the audience for Crumb's headlining performance.

Hailing from New York, Crumb delivered a fascinating set, weaving tracks from their previous albums with selections from AMAMA, their most liberated and heartfelt work. The stage production was a feast for the senses, adorned with vibrant colors reminiscent of a rainbow and dynamic rigs featuring reflective imagery that danced with the lights — a striking echo of The xx's captivating displays from their 2017 shows. For an hour and a half, Crumb put us in a hypnotic trance, leaving both fans and myself spellbound.

Shooting from the limited space of the ADA ramp, positioned 20 feet from the stage and behind the pit, posed a challenge. However, the freedom to roam the floor and balcony allowed me to capture the essence of the performance from various spots around the venue, showcasing my unique perspective to share with you all.

Crumb’s show was a masterclass in musicianship and vocal artistry. If you ever can see them live, please don’t hesitate. This concert undoubtedly ranks among my favorite experiences of the year.

CRUMB

VAGABON