Amyl and the Sniffers play epic show at First Avenue

Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers returned to Minneapolis for the second time this year after selling out Fine Line Music Cafe in May. I can’t think of a better place than First Avenue to see this band and it was all it could be and then some. In one hour Amyl and the Sniffers ripped through songs from their incredible 2021 sophomore album Comfort to Me putting the near-capacity crowd into a frenzy from the start.

Led by singer Amy Taylor who stalks the stage like a cougar ready to pounce, Amyl and the Sniffers’ sound and energy was contagious. Drinks flew through the air while the entire floor jumped along with crowd surfers atop. “Freaks to the Front” from Comfort to Me was fast and fun and the single “Guided by Angels” sounded fantastic. As the rhythm section and guitarist drove the music forward, Taylor prowled the stage in circles with a look of vengeance but sang lyrics that were both endearing and charming and it was impossible not to follow her every move.

The night ended with the single “Hertz” and it was rocking and fantastic. When the song was over, Amyl and the Sniffers walked off the stage of First Avenue with smiles and did not return for an encore. The lights then came on and I looked around at everyone covered in sweat and smiles. We each knew we had just witnessed a band that is ready to explode. It was one of the best shows I have seen at First Avenue in years and I hope Amyl and the Sniffers returns to Minneapolis soon. Go see them if you get a chance. Amyl and the Sniffers played an epic show at First Avenue!