Alternative folk rising stars TopHouse set to conquer Albany at Lark Hall on July 11

Words by Tony Mastrianni

Those attending the show at Lark Hall on July 11th are in for a real treat!  Get ready for an outstanding bluegrass indie folk performance from TopHouse, the Montana-bred band. This band is breaking out and gathering praise from the press and fans alike. On February 14th, the band released their highly anticipated EP, “Practice.” The following evening, they made their Grand Ole Opry two-song debut and received standing ovations not once, but twice – a testament to their ability to fill such a large and storied room in such a limited amount of time.

Featuring pensive lyrics and palpable vocal harmonies, these four have experienced impressive success on their own terms, selling out shows across the country. Outside of their superb musicianship, they are also known for their witty on-stage banter, quirky sense of humor, and overall chemistry. They sometimes perform a rendition of “The Office” theme song, an unexpected surprise that is usually very well-received. In short, their show leaves you feeling refreshed and energized. They are truly the “whole package” – and they are just getting started.

Following the May 2024 release of their EP “Theory,” their latest release, “Practice,” is a six-song collection that brims with the group’s genre-bending blend of rock, folk, pop, and Celtic influences, pensive lyrics, soaring vocal harmonies, and proficient musicianship. The songs on “Practice” offer insightful revelations through relatable narratives on top of TopHouse’s intricate and melodic arrangements. “Meteor” opens with an intimate vocal leading into an infectious chorus with lush strings while addressing the perils of self-destruction. On “Better Than This,” the protagonist ruminates on the standards he once held himself to before making a decision that altered his life trajectory. “Practice” closes with the heartening “Falling,” a song that captures the euphoria of emerging on the other side and finding love again.

“Practice” features contrasting subject matter to “Theory.” While the substance of “Theory” exuded optimism and hope, “Practice” is a more contemplative collection that reflects on challenges and mistakes made while growing and evolving.

Rather than releasing a full album, TopHouse chose to create two contrasting EPs – highlighting their thoughtfulness, creativity, and confidence in themselves as a group, as well as their unique ability to build a passionate fanbase from the ground up. Their DIY ethos has earned them over 300,000 Instagram followers, listens across streaming services, and concert attendees who seem to know the words to every song!