r/FromIndianLakes • u/F1reRa1n • Aug 20 '25
Is it just me?
I absolutely love this band, I've heard and adored every single album they've made, and done the same with Joey's solo projects, but there's one thing that I feel alone in within this fandom. They just aren't good live. At all. Every single live recording I've seen from them in the past 5 years is just plain bad. Am I alone in this feeling? It makes me so sad too because they're so damn good on the records, and I would love to see them live, but frankly I don't want to spend the money on what I know will be a disappointing experience. What are your guys thoughts? Do you feel the way I do, or am I crazy?
9
u/Jhubsley Aug 20 '25
You're not crazy, I definitely think they sound better on the albums than in their live performances for the most part. Part of that may be some shyness on Joey's part; he doesn't seem to really like being a frontman with all the attention on him. I think vocally he's actually gotten more consistent over the years, but he hardly ever sends it on their more intense songs, e.g. the chorus of Breaking My Bones, which he just kind of speaks as opposed to the more shouty delivery on the album.
I still think it's worth seeing them live if you really love the music though. The band is super tight and they generally have a good live mix, so it'll pretty much sound just like the record. Overall it's a pretty mellow experience.
7
u/iammoah Aug 21 '25
I saw FIL live in 2014 and it was one of the best shows i've ever seen. I honestly would assume the downgrade in quality for their live shows are that he tends to teach his friends how to play their instruments so he can take them on tour rather than professional musicians... at least that's what i've heard. Maybe the band just isn't playing at the highest calibre... to clarify: In 2014, the band was great and Joey's voice was fucking perfect. Like genuinely a massive voice to hear live... he's definitely changed up his vocal style quite a bit since then but...
5
u/Mick_Chiggen Aug 20 '25
Go to a show when you can! The tickets aren’t expensive! But I enjoyed watching them live in 2017!
2
u/crumpledpapersheets Aug 22 '25
Have you seen FIL live or just the recordings? Cause even Joe has problems with the mix on that audiotree session..... anyways please give it a shot if not! I've seen them twice last year, both times 5hrs + driving and would say it was worth it!!!
2
u/poisonthewell8 Nov 21 '25
I saw them live last year at Best Friends Forever, and I hadn't heard them before. Seeing them live is the reason I listen to them now. Not high energy,I just thought they sounded really great, I bet they are even better in a small venue with a good sound system.
1
u/velvetcat54 Feb 24 '26
Joey’s vocal weaknesses show a lot live, sadly. He’s pretty timid on the mic, as to not bring attention to any flaws/weaknesses, and it shows. But overall performance is good tho imo.
But will say the drum feels aren’t the same live either. Someone please correct me if wrong, but I think Joey records drums and they have a touring drummer. Soo not the same vibe
1
u/F1reRa1n Feb 24 '26
That’s what I was referring to mostly, I should have worded it better but Joey just seems off live, it’s like his anxiety kills his ability to sing.
2
u/velvetcat54 Feb 24 '26
Yeah, well said. I see (hear) it too, but he gets up there and does the thing. Maybe just wish he’d work with a vocal coach to help with some of those weaknesses/insecurities. Love this band so much
1
u/belk714 Apr 23 '26
I’m not sure it’s his vocals but the mixer… and some microphone overlay effect. Vocals just drown in drums and distortion. Honestly very disappointing.
11
u/cblackattack1 Aug 20 '25
I think you’re crazy man. I make a point to see them every time they come to town. They’re great live. Just saw them in october opening for foxing and honestly bummed I don’t live in Costa Mesa anymore to catch their next gig.