Dylan Marlowe Cures My Mid-Twenties Crisis
Cover Photo By: Jason KalishIt’s been two years since Dylan Marlowe has come to Chicago. Selling out Carol’s Pub in March of 2023, it’s no surprise that this time he is playing larger venue, Joe’s on Weed Street. It was a visual representation of how much Dylan’s fan base has grown over the past two years. Dylan first gained traction opening for Dylan Scott in 2022 and with his hit “Boys Back Home” which has been climbing the charts this past year.
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Tyler Chambers opened the show. He took the crowd by surprise as he was not listed on the tour schedule. I will never be mad about getting more entertainment for the same price. Tyler played an acoustic set including his new song released that day, “Rest of My Raisin’”. My favorite from the set was the unreleased “Whiskey to Warm Me Up.” He also played “The Fence” which Chambers co-wrote and was recorded by Marlowe.
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Brian Fuller came on next and is one to watch. Brian was a perfect pick to open on this tour as he matched Dylan’s energy. I recommend listening to him if you like Josh Ross and Adam Doleac. Brian is a mix of contemporary country and a good ole boy with a Zyn can in his pocket. My personal favorite from his set was “Remembered I Forgot.”
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Dylan had an interesting opening to start the show. The speakers played “Star-Spangled Banner” followed by a prayer that felt right out of Talladega Nights before Marlowe came out to “Heaven’s Sake.” It was interesting but definitely attention-grabbing. I always appreciate an artist trying to do something a little different. He played my favorites off his debut album “Mid-Twenties Crisis” including “Deer on the Wall” and “Hungover in a Deerstand.” Mid-Twenties Crisis has been one of my favorite albums of 2024 and perfectly captures the different emotions of young adults trying to figure out heartbreak, love, and expectations. If you’re a mid-twenties girlie looking for love, just show up to a Dylan Marlowe concert because I have never seen a show with so many men attending by themselves.
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He slowed things down bringing out stools for him and his band to play “All About It,” “Hang It Up,” and “You Did it Too.” “You Did It Too” is one of those songs that comes across better live and I understand now why he keeps it in the set. The stage setup had a mini water tower displayed on the side of the stage as well as excellent lighting. Marlowe did an early 2000’s pop punk medley with his guitarist performing “Mr. Brightside,” “1985,” and “Sugar We’re Going Down Swinging.” You could tell who the Gen Zers were in the audience because they could not sing every word to “1985.”
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Dylan brought out Brian Fuller for the rock song “Emptyhanded.” Marlowe originally recorded this song with Bilmuri. It was fun watching good ole boys play off each other. It was like watching two brothers who could anticipate the others movements. Dylan’s signature move is performing on the bar. He climbed over the railing, hopped some stairs, and walked across one of the several bars in the venue. Dylan looked like he was truly having fun performing with a big grin under his mustache.
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At the end of the show, Dylan pointed out someone holding up a “Dylan Marlowe Sucks” poster. Lo and behold it was fellow artist, Connor Smith. Connor ran his way up through the crowd, hopped the rail, and joined Dylan on stage for “When I Look Back” and “Boys Back Home.” This surprise came just days after Marlowe and Smith announced a co-headlining tour. Dylan and Connor did a post-show meet and greet taking pictures with fans. Dylan is all about his fans. He takes time after every show I’ve seen him at to meet with fans no matter how long it takes. He threw guitar pics, setlists, drumsticks, and anything he could give back to the fans. He is one that I could see over and over and never get bored of. Marlowe is an outstanding entertainer who effortlessly rises above the monotony. Hopefully, next time he won’t take so long to return to Chicago.
For more information on Dylan Marlowe For more information on Brian Fuller – Instagram @brianfullermusicFor more information on Tyler Chambers – Instagram @tyler_chambersmusic