Review: Quarters of Change Light Up Austin with Explosive, Emotion-Driven Performance at Scoot Inn
☆ BY SOPHIE GRAGG ☆
Photo By Luke Rogers
QUARTERS OF CHANGE DELIVERED AN UNFORGETTABLE PERFORMANCE at Austin’s Scoot Inn last night, solidifying their place as one of the most exciting rising acts in alternative rock. I last saw the New York-based quartet at last year’s Austin City Limits, where they made they festival debut and what a year it’s been for the band. They brought their infectious energy to the stage, captivating the crowd with a setlist that effortlessly combined a ‘90s alternative rock feel, spacey grooves, and their signature blend of raw emotion. Having already built a strong reputation for their electrifying live shows, the Austin crowd was treated to the kind of experience that’s quickly turning Quarters of Change into a household name in the rock scene.
Frontman Ben Roter’s gritty yet emotive vocals carried through the venue, pulling the audience into the deeply vulnerable storytelling the band is known for. Guitarists Ben Acker and Jasper Harris wove intricate melodies through the soundscape, blending distortion-heavy riffs with moments of atmospheric beauty, while drummer Attila Anrather’s dynamic performance kept the energy high and the crowd on their feet. The balance of aggression and introspection in their songs created a palpable tension, making each track feel like its own emotional rollercoaster.
Tracks from their sophomore album Portraits were the clear highlights of the night. Songs like "Heaven Bound" and "Do or Die" showed the band’s versatility, transitioning seamlessly between moments of delicate introspection and explosive, distorted rock. The crowd's enthusiasm was infectious, with fans shouting along to every lyric and soaking in the band's unpredictable and refreshingly raw sound. The band’s performance of their fan-favorite "T Love" was a standout moment, with the audience erupting as the track’s anthemic chorus filled the venue.
One of the most impressive aspects of the show was Quarters of Change’s ability to connect with the audience. Despite their rising fame, the band still carries an undeniable sense of authenticity, making the performance feel intimate and personal. There’s something special about witnessing a band at this stage of their career—on the cusp of something bigger—while still maintaining that underground, grassroots energy that originally drew fans to them.
Overall, Quarters of Change left Austin fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what's next. Their live show is a testament to their ability to fuse rock influences from past decades with a modern twist, making them a standout in today’s music scene. With their mix of raw emotion, infectious energy, and undeniable talent, it’s clear that Quarters of Change are not just bringing rock music to a new generation—they’re redefining what modern rock can be.
CONNECT WITH QUARTERS OF CHANGE
