MISSIO Shines at Badflower’s No Place Like Home Tour
Badflower's No Place Like Home Tour at House of Blues Boston on September 15th delivered an evening packed with emotional depth and intense performances. The lineup featured Slothrust, Badflower, and the night’s standout opener, MISSIO.
Kicking things off, MISSIO took the stage with their unique blend of electronic rock, immediately setting a dark, atmospheric tone. The Austin-based duo wasted no time capturing the audience’s attention with their moody soundscapes and introspective lyrics. Opening with “The Higher You Climb,” they drew the crowd into their world of pulsing beats, gritty synths, and haunting vocals. Tracks like “Twisted” and “Middle Fingers” were high points, igniting energy across the room, while songs like “Can You Feel the Sun” showcased their more introspective side. The duo’s ability to shift from anthemic, rebellious tracks to emotionally raw moments created a dynamic set that had the audience hooked from start to finish.
MISSIO’s connection with the crowd was palpable, especially during their performance of “I See You,” a song that resonated deeply with its message of vulnerability and understanding. The duo's stage presence felt larger than life, with frontman Matthew Brue delivering impassioned vocals while David Butler crafted an intricate soundscape that oscillated between harsh and beautiful.
As the opener, MISSIO set a high bar for the night. They brought an immersive, almost cinematic quality to their performance, transforming the venue into a pulsating space where electronic beats met rock intensity. Their live sound felt expansive, filling every corner of the room and leaving the crowd buzzing long after their set ended.
Slothrust followed MISSIO with a grungy, alternative rock set that brought a raw, understated energy to the stage. Lead vocalist Leah Wellbaum delivered cool, detached vocals while showcasing her impressive guitar work. Songs like “Crockpot” and “Planetarium” featured intricate riffs and thoughtful lyrics, drawing the crowd in with their slow-burn intensity. Though their vibe was more subdued, Slothrust’s musicianship stood out, adding a moody texture to the night.
When Badflower took the stage, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Frontman Josh Katz poured raw emotion into every song, with tracks like “Heroin” and “Ghost” hitting especially hard. Katz's vulnerability and openness made the performance feel intimate, even in a large venue. The band balanced their heavier rock anthems like “x ANA x” with quieter, introspective moments, keeping the audience emotionally engaged throughout. Guitarist Joey Morrow, drummer Anthony Sonetti, and bassist Alex Espiritu played with tight precision, delivering a dynamic set that was equal parts cathartic and intense. Badflower’s passionate performance rounded out the night, leaving a lasting impact on the crowd.
