Hotline TNT is in the middle of a U.S. Tour supporting their new record Cartwheel. The band’s second studio LP has been widely regarded as the top sound in rock since its November 2023 release.
Doors for this show were at 7 p.m. but fans were lining up on the sprawling concrete sidewalk alongside a Twin Cities Metro Transit train station by 6 p.m. and it was sold out by 7:30 p.m.
This special show was a homecoming of sorts for Hotline TNT singer and guitarist Will Anderson, who once upon a time lived in Minneapolis. This was one of two DIY-type shows on the band’s ongoing tour. They played at Not Not in Chicago, IL on Friday. These concerts were stripped down and a callback to how the band would have started playing. Show up, pay the suggested entry fee, nobody turned away for lack of funds and dance (in that order).
At Flair Fountains, fans climbed some of the ladders hanging alongside the walls to see one of the loudest bands touring the U.S. Others stood on chairs, leaned up against one of the many paper mâché figures propped on the floor or propelled from the wall. The bathroom was located behind the band. People had to wait in line while drummer Mike Ralston bashed on symbols.
Cartwheel continues taking Hotline TNT to new heights. Writing a loud and noisy record in the middle of the shoegaze revival, plus signing to Jack White’s Third Man Records boosted its release.
Seeing Hotline TNT live gives a sneak peek into the formula that gives the band’s noise its uniquely full sound. Some tracks feature all three of the band’s guitarists playing the same chords. It makes for a heavy tone. There weren’t as many pedals at the band’s feet as imagined.
Hotline TNT will continue their U.S. Tour through April. Even though it’s officially dubbed the “Cartwheel U.S.A. Tour,” there is one Canadian show planned. Tickets can be purchased here.
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