Distracted

BY: ALLIE RUSSELL

Last night at Beat Kitchen, Ace Monroe delivered a performance that can only be described as electrifying. The Nashville-based five-piece band brought massive energy from start to finish, leaving the Chicago crowd buzzing.

The band opened their set with infectious enthusiasm, quickly setting the tone for the evening. By the time they launched into “The Hangman” as their second song, they had the audience fully captivated. They also treated fans to a brand-new track, “Inside Out,” a polished, high-energy number that hints at exciting things to come for the band. A standout moment of the night came from drummer Jonathan Tatooles with a drum solo, during which the rest of the band left the stage, spotlighting the incredible talent of the Chicago native who was clearly enjoying a hometown hero’s welcome. 

Ace Monroe’s setlist flowed seamlessly, maintaining momentum while offering variety. Lead singer Robbie Dylan’s fantastic vocals were a consistent highlight, with his charisma and stage presence elevating each song. The band played like a well-oiled machine, their tight timing and synergy creating an almost effortless connection between them and the audience. It’s no exaggeration to say that their live performance rivals the best of modern rock while channeling the spirit of classic rock legends. This connection was palpable, especially as the crowd ranged from younger fans discovering the band’s music to older attendees reliving their rock-and-roll glory days. 

A hallmark of Ace Monroe’s performance was their generosity with the audience. They fed off the crowd’s energy, giving it back tenfold, and repeatedly expressed their gratitude for everyone’s support. After the show, the entire band took time to mingle with fans, showing the same warmth and enthusiasm offstage as they did on. Lead singer Robbie Dylan even asked me what I thought of the performance, playfully referencing my red hair in relation to the lyrics of their song “Bad News”. It was a small, lighthearted moment that perfectly captured their approachable and playful nature. Ace Monroe’s ability to make every fan feel seen and appreciated, both during the set and after, is a testament to the authenticity and kindness that sets them apart. 

In the end, Ace Monroe left no doubt: they are modern rock stars. Their combination of pure talent, impeccable showmanship, and genuine connection with their fans makes them a must-see act. If their present performance is any indication, the future of rock is in good hands.