On Oct. 28, 2023, Madison-turned-Chicago-based band Slow Pulp played a show at the Masquerade in “Hell,” the smallest of its three venues. They are currently on tour for their latest album release, “Yard.” Notable tracks from the band include “Falling Apart” and “High,” which both made their way onto the setlist.

The band formed in 2015 and contains four members, a group of friends originally from Madison, Wisconsin.

Due to the show being near Halloween, Slow Pulp requested via their Instagram that the attendees should come in costume. When the band members came out on stage, they revealed their Scooby-Doo outfits, with the keys player dressed in a Scooby onesie. The audience was a sea of characters and creatures alike. 

They opened with two songs off the new album: “Slugs” and “Carina Phone 1000.” The latter song brings up conflicting feelings shared by playing phone tag with a friend. The repeated line at the end, “That’s life I guess,” resonates with many people who are beginning their adult phase, whether it be college-aged or beyond.

They also played songs from their first album “Moveys,” including “Track” and “Falling Apart.” One unique song from this project is “Trade It,” with some of the back track echoing Alex G’s instrumentals.

Another standout moment was Emily Massey’s Phoebe Bridgers-esque vocals during “Cramps,” a new release off of “Yard.” Her range and ability to hold notes with only small breaths in between is nothing short of impressive. The lyrics repeat, “But I want everything,” and Massey’s voice added much power to the song. 

One of their singles, “At Home,” was fun to hear live, due to the catchy melody and interesting drum riffs. Massey’s voice echos “Should I try all over again? / To try all over again” in a beautiful tone, calling out to a potential lover about past regrets.

This show was especially interesting because the band had not one but three encore…