Mere hours before the release of their debut album Restless, Palmyra electrified Pittsburgh’s Crafthouse Stage & Grill, launching their much-anticipated tour with unrelenting energy. Originating from Virginia’s Appalachian region, the queer folk-rock trio of Sasha Landon, Teddy Chipouras, and Mānoa Bell has garnered acclaim for their harmonious fusion of traditional Americana and modern sensibilities. Their inaugural full-length album, which released TODAY March 28, showcases their distinctive blend of folk string arrangements, lush harmonies, and sincere songwriting. Fans assembled in eager anticipation, ready to experience the melodies that earned Palmyra recognition as one of NPR’s “Best New Artists of 2024.”

Opening the evening was Max Alan, a singer-songwriter from a coal-mining town in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Drawing inspiration from folk and country legends, his guitar-driven Americana and alt-country style was steeped in authenticity. His songwriting weaves personal tales of heartbreak and nostalgia into songs that feel almost nostalgic. Armed with a mix of original songs and beloved covers, Max Alan’s timeless voice filled Crafthouse and brought the music to life. His earnest connection to the Appalachian spirit resonated deeply, providing an intimate and emotional prelude to Palmyra’s set.

As the lights dimmed and the first chords echoed through the venue, Palmyra emerged with a vibrant presence that instantly captivated the audience. This marked their first ticketed show in Pittsburgh, a milestone they acknowledged with heartfelt gratitude. Right from the start, the trio’s chemistry was undeniable, their intricate harmonies soaring above dynamic instrumentation. Sasha Landon’s soothing yet powerful vocals cut through the air and perfectly paired with the poignant lyrics. Teddy Chipouras brought crispy riffs, both on guitar and the Appalachian staple banjo. Mānoa Bell had the largest stage presence, giving a swagger to the night with his stunning custom suit and rarely stationary upright bass. The addition of an equally-spirited touring drummer injected driving rhythms and pulsating energy, elevating each track to exhilarating heights. Their powers combined, Palmyra felt more like a singular unit than individuals, yet still made sure everyone’s personalities and talents shone bright.

Palmyra’s setlist was a thoughtful blend of familiar tunes among nearly all of the then-unreleased tracks from Restless, offering fans a sneak peek into their ever-evolving artistry. The Pittsburgh fans soaked up the opportunity to experience the new tracks live before anyone else. Many of the tracks tackle heavy topics like dysphoria, identity, and suicide, all things that are unfortunately incredibly relatable both in the queer community and beyond, now more than ever. But it’s important, and almost cathartic, to bring attention to these topics. It helps that all of the new tracks are incredibly catchy, with choruses that stick around long after they’ve ended. The new album is heavier and louder than Palmyra’s previous work, while still including a few slower, heartfelt ballads, and plenty of banjo! The band’s loud bass and vibrant outfits added to the sensory experience of the night, creating an immersive show that was both sonically and visually stimulating.

The group took time between songs to share little stories and memories. From dedicating a song to their freshly-rented tour van, to reminiscing about the last time they played in a bowling alley (it was in Cleveland and not nearly as cool as Crafthouse – a big win for the Burgh!), these small personal touches truly endeared them further to the crowd, highlighting their down-to-earth demeanor. Another standout moment was the call-and-response during “Dishes,” a new track on Restless, where the reassuring exchange of “It’s fine?” “It’s fine.” between the band and audience fostered the warm communal atmosphere. Palmyra’s appreciation for everyone’s support was evident, especially as they acknowledged local radio station 91.3 WYEP as one of the first outside of Virginia to play their music.

As the evening drew to a close, Palmyra expressed heartfelt thanks to their fans, with a simple yet sincere, “Love y’all, thanks for being here.” This genuine connection between the artists and their fans underscored the night’s success. The show not only celebrated the launch of their Restless tour and debut album but also solidified Palmyra’s place in the hearts of Pittsburgh’s music enthusiasts. As attendees departed into the night, the echoes of harmonious melodies and shared moments lingered, a testament to the band’s flourishing legacy.

March 27th, 2025