It was the halfway point of day 3 at the XPoNential Music Festival, and concert goers were priming to transition from morning relaxation into the party that would be taking place at night. These United States had the honor of easing the crowd into the second half of the day, as they too had a combination of mellow, relaxing music, and upbeat rock ‘n’ roll.

The group started off with “Nobody Can Tell”, a refreshing rock tune with easy, complimenting guitar riffs and smooth drumming. Singer Jesse Elliott released a soft, yet intense voice, very reminiscent of early Caleb Followill (Kings of Leon) music.

When These United States introduced “Just This”, Elliott announced that the song was about water, which was very befitting for a setting with boats and an archaic battleship docked behind the stage. The band went on to play a bunch of songs from their new CD “What Lasts”, which have never been performed live before.

These United States put on an awesome, intimate live show, and are definitely a band to watch in the upcoming years.

James Brownstein- Intern
University of Southern California
Class of 2014

Set List:
1. Nobody Can Tell
2. Dug Him In The Dirt
3. The Business
4. One You Believe
5. The Great Rivers
6. Just This
7. First Sight
8. The Important Thing
9. Life And Death, She And I
10. I Want You To Keep Everything