The Backseat Lovers at Newport Music Hall
Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH | September 15th, 2025
Written and Photographed by Malana Kramer
The Backseat Lovers had a phenomenal performance at the Newport Music Hall in Columbus, Ohio, this Sunday. Their opening stage presence was full of energy and enthusiasm, and it did not stop there. In addition to playing their classics like “Kilby Girl” and “Maple Syrup”, which had everyone going crazy, they surprised the crowd by playing two new unreleased songs. It felt like the words they sang were telling a true story that just happened yesterday. Lead singer Joshua Harmon’s voice was just as haunting and vulnerable as it is in their albums and hearing the songs live took it to another level of intimacy.
The stage set was minimal and simple, but the lighting really set the mood. They used a warm orange hue for some of their set and then switched to a blue for the slower songs. It felt like the spotlight was on the music and sound rather than the background and props on the stage.
All of the band members truly have great chemistry. You could tell they love playing together, and they love their fans. Everyone in the crowd screamed the lyrics, so the whole concert felt powerful, and it was as if the entire room was breathing together. This was an extremely memorable experience. I will always remember the emotions I felt when hearing these songs live for the first time!
There are still a lot chances to catch them live on their fall tour! You can check out the rest of their tour dates here!
