Photos by Andy Argyrakis

Anyone who’s followed Mt. Joy since debuting nearly a decade ago probably isn’t all that surprised at its steady ascent, although those who haven’t been paying attention were probably shocked to see the indie/alternative/folk/blues rock band headlining the United Center.

However, after selling out an astounding eight shows both inside and outside The Salt Shed throughout the “Orange Blood” era alone, which resulted in a live album from the trendsetting venue, it was only a matter of time before making the jump to arenas.

The house that Michael Jordan built was indeed crowded for the “Hope We Have Fun” Tour and that’s exactly what happened at the hands of singer/guitarist Matt Quinn, lead guitarist Sam Cooper, keyboard player Jackie Miclau, bassist Michael Byrnes and drummer Sotiris Eliopoulos.

Given the conscious decision to not have an opener meant Mt. Joy had nearly two-and-a-half-hours, split between two sets, to settle in, stretch out and really lean into the jams.

“Highway Queen,” “Orange Blood” and “Groove In Gotham” were assertive ways to start, reaching all the way to the rafters with their freight train-like delivery and communal appeal, prompting many to sing along.

Even so, there were still moments of extreme intimacy, such as “Cardinal,” and a lot later, a mini set at a secondary stage, which tapped back into Mt. Joy’s local club roots at Schubas and The Hideout, as fondly recalled by Quinn. 

There were tons of psychedelic vibes too, both musical and visually thanks to a swirling ring of lights, especially during “Bug Eyes” and “Julia,” combined with Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer,” to close out the front half, followed by a breathless stretch of “Evergreen,” “Sheep,” “Pink Lady” and “Lemon Tree” to heat up the second. 

The highs continued on multiple occasions, ultimately pointing to a “Silver Lining,” accompanied by a playful Benny The Bull cameo, as Mt. Joy officially made its way to the majors while managing to maintain its down to earth demeanor and artistic integrity. 

For additional information on Mt. Joy, visit MtJoyBand.com.

For a list of upcoming Jam Productions concerts, visit JamUSA.com.

Upcoming shows at the United Center include Lady Gaga (Sept. 15, 17 and 18); Lorde (Sept. 19); Kali Uchis (Sept. 22-23); NBA Youngboy (Sept. 24); Keith Urban (Sept. 25); Maná (Sept. 26-27); Ice Cube (Oct. 6); Mumford & Sons (Oct. 8); Laufey (Oct. 10); P1Harmony (Oct. 14); Brandy and Monica (Oct. 18); Adam Sandler (Oct. 20); Tate McRae (Oct. 21); Nate Bargatze (Oct. 23-24); Playboi Carti (Oct. 30); Tame Impala (Nov. 3); Kaytranada and Justice (Nov. 5); Jo Koy (Nov. 7); Druski (Nov. 8); Maroon 5 (Nov. 13); Paul McCartney (Nov. 24-25); Burna Boy (Dec. 1) and 107.5 WGCI Big Jam (Dec. 6). For additional details, visit UnitedCenter.com.

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