Evening Elephants Transform the Gothic Theatre With an Electric Performance
Written by Devon Sweetser and Maddie Weizenegger | March 9, 2026
Photography by Isabelle Goodman @ The Independent in San Diego, CA 2.20.26
Before the headliner even had a chance to appear, the Gothic Theatre was already alive with movement, noise, and anticipation. Evening Elephants turned their opening slot into something far bigger than a warm-up set. On February 28, at the Gothic Theatre in Denver, Colorado, Evening Elephants delivered an electric set, bringing an insatiable energy from the moment they stepped on stage. The singer immediately connected with the crowd, engaging with fans across the Gothic’s upper levels and chatting with people throughout the room. The chemistry between the bandmates stood out right away, and throughout the performance their connection with each other and with the audience remained undeniable.
Photography by Isabelle Goodman @ The Independent in San Diego, CA 2.20.26
Several moments highlighted that chemistry. Guitarist Brandon Leslie and vocalist Sam Boggs frequently danced together or leaned into one another during songs, creating playful and memorable interactions on stage. The band encouraged the crowd to sing along even to songs many people may have been hearing for the first time. One particularly heartfelt moment came when Boggs paused between songs to acknowledge an audience member who had recently lost their mother.
Even as an opening act on another artist’s tour, their set felt equally memorable. Watching them perform felt less like a tightly structured show and more like a group of friends jamming together on stage. Whether planned or not, the atmosphere felt spontaneous and welcoming. The band clearly enjoyed themselves, and that energy carried into the crowd.
Photography by Isabelle Goodman @ The Independent in San Diego, CA 2.20.26
Photography by Isabelle Goodman @ The Independent in San Diego, CA 2.20.26
Photography by Isabelle Goodman @ The Independent in San Diego, CA 2.20.26
Boggs’ vocal range was especially impressive throughout the show. He moved effortlessly between high pop melodies and deeper punk-influenced tones, giving each song a different texture. The band’s sound blends indie pop hooks with punk energy in a way that feels both polished and raw.
They closed their set with a newer song that the audience clearly loved. The crowd was diverse — a mix of younger fans and longtime listeners — many singing along to every word. The energy from the stage spilled into the audience, creating an atmosphere where nearly everyone was dancing, singing, and feeding off the band’s momentum.
Movement filled the room throughout the performance. People bounced and swayed with every song, growing more energized as each track began. Boggs even carried a beer around for most of the set, adding to the carefree feeling of the night. By the end, it was clear that Evening Elephants had turned a short opening slot into a memorable moment for the crowd.
It will be exciting to see where this band goes next, and I’m already looking forward to the chance to see them again — perhaps on a tour of their own.