I Just Read About That…

[DID NOT ATTEND: August 21, 2026] Kiwi Jr. / 2nd Grade / Log Flume

Three years ago I could have seen almost this exact same show at the exact same place.  Kiwi Jr and 2nd Grade both played Johnny Brenda’s.  Kate David opened then and Log Flume opened tonight.  I went to see Sunset Rubtown instead (which I enjoyed).   Kiwi Jr. has been getting more attention this time around and even played a Free at Noon earlier today.  I wish I’d gone, but i didn’t feel up to the midday trek to Philly.

I knew I wouldn’t be going to this show mostly because I was sort of saving the night in case I scored a ticket to see Rush.  Which I didn’t.  And really, I was pretty happy to stay home.  Our daughter was leaving for college soon and I wanted to have a few extra nights with her.

But I do hope this lineup comes back again. Sorry Kiwi Jr.

2nd Grade are an indie band from Philly.  They are a gentle boppy indie pop band.  Super catchy and poppy with delightful harmonies and a childlike quality (as befits their name).  Most of the songs are around two minutes.

This is still true with their newish 2024 album–the longest song is 2:39.  But the songs are not hardcore blasts.  They are actually pretty complicates with multiple parts. They just do what they intend to do and then end.

I’m guessing it’s the project of Peter Gill, but there’s lots of helpers.

Peter Gill: vocals, guitar, bass, drums
Catherine Dwyer: vocals, guitar (6, 11, 16, 18, 23)
Jon Samuels: guitar (1, 3, 11, 15, 17)
David Settle: bass (2, 13)
Francis Lyons: drums (2, 13)
Buzz Lombardi: Schuylkill notes (9), vocals & keyboard (14)
Heeyoon Won: Schuylkill notes (9), vocals (14)
Lucas Knapp: radio (1)
Michael Cormier-O’Leary: tambourine (8)

Log Flume are also from Philly.  They also write short poppy songs, although their songs are more fast and rocking.  On their new album, the longest song is 2:44. They’re like more danceable version of 2nd Grade.  I hope these guys open for someone I know soon.

Brendan Armani – Guitar/Vocals/Percussion/Bass
Gabe Sagherian – Drums/Percussion/Vocals/Guitar/Bass/Mellotron/Piano
Scronky – Bass/Vocals/Percussion
Nich Farrell – Guitar/Vocals/Mellotron

This would have been a really fun night.  And look how fun that poster is!