Lunar Vacation “Sets the Stage” for a Stellar Night at Crystal Ballroom
Words and photos by Jenny Shackleton
Lunar Vacation kicked off the night at Portland’s Crystal Ballroom on November 9th, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable co-headline show with Manchester Orchestra and Thrice. Hailing from Atlanta, the indie-pop quintet brought an infectious energy to the stage, immediately drawing the crowd’s attention with their breezy yet emotive sound. The lead singer, sporting a shirt that featured just the word “OREGON” in bold green, seemed to wear the city’s spirit with pride, and the audience responded in kind, with cheers greeting every new song. Their set, though brief, was packed with highlights, as they delivered fan favorites from their recently released album Everything Matters, Everything’s Fire — a record that dropped just last month and has already captivated listeners with its dreamy, nostalgic vibe.
The band played a mix of tracks from their new album, including the vibrant opener “Set the Stage,” which immediately established their signature sound—catchy melodies layered with lush instrumentation. Lunar Vacation’s ability to blend lighthearted pop with introspective indie rock made their performance a seamless fit for the night, perfectly complementing the darker tones of Thrice and the anthemic rock of Manchester Orchestra. Despite being the opening act, the band held their own, creating an undeniable buzz that lingered throughout the night.
As they wrapped up their set, the energy in the room was palpable, with the audience already in full swing, eager for the main acts to take the stage. Lunar Vacation proved to be the perfect opener, not just with their tight performance, but with their undeniable charisma and ability to connect with the crowd. Their blend of indie charm and emotionally resonant music made it clear that they belonged in the same league as the headliners, and as they walked offstage, the cheers and applause were a testament to the impression they made in Portland that night.
Jenny Shackleton (she/her) is a photographer based in Portland, OR, originally hailing from Philadelphia, PA. Her love for live music started over 15 years ago after seeing the Jonas Brothers perform on their Burning Up tour in 2008 and the rest is history. As a naturally shy person, it’s surprising she feels so comfortable at concerts with hundreds of people attending, but has always believed that they are special, somewhat liminal, spaces. Everyone is there for the same reason: to have the best night and see artists pour their souls’ onto the stage. That is what Jenny likes to capture in her photos. Jenny enjoys spending time outside with her partner and their dog, watching movies, and owning way too many sneakers.