PHOTOS: Chastity Belt @ Satellite Bar – Houston

Embracing their inner-Texan, Chastity Belt performed in cowboy hats at Satellite Bar in Houston, which they took from their openers Nanami Ozone and Hugh F. They hadn’t asked permission, however. They threw the hats on, and later thanked their tourmates mid-set for the borrowed attire.

Chastity Belt performing at Satellite Bar Houston 2-20-20

Lead singer and guitarist Julia Shapiro said, “this is our first show in Houston,” which is hard to believe. The band, hailing from Washington, has released four albums since 2013; and with such a catalogue of work, it’s surprising that their tours have not brought them here yet. Last year, they released a self-titled album, Chastity Belt: a clean, 10-song embodiment of their evolution and maturity as a band. They started the night with “It Takes Time,” “Elena,” and a new single called “The Process.” The lyrics fall well within their knack for putting self-awareness into song: “telling lies to your therapist, it’s fine.” “The Process” was released alongside “Lonely” from Australian band, Loose Tooth, last month.

The four-piece band of Chastity Belt plays with ease and cohesion. They often smile amongst one another as if there is an inside joke we haven’t been clued in on. Halfway through, drummer Gretchen Grimm traded places with Shapiro for “Stuck” and “Apart.” Not only did they switch instruments and duties, but also hats. A wide-brimmed cowboy hat for a beanie.

Though attentive, the crowd was never as vocal as they were during “Different Now.” People howled across the room during the satisfyingly-long musical intro. By far, the song is the band’s most popular and with good reason. The guitar melody feels like a weighted blanket. The lyrics remind us that it is ok not to have it figured out, yet. They ended their set with another fan-favorite, “Seattle Party.” ~ Alexandra Howard

All photos by Alexandra Howard. Check out photos from the show below: