Vacations
From Vacations Instagram
Vacations is an indie rock band known for their dreamy, lo-fi sound and nostalgic vibes. Hailing from Newcastle, Australia, the band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Campbell Burns, bassist Jake Johnson, guitarist Joseph Van Lier, and drummer Nate Delizzotti. Their music blends elements of surf rock, dream pop, and post-punk, creating a distinct and mellow atmosphere that resonates with listeners around the globe.
The band gained significant traction with their debut album, Changes, which features a collection of introspective tracks that explore themes of love, self-discovery, and the passage of time. Their sound has often been described as the perfect soundtrack for a road trip or a lazy summer afternoon, characterized by jangly guitars, smooth bass lines, and Burns' soothing vocals.
The band's music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the passage of time, delivered through lyrics that are both relatable and poetic. Vacations' ability to capture universal emotions in a way that feels deeply personal has endeared them to listeners around the world. Their sound has been described as the perfect accompaniment to moments of solitude, daydreaming, or quiet contemplation, making their music a go-to for anyone seeking a serene and reflective auditory experience.
Eterna Lavender was lucky enough to see them TWICE, back to back in San Antonio, Texas on August 6th and Dallas, Texas on August 7th!
Vacations brought their lo-fi indie rock vibes to San Antonio, captivating a near-sold-out crowd with their warm and ethereal performance. The Aztec Theatre was filled with a diverse audience, showcasing the band’s ability to resonate with people from all walks of life. From young indie enthusiasts to seasoned concert-goers, the crowd was a testament to Vacations' broad appeal.
The night opened with a lively set by Alex Lahey, who not only energized the audience but later joined Vacations on stage as part of their supporting cast. The full band, consisting of a drummer, guitarist, guitarist/vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist, effortlessly created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that enveloped the entire venue. The energy in the room was palpable as the band took the stage, immediately drawing everyone into their unique sonic world.
One of the night’s most memorable moments was when the band launched into "Telephones," a standout track from their 2018 repertoire. The crowd’s reaction was electric, with a booming chorus of voices singing along to every word, confirming its status as one of the band’s most beloved songs.
Photos by Eli Walker at the Aztec Theatre
The tour was primarily focused on promoting their latest album, No Place Like Home, and the setlist reflected this, featuring tracks like "Next Exit," "Slow Motion," the title track "No Place Like Home," "Close Quarters," and "Arizona." Among these, "Next Exit" and "No Place Like Home" seemed to be the crowd favorites, drawing particularly enthusiastic responses.
Vacations managed to create a concert experience that was both intimate and expansive, inviting every person in the crowd to lose themselves in the music. The band’s ability to cater to such a diverse audience while maintaining their signature sound is a testament to their talent and the universal appeal of their music. As the night came to a close, it was clear that Vacations had left a lasting impression on San Antonio, their warm, vibrant presence lingering long after the final note had faded.
Photos by Ramray Wong at House of Blues Dallas
The next night in Dallas, Vacations delivered a mellow yet unforgettable performance at the House of Blues, drawing a crowd that was notably filled with couples enjoying the relaxed ambiance. The atmosphere was serene and intimate until the band played "Honey," a standout fan-favorite that electrified the room. Suddenly, the crowd was on their feet, dancing and completely absorbed in the song’s infectious rhythm, transforming the night into a vibrant celebration.
Adding to the evening’s appeal was the band’s playful and lighthearted sense of humor. They engaged the audience not only with their music but also with witty banter and pop culture references, touching on topics like Fortnite and *Family Guy*. Their jokes, delivered with their distinctive Australian accents, brought an extra layer of charm and made the concert feel both personal and enjoyable. The combination of their engaging performance and endearing personality created a night where Vacations' signature sound and lively presence truly shone, leaving everyone at the House of Blues with smiles and a sense of contentment.
Experiencing Vacations back-to-back in San Antonio and Dallas was a genuine highlight, and Eterna Lavender was thrilled to catch these shows on consecutive nights. The band's remarkable ability to adapt their energy to different audiences while maintaining their charm and delivering exceptional performances perfectly exemplifies why their fan base holds them in such high regard.
