NO PLACE WE'D RATHER BE THAN WITH WINYAH
MUSIC FARM — CHARLESTON, SC
On Saturday night, South Carolina’s own Winyah brought their expansive 130-stop NO PLACE I’D RATHER BE TOUR tour to a sold-out hometown show at Charleston’s Music Farm. For a band rooted in southern rock yet unafraid to stretch its sound, this was more like a defining moment that proved there was no place we’d rather be.
The evening opened with Charleston-based Colors in Corduroy, whose sun-washed melodies and effortless charm immediately drew the crowd in. Tracks like "Old Souls" and "Golden Sands" filled the room as the audience swayed freely, the energy relaxed but electric. Frontman Grant Matthews blurred the line between stage and floor, stepping into the crowd for a playful game of rock-paper-scissors, a small moment that perfectly captured the band’s approachable spirit.
When the lights dropped and smoke drifted across the stage, anticipation peaked. The group of four emerged to a surge of cheers and praises. Lead vocalist Thomas Rowland gives the crowd a warm welcome before launching straight into favorites including "Lovely Girl", "Lay Me Down", and "XO". Their sound is a refreshing yet rugged blend of southern drawl, a hint of folk charm, and driving rock that resonates deeply, echoing the familiarities of their home state while remaining distinctly their own.
Throughout the set, the band reflected on a breakthrough year marked by the release of their debut album, Lot To Learn, and months spent sharing their sound across the country while showing no signs of stopping. Their gratitude and appreciation for the fans who filled the room for their largest sold-out show to date were evident from beginning to end.
Momentum continued to build as the night unfolded, with standout performances of "Thread", "Feel It All Again", and November’s latest single, "Nothin' At All". All around, the crowd was in a state of euphoria with a sea of phones attempting to capture the final moments. As the group briefly exited the stage, the crowd refused to let the night end, chanting until the band returned for a final, explosive encore of "Good People" as well as teases for the band’s upcoming album. It was an ending that left showgoers elated yet eager for what is to come in the next year.
With a new album slated for 2026 and tour dates already booked through April, with more expected, Winyah has solidified their place as one of the top indie bands to watch in the upcoming year.
