On a recent cold and windy evening at The Monument in Winchester, Virginia, fans buzzed with anticipation. The Band Feel, accompanied by The Retrograde, was set to ignite the stage, and the energy was quite noticeable. As doors opened, the crowd poured into the venue, eager for a night of electrifying rock and roll.
Nestled on the north end of Winchester’s historic walking mall, The Monument has rapidly earned its reputation as one the region’s up and coming music venues. Accommodating up to 450 guests, it offers an intimate setting that bridges the gap between performers and the audience. The venue’s commitment to showcasing a diverse array of artists — from local talents to nationally touring acts — has solidified its status in the mid-Atlantic music scene.
As the lights dimmed, opening act The Retrograde took the stage, immediately capturing the audience’s attention, on March 1. Their sound, a fusion of classic rock riffs with modern melodies, blasted throughout the hall. Each track they performed seemed to build upon the last, creating a crescendo of energy that perfectly primed the crowd for the main event. By the end of their set, it was evident that The Retrograde had garnered new fans, leaving the audience buzzing with excitement.
Taking the stage to thunderous applause, The Band Feel launched into their set with “Find a Love,” immediately showcasing their signature blend of soulful lyrics and powerful instrumentation. The chemistry among the band members was undeniable, each feeding off the other’s energy, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for all in attendance.
Watch the official music video for “Find a Love” by The Band Feel on YouTube:
The evening’s setlist was a testament to The Band Feel’s versatility and depth. Tracks like “Call It What You Will” and “Shoal Creek” had the crowd singing along, while “Libby Hill” introduced a more introspective tone, allowing for a brief, reflective pause amidst the high-energy performances. The inclusion of “Poem 59” and “What of Now” showcased the band’s lyrical prowess, weaving storytelling with intricate melodies. A notable addition to the set was “Brother,” a track that had been performed in previous shows but seemed to take on a new life that night, resonating deeply with the audience.
The evening culminated with “Goodbye Virginia” and “In the Garden,” leaving the crowd in awe and yearning for more.
If you were there, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The Band Feel didn’t just put on a show—they brought it. From the first note to the last encore, the night was full of energy, passion, and some damn good music. This wasn’t a concert you just watched; it was a concert you felt. And that’s what makes a show like this one unforgettable.
If you missed it, trust me, you’ll be kicking yourself for not being there. But don’t make the same mistake next time. The Band Feel’s performance at The Monument was a joyous celebration of rock and roll and you won’t want to miss the next chapter of their journey.
Both The Retrograde and The Band Feel delivered performances that not only honored the genre’s rich history but also pushed its boundaries, introducing fresh sounds and perspectives. As the night drew to a close and fans spilled out onto Winchester’s historic streets, there was a shared sentiment of having witnessed something truly special — a reminder of music’s power to unite, inspire, and invigorate.
Here are some photos of The Band Feel performing at The Monument on March 1, 2025. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Michael Sprouse/OddRocker Photography.
