POD Photos: Boy Harsher - Metro (10/2)

I’ve seen Boy Harsher just about every time they’ve come through Chicago, from the Empty Bottle to the Salt Shed, and now Metro. And yes, I’m going to be that guy: I was listening to them when they were still underground. Naturally, now that they’re signed to a major label, I can no longer support them. Kidding, of course.

Boy Harsher have been one of my favorite bands for years, and every time I’ve seen them, they’ve somehow managed to put on a better show than the last.

Evanora Unlimited kicked off the night with an unpredictable, experimental set, followed by Choir Boy, whose dreamy, melancholic synth-pop offered a nice change of pace before the headliners.

Boy Harsher recently released GET MEAN, their major-label debut on Atlantic Records, and I’ve absolutely loved it. There’s something funny about Jae Matthews and Augustus Muller making some of their brightest, most vibrant music after ending their romantic relationship. The subject matter is still dark, but the music feels more playful and danceable than ever. “Break Me” has been my favorite track from the album, and hearing it live was easily one of my highlights.

Another standout moment was when Jae brought Choir Boy’s frontman back onstage to join her for “Tough Luck (When You Don’t Call).” It was an unexpected collaboration and easily one of my favorite moments of the night.

Their live production has also come a long way. The lighting and stage panels add another visual dimension to the performance, making the entire experience feel more immersive. Jae’s stage presence remains as captivating as ever, shifting effortlessly between infectious, high-energy performances and quieter moments of raw vulnerability.

One of my favorite moments came during the encore, when they performed a clubbier, more dancefloor-oriented version of “Pain.” I’d first heard this version during Augustus Muller’s DJ set on The Lot Radio back in January 2025, so hearing it live gave me an eargasm. It almost felt like a DJ set, and I mean that in the best possible way. Now can they please just release this version already?

From the smaller rooms to the bigger stages, Boy Harsher continues to evolve without losing what made them special in the first place.

Check out my photos from the night below.