Hometown heroes Diet Lite celebrated the release of their EP Dumb Bird at Cactus Club Saturday night. The band sold out the venue with support from Milwaukee’s Social Cig and Chicago-based The Dead Bolts.
The night kicked off with Social Cig, who knew how to get the crowd hyped. The rowdy audience consisted of dedicated fanatics.
“Everyone’s car start this morning?” Social Cig asked, poking fun at the cold weather. “…When in Wisconsin.”
He continued the set with songs from his impressive catalog, including “Raspberry Blue” from album CHEESEHEAD, which granted a sold-out show in the Colectivo Back Room in August for its release. With interactive cheers, “shoeys” and crowd surfing, Social Cig truly delivered.
“Our friends from Diet Lite just released a stellar EP this afternoon,” said Social Cig. “It’s going to be a beautiful night.”
The Dead Bolts were next to take the stage. During their set, a local celebrity was in the audience. “Mom Number Two” from the viral TikTok to Aly & AJ’s “Potential Breakup Song ” jammed out on an elevated surface. The video garnered 13.2 million likes since it was posted in 2020. Her presence paired with the eclectic rock music was a delight.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, Dumb Bird,” announced Max Niemann of Diet Lite.
The musicians riled a horde of moshers in the audience with out-of-this-world energy. Guitarist Kelson Kuzdas joined the crowd and drummer Evan Marsalli stripped off his shirt in celebration.
The gritty, animated rock ‘n roll band made for a lively night before it came to a close with members jumping on equipment, playing guitar on the floor and of course, more crowd surfing.
Diet Lite’s EP consists of three tracks, “Bidin’ Time,” “Bad Larry” and “Jump To It/Jump Thru It.” Dumb Bird is available now.
