Swapmeet's U.S. Tour Sells Out After Australian Hype

Adelaide-based band Swapmeet is currently on a U.S. tour, experiencing a remarkable level of success that mirrors their recent Australian shows. After a period of "hibernation" back home during winter, the band embarked on an Australian tour in September, highlighted by their first headline show in Brisbane, which they described as energetic and fun.

Their U.S. tour, which began in Los Angeles earlier this month and continues through this weekend, has also seen overwhelming attendance. Band members expressed surprise at the consistent high energy and crowd response, noting it felt "surreal" to play to similarly sized audiences as in Australia.

During their travels, Swapmeet members have embraced American culinary offerings. Favorites mentioned include a standout veggie burger in Portland, Oregon, Katz's Deli pastrami sandwich, Chicago's Italian beef and deep-dish pizza, and Portillo's Chicago dogs. This shared enjoyment of food is a notable aspect of their tour experience.

Opening act Baby Wave has been supporting Swapmeet on tour, with their energetic sets complementing Swapmeet's distinctive "quiet-loud" sound. The bands have bonded, with Baby Wave's members gifting Swapmeet bottles of maple syrup from their family farm in Vermont.

Swapmeet's live performance is dynamic, with a game-time decision made about their opening song based on the crowd's energy. They often switch instruments mid-set, a practice that has led to memorable moments, including a close call with a dropped capo during a Sydney performance.

The band is preparing for future endeavors, including a U.K. and European tour followed by a break in Adelaide in January to work on new material. They have approximately 20 song demos ready and plan to dedicate the month to developing these new tracks.