On the warm evening of July 18th, Soundwell was packed with community supporters, family, and friends, all eager to cheer on young musical artists for their final performances as part of the Resonate and Musicology programs at Spy Hop. This show, Heatwave, was the final hurrah and celebration of the album releases from two exceptional music groups: SLC F8 and Bitter Blue. These talented teens who spent an entire year honing their skills, took the stage one last time, and left the audience absolutely electrified.
SLC F8: Resonate's Hip-Hop & Rap Group
SLC F8 kicked off the evening with their album, F8 of the City. With sick beats and powerful lyrics, they energized the crowd with the first beat. From clever rhymes, to references to rad local businesses and nonprofits that support and uplift the hip-hop scene (shoutout to The Beehive and The HERC!) the songs truly speak to the band’s name: they are the fate of Salt Lake. The album explores a range of themes, from the challenges of being an artist and a teen today, the political climate, mental health and social class, to reflections on the past, present, and future. These themes come together perfectly. You gotta listen to the album and experience it for yourself.
The rap group brought an infectious, dynamic energy that the crowd was eager to capture. Hands reached up in unison, connecting with the music, the message, and the group’s presence. Cell phones out, audience members captured photos and videos in hopes of preserving the electric atmosphere from the stage. During one of their final songs, all the members of SLC F8 joined the crowd, creating a powerful moment of community. After all, isn’t that what music is all about?
SLC F8 the future of the city
The youth is rising up and we are carrying the city
Carry the city so much weight on my shoulder blades
Undermined and underpaid so I gotta make my own way to the top
F8 of the City by SLC F8
Listen to SLC F8’s debut album, F8 of the City, out now on your favorite streaming platform!
SLC F8 is a Salt Lake City-based Hip-Hop collective of youth formed through Spy Hop’s Resonate program. SLC F8 members: T. London, LaReya Marie, Mig L, OVR, Saucee, Pain Like Shadows, Hendry, and Aedro. Keep up with the band on instagram at @slc_f8.
“A collection of different minds coming together to create something amazing.”
Bitter Blue: Musicology's Indie Rock Band
Following SLC F8, the indie rock band Bitter Blue took the stage, showcasing their recently released album, Iris. These musicians displayed remarkable versatility, seamlessly switching between instruments and roles throughout their performance. One song, someone might be jamming on guitar, and the next they were on keys, playing drums, singing, or playing bass. This fluidity speaks to their individual artistry and their chemistry as a band. Each member brings their own distinct style to each instrument and role, making each song on the album feel fresh and unique while maintaining a cohesive vibe from the first to the very last song.
The lyrics in Iris, touch on a range of themes, from love and heartbreak to growing up and mental health. Their songs resonated with the audience, drawing them in with every new note, and the crowd jumped and danced to the melodies, singing along where they could. As the show drew to a close, the crowd erupted in cheers and asked for an encore. The band had played their entire discography, and in response, they delivered their final song, “Just Another Day,” once more.
My eyes are running dry,
but there’s no tears.
There’s nothing left to say,
there’s nothing left to fear.
I’m sick of playing games,
but the cards are dealt.
Wonder if i should stay
just another day.
Iris by Bitter Blue
Listen to Bitter Blue’s debut album, Iris, out now on your favorite streaming platform!
Bitter Blue is a Salt Lake City-based indie rock band formed through Spy Hop’s Musicology program. Bitter Blue members: Noelle Mayfield, Remei Smith, Annuuka Payne-Rinne, Invierno Rodriguez, Teegan Olsen, and Olney Crofoot.
Keep up with the band on instagram at @bitterblueband.
A Show to Remember
Heatwave at Soundwell was more than just a music performance; it was a celebration of the hard work, creativity, and collaboration that defines these talented artists. Both SLC F8 and Bitter Blue exemplified the growth and talent nurtured in Spy Hop’s programs. The support from the audience highlighted the importance of community in the local arts.
We are so proud of our students, and are so grateful to everyone who was able to come out to support their journeys. Stay tuned for more events as we continue to uplift and showcase the incredible young artists in our community.
If you’d like to support this work and help keep our programs free, please consider donating today, or by joining our monthly donor CREW!
Photos by Steven Vargo.
