Mildlife long anticipated return to San Diego funks up Music Box
Chicago-based super duo Valebol kicked off the night, and their performance set the perfect tone for the evening. With their distinct melodic groove pop, the duo—featuring vocalist Vivian McConnell and drummer Daniel Villarreal—brought a breezy, yet compelling sound that instantly captivated the early crowd. McConnell’s voice harmonized effortlessly with the band’s smooth, ambient arrangements, creating a dreamy atmosphere that felt both intimate and expansive. Villarreal’s drumming was meticulous and dynamic, seamlessly transitioning between tracks and driving the rhythm in such a way that it kept the crowd hooked from the first beat to the last.
Valebol’s sound was a fantastic fit for this bill—subtle, melodic, and with plemty rhythm to build anticipation for the headliners. It was clear that the crowd were won over quickly by the duo’s lush soundscapes and fluid performance.
By the time Mildlife took the stage, the energy in the Music Box had already started to heat up. San Diego had been eagerly awaiting their return, having last seen them open for King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard in April 2022. This time, the vibe was different—you could feel the anticipation in the air, as fans packed all three levels of the venue, ready to groove to the Australian band’s eclectic fusion of jazz, psychedelic rock, and electronica.From the very first song, Mildlife held the audience in a collective trance. The band—Tomas Shanahan (guitar), Kevin McDowell (keys), Jim Rindfleish (bass), and Adam Halliwell (drums)—were incredibly tight, playing with precision and passion, but looking relaxed and engaged. The crowd responded with unbridled enthusiasm, dancing and moving from start to finish, totally immersed in the music. Mildlife’s signature blend of complex rhythms, flowing guitar riffs, and hypnotic keys created a truly magical atmosphere. It was a fusion of sound that seemed to transcend genre, moving from slow, simmering jams to upbeat, funk-infused psychedelic rock. Highlights of the set included fan favorites like Chorus and The Magnificent Moon into Return to Centaurus, which had the entire crowd singing and grooving along.
After about an hour of high-energy performance, the band left the stage, only to return for a well-earned encore. Their latest single, Musica, was a standout moment—an intricate blend of progressive grooves and psychedelic textures that left the crowd in awe. But the true surprise came in the second song of the encore, which was not on the setlist. The crowd’s energy was so infectious, and their excitement so palpable, that the band couldn’t resist giving the people what they wanted. It was a spontaneous, joyful moment that showcased the perfect symbiosis between band and audience.In the end, this show felt like an experience that lived up to its hype. From the smooth, laid-back vibes of Valebol to the powerful, multidimensional soundscapes of Mildlife, the night was an exploration of sound, energy, and connection. Music Box felt alive with movement, and as the final notes echoed through the venue, everyone was left craving more. Mildlife’s return to San Diego was nothing short of magical, and it’s safe to say that fans are already counting the days until the next time they hit the stage. With their impeccable musical chemistry and their ability to connect with their audience, Mildlife once again proved why they are one of the most exciting acts on the scene right now. Until next time, San Diego can only hope for more of this incredible, genre-blending sound.