The Mowgli’s

The Novo, Los Angeles, CA

February 10, 2024

Review and Gallery by David Saxum

On a Saturday night at The Novo in Downtown LA, amidst a venue switch due to ongoing construction, The Mowgli’s treated us to a thrilling performance, marking their return after four years. Setting the stage on fire before them was The Blushes, a dynamic trio exuding punk energy, igniting the crowd’s fervor. Despite the venue upheaval, The Novo proved to be a fitting setting for the charged performances of both bands. The stage barely contained The Blushes’ exuberance, from their daring acrobatics to the warm reception of The Mowgli’s original members.

The Blushes, a punk trio, electrified the crowd with their energetic performance. Clad in homemade matching dresses, they epitomized the essence of punk with their lively presence. Their dynamic stage presence, filled with shared moments and genuine camaraderie, showcased their friendship and enjoyment of performing together. Their humor, evident in jokes, synchronized speech, and seamless interaction, had the audience laughing throughout. As they bowed at the end of the show, they left no doubt of their passion for entertaining. In sum, The Blushes not only ignited the crowd but also set the stage for the infectious energy of The Mowgli’s to follow.

The audience eagerly welcomed The Mowgli’s back from their hiatus, passionately singing along to every lyric. The atmosphere pulsed with energy as the crowd swayed and danced to hits like “Say It, Just Say It,” “I’m Good,” and “Love Me Anyway.” It was evident that both bands relished every moment on stage, their performances flowing effortlessly, as if it were second nature.

As the night drew to a close, The Mowgli’s returned for an encore, sharing anecdotes of their journey and how their shared passion for music brought them together like a tight-knit family. Vocalist Katie whimsically expressed her childhood dream of becoming a cartoon, which manifested in the opportunity to create the theme song for a Disney show. Inviting the original members of The Mowgli’s back on stage for the finale, the sense of familial connection permeated the venue, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present.

In essence, it was a profoundly special evening for all involved, transcending the boundaries between fans, performers, and even supporting acts like The Blushes. The atmosphere brimmed with a sense of belonging, transforming strangers into temporary family members united by the power of music.