Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo, MI — June 18, 2024

Soft-spoken in person but absolutely shredding on stage, the Chicago-based band known as Horsegirl is paving the way for young femme and non-binary artists. Comprised of Nora Cheng (guitar/vocals), Penelope Lowenstein (guitar/vocals), and Gigi Reece (drums), Horsegirl is creating music for lovers of the DIY-scene. While their paths crossed many times during their youth, it wasn’t until 2019 that Cheng, Lowenstein, and Reece bonded over a love of similar artists and realized the connection they had.

Tastemakers like Pitchfork and SXSW have praised the love of music and love of one another that the members of Horsegirl have. They’ve toured across Europe, throughout the U.K. and have graced the stages of many large festival stages before bringing their June 2024 tour to Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with support from local band, The War Between, and touring opener, Cindy. Their setlist touched on a few unreleased tracks, a variety of singles, and paid special attention to their debut album, Versions of Modern Performance, which was released in 2022 after signing with Matador Records.

Horsegirl has been known for their wide range of fans, especially in age. Their classic rock influence, mixed with a cool kid aura, has attracted an audience that truly appreciates music and loves a good performance. Those who showed up in Kalamazoo were buzzing from the moment the trio appeared on stage until they made a stop at the merch table afterwards. A line quickly formed to chat with the band, ask for autographs, and compliment them on how incredible of a show they put on. Horsegirl have made a name for themselves amongst those who love an indie underground band, but it won’t be long until we see them showing up and out as they rise through the ranks.

Words & Photography: Isabel Dowell