Knockdown Center in Queens, NY — October 3, 2024

Toro y Moi (aka Chaz Bear) with Glaive opening, brought his “HOLE ERTH” tour to Queens’ Knockdown Center on October 3rd, and it was like stepping into another dimension. If you’ve never been to the Knockdown Center, it’s a massive, industrial-chic venue with high ceilings and exposed brick—the perfect spot to get weird with art and music. The lights dimmed, and suddenly we were hit with neon visuals, like getting lost in a digital lava lamp. The show wasn’t just Chaz vibing on his synths (though there was plenty of that)—this was a full-on experience.

As always, Toro y Moi’s sound was genre-defying. He threw down everything from funky grooves to psychedelic synths, with indie-rock vibes from his new album. The crowd lost it when he dropped favorites like “Girl Like You” and “So Many Details,” but it was the newer cuts like “Freelance” that really showcased his band’s ability to lean into those funky, jammy moments. And of course, Chaz’s cool, laid-back energy made it all feel effortless, like we’d all stumbled into the chillest, most spaced-out house party imaginable.

Queens brought the energy too—people were dancing, swaying, and getting totally lost in the music. Toro y Moi’s “HOLE ERTH” show wasn’t just a concert—it was an escape from reality, a technicolor trip (without the drugs, probably), and a reminder that live music is still one of the best ways to connect with art. Stepping into Chaz Bear’s brain is a weird and wonderful place to be.

Words & Photography: Hannah Sacca