Why Harrison Gordon is the band you need to see live

Lyra Townsend, Staff Reporter • Feb 21, 2025

From basement shows to booking sets at Chicago’s Beat Kitchen, Harrison Gordon has put in the work to earn their place in the Midwest indie rock scene. Now, the band is bringing their signature sound back to Bloomington-Normal, headlining The Castle Theatre on Feb. 28—and if you haven’t seen them live yet, you’re seriously missing out.

Harrison Gordon isn’t just a name; it’s a movement in the local music scene. The four-piece band, fronted by namesake Harrison Gordon, has deep roots in Bloomington-Normal. Gordon first gained attention as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for Chuck’s Papas, an Illinois State University-based band that built a strong following playing house shows and local venues like the Coffeehouse and Meltdown Creative Works.

When that project dissolved, Gordon kept pushing forward, turning a solo act into a full-fledged band with an even bigger sound and bolder vision.

That perseverance has paid off as Harrison Gordon, the band, has evolved from DIY sets to commanding stages across the Midwest, blending elements of Midwest emo, indie rock, punk and alternative into something fresh, urgent and entirely their own.

If you’ve been craving music that makes you feel something—whether that’s nostalgia, catharsis or the thrill of an electrifying live performance—this is the band to see.

The Concert Experience You Can’t Afford to Miss

Harrison Gordon shows are more than just live music; they’re an experience. The band doesn’t just play their songs—they create a shared moment with the audience, where every lyric feels personal and every chord hits like an anthem. Whether they’re playing an intimate coffeehouse gig or a full-capacity venue, their ability to connect with a crowd is what sets them apart.

And their upcoming homecoming show at The Castle Theatre? It’s shaping up to be one of their biggest yet. Sharing the stage with Heart to Gold and Kangaroo Court, this Feb. 28 lineup promises an explosive mix of raw energy, emotionally charged lyricism and the kind of live performance that turns casual listeners into lifelong fans.

If you love high-energy indie rock with a heartbeat, this is your show.

Skip it, and you’ll be kicking yourself when everyone else is talking about it the next day.

Get your ticket, show up and experience Harrison Gordon in their element—you won’t regret it.

WHO: Harrison Gordon, Heart to Gold, Kangaroo Court

WHERE: The Castle Theatre, 209 E. Washington St., Bloomington, IL

WHEN: Feb. 28 – doors open at 6 p.m., music at 7:30

TICKETS: All ages, $25 – Online here

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About the Contributor

Lyra Townsend, Staff Reporter

Lyra Townsend is a junior at NCHS and this is her second year working with the Inkspot. She is a staff reporter. My favorite movie is “Jaws.” On the weekends I like to fly planes. A book that impacted me was "Call Me By Your Name"