Hippo Campus Captivates First Avenue

Last updated on January 22nd, 2019 at 06:25 am

Promoting their debut LP, Landmark, Minnesota natives Hippo Campus took on their first of two sold-out nights at First Avenue last Saturday and they did not disappoint. Eager fans flocked to First Avenue hours before doors opened, braving the cold weather in hopes of snagging a spot within the first few rows of the floor.

The Happy Children, another up-and-coming local act, warmed up the crowd with their raw, indie-punk tunes.

Hippo Campus appropriately walked out to Lil Yachty’s “Minnesota” before diving in to their first two seamless tracks “Sun Veins” and “Way It Goes.” The happy vibes continued as they played through the rest of Landmark, with heavy audience response to songs “Simple Season” “Boyish” and “Buttercup.” They broke out some of their older favorites for a four-song encore, closing with local anthem “The Halocline,” which chants “this is our home/this is our only way” moving some of the audience to tears.

Hippo Campus have managed to perform with incredible passion and charisma that rival any arena-touring band. Their presence fills up whatever room they’re playing and despite only being in their early 20’s, their refined instrument skills and vocals are absolutely remarkable. There has always been something special about Minnesota musicians and Hippo Campus is quickly becoming part of the new wave of Minnesota artists.