Tony Peachka Says Goodbye

Last updated on July 21st, 2018 at 09:14 am

Fans of Tony Peachka flocked to 7th Street Entry on Wednesday night to say goodbye to one of the greats on the local scene.

The four-piece band has risen to popularity over the last three years as they toured the Minnesota music scene, playing everywhere from block parties to the sacred stage at First Avenue. With one member moving away and the rest on to other projects; they threw one last spitfire party and invited some incredible bands to play with them.

First up was Minneapolis band City Counselor. They treated early audience members to a set that was equal parts political and synth-heavy danceable pop. They created a laid-back and fun opening to a night that we all knew would become thrashy, yet emotional (have ya seen Peachka?!). Members of Tony Peachka stood side-stage through both openers to watch their friends play in their honor.

Next was the Florists. The three-piece band is also native to Minneapolis. They kicked their set into high energy with jagged and sporadic guitars, smooth bass, and member Jo Kellen’s flying hair. Their rock styling was the perfect way to get from City Counselor to Tony Peachka. They finished off their set with a surprise song that would have worked as a great theme song a TP-themed feminist superhero cartoon.

Finally, it was time to say goodbye. All four members of Tony Peachka took the stage and did what they do best; angry, thrashing, cheery pop music. This time they did it complete with bubble guns. They powered through their 12 song setlist with a calmer demeanor than I had seen before but brought extra excitement with them that signaled to me that the best might be to come in their careers.

They played their best, including “NYE,” “Idle Hands,” “Gossip Girl,” and “Dirty Knees” under silver balloons that read RIP TONY. It’s always special to watch a show that you know will be a big moment for them.

The room was filled with supportive friends and fans who had gone to many of their gigs over the years. They sometimes took time to thank them by name. Everyone danced, cheered, and smiled. They finished their Tony Peachka days in style – with a champagne toast an encore.