Moon Taxi Makes Memorable Debut at The Anthem in DC

Moon Taxi made their long-awaited debut at The Anthem in Washington, D.C., on Friday night, opening for Greensky Bluegrass on the final night of a three-show run supporting the progressive bluegrass powerhouse. While they are no strangers to the D.C. music scene—having graced the stage at the 9:30 Club multiple times—the leap to the larger, more expansive Anthem marked an exciting milestone for the Nashville-based indie-alternative rock band.

Fans arrived early and packed the rail for Moon Taxi’s set, a testament to the band’s dedicated following in the area. As the first notes of “The New Black” rang out, the crowd was already engaged, and by the time they launched into “Hometown Heroes,” the energy in the room was undeniable. The size of the audience steadily grew as the set unfolded, with more and more concertgoers filtering in to catch what turned out to be a dynamic and electrifying performance.

The band, featuring original members Trevor Terndrup (vocals, guitar), Tommy Putnam (bass, vocals), Spencer Thomson (guitar, programming), Tyler Ritter (drums), and Wes Bailey (keys, vocals), delivered a polished and high-energy set that showcased their signature blend of indie rock, alternative, and a touch of jam-infused groove. “Lay Low” provided a moment of hypnotic, atmospheric energy before shifting into the playful, dance-inducing rhythms of “Cabaret.”

 

By the time they reached “All Day All Night,” Moon Taxi had firmly won over the crowd, their anthemic choruses and soaring instrumentals reverberating through the venue. The set’s high point came with their rendition of Bob Dylan’s “All Along The Watchtower,” a cover that allowed the band to stretch out musically and showcase their instrumental prowess. The jam-laden performance of the classic song built into an explosive crescendo, with Terndrup’s passionate vocals and an extended solo on the keys by Wes leading the charge.

 

Closing with “Barefoot On The Dancefloor,” Moon Taxi left the audience on a high note, proving that their music could fill a venue as grand as The Anthem. While this may have been their debut at the venue, the performance felt like a homecoming—Moon Taxi has cultivated a loyal following in D.C., and Friday night was a clear indicator that their upward trajectory continues.

As Greensky Bluegrass took the stage, the energy left by Moon Taxi lingered in the air. If this performance was any indication, it won’t be long before the band returns to The Anthem—perhaps next time as headliners.

Setlist: 

• The New Black 
• Hometown Heroes 
• Lay Low
• Cabaret 
• All Day All Night 
• Morocco 
• All Along The Watchtower (Bob Dylan cover)
• Barefoot On The Dancefloor 

Gallery via Stu Kelly Photography