Movements In Concert
Some bands take a few albums to find their footing. Not the California-based Movements, which emerged fully formed on their debut 2016 EP, Outgrown Things, and 2017 debut full-length, Feel Something. Both releases align well with the modern post-hardcore movement, with their rumbling guitar abrasions and vocalist Patrick Miranda's agonized screams. Their soul-searching lyrics, though, touch on depth-filled topics — family, mental health, and finding your place in the world — that resonate deeply.
But although Movements' musical approach certainly reveals them to be fans of kindred sonic spirits Balance & Composure, Pianos Become Teeth, and La Dispute, they're also unafraid to be adventurous. Exhibit A: the acoustic-based, delicate midtempo ballad "Fever Dream," and Miranda's penchant for anguished speak-singing, which puts an exclamation mark on the band's thoughts.
Miranda started Movements after dropping out of college — an aspiring documentary filmmaker, he was studying at art school — and deciding that music was more his calling. Things moved quickly after he demoed several songs and linked up with like-minded collaborators; in fact, Movements released a single, "Protection," via Bandcamp in January 2015 and signed with Fearless Records on the strength of their first-ever live show, a March 2015 gig opening for Have Mercy at Anaheim's Chain Reaction. (In a potentially career-changing twist, the band initially missed seeing an email from Fearless' A&R rep.)
The release of Feel Something has only cemented Movements' live skills. Miranda in particular is a mesmerizing frontman who stands at the mic and throws his heart and soul into singing, his gravelly voice exuding emotion. Thanks to this approach, the band has toured Southeast Asia, criss-crossed the U.S., and been on the Vans Warped Tour. Going forward, the musicians are committed to maintaining this hefty touring schedule. Movements nabbed a spot opening for Mayday Parade and the Wonder Years in the U.K., as well as appearances at 2019 festivals Welcome to Rockville, Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival, and the Epicenter Festival.
