Churchill expands congregation at the Ogden

Before the show, an ominous snowstorm was lurking in the near future. However, inside the Ogden Theatre, Denver’s own Churchill was providing customary warmth and delight to a packed room of fans.

The Ogden Theatre was a perfect backdrop for the up and coming band, as the mystical setting matched the band’s merry tunes and loud energy. The theater also provided a cozy setting, keeping the stage and the audience close—each concertgoer was immersed in a whimsical world as the band bounced onto stage.

Though the show was originally scheduled for an earlier date, the band’s tardiness didn’t stand in the way as Churchill pleased the crowd with hits, both new and old.

The show opened with an obvious fan favorite, “Ark In A Flood,” and continued on with one crowd pleaser after another, including “I Still Remember” and “We Used To Be Happy.” Each member of the five-piece band wore a matching smile for the set’s entirety.

Singer/guitarist Tim Bruns and keyboardist Bethany Kelly emanated energy as they danced across the front of the stage, beckoning the audience to return the enthusiasm.

The crowd, containing an innumerable amount of hipsters, seemed in awe of the local band, each entranced by the upbeat melodies and glowing light. The eerie weather outside was a distant memory as they danced and sang along to the entertainment.

Beanies were ditched and cardigans were tied around waists as the packed auditorium became drenched with sweat and partying bodies radiated heat.

Mandolin player Michael Morter was a key part to the set, as his strumming was a constant companion to the buoyant tunes. His skill could have made a delightful show in itself, as his fingers seemed to dance around the neck of the instrument with each changing chord.

Bassist Tyler Rima and drummer Joe Richmond followed right along, creating a rhythmic vibe, impossible not to rock out to. The folky pop tunes not only delighted the audience, but seemed even more fun to perform for the band.

With a new album in the works, Churchill elated committed fans as the band performed several previously unheard songs, the catchiest of which was “War Within.” Though unknown to the crowd, it didn’t stop them from jamming along, showcasing the fans’ true devotion to the band.

The energy was never as high as with the ever popular single “Change,” which is the band’s number one hit. The audience danced in rhythm as Kelly’s soaring vocals rocked the auditorium.

The set finished with a bang as, unexpectedly, Joe King and Ben Wysocki from The Fray joined Churchill on stage. Fans hollered with amusement as King sprayed the contents of a fire extinguisher into the air, concluding the memorable night.