While most of the live local music in the Twin Cities is found at various clubs and venues around Minneapolis, the opening of the Palace Theatre in downtown St. Paul would change that. In the heart of downtown, this historic venue (originally opened in November of 1916) was revitalized in 2016. I love the feel of downtown St. Paul, but nothing quite beats the energy of a hometown crowd cheering on their beloved artists. Whether is Tech n9ne in Kansas City, Kendrick in LA, or in this case Doomtree in the Twin Cities, the energy of playing to thousands that know you're every word never gets old. For Doomtree, this event is even bigger as they all have become established in their solo careers and side projects so their complete group sees the stage even less often.

Minneapolis/St Paul remains one of the most underrated metros for Hip Hop and music in general. This was on full display this evening as the show started out with Bruise Violet, a punk rock band named after the classic Babes In Toyland. This band injected a double shot of energy into the crowd. Doomtree would take the stage to their classic, and the first song I'd ever heard by them, Drumsticks. I had almost forgotten to take photos because their stage presence had sucked me in.

Taking a short intermission, Doomtree handed the stage over to a few more local artists in Sophia Eris, Lioness, and Astronautalis. Each of these artists brought something unique to the show, from Sophia Eris' jazz influences set to Lioness, well versed and at times chopper-like style to Astronautalis' “shot from a canon” energy, this intermission was well received. Doomtree wasn't quite ready to come back as only a few members returned for side project Shredders before the entire squad returned.

This was my first experience at the Palace Theatre, but as long as acts like Doomtree continue to bless the stage, it won't be my last. This wasn't just my first time at Palace, but my first time seeing the entire collective live.