Oso Oso, First Unitarian Church, Philadelphia, PA 10/9/2026
Being my first time photographing a show at First Unitarian Church, I was excited to experience the venue from a different perspective and capture the unique atmosphere it brings to live music. Known for its intimate setting and distinctive character, the church offered a memorable backdrop for an evening of energetic performances and passionate crowds.
Kicking off the night were Leisure Hour, an emo-rock trio from Muncie, Indiana, followed by Bad Luck, an emo-rock band from New York City. Both openers did an excellent job setting the tone for the evening, drawing the crowd in with their performances and embracing the church’s one-of-a-kind musical environment. Their sets helped build anticipation for the headliner while bringing the audience together through the shared energy of the music.
When it was finally time for Oso Oso to take the stage, the crowd moved in close, filling the space in front of the band. From the opening moments, the room was alive with movement as fans jumped, sang along, and immersed themselves in the music. The band brought an infectious energy to the stage, creating the kind of connection between artist and audience that makes intimate shows so special.
Throughout the set, Oso Oso delivered some of their most beloved songs, including “Where You’ve Been Hiding” and, later in the night, “This Must Be the Exit.” Both tracks sparked enthusiastic singalongs, with fans moving along to every beat and adding to the electric atmosphere in the room. These moments captured what makes live music so exciting: the shared experience of hearing familiar songs in a room full of people who feel just as connected to them.
Overall, it was a fantastic night of music and a memorable first experience photographing at First Unitarian Church. Between the strong opening performances, Oso Oso’s engaging set, and the crowd’s undeniable enthusiasm, the show offered plenty of moments worth capturing. Experiencing the venue through the lens of a camera gave me a new appreciation for its atmosphere and the way it brings artists and fans together.
Shot and Written by Justin Mayer
