The Music Hall of Williamsburg opened its doors on Wednesday, August 6th, to those of us who enjoy the fine art of moshing while crying. With a surprisingly amiable energy and good-natured talent, NewDad delivered a show that was not only expertly executed but also had the power to make you feel nostalgic even with adrenaline pumping through your veins.
PHOTOS: ANGIE PINO
After the release of their last EP Safe in May 2025, the band announced their North America tour, quickly followed by dates for Asia, Ireland, and the UK. Their setlist spanned their early singles, their debut album, and recent releases; however, the band surprised the crowd with performances of two new, unreleased songs—Heavyweight and Misery. Breaking away from the familiar melancholic ambiance of the show, they revealed a new side of the band—loud, vibrant, and explosive.
Singer Julie Dawson was incredibly warm with the audience—giggling like a child, singing like a rockstar. With a mix of humility and sweetness, she greeted the crowd, joked around, and spoke to a packed room as if she had known them forever. Of course, music has a way of uniting people, so no one was surprised by her kind reception.
Behind the drums, effortlessly talented and never missing a beat, Fiachra Parslow set the pace for their most energetic numbers while adding fullness to the quieter moments. Playful and exhilarating, guitarist Sean O’Dowd matched the vocalist’s energy in every song, mastering his instrument with ease. From the audience’s perspective, their chemistry was undeniable—the kind you only see in bands who are not just coworkers, but friends.
Still, if one musician had to be singled out, it would be Marie Freiss on bass. Although not a formal member of the band, her playing tied the performance together—especially considering the nature of NewDad’s music. The way Freiss handled the bass was invigorating, transforming the entire atmosphere of the show.
It was a pleasant surprise to see all the band members hanging around after the performance—chatting with fans, helping at the merch table, and revealing a more human, down-to-earth side to the entertainers.
NewDad’s upcoming album Altar is set for release on September 19th, 2025, featuring their latest singles Roobosh and Pretty. After getting a taste of what’s to come, one thing is certain: you won’t want to miss this record.