G Flip Sets the House on Fire on ‘The Dream Ride’ in Columbus
By Lindsay Brunson
It’s Sunday night in Columbus Ohio. Outside Newport Music Hall, the steady chaos of OSU and High Street is rushing by. But inside the historic venue, a different energy hangs in the air. The crowd is buzzing. Groups of friends are chattering excitedly, couples stand with their arms wrapped around each other waiting expectantly. As the lights dim a hush comes over the crowd. A countdown begins on the bass drums and the crowd’s simmering excitement boils over into a chorus of cheers. The band takes the stage and then we hear it; the iconic intro of “Disco Cowgirl”. As G Flip takes the stage, the house comes alive; their stunning vocals supercharging the crowd.
As “Disco Cowgirl” rolls into “Gay 4 Me” and we watch G work the stage, pride flag in hand, it is not lost on me how vital moments like this are. In the heart of the midwest G has given their fans a safe haven, even if only for one night. We then get a moment fans have long been waiting for...it’s time for the saxophone! The true definition of an artist, G has added another instrument to their arsenal and fans are ecstatic. Their sax solo during “I Don’t Wanna Regret” seems to electrify the air.
One of the many things fans appreciate about G’s music is their mastery of multiple instruments and nowhere is this better displayed than during the heart pounding drum portion of the show. The crowd is enthralled as G Flip, Benji Ellingworth, and Michael Belsar play off of each other; bouncing to the back of the house for more cowbell from Sophie Giuliani. The talent is unreal and the crowd can’t get enough!
The setlist is a mix of new hits from their album Dream Ride as well as beloved classics from their 2023 album Drummer and 2020 album About Us. We get a little bit of everything. From an acoustic rendition of “7 Days”, one of my personal favorites, to a big theatrical performance of “Big Ol’ Hammer”, to a dazzling rendition of “Bed on Fire”.
‘The Dream Ride’ tour truly lives up to its name, taking fans on an incredible head spinning, heart stopping, unforgettable ride.
