Public: Your New Favorite Band

Public is a three piece band based out of Cincinnati, Ohio. The band consists of lead singer, John Vaughan, bassist, Matt Alvarado, and drummer, Ben Lapps. The band met in high school, and went on to release their first EP titled Red in June of 2012. Afterwards they opened for acts like Neon Trees, Walk the Moon, Jesse McCartney, and Twenty One Pilots. After the release of their latest EP, Sweet Lemonade, Public went on the Sweet Lemonade tour, which consisted of dates all across the US. In 2018, they released the song “One That I Want” along with a music video.

In early 2019, Public released surprise tour dates with the band, The Driver Era, followed by a their new song, “Honest.” This tour kicked off in Boston, Massachusetts in early March. This tour amassed more fans, and led to some even travelling to multiple states to see the show again.

The last show of tour took place in Carrboro, North Carolina on April 20th. Fans began chanting the Public’s name in the seconds leading up to their set. As soon as the band hit the stage, the room filled with immense energy. The band opened with their song “Pretty Face,” and immediately pumped up the crowd.

This enthusiasm was consistent throughout the show. During the song “On My Mind” everyone in the room was singing along to the catchy chorus. They then performed the song “Toxic” by Britney Spears, which was a major crowd pleaser. To end the set, they performed their song “Make You Mine,” followed by “4her.” During the last chorus of “4her,” Vaughan split the crowd in half and made his way in to jump along with fans. Since it was the last show, the members of The Driver Era surprised them and “iced” them with Smirnoffs.

With memorable bass lines, groovy beats, and insane vocals, Public is one to watch. They did an amazing job at kicking off The Driver Era show, and definitely made it feel like their own while they were on stage. The band’s interactions with the crowd during and after the show made it even more incredible. Overall, Public’s high energy performance proved that they are a force to be reckoned with.

Coverage by Drayton Peterson

Images may not be used, modified, or cropped without permission from Drayton Peterson or SoundBite Magazine. Please contact SoundBite Magazine for use of photography.

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