The Funeral Portrait’s electrifying performance at Harrisburg’s HMAC on November 7 was a testament to their meteoric rise in the hard rock scene. As the band continues to ride the wave of success from their latest album Greetings From Suffocate City, this show proved they’re not just a flash in the pan, but a force to be reckoned with.
From the moment front man Lee Jennings took the stage, his fluorescent hair a beacon in the dimly lit venue, it was clear this wasn’t going to be your average rock show. The band’s theatrical approach, complete with carefully designed outfits and a modern take on the classic suit look, set them apart from the typical rock band aesthetic. This visual element, inspired by Jennings’ Southern Baptist upbringing and the theatrical nature of church services, added an extra layer of intrigue to their performance.
One of the night’s standout moments came during the performance of “You’re So Ugly When You Cry.” In a display of fan interaction that’s becoming increasingly rare in the age of carefully choreographed shows, Jennings spotted a fan holding a sign that read, “Let me sing Bert’s part in ‘You’re So Ugly’ with you, Lee!” Without missing a beat, he hopped off the stage and held the microphone out to her, creating an unforgettable moment that epitomized the band’s connection with their “Coffin Crew.”
The setlist showcased all of the fan favorites from their latest album. The performance of “Suffocate City,” their current chart-topping single, was a highlight of the night. While Spencer Charnas wasn’t present to deliver his guest verse, the crowd more than made up for it, screaming every word back at the band. It’s no wonder the song would hit number one on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay Chart the very next day, a testament to the band’s growing popularity and the impact of this tour.
Throughout the show, The Funeral Portrait’s chemistry was palpable. The band’s camaraderie, forged through years of friendship and shared experiences, translated into a tight, energetic performance. This bond was evident in the way they interacted on stage, picking on each other in a playful or even zesty manner that engaged the audience and showcased their genuine connection.
As Jennings reflected in an interview with iROCKRADIO.ME’s Jay Hunter, “We all love each other, we’re all together all the time, and we don’t really fight…we’re just friends, we’re just doing this.” This closeness was apparent in their performance, adding an authenticity that resonated with the crowd.
The band’s recent experience touring with major acts, like Five Finger Death Punch, has clearly influenced their stage presence. Jennings mentioned feeling like they finally belonged on those big stages, and this confidence was evident in their HMAC performance. The lessons learned from playing stadiums and amphitheaters have translated well to more intimate venues, allowing the band to connect with their audience on a deeper level.
As the final notes faded, it was clear that The Funeral Portrait had left an indelible mark on Harrisburg. With their recent chart success and performances like this, they are poised to become one of the leading voices in the next wave of hard rock. The band’s upcoming tour with Catch Your Breath and the release of their reimagined version of “Casanova” to celebrate their 10th anniversary, suggest that The Funeral Portrait is just getting started. If this show was any indication, they’re more than ready for the spotlight and whatever the future holds.
Watch the iROCKRADIO.ME exclusive interview with Lee Jennings below.
The Funeral Portrait Tour
