This past weekend, STS9 delivered a dynamic live performance at Irving Plaza, drawing a packed crowd for an immersive night of sound and visuals. Attendees filled the floor wall-to-wall as anticipation built ahead of the band’s set.
Covered by Frank 151, the event showcased the group’s signature fusion of electronic production and live instrumentation. Layered synths, intricate percussion, driving basslines, and fluid guitar work unfolded against a visually striking light show, reinforcing the band’s reputation for crafting fully immersive concert experiences.
The crowd remained deeply engaged throughout the performance, responding to the band’s improvisation driven approach with palpable energy. Moments of atmospheric build gave way to explosive peaks, highlighting STS9’s ability to seamlessly merge sonic experimentation with rhythmic intensity.
By integrating exploratory compositions with synchronized lighting and stage design, STS9 transformed Irving Plaza into a cohesive audiovisual environment. The performance underscored the band’s longstanding influence within the electronic and jam music landscape balancing technical precision with spontaneous interplay.
Through its on-site coverage, Frank 151 documented the night’s atmosphere, capturing both the intensity of the performance and the communal energy shared between artist and audience.
Catch STS9 on Tour
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Feb 25, 2026 — Roxian Theatre — McKees Rocks, PA
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Feb 26, 2026 — Jefferson Theater — Charlottesville, VA
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Feb 27, 2026 — Cat’s Cradle — Carrboro, NC (Sold Out)
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Feb 28, 2026 — The Eastern — Atlanta, GA (w/ Lotus)
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Apr 11, 2026 — Gather Outdoors — Stratton, VT
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Apr 12, 2026 — Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia — Philadelphia, PA
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Apr 23–24, 2026 — The Joy Theater — New Orleans, LA
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Apr 25, 2026 — ACL Live at The Moody Theater — Austin, TX
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Apr 26, 2026 — 3TEN Austin City Limits Live — Austin, TX
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May 8–9, 2026 — The Refinery Charleston — Charleston, SC
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May 15–17, 2026 — Golden Road Gathering — Placerville, CA
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May 24, 2026 — Summer Camp Music Festival — Chillicothe, IL
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Jul 16–18, 2026 — 4848 Festival — Snowshoe, WV
For tickets, VIP packages, and Bandcamp access, visit STS9’s official channels.
With an ethos rooted in exploration, STS9 has been a sonic pioneer for two decades. Using electronic and acoustic means, the instrumental five-piece—comprised of Hunter Brown (guitar/programming), Jeffree Lerner (percussion), David Phipps (keyboards), Zach Velmer (drums), and Alana Rocklin (bass) —channels the primordial and celestial, producing a cutting-edge sound that has forged a path for multiple generations of electronic dance music.
STS9’s innate sense of innovation is grounded by the group’s desire to forge universal connections. Seamlessly integrating their exploratory and improvisation-based music with a fully immersive light show, each performance is a transcendent celebration of humanity. With the help of the group’s dedicated fanbase, STS9 has performed countless shows nationwide and consistently sells out venues like the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater, where they have played over 30 times. The group has been honored with induction into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame and earns headlining slots at countless music festivals across the country. The group continues to find ways to build community, consistently spearheading charitable efforts with their own Just Thanks Foundation and founding its own independent record label, 1320 Records.
Having released twelve albums over the last 28 years, STS9’s legacy unfolds into the future with their newest 2025 studio release, Human Dream. These 19 tracks clearly represent the band’s current sound, delving deep into the many facets of music the group is known for. From huge festival bangers, to funk and jazz explorations, intricate drum n bass, and beautiful instrumentals, Human Dream symbolizes the start of sharing music from STS9’s most prolific recording era to date. With more new releases on the horizon, major festival appearances, and a full US tour, STS9 is poised to keep spreading their music and message in 2026 and beyond.
In a live show review set in Washington D.C. last year, JamBase lauded, “STS9 has not only earned their stripes with songs that still hold up today, but they also blend seamlessly with music released 22 years later. A true testament to not only Tribe’s musical longevity, but also their overall prowess as a band.” On their back-to-back Oakland shows, PopMatters added, “STS9 conjure pure mana for the soul with their wizardly sonic alchemy. The livetronica tone scientists continue to play at a very high level.”