As the year draws to a close, so does the concert season. Chicago-based rock band Ax and the Hatchetmen delivered an unforgettable performance at the Marquis Theater in Denver, marking one of their final shows before the new year. I had the pleasure of ending the year with their show, a perfect crescendo to a year of incredible live music—raw, energetic, and unforgettable. The six piece band is led by the vocals and guitar of Axel Ellis, and also showcases Sal Defilippis on guitar, Hunter Olshefke on bass, Nick Deputy on drums, Phil Pistone on trumpet and Quinn Dolan on saxophone. 

The band took the stage starting off with their song “Flagstaff” which was released earlier on in 2024. The song is a very vibrant and soulful track that blends rock and funk elements with a touch of brass-driven energy, and was a perfect way to start off the show. The electrifying energy in the room made it clear that the crowd was ready to jump, dance, and lose themselves in the exhilarating sound of the band. 

The band then performed a few unreleased songs, and teased their new project as something to look forward to in the new year. They balanced that out with playing a few older songs that were crowd favorites including “Goofy” and “Utah”. One of the silly moments of the show came when the band introduced their next song, ‘7×9,’ and playfully asked the crowd to solve the math equation in the song title. The crowd seemed a bit disoriented by the request, offering incorrect answers, which appeared to slightly worry lead vocalist Axel. Eventually, the correct answer was given, and the band launched into the upbeat, infectious anthem.

Towards the end of the set, the band covered ‘Everybody Talks’ by Neon Trees and ‘Last Nite’ by The Strokes, both of which the crowd thoroughly enjoyed. It seemed the setlist had something for everyone—fans of the bands, their plus-ones who might not know the music, and in general, people who enjoy a great show. 

Ax and the Hatchetmen’s music radiates a fun and carefree vibe, while showcasing impressive talent for their respective instruments. Their dynamic blend of rock, funk, and alternative influences along with their vibrant horn arrangements, punchy guitar riffs, and soulful vocals, creates a lively and eclectic style that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

During the last few songs of the night, lead vocalist Axel and guitarist Sal really brought the energy with their electrifying performances. Axel made full use of the stage, walking around, throwing himself to the floor, and even standing atop some sound equipment while belting out the lyrics. The band truly felt like a group of friends you’d want to party with—brimming with life, song, and dance, their energy was completely contagious.

Ax and the Hatchetmen are hitting the road again at the end of January, and if you have the chance to catch them live, I highly encourage you to do so! With their groovy riffs and music that exudes pure adventurous energy, their performances are not to be missed. It was an honor to close off a fantastic year filled with incredible shows with Ax and the Hatchetmen’s  performance, carrying me into the new year with a lasting pizazz.