MUNA brought their energetic and emotional live show to Columbus, Ohio, for a memorable night at KEMBA Live! The Los Angeles-based indie pop trio — made up of Katie Gavin, Josette Maskin and Naomi McPherson – have built a reputation for creating music that is both deeply personal and upbeat. That combination was on full display throughout the night, as the group turned KEMBA into a space that felt equally like a packed dance floor and an intimate singalong.
Graphic by Paige Firsten (L) / MUNA Gets So Hot Official Tour Poster (R)
Opening the night was Hemlocke Springs, a North Carolina-born singer songwriter and producer. Her music brought a distinctive alternative-pop sound to the evening, combining catchy melodies with unusual production and a quirky, charismatic performance style with songs like “girlfriend,” ”gloria!” and “be the girl!.” Hemlocke Springs has gained attention for her ability to create songs that feel both nostalgic and completely modern, and her set gave the audience an introduction to an artist with a clear individual voice.
From the moment MUNA took the stage, the crowd was completely engaged. Their performance balanced upbeat pop anthems with more vulnerable moments, giving the set a strong emotional range. Songs that sound polished and layered on record took on a new energy in a live setting with hits like “It Gets So Hot,” “Silk Chiffon” and “Eastside Girls.” The Columbus crowd was buzzing throughout the night, singing along to familiar songs and matching the band’s energy. T
here was a noticeable sense of community in the room, particularly during the more emotionally-charged songs. MUNA’s music often explores identity, relationships, heartbreak and self discovery, and seeing so many people connect with those themes together made the concert feel more meaningful than a straightforward pop show.
What ultimately made MUNA’s Columbus performance stand out was the connection between the band and the audience. Their music is designed to make people feel something, whether that means dancing with friends, screaming along to a favorite chorus, or finding comfort in a lyric that feels personal. At KEMBA, all of those reactions were visible. MUNA’s performance demonstrated why the trio has become such an important presence in modern indie pop. Their combination of infectious songs, honest lyrics, and undeniable chemistry translated so well to the stage.
With Hemlocke Springs providing an engaging opening set and MUNA delivering a performance full of energy and heart, the Columbus show was a memorable night for fans and a strong reminder of what makes live music so powerful.
