LURCH Celebrate Their Self-Titled Debut Album with a Packed Release Show at Arena Wien
Lurch, Das Freie Energie Band, Portia
“LURCH” Album release show presented by Roadtrip To Outta Space and LÆSSIG booking at Arena Wien – Kleine Halle, Austria 20250404
On March 4th, the Viennese band LURCH hosted their long-awaited album release party in the Kleine Halle of Arena Wien—and what a night it was. With a packed room, three strong live acts, and a buzzing atmosphere, it became clear: this band doesn’t just make records—they build moments.
The four-piece group—Pauline (guitar, vocals), Miriam (guitar), Eva (drums), and Marie (bass)—has already made a name for themselves in Austria’s live circuit. Some might know them from performances at Echoes of Erebos Festival 2023 in META-Stadt, from “Roadtrip To Outta Space” or the „Bierwoche“ (both Arena Wien). Their music, often inspired by the hard, heavy, and raw energy of the 60s and 70s, refuses to be boxed into one genre. Psychedelic grooves, heavy riffs, and pounding rhythms blend into a sound that’s always hard, heavy, and unapologetically in your face. It’s loud, it’s messy in the best way, and it’s clearly made to be experienced live. And live, they truly shine.
The night opened with Portia, a fascinating trio composed of sitar, bass, and drums. They leaned into an eerie, atmospheric sound—taking their time to set the tone. At one point, the band casually mentioned, “This one goes out to Thomas Brezina!” A curious dedication—until a few bars later, when the familiar melody of Tom Turbo emerged from the sitar. It was subtle, surprising, and strangely beautiful.
Up next was Das Freie Energie Band, a German-speaking act blending guitar, drums, vocals, electronics—and even a theremin. Their sound shifted between psychedelic parts, punk elements, and an energetic party vibe, setting a strong tone and keeping spirits high before the main act. With charm and chemistry, both supporting bands proved to be a great fit for the night, and a solid recommendation for future live shows.
Then came LURCH.
From the first note, it was clear: this band lives for the stage. Their chemistry, presence, and joy in playing together filled the hall. The audience was fully engaged—and was rewarded with a fun surprise early in the set: a cheeky Super Mario bassline in the third song that got a fair amount of chuckles in the audience.
During their performance, LURCH were joined by three guest musicians: Roxy on violin, performing live with the band after having already recorded a hang session with them in summer; Rebecca (vocals) from Rolltreppe, who delivered a punk-infused scream—“Was sagt die Stadtregierung? Die können hier nicht bleiben, die müssen hier weg!”—cutting through with raw force; and Lisa, who joined guitarist Miriam for a quieter song on concert guitar, while bassist Marie switched to upright bass for the track. The result was an intimate and beautiful contrast to the heavier moments of the set.
Mid-set, the band paused for a short stage rearrangement. During this break, bassist Marie took the mic and addressed the audience with a few clear words about the importance of cultural spaces like Arena Wien and the nearby St. Marx area. She spoke about recent political developments and the city’s plans for a new “Eventhalle” by Wien Holding and German corporation CTS Eventim. Her message—that Vienna doesn’t need another corporate venue, but should protect the open space for subculture—rang through the hall.
After the reset, LURCH continued with full energy and played their final songs to a room that didn’t want the night to end. The audience clapped, cheered, and called for an encore. Though the band didn’t return to the stage, many fans followed them to the well-visited merch stand, chatting and picking up records and shirts.
The night didn’t end there. In true Arena tradition, the crowd flowed next door to the Beisl, where DJ Cookiequeen kept the good mood alive with a well-paced afterparty set.
All in all, LURCH’s release show was a huge success. Their debut album—with six brand new tracks and the single Cascade (one of two songs with vocals)—is a strong statement. But as powerful as the record is (and we highly recommend it), LURCH live is even better. With a national tour and summer festivals ahead, it’s clear this band is just getting started.
Upcoming show: 17.5. Stadtfest Scheibbs / @proberaumscheibbs