Why’d We Book it: Bermuda Search Party

Welcome to the new segment on the 3S Blog — "Why’d We Book it?" 

We want to bring our 3S community into the know on the events coming up at 3S that have us shouting from the rooftops: “Hello! Friends! Something super FUN is coming to Portsmouth!” 

We know that not all of  the acts we book are widely known. This is partly because it is paramount to our vision as a contemporary arts organization to bring up-and-coming acts to our Performance Space stage for all of you culturally curious folks out there.

We don’t want you to miss out on an event that would have been right up your alley just because you had never heard of an act before. That’s why we’re highlighting some of our upcoming events in this segment — to give you a greater understanding into the kind of night you’re in for when you attend.

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Bermuda Search party on May 17, 2025

Unapologetically energetic, uplifting and with a live show that has been described as a “celebration of life”, Bermuda Search Party (FKA The Q-Tip Bandits) have emerged as a vibrant act that continues to touch audience’s hearts while getting them up on their feet.

Pop vocals, horns, and high energy — listening to Bermuda Search Party feels like a party! A dose of serotonin is always a good thing, and this band is bringing the feel-good chemicals to 3S. 

After meeting in college and cutting their teeth in the Boston DIY music scene, the band recorded and released their self-produced debut LP, Melancholy Flowers, in 2022. Dynamic yet intimate, Melancholy Flowers features the vocal stylings and songwriting of both guitarist Leo Son and bassist Claire Davis, and smooth and soaring trumpet and trombone from Maclin Tucker and Hoyt Parquet. The band toured in support of the record throughout the year, culminating in four Boston Music Awards nominations, for Live and Pop Act of the Year, Song of the Year for “Daisy,” and Album of the Year.

Since then, the band has played hundreds of stages across the country, making their way from coast to coast and hitting festivals along the way including Boston Calling, Levitate Music Festival, SXSW, and Treefort Music Festival, before returning to the studio in September 2023 with producer Eric Palmquist (half•alive, Tate McRae, Bad Suns, Hunny) to record much anticipated new music, set to be released via Nettwerk Music Group.”

Their opening act, Hush Club, has a lot going for them too. “WBUR describes Hush Club’s music as “groovy, swaying tunes with catchy guitar riffs and melodies about falling in and out of love.” Their latest single, “Violet Cure,” explores the liberation and sensual thrill of new love over an irresistible beat.”

So… Why’d we book them at 3S?

We had Bermuda Search Party (known at that time as the Q-Tip Bandits) open for one of our Harsh Armadillo NYE shows a few years ago, and they absolutely blew the audience (and us!) away. They've played Boston Calling and have all those one-to-watch characteristics. We love supporting a regional act that's quickly building their national appeal. 

We think this show will leave you buzzing. From the musical talent, to the high energy, it might be just what we all need to usher in the warmer weather — a big dose of energy and positivity! 

Come see this band in our intimate Performance Space before they take to bigger stages.

Mark your calendars! Bermuda Search Party will be performing at 3S on 5/17/2025. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm. 

Get your tickets here!