Rachel’s Birthday Show: Best Night of Indie Rock, Power Pop, and Garage Punk at Grog Shop

A vibrant promotional poster for Rachel's Birthday Show featuring performances by SUITOR, FUSS, POSTURE, and REGAS-MCDONALD. The design includes bold typography and artistic visuals, setting the tone for an exciting live music event.

Cleveland Heights, OH – On Friday, February 21, 2025, the Grog Shop will host a night of electrifying music to celebrate Rachel’s birthday. The lineup features Suitor, FUSS, Posture, and Regas-McDonald, promising a diverse mix of indie rock, power pop, garage punk, and adult alternative sounds. With doors opening at 7:30 PM and the show starting at 8:30 PM, this event is a must-attend for music lovers in the Cleveland area. Tickets are priced at 10 in advance and 15 at the door, with an additional $3 fee for those under 21. Here’s everything you need to know about the artists, the venue, and the surrounding area to make the most of this unforgettable night.

Suitor, FUSS, Posture, Regas-McDonald Tickets

Sarah Clanton

Rachel's Birthday Show

Fri Feb 21 2025 8:30 PM
Suitor, FUSS, Posture, Regas-McDonald
Grog Shop 2785 Euclid Heights Boulevard Cleveland Heights, OH
Book Tickets

The Artists: A Deep Dive into Their Music and Discography

Suitor: Indie Rock with a Post-New Wave Edge

Suitor is a Cleveland-based indie rock band that emerged from the ashes of Small Wood House, a project that dissolved at the start of the pandemic. Guitarist Chris Corsi and vocalist Emma Shepard began writing songs during lockdown, which eventually became their debut EP, Communion. Joined by guitarist Stephen Ovak (of Jaite), bassist John Corsi, and drummer Ryan Matricardi in 2021, Suitor has since become a staple in the local music scene. Their sound is characterized by spring-loaded guitar lines and Shepard’s throaty croon, drawing comparisons to bands like Sweeping Promises, one of their key influences.

Suitor recently recorded their first full-length LP in Lawrence, Kansas, with contributions from Sweeping Promises. The new album promises to be more collaborative, blending the noisy and pop-y extremes of their earlier work. Fans can expect a setlist that includes tracks from Communion as well as new material, showcasing their evolution as a band.

Setlist Predictions for Suitor:

  1. “Communion”
  2. “Spring Loaded”
  3. “Throaty Croon” (new track)
  4. “Noisy Pop” (new track)
  5. “Lockdown Lullaby”

FUSS: Garage Punk with a Strokes-Meets-METZ Vibe

FUSS is a garage punk trio that formed in 2006 but went on an 18-year hiatus, only to reemerge in 2024 as Cleveland’s self-proclaimed “5th worst band.” Their tongue-in-cheek humor and raw energy make them a standout act, blending the swagger of The Strokes with the intensity of METZ. Despite their self-deprecating description, FUSS has quickly gained a cult following for their high-energy performances and gritty sound.

While they don’t have a formal discography yet, their live shows are a testament to their dedication to the garage punk ethos. Expect a setlist filled with fast-paced, riff-heavy tracks that will get the crowd moving.

Setlist Predictions for FUSS:

  1. “Hibernation Over”
  2. “Cleveland’s 5th Worst”
  3. “Garage Riff Riot”
  4. “Strokes of METZ”
  5. “Punk Revival”

Posture: Power Pop Perfection

Posture is the brainchild of Eric Vaught, a musician from Akron, Ohio. Known for their catchy melodies and infectious energy, Posture delivers power pop at its finest. While details about their discography are scarce, their live performances are a testament to their ability to craft memorable hooks and anthemic choruses. Fans of bands like Weezer and The Replacements will find plenty to love in Posture’s music.

Setlist Predictions for Posture:

  1. “Power Pop Anthem”
  2. “Catchy Hook”
  3. “Akron Nights”
  4. “Melody Machine”
  5. “Chorus Crusher”

Regas-McDonald: Synth-Driven Adult Alternative

Regas-McDonald is the duo of cousins Sam and Matt, who specialize in synth-driven adult alternative music. With three records under their belt, they explore the intersection of melody and avant-garde experimentation. Their live performances are a sonic journey, blending lush synth textures with intricate melodies. Fans of bands like Radiohead and Tame Impala will appreciate their unique sound.

Rachel performing live at Rachel's Birthday Show at REGAS-MCDONALD, captivating the audience with an electrifying performance.
Rachel lights up the stage at her Birthday Show at REGAS-MCDONALD, delivering an unforgettable performance!

Setlist Predictions for Regas-McDonald:

  1. “Synthwave Dreams”
  2. “Melodic Intersection”
  3. “Avant Schmavant”
  4. “Cousin Collaboration”
  5. “Knob-Twiddling Anthem”

The Venue: Grog Shop

The Grog Shop, located at 2785 Euclid Heights Boulevard in Cleveland Heights, is one of the city’s most iconic music venues. Known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, the Grog Shop has hosted countless legendary acts over the years. The venue’s all-ages policy makes it a welcoming space for music fans of all ages, while its proximity to Cleveland’s vibrant cultural scene makes it a must-visit destination.

Venue Highlights:

  • Capacity: 400
  • Atmosphere: Intimate and energetic
  • Amenities: Full bar (for those 21+), merch tables, and friendly staff

Fan Experience: What to Expect

Rachel’s Birthday Show promises to be a night of celebration, camaraderie, and incredible music. Here’s what fans can expect:

  1. Diverse Lineup: From Suitor’s indie rock to FUSS’s garage punk, there’s something for everyone.
  2. Crowd Energy: The Grog Shop’s intimate setting ensures that every performance feels personal and immersive.
  3. Merch Tables: Don’t forget to check out the merch tables for exclusive band merchandise, including vinyl, CDs, and T-shirts.
  4. Birthday Vibes: It’s Rachel’s birthday, so expect a festive atmosphere with plenty of surprises.

Stay and Dining: Where to Eat and Sleep

Dining Options Near Grog Shop

  1. Tommy’s Restaurant: A local favorite known for its milkshakes, falafel, and vegetarian-friendly menu.
  2. Nighttown: A historic restaurant and jazz club offering upscale American cuisine.
  3. The Fairmount: A cozy spot with a diverse menu, perfect for pre-show dining.

Hotels Near Grog Shop

  1. Glidden House: A boutique hotel located just minutes from the venue, offering elegant accommodations and a charming atmosphere.
  2. Cleveland Heights Inn: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and easy access to the Grog Shop.
  3. The Tudor Arms Hotel: A historic hotel with modern amenities, located a short drive from the venue.

Final Thoughts

Rachel’s Birthday Show at the Grog Shop is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of 2025. With a lineup that spans indie rock, power pop, garage punk, and adult alternative, there’s something for every music fan to enjoy. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of Suitor, curious about FUSS’s garage punk revival, or eager to discover Posture and Regas-McDonald, this night promises to be unforgettable. So grab your tickets, make your dinner reservations, and get ready to celebrate Rachel’s birthday in style. See you at the Grog Shop!

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