The Aces

Here’s the event page content for The Aces at Thekla:

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Bristol Welcomes The Aces to Thekla!

Prepare for an electrifying evening as The Aces, the vibrant indie-pop sensations, descend upon the iconic Bristol venue, Thekla, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. This is more than just a gig; it’s a chance to witness one of the most exciting and dynamic bands on the scene deliver their infectious energy and captivating tunes in an intimate setting. Known for their genre-bending sound that effortlessly blends pop sensibilities with rock edge, The Aces promise a night of euphoric anthems, heartfelt ballads, and an undeniable stage presence that has garnered them a passionate global following. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a memorable night as The Aces bring their signature sound to the heart of Bristol.

About The Aces

Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles, The Aces have rapidly carved out a distinct niche for themselves in the contemporary music landscape. Formed by four childhood friends – lead singer and guitarist Katie Henderson, guitarist and vocalist Cristal Ramirez, bassist Shenae Ueda, and drummer Alisa Xayalith – the band’s journey began with a shared passion for creating honest, relatable, and undeniably catchy music. Their early EPs, like Stuck and Young, showcased a raw talent and an innate ability to craft songs that resonated deeply with a burgeoning audience.

Their debut full-length album, When My Heart Felt বিস্ফোরণ (When My Heart Exploded), released in 2018, was a critical and commercial success, earning widespread praise for its mature songwriting and polished production. Tracks like the anthemic “Stuck” and the introspective “New Emotion” quickly became fan favourites, solidifying their reputation as purveyors of infectious indie-pop with a genuine emotional core. The Aces’ sound is a masterful fusion of shimmering synthesizers, driving guitar riffs, and Henderson’s powerful, emotive vocals, all underpinned by the tight, dynamic rhythm section of Ueda and Xayalith.

Their sophomore album, Under the Sun, released in 2020, saw the band push their sonic boundaries further, incorporating more experimental elements and bolder arrangements while retaining their signature melodic flair. Singles such as the disco-infused “Daydream” and the soaring “People” demonstrated their continued artistic growth and their willingness to explore new sonic territories. Throughout their career, The Aces have consistently delivered electrifying live performances, earning them a reputation as a must-see act on any festival lineup or headlining tour. Their ability to connect with their audience on a visceral level, coupled with their undeniable talent, makes them a truly compelling force in modern music. With a growing discography filled with hits and a live show that consistently leaves audiences breathless, The Aces continue to ascend, promising even greater things to come.

Venue Information

Thekla is a legendary venue situated in the heart of Bristol, a former cargo ship permanently moored on the Floating Harbour. This unique and atmospheric setting provides an unparalleled backdrop for live music, offering an intimate and unpretentious experience for gig-goers. Its distinctive charm, coupled with excellent acoustics and a vibrant atmosphere, makes it a beloved destination for both established artists and emerging talent. Thekla consistently attracts a diverse range of musical genres, ensuring a memorable night out for any music enthusiast. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance brimming with the signature energy and infectious charisma that has become synonymous with The Aces. Their live shows are renowned for their dynamic ebb and flow, seamlessly transitioning from high-octane, danceable anthems to more introspective and emotionally charged moments. Expect to hear fan favourites that have soundtracked countless moments for their dedicated fanbase, including the instantly recognisable hooks of “Stuck,” the feel-good vibes of “Daydream,” and the powerful narrative of “People.” The band’s setlist is carefully curated to showcase their evolution as artists, weaving together tracks from their acclaimed debut album, When My Heart Felt বিস্ফোরণ, and their critically lauded follow-up, Under the Sun.

The Aces are not just musicians; they are performers who command the stage with a palpable chemistry and an undeniable joy in their craft. Lead singer Katie Henderson’s commanding presence, coupled with the intricate guitar interplay between Henderson and Cristal Ramirez, creates a visually and aurally captivating spectacle. Shenae Ueda’s driving basslines and Alisa Xayalith’s powerful drumming form an unbreakable rhythmic foundation, propelling each track forward with exhilarating momentum. Their performance style is an explosion of vibrant energy, with the band members clearly feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm and vice versa. Expect moments of pure euphoria as the audience sings along to every word, interspersed with quieter, more poignant passages that highlight the depth and vulnerability in their songwriting. The set duration is typically around 90 minutes, ensuring a comprehensive and satisfying journey through their impressive catalogue. This is a night designed to make you feel alive, to dance, to sing, and to connect with the music on a profound level.

FAQs

Q1: What is The Aces’ typical live setlist like? While setlists can vary slightly, fans can anticipate a robust performance featuring a strong selection of their most beloved tracks. Expect to hear anthems like “Stuck,” “Daydream,” and “People,” alongside fan-favourite deep cuts and potentially some newer material. The band excels at creating a journey through their discography, balancing their upbeat, danceable hits with their more emotionally resonant pieces.

Q2: Are The Aces known for their audience interaction? Absolutely. The Aces are celebrated for their genuine and engaging stage presence. They are known to interact warmly with their audience, sharing personal anecdotes and encouraging singalongs, which helps create a truly intimate and communal atmosphere, even in larger venues.

Q3: What is the typical duration of a The Aces concert? A standard headlining set for The Aces usually lasts around 90 minutes. This allows them ample time to showcase a diverse range of their material and deliver a high-energy, memorable performance without feeling rushed.

Q4: How would you describe The Aces’ musical style for someone who has never heard them before? The Aces craft infectious indie-pop with a strong rock sensibility. Their sound is characterised by shimmering synthesizers, driving guitar riffs, energetic percussion, and lead singer Katie Henderson’s powerful, emotive vocals. They blend catchy pop melodies with a raw, honest lyrical approach, resulting in music that is both uplifting and deeply relatable.

Q5: Will The Aces be playing songs from both their albums, When My Heart Felt বিস্ফোরণ and Under the Sun? Yes, you can certainly expect The Aces to play a balanced selection from both their debut album, When My Heart Felt বিস্ফোরণ, and their sophomore effort, Under the Sun. They are proud of their entire catalogue and typically aim to represent the breadth of their musical journey in their live shows.

Q6: Is there an opening act for The Aces at Thekla? Details regarding any supporting acts will be announced closer to the event date. Please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the most up-to-date information on the full lineup.

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