Walls of Hugs: Frank Turner Reminds Orlando Why Punk Still Matters

By Erin Lee

Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls packed a wallop, crushing 19 songs in an hour at House of Blues Orlando on Monday, February 23rd.

If Frank shows up anywhere in the state of Florida, you can bet I’ll be traveling because his live performance is unmatched. 

Loud and fast from the first note, he kicked off the evening with setlist staple “I Still Believe” from 2011’s England Keep My Bones. 

Immediately Turner makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. 

Photosynthesis finds him lyrically appealing to the audience: “I’ll play, and you sing. A perfect way for the evening to begin.”

He took to the mic and properly greeted us, reassuring the crowd several times throughout the night that everyone should feel safe, comfortable, and welcome. 

Frank played songs from across nine albums in his discography, including five from his most recent effort: 2024’s Undefeated. 

Never one to shy away from politics or the state of the country, he shouted “THIS IS AN ANTI FASCIST SONG!” before barreling headfirst into “1933” which we all yelled the lyrics to alongside him.

A three song acoustic set mid-show was a welcome reprieve from the most intense pit I’ve ever been in. Everyone was respectful and having a good time, but the pushing and crowd surfers were plentiful.

In lieu of a “wall of death” like the metal shows of our youth, Turner encouraged us to open the pit for a “wall of hugs.”

We spread out across the floor, dancing and hugging and just generally enjoying the music and vibes.

He once again kicked the set into high gear with a personal favorite of mine: “Out of Breath” and the heavy hitter “Non Serviam,” which was a first time live for me and my friends in attendance.

No Frank Turner show is complete without him crowd surfing while

continuing to sing (an impressive feat!) “Four Simple Words.” We’re also directed to ballet twirl, a fun visual for a bunch of punks.

As per usual, Turner delivered a rollicking set filled with fun audience participation moments. 

All images by Erin Lee: