Knoxville native band Solstice enthusiastically graced the stage at one of Knoxville’s most popular performance venues, The Mill & Mine, on Friday, September 5 – opening for the well-established band, The Stews. Solstice transformed the atmosphere into a high energy that carried through every corner of the venue.
For a band that is still considerably “up and coming”, taking the stage at The Mill & Mine is no small milestone. The venue is one of downtown Knoxville’s most renowned spaces, known for hosting nationally touring artists (such as Sammy Rae & Friends and Allen Stone this September) and for its immersive atmosphere. For Solstice, the opportunity wasn’t just another show — it was a statement of their arrival on a bigger stage.
From the moment lead singer, Marty Gee leaned into the microphone with a look of established pride and said, “We’re Solstice,” the audience was locked in. The crowd, glowing and buzzing with excitement, pressed close to the stage and exuded with anticipation. What followed was a performance that proved Solstice belonged on a stage of that caliber and beyond.
The setlist was a showcase of the band’s growing catalog, including hits such as “The Old You” and “Trust My Gut.” Even though some of the songs had only been released recently, there were some in the audience who already knew the words, their voices chanting energetically especially with the catchy choruses. The effect was enthralling — fans weren’t just hearing the music, they were part of it.
Drummer Grayson Strader’s rhythms hit like a pulse through the room, steady and grounding, while the guitars rang out with layered confidence that filled the large space. For a band still making its name, their sound was anything but tentative — it was bold, assertive, and alive.
The chemistry among the members was undeniable. Between and during songs, they exchanged quick smiles and glances, feeding off one another’s energy in a way that only comes from deep trust and countless hours together. Even without an encore-which the crowd asked for-their connection gave the audience more than enough to hold onto.
The Mill & Mine itself amplified the moment. Known for its intimate acoustics and reputation as a launchpad for rising artists, the venue offered an atmosphere that elevated Solstice’s sound — wrapping the crowd in the depth of a performance that felt both intimate and expansive. For Solstice, the night was more than just an opening slot; it was proof that they are ready to carry their music onto ever larger stages.