On Friday, December 13, the Midwest emo trio Tiny Moving Parts brought their signature mix of passionate intensity and intricate instrumentation to The Brooklyn Monarch in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The performance was a highlight of their ongoing U.S. tour in support of their self-released eighth album, Deep in the Blue. The night was filled with earnest music, vivacious performances, and a palpable connection between the band and their fans.

Tiny Moving Parts is a Midwest emo band from Benson, Minnesota, that has carved a distinct niche in the alternative music scene. Known for their sentimental lyrics, compelling instrumentation, and invigorating live performances, the trio has become a beloved fixture in the emo and math-rock communities.

The band was formed in 2008 by brothers William (bass, vocals) and Matthew Chevalier (drums), along with their cousin Dylan Mattheisen (guitar, lead vocals). Growing up together in a small town, the three began playing music during their high school years, bonding over a shared love for emo and punk rock. Their tight-knit family dynamic translated into seamless musical chemistry, allowing them to experiment with complex time signatures and melodic layering.

Their early years were marked by grassroots touring and self-released music, which helped them build a loyal fanbase. Their debut album, Waves Rise, Waves Recede, The Ocean is Full of Waves (2010), hinted at the band’s potential and set the stage for their breakthrough. The unwavering support of their fans professes to the success of their DIY ethos, which continues to shine through in their recent endeavors that are persistent in being entirely independent.

Tiny Moving Parts’ sound is a fusion of math rock, emo, and post-hardcore, characterized by enticing guitar tapping, emotive vocals, and spirited performances. Over the years, their music has evolved to balance technical complexity with heartfelt storytelling, making their songs both intellectually engaging and deeply relatable.

Tiny Moving Parts continued to push their creative boundaries in 2024 with the release of their self-produced eighth album, Deep in the Blue. The record marked a significant milestone as the trio embraced complete creative control, releasing the album independently. Featuring tracks like “Before I Go” and “Listen to Your Favorite Songs,” Deep in the Blue showcases their signature style while exploring new sonic landscapes. The album has been praised for its blend of technical virtuosity and emotional depth.

As of 2024, Tiny Moving Parts continues to thrive as a leading force in the independent emo and alternative scenes. With a career spanning over 15 years, they’ve proven that family, passion, and perseverance can create something truly special. Their music resonates with listeners worldwide, offering solace, understanding, and a shared sense of hope.

Tiny Moving Parts kicked off their set “Before I Go,” the opening track from Deep in the Blue, and continued on to play a handful of new tracks off the latest album, including “Deep in the Blue” and “Waterbed Pt. 2.” Despite the tour series honoring their most recent release, the band’s setlist was stockpiled with fan-favorite hits spanning their entire discography, such as “Day Drunk” and “Medicine.” The band’s combination of math-rock-inspired guitar riffs, resonant lyrics, and a zippy stage presence captivated the audience from the first slam of the drums.

Fans sang along to older hits like “Caution” and “North Shore,” with Mattheisen’s intricate guitar tapping techniques on full display. The band’s chemistry was magnetic, with the trio seamlessly weaving between high-octane breakdowns and contemplative, melodic interludes. Their connection to the crowd was evident in moments of shared laughter, singalongs, and even a mid-set shout-out to their dedicated fanbase.

The Brooklyn Monarch: A Perfect Backdrop for Emo Night

The Brooklyn Monarch, nestled in the heart of East Williamsburg, proved to be the ideal venue for Tiny Moving Parts’ performance. Since opening in 2020, the 10,000-square-foot space has quickly become a hotspot for live music and events, and it’s easy to see why. With three stages, including an outdoor stage, full-service bars, late-night dining, and a vibrant backyard space, the venue offers a dynamic setting for any event.

The Monarch’s indoor stage created an intimate atmosphere, allowing fans to get up close and personal with the bands without any barricade blocking the stage from the audience. It is a space that constantly supports independent acts, such as Tiny Moving Parts, while also offering an arena for the scene to thrive, where artists can comfortably connect with fans on and off stage. The venue’s state-of-the-art sound system ensured that every note of Tiny Moving Part’s polished arrangements resonated throughout the room. The layout, which combines spaciousness with coziness, added to the sense of connection between the performers and their audience. The venue staff is always friendly and welcoming, if you wind up at The Monarch often, the security becomes friends and the servers become family. Their production team is top-notch and always accommodating, making it a favorite performance center for not only fans but also artists. In addition to their fantastic team, the venue also has a recording studio above the concert hall, underscoring the owner’s support of smaller artists and the local scene.

Beyond the music, the Monarch is known for its eclectic calendar of events, including themed parties and late-night DJ sets. It is a venue all post-hardcore, metalcore aficionados want to keep on their radar as it hosts some of the best underground titans in that realm. It was clear on Friday night that the venue truly shines during concerts like this one, where the passion of the performers and the adrenaline of the crowd fill every corner.

Tiny Moving Parts’ performance at The Brooklyn Monarch was a testament to the enduring appeal of emo music and the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. Their latest album, Deep in the Blue, has marked a new chapter for the band, and their live show brought that growth to life.

For fans who braved the cold December night to pack the Monarch, the show was more than just a concert—it was a communal celebration of music, emotion, and connection. Tiny Moving Parts continues to prove why they are one of the most enthralling acts in the emo scene, their ability to push boundaries while still staying true to the sound that put them on the map has made them a cornerstone in emo music.

If you missed this unforgettable performance, check out the band’s tour schedule and grab tickets for an upcoming show—you won’t want to miss it.

For more on The Brooklyn Monarch’s upcoming events, visit their website.

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