Royel Otis – Palace Theater – St. Paul MN – October 2nd 2025

Royel Otis w/ BBY — Palace Theatre, St. Paul — 10.2.25

Review and photos by Peyton Rondeau

Opening the night was BBY, who brought a bouncy, heartfelt energy that set the perfect tone. Their mix of dreamy alt-pop and upbeat rhythms instantly pulled the crowd in, and by the second song, people were dancing and vibing along. The vocals were emotional but catchy, and the band had a relaxed, fun presence that fit right in with the night’s atmosphere. BBY’s set was short but full of life — it felt like a warm introduction to what was coming next.

Royel Otis brought a smooth and dreamy energy to the Palace Theatre, filling the room with their blend of indie pop shimmer and laid-back charm. From the moment they walked onstage, the crowd was already locked in — swaying, smiling, and soaking up every hazy guitar line. Their live sound felt effortless, perfectly walking the line between melancholy and joy.

The band’s chemistry was clear from the start. Songs like Sofa King, Adored, and Oysters in My Pocket got huge reactions, with fans singing along to nearly every word. Each track melted into the next with a kind of hypnotic flow — clean guitar tones, warm basslines, and vocals that sounded like they were floating over the crowd. It was the kind of show that didn’t rely on chaos or theatrics, just pure groove and feeling.

The lighting and atmosphere matched the music perfectly — soft blues and pinks washing over the stage, a calm haze rolling through the crowd. Royel and Otis didn’t talk much between songs, but when they did, it felt genuine and easy. Their quiet confidence carried everything. You could tell they were enjoying themselves without needing to make a big show of it.

By the end of the night, the whole room felt warm and buzzing — the kind of afterglow that lingers after a great show. Royel Otis proved that their dreamy sound translates perfectly live: tight, emotional, and full of heart.