The opening of two sold-out Never Shout Never shows at Chain Reaction on Friday night brought out an array of ecstatic fans that were more than ready for the rock trio’s set.

Click here for a photo slideshow of Never Shout Never’s performance.

Lead vocalist and guitarist Christofer Drew turned his previous solo act (under the moniker Never Shout Never) into a full-on touring indie pop band in 2010. That decision, however, didn’t compromise Drew’s solo work, but instead provided enhancements to some of his most notable songs like “Trouble” and “Happy” which are much more lively now on stage courtesy of a full band.

The small venue was completely packed and consisted of mostly younger girls, who were swooning over Drew. The moment the humble, yet captivating, vocalist walked onto the stage, the crowd went ballistic. It was a night of endless screaming and girls calling out “I love you!!!”

Taking several song requests from fans throughout its set only added to the intimate feel of the performance. Watching Drew, it’s easy to see why so many people identify with him. He’s accessible and stays true to his eclectic, colored nails, tribal face-paint wearing self. The stage separating Never Shout Never from its audience becomes nonexistent as he offers a polite but heartfelt “thank you” at the end of every song and an occasional nervous, yet cute, laugh.

There’s something about Drew’s seemingly simple lyrics about love and life along with his boyish charm that managed to captivate an entire room, as audience members fell under his spell while singing and dancing along to every song. The chemistry between the band and its audience was a perfect concoction of love, enchantment and admiration.

This connection seemed comforting to Drew, who spoke to the audience as if he was with any one of his friends from home. At times perhaps he became a little too comfortable, and brought up topics related to marijuana and alcohol that were inappropriate for the plethora of pre-teens who stood there listening. It was pretty apparent by the look on some parents’ faces, who watched a safe distance from the side of the venue, that they were unhappy with the message the artist was sending in the moment.

The show went on, despite some random inappropriate comments, and fans ate it up until the very end and begged for an encore – which it quickly received.

Photos by Drew Kelley, for OrangeCounty.com. Article by Cassie Rossel, for OrangeCounty.com.

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