If there’s one thing that defined Troubled Hubble during their initial run, it was their relentless dedication to the road. From 1998 to 2005, the band transformed into true road warriors, playing an astounding over 400 shows across the United States and completing two tours of Canada. This wasn’t just casual touring; it was a fundamental part of their identity, allowing them to connect directly with fans and build a grassroots following.
This extensive performance history is a testament to their work ethic and passion for playing music live. They hit almost every state in the US, a feat that few bands accomplish, missing only Alaska and Hawaii. Each show, whether in a packed club or a smaller venue, contributed to honing their energetic stage presence and tightening their already impressive musicianship.
Key moments in their live history include performances at influential events like SXSW in 2005. Participating in such a major industry showcase highlights their growing visibility and the buzz surrounding the band at that time. While at SXSW in 2004, they also garnered humorous notoriety by ranking #1 in an informal poll for the “worst band name,” a quirky anecdote that only added to their unique appeal and sparked conversation.
Their dedication to live music is further evidenced by releases like “Troubled Hubble Live At Double Door 05/05/2004,” a live album that captured the energy and raw power of their performances. This recording allows listeners to experience a taste of what it was like to see the band in their prime – the tight instrumentation, the dynamic shifts, and the infectious energy that defined their stage presence.
The impact of their live performances extended beyond just playing shows. It fostered a deeply dedicated fanbase. Even after their initial breakup in 2005, that fanbase remained, eagerly anticipating a potential return.
That anticipation was finally rewarded with their reunion announcement in June 2015. Their return to the stage at Subterranean in Chicago in September 2015 was met with immense enthusiasm, proving that their live legacy had not faded during their decade-long hiatus.
Looking ahead, Troubled Hubble is set to continue their live journey with a performance at the Treefort Music Fest in Boise, ID, in March 2025. This upcoming festival appearance demonstrates that their live energy is still very much a part of the band’s present and future.
For those who missed the chance to see them during their initial run, or for longtime fans eager to relive the excitement, their recorded output provides a vital link to their live spirit. And central to that recorded legacy is the album they were touring behind during their peak visibility: “Making Beds in a Burning House.” As a special treat for fans, the 2025 reissue of “Making Beds in a Burning House” is scheduled for release this May, from Foreign Leisure, offering a chance to reconnect with the album that soundtracked a significant chapter of their road-worn history.
Broken Prism Studios 