Johnnyswim Lights Up Denver’s Paramount Theater with Soulful Spark and Intimate Energy

Photos By Gerardo Federico

There’s something rare and refreshing about watching a band that feels more like family than performers. Last Saturday night, April 5, the Nashville-based folk-soul duo Johnnyswim brought that intimate magic to Denver’s Paramount Theater, captivating a packed house with a genre-blending set that felt equal parts concert and campfire confessional.

Made up of husband-and-wife team Amanda Sudano and Abner Ramirez, Johnnyswim has been crafting their sound and story since 2006. Since then, they’ve dropped a steady stream of heartfelt albums, EPs, and even a holiday collection, all brimming with emotional vulnerability and sonic diversity. Their style walks a seamless line between folk, soul, blues, and pop, defying any attempt at easy categorization. What makes them even more endearing is their clear love for the music they make—and for each other—which radiates through every harmony and story shared on stage.

A Theater Buzzing with Anticipation

The night began with a tangible energy flowing through the historic Paramount. As fans filtered in—some clutching vinyl, others sporting vintage Johnnyswim tour tees—the excitement in the air was electric. This wasn’t just a show; it felt like a long-awaited reunion. Denver has a well-earned reputation for welcoming acts with open arms, but this crowd was next-level enthusiastic.

People around me buzzed with anticipation, many no doubt still riding the high of seeing the duo perform their infectious single “Dopamine” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!—a performance that had fans across the country singing along in their living rooms. Now, those same voices were here in person, ready to sing back every word.

A Setlist That Spanned the Spectrum

Johnnyswim didn’t waste any time jumping into their emotionally rich and sonically textured catalog. From the moment Abner’s guitar strummed the first chords and Amanda’s rich, velvety vocals soared across the room, the audience was completely locked in.

Their chemistry is undeniable—whether they’re harmonizing on a soaring chorus or sharing a glance mid-song, it’s clear their bond extends far beyond the stage. Their ability to mix personal storytelling with broad, universal themes is a hallmark of their work, and it was on full display throughout the night.

Tracks from across their discography made appearances, each met with raucous cheers. While older fan-favorites tugged at the heartstrings, it was material from their latest album, When the War is Over, that truly brought the house down. Songs like “Heaven is Everywhere” and “The Last Time” showcased their growth as artists and songwriters, with layered arrangements and poignant lyrics that hit all the right notes.

Of course, “Dopamine” was a clear standout—one of those rare live moments where the energy of the room surges into a collective wave. Every voice in the house joined in, turning the song into a jubilant singalong that felt like a victory lap for the band and their fans alike.

Intimacy, Laughter, and Connection

But what truly sets a Johnnyswim show apart isn’t just the music—it’s the space they create between songs. Whether cracking jokes about life on the road, swapping sweet stories about their kids, or riffing on the joys and chaos of being married bandmates, Amanda and Abner made the Paramount Theater feel like a living room gathering. Their banter was heartfelt and often hilarious, effortlessly bridging the gap between artist and audience.

At one point, Abner paused to reflect on the band’s journey and the meaning behind their latest work, expressing gratitude for the fans who’ve followed them through every chapter. “We’ve played big stages, small stages, and everything in between,” he said, “but nights like this remind us why we started doing this in the first place.”

A Fitting Stage for a Memorable Night

The Paramount Theater, with its ornate art deco charm and warm acoustics, proved to be a perfect venue for Johnnyswim’s intimate yet powerful set. The lighting design added depth to the emotional arc of the performance, shifting seamlessly between moody blues, soft amber glows, and bursts of color that reflected the duo’s sonic diversity.

Whether swaying during a soulful ballad or dancing in the aisles to an upbeat anthem, the crowd was with them every step of the way. It was the kind of concert that reminded everyone in the room why live music matters—why gathering in a shared space to feel something together is an experience like no other.

A Band That Keeps Growing—and Giving

As the night wrapped up, it was clear that Johnnyswim is a band still evolving, still exploring, and still deeply connected to the people who listen. Their ability to navigate vulnerability and joy, to embrace both the epic and the everyday in their songs, makes them more than just performers. They’re storytellers. Truth-tellers. Companions for the road.

For longtime fans and first-timers alike, Saturday night was something special—a reminder that, even in a crowded theater, the right music can make us feel seen, heard, and a little less alone.

If you haven’t yet, make sure to give When the War is Over a listen, and—if you’re lucky enough to catch them live—don’t miss the chance. Johnnyswim is more than a duo. They’re a moment worth experiencing.