The unmistakable notes from Marco Benevento’s piano rang out in the streets of historic Uptown Kingston – New York’s first capital – on Friday, September 26th. Benevento, who teamed up with bassist Dave Dreiwitz and drummer Andy Borger, played early into Sunday morning to a hyped-up Hudson Valley crowd. With family and friends aplenty to witness the release show for Benevento’s new album, Swift, no one left BSP without an ear-to-ear grin.
The front doors of the large bar/venue were wide open and folks could cool off on the plaza while still enjoying the feel-good tunes wafting outside. Inside, the music was as hot as the air; the trio rocked while joyous admirers filled the hall with dancing bodies. The shaggy piano man led long jams and, in between, held the audience’s attention with captivating asides.
BSP, located in the heart of New York’s first capital, provided an intimate setting for the Ulster County resident to play for a hometown crowd before hitting the road on tour. A few hundred people filled the spacious room, and everyone had a chance to get as close as desired to the semi-raised stage. In the middle of one 20-minute long improv session, Marco eased up on his piano to clap along and start an “AN-DY” chant, ensuring everyone in the building knew exactly who was banging the drums. Andy Borger fed off the cue, turning in a solid drum solo as Marco and Dreiwitz admired in support.
Later in the set, Benevento’s metaphorical nose grew and grew as he covered Money Mark’s “I Don’t Play Piano,” belting out: “I don’t know how to play piano; I don’t know how to sing.” For over a decade, the world has been aware of his mastery of the piano; the new album, Swift, features his voice as an additional weapon for the first time, evincing the complete inaccuracy of the lyrics. “DJ” Dave Dreiwitz’s stoic onstage persona never wavered even as he thumped out heavy solos, while Marco’s smile crescendoed with the music.
Though the room at BSP was dark, the music was light and uplifting. They played a poppy brand of improvisational, piano-heavy rock that induced the shimmying horde to raise hands to the heavens in delight. The band and crowd instantly engaged in a symbiotic relationship; fans fed off the musicians’ energy and vice versa. Spirits from the bar were lifted for many “cheers” while spirits were lifted by the sprinkling of melodious piano solos, accompanied by raucous cheers.
Around 1 a.m., the band came out for an encore while nearly everyone remained to show support. Benevento, Dreiwitz, and and Borger hit the road next in support of the album, which will conclude at the Brooklyn Bowl on December 18th and 19th.
Their single, “Love We Are We Love,” from their title track released in February has been spun at radio stations across the country and their album has been met with accolades from NPR and No Depression. The duo, The Sea The Sea, bring their brand of interconnectedness to the 518 for a show at The Low Beat Thursday, October 2nd. Be sure to check them out as they have relocated to the Albany area and they intend to become very active with the music community.
Their tale is a mystical story of fate and a series of mishaps that ultimately brought them together. It was by coincidence Mira Stanley held a sign with Chuck’s (E. Costa) name on it during a songwriter’s showcase years prior. Figuratively, it was sign. They didn’t reconnect again until almost five years later after each had been through their own trials. Borrowing their name from Xenophon’s Anabasis, a Greek tale of soldiers returning home, the name The Sea The Sea became their own battle cry of joy! Weaving storyline lyrics and an unmatched harmony, the folk power duo dig deep leaving the listener with an enlightened sense of Universal themes of love and faith. Great Mutations will open tonight’s show. Tickets available at the door.
For years there has been a significant presence of drug use at live music concerts and festivals. Rules and regulations may be placed in attempts to crack down on the buying and selling of illegal substances, but like it or not the drugs do not stop flowing. Up until the past few years there was really no safe way to know what you were purchasing. The main idea behind the “Bunk Police” is that people are going to take drugs no matter how many rules, laws or restrictions the general public are given. If there is going to be drug use, why not make sure it’s safe?
Recognizing the extreme lack of awareness with recreational drug use, Bunk Police founder Adam Auctor took a near death experience to realize that life is short and should be handled with the utmost care. Up until very recently Auctor has remained completely anonymous, not out of fear for repercussions through law enforcement, but instead the backlash from drug dealers for taking customers and money out of their pockets. In some ways Auctor is a true revolutionary amongst the music scene for creating a way to reduce the overdoses and deaths and increase the knowledge when consuming potentially harmful chemicals. No matter how seasoned or knowledgeable one may think they are in the world of illicit substance, it only takes one bad batch to put you over the edge. The Bunk Police is setting out to eliminate that constant “what if”. In some ways The Bunk Police has completely revolutionized music festivals world-wide.
The documentary “What’s In My Baggie?” gives a first hand look from the perspective of patrons, law enforcement and members of the Bunk Police. Numerous times throughout the documentary you are shown many individuals who purchased what they thought to be Molly or MDMA, and after testing their substance with their Bunk Police test kit found they had Bath Salts or an unrecognizable drug. Recently national news has picked up on the unsafe conditions of music festivals nation wide. From Electric Zoo to Bonnaroo, there are overdoses and deaths and there is no shortage of finger-pointing. Festivals that have been around for years are slowly slipping into the shadows after they make national headlines for having patrons over dose and die on what was thought to be MDMA. People are now beginning to question if music festivals are even safe to begin with. Many believe that by handing out drug testing kits you are potentially influencing individuals to take drugs, where in reality by taking away the drug testing kits the room for fatality and injury due to substance use is immeasurable. One way or another people need to know what they are putting into their bodies. At any given point an individual could find any drug they wanted any where they wanted almost instantaneously. This is why the work that The Bunk Police has done with its readily available test kits is astronomically huge for the safety of patrons at music festivals.
From start to finish the documentary is nothing short of phenomenal. It does a great job of getting a broad spectrum of different perspectives as well as showing the ins and outs of drug trade throughout festivals. It is refreshing to finally see these issues that are plaguing the music scene be brought to light to hopefully raise questions and awareness to the drug culture that is ever-growing.
Brooklyn’s Dopapod have announced that their 4th studio effort, Never Odd Or Even will be independently released on November 11th. Culminating from a combination of studio efforts and a gargantuan touring schedule bringing ‘Pod all over the country, fans and band members alike are psyched. East Rochester native and shred-master/vocalist Rob Compa shares his excitement – “The Never Odd or Even sessions cultivated a serious growth in the band’s creativity, each person stepped to the plate and put out great creativity and passionate playing, while inspiring everybody else involved in the project to do the same. We really feel that the material this time around represented a big leap forward, not just in the way we’ve been interacting as a band, but in the way our focus has become sharper in paying attention to things like melody, theme, lyrical imagery, and structure – all the elements that make a great song.”
Organist/keyboardist Eli Winderman added his own thoughts about the recording process with friend and producer Jason “Jocko” Randall – “We lived at his studio for about a month for these sessions and it just clicked right away, with Jocko’s attitude and approach to the recording process, we were able to really dial in the sounds we wanted, get those perfect takes we were aiming for, and have a blast the whole way through.” Fans interested in the new album can visit the bands website to sign up for a mailing list which will get them a FREE digital download on release day as well as a chance to stream the first video released, “Picture in Picture”.
Upstate fans will have several opportunities to catch Dopapod this fall starting with a homecoming show for Mr. Compa this Thursday, October 2nd at Water Street Music Hall in Rochester with instrumental wizard trio Consider the Source. Local up and coming uber-talented guitarist Collin Jone’s one man band Stereo Nest will start the show up in style. Ticket’s are available online and at several local ticket vendors ($12.50 pre/18$ door).
Check out our list below for more area Dopapod show opportunities.
10/23 Niagara Falls, NY – Rapids Theatre w/ Umphrey’s McGee $27.50-$30
10/29 Binghamton, NY – Forum Theatre w/ Umphrey’s McGee $25-$30
11/1 Oneonta, NY – Oneonta Theatre w/ Space Carnival
11/21 New York, NY – The Gramercy Theatre w/ Alan Evans’ Playonbrother & Teddy Midnight $16-$21
Despite the torrential downpour that swept the Syracuse streets this past Sunday, this year’s annual Westcott Street Cultural Fair lit up with a vibrancy and energy that could outlast any inclement weather. With over 30 acts performing on six different stages across Westcott Street, thousands of visitors got the chance to celebrate their cultural roots with acts ranging from Ivory Coast inspired drumming to tribal fusion belly dance.
The festival features over 100 artist tents, with a range of shopping in addition to Westcott Street’s most trusted food vendors. Free classes were also available during the entirety of the festival, where visitors of all ages can learn yoga, belly dance, and drumming. In case you’d rather watch the pros, you can always mosey over to the Wacheva Multicultural tent, where you can witness their Drumming and Dance studio perform Flamenco, Salsa, and African Dance routines.
With the addition of the Golisano Children’s Hospital Kids’ Stage (and a plethora of puppies!), this festival has a friendly, family-oriented vibe. But don’t fret fellow millennials- the ongoing concert series engages audiences of all ages, especially for funk lovers. If you consider James Brown and Wild Cherry your scene, dancing in the pouring rain to the Blacklites as they perform on the WAER Main Stage is an unforgettable experience. With an energetic stage presence and howling 12-piece band, there was no way you could stand still during their performance.
For anyone who wants to stay in the loop for next year’s event, follow the Westcott Street Cultural Fair on their website, Facebook, and Twitter.
Some time has passed and the words are just starting to come to those who collectively took part in what can only described as a lucid nirvana; a tangible bliss experienced by all senses.
Entering its fourth year, Night Lights Music Festival had a buzz, but it wasn’t until after that anyone realized how special this year was. Back in early spring, the announcement of such acts as Turkuaz, The Mike Dillon Band, Consider the Source, and the all-mighty Snarky Puppy generated an unheard of type of hype in Buffalo: one that looked past our short summer months. The music appreciators of the community carried the excitement right onto the grounds as the first day began.
The high musical expectations bonded the group that gathered as tents were pitched and friends were quickly made. Everyone on the grounds were extremely friendly, bringing Buffalo’s moniker of the “The City of Good Neighbors” out to the woods of The Heron in Sherman, NY. The fest could not have been laid out any better. Camping was close, two totally different stage experiences and plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the fall weather and scenery in New York state. The foliage alone at this time of year provided a view during the day that matched the light spectacle at night. The ground’s fruitful accommodations didn’t stop there either. Bands were happily able to park, unload, and reload their gear right next to the stage and the food was as delicious as it was affordable. There were two places that you could grab a bite to eat and it was hard to pass the offers up. For $15 you could get a cheeseburger, a generous slice of pizza, a grilled cheese sandwich, a bottle of water, a bowl of amazing chili, and still have a little money to tip the staff for their hospitality. The people of Night Lights ate like royalty for the two days spent in the woods.
Everything from top to bottom met or exceeded expectations, leaving only the bands to hold up their end of the bargain, and standing right there waiting was the full lineup, eager to accept the challenge.
Day one started off with Cleveland’s Broccoli Samurai, bringing their flavor of jamtronica to an area that is familiar with the band and showed up in support. As the four-piece danced through melodies, the crowd gathered and began letting go. Drummer Chris Walker’s drum and bass style of playing paired well with the band’s more atmospheric sound. If this was any indication of how the festival would go, it was already traveling in the right direction. As the day wore on, more people began to arrive after getting out of work and rushing to join in the fun. Being later in the season, daylight was quickly fading and the first glimpse of this year’s lights were being eagerly awaited. Between nine and midnight, a great back-to-back combination of Jimkata and Lazlo Hollyfeld took hold of the collective spirit for the first time. It shouldn’t have caught anyone off guard as both bands have local ties with Jimkata spawning from Ithaca and Lazlo calling Buffalo home. In the case of Lazlo, this is even more special as Night Lights was started by these guys, and through their vision, it’s grown quickly in four short years to the best festival in Western New York. Lazlo’s set was packed with energy, and if you’ve caught this act, you’d know that this wasn’t anything different from when they rip up the stage at Nietzsche’s. With the band featuring Matt Felski on vibraphone, their sound is unique and incredibly exploratory at times. The music appreciators showed their love for the band for not only their music, but what they have built this festival into.
The highlight of the night though came during Dopapod‘s already jam-heavy set. As the band proceeded to wow the audience, Buffalo’s own Mike Gantzer came out for a sit-in with the band. The Western New York love was in the air as known-Rochesterian Rob Compa played opposite on ax from Gantzer. The two traded licks before syncing up for a momentum-building tear across fretboards, propelling the Friday night party onward to the Saturday morning. It’s not even fair to say that Mike holds his own up there anymore as he’s now joined the club and making Aqueous fans across Buffalo prouder with each moment under the lights. As the party wound down, campers were sharing their own version of what they heard, completely unaware that Saturday would only raise the bar.
Saturday started with rather ominous weather, but that could not surpass the energy for the second day of music. Afternoon sets by Rochester’s Ocupanther and Buffalo’s Funktional Flow showed off what the area is capable of in terms of young talent. Both bands have been cutting their teeth in the local scene and beginning to stretch out into other markets. Even with different styles, both bands had a solid draw and brought their best to the stage.
The brass sounds of the 12/8 Path Band carried the party both physically and emotionally into the woods as the lights began to take effect and illuminate the path to the Café Stage, which was buried in the woods. The Mike Dillon Band was up next and it would be their dynamic set that started the domino effect. For the next seven straight hours, the festival would peak, hitting a stretch and a high rarely seen in these parts. The music would transcend the woods that surrounded the grounds, igniting a powerful music experience. Mike Dillon himself stepped up onto the Café Stage with his wild hair and larger-than-life personality. As he took his helm behind the xylophone, Mike announced that his bassist was probably soaring overhead as his flight was delayed. If it was any indicator of the amount of talent though that was present at this fest, the show went on with John Ferrara from Consider the Source sitting in and providing a new perspective on the low-end for Mike to dabble with. It wouldn’t be the only sit in of the day either with Mike Dillon returning the favor later in the night.
As the show began, there were few knowing what to expect. Mike Dillon’s prowess was quickly realized though as there are few that have, both, the energy and imagination that Mr. Dillon embodies. His melodic choice in the instrument helps take the crowd musically to another world, while the rhythmic aspect of it allows him to channel the passion that is coursing through his veins. The band channeled the Consider the Source-style experimental heaviness with John putting out a vibe that the drummer hopped on and accentuated. As you’d expect with a last-minute substitution, there were some things just called on the fly, but what you wouldn’t expect was how well the band pulled it off. The execution must have energized Mike to step out into the unknown as he called out to his two stagemates saying, “Here’s one you two have never played before. It’s in the key of C.”
There was hardly a stutter in their phrasing.
Mike’s actual bassist eventually arrived and finished out the set, thanking John for his help in the process. Mike’s work with the sticks was fascinating to watch from both an artist and crowd perspective. He sent people spinning with enthusiasm while the stars made their entrance and the night set in. As the rawness of the set came to a close, the residual sound permeated the deciduous surroundings, filling in with sound what the lights could not.
The night wouldn’t let up.
As Mike Dillon finished his set, there was a funk army setting up camp under the Main Stage tent, preparing to unleash on the unsuspecting crowd. From the distance, you could hear the rolling bass line of Taylor Shell and the heavy stomp of Buffalo-native Michelangelo Carubba behind his kit. As the crowd drew closer, the sound filled out with a varied vocal attack, a loaded brass section, and guitars that cut through the crisp, autumn air. There was simply no slowing the roll of this unit as their forward progression was almost uncontrollable. The band’s strongest asset in Carubba stomped out a heavy beat, keeping this arsenal of weapons on track and coming right at you.
Over the course of this year alone, Turkuaz has covered bands like the The Talking Heads, and most recently, Sly and the Family Stone at this year’s Catskill Chill. Giving the Night Lights crowd a taste, the band pulled out a well-timed cover of the Talking Heads “Slippery People”, shedding light on a clear influence to their sound. Another highlight from their set was the song “Electric Habitat”. The tightly executed song pushed the crowd as the melodic line was woven through the rhythm of the song. Guitarist Craig Brodhead really dug in on this one and clawed his way up the tonal food chain to stand out amongst his peers. If music is technically using the same set of notes that are available to every other musician that’s come before them, then where did these guys find all of this energy? The momentum they set in motion from the very first note is like no other band out there today.
The unique blend of sound is not even a result of their instruments alone as the crowd was treated to an acapella segment during their set. The entire band layered vocal tones while bassist Taylor Shell gave a scruffy “Yeah, yeah, yeah” lyrical contribution. The overall assault from the Brooklyn-based group was felt by the crowd who were sent reeling from their set. On the way back to the Café Stage, there were plenty of “did you know they were that good” type comments between the path travelers. With some of that militant funk mentality rubbing off on the crowd, the collection of people pushed forward into the night preparing to endure even more at the hands of Consider the Source.
The Middle Eastern ‘sourcery’ commenced immediately as their sound was encompassed by that culture among many others. The overall drive behind their set though was pushed with a heavy dose of metal, which was clearly an influence on their approach. Gabe, Jeff, and John are the only three who make up the band, but you wouldn’t be able to guess that with your eyes closed. Their sonic assault is a clear indicator of what World War Trio will sound like, and a great follow-up to the barrage of funk from Turkuaz.
Gabriel Marin is the guitarist in the group by instrument, but equipped with a MIDI pickup, he is able to pull out just about any tone he chooses on a given night. As the crowd approached the stage, a heavy dose of xylophone had people wondering if Mike Dillon was making an appearance with the band, only to find out that it was coming from Gabe. His aggressive approach was balanced by his smoothness as his hand glided around the fretboard, providing much color and flavor to their songs. Pulling from his inner Tom Morello, Gabe culled noises and wrangled them into a driving melody that was full of rage. The whole group embodied this angstful spirit that came out through both their music and stage presence as they thrashed around and felt the music deeply. The encircling crowd felt it too, as many closed their eyes and got lost in the progressive jams. The deep synchronicity the band fell into carved out a deep and wide aural path that the crowd willingly followed them down. While their set wound down to the end, the energy certainly wasn’t. The woods danced with colors and people followed suit as they made their way back to the main stage where the pinnacle of the night was about to take place. The peaking energy was felt through the trees and up from the ground with every step.
As the excitement came to a head, the crowd gathered under the big tent at the Main Stage for an experience few had heard or seen before. The members of Snarky Puppy took to the packed stage, fitting in like a puzzle piece with how many instruments were laid out. It has to be noted as well that this was not the exact same band that played the night before, and even that band wasn’t the same as the night before that. Snarky Puppy’s rotating cast provides an interesting twist to jamming and the cohesive sound that is developed from it. Not only do members rotate in and out throughout the tour, but each and every musician is a multi-instrumentalist with the ability to pick up something different on any given night. It doesn’t matter who anyone holds atop their musical pedestal, there is no band better than these guys right now. The band is a true musicians band and it showed with every Night Lights act collecting backstage, trying to catch a glimpse of these guys. Saying that on it’s own though would be selling the band short, suggesting that they’re unable to relate to the common and casual music listener. That couldn’t be further from the truth. The band is capable of taking an odd time signature and creating a groove and feel that’s deep enough to get a crowd dancing. Each and every person latched on to every swell and lingered on every ebb and flow.
As the band progressed through their set, it was a true spectacle to see how easily they translated their music. Buffalo is a music-loving community and showed its true appreciation for the band over and over again throughout the band’s set. At one point during the show, bassist/conductor Michael League took the time to clap out a beat, asking the crowd to join in with its relative ease. Once everyone caught on, he remarked, “there, now you can all count in 7,” simplifying something complex down to the non-musically inclined.
Taking nothing away from the whole, the percussion work within the group was driven, yet subtle; calculated, yet raw. Louis Cato specifically on the drums, who happened to play bass the night before because he simply can, put on a clinic. With their music education outreach, maybe he was just confused on where he was because he was there to teach that night. As I sat surrounded by some of the best drummers backstage, their eyes couldn’t get any bigger than mine as they watched this man completely decimate the kit without losing one person in the crowd. Even with all of this power, the band could still finesse a note and added a gentle touch to the color, painting just enough at times for the brush to touch.
Coming back for an encore, the band searched out Mike Dillon to join them. His unusual approach fit in well and a musical battle ensued to close out the set. Dillon’s words the next day on social media summed up his experience saying, “They [Snarky Puppy] are one of the few Denton bands that came out of the school of music that have continued a trajectory. Every time I see them, they get better.” While it’s hard to understand how a band that did what they did at Night Lights can continue to get better, the hundreds of fans who were there will surely check back next time to see if that holds true. It was a treat to have one of the best in the world out in Sherman, NY for one night, pushing that high point higher than it has ever been. These guys are more than just a band; It’s a musical prophecy coming to fruition and everyone there bore witness to the truth.
With an almost insurmountable hill to climb following Snarky, Buffalo’s beloved sons in Aqueous didn’t try to fight the current. Instead, they did what they’ve been come to be known for and settled in to their healing role after everyone’s mind was just collectively blown. In this area, it’s typically been at the hands of these guys, but being always up for the challenge is built-in being from Buffalo. As the set got going, it was clear that their new drummer Ryan Nogle provided a spark to the band as it had been a while since they played this inspired and driven. What was assumed to be a reliever role, was soon flipped, as the band continued the pace that Mike Dillon and Turkuaz started and Consider the Source and Snarky Puppy pushed forth. Nogle and the rest of the guys were channeling all of the greats that came before them on this given night and their bright choruses and slow rolling groove kept bodies in motion well into the night. It’s hard to place a finger on it, but Mike Gantzer is one of the most engaging and compelling guitarists out there today. With his efforts, the band built swelling jams, reaching an ominous high point before letting it all fall down. Their ability to change gears and send you soaring is a gift that they share with some of the bigger acts of the night. The crowd might’ve been still reeling from what proceeded, but they were willing to let Aqueous take them higher.
Despite the urge to keep the trajectory, eventually all good things must come to an end. In the case of Night Lights Fall Music Festival 2014, all great things came to an end as well. There was unfortunately no exception to the rule, regardless of the crowd’s willingness to keep dancing. The threshold and boundary to which music can be pushed was just tested this year and it opened up a lot of people’s minds to how high they can personally set that bar. For those in attendance, it will be tough for a while to hear something that can even hold a light to Night Lights. We all drank from the fountain of musical youth and rejuvenation was aplenty.
All video is courtesy of our friends at Buffalo.fm
Not quite ready to admit 2014’s music festival season is over yet? It does not have to be. The first annual Resonance Music & Arts Festival takes place from October 2-4 at the Frontier Ranch in Pataskala, Ohio. Located 20 miles east of Columbus, the festival features two nights of Ohio natives Papadosio as well as Greensky Bluesgrass and Nahko and Medicine for the People as headlining bands.
The music starts Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m., and plays continuously for more than 12 hours per day on Friday and Saturday. Resonance boasts an eclectic lineup—from the multi-layered electronic beats of ESKMO to Twiddle‘s uplifting jams and The Mantras‘ heavy shredding to deep funk from The Main Squeeze, most branches of rock are covered.
The Empire state will be well-represented each day. Tauk and Aqueous play Thursday, Aqueous jams again Friday afternoon, and Consider the Source closes the music early Sunday morning after a long set from Dopapod Saturday night. Tauk has been touring furiously in support of their 2014 album, Collisions, while Consider the Source plans to release the first part of their new album, World War Trio, on Halloween. Dopapod has a new album, Never Odd Or Even, scheduled to come out on 11/11/14.
If the music is not enough, there will be visual arts, fire dancing, yoga, and The Amazing Giants will be hard to miss, donning colorful outfits and performing acrobatics on stilts. Each ticket also includes car camping, so you will never be too far from extra blankets or a quick heat source at this early autumn festival.
View the complete schedule and purchase tickets here.
If Twenty One Pilots is not flying onto your bucket list of a “must see” in concert, add it. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2014 the Quiet is Violent Tour came to Main Street Armory in Rochester, N.Y. and showed all who came what a concert is all about. Vinyl Theatre and Misterwives opened, making all the buzz from everyone saying “That was one of the best concerts I have been to.”
Twenty One Pilots, Photo by Cathy Bechle
Two words for Twenty One Pilots – respect and inspiring – they are the result of hard work and determination showing that you can make it into this industry without being discovered. Mike Gibson, tour manager for Twenty One Pilots, shared with NYS Music prior to doors opening, why they have such a strong cult like following and operate differently from most. Growing up with the dynamic musical duo, he understands these two musicians like no other possibly could. A professional clean-cut guy, he has his head on straight with an easy going vibe about him. In fact, Josh Dun and Tyler Joseph have surrounded themselves with people who have very specific traits that are important to their success from what I can tell, intelligence, focus, determination, they need to be goal oriented and must have values or they need not apply. All of this so they can successfully perform their music, have a blast while doing it and give fans an amazing show.
Mike explained more about the incredibly driven people to help make it all happen. Starting with asking how many bands out there today consider that achieving “success” or “fame” is when that money from the first few shows come in and then goes directly into a band’s pocket. Perhaps it goes to support a glamorous lifestyle or even comfort from a van to a tour bus. Well, this band should be a model example on how to handle finances. As he continued, he thought that the strong values they were taught as they were growing up, close family ties, an awesome Manager (Chris Woltman) and of course the band’s financial adviser (Mike’s Dad) make doing what these guys love continue to happen. The rule they follow to always make the next show better than the last and to always invest back into the show.
Fans enjoying the performances. Photo by Cathy Bechle
As Mike was reminiscing about the best times on the road it was not on the big tour bus that was parked in front of us, although truth be told he did say it was much more comfortable. It was on the road in the van in the very beginning a couple of years ago. They did not cash in early on well-paying gigs for personal comfort, instead they opted to reinvest in themselves and stay in the van. They outlook, give a better performance, more lightning, better equipment and experience for the people who come to show and to make sure they are still having fun while performing what they love.
Clearly remembering about good times these guys have had by the look in his eyes as spoke about the cold winter nights were invigorating going from one city to the next and saying how those were some of the best times together. Their alarm clock was parking lot security wherever they parked; being woke up as they were kicked out the next morning “Time to move on guys”. With a slight chuckle as we continued to talk I was brought into feeling that those were the times where it was an a whole new exciting adventure. Young guys, in a band, on the road, in different cities, I am a smart women and know there are stories there, but listen, some things are just meant for a band to keep under “band code rules” and a writer to know better than to ask and to just to respect.
Now that they have grown they have a Manager that is best described as looking like Jesus (insert laughter from Mike and saying “he really does”) who is great at making calculated and driven decisions with their goals in mind. His name, Chris Woltman. Mike elaborated about the path they have paved for themselves and feels that their faith early on as Christians while growing up helped them avoid some potholes along the way. One pothole avoided, almost missing the opportunity to work with Chris. During the time where they were talking with potential managers Chris’s scheduled flight in to see a live performance did not take off. The show was of epic and historic proportion for them and their hometown of Columbus at the Newport Music Hall. A sold out show, three in history that have ever been able to accomplish this before at this venue, so when they stood outside and looked up at the marquee it was a moment to take in. The band and the whole town pitched in selling tickets to this show, again grassroots efforts on how they became to be. The guys didn’t know what to think about Chris not being able to make this important show, but quickly focused on what they just did and the people who helped make it happen. It turned out that Chris, was the one. They met with a few others but similar to finding a spouse no else came close to the feeling that got from Chris. They just knew he was the right fit.
So how does all of this lead to a concert review you ask? The determination for performing, making sure it is doing what they love and showing the audience a performance that they have invested continuously back in, was mind-blowing evident that night. Lightening was amazing from the color changes, directions, types, size, timing it was consistently changing to keep the mood of the performance. Josh and Tyler giving all trust into the literally hands of their fans by having them holding them up as they perform on a platforms was crazy. Fans watched in pure amazement as the energy as they act out their music and interact with them directly. The music was not just heard, by watching reactions Twenty Pilots are also investing emotionally and physically directly into people in unique ways. A concert is entertainment to listen, feel and watch. It is astounding that how only two people on a huge stage kept everyone’s attention the entire performance. The wonder of what was going to happen next look and surprised faces and expressions as confetti was being shot from the stage kept people wanting more and for the night not to end.
With ever concert there are opening bands and performances. The first group to kick it off and get everyone moving and smiling was Vinyl Theatre. They had won battle of the bands in 2013 to open for Twenty One Pilots, newbies to the music scene forming in 2012. Gaining new fans with their sound of indie electronic rock that night they will surely keep them because of the passion. Each member exudes it when they are on stage. A trait of the performance that makes music worth watching. This was starting to transform the night into what has long been lost in definition as a concert by transforming the music experience into a new level. Their record label, Fueled by Ramen, seem to have targeted their artists having deep passion as they perform; making the record label one to watch as the sign artists.
Misterwives added to the build up to the night amping up the crowd. This group’s carefree and fun spirits is contagious in the crowd. Group participation as Mandy Lee, lead singer, led the audience to snap along with them during songs was a communication all of its own between the artists on stage and the people taking it all in. The whole band is amazing. Front women Mandy is a vocal powerhouse. She is the full package when it comes to lead singers. Has the energy to rock the whole performance with their pop style, has a personality that keeps it entertaining to watch and spot on vocals. The ability to reach the back of the room with her voice from such a petite body but then would have people leaning in at the right times for the dynamics and drama. Watching each of her Misterwives look as she performed smiling they all feed off one another with a pure look. The talent they had paid off by the response from everyone.
At the end of the performance, I caught up with Mandy to share how incredible her powerhouse of a voice is. Giving me a huge hug she was bubbly with an amped up energy level. She replied humbly with a huge smile hearing that their performance was so well received by their potential new fan base in Rochester, NY. She was gracious to agree to with Andy DeLuca Photo making sure we caught it all live and putting this together for us to share:
Definition of a concert to me is a mass of people who could sing along to every fast paced lyric, got on the shoulders of their friends when the singer asked, displayed emotion as the music touched them at a personal level and musicians constantly looking directly into the sea of people and in return picking up the bands satisfaction as they performed is a concert that exceeds expectations. This night was packed with pure satisfaction for the music and the people who were there to experience it. Commonalities of each group going up for their set and performance night after night is to share their passion of music as artists.
The last-minute of the show with only my phone video to record captures a glimmer of the definition of the word “concert”. Their hard work to this point in their career has captured more than a definition of a word. It has captured an emotion, feeling and provides and experience to all that get to be entertained by their talent and skills. Thank you Twenty One Pilots, your support systems and management. The Bands that you have on tour with you that share the same passion and drive yet have unique differences your fans to new musical creations.
As I prepared for Day 11 at the Great NY State Fair, I looked forward to the closing out the day of music, some glitz and glamour with my Miss Syracuse ladies, and taking in all the exhibits, food, and festivities as the week-long Fair began winding down. It had been the most amazing week for NYS Music staff members as we covered shows and events, and took in all the fun we possibly could so that we could share with our readers. With the Grandstands holding its final concert the night before, I looked forward to the shows at Chevy Court and a local band who I had been wanting to see for a while this fine Sunday.
First up at Chevy Court was MKTO, then I would be off to see The Rick Short Band, and then I would finally get to check another off my bucket list, with the Phillip Phillips show. Apparently I was not the only one with the Phillip Phillips show on a bucket list. As I approached the photography area at Chevy Court, I learned that one young lady had been there since sunrise when her folks dropped her at the gates to get the perfect seats. This was surely going to be a day to remember for her as she sat front and center with her friends, beaming from ear to ear that she would be first row center to see her favorites MKTO and Phillip Phillips. Now that’s a fan.
Day 11
MKTO – Who is MKTO you ask? MKTO has recently burst onto the pop music scene over the past few years with their hits “Thank You” and “Classic”. The duo, made of up Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller, met while working together on Nikolodean’s show Gigantic.
These two extremely talented young men began jamming together and the duo was born. Mixing pop, rap, and hip hop, their style is refreshing and energetic. Their background in acting, their musical talent, and their dynamic stage presence is the perfect combination to be the next big thing. Truly enjoyed watching them as they performed, and as they brought their young crowd to the feet singing and dancing along. Have to admit, do love their song “Classic”; is catchy and sends a good message to the younger generation about the importance of keeping it classy.
Set List: Could Be Me > Forever Until Tomorrow > God Only Knows > American Dream > No More Second Chances > Heartbreak > Am I Wrong > Wasted > Nowhere > Get My Way > Hide Your Girl > Goodbye Song > Thank You > Classic
Rick Short Band – Over the past few years I have tried to coordinate my schedule to be able to catch local favorites and good friend Rick Short and his band out and about. Unfortunately until today it had eluded me. With Tracy Bowens on vocals, Zach Calidonna on bass, Eddie Reilly on vocals and drums, Brian Tuttle on lead guitar, Callendra Comstock on vocals, and Rick Short on vocals and guitar, they played several songs that will be featured on their upcoming CD they are working on. With an anticipated release somewhere in the spring, the group shared with the audience some of their upcoming releases to positive results. His band, The Rick Short Band, specializes in what they call real rock and roll. We certainly were rocked, and look forward to seeing them again.
Phillip Phillips – Crowds began to gather for Phillips Phillips earlier than normal for this free show at Chevy Court. After exploring the fairgrounds for the day I decided to stake my claim to a spot close by the stage for the evening. Taking possession much earlier than normally, I wasn’t alone in my thought process. The immediate stage area was already spoken for, mainly by those who had seats from the earlier show. So as I sat there partaking in one of my favorite past times, people watching, I witnessed something pretty special that made Phillip Phillips a pretty stand up guy in my book. The security people, who by the way were awesome the whole fair, took notice of that young lady who had arrived at sunrise to see this show. Notifying the management for Phillip Phillips, shortly before the show began they surprise her and escorted her back stage to meet him in person. In tears and shaking, the young lady could barely walk to the back for the encounter. As she returned from the occurrence, she was ear-to-ear smiles chattering away about what had just happened. I just love seeing performers take notice like that and thank their fans who are so dedicated them. The humility in it sets them apart in my book.
Phillip Phillips who is best known as the winner of American Idol season 11, this young man has found a way to share his passion with the world, and we are certainly glad he has. With two albums under his belt, his song “Home” is the highest selling coronation song from any of the Idol winners to date. Phillip knew he had the music fever at the age of 14. Mentored by his brother-in-law,Benjamin Neil, Phillip pursued his passion in and around his hometown of Leesburg, GA playing with his brother in law’s band at local venues and events. Trying out for America’s Got Talent, he never made it to the final rounds. However this didn’t deter him, in fact it made him more determined to succeed, and off he went to audition for American Idol. Never in jeopardy of being eliminated during the competition, his talent shone through.
As he played at Chevy Court, it was apparent to me that this 23-year-old young man was special. As Phillip Phillip took the stage, what occurred during this performance seemed almost magical in its energy. I had covered the majority of the events over the course of the week, and as I began to watch him perform I was totally blown away. His enthusiasm and passion were transparent and you felt it as he performed. His stage presence and interactions with the audience just drew you in more. All the artists booked are talented, and I enjoy each and every performance, but WOW is all I can say about Phillip Phillips. He sang and played with a passion that mesmerized you. You literally felt the music as he played. Hands down this was my favorite performance of the Fair. He had me at hello.
The special passion and energy didn’t end at the edge of the stage either. One special couple took this opportunity to celebrate their special moment with the entire audience as Phillip Phillips played along. Yep, this show was special for sure.
Set List: Lead On > Get Up > Raging Fire > Unpack > Where We Came From > Gone > Man On The Moon > Trigger > Fly > Lillipop > Fool’s Dance > Home
Day 12 – $1 Day
Well as the Fair came to a close on Labor Day, they decided to try something new this year by offering $1 entrance, $1 rides, and many vendors charged $1 for favorite food items. As this new concept was born, it’s one I believe will live a long life as the record that was broken after twenty-five years the previous Saturday, was once again broken. 122,870 people took advantage of the final day at The Great NY State Fair.
Doobie Brothers – Closing out Chevy Court were the legendary Doobie Brothers. This multi-talented group has demonstrated their longevity and perseverance in the music business by doing exactly what they love, making great music. With a blend of blues, soul, R&B, and rock ‘n’ roll, these multi-talented award-winning musicians just continue to make great music and rock their audiences. The band has produced 3 multi-platinum, 7 platinum and 14 Gold albums; with five top 10 singles and 16 top 40 hits.
This ever evolving group, has proven over the course of the years that no matter what changes occur within the band, within the music industry, or within the world, being true to their sound and making music their way, produces music with a heart that their tried and true fans, and an ever evolving new fan base just love. Touring now with the band we have Tom Johnston – guitars, keyboards, harmonica, vocals, Patrick Simmons – guitars, banjo, flute, vocals, John McFee – guitars, harmonica, dobro, pedal steel, violin, vocals, John Cowan – bass guitar, vocals, Guy Allison – keyboards, backing vocals, Marc Russo – saxophones, Ed Toth – drums, and Tony Pia – drums, percussion. I personally am looking forward to their newest album’s release around the beginning of November 2014. In a collaborative effort with Nashville’s top country musicians, this album is already proving to be one of the most anticipated albums of the year. This collaborative effort pushes the boundaries, and follows a trend of forging rock and roll and country music in a new direction. The Doobie Brothers consider their music American Rock, and I wholeheartedly agree.
The Disco Biscuits are gearing up for the third installment of City Bisco this weekend in their home town of Philadelphia. This year the Biscuits have expanded City Bisco to include three nights spanning three different venues. The weekend kicks off this Thursday September 25th at The Trocadero. This show is only available with a three-day pass so get your tickets here.
Friday night they move to the Electric Factory where they will play with American Babies. The Biscuits will cap it all off Saturday night at the Mann Center with supporting acts Giorgio Moroder “the godfather of disco,” Orchard Lounge, and Risky Disco. The Biscuits always bring the heat to Philly so this is a weekend surely not to miss! Tickets to these shows can be found here and single day passes for the Mann center can be found here. Thursday and Friday night’s show start at 7pm. Doors are at 5pm for the Mann center, show starting at 6.
With ever concert there are opening bands and performances. The first group to kick it off and get everyone moving and smiling was Vinyl Theatre. They had won battle of the bands in 2013 to open for Twenty One Pilots, newbies to the music scene forming in 2012. Gaining new fans with their sound of indie electronic rock that night they will surely keep them because of the passion. Each member exudes it when they are on stage. A trait of the performance that makes music worth watching. This was starting to transform the night into what has long been lost in definition as a concert by transforming the music experience into a new level. Their record label, Fueled by Ramen, seem to have targeted their artists having deep passion as they perform; making the record label one to watch as the sign artists.
Misterwives added to the build up to the night amping up the crowd. This group’s carefree and fun spirits is contagious in the crowd. Group participation as Mandy Lee, lead singer, led the audience to snap along with them during songs was a communication all of its own between the artists on stage and the people taking it all in. The whole band is amazing. Front women Mandy is a vocal powerhouse. She is the full package when it comes to lead singers. Has the energy to rock the whole performance with their pop style, has a personality that keeps it entertaining to watch and spot on vocals. The ability to reach the back of the room with her voice from such a petite body but then would have people leaning in at the right times for the dynamics and drama. Watching each of her Misterwives look as she performed smiling they all feed off one another with a pure look. The talent they had paid off by the response from everyone.
At the end of the performance, I caught up with Mandy to share how incredible her powerhouse of a voice is. Giving me a huge hug she was bubbly with an amped up energy level. She replied humbly with a huge smile hearing that their performance was so well received by their potential new fan base in Rochester, NY. She was gracious to agree to with Andy DeLuca Photo making sure we caught it all live and putting this together for us to share:
Friday night they move to the Electric Factory where they will play with American Babies. The Biscuits will cap it all off Saturday night at the Mann Center with supporting acts Giorgio Moroder “the godfather of disco,” Orchard Lounge, and Risky Disco. The Biscuits always bring the heat to Philly so this is a weekend surely not to miss! Tickets to these shows can be found here and single day passes for the Mann center can be found here. Thursday and Friday night’s show start at 7pm. Doors are at 5pm for the Mann center, show starting at 6.