Category: Show Reviews

San Francisco Meets Ridgefield: Jefferson Starship, Jazz is Dead Celebrate Milestones In Special Show

More than one long, strange trip began along the San Francisco Bay in 1965. The spotlight this year had been on The Grateful Dead’s anniversary during the Fare Thee Well shows in Chicago but more recently the San Francisco sound was again celebrated at The Ridgefield Playhouse in Ridgefield, CT. Exactly 50 years after the founding of the Jefferson Airplane, the Jefferson Starship teamed up with Jazz is Dead and Quicksilver ‘Happy Trails’ to mark the occasion.

Jazz is Dead made a return this summer after a 10-year hiatus, prompted by the occasion of the Dead’s 50th anniversary. Though their set was only an hour long (since they were sharing it with two other incredible acts) it was enough for them to make a solid statement about their interpretation of the Grateful Dead. The set was led in by Tom Constanten, who played alongside Pigpen in the Grateful Dead on keys around 1968-1970 including the Woodstock festival, playing “Mountains of the Moon” on keyboard. Founding bassist Alphonso Johnson was also joined by Jeff Pevar (guitar), Rod Morgenstein (drums), and Chris Smith (keys). The sound of Jazz is Dead was unique; the performance wasn’t a straightforward cover of Dead songs but rather a well-polished, technically tight arrangement of the originals that made it almost their own to a degree. In “Sugaree,” for instance, reggae rhythms were built around the main ideas of the Grateful Dead’s version. It is true that Jazz is Dead is a cover band, though defining them as one after their set in Ridgefield seems far-fetched because their arrangements are so interesting and refreshing.

A shorter set was presented by Quicksilver ‘Happy Trails,’ a version of Quicksilver Messenger Service assembled for the occasion. Founding member of Quicksilver Messenger Service David Freiberg was joined by singer and wife Linda Imperial along with some fellow members of Jefferson Starship to recreate the sounds of the band. The set included a tribute to the late keyboard player Nicky Hopkins during a jam on “Edward, the Mad Shirt Grinder” and some psychedelic jams on the 50’s rock and roll inspired “Mona.”

Jefferson Starship isn’t in the same form as the times of “We Built This City.” Appropriately, they came back after a six-year hiatus in 1992 under the lead of Paul Kantner to honor the music of the band they were formed from. Playing songs of the Jefferson Airplane on the day of the 50th anniversary of that band’s founding was special, particularly for the choice of venue opposite the country from California. The Starship’s presence on stage was bold and cohesive – original members of the Airplane Paul Kantner and David Freiberg kept the sound true and original to the Airplane along with longtime Starship drummer Donny Baldwin, keyboardist Chris Smith and guitarist Jude Gold. The animated and exhuberant Cathy Richardson fulfilled the big-shoes role created by Grace Slick’s powerful vocals, to whom she gave a tip of the hat to near the end of the set. Together they made the performance feel engaging to the audience with down to earth, unscripted banter and humor between songs, which has been a consistency for the group through the past several years.

The Starship’s setlist wasn’t able to cover every fan favorite but included the staples like “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.” The other parts of the set were more treats than crowd pleasers. Gold took the room through the busy finger-picked guitar tune“Embryonic Journey” adding his own improvised licks to the instrumental song. “Wooden Ships,” which Kantner wrote along with Crosby, Stills and Nash, carried a similar feel to CSN’s performance but Kanter’s and Richardson’s vocal duets throughout the song soared in its own way. The encore of performance of “Volunteers” was straight-forward but not moot. More than just a favorite, it marked the peak of energy in the show with members of Jazz is Dead, Quicksilver, and some of the crew coming on stage to jam along; the audience taking to their feet.

Hiding in the dark of a concert is the sound engineer – the person who can make or break the sound and experience of a show yet often not in the limelight. This particular show, along with a few others where Jazz is Dead and Jefferson Starship are teaming up, was both hosted by and mixed by legendary sound engineer Dan Healy, most notable for his years working with the Grateful Dead and role in the development of the Wall of Sound system. “As real as it gets” is the only way to describe the sound. Aside from Healy’s ears at the controls, the experience of the early days of the Fillmore was captured with the Pig Light Show, a recreation of the types of psychedelic projections seen at those early shows.

Dan Healy at the soundboard

Overall, the evening felt more of a community than band/audience. The small and cozy theater delivered a much bigger sound than first expected and added to the anticipation already in the air over the conglomeration of musicians who had immense contributions to the 1960’s San Francisco sound. One thing is for sure: never miss one-of-a-kind shows that don’t come around often like this one.

Jefferson Starship Setlist: She Has Funny Cars, Crown of Creation, Today, Lather, Wooden Ships, White Rabbit, Eat Starch Mom, Embryonic Journey, Have You Seen the Saucers, Greasy Heart, The Ballad of You & Me & Pooneil, Somebody to Love

Encore: Somebody to Love

Jazz is Dead and Quicksilver ‘Happy Trails’
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Jefferson Starship
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August 23, 2015
SOiL with Powerman 5000 Take Fans on a Time Travel Trip

The summer evening had people out of their house on a Tuesday, July 7 and into the one of the local metal music stomping grounds, The Montage Music Hall. The driving factor to come out this night was SOiL, listed as the special guest of Powerman 5000. Although it was a Tuesday night, the walk through the venue doors became a gateway into the future and it became Friday night. The venue had all that was needed for a good time to take place by hosting the bands on the Powerman 5000 tour.

SOiL had brought in music lovers. The talk and chatter of people clearly interpreted a cohesive understanding that this band is a staple to go see live whenever they are on tour. SOiL played an important role to progress metal to the airwaves with hit singles. These songs became a part of mainstream radio from the 2001 Scars album release. That release included two songs that were included on the set list for the evening, “Halo” and “Redefine.”

Ryan McCombs vocals were on point; full throttle power seemingly came from somewhere deep within him. The venue was over taken by a full out sound blast filling every inch of the place. Indications of acceptance that the band was delivering were immediate. People moved in as close as they could to the stage, phones glowing, ready to grab a picture before bodies started moving. The energy of the crowd shifted as they were embraced with the sound waves; that was the moment that confirmed this was a show worth going to. It became an experience, not just a night out. As the metal groove was in full play, even the biggest bad ass was moving to the beat, showing giddy approval of what they were witnessing.

Bassist Tim King did his thing by keeping the crew together in the foundation core for both the harmony and rhythm. The band was one system, one body that fed off each other. As the bass and drums built the intensity, a pulse was alive and strong. Drummer Mitch Gable literally hit it. The combination of the two were a countdown for all systems and ready for take-off. The crowd felt the pulsating vibrations to their core with the bass and drums fully in check. Harmony streamed in from guitarist Adam Zadel’s skills for people to get their metal sway on.

The connection of all systems was completed when McCombs vocals took hold, containing passion and deep meaning, what serious metal music fans want to hear and see. He was at one with the microphone, the song, his boys and himself. People were connecting and were in the moment with the band in a unique moment of time. Ryan sang with a powerful roar that included perfect pitch, pure emotion and soul. Add in qualities of stage presence and a sense of deepness and he is unique, not just through his vocals or the rasp in the voice. He is the full package as the front-man.

Each of these guys bring to the stage the talent and coolness that are combined and meant to complement each of their skills. No wonder why these guys have sold over 1 million records worldwide.

It would be dismissive not to talk about Powerman 5000 (PM5K), who displayed a wild experience and definite change up to the metal hardcore that was on before them. Described as futuristic electronic metal, the confidence in their style and skill kept everyone engaged. Spider One connected immediately with the Rochester crowd by introducing an off-topic conversation. He asked and waited for answers regarding restaurants that are open and have food in Rochester. People started yelling back responses, “WindJammers!” and then a specific response “Pizza!” Spider’s response was that he would have loved that information earlier in the evening.

Powerman 5000 performed with a futuristic sound of rap with metal and an electronic edge mixed well with the green laser lights shooting from the drum sticks, guitars and not to mention the outfits that had everyone thinking they had traveled to a future time. The tour is supporting the release of the latest album Builders of the Future.

Unfortunately for Rochester, time travel from the Friday night vibe had to return to Tuesday as the show ended. Not one person left dissatisfied with their time travel trip.

August 19, 2015
Sublime with Rome Rocks Reggae Vibes at CMAC

Sublime with Rome at the beautiful Constellation Brands – Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC) Aug. 4, had a very laid back festival vibe going on. Intended or not, that was the feel for the night. And it was just fine.

There were guys and gals from the 20-something age bracket mostly. Flowers in their hair, some bearing bare feet, girls with hula hoops, tie dye and reggae nation shirts decorated the shiny happy people in the venue tonight. Everyone came together this warm yet cloudy summer evening to witness the vibes we know as Mickey Avalon, Pepper, Rebelution and Sublime with Rome.

Sublime with Rome

Pepper heated up the night like the hot tamales trio they are. Mixing things up with rock edge to their reggae, hip-hop sound they immediately hit the stage and got right into the tunes. The only request they had been for the sound guy: “Hey sound guy, this place is made of metal, turn up our bass” ordered front man Kaleo. That’s when their energetic upbeat flare came out and got the crowd going. People were singing along loud and proud. Which resulted in a some excitement, clapping along bopping around and when asked to jump around by the band, the crowd up in the front rows delightfully accommodated. With a tight-knit fast paced set, all in attendance were primed up and ready for more. The band members, a divine mix of fellas, two are from Hawaii and one from San Diego, California. They are now just based out of San Diego, Ca. They definitely seasoned the night with their good vibrations of beach hang tunes, and weekend party anthems. Pepper is: Kaleo Wassman– vocalist/guitarist, Bret Bollinger-vocalist/bassist drummer Yesod Williams. Pepper is still out in support of their 2013 sixth studio album, this one self- titled and released on their own record label Law Records.

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Rebelution comes cruising in from Isla Vista California. The band consists of Eric Rachmany – Guitars, vocals, Marley D. Williams – Bass, Rory Carey – Keyboards,Wesley Finley – Drums and two special guest touring members: Khris Royal – Sax, percussion, Zach Meyerowitz – Trumpet. They are out spreading the love and good vibrations in support of their current release Count Me In Remix EP

These guys came right out and went directly into the set with their signature uplifting rocking, world reggae sound, complete with a two-man brass section. It set the mood for their sway and sing-a-long set. A perfect warm summer breeze that came through completed the “beach” feel to a now full house under the shell, once someone announced for all who were on the lawn to come in due to sprinkles of rain that started during the Pepper set. One would think this would cause chaos, but there were a few seats to be filled. Actually, it worked out quite nicely because well,everyone one was in a peace and love mood while Rebelution sang ‘To blessed to be stressed’. Everyone came together to enjoy the night while beach balls and glow sticks were being tossed around, girls danced enchantingly with their hula hoops. An even cooler aspect to the set, there was a young girl and guy up on stage painting on a canvas while the band played. Rebelution played one song into the next which kept the flow of the night moving in the right direction. They seemingly could have played forever with the amazing energy they contained and the crowds response, neither side seemed like they would have minded if they played all night. Like most things though, it had to come to a beautiful end.

Sublime with Rome

If you want to hear what it sounds like to be blessed with no stress
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Pepper

Once the Sublime with Rome banner was set into place for their arrival. Some serious nostalgia and excitement took over the venue, when a euphoric cheer came about from the crowd. With a bat of the eye they all came out with a sharp set and kicked it off with the infamous single ‘Date Rape’from the Sublime 1992 debut album 40 oz. To Freedom with original front man Bradly Nowell, who passed in 1996 and is dearly missed.

The placed filled right up, fans were in every seat, filled every space and every aisle to come together for the show. Sublime with Rome ripped into a very fast-paced on point-set, all that came to see them we very much into it as everyone sang along to just about every song.

They played approximately 20 songs. Playing a lot of the Sublime hits, ‘Summertime’,” ‘Pawn Shop’, ‘Bad fish‘, and ‘Smoke two joints’. They sprinkled in a few Sublime with Rome songs ‘Same old situation’ from the debut album Yours Truly, with the new front man Rome. Where ever you go off the current release Sirens. They also managed to mix in a Led Zeppelin cover ‘Ramble on’ before taking a break to come back out of and do an encore with ‘Santeria’ and ‘What I got‘,” Rome called out “Rest in Peace Bradly Nowell!”

As it is known, there is a history with Sublime which is how Sublime with Rome came to be. The current members of Sublime with Rome are Rome Ramirez – lead vocals, guitar. Eric Wilson – bass, Josh Freese – drums, percussion. Eric Wilson an original member of Sublime, Rome came to be in 2009. Sublime had to legally change the name to Sublime with Rome due to trademark issues disputed by the Nowell estate. Sublime has toured on and off between albums since 2010. Regardless, it was clear to see Sublime songs and new songs by Sublime with Rome were graciously excepted by all. They keep the feeling and the Sublime spirit musically and tastefully alive.

Discover Sublime with Rome on:

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This evenings show with (Mickey Avalon) Pepper, Rebelution and Sublime with Rome felt like a mini vacation, from the fun-loving crowd that came to see the show, to the bands that came to play. It took you out of your life for a moment and created relaxing fun evening with a not-to-soon to forget atmosphere.

August 18, 2015
Twiddle’s Hometown Takeover in Burlington

Coming off the heels of an extensive summer tour which included a gig at Red Rocks and multiple festival appearances, Twiddle took its momentum home to Burlington Vermont for two shows. The quartet played a sunset two-set show at Burlington Waterfront’s Maritime Festival on Friday and a late night party at Higher Ground on Saturday evening. The Twiddle community has grown immensely over the past few years, and it was shown by attendance at both their shows out numbering fellow jam band moe.

Twiddle

Twiddle performed on Friday evening under a breathtaking sunset over Lake Champlain for Burlington’s Maritime Festival. The first of two sets featured an opener of the semi rare “Atlantic Mocean>BBQ>Atlantic Mocean” to get things started. The fan favorite “White Light” followed and featured an extensive jam, with the song clocking in at 19 minutes. “Latin Tang” was up next, and featured a plethora of sit-ins that included Russ Lawton (Soul Monde) on drums, Ray Paczkowski (Soul Monde) on keys, and Dave Grippo (Giant Country Horns) on saxophone. “Lost in the Cold” was played next and was no surprise to anyone, the band has played it 18 times since it was written by lead guitarist Mihali Savoulidis in early 2015. The lyrically inspiring “Hatti’s Jam -> When it Rains, it Pours” closed out the first set in perfect fashion. The jam heavy second set saw Twiddle play 4 songs. “Brick of Barley” opened and featured a great jam. “Gatsby the Great,” a song about keyboardist Ryan Dempsey’s college pet duck came next and showcased the jam of the night, and possibly the weekend. It included classic sandwich of Bela Fleck’s “Big Country” in the middle of the song. After the song ended, fans could be heard cheering “Frankenfoote” and the band responded by closing the set with a smoking version. The band returned for an encore of “Doinkinbonk!!!” before handing things off to moe. over at Higher Ground for their late night set.

Twiddle

The band took to Higher Ground on Saturday evening to play a late night show after moe.’s set at the Maritime Festival. The show opened with an electronic dance party, started by drummer Brook Jordan and dubbed “DJBJ” by Mihali as each remaining band member slowly trickled into the jam. “Mamunes The Faun” was up next, and contained a lengthy jam that was followed by instrumental “The Catapillar.” A cover of the reggae tune “Harder They Come” by Jimmy Cliff saw keyboardist Josh Dobbs sit in and finger the ivories. An excellent version of “Jamflowman” was up next and the set closed with “Bronze Fingers”. Already after midnight, nobody in attendance showed any signs of letting up, the band included. A fiery “Wasabi Eruption” opened the second set and segued into a 20 min version of “The Box,” that contained an amazing jam with a soaring guitar solo from Mihali. The serious song “Tiberius” was next, and was standard but welcomed. The band ended the second set with jammed out rendition of “Cabbage Face” and the slower, lyrical, “Amydst The Myst,” An encore of “Mad World” by British band Tears for Fears closed out a spectacular weekend of music.

Twiddle

Waterfront Park, Burlington, VT – 8.7.2015

Set 1: Atlantic Mocean > BBQ > Atlantic Mocean, White Light, Latin Tang[1], Lost in the Cold, Hatti’s Jam -> When it Rains, it Poors
Set 2: Brick of Barley, Gatsby The Great > Big Country > Gatsby The Great, Frankenfoote
Encore: Doinkinbonk!!!
[1] “Latin Tang” featured Russ Lawton (Soule Monde) on drums, Ray Paczkowski (Soule Monde) on keys and Dave Grippo on saxophone.

Higher Ground, Burlington, VT – 8.8.2015

Set 1: Mamunes the Faun, The Catapillar, Harder They Come[1], Jamflowman, Bronze Fingers
Set 2: Wasabi Eruption, The Box, Tiberius, Cabbage Face, Amydst the Myst
Encore: Mad World
[1] “Harder They Come” featured Josh Dobbs (Cats Under The Stairs) on keys

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August 18, 2015
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo – Love’s ‘Invincible’ Team

Growing up as a Generation X’er was a treat musically. The music of the time was an eclectic mix that allowed us to soak in a diverse appreciation of many styles. As the ’60s faded out, lyrics of the folk sound resonated in our minds while the ’70s and ’80s rock introduced us again to a heavier mix of instrumental solos. As disco came upon us we saw pop sounds interspersed with a mix of more dance oriented music from NYC, LA, Detroit, and the UK. Then as the large hair bands began to fade out, we were introduced to a whole new indie/grunge sound from the Seattle region. I think those that were raised during this time period feel an appreciation more so for music for some reason. The one thing that seems to hold true as you look at this era of music, those that performed then, are still going strong today and still touring to sold out shows all over the world. Included in this eclectic group were stand out musicians Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo.

They made music on stage and that chemistry extended into their personal lives as they took the ’80s by storm. Pat’s strong vocals paired with the fretting strings of Neil were beautiful music that took your gut and made you stand strong and tall. It’s no surprise that they are still going strong today both on and off stage.

Playing to a sold out crowd at The Turning Stone Casino Showroom, husband and wife duo Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo began the show with a video reel of their history together. I have to admit that this preface to the show gave me even more of an understanding and appreciation of their journey together.

Pat Benatar was a classically trained vocalist who began singing in grade school, and just never stopped. Making her mark on NYC in both the clubs and on/off-Broadway Benatar had a vision for what she wanted to achieve, and this vision held a strong musical partner. She needed someone who would hold their own beside her, as well as inspire her. After hearing Neil “Spyder” Giraldo, she knew that was the perfect match. Spyder was an established musician, writer, producer and had been playing with Rick Derringer band when they met. It was an “Invincible” pairing and together they were unstoppable as they created hit after hit.

Fast forward to today, after raising their two daughters, they have taken to the road again to share this magic once again with fans in their 35th Anniversary Tour. I can attest that the magic is still there, and their talent even more refined and fine tuned. They had the crowd at hello as they sang all of my personal favorites and some unexpected covers. As a teenager in the 80’s, the look and stage presence of Pat Benatar was larger than life. Even though many emulated her look, it was her strength that hooked me. As a female rocker in the 80’s Benatar proved to everyone women could be fierce and sexy at the same time. No more Stepford wives ladies, we were going to break that image wide open and take control of our lives. Pat Benatar knew exactly what she wanted to accomplish, had the vision, had the perfect partner to share that vision with, and in turn we have been blessed to be on the receiving end of her journey.

Pat Benatar/Neil Girlado Set List: Shadows of the Night; All Fired Up; Invincible; We Live for Love; One Love; Precious Time; Strawberry Wine; Promises In The Dark; We Belong; Hell Is for Children; You Better Run (The Young Rascals cover); Hit Me With Your Best Shot; Love Is a Battlefield;

Encore: Everybody Lay Down; Let’s Stay Together; Heartbreaker / Ring of Fire/Seven Nation /Godfather Theme

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August 14, 2015
Slipknot’s Summer’s Last Stand Tour at Darien Lake

On Wednesday July 29 nothing could prepare the town of Corfu for what was about to be unleashed. Slipknots “Summers Last Stand” tour made a stop at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center and they brought some of their friends.

First up was the Gothic American metal band Motionless in White. The Scranton, PA natives opened up the evening with “Break the Cycle” off of their new album Reincarnate. They continued through a high energy set treating fans to a variety of tracks such as “Abigail,” “Unstoppable” and the title track “Reincarnate.”

Next up, veteran Welsh metal titans, Bullet For My Valentine. Currently on tour in support of their new album Venom, they took the stage opening with “No Way Out.” For fans of metal acts like Metallica and Iron Maiden, this is the band to see – especially the essential track “Your Betrayal.”

They continued to keep the crowd pumped up and excited ending their set with “Tears Don’t Fall” and the mega favorite “Waking The Demon.” I can honestly say that for a band I have not paid much attention to before, after catching their performance, they are on my radar. I am looking forward to listen to more of their music and seeing them live again.

From the deep dark recesses of Richmond, Virginia something wicked and powerful creeped onto the stage; they call themselves Lamb of God! From the moment the band took the stage, they started the frenzy with their hit “Walk with Me in Hell.” Front man Randy Blythe took a moment to honor our country’s fallen military heroes before ripping into their classic “Now You Got Something To Die For,” which criticizes our governments ill gains through war. Lamb of God is currently on tour in support of their newest release VII: Sturm und Drang. They treated fans to “Still Echos” and “512.” This is one band that does NOT disappoint their fans. I have seen them more times than I can count and they are truly a testament to the profession. They ended their set on a heavy note with two of my personal favorites: “Laid to Rest” and “Redneck.” Then, the sweat soaked musicians took their bows and said, “until next time.”

The stage goes dark, you can hear fans chanting, growing restless, getting louder and louder as each moment passes. Faintly at first, then a little louder a voice from the PA system is saying “With my face against the floor, I can’t see who knocked me out, out of the way.” Oh yeah… it’s Slipknot’s killer intro! The curtain drops, the stage explodes and Slipknot, in full force, starts right in with what feels like a punch to the gut also known as “Sarcastrophe!” The band is in top form. They don’t take a break from the heavy bass laden assault ripping right into “The Heretic Anthem” and “Psychosocial.” Front man Corey Taylor only pauses for a second to ask the masses if they want to “hear a new song with an old school feel to it?” The crowd roared with approval as the band keyed up “AOV” off their new album, The Gray Chapter. It felt like the entire crowd sang along to the hit “Before I Forget” off the band’s Vol.3 the Subliminal Versus. I have been going to Slipknot shows since their early days and they are consistently high energy and always discover unique ways to engage the audience in the madness.

During their performance of their mega hit from their debut album Spit It Out percussionist Shawn Crahan (aka Clown) snuck into the audience undetected and emerged by the soundboard where he dumped one of the garbage cans on himself and terrorized fans. While clown was busy making a mess, Corey Taylor encouraged the crowd to get down and when the song crescendos to jump up and sing along. The band took a brief break before storming back on stage and finishing out the evening of metal and mayhem with “People=Shit” and “Surfacing”. Although the tour is titled “Summers Last Stand,” Slipknot proves once again that this is not heavy metal’s last stand and that it is here to stay!

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August 14, 2015
Coal Chamber, Fear Factory, Jasta Wreck The Water Street Music Hall In Rochester

So I finally made it to a metal show at Rochester’s Water Street Music Hall. Why the long wait? Because there is lots of venues in New York State that I have to cover and yet to visit. And this one took me a while, and one thing that the city of Rochester has going for itself….they have three very high profile venues for metal music. The Main Street Armory, The Montage, and Water Street Music Hall. Main Street being the largest, with the Montage being the smallest, Water Street falls right in the middle and likely have the biggest advantage of booking shows at this point. And let me say that other than the parking situation there, the venue is dynamite. Decent sized stage, clear sound, large bar area, balcony, etc., really nothing not to like about the place. And when you add bands like Coal Chamber, Fear Factory, and Jasta under that roof, magic happens.

I arrived in time to see openers Madlife’s set. The Los Angeles based industrial metallers were received well by the crowd (it was early so at this point the venue was not packed yet) and delivered a high energy set. They had a very goth-like image to them with a sound similar to Orgy. The big highlight from them was their cover of “Love Song” by The Cure as well as a cameo from Burton C. Bell of Fear Factory.

After Madlife, Jasta swept the entire floor with their explosive set that knocked (literally) everyone on their asses. Seeing Jasta was a real treat because he is usually so busy with Hatebreed, he rarely tours as his solo outfit. Jamey Jasta was already in familiar territory, having toured through Rochester and the rest of Upstate New York many times, had already won the crowd over before he even stepped on stage. And it was his time to shine to show off his vocal skills that he normally doesn’t use with Hatebreed. The set consisted of mostly his solo album including “Screams From The Sanctuary” and “The Fearless Must Endure.” His band was real talented (consisting of Steve Gibb, Charlie Bellmore, Chris Beaudette, and Nick Bellmore) gave them all a proper introduction towards the end of their set. The crowd opened the pit up to add to the crazy atmosphere that was brewing, and Jasta gave the fans a real treat by playing “Buried In Black” from Kingdom Of Sorrow’s first album and closing their set with Hatebreed’s anthem “I Will Be Heard.” I believe Jasta should try to find more time to tour because they certainly left the crowd something to remember.

When Fear Factory graced the stage, they wasted no time what so ever. It was down to business, pedal to the metal as they unleashed two songs off Obsolete “Shock” and “Edge Crusher” which is the clear recipe to ignite a crowd. Vocalist Burton C. Bell sounds as brutal and vital as he has been for years, Guitarist Dino Cazares has a very likable stage presence and still has one of the most clutch hands to ever strike an electrical guitar. And now with bassist Tony Campos (ex Static-X, Soulfly, etc.) in the fold, Fear Factory has a new chemistry on stage that the crowd really dug. With the new album Genexus out, it was only appropriate that they played songs off that album, and the songs they decided to play “Soul Hacker” and “Dielectric.” The crowd never stopped moving and security certainly had their hands full as well. Although it was a short eight song set, Fear Factory did right by closing with two songs off Demanufacture including the title track, and finishing with “Replica.” Fear Factory arguably, was the best damn band of the night. Period.

Coal Chamber stormed on stage late into the night. Although a great fast pace set, The Nu Metal legends only played for 45 minutes. Tickets were really cheap so overall I felt I got my moneys worth, I just feel that more songs from their catalog should have been played. Nothing from their second album Chamber Music either. But still played some solid tunes such as their famous opener “Loco,” “Big Truck,” “Fiend,” and a couple off their latest record Rivals that they’re currently promoting. Frontman Dez Fafara at his age still has a fierce voice and a powerful stage presence, however, I have been on the record stating before, drummer Mikey Cox is an absolute wrecking machine behind the kit. It’s not very often the drummer of any band performs their balls off, runs like machine, and still be so precise. The crowd went bananas…and the bodies that were getting thrown out of the venue by security started piling up very heavily when Coal Chamber was on stage. Coal Chambers production was the best from any of the bands that night, with their giant monitors on display and spectacular lighting really makes them a treat to go see. They ended their night appropriately with “Sway.” No encore. Dez Fafara had some choice words before their last song. He’s very anti encore and told the audience that encores are “bull shit” and a waste of time and that if a band is making you wait for another song you want to hear that you should walk away. Personally, the way I feel about it….it’s nice to get a head start on traffic.

In conclusion, it was overall a fantastic night for fans to rejoice 90s metal. It was a damn shame that all the bands didn’t play longer sets.

August 13, 2015
Deftones And Incubus Rock Darien Lake

On Sunday, August 2, Darien Lake Performing Arts Center was once again host to another great summer tour. The show was the co-headlining tour with the Deftones and Incubus. With a late start time, concert goers had plenty of time to enjoy the nice day and it’s safe to assume many of those people spent it inside the theme park.

Shortly after 5 p.m., the parking lot to the theme park was a sea of cars and the concert parking was already getting filled. The time for doors was delayed for a short period of time while the stage crew scrambled to get the production all set for the show. Once the doors opened, the opening band called The Bots took the stage. It’s not often that a “band” consists of just two members but that’s what The Bots are. The duo is formed by brothers Mikaiah Lei and Anaiah Lei who are from Los Angeles. These youngsters didn’t care if the seats were filled inside or not because they absolutely rocked it. Their “garage punk” style is one that will most likely take them on many more tours in the near future.

After a short stage tear-down the Deftones were next to take the stage. It was a mystery before the show who would close the night out because it could have easily been either the Deftones or Incubus. Opening their set with “Diamond Eyes,” off their 2010 release Diamond Eyes, the Deftones set the vibe for the rest of the show. There’s not many bands that have a distinct sound like the Deftones do. From the slow, chunky, low toned riffs of Stephen Carpenter to the melodic vocals and screams of Chino Moreno, it’s easy to identify the Deftones.

The band mixed up their set throughout the night playing songs off of seven different albums. It was a great mix of music jumping around from their oldest to their “newest” material. The reason for newest being in quotations is that the Deftones have a new album coming out in September. As of right now, there’s not album title but the rest of the album is completed. New material off this upcoming album was not played at all but that didn’t come as a surprise, as Chino made it clear recently that fans wouldn’t be hearing anything new on this tour. The crowd was certainly mixed with fans of both the Deftones and Incubus, but the Deftones were welcomed by everyone. From the girl in the front row screaming, “Chino, I love you”, to the back of the seats where a group held up a flag with the album White Pony, the Deftones got everyone’s support.

After a set that seemed to end too soon for Deftones fans, Incubus shortly came on afterwards. The band wasted no time at all and started the set off with hit after hit. Opening with “Wish You Were Here,” then going into “Anna Molly” and “Circles,” Incubus was running on all cylinders the entire night. The stage was backed with a giant curved LED screen with one on top of the stage as well. To go along with the screens, Incubus had an outstanding light show that set a great vibe for their set. Like the Deftones, Incubus also chose to vary up their setlist with songs throughout their music catalog. Fans got to hear songs from A Crow Left of the Murder…, Morning View, Trust Fall (Side A), Light Grenades, Make Yourself and others as well. The band sounded spot on and singer Brandon Boyd led the band through a solid 17 song setlist. The show was ended with a three song encore featuring “Dig,” “Drive” and “A Crow Left of the Murder” which featured a special Beatles closing.

The Deftones/Incubus tour runs until the end of August. Click here to check out the list of those dates. Note that the last show with the Deftones and Incubus together is on August 30th, at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, CA.

Deftones Setlist: Diamond Eyes, My Own Summer (Shove It), Lhabia, Beware, Bloody Cape, Sextape, You’ve Seen the Butcher, Rocket Skates, Tempest, Swerve City, Knife Prty, Digital Bath, Change (In the House of Flies), Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away), Headup, Birthmark, Engine No. 9

Incubus Setlist: Wish You Were Here, Anna Molly, Circles, Absolution Calling, Are You In?, Vitamin, Trust Fall, In the Company of Wolves, Nice to Know You, Here in My Room, Sick Sad Little World, Pardon Me, Make Out Party, Megalomaniac, Dig, Drive, A Crow Left of the Murder

August 12, 2015
Amy Helm and Dr. John and the Nite Trippers at Central Park Summerstage

Nestled in a wooded area of NYC’s Central Park in the area of East 70th St., Rumsey Playfield has played host as one of the City Parks Foundation’s Summerstage venues in the series’ 30th season in 2015. Recently on a bright summer afternoon with plenty of shade at Rumsey Playfield, the Summerstage series welcomed a fantastically paired bill of Amy Helm and Dr. John & The Nite Trippers.

The free show (some Summerstage shows are free, others ticketed) drew in a generationally diverse crowd, surprisingly so for the styles of music on stage. The music proved timeless with older folks grooving along to Dr. John’s signature New Orleans sound just as much as the younger folks were off their smart phones, diving into the music as well.

For Amy Helm and her band, this show was a sort of respite back home after being on the road for a while. The Woodstock native played a mix of cover songs and material off of her debut album, Didn’t It Rain. Her glowing presence on stage wasn’t complete without the presence of her late father, Levon Helm, his first name branded on her guitar strap in small letters between the larger letters of the last name they both share.

NYC may be some 1,300 miles away from New Orleans and void of beignets and baked ham sandwiches from Mother’s, but when Dr. John took the stage in his suit and colorfully decorated hat it seemed like a small piece of the French Quarter took over the nook of Central Park. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member and New Orleans native boasted a cool confidence in his performance while backed by a talented band, each member entwining their talent for a wholesome show.

The Summerstage Series continues throughout NYC’s five boroughs through the first week of August with some remarkable acts yet to come. Check out their full schedule here.

Amy Helm Setlist

Didn’t It Rain, Roll Away, Rescue Me, Roll The Stone, Gentling Me, Atlantic City (Springsteen Cover), Deep Water, When the Battle is Over (Aretha Franklin cover), Slippin’ and Slidin’ (Little Richard cover), Meet Me in the Morning (Bob Dylan cover), Gloryland, Good News (Sam Cooke cover)

Dr. John & The Nite Trippers Setlist

Croaker Courtbullion, Iko Iko, Mardi Gras Day, Eleggua, Monkey Speaks, Going Back to New Orleans, Big Shot, Splinters, Right Place, Mama & Papa, Wonderful World, Mac the Knife, Do You Call the Buddy, Old Settlers, Goodnight Irene, Black Widow Spider, Big Chief

Amy Helm

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Dr. John & The Nite Trippers

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August 12, 2015
Celebrating the Kings of Blues with Joe Bonamassa

Joe Bonamassa has been playing guitar seemingly since the day he was born. In fact I first saw Joey B play when we were both prepubescent growing up in Upstate New York’s Mohawk Valley. Even then he had a natural knack for the blues. There is no real explanation for his innate emotional response to a genre so filled with passion, heartache, pureness, and an ability to make people both remember and forget the shit happening in their own world. Perhaps someone sold their soul at the Robert Johnson’s Crossroads to become the greatest blues guitarist of this generation and they were reincarnated in this young kid from “the city that God forgot.”

On this particular evening JB played tribute to the three Kings of the blues, Freddie, Albert, and B.B. Starting out with six Freddie King numbers including a Bonamassa favorites, “Going Down” and “See See Baby”.

It was a cool night and the amphitheater that was recently voted the #1 outdoor venue by USA Today was as full as I could have ever imagined for a blues performance with no openers. Though Joe Bonamassa is possibly one of the best marketing minds in the music industry and chose a Monday night in Saratoga, in August. For those that don’t know, August in Saratoga means track season, the thoroughbred horse track is a major attraction and Tuesdays the track is closed. Therefore Monday night IS the weekend night where people can let loose and sleep in the next day. Even though the show ended at 10pm, it was a smart move on the tour’s part.

After Freddie’s set, JB and company focused on Albert King, playing one of my favorites “Cadillac Assembly Line” and “Angel of Mercy” that was cause for a standing ovation of nearly every one of the 4000+ in attendance. After the ovation Joe took the time to introduce his band, and if you’ve ever been to one of his shows he always brings along an all-star cast. The SPAC show was no exception. Anton Fig was up on the kit, and has played with JB before. At least on one occasion in 2009, Eric Clapton joined Bonamassa and Fig onstage to sit in. The Saratoga crowd also had the pleasure of hearing the amazing Reese Wyans on the black and whites. Reese was recently inducted into the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame from his time with Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble. Mahalia Barnes was one of the three backup singers for the evening, and Syracuse locals, Paulie Cerra and Lee Thornberg were joined by Nick Lane to round out the horn section.

The night went from Albert King to B.B. King. Starting out with “Let the Good Times Roll” the over 50 crowd were dancing in the aisles, in their seats, or even up on the lawn in the light drizzling rain that cooled the air to make for a very comfortable night in August. Highlights of B.B.’s set were an Anton Fig solo, and Bonamassa’s incredible rendition of the black spiritual “Ole Time Religion”.

The night ended after two solid hours of inspired music with a three set encore of the Kings’ most notable tunes. Freddie’s “Hideaway”, Albert’s “Born Under a Bad Sign”, and B.B.’s version of the Roy Hawkins song, “The Thrill Is Gone”.

As people filed out to their cars to go home, there was that emotional aura in the air that only a live concert can conjure. People were smiling, couples were walking arm in arm, there was a little spring to the step of even the oldest fans. While the blues can be heartfelt and convey a message of hard times, it can also give people hope that tomorrow will be a better day. Bonamassa gave people a gift, a rare look at three legends, on his own path to become a legend in the blues community. Filling a venue as large as SPAC less than a year from playing Albany’s Palace Theater, a short distance away, shows the dedicated following Joe Bonamassa has amassed over the years. While Joe might not be a King of the blues, because honestly Joe King wouldn’t work, he is definitely a prince of the genre that he fell in love with over three decades ago.

August 12, 2015