Category: Jam/Progressive

Buffalove Music Festival 2016: Photo Gallery

Buffalove Music Festival, held in Westfield, NY July 29-31, 2016 was another huge success, with incredible performances all around. The new location for the fourth year festival had the benefit of shaded camping, perfect for a late summer festival.

Boss Tweed and the Carpetbaggers (Mike Gantzer, Evan McPhaden, and Nick Sonricker) wearing Mexican wrestling masks, cut off jeans, and no shirts, with Evan destroying a watermelon on stage, much to the delight of the fans. David Loss later joined this now-original Aqueous lineup, but not before being encouraged to shed his shirt and shred with them.

AquaFlow (Aqueous and Funktional Flow members) combined for another memorable set, while Broccoli Samurai, Consider the Source, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, EOTO, Formula 5 and Mister F performed their usual firebrand sets for the 716 crowd, while Jimkata had an exceptional amount of smiles in the crowd during their set.

For another year of Buffalove, a small fest for the thriving Western New York jamband fans, the great weather added to the weekend’s vibe, as did meeting up with old friends and new, including plenty of AQuaintances who packed the stage for every Aqueous set throughout the weekend.

This photo gallery is dedicated to Keith Rahaim. May he rest in peace.

September 4, 2016
Hearing Aide: Earphorik “The Boondock Sessions”

Midwestern quartet Earphorik delivers their sophomore album, The Boondock Sessions with a recognizable “live show” sound. Their signature smorgasbord of musical influences are brought to life throughout the one-take recording which was mixed and produced by none other than Jake Cinninger (Umphrey’s McGee) and Jim Leep at Boondock Studios.

From the earliest notes of the album, “The Great Break” creates a slow build reminiscent of Pink Floyd’s “Speak to Me/Breathe” which greets the listener with intrigue and excitement for what’s to come. The opening track teeters on the edge of twelve minutes of genre explorations and highlights everything from funk to jam with a touch of ska. In the second track “Root One,” Austin Robinson (guitar/vocals) and Chris Treesh (guitar/vocals) sing the lyrics “Love it ’til you want it some more” and where the first ‘root’ song of the album ends another begins with “Root Too.” As the first instrumental track of the album, “Root Too” initially focuses on Nolan Opper (bass) and Ryan Moreno (drums) and their tag team bass-drum introduction. Earphorik fans new and old will dive right into this track as Jake Cinninger, normally melting faces with his stellar guitar magic, takes to the organ and adds that extra “umph” that the song needed.

“Flush” clocks in as the longest song of the album and delivers a gritty, dark and raging jam that could lead to some serious head banging and onstage instrument dismantling during a live performance. Walls have oddly become an important topic for a certain politician party over the past several months, and “Over the Walls” reminds us that, “We just can’t seem to get this under control.” Cinninger reprises his role on keys for this track, making it one of the more sought after pieces on the album for a first time Earphorik listener. “Drift” which is heavily reggae influenced unexpectedly leads to “Kerputley,” which sounds like an entirely different genre, but spares no quality of talent.

The instrumental conclusion to The Boondock Sessions, “Ashrob I” and “II” delivers the sonic exclamation point that many jam rock albums attempt to achieve. Each member of the band gets their time to shine during the closing tracks as they once again showcase their diversity and bring something to the table for everyone. This album is as eclectic as Forrest Gump’s work resume and similar to a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.

Key Tracks: The Great Break, Drift, Root Too

September 1, 2016
The LOCKN’ Report: Day 4

Friday night Phish served up an incredible show at LOCKN’ that looked like game, set, match for the Jam ‘Lympics. Saturday, My Morning Jacket volleyed back a set for the ages, with an almost unmatchable rock tour de force. Would Phish be able to continue the rally? In short: Yes!

The first set opened energetically with “Sample in a Jar,” “Martian Monster” and “Axilla.” With few exceptions, the set continued to build in intensity. “AC/DC Bag,” “Possum” and “46 Days” each got about as thrashing a treatment as they’ve ever been given, nearly matching the energy exhibited by My Morning Jacket the night prior. A mid-set “Fuck Your Face” was thrown in to drive the point home (“And this guitar is gonna fuck your face `cause it knows how to scream!”) if it weren’t received loud and clear already. A closing rendition of “First Tube” put an exclamation point or two on one of the most pure-rock-energy Phish sets you will hear. Before exiting the stage, Trey Anastasio held his guitar up ceremoniously, like a sacrificial offering to the Gods of rock. And lo, they were satisfied.

With that off of their chest, the band was free to close out the 4th edition of LOCKN’, Phish style. They continued more along the lines of the brilliant explorations from their show on Friday night. As on Friday, this set flowed together almost seamlessly, no breaks, no banter, just wall-to-wall improvisational mastery. Amongst a set with literally no lulls or duds, a mid-set “Twist” > “Light” combo stood high above the rest. The “Twist” evolved into a jam that saw the entire band locked in to an almost dizzying array of sound that seemed to end too soon. But it didn’t, because the “Light” that followed somehow reached deeper, soared higher and was debatably better even that Friday’s “Ghost.” They still had solid versions of “Tweezer” and it’s most-welcome partner “Tweezer Reprise,” “2001,” “Harry Hood” and one last rocker in Led Zeppelin’s “No Quarter” left in them before ending LOCKN’ with The Rolling Stones’ “Lovin Cup.” The PA blasted another Stones classic, the geographically-appropriate “Sweet Virginia,” as they festival-goers walked off the concert field for the final time of the weekend.

The day began twelve hours earlier with Hampton Road’s The Dharma Initiative and their grooving rock that swirled with flourishing keys and vocals. Doobie Decimal System, featuring Jason Crosby, Roger McNamee, Pete Sears and Jay Lane played a fun early afternoon set heavy on familiar covers like “Being For the Benefit of Mr. Kite” and “Ohio.” Twiddle returned for their second day to bring more blended jams and bopping energy. They were certainly one of the better bands at connecting the spaces between bands, both in and out of their set.

Reggae made appearances throughout the festival, whether in My Morning Jacket’s cover of “Could You Be Loved” or as an influence heard throughout Twiddle’s music. But when The Wailers took the stage, they showcased reggae in it’s purest form. Their set played like a greatest hits collection, “Get Up Stand Up,” “Natural Mystic,” “Buffalo Soldier,” “Three Little Birds,” “Lively Up Yourself,” “Exodus,” and on and on. It was all smiles under the beaming Virginia sun as fans twirled and bobbed in the midday heat.

Chris Robinson Brotherhood’s set started conservatively, with takes on “Let’s Go Let’s Go Let’s Go” and “Leave My Guitar Alone.” They continued to loosen the reins as they progressed, ending with some lengthy and rocking jams on a closing run of Bob Dylan’s “It’s All Over Now Baby Blue,” “Vibration and Light Suite” and “Narcissus Soaking Wet.” In their loosest state, they wear their Grateful Dead influence on their sleeves. Their sets will generally contain some Dead covers even, but not on this day. Which was fine, because after a short break, the stage was reconfigured and they would become the backing band for Phil Lesh.

Lesh‘s second set of the weekend would include a bit more traditional instrumentation than the first, and appropriately with a band that took pride in it’s Dead influence. Chris Robinson even came prepared in his Jerry Garcia t-shirt. After an opening warm-up with “Samson and Delilah,” the band played a bluesy one-two punch of “Good Morning Little Schoolgirl” and “Wang Dang Doodle” in order to showcase the talents of special guest guitarist Gary Clark Jr. After he left, they proceeded into a set-highlighting version of “Hard to Handle” that was both right in Robinson’s wheelhouse as a frontman as well as a great vehicle for some classic Dead jams. “St. Stephen” and a slightly rejiggered “The Wheel” featured more superb playing throughout before they closed their set with “Turn On Your Lovelight.”

The Jam ‘Lympics rightly concentrates on team efforts, though one individual needs to be recognized here. Neal Casal played in four sets over the weekend. As a member of his own Circles Around the Sun, Hard Working Americans, Chris Robinson Brotherhood and finally in Lesh’s band, his lead guitar was a central and dominating force in every instance. Truly deserving of standing on the podium to receive an individual medal.

Gary Clark Jr. finished up the daytime portion of the last day of LOCKN’. After his first solo it was clear he was holding back something during his sit-in with Lesh. He is an enormous talent on the guitar and showcased both his playing and songwriting prowess throughout a set of mostly originals like “Bright Lights,” the soulful “Cold Blooded,” and rocking “When My Train Pulls In.” Despite his skills, amongst the other acts of the weekend, this one fell a little flat as a one-sided effort. His backing band took a bit too much of a backseat with repetitive rhythms resulting in songs feeling worn and dragged out.

About the biggest surprise of the weekend was the lack of surprises. With few exceptions, bands were content to play their own sets without inviting any of the many other musicians on stage for something out of the ordinary. That said, each band seemed to be inspired by the others on the bill, and put forth gargantuan efforts. So many bands played to the top, or nearly so, of their capabilities. Just as athletes push themselves to their limits amongst the best-of-the-best, so too did these musicians. LOCKN’ put the music front and center with almost every decision. The sound system was incredible. The rotating stage was a wonder and allowed for a nearly seamless day of music. It didn’t always work perfectly as some of the bands weren’t quite ready to take the stage on time and the sound had a bit of a hiccup on the changeover. Though the fact that you could ever time a band’s exit with the next band’s entrance is somewhat incredible, and it worked more often than not. Late night and late morning options (including a near-mythical stage set in the middle of the woods) gave fans the opportunity to see music with no downtime for over 16 hours of each day. As some are calling for the festival bubble to burst, LOCKN’ has found a niche in the crowded market that sets itself apart. If they continue to concentrate on the quality and experience of the music, it could be viable for a long time to come.

September 1, 2016
The LOCKN’ Report: Day 3

The Jam ‘Lympics brought out the best in bands on day 3 at LOCKN’. ‘A’ games ruled the day.

In the early going, Moon Taxi? quickly became Moon Taxi! as the Nashville band quickly won over the early afternoon crowd with their Southern rock inflected jams, with highlights being an “All Along the Watchtower” cover and set-closing “All Day All Night” and it’s soaring guitars big rock finish.

Vermont jammers Twiddle spun around the stage next, opening with a lengthy take on “Polluted Beauty” that brought out influences from many jam band mavens before them. Keller Williams came out to lend a hand on “Best Feeling” which ended with a jam on Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”. The set ended as it began, with a drawn out version of “Jamflowman” which opened groovily but ended in a flurry of explosive guitar rock (which would continue to be a theme on this day).

Stanton Moore picked up nicely on the departing sounds and brought in Galactic with a flourish of drums before the rest of the band joined in. New Orleans native Erica Falls joined the band throughout the set to pick up the vocal duties on songs like “Hey Na Na” and “There’s Something Wrong With This Picture.” The real highlights of the set came when harmonica giant, Lee Oskar, of War fame, came out to add a little more funk muscle for takes on “Slipping Into Darkness,” “Like a Rolling Stone” and nearly half the set overall.

Hard Working Americans brought their rough and tumble barroom rock attitude next. They weren’t going to win on style points, but were trying to crushing it on raw rock power alone. Dave Schools and Duane Trucks provided the engine while Neal Casal’s guitar and Jesse Aycock’s lap steel twist around each other. Lead man Todd Snider lead them through incredible versions of “Stomp and Holler,” “Dope is Dope,” and “Something Else.” With Phil Lesh’s set delayed the band extended their set, Todd Snider taking over with some spoken word ramblings while the band rocked out behind him, building yet another rocking finish. “The answer my friend is blowing in the wind. Well I listened to the wind and it didn’t tell me a fucking thing, so much for folk music,” Snider quipped, like a true rockstar.

The rotating stage and interlocking sets concept didn’t quite work so well for most of the day, including a break of over 30 minutes while Phil Lesh got his friends ready to go. It certainly was a lot of musicians to coordinate. But Phil Lesh is the ultimate coach, and what seemed to be a bizarre collection of players, Lesh knew it would work. With Page McConnell, Jon Fishman, Joe Russo, Anders Osborne and the Infamous Stringdusters it was essentially a LOCKN’ All-Stars. The set took advantage of the players, mixing some bluegrassy tunes like “Dire Wolf” and “Rosalee McFall,” with more stretched out versions of “Uncle John’s Band” and “Scarlet Begonias.” Russo kept the gangly band tight together while McConnell provided an enormous and impressive groundwork for the others to launch from. Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi joined the group for takes on “Mr. Charlie” and “Sugaree,” which saw Trucks and Jeremy Garret weave solos together that was brilliantly unexpected. Leave it to a coaching genius like Lesh to see the potential of the the fiddle and slide guitar to sound so good in that spot.

The Tedeschi Trucks Band left it all on the field for LOCKN’ with a stellar performance. The 12-strong band beat out even Lesh’s assemblance in total manpower. The set ranged from straight blues, classic rock, New Orleans jazz, fusion and soul, and they stuck the landing from every angle. Trucks assumed control of the band throughout the night, taking solo after relentless solo, showcasing his talent in all its magnificent glory. The set consisted almost entirely of covers, including “Within You Without You” (Beatles), “Keep On Growing” (Derek and the Dominos), “Had to Cry Today” (Blind Faith), and “Bitches Brew” (Miles Davis). But the highlight of the set was when all the diverse influences came together for their closing rendition of their own “Let Me Get By,” yet another big rock finish.

Many fans dread a band’s “festival set” due to their generally truncated nature and their tendency to lean heavily on the hits. My Morning Jacket operates in exactly the opposite direction. Their festival sets are something to seek out and look forward to, and their first LOCKN’ appearance was no exception.

My Morning Jacket declared victory with their set opening “Victory Dance.” The bar had been set high by what had come before them. But they set the bar higher, and then vaulted over it with relative ease. An early set “Off The Record” set the scene properly. There had been a lot of rocking on the stage during the day, but none quite as coordinated and ferocious as that. Throughout the set the band would take songs further and deeper than usual, and focused on the songs that could do so. “Steam Engine” got dragged out into a powerful sax lead jam, while “Phone Went West” found a melodic run and built it into a blistering rocker. Every single song in the set seemed to end with the aforementioned big rock finish, the energy reached a point that just could not be topped so they just kept pushing it back to the top. They played tribute to Bob Marley (“Could You Be Loved”), Prince (“Purple Rain”), David Bowie (“Rebel Rebel”) and the world on the whole with a surprisingly fun and rocking “What the World Needs Now.” When “One Big Holiday” reared it’s head, it became clear the energy couldn’t be sustained any longer, and the set came to a close after over 2 hours of relentless rock genius.

Sunday’s artists will need to watch out for splinters after that stage shredding that took place on the penultimate day of LOCKN’.

August 28, 2016
The LOCKN’ Report: Day 2

Friday the Jam ‘Lympics at LOCKN’ swung into full effect with it’s first full day of music. In fact, from the opening notes of Upstate New York’s own Donna the Buffalo at 11am at the Blue Ridge Bowl, until Joe Russo’s Almost Dead closed out the night at the same venue well after 3am, there was live music to be heard for over 16 straight uninterrupted hours. As any veteran of the festival scene will tell you, it’s a marathon and not a sprint.

Jam titans Phish closed out a long day at the main stage with a rare non-native festival appearance. After shaking off some early dust through opening takes of “Wilson” and “Down with Disease” the band proceeded to flex their muscles, showing why they are favorites to lead in the medal count at week’s end. Mike Gordon played the part of anchor in their version of the 4×100 relay, pushing and pulling the jams into deeper and funkier spaces throughout the first set. “Wolfman’s Brother” developed into an extended “Sneaking Sally”-esque jam, while the “It’s Ice” interlude grooved extra hard. The words said “falling on the ice” but the execution said, nailed the triple axle.

The second set featured highlight jam after highlight jam, including a crowning jewel of a “Ghost” that had the entire Phish team jelling in ways they haven’t quite yet in 2016. It contained multiple segments, deep pocketed groove, ethereal noodling, raging rock anthem. It segued perfectly into “Bathtub Gin,” which was just another vessel to be navigated into improvisation waters. And the rapids were still raging, and they pushed through it masterfully.

In order to get their proper stage set up, Phish was the only band to not utilize the rotating stage, shunning the seamless set concept with a 1 hour break. But in keeping with the LOCKN’ spirit, their show featured an almost seamless run of songs, with many noteworthy segues and nary a quiet moment, with no inter-song banter whatsoever. Just more wall-to-wall music.

As the fans trudged off the main field following the final rings of the “Character Zero” encore, the main stage laid silent for the first time in 12 hours. Moogatu, Turkuaz and Vulfpeck got the day started off, each hosting their own little dance party. Vulfpeck followed up Thursday night’s preliminary round set with a cover-heavy set, again featuring Antwaun Stanley on vocals. After they played “Game Winner” it was clear they had earned a medal. Joe Dart again showed off his acrobatic skill, performing a handstand for the entire rotation of the stage as their set came to a close.

Austin rockers White Denim rotated around on the other side, with a blast of pure rock energy. Their first few songs featured Scott Metzger on guitar, for takes on “Ha Ha Ha Ha (Yeah)” and a Roxy Music cover, that saw the band take full advantage of the two guitar assault, throwing their hat in the ring with the other jammers that would share the stage.

Charles Bradley’s and His Extraordinaires came swinging around the turntable next, picking up with the rock, instrumentally introducing their team captain, Charles Bradley himself, who was dressed to kill in a black vest and black pants. He lead the band through a program of classic soul and funk sounds that showered messages of peace and love on the overheated crowd. A midset wardrobe change allowed for some more instrumental magic. Charles Bradley, a man that has as many nicknames as the best boxers (including Black Rose and Black Swan) deserves two introductions, and he received it. He finished out the stage decked out in glittering gold, and gold he shall receive.

Peter Wolf, of J. Geils fame, continued with the elder statesmen segment of the festival, careening around the stage with rock star panache. He payed tribute even to his elders, including John Lee Hooker on a cover of “Serves You Right to Suffer.” The set featured straight blues, classic rock, and even dipped into some bluegrass with “Love Stinks.”

Closing out the daytime portion before Phish’s appearance, Ween closed out their two show stint at LOCKN’ with a late afternoon set, of ‘Space age daytime rock.’ In their qualifying round, they concentrated on some rarer material, but for their medal round they played a set full of fan-favorites and hits. A bit more rocking, a bit more accessible, and a whole lot of fun. The set was peppered with heavy hitters that had the crowd singing and fist pumping, particularly a midset run of “Spinal Meningitis,” “The HIV Song,” “Roses Are Free” (unfortunately with no Phish sit-in), “Your Party,” “Bananas and Blow” and ending on a blistering version of “Voodoo Lady.” After shredding a lengthy guitar solo, Dean Ween exclaimed “I got a cramp from all that rocking!” But for Jam ‘Lympics glory it was totally worth it.

More late night fun back at the village, Circles Around the Sun, the one-off band put together by guitarist Neal Casal for last year’s Fare Thee Well webcasts, played their live debut to a packed crowd at the intimate and appropriately named Woods Stage. Lights flashed over the trees giving the essence of a magical forest, and once the band kicked in the magic was ever-present. A four-piece Grateful Dead-inspired all-instrumental groove band, they had the crowd entranced. Meanwhile, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead was back at the Blue Ridge Bowl for more of the same. This time they brought out Nicole Atkins for “Dancing in the Streets” and “Music Never Stopped” and “Turn on Your Lovelight.” The set also featured an explicit bridge between the jam worlds of past and present, as Shakedown Street included a jam on “Bathtub Gin.”

The final notes of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead were still hanging thick in the air later that morning when Keller Williams took the stage for his unique bluegrass takes on the very same source material. But that’s a story for another day. LOCKN’ day three beckons. Stay tuned!

August 27, 2016
LOCKN’ Opens With Scorching Performances

Last week the world’s greatest athletes wrapped up their quadrennial competition competing on the world stage in Rio de Janeiro. The Olympics showcased the greatest talent humans have to offer in achievements of physical performance.

This weekend, on a farm in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia, the most talented musicians in rock are gathering to showcase the greatest talent humans have to offer in achievements of aural performances – it truly is like the Olympics of jam, or in LOCKN’ parlance, the Jam ‘Lympics.

Welcome, #LOCKN! Safe travels to everyone. Infinity Downs is now open for coffee, tasty breakfast, lunch, or just relaxing cool brews. If it’s a lay in a hammock and play some games type of morning… Infinity Downs is the place to be. Show field opens at 5PM, and until then, please be mindful of traffic during this busy time and respect your fellow campers. We’re so excited to have you.

A photo posted by LOCKN’ Music Festival (@locknfestival) on Aug 25, 2016 at 5:31am PDT

LOCKN’ pushed the festival into late August this year, up from early-mid September previously. If the move was made to ensure better weather, it is paying off, with hot and dry conditions that allowed for efficient entry to the festival grounds for the 25,000 fans arriving from Wednesday through Thursday.

Who better than Umphrey’s McGee, back for their third straight LOCKN’ appearance, to carry the torch in to kick off this year’s festivities. Like any good opening ceremonies, Umphrey’s set provided a feast for the eyes, with sprays and splashes of lights constantly bathing the stage in a kaleidoscope of color. This year LOCKN’ is featuring a rotating main stage. So, as opening act Vulfpeck played the last notes of their set, Umphrey’s two guitar attack blasted immediately before the band was even visible. The stage fully rotated, and just like that, Vulfpeck had transitioned seamlessly into Umphrey’s McGee, without a wasted second of silence.

Sometimes it is fun and games. #Umphreys #Lockn

A photo posted by LOCKN’ Music Festival (@locknfestival) on Aug 25, 2016 at 4:42pm PDT

Between the opening notes of “Nipple Trix” and the closing sounds of “All In Time,” Umphrey’s set featured explosive guitar work and bombastic full band improvisations, a relentless assault of over-the-top rock theatrics. Like a DJ scratching on the turntable, the next band to turn around the table, Ween, got remixed into Umphrey’s set, as Gene Ween sat in for a cover of Billy Joel’s “The Stranger.”

The opening ceremonies provided by Umphrey’s McGee was sandwiched between qualifying rounds by Vulfpeck and Ween. Both bands advanced to the medal rounds, and continued with sets Friday.

Who’s ready for Ween? #WeenMe ?: @jayblakesberg #LOCKN #ween #theboognishrises

A photo posted by LOCKN’ Music Festival (@locknfestival) on Aug 25, 2016 at 3:15pm PDT

Relative newcomers to the scene, and riding high over a year that has seen their popularity skyrocket, Vulfpeck properly opened up the performances for the 2016 edition of LOCKN’ with their infectious and slinky funk. At a festival that is sure to feature many sit-ins and a good share of covers, they delivered on both counts, with Antwain Stanley sitting in for a few tunes and secondly with their nifty cover of Steely Dan’s “Peg.” Bassist Joe Dart showed off his gymnastic skills quite literally as he cartwheeled across the stage while getting the crowd involved in a “Christmas in LA” singalong.

Ween closed the main stage Thursday with a career spanning set that in typical Ween fashion completely disregarded rock convention. When at the Jam ‘Lympics, its best to show off your jamming chops, and Ween delivered with a whacked out free form romp through “Poopship Destroyer” that had the band completely bathed in red, with some perfect trippy echoed images being displayed on the big screens and Gene Ween’s voice getting spookily modulated. They segued right into a more spritely “Zoloft” before ending after midnight unceremoniously with “Pandy Fackler.” But as Ween reminded the crowd, “Tomorrow is game day.” Even after the over two hour set, it felt like the show wouldn’t be complete without their impending Friday night set.

The day’s competition may have concluded, but back at the ‘Lympic village the party was just getting started. In the secluded Woods stage EOTO was digging into their electronic groove while the forest flashed hypnotically in reds, greens and blues. Behind a wood door that bore Jerry Garcia’s unique hand print, Garcia’s Forest featured an endless stream of historic Grateful Dead jams. While at the Blue Ridge Bowl, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead reinterpreted the very same music to a packed audience of blissed-out groovers. The music never stops.

Like a two-sport wonder, Dave Dreiwitz, who had just performed with Ween on the main stage, pulled off the magnificient multi-band feat as he immediately appeared on stage with JRAD,the first on stage in fact. JRAD’s set opened with a spacey jam that dissolved into a long drawn out take on “Truckin’,” and then the set just spiraled into a tie-dyed blend of Grateful Dead colors, mixing and remixing the Dead catalog to thrilling effect, with takes on “St. Stephen,” “The Eleven,” “The Wheel” and “Estimated Prophet” peppering the set before a night closing “Terrpain Station.” The band served as the bridge between the ancient Gods of jam and the more modern styles and techniques of today. A perfect summary of what the celebration continuing at LOCKN’ is all about; the perfect way to end the first night and a look forward to the next three jam packed days.

JRAD #LOCKN

A video posted by pete mason (@phanart) on Aug 26, 2016 at 6:47am PDT

August 26, 2016
The Disco Biscuits Tear Up New Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk

After putting the run on hold last year, The Disco Biscuits revamped City Bisco this summer and relocated to the biggest and brightest city of them all, New York City. On April 18 and 19 the band performed at Irving Plaza in downtown Manhattan, playing back to back heaters that included fan favorites “Therapy,” “Confrontation,” and “Kitchen Mitts.” Friday the 19th also saw the band debuting a new original, “The Champions.” Switching locations but losing no momentum, the Disco Biscuits moved the party to the new Ford Amphitheater on the Coney Island Boardwalk for the final night of the run, Saturday August 20.

It was an interesting scene, seeing Disco Biscuits heads mingle among the usual weekend patrons of Coney Island. Roller coasters whipping past, the wafting smell of the salt water battling for dominance with the odor of the famous boardwalk hot dog, and good ol’ White Castle Express. It reminds you of a time past, but the New York City energy is still unmistakably crackling up and down the worn boards just as much as in the asphalt a few boroughs away. The Ford Amphitheater opened its doors at 6PM, revealing state of the art facilities and high quality monitors flanking the stage.

The Hungry March Band provided a nice introduction for the Biscuits, with members of the headlining act slowly joining as the March proceeded into a familiar melody. Both acts broke into “Spectacle,” and as the Biscuits began to take over the groove the Hungry Marchers exited stage left. Jon “The Barber” Gutwillig seemed to have some intonation issues during the opener, stopping abruptly to re-tune during the noodley 11/8 time section. He wasted no time getting his mojo right back in line however, as his solo during “¿Donde?” melted more than a few faces. The song was extremely put together considering the last time they played it live was September of 2010. Keyboardist Aron Magner provided a surreal acoustic piano introduction for a stunningly tight “The Very Moon,” which gave way to an absolutely raging “Tempest.” The segment transitioned into a flawless inverted “Digital Buddha,” continuing seamlessly into the funk section of “The Very Moon.” Seguing into the end of “And the Ladies Were the Rest of the Night” would complete the unfinished version from the previous evening, as well as bring the set to a dramatic close.

The Biscuits chose the Beastie Boys classic “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” as a perfectly apt opener for the second set, giving a nod to the Hip Hop titans as well as the location of the evening’s show. Having only played it out one other time in October of 2009, bassist Marc Brownstein seemed positively giddy to play an anthem from one of his childhood influences. “Run Like Hell” provided back to back covers for the last set of City Bisco. Without a single standalone song the entire set, the boys seemed to get into the pocket and stay there for a few songs after “Run Like Hell,” playing off of each other effortlessly but effectively. “Cyclone” seemed an obvious choice considering the name of the local minor league baseball team who’s stadium was about a quarter mile down the board walk and was a complete shredder.

Allen Aucoin’s drum rolls were so pristine that it actually hurt a little. An inverted version of “Crickets” got everyone on their feet, but an inverted “Aquatic Ape” sort of quelled the vibrations building from the previous jams. Some thought it was a strange choice considering the previous and forthcoming compositions: the end of “Bernstein and Chasnoff” seemed to lack following such a down tempo diddly. Coming back out for the encore with “Highwire” was sort of a slap in the face for some fans after a weekend of song choices that left us on our toes; “Highwire” being the epitome of the opposite concept.

After yet another weekend of unexpected bust outs and crazy set list arrangements, Bisconauts both tenured and amateur have a lot to look forward to. The Biscuits have proved that they’re back on the right track, 2016 seeming their comeback year. They’ll be headlining this upcoming Saturday, August 27 at Imagine Festival in Atlanta, as well as two nights in September at the Great North festival in Maine. This should give curious jam fans plenty of time to relax with the Disco Biscuits. And remember…they nasty, but they good.

August 24, 2016
STS9 Announce 2016 Fall Tour, Include Terminal 5 Date

STS9 has announced a 2016 fall headlining tour in support of The Universe Inside, their first studio album in more than seven years. The tour kicks of Oct. 20 in Minneapolis and finishes Nov. 12 at Terminal 5 in NYC.

The newly announced headlining dates are interspersed by festival appearances, including sets on Halloween weekend at the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience in New Orleans and Suwannee Hulaween in Live Oak, Florida.

The group is also playing two back-to-back shows this weekend, Friday Aug. 26 and Saturday Aug. 27 in Georgia in “acoustic form,” followed by two dates at Red Rocks Amphitheater Sept. 9 and 10.

The Universe Inside will be released Friday Sept. 2.

Fri 8/26 Atlanta, GA, The Tabernacle
Sat 8/27, Alpharetta, GA, Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
Fri 9/9, Morrison, CO, Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Sat 9/10, Morrison, CO, Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Thu 10/20, Minneapolis, MN, Skyway Theater
Fri 10/21, Madison, WI, Orpheum Theater
Sat 10/22, Detroit, MI, The Fillmore
Sun 10/23, Columbus, OH, Express Live! Indoor Pavilion
Wed 10/26, Louisville, KY, Mercury Ballroom
Thu 10/27, Memphis, TN, New Daisy Theatre
October 28-30, New Orleans, LA, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience
October 28-30, Live Oak, FL, Suwannee Hulaween
Mon 10/31, Athens, GA, Georgia Theater
Thu 11/3, Nashville, TN, War Memorial Auditorium
Fri 11/4, Knoxville, TN, Tennessee Theatre
Sat 11/5, Asheville, NC, Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
Sun 11/6, Charlottesville, VA, Jefferson Theater
Wed 11/9, Norfolk, VA, The Norva
Thu 11/10, Silver Spring, MD, The Fillmore
Fri 11/11, Philadelphia, PA, The Fillmore
Sat 11/12, New York, NY, Terminal 5

August 24, 2016
Festivalgoers Let Their Soul Shine During Second Half of The Peach

Saturday and Sunday at The Peach Music Festival in Scranton, PA was more of the same weather wise with scorching heat, humidity and powerful storms that would delay several sets in the evening. Despite the elements, festivalgoers all across Montage Mountain appeared to be in better spirits for the later half, perhaps due to an acceptance and understanding of these factors, but more likely due to the outstanding music delivered to their eyes and ears. Headliners like Trey Anastasio Band and Umphrey’s McGee delivered top notch sets on Friday and Gov’t Mule and new supergroup “RB&B” brought the festival to a truly satisfying close on Sunday.

New York’s own Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds swooped onto the main stage early in the afternoon. Arleigh Kincheloe and brother Jackson, along with the rest of the birds energized the mountain with their soulful yet funky performance fans have come to love.

The afternoon also welcomed back Tom Hamilton to the Grove Stage with his band American Babies. Hamilton is a talented songwriter and although his presence in Thursday night’s Pink Floyd Electron set was nothing short of jaw dropping, the change of pace with the lively Americana feel to his afternoon set is exhilarating as well. Also during this time, metal rockers Brown Sabbath slayed over on the Mushroom Stage. Their frontman is as comical as he is talented, addressing the crowd as “motherfuckers” in between sets. As the name suggests, the Austin based band covers the catalog of Black Sabbath, but they do so with horns and Latin-style percussion for a unique experience both metal heads and hippies can appreciate.

The darlings of the festival scene, Twiddle, brought a massive crowd to the Mushroom Stage mid-afternoon on Saturday. This would likely have been a massive pool party like that of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong the day before, but the wave pool was closed. No matter though as fans packed the area to witness the rising stars welcome Russ Lawton on drums and Ray Paczkowski on keys, both from Soule Monde and TAB, join the band for “White Light.” Bassist Zdenek Gubb proved himself to be MVP of the set with powerful and funky bass playing that could be felt at the very top of Montage Mountain.

The highlight of Friday afternoon was Joe Russo’s Almost Dead. Because the Grateful Dead means so much to so many people in the community, it’s no wonder their set drew such a massive crowd to the main stage. Joe Russo and friends bring a thrilling and welcomed update to the classics so many of us have come to cherish. Their set included greats like “Eyes of the World,” “The Wheel” and a full and powerful “Terrapin Station.”

As was the trend each evening at Peach, Mother Nature made her presence known with continuous flashes of lightening that would come with strong winds, rain and thunderstorms forcing The Lennon Claypool Delirium to prematurely end their predictably spacey yet original set. Fans took cover under the Pavilion as the first part of the storm passed overhead flooding the floors under their feet. Once passed it was finally time for the great Trey Anastasio Band to hit the stage. The pavilion, now packed with fans, housed tunes like “Cayman Review,” “Magilla,” “Gotta Jibboo” and “Money Love and Change.” As soon as “Sand” started to pick up, Anastasio was forced to tell fans to once again seek cover due to more severe weather. Once given the all clear, TAB returned to the stage to pick up “Sand” where they left off. Later in the set, Trey shared the story of how former TAB trombonist Jeff Cressman left the band to play with Santana. When Trey asked him who might replace him, Cressman suggested his daughter Natalie. Jeff was then welcomed to the stage and the father-daughter team thrilled the crowd together during “Push on Til’ the Day” to close one of the best sets of the entire Peach weekend.

Umphrey’s McGee gave the best musical nightcap of the weekend with their latenight set on the main stage Saturday night. The lightshow in the Pavilion was spectacular and the music was on point. The progressive rockers from Chicago played older songs from their catalog such as “Wappy Sprayberry” as well as a cover of Prince’s “Controversy,” a song they first covered in Minneapolis the day after the legendary singer’s death. “Puppet String” included Hall and Oates’ “I Can’t Go for That” and Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall” teases. Fans beat on the back of the seats within the Pavilion; the sound dragging the band out for a thrilling encore of “In the Kitchen” into “Glory” and ending with a reprise of “Puppet String.”

Sunday was the return to struggle city for many campers packing up their belongings to hike off the mountain and return home. Lines seemed to move faster and despite it being the fourth day of the festival, people were in good spirits.

Sunday began with a special ‘Wake up With Warren Haynes’ acoustic set that featured Gov’t Mule numbers “Beautifully Broken,” “Raven Black Night,” and “In My Life.” The set would not have been complete without the delivery of some Allman Brothers Band tunes to commemorate the festival’s beginning. Haynes played “Old Friend” and “End of the Line,” two ABB songs he contributed to. Warren returned for a two-song encore beginning with Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic” and Gov’t Mule favorite “Soulshine” to the delight of thousands.

Not more than a year since the Black Crowes called it quits, founding member Rich Robinson is taking his solo career to new heights. The Rich Robinson Band performed Sunday at The Peach. In addition, Robinson was welcomed to the stage to join Blackberry Smoke and later on with Gov’t Mule.

Blackberry Smoke is a southern rock group with bluesy guitar riffs and country music undertones not unlike that of the Allman Brothers Band. The set featured originals as well as a down home version of Led Zeppelin’s “Your Time is Gonna Come.” Robinson joined the quintet for The Black Crowes’ “Wiser Time,” in which he delivered a thrilling guitar solo.

With Gregg Allman canceling a week prior to The Peach due to illness, a supergroup was formed to fill in the time slot he was scheduled for Sunday afternoon. The group consisted of Joe Russo, Marco Benevento and Oteil Burbridge. The trio delivered a unique set that was largely a jazz-fusion jam in which the talents played off one another with ease, a nice segue to the headlining guest packed performance by Gov’t Mule. After a few Gov’t Mule tunes including “Mule” and “Game Face” with a “Mountain Jam” tease, Rich Robinson was once again welcomed back to the stage for a Crowe’s signature song “Sometimes Salvation.” The encore included “Come and Go Blues” with Charlie Starr, Brit Turner and Brandon Still of Blackberry Smoke before Oteil Burbridge joined the stage once more to aid in Allman Brothers’ classic “Dreams,” before ending the festival with a triumphant “Whipping Post.”

The fifth annual Peach Music Festival was legendary in its own right with world class musical acts, a stunning yet difficult venue, and memories fans would take with them for the rest of their lives. The spirit of the Allman Brothers Band was alive and well and we are happy to hear Gregg Allman is on the mend.

August 22, 2016
The Budos Band Rented A Vintage Organ. Then They Destroyed it On Stage

A video has surfaced showing destruction done to a rented 1967 Vox Continental organ by The Budos Band, a group based out of Staten Island. The cell phone video shows the keyboardist, Mike Deller, on the floor attempting to play the organ that had fallen off the stand, with no one even attempting to pick up or check on the condition of the instrument. How the organ got knocked off is unclear. What is clear, however, is that this instrument was being rented out as backline equipment, and Deller is seen literally ripping the keys right off the organ.

The band responded to the damage on their Facebook page with the following:

“Over the weekend during our set, we managed to damage a rather expensive rented vintage organ. We regret that our actions resulted in equipment damage and will ensure this will not happen again. We already offered to pay for the damage that was done days ago, and we hope that this incident can be handled in a professional manner. The damage was not done on purpose, and it was an unfortunate side effect of our stage show. If you have seen us play live shows, you know we give 110 percent every time we play. The paying fans expect that much from us and we also expect that much from each other. Playing at our level of intensity sometimes produces unwanted results and we regret any damages we may have caused.

We love our fans and the people behind the scenes that make it all happen. We appreciate all of your support and look forward to seeing you out on the road.

Sincerely, The Fuckin Budos”

Watch the video above and judge for yourself.

August 21, 2016