Tag: goose

Goosemas to be held at Mohegan Sun Arena on December 18

In a step up from their past holiday concert celebrations, Connecticut indie-jam darlings Goose will bring their eighth annual Goosemas show to Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday, December 18.

The past two years have seen Connecticut rockers Goose grow from a local bar band to a premiere festival headliner who are today announcing their biggest show to date.

Goosemas began as a tradition with humble roots in the basement of a Norwalk, CT music studio. While the next four years would see the band hold an intimate event inside underground venues in Norwalk, the sixth iteration of Goosemas found the band moving the event to Wall Street Theatre. During 2020, Goosemas went up to the top of Rockefeller Plaza for a Twitch exclusive livestream, drawing over 60,000 viewers worldwide,and raised over $45,000 for charity.

We’re so stoked to host Goosemas back home in Connecticut. It has truly been incredible to see how the event has grown over the past few years, and we can’t wait to do it again in front of a live audience
guitarist/vocalist Rick Mitarotonda

This year’s show will see Goose take the stage for three sets, with plenty of surprises in store for fans. Goosemas will be the last show of a highly anticipated, 19-date national fall run, with over half of the tour already sold out.

Initial tickets will be available through a lottery, with a request period running today Tuesday, August 24th at 12 PM ET through Wednesday, August 25 at 5 PM ET. Winners will be notified before the general on-sale, beginning Friday, August 27 at 10 AM ET. Venue Presale will be held on Thurs, Aug 26 @ 10am-10pm ET — password STOCKS

For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit goosetheband.com/tour.

Connecticut-based rock quintet Goose celebrates the holidays with Goosemas live from Mohegan Sun Arena, the band’s first-ever arena performance. Goosemas is the band’s eighth annual holiday celebration and premieres Saturday, December 18 at 8PM ET exclusively on The Relix Channel via Twitch. This year’s show sees Goose take the stage for three sets, with plenty of surprises in store for fans attending both in person and at home.

Proceeds from the livestream benefit Family & Children’s Agency, a Norwalk, Connecticut non-profit serving thousands of children, families, adults, and seniors each year. Viewers can donate to the organization directly through the livestream or on Family & Children Agency’s website.

On Saturday, December 18, PhanArt brings together artists and vendors from the growing Goose community for the first time, with a show at Mohegan Sun, The Hometown Flodown.

Held on the day of Connecticut jam band Goose’s annual end of year celebration, Goosemas, The Hometown Flodown will represent artist and vendors rising out of the Goose scene, with a wide array of apparel, posters, stickers, household items, photography and much more in store. A perfect gathering spot for fans pre-show, PhanArt shows bring live music fans together for a mix of familiar and unfamiliar faces, new and preferred styles of art, just in time for the holidays.

Located in the Uncas Ballroom of Mohegan Sun, doors for The Hometown Flodown open at 1pm, with a great opportunity to find deals from artists spanning the Goose and jam band communities. Admission is free, with tubes for sale. More details at PhanArt.net

GOOSE FALL TOUR:

SEP 3: 4848 Festival – Snowshoe, WV (Sold Out)

SEP 4: Bonnaroo – Manchester, TN (Sold Out)

SEP 18: Sea.Hear.Now Festival / Asbury Park, NJ

OCT 8: Terminal 5 / New York, NY (Sold Out)

OCT 9: Terminal 5 / New York, NY (Sold Out)

OCT 28: State Theatre / Portland, ME

OCT 29: State Theatre / Portland, ME (Sold Out)

OCT 30: The Palladium / Worcester, MA (Sold Out)

OCT 31: The Palladium / Worcester, MA

NOV 6: The Eastern / Atlanta, GA (Sold Out)

NOV 7 : The Eastern / Atlanta, GA (Sold Out)

NOV 9: Republic New Orleans / New Orleans, LA (Sold Out)

NOV 10: House of Blues / Houston, TX

NOV 11: Scoot Inn / Austin, TX (Sold Out)

NOV 12: Scoot Inn / Austin, TX (Sold Out)

NOV 13: The HiFi Dallas / Dallas, TX (Sold Out)

NOV 16: Tower Theatre / Oklahoma City, OK

NOV 17: The Truman KC / Kansas City, MO

NOV 21: The Mission Ballroom / Denver, CO (Sold Out)

NOV 22: The Mission Ballroom / Denver, CO

DEC 18: Goosemas / Mohegan Sun Arena / Uncasville, CT

GOOSE WINTER TOUR 2022:

JAN 26: Marquee Theatre / Tempe, AZ

JAN 27: The Observatory North Park / San Diego, CA (Sold Out)

JAN 28: The Fonda Theatre / Hollywood, CA (Sold Out)

JAN 29: The Regency Ballroom / San Francisco, CA (Sold Out)

JAN 30: The Regency Ballroom / San Francisco, CA

FEB 2: Midtown Ballroom / Bend, OR

FEB 3: Wonder Ballroom / Portland, OR (Sold Out)

FEB 4: Wonder Ballroom / Portland, OR (Sold Out)

FEB 5: Neptune Theatre / Seattle, WA (Sold Out)

FEB 7: The ELM / Bozeman, MT

December 8, 2021
Orebolo Feat. Goose Members Set Sail On First Tour: So Ready For Solarium
Orebolo is an Acoustic trio featuring Rich Mitarotonda, Peter Anspach, and Jeffrey ArÃ©valo, also known as affectionatly nicknamed aGOOSEtic kicked off their first tour at the Tarrytown Music Hall on December 2 2021 for a sold out crowd. The ambience and intimacy were unique, but the faces and music familiar.

You know you are in for a treat when you get “sitting Rick” Photo by Em Walis

Lost in the hollows of shutdown, the soft holiday lights, soothing houseplants and beautiful music of Orebolo provided a dreamy santuary when many needed it most. To witness in real time what was once only as livestreams recorded in a fantasy land far, far away, evoked a child-like sense of belief in magic and the power of music.

It Was Magic

Walking through the entryway into the theater felt like being a character in a movie where candles float above during meals and small flying balls were caught on brooms for fun. Having a ticket felt like getting the letter that we have been selected to participate in something extraordinary. The Tarrytown Music Hall experience could be described as safe in the way one might feel in their favorite cozy reading nook or behind the walls in a great castle. The difference was that the friends sitting nearby in this fantasy also happened to be member of a favorite band. Safety was of of the utmost importance. The venue required vaccination and masks for the entire show.

Safe space made for meaningful moments. Photo by Em Walis

Masks Up & Hearts Open

While it might have felt difficult for some to return to these precations and the lack of human connection that goes with it, the attention to detail in the overall ambience of the stage and performance completely offset any negativity or sadness. Filled with beautifully curated furniture, warm lamps, houseplants, and a frame ofchristmas lights placed on the floor, Orebolo successfully recreated the Solarium where many streams were filmed.

The Coxy Nook. Photo by: Em Walis

At the beginning of the show, Peter Anspach (guitar/ vocals) addressed the crowd and invited everyone to dance if they wanted. This statement set the tone for the rest of the night to be one of jovial connection, regardless of the decible level. The atply nicknamed “front row fam” due to the lack of rail danced the night away. Leading the pack was none other than Lord Marc “Scarf Guy” Komito accompanied by his wife Lady Diana “Mrs. Scarf” Komito.

South Farms staff were masters of the Covid protocols Photo by: Em Walis

Moderately Ready To Skip Bottom Eyeliner

Is it a microphone shadow or is it the mark of the front row fam> Photo by: Em Walis

Skipping bottom eyeliner seemed to be the correct tactic because emotion ran high throughout the show. Unlikely tracks such as “So Ready” electrified with new meaning as the choral volume of the crowd matched those on stage. Goose historians would asstert that the calm nature of “Slow Ready” successfully combined with the anthemic power of “So Ready” to successfully create “Moderately Ready” (not officially confirmed). There was an interesting duality in the excitement felt for a typical Goose show existing simultaneously with the stripped-down intimacy and haunting vulnerability of songs like “Bob Don”. Lifelong friends were bantering back and forth with the band as they have for years, but the power of the crowd at large hinted at how far the growth of these musicians has come.

Photo made possible by the lovely staff at Tarrytown Music Hall. Photo by Em Walis

Stunts & Shasta

It has been said that Gong Gang spiritual leader Jeffrey Arevalo does is own stunts. His stand up bass skills alongside vocals truly demonstrated his role as proverbial dark horse or wildcard in both bands. Jeff’s playing was so hypnotizing that it would be easy to miss one of the highlights of the show sitting patiently on the side of the stage. Rick’s partner provided support from the side stage with their puppy Shasta. “Lead the Way,” about Ricks previous dog was played, allowing for yet another moment to remeber not to wear bottom eyeliner.

Jeff gets his bravery for stunts from his Orion Jewelry Design bracelets. Available at the Goosemas Hometown Flodown Art Show. Photo by Em Walis

After The Farm Bought The Farm

Panning around the Music Hall, it became quite apparent that the staff were singing just as loudly as the rest of the crowd. It turns out that many of them were huge goose fans having previously worked at the now defunct South Farms venue. The excitement for the amount of new song debuts were shared by all.

Jon “Coach” Lombardi is a grounding constant in all Goose related happenings. Photo by Em Walis

A Goosemas Story

Visions of past present and future seemed to melt together. Marc up front doing his thing, the houseplants reminiscent of Peter’s mustached companion from the Goose Perry show, rewinding back to the Great Beyond Podcast, El Goose Times, sharing grass (the floor tickets, obviously) with Doey Joey at Westville Music Bowl. Chatter of the upcoming Goosemas show as well as the Hometown Flodown Art show happening earlier in the day.

Sam Bardini;s role with Goose dates back to signing up while it was still a “one day hopefully” Photo by Em Walis

So many thoughts were available to fall into when all of a sudden, attention was redirected back to the stage while “Rosalie McFall” filled the room . It was very obvious from the meticulous mixing arrangements being made that sound engineer Sam Bardini has listened to a bluegrass song or two in his day. The traditional nature of the song begged the question of how Goose bassist Trevor Weekz might sound playing mandolin with Orebolo.

Dream? Photo by Em Walis

Warm Lamps & House Plants

You know that part at the end of a movie where the wild adventure is over, bad guy defeated and the main character is back in the safety of their bedroom? Everything appears to be back to normal but then in the background we notice something from the fantasy world they had just escaped? Possibly a character from the movie shows up to remind the main character that they are still friends and will be there for the main character should they ever need? That was what Orebolo did for so many on their first night of tour.

Photo by Em Walis

Weeks later, when scrolling through photos, one might pass by their photos from the night. Without knowing it, mood could be lifted slightly. Better yet, the recipient of the cat photo peeking over their shoulder might ask who was playing at that concert?

Photo by Em Walis

The day could then improve a whole lot; for there is only one answer to this question:

Have you heard of a band called Goose? No? Well, you see… it all really started when Peter learned keyboard…….
-Anonymous

Orebolo Setlist: Silver Dagger (Joan Baez), Elizabeth, Indian River, The Whales, Lead The Way, Caution (Bob Marley & The Wailers), Moonrise, US Blues (Grateful Dead), Dim Lights, So Ready, Devil In Disguise (Elvis), It Burns Within, Bob Don, Rosalie McFall (Charlie Monroe), Drive, Arise, Madhuvan
Encore: Angel Band (Traditional)

Photos by Zak Radick
December 4, 2021
Orebolo – Featuring Members of Goose – Announce Winter Tour Stops in Tarrytown and Homer

Orebolo, an acoustic trio featuring Goose members Rich Mitarotonda (vocals, guitar) Peter Anspach (vocals, guitar), Jeff Arevalo (upright bass) have announced a series of six winter tour dates.

In December, the trio will make stops in Upstate New York at Tarrytown Music Hall, and Homer Center for the Arts, as well as Spruce Peak Performing Arts in Stowe, followed by a three shows in Colorado in late January.

The group has built a faithful following nationwide, following a series of virtual festival appearances in 2020, and an acclaimed performance at Lockn’ Presents FRED The Festival in August 2021. Formed during the height of the initial COVID-19 surge, the members of Orebolo shared a home and found comfort in learning new covers and creatively exploring Goose’s deep catalog acoustically.

Starting this project was a source of relief for all of us, especially during such a crazy time. Our initial practice and recording space was inside our solarium – the vibe was really tranquil, and we wanted our listeners to share in that feeling. I’m stoked we have the opportunity to take this out on the road and perform in some incredible rooms.
Peter Anspach

Pre-sale tickets will be available Wednesday, October 13 at 10AM venue local time using the code ‘OREBOLO’. The general on-sale will follow on Friday, October 15 at 10AM venue local time. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit orebolo.com.

October 13, 2021
In Focus: Goose Sell Out two nights at Terminal 5
Goose made it look almost all too easy to sell out their second night of Terminal 5 on October 9, 2021. The Connecticut-based quartet undeniably took the audience on a full fledged journey that encompassed the multitude of genres that have influenced the band, thus far. Lucky New Yorkers had a chance to experience the powerhouse that transported us somewhere outside New York City this weekend.

Stage lights dim welcoming Rick, Peter, Trevor, Ben, and Jeff on stage, accompanied with a roar from fans begging “GOOSE”, echoing from all three stories inside the terminal. “Tumble” opened the show where Ben Atkind (drums) did us the favor of pulling us into the groovy funk dictating the addictive dancey beat that defines Goose. Rick Mitarotonda (guitar, vocals) spoke indefinitely through the gorgeous Paul Reed Smith Hollowbody II, putting the audience in a trance with his guitar shredding improv through Bob Don.

Peter Anspach makes his first lead vocal debut of the night with a new song from the band, Life On the Shelf. Clearly an unreleased hit, without knowing any words fans were hooked on the chorus, dancing and swaying to the sincere folk tune, highlighted by Rick and Peter’s buttery harmonies. Followed with “Jive Lee” and “Jive II,” Peter’s funky solos and Trevor Weekz thick bass lines brought the crowd furiously jumping and screaming once again. Without any hesitation the audience was pulled into a surprise cover of “Rock the Casbah” from the Clash shaking the floor until the end of set I.

“Wysteria Lane” kicked off the second set with a smile and Peter’s earnest vocals, with some help from the Luigi plush on one of his three dazzling double casio keyboards. Unbelievable Goosian-shredding kept the crowd mesmerized cheering with each cadence as both Rick and Peter swiftly moved up and up the neck leaving the audience asking if they came to a hard rock concert. Rick guided us through Seekers on the Ride I and II with ease reminding fans of their versatility as artists. The loudest cheers of the night broke when Rick’s eccentric solos pushed to the well known hard twangy intro of “Hot Tea.” Ending with “Dragon Fly I & II,” Rick eased our anxieties with a smile “Don’t worry we have one more set.”

“Get The Funk Out of My Face” was not the only cover of set III, but Goose’s folk rock cover of Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks” made it sound like Goose could’ve written the song. Just when we thought Trevor Weekz might just be too cool for us, being the backbone of Goose with his 5-string bass and sunglasses, the spotlight shined on him as he read a “Acquainted with the Night” by Robert Frost backed by Ben Atkind (drums) and Rick filling some eerie melodies. The band endurance was unrequited through three full set of nonstop music eventually wrapping with an Encore of “Hot Tea.”

Goose – Terminal 5 – Friday, October 8, 2021

Set 1: So Ready, Look Out Cleveland, Honeybee, Indian River, The Whales, All I Need

Set 2: 2021> Old Man’s Boat >2021, Rosewood Heart > Into the Myst, Echo of a Rose > 2021

Encore: Flodown

Goose – Terminal 5 – Saturday, October 9, 2021

Set 1: Tumble, Bob Don, Life on a Shelf*, White Lights > Jive 1 > Jive Lee > Rock the Casbah

Set 2: Wysteria Lane > It Burns Within, Seekers on the Ridge [Part I & II], Hot Tea > Dragonfly [I&II]

Set 3: Get The Funk Out Ma Face, Creatures > Pumped Up Kicks, Madhuvan** > Turn on Your Love Light > Madhuvan

Encore: Teaprise

* first time played
** Trevor poetry read

photos by Matt Shotwell
October 12, 2021
Getting Involved Under The Goose Moon: Fred the Festival at LOCKN’ Farm

Under the hazy light of 2021’s August Full Moon, it became apparent that attendees of Fred The Festival at LOCKN’ Farm were, in fact, getting involved. Fred, a festival hosted by Goose, included side projects of the band itself like Vasudo, Elephantproof, and the aGOOSEtic trio, as well as Peter Anspach’s debut acoustic solo performance. The festival provided a refreshing and wholesome interpretation of what a music festival could look like without ever compromising on the quality of production and music.

Stormy weather

Is It The Wind Upon My Neck?

Turned Clouds

Despite threatening skies that seem to always make for the most beautiful sunset, security guards seemed disinterested in the potential weather and said that the storms always passed behind the farm. They did.

Is It The Glowing Of The Moon?

On the weekend of August 20-22. the full moon illuminated the rolling fields at Lockn Farms in Arrington, VA.

It is said that if a seeker perceives their environment to be safe, then the light of a full moon can illuminate new intuitive understanding about how to navigate through darkness or uncertain times. New and excellent music can be medicinal in properties. ElephantProof gave the entire crowd a dose of the rare form of stoke that only comes from that ear-tingly reserved only for future favorite artists.

Sam Bardini and Andrew Goedde making Garcia’s Forest a safer, brighter, more musical place

The real magic of this moon, this gathering, and this grand reveal was that many found out just how loved they were by their chosen family. The plot twist theme seemed to be that the haze hills and dark pathways were much easier to navigate when in the company of others.

Oasis in the depth of the night illuminated by the Lover’s hoops and serenaded by the wise minstrel himself

It proved to be especially helpful when that company happened to be carrying an illuminated hula hoop at a silent disco half way back to camp. Doey Joey and Becky provided more than just a boogie-down pit stop. They offered their love and shared their creativity without hesitation. Those wise guiding lights and silent dances helped some of those that might have been lost to find their way.

The more time I spend with this (Goose) community the more I realizeâ¦ the people you do things with become a part of you and who you will be. In your blood, family.
Doey Joey

Seekers On The Ridge

LOCKN’ Farm hosted Fred the Festival. At about a day’s drive for most participants, the rolling hills are located in the midst of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. The environment allowed for all seekers on the ridge to separate themselves completely from everyday responsibilities. To truly detach allowed for the examination and reevaluation of moonlit discoveries.

Get Involved

The rolling hills and open fields provided the perfect place for games. The “Get Involved Games” were held on the lawn adjacent to the main stage and in front of the much smaller Porch Stage. Color coded teams assembled every morning to play games like tug-of-war, noodle hockey and giant Jenga. Band and crew members captained the teams and provided support from afar due to Covid restrictions.

Participants were actively partying less because they did not want to let their team down during the games. One team member recalled meeting with the captain bright and early to discuss potential strategies for the games ahead. A festival that had games scheduled during an hour that required early bed times with dedicated participants begs the question of if Fred the Festival itself have been an illusion.

In Search Of An Honest Place To Call My Home

Elmeg in Love

One dedicated couple chose Fred to be the place for wedding vow renewals in celebration of their five-year wedding anniversary. After enduring years of tumultuous societal overtones, this couple learned what it truly meant to find meaning in the grounding comfort of the earth and all it has to offer. They live and love in harmony with the land and have honed the ability find joy in the most uncommon places (hint: turn over a rotting log and watch her lose her mind at all the fungi growing). Multi-tiered snow forts and multi colored livestreams filled their time together until restrictions were lifted enough to dawn their chef and spaghetti costumes for Halloween at South Farms in Connecticut way back in November. Goose helped them stay involved with each other.

Adorable Hour

One benefit to waking up early, regardless of game status, was seeing Goose Guitarist Keyboardist, Vocalist Peter Anspach deliver his first solo set on the extremely intimate Porch Stage setup. What could easily make a fabulous segment on a TV show, some fans had their heart strings pulled at the music so much that they lovingly came up with the segment intro that goes a little something like, “On this episode of The Adorable Hour with Peter Anspach: Things that make you say, “Aww.” Peter’s set truly showcased a side of vulnerability and artistic ability in himself that created a bond between the crowd and the man in only the way accepting someone when they try something new can. To lead by example in that difficult and personal way set a precedent for others to take into consideration what can be gained with honesty and vulnerability.

Danny taking a compliment

It is said that the moon represents illusion and that what might have been seen under the moonlight could have been skewed. Fred the Festival revealed the depth of misinterpretation held about what a music festival should look like. Many traveled far and wide to attend even just a day of FRED, but it was not simply a music festival to which they were so drawn. The seekers were drawn to an evolution from participants to chosen family that has occurred over the last year as a result of what Goose likes to call “getting involved.” A little over a year ago, many seekers met in chat boards during the virtual interactive Bingo Tour. As reopening began, many of the people that met and remained in contact through message boards and streaming chat rooms got to meet in person and form more personal connections.

Many felt the undying support and safety of this familial bond. Conditions like these made it possible for some to consider seeing their own inner beauty. Fred was a safe place to consider possibilities like being more athletic, or to smile genuinely in a photo.

So Ready

Disco gaggle

Fred the Festival was special because this time, it seemed like not only were most of the usual subjects present, but it was like some sort of family reunion. Those that were meeting for the first time appeared to connect through shared love for a mutual fan friend or their favorite show. The amount of streaming music Goose has put out over the last year has been a great unifier for fans.

Fearless leader and contributor to the “El Goose Times” Marc Komito, aka “Scarf Guy”

Attendees of Fred the Festival truly appeared to begin to reveal their true nature of filling familial gaps for those lonely or in need. Goose cane-wielding uncles were able to connect with grandparents of tie dye wearing sloth mayors.

Children attended and parents were rejuvenated by remembering what it was like to see live music for the first time and connect with others that shared the same values. Walking the pathways during the day or night seemed like endless reunion after reunion. Grand reunions, quick catchups and then boogying down to a song seemed to be the pattern repeating over and over.

Take Your Troubles

Brothers at boards

The complete synergy among the crew illuminated group flow with familial bonds stretching out further than the Goeddes. At front of house, the flow between Sam Bardini and Andrew Goedde was reminiscent of a synchronized wingsuit team. Sound and light existed as one and because Sam and Goedde can pivot and finesse knowing the other will by right there without having to speak. If they did take the time to talk about what adjustment they might make next, the moment would have been long gone.

Goedde flexing

This healthy, family relationship atmosphere reflects in both the product as well as the constant inspiration and motivation for everyone on crew to push their craft to the next level. This transcends the band, the crew and the attendees. Everyone seemed to be excited for another’s new venture as if they were a proud grandma.

Having a chance to be away from “real life” created a new space for gratitude as well as a space to accept new music. Fred removed any stress that might disallow the space to give new music a try. Some attendees recalled a time where listening to one song or one set helped sooth anxiety during shutdown. The signs of curiosity indicated for many that their mental space was improving as the country began some semblance of a reopening.

Cory finding optimal position for photosynthesis

Stand out performer Cory Wong captivated the audience with attention grabbing musical know-how, a charismatic band and his charming personality. There were no still feet to be found because everyone seemed to be up and dancing for Cory’s set. To win over an audience largely filled with fans that have only been out to see one act and one act only spoke volumes for those that took notice. One die hard “Gong Gang” member recalled giving Cory’s set a few minutes because the nautical shirt was reminiscent of Jeff’s sailor hat. That person ended up staying the whole set and could not wait to listen to more of Cory’s music on the way home.

The Don

Mayor Little Baby Crepes making his rounds

To travel far and wide to be with people that mean a lot and for one common connector, like Goose, had words like “family” and “vacation” being used a lot. It was rare to hear the words “music festival” because it felt like so much more than that.

Guess the song you think this face happened for!

Fred the Festival was the result of the entire Goose community working hard over the last year to cultivate an atmosphere that is conducive to those that might not normally consider a music festival an option. The Hot Tea Party on Facebook had a showing of fans in recovery and made sure to provide support for anyone that might have been struggling.

Metamorphasis

The festival allowed for participants to come together, play games, be themselves and have a safe space for contemplation. Led by a strong production and management team, the three-day music family vacation event felt extremely wholesome and like “pure happiness.”

Goosemas

Aptly named “Santa Todd” on instagram, one outlier story must not be overlooked. One couple found at one of the cornhole stations admitted to never having heard Goose before and shared that they were attending to see Dawes.

New fan Santa Todd

Santa Todd and Mrs. Santa (Michelle) ended up staying for both sets of Goose and quickly understood the draw.

Goose recently announced that their annual Goosemas show will be on December 12 at Mohegan Sun. Be sure to coordinate with Goose Family to get everyone covered for tickets. The presale lottery was reported to move slowly which is usually an indicator of a quick sell out.

Click to read what happened to Trevor the last time Goose played under the full moon.

August 28, 2021
FloydFest 2021: A Music Odyssey

Nestled deep in the hills of Virginia, Floyd Fest 2021 kept true to its theme ‘Odyssey” when it provided a dreamy, cantina-like oasis for curious seekers and seasoned travelers alike. Artists including Goose and Andy Frasco & The U.N. blended into the crowd for Billy Strings and waited patiently for Leftover Salmon between their own sets in order to bask in the familiar and the favorites.

Fire ritual spoiler alert

But what really happened that weekend? Why were there mystical creatures? What was that thing that happened with the full moon and the fire ritual performed by Goose on Friday?

The Quest

Most that have traveled that far from home for a beach with tented structures that barely qualify as “chair”. Beverages served inside the protective outer layer of a large fruit elevate one’s lounging experience.

Attendees resorted to extreme measures by day 3 of hiking the hill from camp to the main stage.

Others have always felt the magnetic pull of the electrical currents flowing through consoles responsible for light and sound. The wise were beckoning.

Lockn’ The Wise looks prepared for Fred the Festival

Nestled down in a small valley of rolling hills, tents lit like little huts in a shire. Moon, red like a western sun, rising through the faraway wildfire’s haze. After hours upon hours of travel, it seemed like a mirage, or a figment of imagination.

The Village

Floyd traveler familiar with the midday sun and opts for shade and to see Chupacabra’s set.

Uncertainty and overwhelm upon arrival. The seeker arrived to a new town, hustling and bustling as it has for many years. Floyd Fest attendees in 2001 seem more like townsfolk in a small village nestled far away from any industrious city. Everyone goes about their business. No questions. Each and every person appears to have a job, a home, and a role within the community.

This staff security member has been collaboratively painting with the same group for over 10 years.

There might have been plans to have a meeting of the minds and spirits, but the lack of cell service created a mentality of embracing what was, not what could have been. Any plans to meet friends were let go at which point, the true experience began.

Moon is tight

The Celebration

Off in the distance, there was music. Light began seeping onto the edges of the forest. Following blindly on the trail, the hero contorted their way through campsites, following weaving trails until a light began to show.

As the path opened up, a mass of people gathered in the shape of a bowl became illuminated by a flood of beautiful shapes and colors. Attendees entered the area with joy and music. It felt like a dream, looked like a dream, and had the soundtrack of Billy Strings. Everyone was there.

Certain supernatural laws seemed to morph when moving through the dimensional force field that was the gate of Floyd Fest 2021, Friends seemed to appear, exactly at the perfect time, by sheer luck and with a dash of synchronicity. It was often in those moments that we would miraculously have our friends cross paths right in front of us.

Roger Gant composing ideal combinations of shapes and colors for the moment.

It was great to run into friends that I have no seen since shutdown. Usually we get to see each other when I stop in their city for tour. I was not expecting so many reunions.
Roger Gant, lighting director, Billy Strings

A patient Goose (member) Jeff Arevalo waiting for Leftover Salmon to begin.

This was more than just a little town, it was a place for many woodsfolk, elvish types and wizards to gather and celebrate the diversity that has successfully coexisted.

Billy Strings’ bassist Royal Masat

It was a place for young warriors to display the fruits of their training and for elders to inspire support within and between communities.

Goose Connections

One wiser, more experienced female traveler easily recognized the look of wonder and amazement on a young couple’s face. She approached the two after Billy’s encore and asked “Is this your first time?” The two cautiously nodded, unsure of why this was being asked. The elder was elated and welcomed the couple. She had spotted the newcomers early in the night and just had to know if her gut instinct was correct, then promptly welcomed the two. She shared that she had been attending Floyd Fest for more than a decade and it felt just as good in 2021 as it did her first year.

This long time fan of the Grateful Dead was blown away by the kindness of Goose Fans at her first show.

The beautiful thing about gathering for Floyd Fest 2021 is that the travelers and the seekers were able to share Goose through one of the highest energy ultra marathon birthday celebrations to date. Many Floyd regulars had only studied Goose through youtube and live streams, but Friday night, they were able to experience a proper southern Goose Flodown. Feet stomped. Crowd pulsed. Andrew Goedde’s smoke with white lights during “Arcadia” awakened the spirit of Tennessee Ted for the first time since Pelham. It could not only be seen, but also heard thanks to the masterful sound engineering by Sam Bardini.

Bathing in light thrown by Andrew Goedde. It would not have been the moment it was without these lights.

After two and a half hours of anthem after anthem, the young couple ran into the elder as one would in that fantasy fiction we seemed to be living in at Floyd and they were able to ask knowingly, “first time?”

Peter Anspach giving a warm and friendly greeting.

Convergence and Birth

On the eve of the full moon, there was a ritual burning of candles for one chosen bassist. This converged with a chemical reaction from energy between musical newcomers with the wise seasoned ones. The next breakout band emerged from the garden stage around the same time Turkuaz performed their Talking Heads set.

An Empress of Organos

Melt

Melt from NYC had a full and engaged crowd despite fierce competitors at the main stage. Empresses Veronica (vocals) and Marlo (guitar) seranaded the garden stage with dynamic melodies.

An Echo of A Rose, Marlo

Keys and horns dances perfectly with bass and drums. Respect for one’s bandmates for melt looked like laying down during a member’s solo. This band enchanted anyone within earshot.

Melt showing respect for their bandmates

The traveler returned home with tales of strings and salmon as well as intel on Melt for ‘heard them first’ stock brokers everywhere.

Cody the Wise

At the end of the day, Floyd Fest was summed up best by traveler Cody Wimer when he shared his thoughts on Floyd:

Home festival. Best place. Hot days. Cold nights. Music fire.

Moon is tight

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MELT’S EP WEST SIDE HIGHWAY

July 28, 2021
Goose Deep At Silver Lake: A Curated Experience With Blue Skies, Tie Dyes, And The Powerhouse Crew Behind It All

A sea of joyful color and child-like wonder pulsed through the Goose crowd on June 15 and 16 at Silver Lake Twin Drive-in in Perry, NY. Many families emerged for their first time since shutdown and were welcomed by a space glowing with familial care. Permission was given to be fully present for the music. Hospitality at this venue made all the difference for so many in the last year and a half.

What’s better then 1 Goedde Light Show? 2.

Twenty6 Productions staff were able to touch hands at the end of their huddle. Staff reminisced together about all they had been through with jokes beginning with “back in my day.” Grace Vesneske and Josh Holtzman made their intention clear that they were here to support our whole night.

“We are so stoked to celebrate NYS ban being lifted! To kick it off with a power house like Goose make it even more epic. Thank you Twenty6 productions for making dreams come true.” – Josh Eppinger

Attendees painted the lot with their beautifully unique Blue Sky Tie Dye shirts made by “the guy that makes stuff happen” and local sweetheart Phil Vasile.

Jugglers, hula hoops and dragon kites twirled and swirled. The Haus of Peculiar entertainers snapped their fans with unparalleled sass. The character and the characters blended unexpectedly in order to create an upbeat, family vibe.

Goose fans seasoned and fresh here for the ferocity.

The best anecdote to communicate the mood of the night would be when two and a half year old fan Jonah fell on the ground just as the band came on for the second night. He lifted his head as the crowd began cheering and expression shifted to pure joy because he believed they were cheering for his Tumble.

Deep Goose

Experiencing Technicolor with Goedde Sound & Light

What made the night more special was that despite lifting restrictions, many attendees were doing so virtually and with the highest quality viewing experience. Goedde Sound and Light replicated the mood of “Dark Horse” with lights that behaved as if they were a rain stick or gong.

Crescent moon showing up just in time for the start of “Dark Horse” and its complementary lights.

Sam Bardini’s superb mixing allowed for fan Phil Paquet to experience “some deep Goose” from home and have conversation with those that were in attendance as if he and Mr. McGoose were right up there with Crepes.

Strategically placed plant creating a Peter Gabriel jungle vibe.

Danny McDonald traversed the stage with ease, carefully dodging open thermoses of Hot Tea on the cozy stage in order to share the best angles of Peter Anspach slapping his clavinet.

Trevor casually fire bending.

Marta Goedde knowing how to orchestrate angles and vantages to tell a song’s story in layers that have never been set before.

Adam Berta finding E.T.

Adam Berta, perched on the roof of the bathrooms, looked like a character out of a Spielberg movie where aliens are real and anything is possible. He knew exactly where to be and displayed a great balance between passive ninja and gentle direction in order to get some truly unique moments.

Goedde’s lights inviting all to lay back and enjoy

Deep Stashes And ‘Staches

The crowd shared two nights of pure reflective elation. The band went far into the jams and deep into the archives for a crowd that was not afraid to express how much it meant to them. Goose at Perry felt like an extra-terrestrial dream. Well orchestrated on all fronts, we moved on feeling like the war might actually be all over now, Baby Blue.

Phil Vasile (Right) with children both biological and metaphysical

June 15 Setlist: Turned Clouds, Doc Brown, I’m Alright (Kenny Loggins), Make The Move (Kenny Loggins), Danger Zone (Kenny Loggins), A Western Sun, Echo Of A Rose, Into The Myst, Travelers, Its All Over Now Baby Blue (Bob Dylan), Dark Horse, Empress of Organos

June 16 Setlist: Tumble, Doobie Song, Mississippi Half Step Uptown Toodeloo (The Grateful Dead), Wysteria, Innocent Son (Fleet Foxes), Labyrinth, Hot Tea, Electric Avenue (Eddy Grant), Creatures, This Old Sea, Jive II, Jive Lee

Setlists via “The Playbook” via “Coach” Jon Lombardi Facebook page

For more, show a family member the livestream for “Goosemas 2021” that helped comfort us all and introduce so many to what the Goose team has to offer.

June 21, 2021
Goose New Haven 2 Knight Homecoming: The Next Guys to Say “Shenanigans”

On June 12 and 13, at the new Westville Music Bowl in New Haven, CT, Goose presented two unique anthologies, juxtaposed just so. The raw, epic intensity of the first night enabled the spirit of shenanigans and invoked a welcomed fugue where we forget about the factory and fiction became reality. Fortunately, Capt. John O’Hagan was not the one asking, “What happens to the next guy who says “Shenanigans?””

Frankie Bosco inviting shenanigans

The Venue

The Westville Music Bowl felt like home. There was an air of recognition that was difficult to place. The access, the reasonably tight security providing a sense of shelter, and most importantly, there was not a bad seat in the house to be found. Upon reaching the ticketing area, it all made sense. The show was put on by the Twilight company, best known for making sanctuary happen at the beloved, now defunct, South Farms in Morris, CT.

Bunny interpreting an echo of a rose

It was comforting to discover people hanging out behind the bowl for a pre-show jam session and socializing. Alien it felt, but glorious it was – violin, familiar faces and the occasional shenanigans involving small sloths and remote control cars.

Jon “Coach” Lombardi giving his blessing as the show begins

Saturday: “Greg Knight’s Quest for the Holy Jam”

On Saturday, the Goose army assembled and became fully aligned. Tony Vasile, longtime fan, commented, “In Goose country, the long haulers would be more likely to ditch their family Thanksgiving celebration before missing out on this.” The band communicated endless gratitude through their commitment to a flawless execution of the curated evening of music.

Love in the air for royal Goose court minstrel DJ Doey Joey.

As the night progressed and sequined clothing glistened under Andrew Goedde’s superb lights, the crowd appeared to become more cohesive.

Franz Petit Lupen wearing all of this gold

People were chatting on the bathroom line. Jenny Ruthie Pearlman theorized, “People were running into each other for the first time. There had been friendships cultivating over the internet and it was hard to figure out who someone was when our faces were covered. There were songs I loved that came on, but what was more beautiful was that I could think of all the people that were excited not because it was their favorite song too, but because they knew I loved it.”

Man of the hour, Greg Knight catching up with pal Little Baby Crepes

The Battle

Just as we were together in the throes of battle with the elusive pauses during “Earthling of Alien?,” things were getting desperate. Spirits were dwindling in the “Madhuvan” forest.

The army was beginning to doubt their planetary origins when suddenly a Knight by the name of Greg Knight appeared to contribute some reality through his flawless rapped verses. The battle was over and we were rewarded with a sought after and rare “Factory Fiction.” Greg’s last appearance with the band was a year ago during Bingo Tour, which happens to also be the last time we heard “Factory Fiction.” Were they related? I don’t know…

Shenanigans colors tastefully woven in by Andrew Goedde

The first night’s encore finished what they started the night before. After getting the PA cut during the encore of “So Ready” the night before, it was only fitting to start exactly where they left off in New Haven.

“So Ready” music video

But Make It Fashion

The anthology of Goose tales continued with a segue that could not have been more clever. Closing with a tune from their animated music video for “So Ready” was the perfect setup for the capsule-style show similar to the themes they have done with movie soundtracks on Halloween.

Shenanigans Trailer and fashion inspiration

The band showed up on stage wearing their respective outfits and opened with the “Trailer Jam” from their wildly cinematic video announcement for the album Shenanigans Nite Club. Goose and its incredible crew worked so hard over the past few years. Nothing could signify a moment worthy of celebration then a home show “flodown” party than the outfits (and very importantly, the hair) worn by the characters each band member played.

Frankie Bosco relishing

Shenanigans Under The Stars

Sunday kicked off with an upbeat, bubbly energy that was completely reversed, yet somehow, with essence of yin and yang, the band made thoughtful selections to perhaps assist our future long term memories of the weekend to seem as if they were one night. For example, we had a knight for both shows, but this time it was the cover “Knights in White Satin.“

Kevin hamming

Many bands created communities within their following, but Goose created a safe, supportive space for exploration of our own metaphysical dark forest in order to understand which turn might be next in the labyrinth. A fanbase full of artisans, creatives, and empaths. A healthy dose of unquestioned, unchallenged quirk made for a remarkable time for connection during the come up of Goose, especially during shutdown.

Tony Vasile and Orion Jewelry Design’s Val Walis have attended all but two Goose shows this season.

When artisans would post something they made to one of the many Goose Facebook groups, things would not only sell immediately, but the overwhelming support would have been hard to find in any other social group, pandemic or not. Some found even more down this electric avenue.

The elusive Lloyd 2.0

The mood progressed into actually feeling exactly like Thanksgiving dinner. Val Walis commented that “it was a feast of music and so many favorite people everywhere. There was hardly enough time to have a conversation with anyone, but the voltage level of emotion we were all feeling at the same moment did not need words.”

(dawn) Of A New Era

Both sets on Sunday felt like a victory lap of sorts. The aged and trusty jam vehicles like “All I Need” and mustache anthem “Mustang Sally” helped usher in the dawn of a new era for Goose to creep out somewhere along the line with the live debut of “SOS” and its accompanying jam-hymnal (dawn).

Same old shenanigans for Phil Paquet, Mr. McGoose 2.0 and Little Baby Crepes

From the ashes of solitude, we were able to give ourselves permission to go everywhere, see everyone and feel everything. Admirals like Greg Knight kept more in line than we could imagine.

Commander in Scarf Marc Komito basking in the “(dawn)”

The crowd could not have been more friendly. The amount of smiles might almost parallel the amount of scarves on peoples heads used as dance props. There were scarves everywhere!

Marc Komito (aka Scarf Guy) is perpetually the fearless (and fashionable) leader we all needed. He has taught to so many the responsibility we have to relish in these rare, perfect moments. By expressing our gratitude with individuality and without apology, balance is found. For some, it might have looked like giving Mike, from Spafford and JamBandWorkout, a run for his money. For those that prefer to turn inward, simply sitting still and watching with full attention could have been an equally respectful avenue.

Terry Alfredo in the new light

We as a community, felt the light of dawn creeping out while enjoying great music, and hopefully the band and its rock solid crew felt the little bit of ourselves that we tried to send up. Goose got us through it and Coach only knows what might happen as the days get brighter.

Setlist June 12: Me and My Uncle (John Phillips), Flodown, The Whales, Honeybee, Yeti, Seekers on the Ridge Pt., Seekers on the Ridge Pt. 2, Madhuvan>Fish in the Sea (Fat Freddyâs Drop), Jive I, Earthling or Alien?, Tumble > Factory Fiction

Encore: Slow Ready

Setlist June 13: Shenanigans Jam > All I Need > Indian River >Time To Flee > Your Ocean, So Ready >Arrow > Nights In White Satin (Moody Blues), Rosewood Heart > Bob Don > SOS > (dawn)

Encore: Mustang Sally > Butter Rum

It has been rumored that Frankie Bosco gained some kind of super shredding power when he is wearing bracelets from Orion Jewelry Design, made by my sister Val. If you would like to support her (and Little Baby Crepes,) check out https://orionjewelrydesign.com/

Frankie Bosco’s wrist adorned with Orion Jewelry Design Bracelets

Pink strat or bracelet? I don’t know, but it can’t hurt to support your local Goose Chick Val Walis and her jewelry business https://orionjewelrydesign.com/

Want to get in shape for scarf season? Check out this workout featuring a killer version of what some have affectionately nicknamed “Lookout Clav-land”

Curious what all the hype is about with Factory Fiction? Check out this similar, yet different version from the historical Bingo Tour

June 15, 2021
Goose Announces New “Fred” Festival for August 2021

Goose has announced new “Fred” festival. The festival will take place on August 20-22, 2021 in Arrington Virginia on LOCKN’ Farm.

Goose is a band that fluidly travels through genres but generally makes its way back to the Indie-Groove sound. The band hails from Connecticut and is made up of Rick Mitarotonda on vocals and guitar, Peter Anspach on vocals, keys, and guitar, Trevor Weekz on bass, Ben Atkind on drums, and Jeff Arevalo on vocals, percussion, and drums. They recently just released their newest album on June 4, 2021 titled Shenanigans Nite Club.

Goose was supposed to perform at LOCKN’ last year for the first time but unfortunately couldn’t when the festival was cancelled due to COVID-19. Goose’s Peter Anspach spoke on the festival and their experiences not getting to take the stage at LOCKN’ saying, “Last year, we were booked at LOCKN’ and we were so excited to perform on that legendary stage for the first time. We were all pretty disappointed after the festival was canceled so it’s an honor to be invited back to the farm for our own event. Along with an amazing lineup of incredible bands, we have a ton of surprises planned and we can’t wait for all of you to #getinvolved.”

The Fred festival’s line up includes Goose, Dawes, Dr. Dog, Cory Wong, Hiss Golden Messenger, Grateful Shed, aGOOSEtic Trio, Vasudo, Sammy Rae & The Friends, and Elephant Proof.

Tickets went on sale on Friday, June 4, 2021. Tickets for both day passes and weekend camping passes are available. The festival is also hosting Yoga, hiking, and team activities throughout the festivities.

For more information on Fred The Festival visit the website. For more information on Goose visit their website.

June 15, 2021
Hearing Aide: Goose ‘Shenanigans Nite Club’

Preference in music is the very definition of subjectivity, definitively so in fact. Whereas reviewing a live show is more of a this is what happened and what it felt like to be there kind of thing, album reviews, on the other hand, tend to read like conclusive statements of what the reader will hear, feel, or whether the album’s intent will resonate with the reader/listener in any deeper sense. Really though, who am I to lay claim on how an artist’s creation might reach you?

That ledge is the only thing I ever see

I am the sum of my experiences, each and every one of which led me to this time and place and all serve to inform my unique perspective. So to feign objectivity or pass off an album review as anything more than my proprietary interaction with an artist’s intent would be to serve the reader a forced helping of bullshit.

Born in the heat to keep it always out of my reach

Rick Mitarotonda, lead guitarist, vocalist, and chief songwriter for Goose, had this to say with respect to the intent behind his art, “Music at its best form, really encompasses everything that its creators are experiencing. But yeah, it comes back to the point that I think if there is a spiritual intention behind the music you create, whether or not it’s being spelled out… but trying your best to express what’s authentic to you, if that happens to be a spiritual thing, maybe someone will resonate with it and maybe it will open some kind of door for them in some way.”

Grab on a hold each treasure while you go before they turn to sand this man is all alone

*Perhaps* as intended by the artist, but *definitely* as needed by my circumstance, Goose’s latest album reached this audience of one in a heightened state of readiness. “A nine-track collection of music written over the past decade, Shenanigans Nite Club presents musings on a journey through life and a quest for fulfillment, all while saluting the important figures along the way.” As this past year has been one of pervasive loss followed by global healing, never has my quest been more heightened. Perhaps our suffering has differed on both an individual and global scale, but as sure as you’re reading these words, we’re still here, which isn’t to minimize the permanent loss of death experienced by so many, but rather to celebrate the collective transcendence and fulfillment of those who remain.

So ready for this

The opening track to Goose’s first album in five years actually debuted six years ago. A live staple of the modern era setlist dressed up for the studio, “So Ready” and its accompanying instrumental, “(s△ttelite),” are high-energy, disco funk dance tracks whose message is short, sweet, and, like all good art, timely as hell.

Take it slow, I’m burning baby you know

In addition to having an exponentially high fun quotient as a live offering, “Madhuvan’” references the story of Dhruva and his quest for enlightenment, originally written in the Bhagavata Purana. The song is an exploratory journey, examining life’s most beautiful offerings and most dangerous pitfalls.” Wait, what?!?!

If I had it all, if I had it all, what life would leave me satisfied?

Even as its live counterpart often clocks in at twice the length, “Madhuvan” jams twenty minutes of perfection into a ten-minute track, reminding us that on the path to enlightenment, the joy *is* the journey. “SOS” (Same Old Shenanigans)–another old, new song that debuted in 2018 and has only been played live three times–will likely see more play and exploration once summer tour resumes. In the narrative of the album and the pursuit of higher awareness, it warns of the perils and false idols draw our attention.

The power of bottles and cans, when do the answers arrive?

As “Dawn” metaphorically ushers in a new day, that ledge is no longer the only thing I see. Beginning with a reverse chorus, Dawn is the album’s pivotal track, bridging past, present, and future. Says Mitarotonda, “[I] envisioned someone stepping away from this crazy party scene (SOS) and having a moment of self-realization and growth occurring.” One of just two tracks to debut on the album, this stunning and reflective track has yet to be performed live.

It’s a new life creeping out

Literally speaking, “Flodown” could very well be the end of the very same day ushered in by the rising sun of its predecessor, but to me is more likely the backend of a symbolic pilgrimage. While these consecutive tracks couldn’t be more divergent sonically (think square dance vs. acid trip), they are more connected than at first they appear, especially with ambient drones bridging the tracks as lyrical day turns to night.

Been sweatin’ in the haze all day, and somethin’s gotta take this edge away

On the heels of what is likely the most fun song in the Goose catalog, “Spirit Of The Dark Horse” brings an abrupt end to the “rowdiest shindig I ever seen,” at once snapping our attention back to serpentine spirits lying in wait and hiding in plain sight–the devil you know and all that. A serious track, the levity of its intent is inextricably woven into Mitatotonda’s piercing guitar even as Anspach’s keys lighten the outro. Written in 2014, “Dark Horse” and its newly named but accompanying jam “(7hunder)” have recently returned to the live rotation with widespread fan approval after being released as the album’s first single in March of this year.

Dark he fights, won’t let the night steal our soul

If one singular track is to define this record, let it be “The Labyrinth.” A musical odyssey and compositional masterpiece, this wordless juggernaut leaves all interpretation to the listener. Personally, I imagine it to be a reflective trip back through time, not just through the previous eight tracks but through the lifelong journey that brought me to this time and place. You know the old saying, “If I knew then what I know now?” Well, with its happy chords and its bounding solos, its acoustic sentiment and its electric joy, “The Labyrinth” hearkens that passage of time with a heavy sense of accomplishment, of knowing. And what could be more appropriate for a song first written by Mitarotonda for his *high school* band–The Shenanigans, ha!– that we are just hearing now for the first time. “It’s the very old, new thing,” he admits. And while its title suggests a complicated irregular network of paths in which it is difficult to find one’s way, its effect is to imbue the listener with a feeling of having conquered the maze that is life. Transcendence. As the song reaches its conclusion and the track fades away, Peter Anspach’s heartfelt laughter is the last thing we hear. Perfect, just absolutely perfect.

An intricate composition, “The Labyrinth” is an ambitious track even for the studio. Having never been performed live and with summer tour just a few days away, my loins tingle with excitement as I contemplate how this compositional piece will debut in the improvisational setting of a live show. This could easily be the best piece of music in the catalog.

Deep into the forest he will go

I came for the party in the woods, but I stayed because I found a place where my insides match my outsides. The Flodown may have drawn me in, but The Spirit Of The Dark Horse cast its spell. The Universe makes no mistakes, and the emergence of this music and the people it brought into my life are amongst the beautiful offerings that elevated me as I confronted my demons. The human body is an incredible machine, the mind the world’s finest supercomputer. Given our instinctive ability to adapt, getting stuck in The Same Old Shenanigans is almost too easy. Echoing Rick Mitarotonda’s thoughts, “It’s hard to really need to dig, to need to seek when you’re comfortable. Life has a way of driving you to certain places. You’re not going to … start asking questions in a very poignant way until (you) need to.”

No more demon roars

A forced helping of uncomfortability left me So Ready for heady excavation. Now, over a year later, revelations on the personal front, coupled with a change in national leadership and baby steps toward Uniting our States have freed us from our collective Labyrinth. In addition to a seemingly overnight emergence from a year-long pandemic, the stage has been set for an artististic, cultural, and individual Renaissance of biblical proportion. Dawn. If you find yourself unwilling or unable to experience the beauty of the rising sun, consider this timeless quote, “A skeptic is a person who, when he sees the handwriting on the wall, insists it is a forgery.”

Pure pure pure

In a world where authenticity is in woefully short supply, Shenanigans Nite Club is refreshing and honest. But it wasn’t easy. “While we’ve been touring, the record has been happening in the background,” says Mitarotonda. “It’s been quite the process. At times, it was difficult. The record is a companion to those growing pains.” A testament to longevity, focus, hard work, growth, and friendship, it’s also proof positive that everything happens for a reason. Darkness both follows and precedes light. And vice versa. But don’t take the meaning that I found in it, give it a listen and let it speak to you. Can’t wait to see y’all out there as we trudge the road of Happy Destiny.

You know I’m coming back for more

June 11, 2021