Formed nearly 20 years ago on the outskirts of Boston, Ward Hayden & The Outliers have released 9 albums, including South Shore, which was released on May 5. Promoting the album’s release, the band has embarked on tour, with stops this first weekend in May in Syracuse, Rochester, Cleveland, and Columbus.
The May 6 matinée in Rochester at Abilene was their third trip to the area in the past year as they hit up Abilene in the fall as well as playing to a joyous crowd at CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival last June. The Jazz Festival is the first place I had noticed these talented crooners and their sounds have stuck with me. Mellow, insightful, calming sounds that allow you to just sit back, relax and let your worries drift away.
The first release off of South Shore is “Breaking up With My Hometown.” A nice mellow number that many people can relate to as they move on from the only surroundings they know. In a recent interview, Hayden says “It was very hard to move on, but you have to leave home if you want to grow. It’s hard to tap into those emotions if you haven’t been anywhere else.”
With his “pillowy voice of 50s pin-up star” (according to Boston Globe) Ward Hayden & The Outliers 9th studio album is nothing short of spectacular. Starting with “I Can Write a Song About It” to get you deep into thought, South Shore continues with “Hush,” “South Shore,” “Crazy Love,” “Gasoline,” “Things These Days,” “Blink of an Eye,” “I Can’t Wake Up,” “(Breaking Up with) My Hometown,” and “The Great Unknown.”
Like previous albums every song tells a story, especially the title track “South Shore.” This is an ode to where Hayden grew up. Having moved numerous times, his family finally settled down in Scituate, about 30 miles from Boston. The song talks of his personal struggle of leaving Scituate to discover life and who he was and then having to return as the pandemic took a hold of the country. “The Great Unknown” is about life and all that nobody really knows, deep thoughts that Jack Handy would be proud of. Crazy Love is about just that, crazy love. Was it a first crush? First long term relationship? It doesn’t matter, we have all been there to certain degree.
And I left home for a while to see where I belonged. I searched high and low for a place to call home, but it all felt wrong. And people say, “You can never go home”, But I like to think that ain’t so ‘cause if it is I’ve got nowhere to go
The band includes Josh Kiggans on drums, Cody Nilsen on guitar & Pedal Steel, Greg Hall on upright & electric bass Ward Hayden Vocals & Guitar
It was 46 years ago today that one of the most notable Grateful Dead shows ever was performed at Barton Hall at Cornell University on May 8, 1977. One of the most revered and traded shows in the band’s history, the Barton Hall show is a thing of legend, a perfect way to introduce new fans to the band and a performance for the ages with stand out versions of numerous Dead songs.
The band played its first of three shows at Cornell (1977, 1980, and 1981) on May 8, 1977, and were booked by the Cornell Concert Commission after some troubles with booking live acts in the years prior. However, this was not the first live campus appearance from the Grateful Dead members. Jerry Garcia Band had performed at Cornell’s Bailey Hall less than two years prior on October 27, 1975. The lineup for the May 1977 show included the core of Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Bob Weir, Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann, as well as Donna and Keith Godcheaux.
Cornell ’77 Poster designed by Cornell alumnus Jay Maybrey
In past years, the Cornell Chimes have commemorated the day with a performance of Grateful Dead tunes on a set of bells housed in historic McGraw Tower. One of the university’s oldest musical traditions, the 21-bells are played primarily by student chimesmasters.
Grateful Dead at Barton Hall, Cornell University, May 8, 1977
Set 1: New Minglewood Blues, Loser, El Paso, They Love Each Other, Jack Straw, Deal, Lazy Lightnin’, Supplication Blues, Brown Eyed Women, Mama Tried, Row Jimmy, Dancin’ in the Streets
Set 2: Scarlet Begonias > Fire on the Mountain, Estimated Prophet, St. Stephen > Not Fade Away > St. Stephen, Morning Dew
A quick walk through Syracuse’s Armory Square on the evening of Thursday, May 4 would have provided an astute listener the sounds to give hope that another winter was behind us. Conversation drifted from sidewalk tables, birds sang from nearby trees, and the music of Mikaela Davis poured from Syracuse’s Funk ’n Waffles, as the band kicked off their “Here Comes Sunshine” spring residency. This was the first of three scheduled performances at Funk ‘n Waffles for the band.
Davis, a native of Rochester, is a classically trained harpist who has toured extensively over the last decade. She has built the reputation of being one of the brightest rising stars in the music industry. In 2018 she released her debut solo album, Delivery. Soon after the release, she joined forces with her backing band Southern Star. The band, who consist of brothers Shane (bass guitar) and Cian McCarthy (guitar), Alex Cote (drums) and Kurt Johnson (pedal steel, guitar), have compiled an impressive touring resume. They have previously shared the stage with artists such as Bob Weir, Bon Iver, Lake Street Dive, and will tour with The Mountain Goats and later this year. The five members have contributed to the band’s unique and refreshing sound.
Of late, the band has become known for their seasonal residency concerts; three concerts over consecutive weeks in the same city. The concert consists of two sets of music; one set of original music, and a second set of Grateful Dead covers. After selling out many residency shows across New York State this past winter, the band have again returned for a spring slate.
Shortly after 8pm the band took to the stage and launched into the groovy “Don’t Stop Now”. The song’s drum and bass rhythm would soon be joined by the familiar sounds of Davis’s harp plucking and the night would be under way. The first set would consist of tracks from 2018’s Delivery as well as offerings from the band’s upcoming release And Southern Star. The songs placed Davis’s talents on full display, with her vocals and signature harp style blending beautifully with the band’s accompaniment. A highlight of the first set would be the band’s performance of“Far From You”, the the hauntingly beautiful first offering off of And Southern Star.
After a short intermission, the band would return to the stage for a set consisting entirely of Grateful Dead covers. The stage, which was draped in bohemian decor, offered a fitting backdrop for the remainder of the evening. During this portion of the evening, the band’s musical talent’s were really able to shine. Grateful Dead classics turned in to musical jam sessions, while the near capacity audience filled the area closest to the stage and danced along. During one jam session, Davis abandoned her seat at the harp, and each band member took a different percussive instrument. They led the audience on an extended drum solo jam, much to the audiences’ delight.
After a brief encore, the band returned to the stage and closed out the evening with their rendition of Grateful Dead’s “Bird Song”. The combination of Davis’s vocals and harp playing allowed for the classic track to soar to new heights. The evening’s combination of original music along with Grateful Dead classics make for an evening of must see music. Be sure to catch the band on one of their upcoming residency shows.
Friday, May 5th was the return of Billy Idol to Niagara Falls at the Fallsview Casino in Ontario, Canada. Before Billy Idol took the stage, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines opened the night with their unique blend of rock and pop. The energy of the crowd was palpable as they eagerly awaited the start of the concert.
Unfortunately, the band faced some challenges as two of their members were denied entry into Canada, resulting in a more mellow set than they had originally planned. Despite this setback, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines still impressed with their impressive vocals and dynamic stage presence.
Kelsey Karter’s voice was a highlight of the performance, soaring effortlessly over the band’s catchy melodies. Their set included original songs such as “Bad News,” “Harry,” and “God Knows I’ve Tried,” showcasing their songwriting skills and musical prowess. Despite the unplanned changes, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines still managed to get the audience excited for the main event. Their performance was a great warm-up for Billy Idol, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
Overall, the night was a success, with Kelsey Karter & The Heroines paving the way for Billy Idol’s explosive performance. Despite the challenges they faced, they still managed to put on an impressive show and get the audience hyped up for what was to come.
Billy Idol
The setlist was fantastic, featuring a mix of Billy Idol’s classic hits and fan favorites. The show started with “Dancing With Myself,” a Generation X song that got the crowd pumped up right from the start. Other hits like “Cradle of Love,” “Flesh for Fantasy,” and “Eyes Without a Face” had everyone singing along. Steve Stevens’ guitar solo was a real showstopper, with him playing Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hills and Far Away” and “Stairway to Heaven” to the delight of the audience. “Mony Mony,” a Tommy James & the Shondells cover, got the crowd moving and grooving.
The setlist also included lesser-known tracks like “Running From the Ghost” and “One Hundred Punks,” which showed off the depth and range of Billy Idol’s music. The Blue Highway/Top Gun Anthem medley was a lovely tribute to the late composer Harold Faltermeyer. The encore was phenomenal, with Billy Idol belting out “Hot in the City” and “White Wedding.” The night ended on a high note with the entire audience singing along to “Happy Birthday to You” in honor of Steve Stevens.
Overall, the Billy Idol concert at Fallsview Casino was an unforgettable experience. The setlist was impressive, and the performance was top-notch. Billy Idol and his band proved that they still know how to rock the stage after all these years, and the celebration of Steve Stevens’ birthday made the night all the more special. If you ever get a chance to see Billy Idol live, we highly recommend it! For more information about the tour, and to see Idol live, visit here.
Brooklyn’s 4-piece indie band Tennis Courts have just released their latest single “Am I Not Talking Enough” on May 3rd. The song is about the realization of how it feels to be not young anymore, but also not old either.
Consisting of the singer/songwriter duo of Pat Walsh and Andrew Clarke, lead guitarist Brian McKenna and bassist Spencer Brigman, the band started writing songs together in college in Charleston, SC before moving to Brooklyn in 2022. Tennis Courts’ sound overall offers a delicate mix of indie, folk, and power pop.
Of the new single, Walsh says, “This song is probably the most personal song we’ve ever put out. It’s about a lot of things, but I think it’s mostly just about how I have felt over the last year. I’ve spent a lot of time coming to terms with myself, how I fit in the world, and how I fit into other people’s lives. I spend a lot of time examining my relationship with myself, family, friends, and partners. And at the end of the day, maybe I am just thinking too much.”
“Pensive and gorgeous, opening with acoustic strums accompanying subdued vocals, swelling with atmospheric treatments until the full band kicks in for a stunning final movement.”
– Tuned Up
The band has played countless shows with Dogwood Tales, Sun Room, Hotel Fiction, Sonic Blume, Mo Lowda + The Humble, Wakelee, Daddy’s Beemer, Teenage Halloween, Easy Honey and many more. Tennis Courts forthcoming LP, which will come out later this year, was produced by Erik Kase Romero (The Front Bottoms, Lorde, Dogwood Tales).
Tennis Courts will also be accompanying Charlie & Margot on June 22nd at the Bond Street Basement in Asbury Park, NJ. For more information on this upcoming event, click the link here.
To listen to “Am I Not Talking Enough,” click the link here.
For more music by Tennis Courts and more information on upcoming shows, click the link here.
Each Sunday evening from 7-9 p.m. you’ll find EQXposure on WEQX, featuring two hours of local music from up-and-coming artists. Tune into WEQX.com this Sunday night to hear new music from Annie Scherer, 10:01, and The Sugar Hold.
WEQX has long been the preeminent independent station in the Capital Region of New York, broadcasting from Southern VT to an ever-expanding listening audience. NYS Music brings you a preview of artists to discover each week, just a taste of the talent waiting to be discovered by fans like you.
Annie Scherer-“Everywhere I Go ( Everybody’s the Same)”
Annie Scherer is a Voorheesville native, merging her love of rock ‘n roll classics with her passion for alternative music to produce her own unique sound. Her emotional lyrics and haunting melodies have been heard live from New York to Tennessee, releasing her first full-length album Garden Bed in March 2021.
10:01-“Flying Home”
Formed in Averill Park, NY, 10:01 is an alternative rock group that combines a modern indie sound with influences of blues and rock. Their new single “Flying Home” is out now.
The Sugar Hold are indie surf rock band based in Schenectady. Fairly new to the scene, they are known for their hard-partying ways and their funny off-the-wall songs and lyrics.
Brooklyn-based R&B/Soul band 79.5 has had a busy year – their new single, “Long Term Parking,” was released with an accompanying music video ahead of their self-titled sophomore LP out May 5 .
The band’s tour will make a stop at their home base at Brooklyn Made on June 2. The summer-ready record has earned support from KCRW’s “Today’s Top Tune”, Under The Radar, CABBAGES, SPIN, Ones To Watch, and more.
Cover art for “Long Term Parking” the single 79.5 released ahead of their self-titled second LP with a supporting music video. Credit: Charm School Media.
The band’s self-titled LP takes fans on a magical journey from start to finish, and it’s safe to say 79.5 will relay this same energy live on their tour. “Club Level” starts the LP off perfectly, with a disco sound that makes you want to get up and dance. “Long Term Parking,” perfectly portrays the feeling of being in a relationship so powerful and complicated, that even with a tragic ending, the love forever remains. Other highlights include “B.D.F.Q.,” and “Feel Like Dancin’.” Brooklyn’s 79.5 are sure to have a long and successful career ahead of them.
Named after an imaginary radio station, Brooklyn’s 79.5 was formed in 2010 by Kate Mattison, who was later joined by singer and rapper Lola Adanna and sax player/flautist Izaak Mills with drummer Caito Sanchez and bassist Andrew Raposo rounding out the rhythm section. The sound of 79.5 is full-bodied and straight from the heart—recalling the thrilling work of Patrice Rushen and the type of dance music that’s been the beating heart of New York City for centuries. Prior to their upcoming self-titled LP, 79.5 self-released an album, Predictions, in 2018.
Music by 79.5, including their upcoming self-titled LP, is now streaming, and tickets for their upcoming tour, which includes a show at Brooklyn Made, is out now.
It was a heavy night of sonic improv and heavy themes at Lark Hall on April 26th, when enduring jam band veterans Perpetual Groove made their long-awaited return to Albany. Tackling topics of loss and regret, redemption and hope, the band was at the top of their game and demonstrated a level of musical maturity and precision that can only come from decades of playing together. Commemorating 20 years since the group’s breakout album, Sweet Oblivious Antidote, the evening also marked the debut of the venue’s brand new disco ball.
Perpetual Groove made their Lark Hall debut on 4/26/2023
Kicking things around 8pm, The Social Assassins got things off to a loud and progressive start. Featuring fusion guitarist virtuoso Gabriel Marin of Consider the Source, the band has only played handful of live shows together since their debuting in October of last year. Marin, along with his trademark Vigier double neck guitar and a bevy of effects pedals, took us on a sonic journey through instrumentals like “Begrudging Acquiescence” and “The Red Hour,” while his high energy band of Assassins pummeled away on songs like “Hora Attik” and “Blood Boi.” Playing before a moderate crowd of concert goers on this Wednesday night, the band turned in a max effort performance for those who were there to appreciate it. A fusion of eastern influences mixed with everything from metal and disco, The Social Assassins surprised everyone with their unique sound, especially on their set closing version of A-ha’s classic sing along “Take On Me.”
Watch fan shot footage of Social Assassins performing “Take On Me” at Lark Hall on 4/26/23
After a brief intermission, it was officially time for Perpetual Groove to launch the Lark Hall crowd into orbit. Originally formed in 1997, the Athens, GA based quartet opened their single set performance with “Save For One” from 2007’s Live Love Die album. Sounding fantastic from the opening note to the last, guitarist/vocalist Brock Butler would lead P-Groove straight into a heady version of “Stealy Man” that saw the crowd let out collective cheers and head bangs when it’s extended jam dipped into the ‘heavy’ section before shifting gears into the first cover of the night with The Cars classic song “Drive,” and then finally returning to “Stealy Man” to complete an impressive 30+ minutes of uninterrupted music to start the show. After a few welcoming words, the groove would pick up again with another oldie in 2005’s “Andromeda.”
Watch fan shot footage of Perpetual Groove “Stealy Man” and “Drive” at Lark Hall on 4/26/23
Despite it being the 20th anniversary of the bands Sweet Oblivious Antidote album, Perpetual-Groove would only play one song from it, “TSM2.” Laying down the tastiest of bass lines, Adam Perry stole the show next on a well-received version of “Crockett and Tubbs” that got the whole place dancing. A bit of a deep cut in “Cairo” was next, allowing keyboardist Matthew McDonald a chance to stretch out both musically and physically. The burley chairman’s other-worldly synth textures were magnified all evening long thanks in part to the venue’s brand-new disco ball that was also making it’s Lark Hall debut during this performance.
It’s been 20 years since Perpetual Groove released their breakout album Sweet Oblivious Antidote
Perhaps the highlight of the show came next when P-Groove would uncork a monstrous version of the hard rocking “Speed Queen” bolstered by Butler’s trademark precision and the heavy hands of the newest member of the band, drummer Darren Stanley, who joined in 2022 after spending time with Jimmy Hearing and Col. Bruce Hampton. The thunderous and cathartic peak would seamlessly transition into a beautiful and introspective version of “Out Here,” a longtime live favorite that was only recently given the studio treatment. Following that up with one of Butler’s most personal songs was “It Starts Where It Ends.” Wailing away on his signature Stratocaster with eyes closed and his back arched, the song featured some of the most expressive playing of the night. Seamlessly transitioning into the set closing “Space Paranoids,” the band performed like a well-oiled machine and spoke a musical language unto themselves, effortlessly communicating changes just by exchanging glances at each other.
Watch fan shot footage of Perpetual Groove performing “It Starts Where It Ends” during their Lark Hall on debut 4/26/23
Rather than go through the typical rigmarole of exiting the stage prior to the encore, P-Groove would simply tell fans this will be their last song of the night and thanked them for coming out to their Lark Hall debut. Opting to go with a crowd-pleasing cover of Talking Heads “This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody),” coincidently the same song had also been covered by Ryan Montbleau at the venue just one week prior. Whether by choice or by happy accident, an agreeable theme appears to be emerging at Albany’s newest concert spot. After yet another night of stellar musicianship, improvisation and overall good vibes, if Lark Hall isn’t the place, then I don’t know what is.
Perpetual Groove | April 26, 2023 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Save For One > Stealy Man > Drive* > Stealy Man, Andromeda, TSM2, Crockett & Tubbs, Cairo, Speed Queen > Out Here, It Starts Where It Ends > Space Paranoids
Encore: This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody)**
*The Cars cover
**Talking Heads cover
Social Assassins | April 26, 2023 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Begrudging Acquiescence, The Red Hour, Hora Attik, Blood Boi, A Well-Placed Pen, Take on Me*
Pete Mancini is a welcomed troubadour for our times, by building community though his music. His lyric are as comfortable as your favorite weather-worn blue jeans, and his style is reminiscent of Tom Petty and Hank Williams, with a hint of John Prine. Looking for some new music to add to your playlist? Check out Pete Mancini’s latest EP release, The Commonwealth Sessions Volume 1.
With Mancini’s signature blend of Americana and folk, this EP is sure to be a hit with music lovers of all kinds. Over the years, Mancini has opened for acts such as Jimmy Webb, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Pure Prairie League, Robbie Fulks, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, Kevin Gordon, and Iain Matthews.
I was fortunate to stumble on Mancini over a year ago during the pioneering days of The Long Island Sound podcast. Pete was one of my early guests on the podast and I was fortunate enough to sit down with him and talk about his travels and ever growing catalog of songs on the most recent episode out today. Pete Mancini keeps popping up on my radar. In a soon-to-be episode of The Long Island Sound Podcast, I interviewed Bill Herman of Paradiddle Records only to find Pete singing on the opening track of the Hank Williams Uncovered album, “Lovesick Blues” to perfection. More to come on the Hank Williams’ project on May 12th. You can find a deeper conversation with Pete Mancini right here on The Long Island Sound.
Commonwealth Music Sessions
The feeling of loneliness, isolation and lack of companionship have been on the rise in the past few years. Covering the music scene in this little corner of New York State, I often search for connection and community, pleasantly surprised to pick up on a musican who lifts me up, and welcomes me into their world. I found artists who love their labor, while patching us up with their original music. Pete Mancini is a craftsman and consumate performer, a troubador who on track, in my opinion to be the next Gordon Lightfoot. The late Gordon Lightfoot (passed away on May 1st), was a favorite of both John Prine and Bob Dylan. I hear a thread of Gordon in Mancini’s music as he is admired as well among the community of musicians on Long Island.
New EP Release
Mancini, a prolific songwriter, had just buttoned up some thirty songs for his next album, yet to be released. There were five songs, which didn’t fit the theme of the pending album, so Pete decided to release an EP on May 5th called, The Commonwealth Music Sessions, Volume One, which can be found here at his Bandcamp site. Pete assembled a fine group of musicians who played on the EP, including Joe Leone, Delaney Hafener and Nick Balzano.
EP’s are often used to keep an artist’s audience engaged. Listenting to his latest EP, I found myself craving for more and maybe that’s the unintended consequence for a fan on releasing an EP with an album in the wings. Pete gave me an exclusive preview of the opening song, “Golden Hour” on our quickie podcast interview being released today. A great commentary on vanity, and the images we build up in seeking admoration and attention.
Lamenting Loss
The passing of good friend and collaborator, especially one so close becomes pain that dwells deep in one’s heart. On September 16, 2021, Travis McKeveny, a well-respected singer/songwriter from Long Island, passed away. Pete often mentions the impact Travis had on his craft, and how much he learned from him. Pete is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, playing the music of Travis McKeveny. There’s no better way to pay tribute to those who built us up, than by performing their music with friends.
He was my brother in arms, in music and in life. I miss him dearly.
Pete Mancini
Upcoming Shows
You can find Pete Mancini paying all around from New York City to various venues on Long Island. Friday, May 5th, Pete will be opening up for Rhett Miller at My Father’s Place in Glen Cove. On May 13th, in support of Labor and the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Pete joins a wonderful lineup of artists at the Bald Hill Ampitheater for the Mayday Music Festival, including Blues Traveler, The Wallflowers, Wheatus, John Hampson (Singer Nine Days/”Absolutely (Story of a Girl)”), and The Belle Curves (Delaney Haefner, a recent guest on the podcast)
Leave the Loneliness Behind
Old man gushing alert! I’ve interviewed many artists over the past year and a half. From time to time, I become enamored with the music and the musician. Pete Mancini is a rising star in my book, and a must-see performer who keenly observes the world around us, articulating needed insights, while entertaining in a folksy manner. We can listen to music on our favorite platforms, but there’s nothing that replaces the live performance! Pete Mancini was generous enough to join Mike Nugent and The Blue Moon Band for an experiment of sorts, called The Long Island Sound Showcase. We did a livesteam podcast, featuring Nugent as the main act and Mancini performing the second set.
During the show we all got to experience Mancini as he welcomed the audience into his world and entertained us though song and conversation. I’ll take pride in being a broken-record preacher of the benefits of live local performances! I emplore of all us to heal though the music, and confront the isolation and loneliness by getting out to hear the music. To hear the full interview with Pete Mancini, search for The Long Island Sound, wherever you listen to podcasts. As I say, “Be generous with your joy, keep your spirits high, and let the music take you on a journey.”
Sam Snyder is a guitar slinging legend on the Rochester scene, most notably as a member of Maybird, but if you’ve seen live music in town for any period of time, you’ve likely seen him play with countless bands. He has the highly unusual method of playing overhand, which is where the more familiar name Overhand Sam comes in. It seems like it would be inhibitive, or perhaps a fun gimmick, but neither is close to the truth. He’ll turn heads first with his style, but his playing commands full attention soon after.
His band, Overhand Sam and Bad Weapon, rose from the ashes of the great Thunder Body. Dennis Mariano and Snyder were both guitarists in that band, and Benton Sillick played trumpet. With Snyder still on guitar, Mariano on drums, and Sillick on bass, the core of Overhand Sam and Bad Weapon was born. They’ve been kicking around town with sporadic shows for years. 2023 however has seen them break out of relative obscurity with more shows, a fuller tighter sound and a greater sense of purpose.
At their headlining show at the Bug Jar on April 29, the Weapons were set to stun. Rounded out with Sam Hirsch on keys and Cooper Alexander on percussion, they took the stage and promptly erupted into a manic flourish of sound. The audience didn’t have much chance to get their bearings. The opening salvo called them into the room like a siren song, but they walked right into a hold-on-for-dear-life situation. The trap set, the prey caught, the band relented and settled it into a nice groove. Spinning heads reoriented into the more comfortable rock n roll head bob.
They weren’t in any rush, letting the grooves completely permeate the room and melt into the appropriately trippy walls and surroundings. Snyder broke in with vocals here and there, but the instruments commanded the night. Mariano’s drums were a maelstrom, pulling and pushing the music into new directions at will. Guitar, bass, keys and percussion swirled into one, sending off a typhoon of psychedelia. Snyder then took control, showcasing his shredding creds with piercing solos. He and Mariano found themselves in cooperative battles, and the victims in the audience were more than happy to submit and surrender.
Songs flowed from one to the next, flipping from jaunty and hooky to manic and driving to rhythmic and rocking. The set consisted mostly from their album, Bad Weapon. Initially out as a limited release vinyl, they just recently re-released it digitally, giving anyone with internet instant access to these stellar sounds. Highly recommended!
Another album recently out that is a must-hear is DM Stith’s Fata Morgana. The singer brought along folk duo Archimedes to present his new tunes, their gorgeous harmonies and sparse guitar accompaniment gave his stellar songs a beautiful rendering on stage.
Stith returned to Rochester during the pandemic after spending time in New York City, eventually working toward the music for the album, which is named for a phenomenon that occurs on Lake Ontario, a sort of mirage appearing just over the horizon, which fit in with the album’s theme of grace in nature. He described Rochester as cozy and welcoming, and that would be a pretty spot on descriptor of the music as well. It was about as lovely a set as you’re going to get at the Bug Jar.
Second up on the evening was Sun Parade, returning to the Bug Jar from their home in Northampton Massachusetts for the first time in many years. Missing their keyboard player, they played as a quartet, two guitars, bass and drums. Overhand Sam was playing from a re-released album, Stith playing from his brand new album, so it was only appropriate that Sun Parade was playing a bunch from their not-quite-out-yet-not-even-quite-finished album. Decades worth of rock influence came together for some catchy and groovy tunes that delighted the crowd. And a delighted and engaged crowd in turn delighted and impressed the band who were genuinely excited at the positive responses to their music. Hopefully they’ll be back a bit sooner this time, with new album in tow.
Each set took on a life of it’s own, it didn’t feel like one was opening for another. It was almost like getting three shows for the price of one, and for twelve bucks that was money well spent!
Overhand Sam and Bad Weapon continue their busy year with a show at Three Heads Brewing on Saturday, May 20. Don’t miss out!
