Author Archives: Chris Jenkins

NEWPORT, RI | Fort Adams was once again transformed into an oasis of music, arts, and recreation as the yearly tradition for so many had finally arrived—the Newport Folk Festival. Circled on attendees’ calendars nearly a year in advance, there was a heightened level of excitement as day one of this three-day music festival kicked off. The legacy of NFF is one of kindness and inclusion, and this year’s events contributed to that shared joyful experience through the effort of a whole community.

The Newport Folk Festival’s unique charm, built on a love for music, sets it apart from the rest. These pervasive qualities are shared by attendees, employees, and the artists themselves. Fans respectfully embrace new and familiar artists, leading to meaningful experiences for both attendees and performers.

“Happy New Year!” Producer and Executive Director Jay Sweet excitedly greeted a cheerful crowd at the Harbor stage. “I always brag to any person at every other festival—if you want to see what true music fans are like, come to Newport because they are there from the very first note to show up and help support artists, so thank you for being here.”

Sweet introduced the first main act of the day, Nathaniel Rateliff, who started the day off early. “If I get here in the morning, do you think more people will get here to see the younger artists and start this thing off?” Rateliff’s question proved correct as the crowd overflowed into the aisle to be a part of his heartwarming set.

Rateliff greeted the audience, offering kudos for being an “open-minded and open-hearted community here that is one unto itself, and I feel honored and privileged to be here this year. This festival offers the opportunity to better ourselves and leave as better people.” His affection for the NFF crowd served as a prelude to what would be a shared consensus among the performing musicians—love and appreciation for the fans.

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BOSTON, MA | Grammy-nominated genre-bending Houston trio Khruangbin played to an eager crowd outdoors at Suffolk Downs on a cool summer night in New England. Matching the band’s unique and uplifting energy, fans came ready to be transported by Khruangbin’s ever-sharpening live show, celebrating the band’s improvisational prowess.

Suffolk Downs is home to an outdoor venue located East of Boston that benefits from the warm summer sun and cool ocean breeze. The show started as the sun went down and evolved into the night with a moody and intricate lighting display. Khruangbin took to the stage and delivered their unique blend of Middle Eastern guitar melodies, ’90s hip hop drums, reggae/dub bass, psychedelic effects, and disco long into the night with a nineteen-song setlist.

Fans dressed up as members of the band with wigs and in globally inspired outfits. Families with little children donned with ear protection were lounging on blankets in the grass. Concert attendees were indulging in the many food trucks which offered a range of options from ice cream, hot chocolate, grilled cheese, and pizza. Khruangbin has graced nearly every major festival stage in the world, including Glastonbury, Primavera, Coachella, and Newport Folk, and it was evident they were a perfect fit for this venue’s festival vibes. As part of their A La Sala tour, Khruangbin delivered a setlist composed mostly of songs from their latest release, but also delivered their well-known hits.

Although they have been touring in Boston since 2017, it was the first time seeing this band for many of tonight’s attendees. This setlist catered to both the die-hard and those newly added to this dedicated fanbase, which is continuously increasing in size. This tour aptly celebrates the achievements of this record, one that set out to capture “a desire to get back to square one between the three of us, to where we came from—in sonics and in feeling. Let’s get back there,” said Laura Lee Ochoa, bassist.

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BRIDGEPORT, CT | Come Sunday morning the whirlwind of day one at Soundside Music Festival felt like a dream. Memories had been made from a full day packed with impressive live performances, but there wasn’t much time to reminisce as gates opened today before noon. Knowing more of what to expect from day one, concertgoers were prepared to handle today’s test of eleven hours of outdoor music and giving their energy right back to the artists.

Day one may have had higher highs, but day two was consistently exceptional and each artist was one you did not want to miss. With Soundside’s unique rotating stage, fans were able to be present for every moment and not have to choose between performances across multiple stages. The atmosphere in the audience was considerably more relaxed with warmer and dry weather, and a reconfiguration of the general admission pit to allow fans the chance to get even closer to the artists. Fans were representing merch of the artists they were most excited to see, service dogs were getting all the love, and the party was ready to begin.

Southern soul, rock, and gospel husband and wife duo The War and Treaty immediately lifted the spirits of attendees and took them to the church of music on this Sunday morning. Backed by a thunderous bass and drum filled live band, Michael and Tanya Trotter displayed heartfelt and talented vocal deliveries both as individuals and as a harmonizing couple. A setlist blended with original songs and soulful renditions of hits like “Proud Mary,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “Tennessee Whiskey” kept the audience locked in and wanting more.

Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors took to the stage next delivering a warm blend of Americana and folk rock. Starting their set with the welcoming track “Family,” the crowd embraced the appeal to kids and adults as this act came at the perfect time in the day where most children were running around with noise canceling headphones and excited dancing feet. Veterans to the stage, Holcomb was the perfect act that may be the first live musical performance on a stage of this magnitude for many—assuring to make lasting memories. This set was highlighted with a spirited rendition of Tom Petty’s “Runnin’ Down a Dream.”

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BRIDGEPORT, CT | Overlooking the banks of the Long Island Sound lies a 35-acre park which has been home to Connecticut’s largest music festival for the past three years. Soundside Music Festival continues to grow in recognition and popularity for all that it uniquely offers to musical artists and attendees as a premier destination in the Northeast. Held in the last weekend of September, Soundside brings fans from New England, New York, New Jersey and beyond together as the American outdoor festival season nears its end. Featuring 20 incredible artists across two days, fans are treated to performances of their personal favorite musicians from the past, present, and future.

Premium experiences of GA+, VIP, and Skydeck viewing offered premium seats, expedited entry, and exclusive lounge areas complete with their own food vendors and restrooms. Lawn chairs were permitted in the back half of the grounds which allowed attendees to create their own relaxed space. Viewing and hearing the musicians was no issue wherever you were at the festival. Performances took place atop a giant 10 foot tall stage, and multiple towers of premium sound speakers were expertly placed throughout the grounds to provide an optimal experience. Attendees were pampered as they indulged with fifty-seven different food and beverage vendors offering an overwhelming amount of delicious options. A grounds crew continuously worked to keep the park fresh and respectfully presentable.

Featuring twenty musical performances on one giant stage over two days is not an easy feat, but with Soundside’s unique rotating stage setup time is minimal and typically lasts less than ten minutes. While an artist is performing, stagehands will get the next setup completed and prepped. Once the performance is done, the giant backing LED screen behind the artist will lift high enough that the entire stage can turn 180 degrees revealing the instruments for the next act. Fans have just enough time to get another drink and return to their spot to continue enjoying the full day of performances.

The first day of the weekend felt the remnants of Hurricane Helene as strong winds pushed a steady rain sideways throughout the day and into the evening. At one point, a fan released a balloon into the air and as it quickly traveled from stage left to right never touching down. Attendees geared up with ponchos, rain coats, warm blankets, and umbrellas and shared smiles of strength as a testament to the Northeastern spirit to not let these conditions deter them from enjoying this highly anticipated weekend. Lead vocalist of the Goo Goo Dolls John Rzeznik joked with the crowd about how he would not have made it that far into the night. “Even if they announced a reunion of The Beatles I would be long gone by now.” Headliner and local native Noah Kahan also gave the weathered crowd his respect stating, “We’re from New England! This won’t stop us!”

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NEWPORT, RI | Situated at the intersection of the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay, Fort Adams once stood as the last line of defense for the US Army. Last weekend it stood to defend the unique and passionate spirit of the 65th annual Newport Folk Festival. Hosting musicians, artists, vendors, and attendees, this special event has a way to bring everyone together in the sense that they are each contributing to a common goal of honoring and cherishing this festival’s rich history.

For many, this festival serves as a mid-summer vacation, breaking familiar cycles of daily routines and screen usage—an opportunity to slow down, take in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy special moments. The festival grounds are decorated with signs adorned with stylized lettering reminiscent of the sixties—reminding guests to uphold the virtues: “Be Present, Be Open, Be Kind, and Be Together.”

The Newport Folk Festival offers artists the chance to display their music in a new way—typically stripped back acoustic versions of their touring shows. Some artists take this opportunity to perform rare and unique versions of their songs, while others decide to crank up the proverbial volume to eleven and stand out. This adds a level of excitement and anticipation to each performance as attendees spread rumors about what to expect.

Hearing a song for the very first time as it is performed live by an artist can serve as a profound and unforgettable experience for the concertgoer. A special memory is formed in that moment of hearing the true version of a song unaltered by autotune and precise level mixing, and having no idea of what to expect as the song unfolds. This festival gives attendees the opportunity to experience this dozens of times over, exposing them to what can be their song of the summer or new favorite artist. Michael from New Jersey affirmed this idea and added, “Live music is just so much more powerful.”

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BOSTON, MA | In a tidal wave of nostalgia, Grammy-nominated Canadian pop-punk pioneers Sum 41 brought their final headlining world tour to the MGM Music Hall at Fenway supported by ska revivalists The Interrupters. Feeling like a celebration, Sum 41’s greatest hits and stage theatrics elevated the evening to intensely connect the band with the crowd and serve as a fitting farewell.

The Tour Of The Setting Sum showcases their most popular eras during the band’s 27 year career and displays musical diversity, bringing 24 songs ranging from 6 different albums and EPs. It’s an entertaining performance amplified by pyro, fireworks, lasers, pressurized steam, confetti, balloons, multiple backdrops, and a large illuminated skeleton head and bust, engaging generations of fans including many parents with their kids on their shoulders, introducing them to what was their own rite of passage at a younger age.

Lead vocalist and guitarist Deryck Whibley masterfully kept the crowd engaged and the energy level high. During “Underclass Hero” he was able to command the right and left sides of the venue to engage in a call and response with each other shouting the chorus. The more intimate song “With Me,” Deryck had the venue bring the lights all the way down and asked the audience to illuminate the venue with their cell phone flashlights, creating a memorable interactive experience. These moments combined with striking visual displays entertained those who had no previous experience with their music and kept the loyal fanbase on the edge of their feet ready for what was next.

The full power of this band is created by all members who play at a high level with skill and joy. Lead guitarist Dave Baksh led the attack with blistering solos, metal riffs, and a contagious smile. Bassist Jason McCaslin held down the low end and backing vocals, all while continuously searching the crowd for excited attendees to engage with. Drummer Frank Zummo never let up from the first snare hit until the end of the night, continuing to bash his kit with intensity. Tom Thacker rounded out the sound on rhythm guitar, piano, and backing vocals.

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BOSTON, MA | Illustrious singer and lyricist Maynard James Keenan celebrated his 60th birthday in the most rock ‘n’ roll way possible—a nationwide tour showcasing two of his bands and a legacy act. The Sessanta tour, which features Primus, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle kicked off its nationwide tour to a sold-out Boch Center on the first of a two-night residency on Tuesday, April 2. This tour has Keenan moving into center stage where he shines brightly in the spotlight surrounded by fans and friends alike.

There was no opener as all three bands alternated by sharing the stage with sets typically lasting three songs. Musicians from all three bands join each other’s set, a performance unique to this tour. This was exemplified with Keenan joining Primus during a rousing rendition of “Tommy the Cat.” Each of these bands invoke different feelings for listeners with their distinctive sound, but this wide range of musical styles blended together with the design of a well-crafted setlist full of intense and reflective moments. Each band seemed to feed off the previous performance in friendly competition, bringing their best effort into what talent they displayed.

The stage was flanked on either side with stairs that led to party areas with couches and tables with cupcakes, party favors, and alcohol. The middle of that platform had multiple drum kits for Josh Freese (APC), Tim Alexander (Primus), and Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer) who all brought their unique style of play to their set. An impressive lighting display accentuated the music with a background panel of lights behind the bands, string lights above, and spotlights below. Strobe lights and dense fog amplified the current moods of each song. The stage had less free range to roam but felt like a party that everyone was excited to be at.

Primus founder Les Claypool greeted the crowd stating the reason we are here tonight is, “To celebrate Maynard turning sixty years-old, which is not an easy feat.” These performances certainly felt like a celebration. Members were joyfully playing outside their typical role and embracing the special format of this tour. The uniqueness of this concert allowed these musicians to be seen in a different light, one where they had loosened up, and were having fun, but still professionally executing at a high level.

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BOSTON, MA | The first night of Nathaniel Rateliff’s American tour kicked off in Boston in an emotionally charged evening filled with endearing tunes spanning his solo catalog. The “And It’s Still Alright Tour,” which supports the aptly named 2020 record release, picks up where it left off in March of 2020 when it was abruptly canceled nine days after it began due to the pandemic.

In the years since, Nathaniel Rateliff has gone on to release an album and tour with The Night Sweats, but desired to tour in support of a record that means so much to him. Backed by a ten-piece band including a four-string quartet, this performance was an intimate showing that was personal for both the artists and crowd. Unsure if this tour would ever take place, Nathaniel greeted the audience stating he was “so happy to be here … it took years of effort and all of your support doesn’t go unnoticed. I’d say don’t cough on each other, and have a good time.”

It was a chilly night inside the historic Orpheum Theatre which was originally built in 1852, but the capacity crowd was warm and lively. Continually “I love you” was joyfully shouted at Nathaniel, confirming that this night was just as special for his fans. The crowd remained seated during the set, allowing the attendee to fully listen and take in all aspects of this immersive experience. Nathaniel began his set with “Tonight #2” illuminated by an array of Edison light bulbs on stage and faintly lit overhead. The lighting shifted to match the vibe of each tune accompanied by a backdrop display of geometric patterns, scenes of the ocean, forest, and the impression of driving along the highway looking out the window.

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BOSTON, MA | In a full display of skillful musicianship and uplifting songs, the three-time GRAMMY Award winning Zac Brown Band elevated America’s most beloved ballpark a few feet off the ground Saturday, August 19.

Recent inductees to the Fenway Music Hall of Fame (joining only Paul McCartney and Billy Joel), ZBB continues to set the record for sellouts—this being number 14. Fans were given the show of a lifetime as the Zac Brown Band played all their hits and included a few surprises as well.

Taking centerfield at sunset, the band was surrounded by an impressive lighting display, large screens which combined live footage and graphics, and an illuminated antler chandelier. Except for the percussionists, all musicians shared the stage equally—being presented as a unified front. Time in the spotlight was also shared as fans got to see each member highlighted during a musical montage in the encore which combined hits “Chattahoochie,” “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” and “Friends in Low Places,” among others.

Fiddle player Jimmy De Martini wowed the audience with his talent and enthusiasm. Coy Bowles kept the energy high on electric guitar and Hammond organ. Multi-instrumentalist Caroline Jones hopped from one instrument to the other—including a rhinestone studded blue guitar—and brought smooth and warm vocals to the mix. After a rhythmically engaging percussion and drum solo, Zac Brown excitedly jumped back on the mic to introduce Daniel de los Reyes on percussion and Chris Fryar on drums and shouted, “This is the greatest band behind me, ladies and gentlemen!”

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BOSTON, MA | George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic tore the roof off the MGM Music Hall at Fenway on August 17 as part of their “Just For The Funk Of It! Final Tour?!?.” Clinton’s larger than life presence and joyful performance filled the venue and delivered a fun and engaging experience that fans will cherish.

Recipients of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award in 2019 and inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic have had their status cemented in history as musical pioneers and influencers. There is almost an infinitely deep catalog to pull from and enough songs to keep playing until sunrise. Clinton entered the stage with an aura of funk music, royalty donned in a rhinestone studded cap, shimmering gold pants, a flowing black lace coat, and a P-Funk shirt. Dr. Funkenstein’s giant smile never faded as he sang along with the crowd and drew every ounce of excitement out of them.

This set was highlighted with the tracks “One Nation Under a Groove,” “Flash Light,” and “Get Off Your Ass and Jam.” The crowd jolted with energy when the first few notes of “Give Up the Funk (Tear the Roof Off the Sucker)” and “Atomic Dog” rang out. The emotional peak of the night was Michael Hampton’s solo during “Maggot Brain” who put on a cosmically creepy mask to get into the spirit of the tune.

Lansdowne street was buzzing with excitement this night as there also was a country concert at Fenway Park and a show at the House of Blues, but George Clinton’s fans made it very obvious they were there to see the Prime Minister of Funk with their eclectic dress and loud energy. The venue was filled with fans wearing custom psychedelic outfits and shirts from tours in the ’80s, which connected this deep and proud fanbase.

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NEWPORT, RI | As soon as you enter the gates of the Newport Folk Festival, you realize you are a part of something larger than live music. Signs adorned with stylized lettering reminiscent of the sixties remind guests to uphold the virtues “Be Present, Be Open, Be Kind, and Be Together.”

The 64th annual event kicked off with packed crowds along the coast of picturesque Rhode Island amidst a feels-like temp of 100 degrees in the last weekend of July. Attendees happily embraced these conditions during this three day concert with the help of the fest offering sunshades, Del’s Lemonade, sunscreen, water refill stations, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Beth D. from North Kingston, RI shared “this feels historic, a once in a lifetime type of day.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the weekend. It is a music marathon. Experiencing these three days packed with nine hours of live music overlapping on four stages commands you to settle in, clear out the distractions, and to get lost in the performance.

Newport Folk features four stages, with the main stage facing the Atlantic Ocean and the Newport Bridge as a gorgeous backdrop. This year’s lineup consisted of multiple major acts, some of which have never graced these stages before, and others who previously attended and have since risen in stardom to the larger stage. The Newport Folk Festival celebrates a rich history and carries its unique spirit into the experience of today’s attendees.

Day one was highlighted with a surprise performance by none other than James Taylor. Arriving by boat with guitar in hand to a roar of fans in boats and on shore, Taylor was called in at the last minute to replace an ailing artist. As he stepped foot onto the Quad Stage, the audience was overjoyed for this unplanned and intimate performance by the legendary folk artist. He calmly sat down and said, “Well … Surprise!” and flowed right into a moving rendition of “Something In the Way She Moves.” He was joined on stage by his wife and son to sing “Carolina on My Mind” and his Carole King cover “You’ve Got a Friend.” Mixing in personal stories from trying out songs for The Beatles to raising a pig, this set felt surreal and special.

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BOSTON, MA | The bluegrass freight train that is Billy Strings roared into Boston on July 25 for the first of a two-night stay along the inner harbor at the Leader Bank Pavilion. Strings and band were greeted by a thunderous ovation as they kicked off this set with a fitting cover of “Big Ball in Boston.” Expanding bluegrass with an interesting blend of psychedelic, jam band, outlaw country, heavy metal, and Americana brought out a crowd from all walks of life coming together for the love of his music.

String’s success has skyrocketed in recent years, winning the International Bluegrass Music Awards Guitar Player of the Year in both 2019 and 2021, and also a GRAMMY award for Best Bluegrass Album in 2021. Surrounding himself with the talented Billy Failing on banjo, Jarrod Walker on mandolin, Royal Masat on upright bass, and Alex Hargreaves on violin has been integral to giving his music a life of its own as a thrilling live experience.

These consummate bluegrass players elevate these tracks with their top-notch talent, mutual respect, and kinship. Each instrument supports the whole sound and also has a time to stand out and shine with solos that seem to have no time structure—allowing the player to get lost in the moment and bring the crowd to a tense high or mellow low, all while the rest of the band flows right along.

It was apparent this band was not on stage performing songs, but instead they were connecting and playing music. Billy Strings and band could very well have been playing on the front porch of an isolated house in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, but instead were rocking Boston’s outdoor amphitheater bringing a rowdy crowd along for the ride.

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BOSTON, MA | A sold-out Roadrunner crowd was teleported into a dream-pop induced bliss as electronic group M83 blasted off in support of their latest album Fantasy.

M83’s stop in Boston came in the middle of their tour, showcasing the band’s talent as they fired on all cylinders. Fascinating visuals and an incredibly mixed sound engaged the packed house with music filled with pure emotion—evoking unique memories of the past to make a performance personal for each attendee.

As a fan, there is nothing more exciting than a surprise new album announcement and a tour to support—especially a band you weren’t sure you’d ever see live. Since their inception in 1999, M83 has only played six shows in Boston, with the last being in 2016.

Before this announcement, I watched older performances on YouTube to get a sense of how their incredibly produced songs on previous albums translated into a live setting. Primary songwriter and lead vocalist Anthony Gonzalez also used this concept as his central theme for M83’s newest release Fantasy.

“I wanted this record to be very impactful live,” said Gonzalez. “The combination of guitars and synths is always in my music, but it’s maybe more present on this new record than on previous ones.”

M83 kicked off their set with the first three songs in sequential order off this latest release. The band was illuminated by a striking lighting display, at times immersed in fog, and backlit by a screen displaying the four-eyed character featured on Fantasy’s cover. Gonzalez played guitar for the majority of his set, and this seemed to amplify his moving vocals. An immense bass-filled sound was felt deep in your chest and captivated the crowd for the entire set.

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BOSTON, MA | GRAMMY Award-nominated rhythm guitarist and songwriter Cory Wong, and special guests, elevated the sold-out House of Blues to soaring heights on February 25. The Power Station Tour is a showcase of top-tier musicians expressing their love for music, connections with each other, and the crowd. Fueled by high-energy grooves, impressive musicianship, and a band simply having a blast together, the Boston crowd danced and celebrated throughout the night.

Rhythm guitar and the limelight do not typically go together, but Cory Wong shines bright as the center star. Collaborating with musicians on albums and live shows has given his own discography a diversity and depth which has grown his fanbase. Through mastering technique and music theory, Cory continues to push the limits of what has been done and what is possible.

The East Coast dates of this tour feature legendary bassist Victor Wooten, winner of 5 GRAMMY awards and who was also named Bass Player of the Year by Bassist magazine multiple times. Backed by a full band consisting of a drummer, bassist, percussionist, pianist, and a six-piece horn section, this setlist was amplified to give an unforgettable experience. Each band member displayed a mastery of their instrument, including bassist Sonny Thompson and Michael Nelson on trombone—both of whom were members of Prince’s recording and live band for many years.

Supporting the show was pop-folk trio Trousdale, who Cory introduced as his new favorite artist. With a blend of upbeat and softer contemplative tunes, these women offered beautiful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics that warmed the crowd. Longtime fan Walt from Pittsburgh flew into Boston to attend this show, stating “Boston crowds are the best! Tonight I’m expecting incredible musicianship and to feel all the feels.”

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BOSTON, MA | Baltimore’s innovative hardcore force Turnstile tore up Boston for the first of two weekend shows at Roadrunner on November 19th. The intensity of their show propelled this sold out crowd into a frenzy in what felt like a purge of emotion for all involved. Each song was a favorite battle cry for fans as they let off a controlled chaotic energy filled with joy and gratitude. Turnstile offers a unique show that needs to be seen and felt to be truly appreciated.

As the band prepared to take the stage, Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” hyped the crowd up with positivity to set the tone of the night. Turnstile exploded onto the floor, fittingly opening their set with “HOLIDAY” as the night felt very much like one.

Singer Brendan Yates shared the mic with the crowd during emphatic parts of songs, locking in the connection between the band and crowd, making the two feel entwined. Bassist “Freaky” Franz was constantly interacting with fans and headbanging along to the music.

Guitarists Pat McCrory and Greg Cerwonka kept the energy high with tight rhythms and a showcased blend of heavy and ethereal riffs. Drummer Daniel Fang served as the heartbeat by combining punk, latin, and go-go grooves seamlessly. Justin Andrade of Warwick, RI said, “They’re a band that blends a lot of heavier influences with a more alternative / pop flair. Their live shows are where they really shine though—bring your dancing shoes!”

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