Author Archives: Laura Kilgus Jenkins

BOSTON, MA | It was a Big Night Out in Boston as the Goo Goo Dolls filled Leader Bank Pavilion, a popular sea-side outdoor venue in the historic city, with contagious energy.

The Big Night Out tour welcomed O.A.R. as an opener on this leg of their travels and they did not disappoint in more than warming up the crowd as the band brought both their talent and immense energy to the amphitheater. They could have played all night.

The Goo Goo Dolls kicked off their set with those familiar first strums of “Broadway.” As the drums kicked in, so did the excitement of fans. The Goo Goo Dolls really connect with the crowd, many of which are long-time devoted fans, playing one song right into the next with a transition of just a few seconds. With their hits mixed in with brand new songs, this and their band longevity proved they are certainly not stuck in the ’90s. The evening was full and gave everyone a thorough performance.

Fans were loving every minute of it, especially Sabrina Curtis of Dracut, MA. “My boyfriend and I thought the show was amazing! We’ve been fans of the Goo Goo Dolls forever. My boyfriend has seen them live before, but this was my first time. I bought these tickets as a Christmas present for him—it was his ‘big’ gift! They sounded incredible and I was on my feet all night!”

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NEWPORT, RI | Hundreds of boats bobbed in the water alongside the festival’s perimeter, many paddling over to catch an earful of the sweet sounds of the final day of the Newport Folk Festival. The storms that were teased held off until after Saturday’s performance concluded, but brought a welcome break in the weekend heat, a reprieve to keep everyone going and wrap the weekend.

The distinct sounds of the festival only persisted in Sunday’s performances. From bluegrass to gospel and blues, Black Opry Revue showcased alternating artists, storytelling, and song, highlighting Black Americana musicians “working to reclaim their place in the American musical cannon.”

In her set on the Quad Stage, Remi Wolf stood out as a fireball come to life. Equally rebellious and tremendous, her set stretched the limits of the Folk Fest umbrella and might have made traditional folk-ers raise an eyebrow or two. Remi Wolf is a tornado of funk, indie, soul supported by an infectiously fun band.

In celebration of 50 years as a band, the Fort welcomed Los Lobos, whose melting pot of sound shone on the festival’s largest stage. The gentlemen were joined by a friend on this one: alt-folk wonder Neko Case.

Folk Fest Executive Director Jay Sweet spoke of a change in the festival’s mission statement, short and simple declaration, “To create moments of hope through the power of music and community. That’s it,” said Sweet. Over at the Harbor Stage, before introducing M. Ward, a recent add-on as of July 22, Sweet reiterated how important these moments of hope have been for this event.

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NEWPORT, RI | With the dips of the Newport Bridge in the distance, Danielle Ponder sang out across the sea from the biggest stage of the renowned folk fest: an acapella version of Radiohead’s “Creep.” This moving moment with Ponder sending her song out across the waters is a prime example of the Newport Folk phenomenon of living with goosebumps all weekend, the body’s response to the event’s musical magic.

The foot traffic at the Newport Folk Festival increased on Saturday, with more folks continuously navigating to and from the 4 stages situated in Fort Adams, along the Atlantic Ocean. The mid-weekend shows brought out a variety of talents in genres ranging from the indie-rock shredding of The Backseat Lovers to the speedy honky-tonk foot stompin’ of Turnpike Troubadours—who welcomed special guest Tyler Childers for a few songs.

Newport seems to bring out the best in almost everyone, from the attendees to the artists themselves. But, nobody had a bigger smile on their face than Pete Anspach of Goose, whose magnetic grin could be seen from the Fort to the Foundation stage. Goose is a band with buzz and an unmatched chemistry apparent throughout their performance.

John Oates took to the Harbor stage in an acoustic set, using his first Newport Folk performance to pay homage to the festival’s roots, picking Doc Watson’s “Deep River Blues” with Guthrie Trapp accompanying. The passionate lyrics of Jason Isbell’s “Cover Me Up” rang out at the fort, opening a much anticipated and powerful set with his 400 Unit rocking out alongside him.

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MANSFIELD, MA | Country legend Shania Twain brought her electric energy to a deeply fan-centric evening at Xfinity Center, outside of Boston, Sunday, July 9.

There is no question that Twain’s focus of her tour is on the fan experience. The show began with her own surprise reveal from the center of the amphitheater, emerging in a dark dress and studded sunglasses, in the midst of a sea of fans who were simultaneously smiling, screaming, and snapping photos—face-to-face with the (man I feel like a) woman herself.

To add to the otherworldly energy, her futuristic, alien-outlaw themed visual effects only enhanced the magic of the night. The vibe was wonderfully weird, and very joyful, filled with hits—both decades beloved and brand new.

Throughout her performance, Twain offered a handful of fans a more personal experience. For one number, she welcomed select couples from the audience to the stage to watch from dimly lit high-top tables, transforming the space into an elegant and intimate experience for these individuals beaming in awe of Twain: stunning in every sense of the word.

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BOSTON, MA | With pints in the air, the crowd welcomed Los Angeles-based band Dawes to Boston on one of the city’s most festive days of the year: St.Patrick’s Day.

It was a wave of emotion for fans as the rock storytellers brought a mesmerizing show to Roadrunner, showcasing their musicianship on one of those magical nights where the band and audience unite in song (and dance) to make for a shared and unforgettable experience.

As Dawes prepares for a bittersweet sendoff of bassist Wylie Gelber who will soon step away from the lineup for other ventures, there’s no doubt the change will lead to “some kind of newfound strength,” said Taylor Goldsmith, adding a reassuring, “Dawes isn’t going anywhere, I promise.” “I don’t know what being a musician is without him. He has set the bar for what great bass playing sounds like to me,” he said.

This was the 10th show for longtime fan Todd Ferillo of Westford, MA, who enjoyed the performance from the front row with his daughter Charlotte. Charlotte said she was looking forward to hearing “All Your Favorite Bands” which Dawes’ wrapped up their second set with, concluding before Taylor Goldsmith’s acoustic encore of “Things Happen.”

“The most interesting thing about them is that they have evolved so each record has been different from the next and it keeps you interested in what’s going on. It’s not a repetitive thing,” said Ferillo. “It’s a new experience for each record and you kind of want to get that vibe every time they go on tour.”

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MANSFIELD, MA | There was never a dull moment on stage at the Rod Stewart show Friday night in Mansfield, Mass. The 77 year-old British rock and pop singer and songwriter brought every bit of energy, charisma, and showmanship to the Xfinity Center.

The show opened with Cheap Trick, who remains a good rock ‘n roll band, skillful on their instruments and vocals, but with little fan interaction or compelling dynamics on stage. But, there was some renewed enthusiasm in the band thanks in part to Robin Taylor Zander, son of Cheap Trick’s front man Robin Zander. The young Zander plays rhythm guitar and offers vocals. The band played a great mix of songs from their catalog, but for Cheap Trick fans there to hear the hits that’s exactly what they got with show closers: “I Want You To Want Me” and “Surrender/Goodnight.”

Sir Roderick’s set design included a large arch of video displays over the stage, and disco-esque mirror paneling along the band’s platform. The look was sharp and the mood: exhilarating—a feeling like something special was about to happen. A group of female musicians strolled on stage, their seductive and serious expressions a nod to Robert Palmer’s memorable music video, as the man of the hour made his entrance to “Addicted to Love.” Right away, Stewart showed off some signature moves and a cheeky smile for the ladies in the front row.

Stewart was in constant motion, singing his legendary songs and offering tidbits about his writing process and memories of Studio 54. He wiggled, shook his glittered pant leg, and twirled his mic stand like it was 1982. Seventy-seven or 37—he didn’t skip a beat.

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MANSFIELD, MA | It was a “long, hot summer” night—nearly 90 degrees outside of Boston—for Keith Urban’s “The Speed of Now” world tour at The Xfinity Center, an intimate and energy-packed evening.

Ingrid Andress opened the show with a sweet, sassy enthusiasm, and gave several shout outs to those sitting in the “way back” of the venue, recalling that it wasn’t long ago that she was in the grass seats. No stranger to the Boston area, the Berklee College of Music grad expressed an abundant gratitude to the fans and appreciation to be on the bill with Urban. Andress played her recent singles, including “Wishful Drinking.”

Cheryl Leary and her daughter Allison, of Tiverton, RI, traveled from the Ocean State to see Friday’s show. This would be Leary’s 27th Keith Urban concert, and first Urban show since before the height of the pandemic. “My daughter has been coming with me since she was 13 and I just told her that when I’m elderly, she needs to continue to bring me to see Keith Urban,” said Leary, her smile beaming.

Leary said she would travel anywhere to see Urban, adding that she would soon drive up to Gilford, NH to see him play at the Bank of NH Pavilion, two days later. “I listen to him every day. It’s all about Keith Urban. I’m so excited for the show to start—I can’t wait.”

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MANSFIELD, MA | Multi-Platinum singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley was feeling free and easy during his 2022 Beers on Me tour this past weekend, making a stop outside of Boston at Xfinity Center. Showcasing his enthusiastic stage presence, he entertained fans who sang along to more than 20 of his number one singles. “We’ve had a lot of hits over the years and we’re trying to pack them all in for ya’ll,” Bentley said after asking the large crowd for recommendations on where to get the best “chowdah.”

Bentley continues to be a dominant voice for the genre with over 6.4 billion streams of some of country lovers’ favorite hits, including his latest single, “Beers on Me.” During this song on Friday, show opener Travis Denning helped Bentley hand out beers to thirsty fans, tossing cold brews into tipped cowboy hats. Denning and his band hyped up the crowd early on. The performers were grinning the entire set, looking like they were enjoying every moment and working on “lightin’ that summer on up.”

Ashley McBride has been on the ticket, but for the next few shows Elle King jumped on the tour in her place. A great surprise for fans who had the opportunity to hear King’s hits “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)” and “Ex’s & Oh’s.” Her performance did not disappoint. With a husky, sweet sound, an on stage swagger and sly smile, King was unforgettable. Her addition to the tour was also a perfect opportunity for King and Bentley to sing their new song “Worth a Shot.”

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MANSFIELD, MA | The AM Gold tour kicked off at its first stop: The Xfinity Center on Thursday, June 8. The triple bill features Blues Traveler, Jewel, and headliner Train who each brought their own unique performances to the New England amphitheater.

Blues Traveler kicked off the night featuring John Popper’s iconic harmonica skills front and center beginning with “But Anyway,” leading into “Funky Bitch”—a Son Seals cover—followed by “Run Around.” Jewel gave fans her best sports announcer impression, introducing herself off stage, “Next up! Weighing in at 100 unmentionable lbs., we have the folk singer, Jewel!”

“I’m so glad all of you love me more than Paul McCartney,” singer-songwriter Jewel joked as she greeted fans. The beloved Beatle was just miles away performing at Fenway Park that same evening, but there was nowhere else her fans wanted to be. “I feel lucky every single day that I get to play music for a living,” she said as she thanked the audience. “Does anyone remember the Kendall Café? Only 12 of you were there, but that’s where I started in the Boston area.”

Her set featured new songs from her first studio album in seven years, Freewheelin’ Woman, as well as most of her hits, including a stunning vocal on “Foolish Games.” Her new single “Dancing Slow,” features the sweet vocals of Train’s Pat Monahan. Jewel closed with “a little slinkier, a little slower” version of the first song she ever wrote, “Who Will Save Your Soul,” working out a new rhythm with her band and showcasing a jazzier rendition of the ’90s hit.

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BOSTON, MA | WILLOW charmed fans at in Boston Wednesday night with a sold-out electric showcase of vocals, guitar and drums. Connecting with fans as friends, she sang to them as if they were just catching up. Stunning and sweet, each moment between songs was an opportunity for gratitude and WILLOW missed no opportunity to give thanks.

After delighting her audience with songs off of her latest album “Lately I Feel Everything,” WILLOW welcomed to the stage Tyler Cole, who together have performed under the band name The Anxiety. The duo performed their single “Meet Me At Our Spot,” a melodically addicting track that has skyrocketed in success, with credit to both their talents and TikTok for continued viral shares. Cole also shares credits as producer and co-writer for many of the tracks on “Lately I Feel Everything.”

The late July release highlights a pop/punk side of WILLOW that fans have had no trouble embracing. She is in good company on the album with Travis Barker on “Transparent Soul,” “Gaslight” and “Grow” which also features Avril Lavigne.

WILLOW’s Life tour continues through October 19.

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MANSFIELD, MA | Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show made its way to the Xfinity Center on Saturday, October 2, bringing his adored outlaw country sound to a sold out amphitheater.

A golden glow illuminated Stapleton and his band, creating a wild west, dusted haze on stage, as they kicked off the night with “Nobody to Blame” followed by “Parachute”—both of his debut Traveler album. Morgane Stapleton joined her husband on stage, sweetly harmonizing to each song, with a particularly stunning showcase of their vocals, together, on “Millionaire.”

Chris Stapleton was recently named a 2021 CMT Artist of the Year, and in August, released his cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” from The Black Album as part of The Metallica Blacklist, a project celebrating the album’s 30th anniversary.

The crowd had been eagerly waiting to hear the Grammy Award winner since Covid-19 pandemic postponed the performance a year before. Even in the show’s first few moments, hearing Stapleton’s charmed vocals made it obvious that it was worth the wait. “This is our fifth time seeing him,” said Tracy Dickson of Deep River, CT. “We’re super excited to be here. He sounds amazing and always does. We’re so excited.”

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PHOTOS: LAURA KILGUS JENKINS AND CHRIS JENKINS IN MANSFIELD, NH | The air was filled with the scent of incense burning on stage as images of Woodstock illuminated the space, setting the tone for a tour that commemorates the milestone anniversary of Santana’s infamous performance some five decades ago.

Only a few days following the 50th Anniversary of their performance at the Woodstock festival in August 1969, the band named after Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Carlos Santana and the iconic musician himself brought the house down at the Xfinity Center outside of Boston.

Santana’s show is a true bounty of musical stylings. The set featured Latin and African beats, Latin rock, sounds of Jamaica, bluesy vocals, and guitar solos that no-doubt is a check off the Bucket List for long-time fans. Much like a maestro, Santana gestures to bandmates for smooth and subtle arrangement changes all while showcasing the skill of the artists and enriching the overall performance.

Fans were on their feet as the evening began with a hit-filled set from special guests, The Doobie Brothers. “I’d like to hear some funky Dixieland, pretty momma come and take me by the hand…” The Doobie Brothers sang in an engaging sing-a-long with the audience.

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PROVIDENCE, RI | In the midst of a milestone tour celebrating 50 iconic years, country supergroup Alabama brought their “50th Anniversary Tour” to Providence, Rhode Island treating generations of fans to a night of pure Mountain Music.

Over the past 50 years, the band has fostered a long line of accomplishments. They have amassed a staggering 43 #1 hits at country radio and have sold over 73 million albums, earning 21 gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications. They have released 50 albums and won 178 awards including three Grammy Awards and numerous CMA Awards. The band was also named ACM Entertainer of The Year an unprecedented 5 times in a row. They have sold over 28 million concert tickets and are proud members of The Country Music Hall of Fame.

Winning more than 200 industry awards, Alabama is the most celebrated group in country music history. In addition, they are world-class philanthropists who have raised millions of dollars for various charities.

That Alabama is the best-selling country band of all time means they may have some of the most dedicated fans of all time. Kevin Gilliam traveled from Lancaster, Mass., with his wife and friends to see the once in a lifetime show. Gilliam beamed, holding a bow given to him moments earlier by show opener Charlie Daniels, who he has seen five times, but the wait to see Alabama has been long.

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PROVIDENCE, RI | The last date of their winter tour came to a close Saturday night for James Taylor and his All Star Band, along with very special guest Bonnie Raitt, not far from that well-known turnpike from Stockbridge to Boston—in Providence, Rhode Island.

James Taylor walked onto the stage, waving his skully cap to a full house of fans, to introduce his dear friend Bonnie Raitt. He expressed his joy and gratitude for time spent on such a special tour.

“Although this day was a possibility somewhere beyond the horizon, the fact that it has arrived and we are playing our last gig together has really made me verklempt,” he said.

Taylor told fans that he and Raitt both emerged from Boston around the same time in the early 1970s and had very similar, parallel paths throughout the music business and popular culture.

“To me Bonnie has always been the real thing,” he said. “I look to her as an inspiration—always. She’s my very favorite musician on the stage today, on this planet. She is as soulful as she is talented.”

Raitt’s set included many hits including, “Something to Talk About;” a funky INXS cover “Need You Tonight,” and a special delivery of “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” which made a 30 year-old song of heartbreak feel as compelling as ever.

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PHOTOS: LAURA KILGUS JENKINS AND CHRIS JENKINS | Dispatch rocked a packed Blue Hills Bank Pavilion situated on Massachusetts Bay on September 20, as part of the first evening of a two-night stand to wrap up their American summer tour. Beginning in Vail, CO in June, Dispatch’s Summer Tour 2018 spanned the US where they played the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Central Park’s SummerStage in NYC, and two nights in Boston.

One of America’s most successful independent groups played to a packed hometown crowd which consisted of family, friends, and fans from a decades-long career. This heartfelt performance consisted of songs that have not been performed in many years, such as “Cover This” with newer tracks like “Wild Ones” which became an instant classic to their catalog of songs. Location 13, a collection of songs written during their previous album Location 12, will be released on November 16, 2018. The Boston crowd was treated to a cut off this unreleased album called “Don Juan Tango.”

Known and dedicated advocates of gun control, Stokes addressed his concerns and hopes that the country continues to seek effective efforts to reduce gun violence in America. In February, Dispatch released a new song titled “Dear Congress, (17)” following the fatal Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida. “We just don’t want to see it keep happening,” said Stokes. “ We want to call for universal background checks and just gun safety laws that make sense.”

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