Tag: Live

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Band of the Week Concert Reviews

Band of the Week: Only Living Boy

This past Friday I caught Only Living Boy‘s performance at The Court Tavern in New Brunswick. Performing a 45-minute set, the Jersey-based band impressed with their ear-grabbing guitar riffs and infinite energy. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I’ve been at a show when a band’s improvisation was so captivating.

The three-piece, which consists of frontman Joe Cirotti on guitar, bassist Eric Curley and drummer Trevor Newcomb, had the room packed as they played songs from their self-titled debut release. While their alternative rock brings to mind classic 70s acts, it is perhaps no wonder that their name was inspired by Simon & Garfunkel’s 1970 song “Only Living Boy in New York.”

Not new to the music scene, Only Living Boy has been playing together in various forms, perhaps most familiar as Rabid Roy. About to embark on an East Coast tour, the band has shared the stage with notable acts like the New York Dolls.

Only Living Boy has a sound that stands out from other up-and-coming acts today. Niki Coate of WNTI described it best: “a combination of the psych rock inherited from their parents’ vinyl and the alternative rock of their own MTV adolescence.”

“My Friend,” a song Cirotti said is about his dog, brings to mind the Woodstock era and guitar-centric jams of legends like Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana while “My Heart Is Burning” has an edgy, almost country rock vibe to it. Cirotti’s vocals are captivating as the accompanying percussion and guitar interlude portrays his ongoing angst told within the story of the song.

Additionally, tracks like “How Lovers Have a Ball” continue to exemplify the band’s versatility and timelessness. While some songs transform the listener to another era, others maintain a certain charm and relevancy, continuing to keep Only Living Boy on the cusp of a constantly changing music industry.

For more on Only Living Boy and upcoming tour dates be sure to visit their MySpace. To listen to a stream of current single, “Worthless,” click here. To listen to “Homesick,” click here.

Categories
Benefit Features

(RED)NIGHTS: A Concert That Saves Lives

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocUn3_p3Do8]

I’m sure many of you have heard of (RED), or come across advertisements in Starbucks, Gap, Hallmark, Apple and many other locations. The company was founded by Bono of U2 and Bobby Shriver of DATA to raise money for the Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. (RED) works with companies that create products where a percentage of the profit from each product sold is given directly to Africa to provide medication and help those in need.

In addition to partnering with various brands, (RED) works with artists to create (RED)Nights where the money made from each concert helps save lives. Previous artist activists have included Santigold, O.A.R., The Veronicas, Lisa Hannigan (see above video) and more.

The fall line-up has just been announced and includes concerts by Ingrid Michaelson, Joshua Radin, Brandi Carlile and more. Check out the tour dates below and for more on (RED) visit the Web site here.

Ingrid Michaelson @ Paradise, Boston on September 12th & at the House of Blues, San Diego on October 3rd

Sondre Lerche @ Paradise, Boston on September 13th

Joshua Radin @ the House of Blues, Chicago on September 24th

Brandi Carlile @ the House of Blues, Chicago on September 25th

Thievery Corporation @ the House of Blues, Dallas on October 4th & @ the Fillmore, Miami on October 9th

Built To Spill @ the Fillmore, San Francisco on October 31st & November 1st

The (RED)NIGHTS Web site provides live video footage as well as photo and video uploads for those who attended the show. Watch above for a recap of Lisa Hannigan’s concert and below for Matisyahu.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t21uM0SRRcE]

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Contest News

$5 Concert Tickets From Live Nation and Citi

All of our budgets are tight this year, but thanks to Live Nation and Citi you can catch some great summer shows for just $5 (plus shipping and handling). The $5 lawn seats include acts like Blink 182, Nickelback, Crue Fest 2, The Fray and Depeche Mode just to name a few.

Visit the site here and use the code CITI54 to see what shows are available. The sale started yesterday and ends August 31. Let me know what show you go to!

Categories
Concert Reviews

Better Than Ezra, Tyrone Wells Bring Surprises At Sold-Out New York Show

A huge sensation in the 90s, Better Than Ezra proved last Friday night at The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza that they’re far from a nostalgic memory. Playing for nearly two hours, the band had die-hard fans singing along to their old hits as well as some covers and surprise guest appearances.

Tyrone Wells opened the night playing many tracks off his latest album, Remain. Winning over the audience with his soulful covers of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On,” Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer” and The Police’s “Roxanne,” as well as his captivating storytelling, the night’s surprises started with Wells.

After telling a heartwarming tale of a fan calling him to request Wells’ presence performing at his wedding proposal, Wells’ called out a name in the crowd. “Tara in the balcony, I think you should turn around.” Low and behold, her boyfriend, Steve, kneels on the ground and proposes. Screams and applause erupt throughout the venue as she accepts.

“This song is going out to Tara and Steve,” Wells said before segueing into his hit, “Sea Breeze.” Apparently Wells’ concerts are the place to meet your future significant other. He told the crowd he’ll be playing Highline Ballroom October 7, before ending the night with powerful number and title track off his album, “Remain.”

Shortly before 10:30 Better Than Ezra took the stage to screams. The women around me were still smitten over lead singer Kevin Griffin and could be heard screaming, “He’s so hot! I’d take him home,” continuously throughout the night. Infatuated fans aside, Better Than Ezra put on a pleasing set and showed the crowd that they still know how to rock.

Playing songs off their latest release, Paper Empire, as well as hits off their eight album catalog, Better Than Ezra had all in attendance feeling like they were in college again. “I’m going to be three things to you tonight,” frontman Griffin told the crowd. “A guy, a confidant, and devil’s advocate,” he said before beginning, “A Lifetime.”

Previous hits like 1995’s “Good,” and “Extra Ordinary” mingled with new tracks “Absolutely Still,” the crowd equally receptive. Midway through their set none other than New Orleans’ Manning brothers Peyton and Eli took the stage, before aptly titled track, “King of New Orleans.”

And that was just the first 10 songs. Playing a 23-song set, it was hard to decipher the crowd favorite. “Desperately Wanting” came close as all around me were singing along word for word. “A lot of bands put out a lot of good albums and then it sucks. Not true for us,” Griffin said before playing “I Just Knew,” a moving ballad and last track on their latest release.

The Manning brothers made one last appearance onstage, this time throwing footballs into the crowd before Better Than Ezra began playing AC/DC into which the DJ segued into Black Eyed Peas’ energetic track, “Boom Boom Pow.” Never short on energy, the band pleased the crowd with a five-song encore.

“Thank you guys for so many years,” Griffin said before promising, “We’ll be back around.” From the look of the sold-out venue Friday night, their fans will be waiting.

For more on Better Than Ezra, be sure to visit them on MySpace. To listen to tracks from Tyrone Wells, and catch his current tour dates, check him out on MySpace too.

Categories
Concert Reviews

White Rabbits Impress At Sold-Out New York Show

The approaching holiday weekend didn’t deter concertgoers from attending White Rabbits’ sold-out concert at Bowery Ballroom last Thursday night. As they performed an hour-long set of older fan favorites as well as tracks off their most recent release, It’s Frightening, White Rabbits had all in attendance captivated by their live show.

The band’s energy was undeniable from the moment they took the stage for first track, “Rudie Fails.” Whether it was Steve Patterson’s vigor while playing piano or guitarists Alex Even and Greg Roberts jumping around onstage, White Rabbits kept the crowd engaged. Their constant interaction was impressive and permeated throughout the venue.

The lack of between-song banter didn’t matter. Concertgoers were there to see a powerhouse set from the Brooklyn-based band and that’s what they got. Led by dual vocalists Patterson and Roberts, each voice matched the energy of the songs showcased and, at times darker musical accompaniment provided. One highlight was seeing the array of instruments played by the six-piece. Throughout the performance, most band members rotated between helping out on percussion, tambourine as well as keyboards, and always managed to keep things fresh.

The band’s set moved quickly and with great diversity. Alternating from more upbeat track “The Lady Vanishes” to slower ballad, “Company I Keep,” Patterson left the piano for the first time of the night and proved he has just as much energy manning the mic alone as he does on the keys. Older tracks like “The Plot” and “While We Go Dancing” seemed to draw the most excitement while the crowd favorite of the night was vigorous “Percussion Gun.” With half the band playing the drums and the audience dancing and singing along word for word throughout the track, White Rabbits had the audience begging for more and they didn’t disappoint. As they took the stage for an encore, the show ended shortly after midnight to a satisfied audience. And, from the looks of it, the band had a blast as well.

It’s evident from Thursday’s show that White Rabbits is one band to be on the lookout for. With a slot at this year’s All Points West festival, there’s a good chance we’ll be hearing a lot more from them soon.

The Antlers opened up the night and played a 40-minute, six-song set. While the three-piece band has more of an ambient, atmospheric vibe, they had trouble winning over the audience. More onstage interaction between the band members could have resulted in a different outcome. While tracks like “Two” have much potential, less musical accompaniment and more vocals would have made for a much different concert experience.

Cymbals Eat Guitars brought along much-needed energy as the venue began to fill up shortly after 10 p.m. Their mix of indie, alternative rock, and, at times screamo, left the audience questioning what would come next. But, isn’t that what live shows are all about? The band interacted well onstage, which only kept the crowd more fascinated.

While Cymbals Eat Guitars have been compared to Built to Spill and early Modest Mouse, regardless of the comparison they definitely put their own spin on their material as could be witnessed throughout the entirety of their set. Songs like “Cold Spring” had solid electric guitar features while frontman Joseph Ferocious was a fun sight to see while jumping around onstage. Having received rave reviews by music publications and blogs alike, the band is on the cusp of indie greatness.

You can read this review, originally posted on Venus Zine here.

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Artist of the Week

April Smith and the Great Picture Show Bring Surprises to Mercury Lounge

With frontwoman April Smith‘s soulful vocals and quirky banter with the audience, April Smith and the Great Picture Show entertained all at Mercury Lounge for an early show last Wednesday. Playing songs off their most recent EP, Live From the Penthouse, the band’s versatility is spell bounding.

Whether Smith is singing jazzier track “Terrible Things,” a song she dedicated to hit television show, “Dexter,” or having a guest band member play the suitcase onstage as if it was a drum (no joke), April Smith and the Great Picture Show kept the audience enthralled for the entirety of their set.

The cabaret inspired show brought to mind many genres; rock, pop, jazz and even classic tunes from the late 50s and 60s. Infused with guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion and melodica, among other surprise instruments, the band kept a lively and easygoing vibe throughout the night.

The energy was fierce during tracks like “Colors” with fun melodica features (think kazoo with a keyboard attached) and tambourine accompaniment, not to mention that suitcase I mentioned earlier. Who knew a band could have the percussion section consist of a suitcase? Definitely a first seeing a suitcase being played onstage.

Stand out track was emotional ballad, “Beloved.” Before beginning, Smith told the crowd she wrote “Beloved” about her grandparents. “I hope one day two people in the movie Twilight will be kissing to it,” she joked. “Maybe Bella or Edward will make out to this song.” With lyrics like “You are the thrill that stilled my beating heart, baby/You are the one I dream the most/But if I cannot have the real thing/I’ll gladly settle for your ghost,” it’s hard not to picture hearing it on the big screen.

Ending their set with fun track “Wow and Flutter,” Wednesday night was only a glimpse into the bright future for April Smith and the Great Picture Show. Garnering a slot opening for for The Bangles as well as this year’s Lollapalooza is well deserved and I won’t be surprised if you’ll be hearing April Smith and the Great Picture Show everywhere soon.

For more on April Smith and the Great Picture Show, be sure to visit them on MySpace.

Recommended: For fans of Duffy and Tom Waits with the energy and emotion of PJ Harvey and Etta James.

Categories
Concert Reviews

Zootopia Brings Diverse Lineup to New Jersey

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

Before I give my full report on Saturday’s Zootopia concert I have to preface this entry by explaining that I grew up listening to Z100. It was always my dream in middle and high school (I’ll admit in college too) to win tickets and attend a show. In fact, I can’t even count how many times I called the radio station in hopes to be caller 100!

Whether it was the Backstreet Boys in the 90s or the Jonas Brothers last year, Zootopia is one of the biggest concerts showcasing today’s hottest music and being behind the scenes always seemed so glamorous to me. Never in a million years would I have imagined I’d be attending and sitting in the press room interviewing the artists I grew up listening to. But, that’s exactly what I was doing Saturday night and loved every minute of it!

Upon arrival at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, NJ, Wendy and I were ushered into the press room shortly before 6 p.m. The back wall was lined with video cameras while the front of the room had a dozen or so photographers vying for the perfect location to capture the best shot of each artist. We made our way to the seats and shortly after none other than teen heartthrob Jesse McCartney entered the room. After his photo opp. he made his way to the mics for a quick Q&A.;

I realized right away how aggressive you have to be in a press conference set up and by the time the third artist came in, I made sure I got a question in. While one-on-one interviewing will always be my favorite, this set up was definitely a learning experience. I plan on typing up the Q&A;’s from each artist so you can have complete access to what was discussed. Each night this week I’ll post a new interview for you — how does that sound?

As much as I enjoyed the interviews, I had to catch some of the show. While I’ve seen the All-American Rejects numerous times in concert, their live show is always a treat. Whether it’s frontman Tyson Ritter making peculiar comments to the crowd or funny facial contortions, AAR’s energy and stage presence is undeniable. Playing a solid set of crowd favorites, “Dirty Little Secret” and “Move Along,” they switched gears up a bit by ending with latest single, slower ballad “The Wind Blows.” Riding the waves off chart topper “Gives You Hell,” “The Wind Blows” is sure to do the same. The guys talked about touring with Blink 182 this summer, so be sure to catch them soon!

Kelly Clarkson is another must-see live. Her arena friendly pop rock is solid and her vocals are always impressive. Not to mention, she had everyone around me singing along to “Since U Been Gone” (yes, even the guys). “I’m all about quality over quantity,” Clarkson told the crowd. “My personal philosophy is I do not hook up…unless it’s Hugh Jackman or Russell Crowe or someone really hot,” she joked before introducing current radio hit “I Do Not Hook Up.”

Jesse McCartney opened the night and most likely had all the girls swooning in the crowd. While I watched most of his set from the press room, his dancing and singing style was impressive. Having recently been hailed “The Heir to Justin Timberlake’s Throne,” while McCartney definitely has big shoes to fill, I’m rooting for him. As if that’s not enough, he’ll be touring this summer with New Kids On the Block and will surely win over the older women if he hasn’t done so already.

The rest of the night included appearance by Sean Paul, LMFAO and Taylor Momsen as well as the hosts for the evening — Z100’s radio station djs. Ciara’s performance made me wish I paid more attention in dance class, as her moves were like no one I’ve ever seen while Flo Rida and Soulja Boy wowed the crowd and surely increased the energy for Black Eyed Peas’ closing set.

If anything is certain from their performance Saturday night, the Peas will have the album of the summer. While “Boom Boom Pow” is heating up the charts, next single, “I Gotta Feeling” undeniably will to do the same. The band proved the breakup rumors to be false and their show demonstrated that they’re in it for the long haul. Playing past chart toppers, “Where Is the Love,” “My Humps” and “Let’s Get Retarted” the Peas had concertgoers at the IZOD Center on their feet, dancing and partying along until the last beat of “Boom Boom Pow” was played.
Stay tuned this week for interviews with each of the performers!

Categories
News

Zootopia 2009 – What Do You Want Covered?

I’ll be covering radio station Z100’s infamous Zootopia concert tomorrow night at the IZOD Center. For those of you that don’t know the line-up, Kelly Clarkson, Jesse McCartney, All-American Rejects, Ciara, Soulja Boy, Flo Rida and Black Eyed Peas will be performing along with some unannounced special guests.

I’ll have access to the press room where I can ask each artist questions as well as tickets to cover the show. My question for you is, what do you want to know? What are you dying to ask one of the artists?

I’m going to have to juggle the press room and the performances from the looks of it, so what would you rather read about — an exclusive interview or concert review? Let me know! Question submissions always welcome. For more information on the show and for last minute tickets, click here. I’ll be reporting live via Twitter so if you don’t yet, make sure you follow me for up-to-the-minute coverage!

Categories
News

Presenting the Brent Shuttleworth House Concert Tour

I caught two of Brent Shuttleworth‘s performances last year and raved about his live show in one of my reviews. Imagine then, my excitement to find out about his *Best Version of Yourself* House Concert Tour 2009. Where, at your request he will show up to your door and serenade you, your friends and family.

Shuttleworth’s Facebook page states: “For the next 30 days, in preparation for his national summer tour, he will be taking his vitamins, waking up early, reading, writing, painting, booking, recording, exercising and performing the better part of every single day. He will be respecting the overall health and well-being of himself and his music.”

Wait . . . it gets better.

“Let it be known that now, on 10 May 2009 the BEST VERSION of YOURSELF TOUR (BVYT) has officially begun and Brent Shuttleworth WANTS to recruit YOU. Have you ever caught yourself wondering what it would be like to have Brent Shuttleworth playing for you, your friends, family and everyone you have EVER known? WHEREVER you are and WHEREVER you may be, Brent wants to play for you!

If you are interested in organizing a show this summer for your:

TOWN
CHURCH
SYNAGOGUE
TEMPLE
MOSQUE
GRANDPARENTS
NEIGHBORS
FRIENDS
FAMILY
CO-WORKERS
ETC…

Then, Brent will come to you!”

A personal concert? I’m so in, what do you think? Give him a listen, and if you like what you hear be sure to contact booking@brentshuttleworthmusic.com for booking.

Watch Brent’s video for “When I Reach California” below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FT-MlVxQcoc]

Categories
Concert Reviews

The Alternate Side Launch Party with Pela and The Postelles

Photo Credit: Maryanne Ventrice

Mercury Lounge was packed last night in celebration of the official launch of WFUV’s new indie music channel, The Alternate Side. And, what better way to kick off the channel than New York’s very own indie darlings Pela and The Postelles?

After a short introduction by the station’s staff and founders, The Postelles (photo above) took the stage playing tracks off their upcoming debut full length which is being produced by none other than Strokes’ guitarist Albert Hammond, Jr. The band has garnered rave reviews as of late with their 60s inspired pop and rock ‘n’ roll sound. With hooks galore encompassing tracks like “Hey Little Sister” and “123 Stop” it’s no wonder they’ve landed a spot at this year’s All Points West Festival.

Watch The Postelles play “123 Stop” last night below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RMbIQuyhpQ]

A Monday performance while the sun is still shining can’t be enticing for any band, but Pela sure showed concertgoers that it’s quite possible and rather enjoyable. Playing a 45-minute set Pela reminded everyone of what a real rock show should be. Their energetic set and engaging stage presence permeated throughout the room, having the crowd hooked and screaming for more. Whether it was frontman Billy McCarthy leaping off the stage into the crowd or tearing panels off the ceiling (photo below), Pela sure knows how to grab the audience’s attention.

The band has been getting quite a buzz and their recent tour dates with The Gaslight Anthem has only helped them gain the recognition they deserve. From last night’s performance, it is evident that Pela will be selling out their own headlining shows across the country in no time. Whether it was catchy track, “Tenement Teeth” or their solid cover of The Clash’s “Guns of Brixton,” Pela left those in attendance impressed.

“Pela rhymes with Layla,” McCarthy told the crowd. Soon after guitarist Nate Martinez chimed in, joking, “In Spain it would be paella, but we’re not in Spain.”

Songs like “Waiting On the Stairs” and “Chapel Song” had solid guitar buildup throughout, fitting the urgency of McCarthy’s vocals. Listen to”Waiting On the Stairs” below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyZ7tY5CX5g]

Pela’s talent is undeniable and I highly recommend checking them out live for yourself, as listening on MySpace just won’t cut it. For more on Pela be sure to visit their Web site and catch a show when they’re in town. You won’t regret it. If that’s not enough for you, watch a video of them covering The Clash below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou8yxVDNhf8]

For more on The Postelles, be sure to visit their MySpace and to hear more of your favorite indie bands, be sure to tune into 90.7 or check out The Alternate Side online!