Metal Church, the iconic American heavy metal band, returns with their highly anticipated 13th album, Congregation of Annihilation. With a career spanning decades, Metal Church has consistently delivered hard-hitting and relentless music, and this latest offering is no exception. Congregation of Annihilation showcases the band's unwavering commitment to heavy metal roots, along with a few surprises along the way culminates into just under 50 minutes of metalhead bliss.
Right from the opening track “Another Judgement Day,” Metal Church unleashes a sonic assault of punchy riffs, thunderous double kicks, and killer solos that doesn’t let up until after completing the roughly 50-minute tracklist. Nowhere is that more apparent than with tracks like, “Congregation of Annihilation,” or in this instance, “Pick a God and Prey” where breakneck tempo lines up perfectly with new front man Marc Lopes’ nihilistic lyricism to create a true standout.
Although this is Metal Church’s 13th studio record, it marks the first since the tragic passing of legendary front man Mike Howe who passed in July of 2021. Howe’s passing left quite a big hole needing to be filled that would be a tall task for anyone, and Marc Lopes does so with flying colors. His range and versatility shine throughout the album, effortlessly transitioning from melodic verses to bone-chilling screams all while delving into thought-provoking themes of societal issues and deep personal struggles with an unapologetic intensity that Metal Church is known for.
While staying true to Metal Church's classic sound from the 80’s for much of the album, the band adds some much-needed palate cleansers that are welcomed additions like “Me the Nothing” and “Making Monsters.” The former of which seeing the gas being let off the pedal just ever so slightly, for one of the more personal tracks on the album, and the latter pushing the pedal back down but this time with an infectious bassline that you can’t help but bounce your head to. It’s small little steps like these showing the groups willingness to switch things up and take a bit of risk when it comes to exploring the possibilities of the metal genre.
Congregation of Annihilation is a triumphant return for Metal Church, solidifying their status as one of the pioneers of American heavy metal. Relentless energy, impeccable musicianship, and Lopes’ dynamic lyricism establish this record as one dedicated to the craft, and to the legacy of Metal Church and the late Mike Howe. Although the lineup of Metal Church has changed, the music certainly hasn’t, as this 13th record packs just as much punch as their self-titled did back in ’84, and it’s one I recommend any metalhead to check out for themselves on May 26th, 2023.
I recently had a change to catch up with Frank Meyer and preview an acoustic version of "Stranger" off Highway 61's debut album, Driving South. After giving this one an initial spin, I was intrigued. After a few more spins, I was hooked and wanted more. It's just what the doctored ordered in a world full of copy cat releases that are typically dull and uninspired. I think these cats are on to something, and look forward to digging in more to their amazing sound & music!
Read more below from Frank on the songs origins as it provides some killer insight into how "Stranger" came to be, enjoy! - Matthew Belter
“Stranger” is the first single off our Highway 61 debut album, Driving South. Highway 61 started when I was in high school in the late ‘89s. Most of the material was written back in the day, but the band broke up in the ‘90s and we all went on to other adventures. Since then, I’ve been playing in the Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs and with musicians like James Williamson of Iggy and the Stooges, Eddie Spaghetti of the Supersuckers, and my hard rock band Trading Aces. But a few years back, during the pandemic, our guitarist Andy Medway got leukemia. He had his surgeries and transfusions during Covid, so he had to sequester himself in a hotel room while he was recuperating since his immune system was essentially nonexistent. I suggested he pick up the ol’ guitar and start writing some songs to keep himself entertained. Eventually, he wrote some new material that inspired the band get back together and go to the studio. We picked the best of the old material, plus the new stuff, and made our long-awaited album, over 30 years after we started. The whole process was so fun and easy, and the record came out so great, that we shopped it around and got a deal with Rum Bar Records. But the really amazing part is in this last year since all that happened, Andy completely beat the cancer, is doing great, and playing guitar like a beast again! Music really does save lives.
Originally I wrote “Stranger” on an acoustic guitar originally and I played it live in my solo acoustic act many times, so one day when I was bored, I decided to record a version. My wife, Sarah, filmed it, and I sang it to our dog Mojo. As you can see, Mojo is only mildly amused by my musical antics. But regardless, the song works great on acoustic guitar, and I like showing that side of the band’s songwriting off. The way I see it is there any good song should work as an acoustic number. If it doesn’t, it’s probably because it’s not that strong of a song.
The Half Alive show was more than a simple concert, it was an experience. My first Half Alive experience was in March of 2022 at the Ogden Theater in Denver, my hometown. Then, they packed a dynamic performance into such a small venue. Now, a year later, the group is performing at one of the largest venues in LA! The show was unlike any typical concert, this was a performance which included flawless choreographed dance sequences, a mind-bending shadow performance opening, and an all around astonishing night.
The show was opened with Dev Lemons, accompanied by nickisnotgreen on drums. Some of the quirkiest performers I have ever experienced. They showcased their low-fi hip hop energy with a presentation that contained lots of woof-like chants and pointing. The artist went as far to state that nobody was allowed to leave until they “had pointed to every audience member”. The duo certainly got the crowd riled. Yet, the night was still young, next to the stage was the renowned Tessa Violet, joined by her bandmates. Violet has such an eccentric and daring presence. Tessa is widely known for her bobble-pop single “Crush”. Her energy radiated throughout the Wiltern, bringing nothing but pure confidence and kindness. During her performance, she recalled a story in which a fan came up to her and asked how she got to be so confident. She responded by giving everyone in the audience that night homework. We all were to look in the mirror first thing in the morning and tell ourselves that we love who we are. It was a beautifly wholesome moment that accompanied a dazzling set.
Then it was time for the headliners, Half Alive. You’ve seen artists play instruments while singing and performing for a live audience, but have you ever seen a choreographed breakdance whilst singing? Josh Taylor, lead man of Half Alive, is a singer, dancer, performer, and at his core an entertainer. The show opened with a trippy visual all from behind a large white sheet. The group had lights moving behind them in sync with the music making for an insanely unique visual to accompany their music. The show as a whole was divided into seasons, which added a unique element that separated their songs into energy. The group also has set pieces coming on and off of stage. A highlight was when an old rotary phone was brought out to center stage and interrupted the current song. The entire stadium held for Taylor to talk to whoever was on the other line. It was then that the phone was passed through the audience and a short theatrical bit was showcased.
Half Alive is group is one that needs to be experienced, well, live! They add such a simulating element to their shows and their performances are not to be missed. If you want to not only hear the music live, but enjoy the performance of a lifetime as well, then Half Alive is the group for you.
The Factory in Deep Ellum, Dallas, Texas, was alive with electrifying energy as The Backseat Lovers took the stage as the headliners, supported by the talented opener, Free Range. The night promised an unforgettable musical experience, and it certainly delivered on that promise.
Kicking off the evening, Free Range captivated the audience with their dynamic blend of folk and rock influences. The three-piece band brought a fresh and invigorating sound to the stage, instantly capturing the attention of the crowd. Their tight-knit harmonies and soulful lyrics resonated with the audience, creating an atmosphere of heartfelt connection. Tracks like "Want To Know" and "All My Thoughts" showcased their musicianship, as each member skillfully showcased their individual talents while maintaining a cohesive sound. Free Range's performance set the stage for an unforgettable night of music, leaving the crowd eager for more.
As The Backseat Lovers took over the stage, the energy in the room reached its peak. The Utah-based indie rock band wasted no time in delivering a captivating performance that had the crowd on their feet from the very first note. Lead vocalist Joshua Harmon's infectious energy was contagious, as he effortlessly transitioned from heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems. Harmon's raw and emotive vocals carried the weight of each song, perfectly complemented by the band's tight instrumentals.
The Backseat Lovers treated the audience to a mix of their most beloved hits and tracks from their previous albums. Standout moments included the anthemic "Kilby Girl," with its catchy melodies and infectious chorus, as well as the introspective "Pool House." The band's ability to seamlessly blend introspective lyricism with uplifting and energetic arrangements was a testament to their artistry and musical prowess.
Throughout the night, the crowd's enthusiasm never wavered. From the front row to the back, fans sang along to every word, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared passion for the music. The Factory in Deep Ellum provided the perfect backdrop for this incredible night of live music, with its intimate setting allowing for an immersive and personal experience.
As the final notes of The Backseat Lovers' encore filled the room, the audience erupted into thunderous applause and cheers. It was a night that won't soon be forgotten, a testament to the power of live music and the undeniable talent of both The Backseat Lovers and Free Range. Their performances left a lasting impression, leaving the audience craving more and eagerly anticipating their next visit to Dallas, Texas.
In conclusion, The Backseat Lovers and Free Range delivered an unforgettable concert experience at The Factory in Deep Ellum. Both bands showcased their immense talent and ability to connect with their audience, leaving everyone in attendance with a renewed love for live music. This night will surely be remembered as a highlight for fans of indie rock in Dallas, Texas.
Team twoOHsix Music, Chelsey, Alex, and Lindsey co-curated and hosted an epic night of music, Hunnypot Live #487 showcased a range of talented musicians and artists. episode starts with an introduction to twoOHsix Music, a full-service licensing agency specializing in sync for advertising, film, television, trailers, promos, and games. Joe Moralez p.k.a. SONGBIRD soared. Kham proved THE ROCK has ears, and BodaciousThang delivered a fire-fueled set and left with the entire room screaming for more.
And that's just Part 1 of the night! on Part 2 Steve Maggiora held the line with his luscious vocals and keyboard brilliance, TIA P., a multi-talented artist, producer, musician, and songwriter blew the roof off the club with a ripping drum solo. To close out the night Mystical Joyride brought their unique worldly party sound and immersive experience to the dance floor. Listen back on the links provided above. The show is a "Hot Tub" masterpiece, download n' stream lovers!
Mastered by James Coffman, Photos by Jeff Gray #WhereMusicLoversGoToPlay
CHELSEY, ALEX & LAUREN
Once upon a time, two girls and a gay (that’s not a typo) telepathically came to the same conclusion: "We should start a full-service, one-stop music licensing agency, order pizza and eventually rule the world” … and that’s how twoOHsix Music was born!
twoOHsix Music specializes in sync for advertising, film, television, trailers, promos and games - and we love us some custom work, like this Billie and this Adidas campaign.
We are very persnickety concerning the quality of our music catalogue, and with team members in LA and NC (one of which may as well have a perpetual intravenous drip of pure caffeine), you can rest assured that at the 11th hour, we will be there for you to provide a high quality, smooth as butter experience.
In conclusion, twoOHsix Music is a pretty cool licensing agency…
Okay, we’re an EXTREMELY cool licensing agency, but we’re very humble - like the most humble - so let’s just keep it hush-hush.
Joe Moralez is a multi-talented artist hailing from the charming small town of Boerne, Texas. His unique sound blends folk, electronic, R&B, and pop music, earning him a dedicated following of listeners worldwide, with over a million streams on various platforms. But Joe's creativity extends beyond just music; he's also a skilled producer, podcaster, and artist, dedicated to storytelling through his craft. Joe's work is a prolific journey into his imagination, where magic and wonder abound, whether it's through his music, his art, or his podcasts.
Additionally, Joe is the founder of Elf Tree Publishing, a boutique production studio, and ElfTree Media, a post-production company, highlighting his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to the arts.
Kham is the definition of a rising star, exploding onto the music scene as a Culture Villains' artist in late 2018 and quickly gaining traction with his electrifying sound and undeniable talent. His debut EP, The Drive, was a game-changer, featuring the hit single 'Incognito' that soared to success and dominated the airwaves.
As a Virginia Beach native, Kham is deeply committed to using his music as a platform for social change, tackling issues such as inner city starvation and police brutality head-on and inspiring hope and positivity in his listeners. He's even led initiatives in his community to address these critical issues, proving that he's not just a talented artist but also a true champion for the people.
Kham's star power has only continued to grow, with performances alongside industry heavyweights like KB, Social Club, Steven Malcolm, ACjr+BradyJames, and Andy Mineo. And his music has been featured on some of the hottest TV shows, including All American, Black Ink Compton, The Wakas, and Jersey Shore.
But Kham's biggest triumph to date has been the release of his debut album, Problematic, which took the world by storm and peaked at #28 on the iTunes charts. With over 2 million streams and glowing coverage from Earmilk, Elevator, and Revolt TV, Kham has solidified his status as a true superstar in the making. So don't sleep on this rising star - Kham is one artist you won't want to miss.
BodaciousThang is a fire-fueled performer with raw vocals and unmatched energy. Hailing from Kinston, North Carolina, and debuting as an artist in Kansas City, this queen is classically trained and has turned her musical intellect into a captivating journey that will have you pleading for more. Her empowering messaging, versatility, authenticity, and comedic influence puts her in the ultimate position to take your ears and heart on a timeless journey.
Steve Maggiora is a multi-talented musician, songwriter and entertainer. Making his living both as a session musician and live musician, Steve is deeply passionate in the music he creates, which is made apparent through his sultry smokey voice and rich keyboard voicing. He can be heard on thousands of recordings, including songs with Toto, Marc Broussard, Daniel Powter, Natalie Imbruglia, Joshua Radin and countless more. He has performed to hundreds of thousands of concert-goers across the USA, UK, EU, Australia and Japan.
In addition to touring with the legendary band TOTO, Steve is also committed to giving back to the global music community, providing mentorship to thousands of aspiring mix engineers and producers as a mentor through Produce Like A Pro and Pro Mix Academy, as well as through the incredible charity organization Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. Steve is constantly creating new music in many different genres, much of which is available on streaming platforms as well as on his Patreon page, where he releases new music every Friday.
Hailing from Inglewood, CA and a Howard University Alum, Tia P. is a driven, passionate and talented artist, producer, musician, and songwriter whose lyrical prowess is unmatched. Tia P.'s sound embodies the soul of the old, the new and the NOW! Tia P. is a lyricist extraordinaire and is often sought out by top line producers and artists to collaborate. In addition to her aforementioned skill, she commands the stage when performing of which has resulted in her opening for Da Brat, Monie Love, YoYo, KRS 1, Bootsy Collins, DJ Quik and a host of other well known acts. She had headlined shows at the Roxy, Viper Room, The Mint, and 1 Oak. She can be heard everyday at 3 pm on Stevie Wonder's radio station 102.3 KJLH with opening theme music for the "TammiMac Show". She can also be seen and heard on several national commercials, i.e., Hyundai Tuscan, the "Visit Las Vegas" theme song, Sprite featuring LeBron James, Welcome to California, and a Pepsi commercial featuring pop sensation, Tori Kelly. She recently collaborated with Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard on the song Running with the Angels which is the theme song for the Angel City Football Club.
For those of us who mourn the loss of Hip Hop since its passing in the mid 90’s, Tia P. will restore your faith and assure you that it's in good hands. Her newest single “Green Cadillac” features The Legendary DJ Battlecat and none other than Hip Hop Royalty herself, The Lady of Rage. Tia P.'s witty bars and vocal stylings laced over DJ Battlecat's signature West Coast beat provide the perfect segue for the “rough and tough” afro-puff licks of West Coast’s very own The Lady of Rage. These two ladies harmoniously blend the old with the new, and like a relay race, The Lady of Rage is passing the baton. As the lyricist pens, “catch me chillin’, riding ‘round minding my business. If you with it, hop in the back of my Green Cadillac and just ride wit me, ride wit me”.
Mystical Joyride is the cosmic duo and genre-fluid Psychedelic World Pop band hailing from Los Angeles. This married couple Leah and Joel fly their musical spaceship in between the ratchet and the spiritual.
Their live sets are an energetic and immersive experience of meditation and straight up shaking that ass with electronics and live instrumentation as well guest vocalist, Bengali sensation, Arzeen Kamal. Get ready to dance and let your soul play as Mystical Joyride delivers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Though I am someone that loves the energy and aggression that comes with metal music. I have a soft spot in my heart for the softer side that comes with gothic rock. Even frequenting some goth night clubs in my younger days. When I heard that The Sisters of Mercy were coming to town, to be honest the name did not sound familiar. But when I looked up their music, I was surprised to realize how much of their music I had heard before. All those years spent dancing at my favorite goth club, Necropolis, was secretly making me a Sisters fan, and I didn’t even know it. I knew I could not miss their show when it came to the Hollywood Palladium, and the nostalgic feeling hearing their music live might bring. Bringing with them Strange Cities to open the night, I along with many others, were ready to dance through night.
Opening the night was San Francisco post punk quartet Strange Cities, and they brought the perfect vibe for the night. Lead singer and guitarist Daniel Nakazo Clark layers his voice into Strange Cities music beautiful as if he is cry-singing from the heart. Speaking out to anyone who would listen to him. Trading off licks with fellow guitarist James Levis who brought a type of mystique to the stage as his person, as he let his guitar do the talking for him. Bassist Clay Vorheis and drummer Dan Caporale were in perfect sync as they created, what felt to me, as walking melodies. Strange Cities had the perfect grooves that you could just put your headphones on, go for a walk, and get lost for hours in their songs.
Finally, when it was time for The Sisters of Mercy to hit the stage, hearing their music live felt like I was getting ready every Wednesday night to head out to Necropolis. Opening the night with “Don’t Drive on Ice,” the Sisters were there to set a mood first and foremost. Fogging the entire Palladium up, and casting spot through strategically throughout the stage. The band members were lost in fog on stage, letting their sound radiate through the venue. Lead singer Andrew Eldritch was like Nosferatu stepping in and out of the foggy shadows. Armed with his deep baritone voice that sunk into your ears and gripped you tight, like the fangs of a vampire sinking into your skin. Flanked by guitarists Ben Christo & Dylan Smith who driving guitar lines raised the energy into the venue. Manning the drum machine known as Doktor Avalanche was Ravey Davey. Doktor Avalanche is the heart beat of the Sisters of Mercy, as he drives the rhythm and synths that gets the crowd dancing and losing themselves in the atmosphere that is created. Fans could not be stopped from dancing through The Sisters 22 song set which included “Ribbons,” “Crash and Burn,” “Alice,” “First and Last and Always,” “But Genevieve,” “Giving Ground,” “Show me,” “More,” “Eyes of Caligula,” “I Was Wrong,” and “When I’m on Fire.” The Sisters of Mercy couldn’t settle for a quick encore, as they knew their fans pleaded for more, and played a three song encore featuring “Lucretia My Reflection,” “Temple of Love,” and ending with “The Corrosion.”
I knew I was in for a treat with The Sisters of Mercy coming back to Hollywood. I was expecting to see many people come out in support of the Sisters and their legacy. What was I was not prepared to see was the attire of the night. Seeing people pilling into the Hollywood Palladium dressed head to toe in gothic fashion like black fabrics, torn clothes, pentagrams, chains, belts, big hair, striking black eye liner, and more. It was gorgeous. It wasn’t just the younger kids either, all the elder goths brought out their 80s gothic fashion from deep in the closet to show up in droves. As I mentioned, the show had people dancing all night long, and that includes the elder goths reliving their younger years without a care in the world. The night belonged to them, and no one could take that moment from them.
Crafting an new album can be a challenge for some bands. Writing, constructing, and recording are all entire processes in and of themselves. Some bands can write a new album every year to bring new music to the masses. Other bands like to take a bit more time to fine tune every aspect of the album to make sure every song is crafter to the perfect degree. Though this makes the fans wait even longer for new music from their favorite bands, when the album is finally released, we could not be more excited! After six years, Nothing More finally put out their newest album since 2017 called Spirits, and to accompany it went on their Spirits Tour 2023. Bringing with them Crown the Empire and Thousand Below. It was time to enter the doors of the Belasco Theatre to prove we really want it.
Opening the Spirits Tour was a California native post-hardcore band called Thousand Below. Thousand Below got the night of hard rock started the right way opening their set with the song “Hell Finds You Everywhere.” Drummer Max Santoro kicked off the song with a grooving tom fill that built the energy of the song and crowd. Lead Singer James Deberg came in with a perfectly balance layer of screamed/melodic vocals that you can just hear the passion in his voice. Guitarist Josh Thomas was the riff master of the night on his axe, while providing backing vocals that helped elevate Debergs. Bassist Josh Billimoria brought the physical energy into his performance along with his bass lines. It’s always great when an opening band connects with the audience, and Thousand Below did just that, as patrons across the Belasco Theatre could be seen head banging to songs like “Chemical,” “No Place Like You,” “Venenosa,” “Silent Season,” “Sabotage,” and ending their set with “Sinking Me.” By the time Thousand Below finished their set and transition music started playing over the speakers, the audience got a taste of live music they love and couldn’t wait for the rest of the bands this night.
Up next was Crown the Empire who just released their fifth studio album Dogma. Ready to bring their new music to the fans in the Belasco, they kicked off their set with the title track “DOGMA.” Before the notes of the opening track could even be played, the crowd could be heard screaming for lead singer Andy Leo Rockhold. As the track started Andy stepped onto stage wearing a floor length fur coat, ready to get the crowd moving. Andy celebrated his birthday a couple days prior to the show, and a fan bought a beer for the birthday boy, who proceeded to drink and spill the beer all over the stage. The fans screamed in excitement as they launched into their second track “The Fallout.” Guitarist Brandon Hoover not only brings some of the heaviest riffs of the night but would routinely douse himself in water between songs and then splashed the front row as he whipped his hair like we were at SeaWorld. Bassist Hayden Tree was grooving all night on his instrument while providing the melodic harmonies to backup Andy. Drummer Jeeves Avalos was rocking out shirtless in the back slamming on his cymbals. Crown the Empire got the fans so excited that they started crowd surfing to come over the barricade during their favorite songs like “Black Sheep,” “BLURRY (Out of Place),” “What I Am,” “Immortalize,” “Machines,” “In Another Life,” and ending the set with “Dancing with the Dead.”
Finally, it was time for Nothing More, and I could not be more excited personally. It’s been a couple years since I’ve seen Nothing More on a headlining tour, and I was ready for a full set of music to lose myself in. Starting off the night with the title track “Spirits” off the newest album, the song starts with a very soft intro that builds the excitement of the power that is about to come. As soon as the verse kicks in and vocalist Jonny Hawkins lets out his noticeable scream, the lights kick up and the Belasco Theatre is bouncing. Hawkins is one of the most consistently energetic front men I continue to see live. He is an unhinged madman running across the stage shirtless and shoeless the entire set, making the crowd feels the lyrics not just hears them. Bassist Daniel Oliver and Drummer Ben Anderson are a dynamic duo who craft melodic yet powerful rhythms to the songs. The bass line holds the rhythmic flow of the song, while the drums pack the power that can’t stop someone from rocking out. Guitarist Mark Vollelunga is just the icing on top of the Nothing More cake as he drives the songs with his guitar riffs that enhance Hawkin’s already roaring vocals. Nothing More creates an arena’s amount of energy by playing bangers like “Do You Really Want It?” “Tired of Winning,” “Ships in the Night,” “Jenny,” “Let ‘em Burn,” “Go to War,” “Turn It Up Like (Stand in the Fire).” and “Don’t Stop.” But the band also knows how to slow down the pace while keeping the crowd engaged. Some of the softer songs played that night included “Best Times,” “I’ll Be Ok,” and “Fadein/Fadeout.” Ending their night with “This is the Time (Ballast),” every member jumped on their own drumhead to create a four way drum outro that left the fans crying for more even though this was the end.
As the echoes of music started to fade coming out of the loudspeakers, the fans adrenaline was still on high. People were not ready to leave as they screamed for more music; the security had to start clearing people out of the venue. As we all made our way out of the venue: out of breath from singing all night light, covered in sweat from moshing and headbanging the entire show, every fan had a smile on their face from how much all these bands mean to us. You could tell that Nothing More, Crown the Empire, and Thousand Below all hold a special place in each of our musical hearts, and seeing them live let our musical passion flow freely.
Hunnypot delivered another electrifying experience (#486). Co-host for the night was Multi-Platinum award winning Producer and MadxMosh Managing Partner, Darryl Swann. The lineup was packed with young and buzzing artists who blow our minds.
The night kicked off with the Hip-Hop stylings of Finding Novyon. Devon Thompson brought her brutal punk rock honesty to the stage, while SAFTisland offered a unique fusion of indie rock and hip hop that had the whole room bouncing off the walls.
#WhereMusicLoversGoToPlay
Moshpit XR LLC Managing Partner; Virtual Concerts & Events; Grammy Producer; Sony/ATV & Universal Music Publisher; Dolby Atmos; UCLA & NYU Immersive Media Lecturer; Author: "Essential Guide to Songwriting, Producing, Recording".THE ALIVE
Growing up a pale, emaciated misfit Devon Thompson found her home listening to music. A California child of the sun she was not meant to be. Early Siouxsie, The Animals, The Cramps, Bill Evans and the Beatles permeated her developmental years. By the age of 19 Devon had been playing Los Angeles clubs with her bands for many seasons.
Her recordings are thus far lingering with the Bel Canto of Roy Orbison, the delicacy of Harriett Wheeler and the sheer aggression of PJ Harvey. Devon has trimmed her ensemble to the bare essentials for maximum impact. Devoid of pre-records, and modern gimmick Devon keeps her songs and show brutally honest in delivery. Bass, Drums and her library of beautiful Guitars allow Devon’s audience to witness the most delicate surgery to primordial amputation of sound in the same set.
"The new single has an angry, unforgettable chorus driven by Thompson’s fiery fret-play on a classic guitar. “ - Beats Per Minute
"This artist channels elements of classic rock, with a modern flair, and a twist of vibrant personality to make songs like this shine." - Chorus FM
“A raw, driving rocker.” - Buzzbands LA
“The driving guitar track is the snarling sound of a young woman discovering who she is.” - She Makes Music
Against the Current, Poughkeepsie’s sensational pop and rock stalwarts, stormed the stage at the Varsity Theater this past Saturday with an explosive performance that is sure to have left the full audience completely in shock. Chrissy Costanza and crew (that being Dan Gow & Will Ferri) have seen a steady and deserved rise in popularity over the past decade-plus for good reason, and for the Nightmares and Daydreams Tour they brought heavy-hitting support with Australia’s Yours Truly and Trophy Eyes, each recognized for their own take on heart-on-your-sleeve punk music.
The night started off with a lively set from Yours Truly, who had the crowd dancing and singing along to their catchy tunes. Frontwoman Mikaila Delgado had those in attendance wrapped around her finger as she went through hit after hit from the band’s back catalog. Yours Truly’s catchiness was absolutely off the charts as - something that will come as no surprise to their die-hard fans - they truly filled the venue and set the tone for the rest of the night.
Next up was Trophy Eyes, who brought a heavier, hardcore-leaning sound to the stage. Their set was hardcore pandemonium, an affair that had the crowd moshing and jumping along to their balls to the wall songs. The band’s 40 minute set was made up of a mix of hits off their past few albums, but also several new cuts like "Blue Eyed Boy" (their opener), "What Hurts the Most", and "Kill". Lead singer John Floreani gave everything he had, starting their set reserved (by their standards) and screaming pretty much every single word he could by the end, vehemently imploring the crowd to connect with him.
But it was Against the Current who truly stole the show with their dynamic setlist and high-energy performance. The band took the stage with their hit song "That Won't Save Us" and immediately had the crowd on their feet, and based on the volume in there, sounded like they already knew every single word to it by heart. They cruised through some more hits off their recent EP fever, and played a live rendition of brand new single “good guy”. Their performance was a testament to their talent and ability to demonstrate just how powerful live music can be. The juxtaposition of Costanza’s powerful, nearly-operatic vocals with tight musicianship makes for a show as explosive as it is heartfelt.
If you're a fan of pop rock or just looking for a high-energy live show, the Nightmares & Dreams Tour is a tour you won't want to miss. All three brands bring a different form of captivating, electric energy, sure to leave any music listener, no matter their tastes, with a night they will remember for some time.
Saturday night I had the pleasure of experiencing a band that has gone unjustifiably under the radar for some time. The group known as Daisy the Great is an indie-pop group that specializes in their notable vocals and upbeat melodies. The group found a following with their single that goes by “The Record Player Song”, which demonstrates their tender and charming harmonies and eventually got them a version recorded with the pop icons - AJR. I first found Daisy the Great last year at a concert for The Wrecks, a group that is strikingly different. However, after listening to their performance, I can see exactly why The Wrecks had Daisy the Great open. This group radiates nothing but pure blissful energy, with the utmost talent.
Before getting to the dreamlike hymns of Daisy the Great, the Echoplex was lofted into similar musicians beginning with Johanna Samuels, who had a sound similar to the main act, with a slight folk edge. Samuels opened up the crowd with a mix of originals and covers and brought the acoustic energy to the Echoplex. Next to the stage was Olivia Klug. I, for one, absolutely fell in love with Klug’s music. They had a unique dynamic that immediately hooked me as a new fan. How could one not appreciate a group that brings not only a mandolin, but a full stand up bass to stage? The group taught the audience a chorus in one of my front-runners for this group, “Out of Line”, a chorus to which I was humming the rest of the night. Both openers rocked the house in preparation for the main act.
At Daisy the Great’s core, is a clear friendship amongst lead vocalists Kelley Nicole Dugan and Mina Walker. The two harmonized unlike any other duo I have heard before. I thought it might be a case of strategically recorded tracks, but no, the group matches one another unlike any other group, even more noticeably so in person. They have an extreme intonation that really makes their sound unique and stand-out. The band played some fan-favorites like the aforementioned “The Record Song” as well as “Glitter” and “Tell me Have You Been Dancing”. As well as some new melodies from their new album released in October of 2022 titled All You Need is Time. As well as some unreleased songs, a particular fan favorite seeming to be the unreleased track “Ballerina”. The group played another new song “Smile Pretty Girl” with opener Olivia Klug, bringing the night full circle.
All I have to say about these talented young musicians is they clearly have the expertise and flair to make it big. I for one am praying for their success, and cannot wait for more releases to come. They certainly don’t call them Daisy the Great for no reason.