This was year three for RRU MD, and while it was scaled back a bit, one stage, less artists, smaller crowd, it was a great overall weekend of reggae, fun, good people, good food, good drinks! They added a beer fest this year, and the crowd seemed to like the option of some local brewers being there but honestly since it was away from the stage, it never really seemed very busy. I worry this may be the last year for RRU in the North East, I hope not, but the vibe was feeling that way. It was a much different vibe than the previous two years, not that it was bad, it was just a different feel. Some of that had to do with the HEAT! It was incredibly hot all weekend, it did change the way people enjoyed and watched. It effected how I was photographing as well. But I don’t want to spend too much time on the heat, that is all everyone talked about, and “make sure you hydrate” keeps running through my head. Coming into this festival I admit I was not overly excited about the lineup. There were those I was very excited to see like Steel Pulse, Jesse Royal, Through The Roots, Collie Buddz, SOJA and Dale and the ZDubs, but also many artists/bands I have never seen live or even really heard much of their music. Totally my fault for not checking some of them out ahead of time, but I went into this with the attitude of no matter what I will get some good shots and I am going to have a good time.
Day 1 started off with Higher Education, the Maryland psychedelic-soaked roots/rock reggae band. This was their second time at RRU and I have to say, they sounded better this time around (not that they were not good last year, they just sounded much more solid), nice start to the festival, with a pretty good turn-out considering first band of first day at 12:30. A band I have never heard a song from before was next up, Wide Eyed Kids. They are fun! The trio, originally from Honolulu, HI, put on a really good set. Erik has a nice sweet voice, and Chandler and Landon are so solid. Made me wonder why I never checked these guys out. Next up was one of the bands I was excited to see again, Through The Roots. I last saw them about 8 years ago and have been following them ever since. The San Diego based group doesn’t make it to the East Coast very often, they really need to and they did not disappoint, putting on a fantastic performance, Evan sounded so good, Brady killing it on the keys, Calvin keeping it all going on drums and Kam was so good on guitar. When they played “Tequila X Cannabis” the crowd loved it, so many dancing along. I got to take a few pictures of them later in the day, such laid back cool guys. Mike Love was next to the stage, this was the first time seeing him for me, he was at another festival a few years ago but wasn’t able to catch him. I started listening to him the week before, and I don’t know why I haven’t listened to him sooner, I love his roots reggae vibe. The O’ahu, HI musician has a new album coming out July 5th, and I cannot wait to listen. He was solo at RRU and sounded great! The crowd was singing along with Mike, there was love and peace floating through the air during his set. I started thinking, so far everyone has sounded so good, so solid, maybe this is just going to continue on all weekend.
Cleveland’s own Tropidelic was up next. As always, they put on a fantastic performance. Such an amazing band, so much energy, so much fun! They are quickly becoming one of my favorite bands to photograph, so much going up on stage, you can’t help but get some great shots. They also have a new album coming out this summer on July 19th. Another album I am really excited for. I was talking with the guys before their set and told them, they are so good they can do the large festival stage, or a more intimate venue, they make it work no matter where they play. The Massachusetts band The Elovaters were next up, with a big following out in the crowd, they killed it. They are getting more and more popular the past few years and I can see why. Always put on a nice solid show. A band I was super excited to see again was next up on stage, Steel Pulse, hailing from England but with members from all over the globe. I saw them about 8 years ago, so I knew this was going to go down hard! They were so good, the crowd was having so much fun singing along to all their classics. David Hinds doesn’t seem to age and sounded amazing. They are a truly amazing band. I was lucky enough to meet up with them after their set for some photos and some great conversation, had a wonderful time talking photography with Amlak Tafari. Legends but never once acting like it, so down to earth and amazing.
Because I was spending so much time talking with Steel Pulse, I missed the beginning of Australia’s Xavier Rudd. While not really a reggae artist, the crowd was in awe of his talents. Playing so many different instruments and singing, this one-man band put on a great performance. I had my doubts about him being at a reggae festival, but he fit in just perfectly. At one point the moon was behind him, a large moon at that, made for some great photos and people are still talking about it a week later. It was meant to be! The night was finished off with headliner Iration. With all members originally hailing from Hawaii, they have that unique rock/pop/reggae sound with an island flow. The crowd was so excited for their set, and they came out strong. Great performance, mixing some old and new songs, the crowd dancing all night long. By this time of the night everyone was tired from the heat, but Iration brought that energy that kept the crowd going hard. It was a day of some great performances and great vocals, and Iration finished the day on a high note, a note that would carry everyone over to day 2.
Day 1 was such a great day, such a successful day enjoying each and every band, and each band topping the previous band all day long, everyone sounded so good. As the crowd was filtering out, tired from the long day and the crazy heat, but so energized for the next day, all talking about this performance and that performance. Could it get better than this?
One Love - Todd
What would rock and roll be without blues music. The earliest pioneers of blues music laid the foundation for what would evolve into what we call rock and roll today. Many bands still tap into the spirit and emotion of blues when writing modern day music. Whether that be taking a blues scale, slapping a distortion pedal on it, and making it sound heavy. This exact technique is what helped to grow and define the metal genre. To bands that keep the blues vibes in the forefront of their jams. Icelandic blues rockers Kaleo is one of the latter. Instead driving their music with the tone and feelings that come from the blues. Bringing their Payback Tour to The Wiltern in Los Angeles, CA for a two night event. Night two featured the opening act ReignWolf, and the die hard blues rock fans came to support these rockers.
Opening night two was Seattle's own ReignWolf, fronted by singer and guitarist Jordan Cook. ReignWolf brought some heavily distorted blues rock to the screaming fans in Los Angeles. Cook injected his guitar tone with fuzz that took me back to the sound of early Zeppelin. The way he sang carried with it a bit of unrefined grit that made him sound raw and unregulated. Backed by drummer Joseph Braley, who kept his playing partially subdued to let Cook’s guitar take center stage. But Braley knew when he could unleash his chops to push the tempo of the song and make it more powerful. Featuring songs like “I want you/Alligator,” “Over & Over,” “Electric Love,” “Are You Satisfied?,” “Lonely Sunday,” and “New Song.” ReignWolf’s tenacity was the perfect way to kick off the night and filled people’s spirits with blues rock bliss.
Kaleo started off their night with a new song called “Lonely Cowboy.” Vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jökull Júlíusson strolled onto the stage strumming on an acoustic guitar, but it was when his voice projected through the speakers that the crowd was enticed into the show that was about to happen. Júlíusson has a deep warm sultry voice that is just candy to the ears. He doesn’t have to push his voice or sing with flare as with just minor inflections, Júlíusson is able to convey beautiful emotion. Lead guitarist Rubin Pollock, strapped with his electric Gibson Les Paul, chooses to use his axe to enhance and help carry the melody of the songs. Bassist Daníel Ægir Kristjánsson and drummer Davíð Antonsson drive the groove of the beat. You can’t help but find yourself tapping a foot to the rhythms they create, and even swaying in place, getting lost in the vibe that is put out there. But it was keyboardist and harmonicaist Þorleifur Gaukur Davíðsson that nearly steals the show. As he steps to the forefront of the stage and just unleashes himself upon the crowd through his harmonica solos. He finds himself in a flow state and we are privileged to watch his mastery of the instrument. Kaleo brought an insatiable set of songs that pleased every blues fan in attendance like “Broken Bones,” “I Can’t Go on Without You,” “Break My baby,” “Alter Ego,” “I Want More,” “Automobile,” “Hey Gringo,” “Hot Blood,” “Vor í Vaglaskógi,” “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down),” “Skinny,” “Way Down We Go,” and coming back for a three song encore including “Backdoor,” “No Good,” “Rock ‘n’ Roller.” Blues was reinvigorated this night in Los Angeles, and it took a quintet from Iceland to keep this heart beating.
Before Kaleo could even hit the stage, fans were unabashedly talking about how they saw them the day before and could not pass up the chance to see them again this night. Icelandic blues rock may not be on the forefront of the music industry, but Kaleo has found a devoted fan base across the world, and a thriving one in Los Angeles. The Payback Tour has just a few stops left in June, before restarting in August and running through October. Whether you are familiar with this band or not, if you are a fan of blues rock, this is a show that I can say for certain you will not be disappointed by seeing.
Yelawolf's new video "Legend" is a compelling showcase of his distinctive style, blending gritty Southern rap with a rock-infused edge. Directed by Patrick Tohill (@patricktohill) the video complements the track's intensity with a visual narrative that is as raw and authentic as Yelawolf's lyrical delivery.
From a music production standpoint "Legend" stands out with its fusion of lo-fi and rock elements. The track is driven by a subtle drum line and gothic guitar riffs, creating a dense, aggressive soundscape that underscores Yelawolf's commanding vocal presence. The music production, handled by Malay (@maylaho) is marvelously layered, allowing each element to shine without overshadowing the others. Malay’s work on "Legend" is a testament to his ability to blend genres seamlessly.
Yelawolf's delivery on "Legend" is nothing short of captivating. His slow cadence and distinctive drawl inspire the track with an urgency and authenticity that is uniquely his. The lyrics are introspective and defiant, reflecting on Yelawolf's journey and his place in the music industry.
One of the video's most striking elements is its predominantly dark and moody palette punctuated by fire mirroring the song's dynamic shifts in tone and intensity. Tohill’s use of close-up shots and quick cuts adds a sense of immediacy and urgency, drawing the viewer into Yelawolf's world.
The video's production values are high, with careful attention to detail evident in every frame. The choice of locations, from a sunset-lit desert to an abandoned warehouse on fire adds to the video's gritty, urban aesthetic. The editing is sharp and precise, maintaining a brisk pace that matches the song's relentless energy.
In summary, Yelawolf's "Legend" is a powerful testament to his artistry, both musically and visually. The track's production, handled by Malay, masterfully blends multiple genres of music, while Patrick Tohill’s direction of the video brings Yelawolf's vision to life. "Legend" is a bold statement from an artist who continues to push boundaries and defy expectations.
- Brian Porter
Peach PRC with support from Terror Jr. caused an earthquake during her SecretPRC Tour show at The Fonda. Ok so it wasn't an actual earthquake, but the whole space felt like it was shaking from everyone dancing including people up in the balcony. Peach PRC sadly did not have her butterfly wings for this show but a lot of her fans were wearing them. The crowd was dressed ready for the show, it was a sea of pink and bright colors.
Terror Jr. started up the night with a cheerful energetic set. Their music is essentially high energy pop dance vibes, so the perfect music to listen to if you want to have fun at a party with your friends. They even had a giant inflatable dragon up on stage with them that could be seen clearly even from the back of the crowd. Some of the best moments were when both members of Terror Jr." did a duet together and were interacting with each other up on stage. You could really tell that the two of them love making music together. They even mentioned things like their experience performing in China, which was fun to hear about. They even had the crowd cheering at times. Their new song "Higher Than An Angel" is a good song to check out if you're new to Terror Jr. and the instrumental alone will stay stuck in your head.
For Peach PRC's set, it started out with a giant screen showing pics from her previous shows and her guitarist Chloe having a killer solo moment on stage to get everyone ready for Peach PRC. When Peach PRC came out she looked like a fairy princess, with her pink hair, sparkly pink outfit made out of yarn, glass beads, and rhinestones designed by Paul Aaron and mesmerizing makeup by make up artist Sterling Tull. You could easily tell a lot of hard work and passion went into designing her look for the night. Her set list for the night consisted of songs such as "Perfect For You", "Blondes", "Colourblind", "Symptomatic", "Secret", "Favorite Person", "Loved You Before", "Like A Girl Does", "Heavy", "Dear Inner Child", "Good Luck Babe", "FU Goodbye", "Josh", "Forever Drunk" "God is a Freak", and covers including "Good Luck Babe", "What Dreams Are Made Of", and Cascada's song "Everytime We Touch" (which was the encore).
A wholesome moment during the show was when fans brought out red glow sticks during Peach PRC's song "Dear Inner Child". These glow sticks were given out to fans while everyone was in line with instructions on which song to take them out for. There were also moments like when Chloe and Peach PRC were smiling together sitting next to each other on stage. The lights were some of the best I've ever seen at a show and the visuals on the big screen were always a pleasure to look at. These visuals ranging from flowers and butterflies, rainbows, stars to even one that combined with the colorful lights felt like there was a kaleidoscope on stage. Peach PRC's dancing on stage was both elegant and playful while matching the music. You could tell she was enjoying performing just as much as her fans were enjoying watching her. During her song "Josh", fans sang the line “stop calling me josh”, which I’d say was an entertaining moment for everyone except for anyone named Josh in the audience. "Like A Girl Does" and "Good Luck, Babe" were the lesbian anthems for the night and more proof that Peach PRC is a lesbian icon. There were even fans waving around pride flags.
Although one of the songs with the highest emotional impact would have to be "Heavy" with lyrics that if you've ever felt like you were too much to love, will hit you hard. Another one that emotionally hits and may even make you cry is "Favorite Person" with lyrics such as “I have created a version that hurts less” , which paints the picture of how it feels to still care about someone deeply who no longer cares about you. Midway through Peach PRC's set she gets off the stage and has a grand entrance where she comes back and is dancing on a pole. During "What Dreams Are Made Of, Peach PRC's guitarist even sang along with her. Although I don't think anything could prepare the audience for the encore, I was even surprised at just how insane the energy was for it and I knew it was coming since I saw it on the setlist on stage. No matter where you looked you’d see people dancing, even up on the balcony. The whole room felt like it was shaking and everyone was having a good time. Cascada would have definitely been proud if she witnessed this moment.
So if you happened to feel like the earth was shaking around you on June 13th, just know that it was Peach PRC turning up The Fonda and I'm sorry you missed out. Hands down one of the best shows I’ve seen from a visual perspective but also knew how to get a crowd hyped at the same time. You could tell both Peach PRC and Terror Jr. were both really excited for this show. I lost track of how many times the audience cheered and it was definitely one of the most fashionable audiences you’d see at a show.
It may be called the Secret PRC Tour but it was too amazing of a night to stay a secret. If you missed out this time, be sure to catch them next time.
On June 6th two LGBTQ+ icons, Xana and Rachel Bochner graced The Echo in Los Angeles with their incredible music. The show was the perfect way to start up Pride Month and the place was packed. We even got to see multiple pride flags. The headliner of the night was Xana and she left a lasting impression but Rachel also made an impact as well. There were even two fans in line who created a poster for everyone to write nice things down for Xana.
Rachel Bochner confidently came on stage with an outfit and a vibe that read as they’re cool and down to earth. Her purple eye shadow definitely stood out in the best way possible. Her setlist that night consisted of her songs such as, "Here For The Drama", "Ghosted My Therapist", "Angel Numbers", "Hard To Please", "Sucker Punch", "Creative Liberties", "Alchemical", "Graduation", "Groupie" and "You Don’t Want Me Like That". "Here For The Drama" is a song that anyone who’s ever had a problematic friend can connect to. Rachel’s smile during "Ghosted My Therapist" was radiant and you can tell she was having fun performing it from how she was jumping around while singing. Rachel’s drummer also seemed to be having a lot of fun as well, they always had a smile on their face. Her fans got excited for "Sucker Punch" and there were people with their hands in the air dancing along. Her song "Alchemical" came right out on Spotify the same night as well. Rachel often did moves with her hands as she sang although the most epic moments were when she interacted with her guitarist on stage during a song and when she got on her knees to sing. For the end of her set, she brought out Xana for "You Don’t Want Me Like That". The crowd sang along and everyone screamed when Xana came out. The two girls interacted with each other well on stage, playing along with each other's movements. Rachel even got on her knees for Xana and Xana ended up sitting on her lap while singing together. They were holding each other and it created a very intense performance that you could not look away from.
Now when Xana finally came out, the whole room was ready for it. The lights at times were even warm colors that matched Xana’s ginger hair color. She even got up in the audience member’s faces while performing giving them a moment to remember. She owned the stage and with her long hair had so many iconic hair flips that you’d lose track. Her hair in a way reminded me of flames. She has a dark pop-rock sound that has a lot of confidence and sensual energy to it. Her set list mostly focused on her new album The Sex Was Good Until It Wasn’t, with songs from the album such as "Lip Service", "Sick Joke", "Body,15", "FERAL", "Better Kind Of Best Friend", "Lavender" "Daughter", "Homewrecking Era", "Monster", "Earth Eyes", "The Sex Was Good", "January" and other songs such as "Pray", "Complex", "Baby Blue" and "Kitchen Sink". I thought it was cool that a lot of her songs had a rebellious feel to them which I think attracts a lot of her fans. She opened up with "Lip Service" and there was a cool moment during the song where she looked and pointed up during the line “like our planets just aren’t aligning”. During "Pray", Xana put her arms up as the audience sang one of the lines back to her, I also really liked the way she sang the line “ The devil was an angel first”. She made bold moves such as crawling on stage, jumping in the mosh pit and dancing with everyone but an even bolder move when she took her shirt off during her set. It was her way of saying I’m going to do me and I don’t care what society or other people have to say about it. She’s a role model in the realm of having confidence and just being yourself no matter what situation comes your way, to look up to.
Xana even did a Q&A during her set where she talked to fans, some fans were pretty bold with what they were asking and a couple even told her that they just got engaged. One of my favorite responses from her is when she said she was a thought daughter where she just spends her time thinking too much but also that if she did have a son he would definitely be gay in response to someone asking the question thot daughter or gay son. She even gave a fan the pride flag to wipe their tears away. However, the boldest thing said would have to be when a fan asked Xana to touch their chest and Xana double-checked to make sure that they knew what they were saying and to have their proper consent, which just goes to show you how much respect Xana has for the people around her. When Xana introduces her band she introduces her drummer in a way where it seems like her drummer is her girlfriend, which was a wholesome moment. Where’s she hugging the girl as well. She had a lot of energy in her moves for "Homewrecking Era" and "FERAL", such as her jumps and the way she titled her head back while singing and interacting with the crowd. For some songs, she even played guitar. Xana was a really awesome artist to see up close but watching her from the back of the crowd was a whole different perspective and equally as amazing. You got to see just how packed the space was and I even saw during her song Kitchen Light which is a fan-favorite, people dancing on chairs as well. The whole crowd was alive, be it from the back or the front.
The night truly was one to remember, even the sad songs had a lot of power to them. Rachel and Xana know how to put on a show and the fans ate it up. This was one of the best shows to start pride month with, it had so many moments where anyone from the LGBTQ+ community could connect with. The show was so good that it went by in a flash and you still wanted more. Xana’s music will get you hooked from the very first song you listen to, check her out if you haven’t already.
Buckethead may not be a household name. But if you are a music fan, especially if you are into guitar players, you damn well know who Buckethead is. This legendary guitar wizard who wears a KFC bucket on his head along with a white facemask has been melting faces at venues across the USA on his summer tour which made a stop in Los Angeles at The Wiltern Theater on Friday night June 14.
With no opening act, Buckethead who elevated his popularity playing with Guns N Roses from 200-2004 took the stage about 8:45pm opening the night with “Big Sur Moon” and proceeded to dazzle the capacity crowd for the next two-hours with his eccentric and totally innovative guitar playing. Buckethead started playing to a backing track then his band consisting of a bass player, drummer and occasional vocalist joined him onstage.
Buckethead's use of the Killswitch is mind-blowing as he wails on his custom white Gibson six-string. His hands are extremely large which obviously adds to his incredible playing style. The band ran through many Buckethead songs to be expected to hear live such as “Soothsayer” and “Gory Head Stump 2006: The Pageant of the Slunks” and they mixed in several covers such as “War Pigs” (Black Sabbath), “I Want it That Way” (Backstreet Boys) and “The Zoo” (Scorpions) . . . all played with such killer tone and style that had the crowd totally mesmerized.
Buckethead also does some unusual things onstage like doing a robot dance while playing with one hand and about ¾ through the show he put down his guitar and grabbed a sack of toys and handed them out to the crowd like Santa Claus. The band ended the night with the instrumental “Jordan” and at the end of the song Buckethead gave a little wave goodbye and left the stage. He never spoke, never lifted his mask, he just played guitar like nobody else can – an AMAZING night of music at The Wiltern.
Phish, the legendary jam band from Vermont, continues to push musical boundaries with their latest release, "Oblivion", from their their upcoming album, Evolve, set to drop on July 12th. Known for their genre-defying style and improvisational brilliance, Phish once again showcases their creative prowess and importance within the music scene in totality.
“Oblivion” stands out with its intricate instrumentals and thought-provoking lyrics, featuring layered guitar riffs, dynamic rhythm changes, and melodic explorations that take listeners on a journey. The song captures the essence of Phish’s live performances, with a structure that allows for improvisation and the unexpected. On the other hand, comparing it to another pre-released single, “Evolve”, listeners might take in a different yet complementary vibe. That track is loaded with funky bass lines, catchy hooks, and a more straightforward but equally compelling arrangement. Together, these singles demonstrate Phish's versatility and mastery of their craft, blending rock, jazz, funk, and even elements of classical music into a seamless auditory experience.
Now, let’s talk about the Phish community, or as they prefer to be called, Phishheads. This isn’t just a fan base; it’s a full-blown society with its own customs, rituals, and a collective enthusiasm that could power a small country. Phishheads are the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet at a concert, always ready to share a smile, a story, or something else if you catch my drift.... This sense of community extends beyond the concert venue, with fans maintaining connections and sharing experiences through online forums, and social media.
For those who have never experienced Phish live, attending a concert is a must. Phish shows are unique events where the setlist changes nightly, and the band’s improvisational skills shine, creating a one-of-a-kind experience each time. The energy in the venue is palpable, with the band feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm and vice versa. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or new to the scene, seeing Phish live is a transformative journey into the heart of musical exploration and collective joy. And be sure to grab a copy of Phish's upcoming release Evolve on July 12th. This long awaited album is sure to be an instant classic, and will surely highlight why this band is so special to so many all around the world.
- Brian Porter
Eminem is back, and better than ever, with his latest video "Houdini." This new release has taken the internet by storm, and it's no wonder why. From jaw-dropping visuals to unexpected cameos, "Houdini" is a feast for the eyes and ears.
The video kicks off with a bang, featuring a brilliant sampling of Steve Miller's classic hit "Abracadabra." This clever nod to the past sets the tone for what's to come—an electrifying blend of nostalgia and fresh creativity. Eminem weaves his lyrical prowess seamlessly with the iconic tune, creating a sonic experience that's nothing short of magical.
One of the standout aspects of the video is the array of cameo appearances. Fans will be delighted to see familiar faces from Eminem's storied career, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Shane Gillis, Pete Davidson, and even a surprise appearance by 50 Cent. These moments not only add star power but also highlight Eminem's influence and connections within the industry. Each cameo is perfectly timed and adds an extra layer of excitement to the already dynamic video.
The visuals in "Houdini" are nothing short of spectacular. The video is packed with vibrant colors, stunning special effects, and intricate choreography. Eminem's charismatic presence commands the screen, and his energy is infectious. The combination of captivating visuals and Eminem’s rapid-fire delivery keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. It's like reading a comic book and seeing your favorite sci-fi thriller all in one sitting!
Audience reactions to "Houdini" have been mixed but intense. Fans are raving about the video's creativity and the nostalgic elements, while critics seem divided. Some hail it as a masterful comeback, while others can't seem to get past their preconceived notions. Regardless, the buzz surrounding "Houdini" is undeniable, proving that Eminem still knows how to get people talking. In 8 days since "Houdini" was released, the video has racked up an incredible 55 million hits on YouTube. While incredible, its not surprising for a artist that continues to ascend while many others are on a rapid decline.
Bottom line, "Houdini" is a triumphant return for Eminem. With its brilliant use of sampling, star-studded cameos, and stunning visuals, the video is a must-watch for any fan of the rap icon. It's clear that Eminem still has plenty of tricks up his sleeve, and we can't wait to see what he pulls off next. And if the success of "Houdini" is any foreshadowing of his upcoming release, The Death of Slim Shady, fans and critics alike will need to once again brace for EM's greatness!
- Matthew Belter
I headed to Naples, NY to catch The Movement on their Ways of the World 5th Anniversary Tour. I got to hang out with the guys for a little before the show, what freaking cool dudes they are. So laid back and chill. I asked why two shows in Naples and it turns out that it is Matt’s hometown, which made it a pretty cool experience. At one point I was standing by the mech table for The Movement and a guy buys a shirt, the merch guy asked if he was from Naples and knew Matt, he said yeah, I’m his dad. Mech guy said wait why are you buying a shirt, “I got to support my son and the band.” It took place at Hollerhorn Distilling, a really beautiful spot up on a hill. Great atmosphere for a reggae show. If you are ever near Naples, you have to check out this spot, great spirits (the gin is really good) and food and the staff is awesome! My only complaint I had was the rain. It seems that every time I photograph an outside show, it rains. But I did not let it get me down, nor did it let the crowd down at all.
The show started off with aurorawave, lead by the former frontman for Iya Terra, Nathan Feinstein (Aurora) along with Iya Terra drummer Tanner Arebalo. While they played some Iya Terra favorites, I think what the crowd loved hearing was their original autroawave songs. While still new as a group with just a few songs, I was surprised to see so many signing along. Taken from their website, this sums up the style and vibe; "it is the sonic culmination of Nathan’s musical evolution. With unwavering authenticity, the band manifests as the genuine sound of Feinstein's artistry, a fusion of his diverse musical encounters. aurorawave invites listeners into a world where diverse influences converge, creating a sound that is uniquely and unmistakably its own. Masterfully harnessing the raw power of heavier genres and intertwining it seamlessly with the smooth cadence of reggae, aurorawave is a dynamic and genre-blurring force that encapsulates the band's unique musical vision." They put on such a fun show, Nathan belting it out as always, Tanner leading the way with the beat and two fantastic guitarist, lead guitarist was so solid and the bass player having so much fun with the crowd. No matter what your music genre go-to is, you need to check out their unique sound.
Next up was KBong & Johnny Cosmic and the rain to the stage, just when we thought the bad weather was passing us, the clouds opened up again. But it did not upset one person there (maybe me a little LOL), smiles everywhere, and how can you not smile listening to KBong and Cosmic? A few songs in they hit us with “Smiles on Faces,” the crowd singing right along with HUGE smiles on their faces. I don’t think KBong stopped smiling the entire set, I’ve notices this in the past, it always amazes me how upbeat and positive he is all the time! The crowd just feeds off his love and he feeds off the crowds love. The crowd just loved their set, signing along, swaying to the sweet grooves. I’ve seen KBong & Cosmic a few times together and many times with Stick Figure, and something that really hit me watching this performance, Johnny Cosmic has a fantastic voice! It’s not that I ever thought he didn’t have a good voice, but I just never heard it like I heard it this time. Maybe it was the small, intimate venue, being very close to the stage and speakers, maybe it was a smaller crowd (I think capacity was 500), but I caught myself not taking pictures at times and just listening to his vocals. So sweet! Great performance and the crowd was so ecstatic.
This tour is the 5th anniversary of their album Ways of the World, so of course they played the album for us, same order as the album. One of the best albums in the past 6-7 years in my opinion. The album was produced by Johnny Cosmic and what an amazing album it turned out to be, it is paced out to perfection. It starts out nice and chill, melodic, a sweet island feel. But it is organized in a way that the tracks that are more staunch and tough are supported by softer, more chill songs. Once again, it stopped raining between bands, but as soon as The Movement walks out on stage playing “Ways of the World” it opens up again with a nice steady rain. Again, not one person cared, just soaking in all the vibes and amazing music. Matt is always so hyped up on stage, but I think being back home he was even happier. Huge smiles all night long. Jason keeping the flow going all night with the baseline, bumpin’ that sound, Kyle keeping it all together, Gary thumping the drums, does his head ever stop moving, and great vocals from Josh, I think he sounds better and better each time I see them play.
As much as the crowd was grooving to and loved “Redwoodz” and “Take Me to the Ocean,” it was when they hit us with “Orange Sky” that we all went nuts. Probably my favorite song of theirs, it’s an anthem I try and live by; “And if I had the power to rewind these years/And travel back through the ages/I'd watch the story unfold through a river of tears/As I longed to rewrite these pages/You get out of bed and wonder how much money can you rake up/Then I'm afraid you're still sleeping/When are you gonna wake up/You can't live life for the weekend.” As they flowed through the rest of the album, the rain coming down harder and hared as if it was feeding off all the great vibes, but not one person upset about the rain, everyone thoroughly enjoying the show. After “Cool Me Down” they hit us with the Drums…..the beats flowing through the night sky! Always fun watching the crowd bobbin’ their heads to the drums! As they finish off the album with “Remember” we were not ready for this to end and they weren’t either. They bring us a few hits to finish off the night with some guest experiences! They start the encore with “Always Remember Me” and slide over to “Sounds of Summer.” And while it didn’t quite feel like summer, the chill island groove took us all there. They flow into “Fair Warning” and then “Kingdom,” keeping up the energy and vibes. And then they finished off this awesome journey with KBong and “Easy To Love.”
Every time I see The Movement they get better and better, stronger and stronger, we have not seen the best from them, whether it is in the studio or live. And getting to spend a little time talking with them, they are awesome guys, so down to earth and chill. You can’t help but love their vibe and groove. If you have never listened to them or heard them live, do yourself a favor, check them out. You will thank me. Another great night and performance by The Movement.
One Love - Todd
While Vybz Kartel received bad news not receiving bail for his retrial hearing starting on June 10th, his recent EP release Party With Me has jumped to the #2 spot on iTunes top 100 reggae albums in just a few days. It goes to show that fans still love the World Boss, in prison since April of 2014, and still crave his music. He has consistently put music out since his incarceration even though Jamaican prison officials have denied allowing him recording privileges, and while some are probably previously recorded songs or lyrics, Vybz has refused to explain the source of his recording, where some of his lyrical content includes current events.
The 8-track album includes 6 new songs along with two previously released in the mid-2010’s, "Ignite the World” and "Pale Blue Dot (Rihanna Wine)". The project was released under Kartel’s own label, Adidjaheim Records with collaborations from producers Din Din, TJ Records, Prod Panda, Redboom Supamix and ZJ Chrome. He starts of with “Dollar Dollar,” a nice quick flow from Vybz over a slow hard beat, Vybz changing up his cadence with the chorus. It’s a song that makes you want more new music from the World Boss. Next up is “Wet” a typical Vybz tune with the synthesized music and beat and the sexual lyrics that made him popular, “I make you wet, I make you moan, I make you wet, I make you moan.” “Tell Me What U Want” takes us to another spitfire lyrical song. Not one of my favorites, feel this falls a little short of what we expect from Kartel.
The title track, “Party With Me” is next, a really nice flow to this, a great beat and rhythm to this, probably the best track on the album. Another strong Vybz song that takes me back; “Mi liquor nice and mi weed have a vibes and/Mi just bathe, mi fresh, mi feel nice and/Come out clean, come out looking right and/Everybody a enjoy dem self/Plus mi alone wid you mi baby/Yah mi boo, yah mi best friend/Mi feel safe wid you beside mi/Mi nuh wah see di night end.” He hits us with another strong song, “Hot Shot.” A strong beat and flow with this, he hits with some tight lyrics. These songs seem to take me back to before his incarceration, which is not a bad thing. He hits us with back-to-back previously released songs, “Ignite the World” and “Pale Blue Dot (Rihanna Wine).” The album is finished off with “Ar 15,” a song that I was not completely into the first couple times through, but once I dove into the lyrics that changed. This might be the strongest lyrical track on the album. He really steps it up and kills it with this one!
We are all awaiting the retrial in hopes that Vybz will be found not guilty, we are craving more music, created in a studio. I can only imagine the difficulties these past years creating new music from behind bars. Jamaican dancehall has not been the same without Kartle running it. This is a solid album, especially considering he made it in prison, but we all know there is much better music to come from the World Boss.
One Love - Todd