Recent Posts

Sarah Jarosz at Appell Center in York, PA
Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, South Central PA

I MUST BE DREAMING—SARAH JAROSZ IN YORK

When a musician puts something out that sounds completely different than anything they’ve ever done, sometimes fans can get upset. It’s not what they are used to. People dislike change. It’s uncomfortable. However, people grow. People change. Their tastes change. Influences, friends, locales. They all change.  Polaroid Lovers, the latest album […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

DEER TICK: FROM DIVE BAR TO ROCK CLUB

In 2009, friends of mine, Pete and Lindsay—AKA Free Breakfast, hosted a music night every Monday at First Capital Dispensing Company—AKA The Cap. Sometimes, they would play by themselves; other times, friends would join in; and other times, they brought bands in from out of town to play. Back then, […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Rubblebucket Bring the Party to the Baltimore Soundstage – 11/13/23

What’s better on a chilly Monday in November than to jump and sweat to the bouncing brass sounds of Rubblebucket? Well, after Monday night at the Baltimore Soundstage I can unequivocally say there is nothing better. Rubblebucket, the dance-pop-art ensemble that released their sixth full-length LP, Earth Worship, last year […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Sultana Downrigger Festival brings it all: bluegrass, tall ships, fireworks, and seafood

This year, the Sultana Downrigger Festival, held annually in Chestertown, Maryland, featured an exciting blend of Bluegrass music, tall ships, fireworks, and incredibly delicious seafood. On Friday evening, after a late start from work, I found myself by the Chester River in Chestertown, Maryland. I arrived in time to catch […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

DragonForce Storm the Baltimore Soundstage on November 1, 2023

DragonForce is a power metal institution. There’s the lightning-quick guitar licks; metronome perfect drums that seem inhuman; and soaring vocals that continue to be the mainstay of their work. And while they never take themselves too seriously, there is some serious talent at work. The London-based DragonForce started nearly 25 […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Ocean’s Calling delivered an amazing three-day festival in Ocean City, MD

The Oceans Calling Music Festival in Ocean City, Maryland was a spectacular celebration of music, culture, and classic beach vibes. Nestled against the backdrop of the southern tip of the southern inlet along the end of the boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland, the event transformed the coastal town into a […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Matt and Kim Keep the Party Going at Rams Head Live! – 9/23/23

“Now see, that’s fuckin’ Baltimore. Baltimore’s always down,” Kim Schifino exclaimed to a packed room at Rams Head Live Saturday night. Schifino, along with Matt Johnson who make up the New York-based duo Matt and Kim, have a way of turning a soggy, wind-swept evening into a party in the […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

L7 Tear It Up at The Black Cat

“How many of you are seeing us for the first time,” Jennifer Finch asked the sold-out crowd at The Black Cat as more than a few held their hands up. A testament to the strength and relevance of the California-based band who formed back in the mid-1980’s, L7 returned from […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS TO SITE OF WOODSTOCK ’69

For the first time in 54 years to the weekend, a festival was held on the hallowed grounds that hosted Woodstock ’69, and what a weekend it was. Taking it’s name from the bird on the original Woodstock poster, the inaugural Catbird Music Festival was held this past weekend at […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Boy George & Culture Club with Berlin and Howard Jones

Seeing Boy George with Culture Club was always on my bucket list, and I recently got to check it off. Also on the tour (“The Letting It Go Show”), and checked off my concert list, were Berlin and Howard Jones.  It was an all-star 80s line-up! The start time of the […]

Live Music, Local Music

East Nash Grass at The Manor Mill

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to step out and make my way to The Manor Mill in Monkton, Md. This historic mill was buzzing with excitement as it played host to a sold-out show featuring the highly acclaimed bluegrass band, East Nash Grass. Their melodies had been gracing the […]

Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music

7.26.23 – Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit at the Harrisburg Riverfront

This show was part of a wonderfully curated series by HU Presents, who continues to bring the best music possible to Harrisburg and Pennsylvania. From the first moment we understand the what of a feeling – our grandfather’s tears, our sibling’s laughter, the blurry distance of our mother’s smile; the […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Le Tigre Return to Baltimore to Shake Things Up

“We wrote this around George Bush Jr time, and the lyrics are more relevant to what’s happening now than they were then,” Kathleen Hanna, singer of the dance punk trio Le Tigre told a sold-out crowd at the Baltimore Soundstage Wednesday night. “ I’m just saying it’s fucking weird… and […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Roadtripping with Weezer

Weezer is on a 30-city run of shows—Weezer’s Indie Rock Road Trip—and one of the stops was in Columbia, Maryland, at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Joined by Joyce Manor and Future Islands, they arranged an awesome playlist—all while snapping selfies and enjoying life on the road. There was a little mix-up at […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Tedeschi Trucks Band Returns to Wolf Trap

On June 27th, Tedeschi Trucks Band brought their summer tour to the iconic Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. As always, it was an absolute musical feast for the senses. The band’s exceptional musicianship, soulful vocals, and electrifying stage presence made for an incredible evening to remember. The energy […]

Live Music

Jeff Tweedy @ The 9:30 Club and Atlantis, 6.27-28

When Jeff Tweedy plays by himself, there is nothing between him, the listener, and the words. Songs that might’ve felt massive and almost-maximalist carry a soft intimacy. Lyrics that might’ve stayed behind the noise step into the spotlight. Experience is untranslatable; this one felt like a remembering joined with a […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Blink-182…Reunited, and It Feels So Good

Band History Blink-182 has had a stop-and-go sort of existence throughout their years since forming in 1992. They replaced their original drummer Scott Raynor in 1998 with Travis Barker. In 1999, Blink-182 was everywhere after the release of Enema of the State, the band’s third studio album. Breaking into the mainstream, the band […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Interviews

Joe P Reflects on his Debut Headlining Tour and the Unique Fan Experiences that Made it Unforgettable

I’ve been following Joe P for nearly three years and have had the pleasure of seeing Joe perform multiple times as he’s grown as a musician. This spring, Joe hit the road for his debut headlining tour after supporting other artists Spacey Jane, Joywave and Middle Kids over the last […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Delfest Anticipation is Over

That’s right, this past weekend  many of us took the yearly journey to Cumberland, MD for the  Delfest Bluegrass Festival. This years Fest boasted excellent weather great music and lots of positive interactions. The best part is to catch up and renew friendships and to make new friends that turn out to […]

Live Music

“I Still Believe Love is King” – The Patience of Trees by Niall Connolly

There are not enough words for love in English; Niall Connolly has found a way around our pretty language’s greatest deficit. With the songs of The Patience of Trees, Connolly has written a collection that explores all the sides of what it means to feel deeply: about a lover, about […]

Baltimore/DC, Highlights, Live Music, Local Music, Music News, What's New

DC Welcomes IMP’s New Music Venue: The Atlantis

Main Photo by Gary Gearhart The 930 Club and I go way back. I have seen and photographed countless shows in this beloved venue. However, I missed out on the original 930 Club venue. I was a bit too young for shows in the 80’s but I can only imagine […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, In the Spotlight, Live Music

The National Rock a Sold Out Set at The Anthem

@thenational return to DC to play two sold out shows at @theanthemdc

Concert Reviews, Live Music

I want you to know, Chisel’s star was killing me…

The much beloved indie-mod-pop band Chisel disbanded in 1997. I saw the band perform only twice before they split (both shows within months of each other in 1996.) On Saturday night, Chisel returned to The Black Cat in Washington, DC with support from DC’s Bed Maker and noise rock-ish New […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Charm City Bluegrass Festival 2023

Just like that festival season begins. With the new season comes the 10th Charm City Bluegrass Festival. This year in a new location. Although it has been held at Union Craft Brewery before, it was not held in Union Crafts newest location.  Friday The bands performed both inside the brewery […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Don’t Call It A Comeback: The Walkmen Return to Philly

I remember hearing The Walkmen years ago with a couple of friends who were already into them. I think there was an unspoken competition to see who could find the next cool band or record. I liked what I was hearing, but it wasn’t until their second album, Bows + […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Yeah Yeah Yeahs Return to DC and Kick Off their Cool It Down Tour

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs brought their iconic brand of punk-infused rock and roll to the nation’s capital for the first time in over a decade, igniting the stage at the Anthem for an unforgettable evening of music and mayhem. The sold-out crowd packed the venue to capacity, eagerly anticipating the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

The High and Wides at Manor Mill on 4-21-23

Sometimes music can pull you out of the day to day perils of a stressful busy life. This is exactly what happened to me on Friday evening at The Manor Mill in Monkton, Maryland. After I was worn out from a stress filled day of work, I was treated to […]

In the Spotlight, Live Music, Music News, Show Previews, What's New

Preview: The Walkmen Return to Philly, 5/4/23

photo by Andrew Palermo After, what was referred to as an “extreme hiatus” in 2013, The Walkmen – quintet of Hamilton Leithauser, Paul Maroon, Matt Barrick, Peter Bauer, and Walter Martin – are back!  And they are headed to Philly for not one, or two, but THREE shows at the […]

Concert Reviews, Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music, South Central PA

5 STEPS TO THROW THE BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY EVER ACCORDING TO LUCIUS

Indie-Pop Darlings Celebrate the First Birthday of Second Nature Lucius released Second Nature, on April 8th, 2022. The album was their first since the acoustic collection, Nudes was released in 2018 and a lot had changed for frontwomen Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig in those 4 years. The album addresses […]

Live Music

SOLO HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER IN HARRISBURG

Normally I am not a fan of solo tours. I want to see the band and feel the energy.  However, M.C. Taylor, who writes, records and performs as the face of Hiss Golden Messenger, basically said to me, “Here, hold my beer.” I have seen him with his band twice […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Steve Forbert at the Manor Mill

During my youth, cruising the back roads and listening to music was a thing that we all did for entertainment. There was no Google or Spotify or even for that matter personal computers, yes I’m old! So when a song came on the radio you had to wait until the […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

The Murder Capital Kicks In The Door at DC9

There have been a bevy of bands over the last few years that seem to inject much needed energy into this thing that is rock ‘n roll, and the one I’ve been looking forward to seeing but hadn’t – that is, until Friday night – was the Dublin-based The Murder […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Yo La Tengo Comes Out Swinging at the 9:30 Club

This stupid world – it’s killing me / This stupid world – is all we have What can you say about a band who, for the better part of 40 years has been a driving force in American independent rock and roll and, along with contemporaries like Sonic Youth and […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music

alt-J CELEBRATES AN AWESOME WAVE’S 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

alt-J’s debut album, An Awesome Wave, was released 10 years ago. 10 YEARS AGO?! I feel like an old man saying I can’t believe it’s been that long already. I was working at Hayman Studio when it came out and Ryan and I listened to it seemingly nonstop for months. […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Whiskey Feathers at Manor Mill

This past Saturday night, I found myself in Monkton, Maryland at the historic Manor Mill. I was not there to view the beautiful art produced by local artisans or to participate in the many classes they offer, but to see a band called Whiskey Feathers in the Mills music space […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Tedeschi Trucks Band – Warner Theatre – 3.4.23

The Tedeschi Trucks Band rocked the house at the Warner Theatre in Washington DC on the final evening of their 6 night run at the historic venue. The band’s blend of soulful blues and southern rock had TTB fans dancing in their seats from start to finish. Led by the […]

wide view of wood brothers at xl live harrisburg
Live Music, South Central PA

THE WOOD BROTHERS IN HARRISBURG

The Wood Brothers rolled into Harrisburg and let loose their unique, high energy blend of jazz, blues, gospel and folk music on enthusiastic fans at XL Live. Underneath an I-83 overpass, on an unassuming side street, across from the famous Savannah’s On Hanna strip club, XL Live has become the […]

Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

WEYES BLOOD TAKES PHILADELPHIA TO CHURCH

Performing the first of two sold-out shows at Union Transfer in Philadelphia, Weyes Blood gave the audience an ethereal, theatrical show composed entirely of songs from her critically acclaimed two latest albums – 2019’s Titanic Rising and 2022’s And In The Darkness, Hearts Aglow. Weyes Blood is the moniker of […]

Cory Wong Fillmore Philly
Concert Reviews, Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

CORY WONG IS THE MODERN FUNK MASTER

Cory Wong must be an alien. Or at least superhuman. Since 2016 he has released fourteen studio albums and seven live albums. And that’s just his solo stuff. He also plays guitar for The Fearless Flyers and Vulfpeck. The latter even has a song named “Cory Wong. Oh, he also […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Flogging Molly Rolls Up Its Sleeves at the Hall at Live!

Flogging Molly is a force to be witnessed. Led by Dave King, the band is steeped in both Irish folk and the punk rock ethos of The Clash. It’s a mix that’s kept this band going strong for nearly 30 years. And with a new album, Anthem, having been released […]

Sebastian Murphy of the Viagra Boys
Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music

VIAGRA BOYS KICK OFF WINTER TOUR AT THE 9:30 CLUB

Just a few months ago I had never heard of the Viagra Boys. Then all of a sudden my musician friends started bringing them up and telling me how much they loved them. When those friends tell me about a band it piques my interest because they usually hear something […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Low Cut Connie Returns to The Recher to Shake Things Up

On a chilly Friday night, Low Cut Connie rolled into Towson to heat things up at The Recher. Adam Weiner – band leader and driving force behind the Philly based band – is one heck of a showman, only matched by his boogie-woogie howl and that Jerry Lee Lewis meets […]

Danielle Ponder Philadelphia World Cafe Live
Concert Reviews, Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

DANIELLE PONDER MESMERIZES IN PHILADELPHIA

This will not be the last time you hear of Danielle Ponder. It was only thirteen months ago that she quit her job as a public defender in her hometown of Rochester New York to follow her dreams of being a full time musician. Her performance at Newport Jazz Festival […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Soul Asylum Brings It All Back To The Recher

Dave Pirner, the principal songwriter and longest member of Soul Asylum, had paid his dues long ago. Co-founding the band in 1981 as Loud Fast Rules, the name was changed to Soul Asylum a few years later before their debut LP in 1984. For forty plus years, Pirner has crafted […]

Music News, Philadelphia/New York, Show Previews

CORY WONG IS BRINGING THE PHUNK TO PHILLY

Grammy-nominated guitarist, bassist, composer, producer, podcast host, guitar teacher, and variety show creator Cory Wong has a lot on his plate. But what he does best is play hype man and conductor on stage with very talented musicians surrounding him. On Feb 24th, he’ll be doing that on stage in […]

Neal Francis
Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

NEAL FRANCIS…MAESTRO AND MOTIVATION

Neal Francis has been through some shit. We all have our skeletons in the closet. What is refreshing though, is Francis doesn’t keep them locked up in that closet. He comes right out and tells you about his struggles with addiction. He doesn’t hide the fact that he has had […]

Greensky Bluegrass FillmorePhiladelphia
Concert Reviews, Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS SOARS LIKE EAGLES IN PHILLY

E-A-G-L-E-S! EAGLES! I heard this chant so many times on Saturday night that I began questioning if I was at Lincoln Financial Field, where the Eagles were hosting a playoff game, or the Fillmore, where Greensky Bluegrass was set to take the stage.  Mikaela Davis opened the show on this […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

CHUCK IS BACK! moe. AT THE 9:30 CLUB

14 months and 23 shows. That’s what has passed since Chuck Garvey suffered a stroke. Fans of moe. weren’t sure if they would see the guitarist and founding member join the band on stage ever again. It’s been a slow, arduous journey for Chuck, but he is back.  On NYE […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Philadelphia/New York

WHO ARE YOU CALLING A JAM BAND? UMPHREY’S McGEE IN PHILLY

Say what you will about jam bands. Strong opinions are had about them. You love ‘em or you hate ‘em. Say what you will about Umphrey’s McGee – call them a jam band if you must. Lead guitarist, Jake Cinneger, understands how you may label them that and he’s sorta […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight

GARY GEARHART

Growing up my dad always had his Nikon with him and no matter what we were doing he was taking photos. He could care less about making artful photographs. He just wanted to capture the moments he shared with his friends and family. I loved dropping off rolls of film […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

They Might Be Giants get to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Flood… two years later!

There are some bands that are literally the soundtrack to your life, and They Might Be Giants would have to be one of those top bands for me. My love for TMBG goes back to their 1990 release, Flood. I don’t even remember how I found them – I likely […]

Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music

SHAKEY GRAVES HEADLINES COAST IS CLEAR FESTIVAL IN KEY WEST

November 30th marks the official end of the Atlantic Hurricane season. In the Florida Keys, residents have traditionally celebrated this by dousing hurricane flags in rum and then burning them. In recent years, a new celebration has come to Key West.  In 2017, after Hurricane Irma devastated the Keys, Billy […]

Live Music

Foxing lays it all out on the stage at the Ottobar

Foxing is one of those bands I had listened to; loved the song craft and texture of the music but had never witnessed live before. And if you know the band, you know the live show is an integral part of what makes this band. Made up of singer / […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Bright Eyes heats up a packed Baltimore Soundstage

After taking a break as Bright Eyes in 2011, the trio of Conor Oberst (vocals/guitar/piano), Mike Mogis (guitar/lap steel/mandolin), and Nate Walcott (keys/trumpet) made their big return to not only performing as a band but also putting together their first album since that time – released in the midst of […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Maxwell Lights Up the Theater at MGM National Harbor with “The Night Tour” 

Legendary R&B and neo-soul artist Maxwell has been very busy touring this year, much to the delight of his passionate and loyal fan base, many of whom go back to when he first took the music world by storm in 1996. He began earlier this year with a 25 city tour entitled “The Night Tour”, […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Silversun Pickups bring their Physical Thrills Tour to Rams Head

The SilverSun Pickups returned to Baltimore Tuesday night at Rams Head, nearing the end of their Physical Thrills tour. Physical Thrills, the bands most recent LP released earlier this year in August, features a full tracklist of Physical Thrills offers a large variety of sounds that feel polished and brand […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Cris Jacobs and Caleb Stine team up for a night of amazing music at The Recher

We all know the feeling of anticipation of a Friday night concert. That excitement lingers in the pit of your stomach all day. Well, multiply that feeling by 100, when it is a hometown troubadour. Cris Jacobs played to a packed house last Friday night at The Recher in Towson […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Joy Formidable and The Front Bottoms Wrap Up their Tour in Baltimore

The Joy Formidable is back and better than ever this fall. After nearly a year since their last US appearance, this Welsh trio was back on tour bringing the same energy we’ve always loved. Wrapping up the last night of tour with The Front Bottoms at Rams Head Live in […]

Concert Reviews, Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Can’t Get Joe P Off My Mind

Joe P is very different from most of the artists I typically listen to, and I’m not talking about sound or genre. I first stumbled across Joe on Tik Tok in August of 2020. Covid restrictions were still very heavy around that time which also meant no concerts, so it […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, South Central PA

White Rose Music Fest – York, PA

The White Rose Music Fest was announced towards the end of summer and as soon as we saw the line-up, we grabbed tickets and blocked off the weekend to enjoy this outdoor music festival in York, PA. For those who don’t know, York has some decent spots for music, and […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Toad the Wet Sprocket delivers a well rounded performance at The Strand Theatre in York PA

On a rainy Tuesday evening, fans of all ages packed the historic, 1,262 seat Strand Theatre in York, PA, for a 20-song set by Santa Barbara, California band Toad The Wet Sprocket. The Strand Theatre is one of two historic theatre’s in York which comprise the Appell Center for the Performing […]

Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music, Photo Recap

HU Presents Riverfront Park Concert Series – Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats

The week before The National closed out the concert series at Riverfront Park in Harrisburg, Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats treated us to an amazing show! We had an extra special treat because HISS Golden Messenger opening the show. HU Presents has really done an outstanding job of getting […]

Concert Reviews, Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music

The National @ Harrisburg Riverfront Park, 9.24.2022

This show was part of a wonderfully curated series by HU Presents, who continue to bring the best music possible to Harrisburg and Pennsylvania. Life is well-governed by the quietest loves and the loudest loves, with all those in-between half-forgotten. The moments when a snore tumbles onto a shoulder, a […]

Live Music

Josh Ritter delivers a heartfelt and intimate acoustic performance at The Appell Center

Brandon and I met up for drinks at Gift Horse Brewing Company in downtown York this past Friday evening. He was photographing Josh Ritter, and it was my birthday so we decided to meet for a long overdue happy hour prior to his show. While we sat outside enjoying a […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

IDLES Returns to DC to Bring Back the Love

Back in 2019, when IDLES made their first US stops in Baltimore and DC I came out of the experience saying believe the hype, and after having again witnessed this band take the stage at the 9:30 Club last year for two sold out shows and then again this past […]

Live Music

Lucy Dacus Brings the Heat to Rams Head Live! 7.25.22

It’s not every day you get to see magic happen, but when you do you know it immediately. At Rams Head Live!, on a sweltering July evening, Richmond native Lucy Dacus brought her Home Video tour to a sold out (twice!) Baltimore stop. Previously scheduled in April, the new date […]

Music News, Show Previews

Don’t Miss Steep Canyon Rangers this Thursday in York PA

This Thursday, July 14th the Appell Center for the Performing Arts will be the spot to be if you are a music lover. North Carolina’s Steep Canyon Rangers are stopping in York, PA as part of their current tour. Their style of Bluegrass with great musicians and awesome harmonies will […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, South Central PA

Lake Street Dive at the Appell Center, York PA

It’s a Wednesday evening in the city of York, Pa. On the corner of George and Philadelphia Streets there were a couple of tour busses parked on the curb. That could only mean one thing, there’s a band at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts and what a band […]

Live Music

Flogging Molly Shake and Rattle The Anthem With Help from The Interrupters

There’s something to be said for the knowing surprise.  That sense that there’s something that you know is going to happen but you aren’t prepared for how it’s going to go down.  Before Wednesday night at The Anthem in DC I knew Flogging Molly and had an appreciation of their […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music, Local Music

Long Awaited Return of Delfest!

Thursday morning, with much anticipation, I found myself on a westbound journey to my home that would last for the next couple of days. That’s correct, after a couple of years off due to the Pandemic Delfest was back on my plate! Upon arrival on the grounds, I visited with […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

5.5.2022 – The Triumphant Return of WTMD’s First Thursday

2 years and 8 months. It had been 2 years and 8 months since the last time WTMD hosted a First Thursday concert at the Canton Waterfront Park. They’ve had plenty of time to plan and they delivered, as they always do. They celebrated local music, emerging music in the […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music

Charm City Bluegrass, a Baltimore Tradition Returns

With much anticipation the festival season has started with the Charm City Bluegrass Festival. The return to music in these strange times is now upon us as the City of Baltimore serving as its host. In a book penned by Tim Newby entitled Bluegrass in Baltimore, you can see how […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music

The Triumphant Return of Charm City Bluegrass Festival

The Charm City Bluegrass Festival is back!  After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the festival which started in 2013 was back at Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park and you couldn’t have picked a better weekend.  The winter chill was gone (at least for now – I’m lookin’ at […]

Big Thief
Concert Reviews, Live Music, Photo Recap

Finding Revelation with Big Thief @ The Anthem, 4.21.22

Sometimes, the easy disenchantment of the music business overtakes us, its lab-grown and cut stones a little too much. Have you ever taken a fist-sized rock – maybe in your backyard, maybe somewhere in the woods – and cracked it against the ground, its hidden crystals shining on the pavement, […]

Live Music

Fireside Live with Tedeschi Trucks Band

On Monday evening I ventured into downtown York, PA to see the Tedeschi Trucks Band. This show was dubbed as Fireside Live, meaning that it was a scaled down version of the usual 12 piece Tedeschi Trucks Band.       To start the evening though, Raye Zaragoza opened the show. This […]

Album Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Show Previews

Revisiting Hiss Golden Messenger’s Poor Moon

God is good and it’s understoodhe moves in mysterious ways. M.C. Taylor Back in late 2012, as the leaves shed their false selves, I traveled along the dusty and unpoliced blogosphere, finding a song on my feed with an album cover featuring a red handprint, no artist named, and the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, Philadelphia/New York

Low Cut Connie Heats Up The Recher on a Freezing Night

What do you do when the world contracts and you start feeling boxed in? For Low Cut Connie, the creative vehicle for Philadelphia-based soul brawler, Adam Weiner, you find creative ways to push back outward. Shortly after the release of his most recently LP, Private Lives, Adam, frustrated with the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Singing Lamentations with American Aquarium – 12.9.21 @ Baltimore Soundstage

BJ Barham writes sad songs. Everybody knows that, and everybody writes about it. I won’t be any different. But before I do, let me remind you of an absolute truth: American Aquarium is one of the best rock bands operating in the world right now. BJ struts, dances, and tears […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Joe Bonamassa at The Lyric in Baltimore

Joe Bonamassa played The Lyric on December 4th to a crowd full of contemporary blues enthusiasts! His latest album, Time Clocks, is out now! Be sure to check it out along with his new live album Now Serving Royal Tea – Live at the Ryman. Visit his website for more […]

Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Pink Sweat$ Brought his Pink Moon Tour to DC’s 9:30 Club

On 12.3.2021, rising star Pink Sweat$ brought his Pink Moon Tour to DC’s 9:30 Club. The 25 city North American tour started on November 5th in San Diego and will end on December 16th in Dallas. I think it is safe to say that Washington DC is certainly feeling Pink Sweat$, as DC is the […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, South Central PA

Dead Horse Revival at Wehrly’s Auction House

Last Sunday afternoon, I had pleasure of seeing and listening to Dead Horse Revival at Wehrlys Auction House. Three of the members, Scott Matlock(fiddle), Cory Woodcock(banjo) and Chance Hurley(guitar) left over from The Mountain Ride days, have stayed together playing bluegrass for years now. The welcome addition of standup bass […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, Philadelphia/New York, South Central PA

Sultana Downrigger Festival in Chestertown, MD

On the Chester river lies the town of Chestertown, MD. On this weekend the town was filled with folks that enjoy tall ships, music and good food. Demonstrations, book talks, antique boats and motors. Along with lots of maritime lure and watermen related items. Ships on hand we’re the KALMAR […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Hillbenders Perform a Bluegrass Rendition of The Who

This past Saturday evening, I had the pleasure of going to the Appell Center of Performing Arts in York, PA to see The Hillbenders perform their bluegrass rendition of the music of The Who. The beautiful, Strand-Capital Theater now branded The Appell Center, made a perfect setting to witness this […]

Live Music

Blue Ridge Rock Festival 2021 — A Success or Not?

So, it’s taken me a bit to digest what happened between September 9-12. If you were anywhere near social media, or even watching national news, you may have caught wind of the debacle that was the Blue Ridge Rock Festival. In addition to there being a lot of production issues, the event […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

We Can’t Help But Focus on H.E.R. at The Anthem

On 10/25/2021, I was fortunate to be in the building as H.E.R’s Back Of My Mind Tour came to Washington DC. Many in the sell out crowd spent several hours outside in the rain (waiting for the doors at The Anthem to open), so they could find a prime spot close to the […]

Live Music, Music News, Show Previews

The Hillbenders will Bring their Bluegrass to Downtown York this Saturday

On Saturday evening The Hillbenders will bring their bluegrass version of The Who to The Appell Center for the Performing Arts in York PA. Starting at 7:00 PM the stage will heat up with the Hillbenders performing some of the iconic songs of The Who. Formed in 2008 in Springfield,Mo […]

Live Music

Local H Rattles the Soundstage

It goes without say, really, that a lot of things have changed over the past year and a half.  In the world of touring musical acts, shows have been canceled or tours put on hold or, in the case of Local H, a show that was originally set for a […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Dayglow at the 930 Club

Setting the week off on an out-of-this-world note, Dayglow brought his debut and sophomore albums to life last Tuesday, October 19th. We’ve all been eager to hop back into the music scene after the hiatus caused by Covid-19, and watching Dayglow’s performance was an amazing way to return. With vivacious […]

Live Music

Madison Cunningham at The Miracle Theatre

Perfectly placed on Capitol Hill, The Miracle Theatre brings the element of live music to the already bustling night life in the area. Headlining the stage on Saturday, October 23rd was Madison Cunningham, a 25 year-old Californian singer and songwriter. Cracking off her performance with “Last Boat to Freedom” off […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Marcus Machado and Friends Rock The Songbyrd DC

Marcus Machado and Friends Rock The Songbyrd DCOn 10/19/2021, I had the privilege of checking out Marcus Machado performing at the Songbyrd DC (which was recently located from 18th Street NW in Adams Morgan to Penn Street, NE near Union Market).  The show lineup included Moon Newbill and her band, followed by Marcus, with […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Larkin Poe is a “Self Made Man”

Blues has been dominated by man. But I feel that these days the woman are killing it! Larkin Poe are proof of that. The two sisters, Rebecca & Megan Lovell , descendants of tortured artists and creative genius Edgar Allan Poe, hail from Atlanta. Well that explains why the set the […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, South Central PA

Charm City Bluegrass Fall Throw Down 2

I arrived at Key Brewing in Dundalk, MD on Friday, October 15th, a bit early for the Charm City Bluegrass Fall Throw Down 2. I was nervously excited for the event after about a 2-year hiatus from live music festivals. I’ve been out to a handful of local bands mostly […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Angels and Airwaves – MGM National Harbor

Angels and Airwaves performed at the MGM Grand Theater on October 15, 2021, a stop along their Lifeforms Tour 2021.  The band is touring in support of their new album recently released. Have a listen to the new album on Spotify and visit their website for tour dates and more […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Want to Help Save Humanity? Be Like Boise

Boise Sets the Stage for How to Rock in Respect at Treefort Music Fest Despite national headlines about Idaho’s dismal record on Covid vaccinations and predictable overcrowding in emergency rooms, Boise’s Treefort Music Fest may be a model for how to bring out the best in people in the ongoing […]

Music News, Show Previews

H.E.R. Brings the “Back Of My Mind Tour” to The Anthem in DC on 10/25/2021

This month H.E.R. will be hitting the road for her “Back Of My Mind” Tour, which follows the release in June of her album of the same name. The tour will hit 9 cities in 19 days, including stops in: Franklin, TN on 10/10 Grand Prairie, TX on 10/13 Sugar Land, TX on 10/14 Boston, […]

Music News, Show Previews

All Things Go Festival Next Weekend at Merriweather Post Pavilion

The 2021 installment of the annual All Things Go Festival is almost upon us and excitement surrounding the festival is palpable. This year’s events will be taking place at Merriweather Post Pavilion on Saturday, October 16th. The festival will feature headlining sets from Haim, St. Vincent, Charli XCX, Girl In […]

Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music, Photo Recap

Cage the Elephant Rocks the Riverfront in Harrisburg

Monday night in Harrisburg, people from all around anxiously anticipated the return of Cage the Elephant at Riverfront Park. Originally scheduled for June 2020, the show was postponed over a year later due to the coronavirus pandemic that brought all in-person live music to a halt. Now, halfway through 2021, […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Charlie Wilson Energizes The Theatre at MGM National Harbor with an “Outstanding” Performance

Last night Charlie Wilson and his amazing band and dancers performed at the Theatre at MGM National Harbor. They set fire to the stage for an amazing 1 hour and 45 minute show that left the pumped up, enthusiastic crowd wanting more! It seems that shows at the Theatre at MGM have to end at 10PM, or […]

Album Reviews, Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Third Eye Blind – Our Bande Apart

In March of 2020, I had tickets to see Third Eye Blind perform in my favorite venue in D.C. – the 930 Club. It sold out immediately and I was so excited to have secured tickets. However, just a few weeks before the date of the show, everything changed, and […]

Hiss @ Billsville
Concert Reviews, Live Music

Finding Backyard Sanctuary with Hiss Golden Messenger @ Billsville

“I can make it, I think.” M.C. Taylor (Hiss Golden Messenger) shared those words in the lead-up to releasing Quietly Blowing It, written in his journals near the edge of disaster in England. It’s a quietly prescient and subversive statement, one that betrays more about what it means to exist […]

Live Music, Music News, Photo Recap

Shinedown Continues to Shine

On September 8, 2021, Shinedown returned to the DC area performing at Warner Theater. The band is in top form after the break in touring due to Covid-19. The 18-song setlist included a great variety of songs including “Cut the Cord”, “Save Me”, and Lynyrd Skynyrd cover “Simple Man”. Shinedown […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

HU Presents – Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit

First Concert in well over year. During the past month I have actually thought to myself, I don’t know if I want to photograph a show. Not really for any other reason than I have had life going in different directions. So Saturday comes around I start getting anxious, in […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Hot August Music Festival Turns Up the Heat at Oregon Ridge

The Hot August Music Festival at Oregon Ridge in Cockeysville, Maryland has been going strong for nearly 30 years!  After not having a festival last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, festivalgoers were eager to get back to the lawn, and in addition to the great food and activities for […]

In the Spotlight, Live Music, Music News

The Darn Good Music Festival turns out to be just that: No Darn Good

It has been a long 18 months without concerts. Music lovers around the country are hungry for live music and now that venues and festivals are slowly opening back up, fans are jumping at any opportunity to see their favorite artists perform live. Things have been difficult for so many […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Rise Against Performs at MECU Pavilion

Rise Against pulled into MECU Pavilion in Baltimore MD on 8-3-2021 for their Nowhere Generation tour. The tour includes supporting acts, The Menzingers ( their first night on the tour ) and Descendents . MECU Pavilion was full of energy! Rise Against opened with “The Numbers” and rolled right into […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Jason Narducy @ Club 603

A few lessons from a backyard punk rock show You cannot numb your anger selectively It is better to laugh You cannot deaden the expression of your love Expansion is the way forward Love is real Pain is the con I parked where I always park, as close to the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Japanese Breakfast fired up the emotions at The Fillmore last week

As the days were counting down to July 21, 2021, I was getting increasingly nervous and filled with emotions. Anticipation, excitement, anxiety, uncertainty, and some emotions I don’t know how to describe. Japanese Breakfast was kicking off their first tour for the first time since COVID-19 erupted. I, and the […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Dirty Heads and Sublime with ROME at MECU Pavilion Baltimore

It was a hot summer’s night this past Friday at Mecu Pavilion in Baltimore. However, the High and Mighty tour featuring Sublime with ROME & The Dirty Heads kept it nice and chill. This was a great show to see after going over a year with no live music! Sublime […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Dustbowl Revival at Rams Head on Stage Annapolis

On July 9th, this past Friday, was the feeling  we all were waiting for… that moment of goosebumps and feeling of music hitting your chest with a THUMP! Dustbowl Revival took the stage at Rams Head on Stage in Annapolis to a crowd that was ready to hear and feel […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

Warren Haynes at Northlands Live, New Hampshire

An unseasonably cool and drizzly evening greeted Warren Haynes and special guest Zach Nugent at Northlands Live in Swanzey, NH for the third of Haynes’ four date solo ‘tour’ on Friday night. The inclement weather, however, didn’t dampen the enthusiasm for all three. Haynes, Nugent and the socially distant crowd […]

Concert Reviews, Florida, Live Music

The Allman Betts Band and River Kittens at Hard Rock, Live – Orlando

It is hard to believe that the last time I stepped into Hard Rock, Live was 18 months ago.  Walking through those doors and seeing the familiar faces of the bartenders and security folks…well it just felt GOOD.   So did seeing all the fans that showed up for one […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music, Local Music

Baltimore Soundstage Opens with a Successful Weekend of Shows

Musicians, Venue Owners, and the Concert Enthusiast have all been waiting for the day when live music can once again be performed on a stage in front of a club filled with fans. It’s been a long year and we are now starting to see signs of life in the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Live-Streams

Streaming Concert Review – Debórah Bond at Blue House Live

As a huge music fan, I have REALLY been missing live performances. When I heard that Ms. Debórah Bond would be performing live on 3/19/2021, I decided to pay the (very reasonable) $20 fee and check out her performance. The show was streamed live from Blue House Studio in Silver […]

Baltimore/DC, Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Local Music

“Fine, But Not Okay” with Hallelujah the Hills

March 14th, 2021  The reality of the pandemic settled into my heart 365 days ago this morning, every slice of information I can find promising this virus would be worse than we feared. The sudden onset of a break – schools closed, world slowed – held nearly no peace, no […]

In the Spotlight, Music News

2020: As It Happened – A Playlist by Alex Koch

Around this time last year I had an idea that has been trending around the internet for a few years now. Make playlist of a song a day throughout the course of a year and reflect on that list when the year closes. Well, I figured I’d compile songs on […]

Live Music, Live-Streams

Chaka Khan – 2020 Vision Streaming Concert

We are all coming to grips with how this pandemic has changed our lives. The entertainment industry has been hit especially hard.  Many artists earn a significant portion of their income by touring, and the pandemic has made that pretty much impossible. More artists are now turning to streaming shows […]

Concert Reviews, Highlights, Live Music

An October Evening with Grace Potter

Just half a year (or a lifetime) ago, live music stopped, the world all but halted, and we started collectively telling ourselves lies about the return of normal. And that last bit’s okay, I think, as a need for hope is sometimes stronger than the impulse for honesty.It’s why we […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music

Fall Shows at Jammin Java

As we have been saying for the last two months, we are so thankful for Jammin Java hosting small outdoor shows for us music lovers! September and October is packed with shows, so please be sure to visit their website for live music happening throughout the upcoming months! Here’s a […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: A Song and A Slice at Jammin Java

Thanks so much to Mike Stone for going to the 4-day run of shows at Jammin Java this past week and weekend! Take a look at the artists who performed August 6-9th and give Mike a follow on Instagram for more concert photos! Be sure to visit Jammin’ Java’s website […]

Music News, Show Previews

The Front Bottoms: New Album, New Concert Experience

It has been 5 months since my last concert. This Covid life adjustment has been challenging coming from someone who attended shows on a weekly basis. Live-stream performances have been a nice change of pace; however, there really is nothing like a live performance. A few bands have been developing […]

Album Reviews, In the Spotlight, Music News, What's New

New Music Friday 8.7.2020

Note from These Subtle Sounds: if you like something and you have the means, please pay for it beyond your chosen streaming services. Streaming services do not provide musicians with reasonable payment for their work. While we include Spotify due to streaming’s ubiquity, we have also linked Patreon, Bandcamp, and […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

A Full Weekend of Shows at Jammin Java to Wrap up July and Kick off August

Jammin Java was hopping this past weekend with shows Thursday-Sunday, sending July off with a bang and welcoming the month of August with some great musicians. As always, special thanks to Mike Stone for capturing these great shots from the shows! Give him a follow on Instagram! Be sure to […]

Album Reviews, In the Spotlight, Music News, What's New

New Music Friday 7.31.2020

Note from These Subtle Sounds: if you like something and you have the means, please pay for it beyond your chosen streaming services. Streaming services do not provide musicians with reasonable payment for their work. While we include Spotify due to streaming’s ubiquity, we have also linked Patreon, Bandcamp, and […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Jammin Java Weekend with Ethan Schaefer, Washington Social Club, and Two Ton Twig

As always, special thanks to Mike Stone for grabbing some photos of the performances this past weekend! We are always happy to have him contribute to These Subtle Sounds! Be sure to check out Mike Stone on Instagram for more of his concert photos! Ethan Schaefer Ethan Schaefer is a […]

Live Music, Live-Streams

Maurice “Mobetta” Brown live from the Blue Note in NYC

On 7/24/2020, Grammy award winning trumpet player, composer and producer Maurice “Mobetta” Brown and his all-star band performed live at the legendary Blue Note in New York City. The show was streamed live on BlueNoteLive.com. Brown is the first artist to be featured in the Blue Note’s Live Streaming concert series. Given the current […]

Album Reviews, In the Spotlight, Music News, What's New

New Music Friday: 7.24.2020

Note from These Subtle Sounds: if you like something and you have the means, please pay for it beyond your chosen streaming services. Streaming services do not provide musicians with reasonable payment for their work. While we include Spotify due to streaming’s ubiquity, we have also linked Patreon, Bandcamp, and […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight

Remembering Chris Cornell on his Birthday

I was introduced to the talent of Chris Cornell in the 90’s through Audioslave, Soundgarden, and Temple of the Dog. His voice carried me through my turbulent teen years and into college. However, it wouldn’t be until his first solo album, Euphoria Morning, that I would start to emotionally connect […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight

No Room for Country Music on the Radio

I am proud to say I am a fan of country music. I love the cowboy way of life. I work hard with my hands, with horses, and I have no problem saying how I feel. I love this country. I will wave the beautiful flag of ours proudly. I […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music

July Weekends at Jammin Java

We are really missing live music. Slowly, we are seeing some outdoor shows emerge featuring the amazing talent of our local musicians. Jammin Java has been featuring their “Song and a Slice” concert series every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening in July. Special thanks to Mike Stone for help with […]

Album Reviews, Highlights, Music News, What's New

New Music Friday: 7.17.2020

We here at These Subtle Sounds have been working to navigate the new world we inhabit as best we can, trying to figure out what we can do to keep carrying the music flame. We typically and historically have focused on covering live music – and we’ve certainly written about some livestreams […]

In the Spotlight, Music News

We’re All Just Trying to Survive 2020

During all the 2020 madness, I’ve been making a playlist each month. The playlist is filled with songs by artists I was going to photograph, songs I was listening (both old and new), and songs I’ve been discovering. The amount of songs on each list is equivalent to however many […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Wandering Lies Performs at Jammin’ Java on July 11

Wandering Lies performed two power-packed sets at Jammin Java this past Saturday! The performance is part of a Song and a Slice series which is taking place in the parking lot of Jammin Java throughout the month of July. The 5-piece band from D.C. rocked the audience with some great […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music

July 4th Weekend: Celebrating with Live Music at Jammin Java

Jammin Java delivered another weekend of live music including a Friday night sold out show with Oh He Dead and a July 4th show with Courtney King! Special thanks to Mike Stone for contributing these photos and thanks to Jammin Java for bringing some live music back into our lives! […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music, Music News, Show Previews

Live Music Returns to Jammin Java: A Song and a Slice Concert Series

As the world slowly emerges from Covid-19 lockdown, more establishments are opening and getting creative on establishing the “new normal”. Jammin Java, who frequently hosted live music prior to the Covid shutdown, has come up with a way to treat locals to great live music and donate to a good […]

Baltimore/DC, Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Local Music, South Central PA

Wrapping Up Pride Month with a Featured Video by Featherburn: Woven

We began Pride Month with a great video and song by Mary Prankster called Sweet Beet, and we are ending the month with this moving song by Featherburn that is worth a listen! Featherburn is a local band from Baltimore/DC area who will be releasing a new EP soon. The […]

In the Spotlight, Music News

Iconic Songs and The Stories Behind Them

Through the years songs have helped define our experiences. They’ve acted as musical landmarks that we associate with both the good and the bad experiences we’ve had in our lives. This all adds up to become what can be considered as the soundtrack for the collective human experience. But how […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Live-Streams, Music News, What's New

Rising Artist Spotlight: India Shawn

I am a music lover and I will be the first to admit that  most of the music I listen to is from “back in the day”. For me, that would be Soul and R&B from the 70s and 80s, Hip Hop and R&B from the 90s and Soft and […]

Live Music, Live-Streams

Alone Together. Grace Potter Reminds Us that We Have “Eachother”

The other day, Grace Potter shared this post below on her social media platforms and it really struck a chord with me. It is now into the 11th week that I have been pretty much alone in my house with just my immediate family. As most of us are experiencing, […]

Baltimore/DC, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music

Bridging the Digital Gap with Charm City Bluegrass

A mere day after the festival should have ended, Charm City Bluegrass (and a bunch of wonderful co-hosts) held a Corona-era special Digifest live from The Gordon Center.  While none of us traveled to Druid Hill Park to take in the folk and bluegrass that has come to define the […]

In the Spotlight, Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Live Music Part 3

Enjoy this collection of amazing musicians!

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Live-Streams, Music News

Music is Life and Here is the Proof

This month, the music industry experienced some great losses due to Covid-19. However, in the sadness we find comfort in music. We are so appreciative of the many musicians who are doing what they can to remind us that we are all in this together. Enjoy this little collection of […]

Baltimore/DC, In the Spotlight, Interviews, Local Music

Interview: Tony Correlli of Deep End Studio

Baltimore has always been known for having a great music scene. We have several dedicated, talented musicians who bring the joy of music to our city. Several awesome bands have risen out of Baltimore including Wye Oak, Dan Deacon, and Beach House. Just before everything shut down, I met up […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Live Music Part 2

Enjoy this collection of amazing musicians!

In the Spotlight, Live Music

Happy Birthday Robert Smith

It is obvious to anyone who knows me, The Cure is my favorite band. Not only do I connect with The Cure musically, the band has been responsible for so many wonderful friendships in my life – many of which I have had for close to 20 years. Entire vacations […]

Live Music, Live-Streams, Music News

Musicians: Sharing Happiness during Quarantine

We are now officially wrapping up the third full week of quarantine. It sucks. Not going to lie. In addition to the 25 shows, as a team, we have missed in these last 3 weeks, we are now facing show cancellations currently reaching into June. It truly feels like this […]

Baltimore/DC, In the Spotlight, Interviews, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music

Sidewalk and Screen Serenades with The Honey Dewdrops: An Interview

For years now, The Honey Dewdrops – Laura Wortman and Kagey Parrish – have acted as representatives of so much of what’s good in Baltimore. They adopted Charm City a half-decade or so ago and have quietly woven their songs into its tapestry.  They champion community, consideration, and a deeper […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Missing Live Music: Highlighting those Memorable Shows

Since I have been missing live music as of lately, I spent some time revisiting some videos that I have taken at several shows that I’ve attended. While I photograph a lot of shows, I don’t always remember to take videos. Recently, I have been trying to capture one or […]

Baltimore/DC, In the Spotlight, Interviews, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music

Sugar Highway with Cathy and Chris: Staying Positive During a Difficult Time

Our lives have been changed in light of the Covid-19 virus. This has been a very challenging experience for many people in our country AND around the world. Music has always been a lifeline in helping people to get through tough times. However, with our music venues closed and social […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music, Music News

Live-Stream Shows for March 21-22

We hope everyone has enjoyed this week of live-streamed concerts by so many of our local musicians! Next week, we will be shifting our focus on music coverage but will still share live-stream updates with you on Facebook! As we round out this first week of self-quarantine, check out this […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music, Music News

Live-Stream Shows for March 20th

Cathy DiToro and Chris Kamsch Join Cathy DiToro and Chris Kamsch who will be doing an 80’s themed live-stream tonight at 7 PM! This will surely be a lot of fun! Click here to join to catch their live-stream and check out their last live-stream from Wednesday! Be sure to […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Live-Streams, Local Music, Music News, Philadelphia/New York

Live-Stream Shows for March 19th

Here’s are compilation of some of the many musicians performing online this evening. The following artists are all local to MD-DC-VA-PA area and their times are mostly staggered so that you can hopefully check each one out! Consider following them on Facebook as well! Enjoy! Ashleigh Chevalier Tonight, join Ashleigh […]

Live Music, Live-Streams, Music News

Live-Stream Shows for March 18th

Last night was a great night of live-stream shows and we can’t wait for tonight! As we move forward over the next several weeks, we are going to do our best to summarize each night’s live-stream options. We know that these are not the ONLY musicians out there supplying us […]

Live Music, Live-Streams, Music News, Show Previews

Live-Stream Shows for March 17th

We are going to try and keep everyone up to date on the MANY live-stream shows taking place over the next several weeks. Please keep our musician and service industry friends in mind as they make their way through this unexpected event. Musicians love to share music with their fans. […]

Highlights, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Music is Still With Us

As we are all dealing with the stress and anxiety of the current events in our world, I felt the need to say a few things. Maybe this is a way to deal with my own stress and anxiety. With many bands suspending their tours and venues postponing shows, it […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen at Stages Music Arts

Touted as Franks Birthday Bash with two unique sold out sets, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen came to Stages Music Arts in Cockeysville, Maryland this past Saturday night. The venue was really nice. Although small, it was very intimate and provided an “up close” feeling to the enjoyment of the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Kiana Ledé Delivers a Stellar Performance at WKYS International Women’s Day Concert

Rising R&B star Kiana Ledé was the headliner for the 93.9 WKYS International Women’s Day Concert, held on 3/7/20 at The Fillmore in Silver Spring, MD. The event also featured opening performances from up and coming artists Alex Mali and The Bonfyre. In addition, DJ Reece and WKYS on air personalities […]

Joe Pug, Serenade
Concert Reviews, Live Music

Breaking and Repairing Hearts with Joe Pug

Late February, and spring rises, carrying floods of all kinds: sunlight, rain soaked, flash, flower, hope. Winter, in all its irrepressible glory, has lightened its yoke, letting the world wake anew.  When we woke, the ground had frozen.  When we walked the streets of Philadelphia, we needed no coats.   […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Finding the Days’ Rhythms with Letitia VanSant

We humans – maybe even all things on this planet – are governed by cycles, responding to light and darkness. With the sun’s rising, we awaken our souls, and with the sun’s setting, we slip into the ambiguity of dreaming. We change, but it’s the same everyday.  Until it’s not.  […]

Album Reviews, Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Local Music

Be Well Celebrate their EP Release at Songbyrd Music House D.C.

This past weekend, the newly formed band, Be Well packed the upstairs room at Songbyrd Music House in D.C. The much talked about band may be new to the scene; however, the five members that make up Be Well are deeply rooted in the area’s hardcore punk music scene going […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Jimmie’s Chicken Shack and Last Kiss Goodnight – Fish Head Cantina

Annapolis Maryland’s own, Jimmie’s Chicken Shack, teamed up with Last Kiss Goodnight to bring a fun night of music to the Fish Head Cantina on February 28th. Jimmie’s Chicken Shack provided the soundtrack to many high school and college students during the 90’s. Best known for their song, Dropping Anchor, […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Joe Bonamassa Brought the Blues to Clearwater Florida

Joe Bonamassa recently played two shows at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL and I was lucky enough to attend the first night.  For those not familiar with Mr. Bonamassa, he has been blessing the stage since the late ’80s and has played alongside some amazing musicians such as BB […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Rising Vibes Reggae & Ska Festival warmed things up in Orlando on a chilly Saturday

WJRR 101.1 & Real Radio 104.1 teamed up this past weekend to bring the RISING VIBES Reggae & Ska Festival to Orlando. This was the first of what we hope will become a yearly event at the Orlando Amphitheater and it was FANTASTIC.     The day started out with BEAUTIFUL weather […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Baby Rose Delivers an Impressive Homecoming Performance at Songbyrd Music House

On February 24th, rising star Baby Rose brought her uniquely impressive voice to the Songbyrd Music House in DC as part of her To Myself Tour. The tour started on 2/20 in Chicago and ends in Oakland on 3/16. Baby Rose has a strong international following as well; she will be performing in major European […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Saint Motel and Kolars take things to a whole new level at 930 Club

Saint Motel brought their Motion Picture show to life, quite literally, at 9:30 Club with help from Kolars. To some, Saint Motel comes off as your typical bubble gum pop band, but they’re so much more than that upon further sonic inspection. Saint Motel successfully incorporates elements of disco, nowave, […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Thrice Brings Down The House of Blues, Orlando

The Vheissu 15th Anniversary Tour rolled into O-Town Sunday, February 16th with headliner Thrice and supporting acts mewithoutYou, Drug Church and Holy Fawn.  Doors were slated to open at 5:30pm and fans lined up early and wrapped around the side of The House of Blues for this sold-out show.  After […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Crossing Hearts and Holding Fast Hope with Thrice

When we were small – or smaller than we became – my brother and I paced paths into the carpets and hardwoods of our childhood home, each listening to CD after CD on our Walkmen (his candy red, mine bumblebee yellow). We’d trade CDs, talk about the songs,  otherwise letting […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Spotlights Brought their Grandeur of Grind to Metro Gallery in Baltimore

If, in Microsoft Word, one is to right click on the word rumble looking for synonyms, suggestions would include roar, growl, boom, thunder and crash.  Additionally, substitutes for the word beauty contain gorgeousness, magnificence and splendor.  Perhaps some combination of these might come close to capturing the unequivocal elegance and […]

Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: HU Presents – Misterwives at XL Live

Harrisburg University Presents packed the house at XL Live for the second Friday in a row. This time we rocked out to the New York natives, Misterwives. The band consiss of lead singer Mandy Lee, percussionist Etienne Bowler, bass guitarist William Hehir, guitarist Marc Campbell, multi-instrumentalist Jesse Blum, and saxophonist […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Iron & Wine and Clexico take over The Anthem D.C.

Iron & Wine and Clexico are always what I put on when I need to be reminded to breathe. They’ve always had a delicate, soothing sound, and their new album is no different. Sam Beam, whose stage name is Iron & Wine, has the most comforting voice and beautiful lyrics […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Connells Deliver a Rare Performance at Rams Head Live, 01-25-20

Sometimes a band with songs that have a particular power pop sound can be defined by the decade in which they broke out because they sound like every band from that era. And then some bands write songs that stand out, ones that shine in your memory like shiny pennies […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Machine Head brings the BURN MY EYES 25th Anniversary Tour to Orlando

It was a crisp winter evening in Orlando when Machine Head entered the House of Blues for the first time in 13 years!  Yup, that’s right. Disney banned Machine Head for a number of reasons including violent imagery, inflammatory lyrics and “undesirable fans” (it’s not easy being metal), and since the […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Devil Makes Three at Rams Head Live in Baltimore

The Devil Makes Three performed at Rams Head Live this past Thursday and they rocked it. I have had the pleasure of seeing this band perform several times over the past 10 years after a friend shared their music with me. Although I have been a fan for such a […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Local Music

Building Community with Caleb Stine and the Brakemen

For the better part of two decades, Caleb Stine has had a hand in a Baltimore folk-revival that continues to grow. His collaborative and open spirit defines the music, his shows an experience in interconnectedness. Caleb champions other musicians as often as he can, freely talking about the musicians that […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Steep Steps, The Henchmen, and more: A night of local music at Baltimore Soundstage

This past Friday evening, five local bands performed at Baltimore Soundstage. We had a great time checking out some fantastic musicians who call Baltimore home and want to share this talent with those who may not be familiar with these bands. Steep Steps Steep Steps is an indie-electronic project led […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Dead South takes over The House of Blues Orlando with the Served Cold Tour

The Served Cold Tour arrived in Orlando on one of the coldest evenings of the year.   Thankfully the House of Blues folks had pity on those of us outside waiting in a chilly 42 degrees (Florida people do NOT have the proper clothing for this!), and opened the doors […]

Concert Reviews, Florida, Live Music, Local Music

Native Noise presents Orlando Rocks! at the House of Blues

What happens when a headliner has to reschedule a show with only one-week notice? Well if you are the House of Blues, you reach out to WJRR and Supa Dave to fill the venue; and fill the venue they did! The house was packed with a “Native Noise Presents Orlando […]

Album Reviews, In the Spotlight, Music News, Show Previews

The Wood Brothers Tour in Support of New Album, Kingdom In My Mind

Next Wednesday, January 29, the Wood Brothers will be performing at Rams Head Live on their latest tour. They are out on the road in support of their latest album, Kingdom In My Mind, which will be available this Friday, the 24th. We are very excited for the show and […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Staying Warm with Charm City: Battle of the Bands Round 1

Every year, in the lead-up to April, Charm City Bluegrass hosts a battle of the bands featuring local-ish acts, most of which have gotten little to no real exposure.  At the least, the winners have benefited from the Baltimore audience seeing them at Druid Hill Park in Baltimore, but often, […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Clutch Brings “Clutchmas” to the 930 Club on December 29

The end of the year activities in the DMV are all festive and merry, but none make you feel as proud to live here as the annual GWAR and Clutch shows at the 930 Club. This year’s “Clutchmas” was its usual reunion of friends from the area you might not […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Snoop Dogg brings his “I Wanna Thank Me” tour to Orlando!

Snoop Dogg kicked off his 21 city,  “I Wanna Thank Me” tour on December 2nd in San Francisco. His 12th stop was The House of Blues, Orlando on December 21st.  Snoop, the man, the myth, the legend.  Seriously. He needs NO introduction (unless you’ve been living under a rock for […]

Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Finding Community and Epiphanies with Tim Showalter: Strand of Oaks Winter Classic

Night One  On a Thursday night in December, arriving following a long drive from Baltimore, I walked into the Boot and Saddle, its dim wooden interiors brightened by colorful holiday lights. Settling in at the bar, I hear soundcheck ending in the back of the club – “Keys” in all […]

Concert Reviews, Harrisburg University Presents, Live Music

Jason Isbell Delivers an Intimate Performance at The Forum Auditorium

This past Friday was my fourth time seeing Jason Isbell. However, this time was different. Isbell performed an acoustic show with just himself and his lead guitar player, Sadler Vaden. It was amazing seeing one of my favorite artists perform an intimate acoustic set; however, what made this performance so […]

Music News

John Frusciante’s Unexpected Return to the Red Hot Chili Peppers

This past Sunday, the Red Hot Chili Peppers made a completely unexpected announcement – longtime guitarist John Frusciante (who had already left the band twice) was returning to the Chili Peppers. Josh Klinghoffer, main guitarist for the past decade who served as backup guitarist during John’s second tenure, was out. […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Aaron Lewis from Staind Performs at House of Blues Orlando

It was a rainy Friday night in Orlando but that didn’t stop the crowd from packing into the House of Blues, Orlando to catch Aaron Lewis.  You may be familiar with him from a little band called Staind who rocked thousands of faces for many years.  These days he’s mostly […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Rachael & Vilray Had Us Swooning and Swaying at Sixth & I

I’ve been a huge fan of Lake Street Dive since fall of 2011 when I first heard them perform at The Festy outside of Charlottesville, VA. When I learned that lead singer of Lake Street Dive, Rachael Price, had a side project with Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, composer, and guitarist, Vilray, I […]

Baltimore/DC, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Headline their First Show at The Anthem

Baltimore’s favorite, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong lit up D.C. with TWO shows this past weekend! They performed at the 930 Club on Friday the 6th and performed their first headlining show at The Anthem the following night. Pigeons have been out on tour since Halloween and are rounding out their fall tour […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Silversun Pickups with The Griswolds at Rams Head Live

Silversun Pickups are wrapping up their current tour on December 18th. They stopped by Rams Head Live this past weekend with supporting artists from Australia, The Griswolds. Silversun Pickups will be hitting the road again in February and will be back in town on March 8th where they will be […]

Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Interviews, Live Music

The Joy Formidable on Friendship, Forgiveness, and 10 Years of Music

There are some bands that you just “get”.  For whatever reason, you connect with them instantly and know that no matter what, you will support their musical endeavors. This was how it was for me and The Joy Formidable. Recently, I wrote a brief recap of my history of the […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Del McCoury Gives Baltimore a Bluegrass Night in December

“There was Nashville, and then there was Baltimore”, Del McCoury said in Tim Newbys book Bluegrass in Baltimore. On this night, it was Baltimore, or rather Owings Mills. Del McCoury was explaining the prominence of the local bluegrass scene here in the early days of Del’s musical career. On Saturday […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Deadmau5 Shakes the Foundations of The Anthem

If you were anywhere near the Wharf last Friday or Saturday night, it was not an earthquake that you were feeling… it was Deadmau5 shaking The Anthem to its core, quite literally. Joel Zimmerman, better known as Deadmau5, came into town with MSTRKRFT and Jay Robinson on Friday and played […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

DC 101-derland Night 1 at The Anthem

DC 101 is treating fans to a TWO night concert at The Anthem – the DC 101-derland. This past Tuesday, night 1 kicked off featuring Winnetka Bowling League, lovelytheband, and Cage the Elephant. The night was amazing from start to finish! Here’s a look at Night 1 of the DC […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Thanksgiving Eve with Snoh Aalegra at The Fillmore Silver Spring

On Wednesday night, rising star, Snoh Aalegra, brought her highly anticipated show to The Fillmore in Silver Spring, MD. Her music has been described as a mix of R&B, Soul and Pop. Snoh was born in Sweden to Persian parents, and has called Los Angeles her home for the last […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Collective Soul Rocked the Hard Rock Live, Orlando

Collective Soul made a stop in Orlando on Friday, November 22nd. They have been busy this year with the release of their 10th studio album Blood and their “Now’s the Time Tour” marking their 25th Anniversary. Collective Soul truly needs no introduction. I’ve been a fan since I heard “Shine” back […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Joyero and Fruit Bats at Union Craft Brewery

Joyero opened for The Fruit Bats Saturday, November 23rd at The Union Craft Brewing Company in Baltimore. Andy Stack, formerly of Baltimore and part of the duo, Wye Oak, brought his one man show to the Union Craft Brewery. Armed with his guitar and sax, Andy assaulted the evening with […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Matt and Kim Celebrate 10 Year Anniversary of Grand at Rams Head Live

To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Matt and Kim’s critically-acclaimed debut album, Grand, the Brooklyn duo (Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino) set out on tour fall and performed the album in full. They kicked off the U.S. tour on October 17th and wrapped up last night (November 25th) in Brooklyn. Matt and Kim […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Pigface Gives Fans Quite a Show at Baltimore Soundstage

Chicago Industrial music pioneers Pigface have reformed and are currently halfway through a 16 date North American tour, their first in 14 years. On Wednesday night, they stopped at Baltimore Soundstage with support from local Baltimore band Red This Ever and Chicago Industrial music artist I Ya Toyah.  Red This […]

Album Reviews, Baltimore/DC, In the Spotlight, Local Music

Exploring the Mystic Country of Caleb Stine and the Revelations

Life is so often governed by sea changes, those massive scale events that happen almost suddenly, but the world had never stopped changing under the surface.   Mystic Country by Caleb Stine and the Revelations represents a sea change.  As ever, Caleb sings directly – you can glean certain information quickly […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Third Eye Blind Treat Fans to New Songs and Old Favorites at Hard Rock Live Orlando

I’ve often said that music is a time machine. It triggers long-forgotten memories, reminding us of where we were or what we were doing the first time we heard a song, who we loved or hated at the time.  While those memories may not always be good, music also has […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Ever Elegiac Mandolin Orange: Live at Lincoln Theater, 11.15.19

The last time Mandolin Orange came to DC, they unveiled the heavy folksongs of Tides of a Teardrop, newly released less than a week before the show.  Featuring singles like “Golden Embers” and “The Wolves”, the songs practically buzzed into life quietly, beautifully, well-suited to midwinter’s passage.   This time, […]

Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: Cris Jacobs Band and Midnight North at The Hamilton D.C.

You cannot go wrong with Cris Jacobs Band and Midnight North at The Hamilton in D.C. on a Friday night! We are no strangers to either bands and what a perfect combination of musicians to set out on tour together. The show at the Hamilton was only their 3rd show […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Photo Recap: The Last Waltz 40 Tour stops in Reading Pa

I truly believe that Americana music began when The Band made “Music from Big Pink”. Also that the best music concert film made was “The Last Waltz.” The impact they had on music was unquestionably from Bob Dylan to Eric Clapton and to today with Lukas Nelson, Jamey Johnson, and […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Simple Plan and State Champs: Where I Belong Tour 2019

In the early aughts, if you were “cool,” you always tried to go to the Warped Tour, as it traveled across the country, in hopes of seeing your favorite punk, pop-punk, and emo bands.  One of those bands was Simple Plan. I can’t remember where I’d first seen them—whether it […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Angel Olsen Performs at Lincoln Theater

The day closed and concert goers ranging from 18 to 60 made their way to The Lincoln Theatre. None of them could have anticipated what they had in store for them. Everyone made their way to their seats and you could feel the anticipation within the room. We were first […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Victorious Sky Tour Closes Out at House of Blues Orlando

Earlier this year super groups Alter Bridge and Skillet announced they would be co-headlining the Victorious Sky Tour in support of their recently released albums, Victorious (Skillet, August 2nd) and Walk the Sky (Alter Bridge, October 18th).  This was a 20-city tour beginning on September 22nd at the MECU Pavilion […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Against Me! Performs 4 Albums in 2 Nights at Rams Head Live

Against Me! wrapped up a short, 5-city North American tour in Baltimore this past Thursday and Friday evenings, with support from Toronto, Ontario’s Dilly Dally and Omaha, Nebraska’s Cursive. The band, now in its 22nd year of existence chose 5 North American cities and played 4 records (2005’s Searching for […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Wilco, We’re The Ones Who Love You

I had only heard Jeff Tweedy play two different acoustic sets of Wilco classics before finally getting to hear the whole band in action last week. During the sold-out show at The Anthem, Jeff Tweedy seemed to keep his audience interaction at a minimum, hiding his curls beneath his low, […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Mudhoney Brings their Morning in America Tour to Baltimore Soundstage

Friday night was a garage rock and punk extravaganza at Baltimore Soundstage, with a solid line-up of support acts for the return of Seattle’s Mudhoney. Baltimore’s own Murder opened the show, with a loud and sludgy Detroit-esque punk sound that had people dancing right away.  Murder was followed by California’s […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Black Label Society Gets Wylde at the House of Blues-Orlando

After a weekend anniversary trip to the Bahamas with my wife, I was dreading reality as we disembarked in the rain this past Monday morning.  As we moved through the customs line, a list of to do’s was rolling through my mind, making the return to reality even more unwanted.  […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Built to Spill Performs Keep it Like a Secret at 930 Club

Built to Spill’s second major label release Keep it Like a Secret turned 20 years old in February. ‪Doug Martsch is currently touring the U.S. playing the record in its entirety, but with a twist. ‪While the entire record is being performed, the songs are played in a different order […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Rainbow Kitten Surprise and Illiterate Light Pack the House of Blues Orlando

So, I have been wanting to catch Rainbow Kitten Surprise for awhile now. RKS have been making music since 2013 but only recently have the been stepping into the spotlight. Back in January, they sold out two nights at the 930 Club which is no easy task (and both shows […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Rancid Reminds Us that Summer is Not Quite Over

Rancid returned to Baltimore last Saturday for one of the final shows of the season at MECU Pavilion. This leg of the summer tour finds the Bay Area’s Rancid, paired with two legendary Southern California punk bands and the mischievous ska-punkers, The Aquabats. After opening sets on the “Hellcat Acoustic […]

In the Spotlight, Interviews, Live Music, Photo Recap

Dirty Honey is “Rolling 7s” All the Way to the Top of the Charts!

When Dirty Honey came into Baltimore, they were flying high. Their song, “When I’m Gone”, has hit #1 on the Media Base Active Rock chart and they’re getting ready to drop their video for their rocking single,”Rolling 7s”. I had an opportunity to sit down with the band before they […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Andrew Bird Leaves The Anthem Emotional With His Heart-Felt Vocals

I’ve been an Andrew Bird fan since about 2008, and this was my first-ever Andrew Bird concert. It did not disappoint. The crowd was seated at The Anthem as they took in the singer-songwriter’s philosophical tunes, heart-felt vocals, emotional violin, and signature whistling solos. Supported by cellist, Alan Hampton, drummer, […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Bloc Party’s Silent Alarm Tour was on Fire at The Anthem

In March, Bloc Party announced that they would be doing a short US tour playing their debut album, Silent Alarm, in its entirety. The first official show of the tour was set to take place in Washington, DC at The Anthem. The band also added a stop at Riot Fest […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Reckless Kelly Brings Red Dirt Music to York, PA

If you haven’t heard of red dirt music, your missing out! Reckless Kelly is the definition of this music. It is country that’s not played around here very often but damn well should be. It is Americana before that was a term. The Braun Brothers came into The Appell Center […]

Album Reviews, Concert Reviews, In the Spotlight, Live Music

Why you should get to know Vampire Weekend’s Father of the Bride

I have been a fan of Vampire Weekend from the very beginning.  I instantly fell in love with the cheerful melodies, playful keyboards, and Ezra’s perfect falsetto.  Every time Vampire weekend came to D.C., I made sure to go to their shows.  In fact, Vampire weekend was my daughter’s first concert when she was 10 years […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Andrew McMahon In the Wilderness Lights up the Night

Andrew McMahon In the Wilderness wasn’t on tour with O.A.R. but was asked to join in on the fun this past Saturday at Merriweather when O.A.R. rounded out their summer tour. I’ve managed to miss Andrew McMahon the last few times he’s been in D.C., so I was very excited […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

O.A.R. are Welcomed Home at Merriweather after Summer Tour

Merriweather Post Pavilion came alive with friends, family, and fans of O.A.R., welcoming the band home after their summer tour with American Authors on Saturday, September 7th. O.A.R. have been on tour in support of their latest album, The Mighty O.A.R. which was released in March of this year. This […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Interpol Delivers a Beautiful Performance at Merriweather Post Pavilion

I will never pass up an opportunity to see Interpol live. I have been listening to this band since they released their second album, released in 2002, Antics. It was that year that The Cure set out on their Curiosa Tour and included Interpol on the lineup. I recall sitting […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Live Music, Photo Recap

Christone “Kingfish” Ingram: Blues Guitar and Classic Soul

When I first saw Christone “Kingfish” Ingram listed as the opener for Vampire Weekend at Merriweather on August 29th, I have to admit that I was unaware of who this musician was. A friend told me that he was a “must see” and “the next big thing”. Therefore, I made […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

WTMD First Thursday: Ending with a Bang

As previously covered and discussed throughout the past months, Baltimore’s best radio station – WTMD – brings six acts to a mini-festival in Canton on the first Thursday of every month during the summer season (May to September).  This month featured a diverse run of acts, including the legendary funk/soul […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

UB40, Shaggy, and Steel Pulse Bring the Reggae Vibes to MECU Pavilion

UB40, along with Shaggy and Steel Pulse, brought the reggae vibes to MECU Pavilion in Baltimore on Wednesday, September 4th. It was a hot and humid evening, which added to this summer-like atmosphere.  Steel Pulse kicked off the evening, celebrating 40 years of making music in America. This was a […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Sting: A True Timeless Classic

Sting performed at Wolf Trap on August 28th, rounding out a very busy month of shows! Sting has performed a few times in the area and has proved that he is a truly classic musician and no one ever tires of his songs. His set-list consisted of a fair mix […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight

Le Butcherettes Perform a Short but Powerful Set at MECU Pavilion

The fearless musical force, lead by founding member and singer/guitarist/keyboardist Teri Gender Bender, Le Butcherettes played as the opening act on a massive summer tour with Devil Makes Three, Flogging Molly, and Social Distortion.  Le Butcherettes is a band that I never miss an opportunity to catch performing live. I’ve been […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Cage the Elephant Didn’t Let a Storm Delay Ruin Their Set

Summer storms are oftentimes unavoidable and this past Thursday evening, at Merriweather Post Pavilion, a rather large storm blew right over the venue. Only seven songs into their set, Cage the Elephant had to leave the stage due to an approaching storm. The very crowded lawn was vacated and attendees […]

Live Music, Photo Recap

Flogging Molly and Social Distortion at MECU Pavilion

It was a rather hot evening at MECU Pavilion on Wednesday, August 21st. However, Social Distortion and Flogging Molly delivered back-to-back sets that kept the audience dancing until the last song. The two bands have brought The Devil Makes Three and Le Butcherettes along with them on tour making for […]

Photo by Matt Ruppert
In the Spotlight, Interviews, Live Music, Local Music, Photo Recap

Hot August Music Festival – Thank You for the Memories

Brad Selko had no idea what he was in for when a friend asked him to host a small concert at his farm back in 1993. “It was just going to be a few friends but people just kept showing up”, Brad recalls. Now, 27 years later, Brad, along with […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Melting at Oregon Ridge: Hot August Music Festival

Hot August Music Festival celebrated its Forever 27 this year, inviting a wide-ranging cast of artists, honoring the festival’s blues history, its emphasis on local musicians, and offering the multigenerational crowd a taste of music spanning genres and decades.  From the rising stars of Billy Strings and Vanessa Collier to […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Cure Return to Scotland After 27 Years

“You came all the way from the United States to see this show?”, asked a surprised fan who was waiting in line with me several hours before the gates opened.  Yes, I came all the way to Scotland to see The Cure.  This is not the first time I’ve traveled […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Interrupters Fire Up Merriweather and Leave the Audience Wanting More

Los Angeles ska-punk band The Interrupters opened up Saturday’s Merriweather Post Pavilion date, stop number 14 of a 29 date summer package tour which includes co-headliners 311 and Dirty Heads, as well as two more opening acts, Bikini Trill and Dreamers. The Interrupters took the stage while a portion of […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

311 Gives Us the Sounds of Summer at Merriweather Post Pavilion

311 and Dirty Heads teamed up this summer for a co-headlining tour with support from Bikini Trill, Dreamers, and The Interrupters, the makings for a great night of summer music! Merriweather Post Pavilion was packed with fans! For 29 years, 311 has been making music together and this summer they […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Spending a Friday Evening with Better Than Ezra

This may have been the first time that I had seen Better Than Ezra perform live. I know that in 1995, their album Deluxe was on constant rotation for me. While their hit single from this album, “Good”, hit the charts – I fell in love with some of the […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight

The Flaming Lips: Insane, Surreal, and Amazing

After about 35 years since being birthed, psychedelic love-bombers, The Flaming Lips, are still out there blowing minds for a living. I’ve adored this band for many years and have had the pleasure of seeing them perform live over 20 times in 8 states. In addition, I’ve been able to […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Brandi Carlile and Lucius Light Up The Stage At Merriweather Post Pavilion

The Grammy-slaying rockstar, Brandi Carlile, dazzled Marriweather Post-Pavilion with her sparkly jacket and incredible energy on Friday night. She brought both the seat ticket holders and the lawn ticket dwellers to their feet, moving everyone to dance. Brandi was humbled by how big of a crowd gathered to hear her […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

The Wildest Joy: DelFest 2019

To call it “difficult” to summarize DelFest understates the reality.  As an event, it offers more than music – which, frankly, is a lot in and of itself – instead providing a profound sense of community, of togetherness, and a wild joy.  If anything, the truest theme and the greatest […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Collective Soul and Gin Blossoms Team Up for a Great Show at MECU Pavilion

It has been 25 years since Collective Soul released their debut album Hints, Allegations and Things Left Unsaid. However, they came to the MECU Pavilion with the energy of a band that is still in love with rock and roll.  They delivered a high energy performance that made me remember all […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Passion Pit Returns to D.C. and Delivers a Stand-Out Performance at The Anthem

The first time that I saw Passion Pit was at the 9:30 Club on May 6, 2015 for the “Kindred” tour. My friend had invited me to attend, and I had decided to go out of pure curiosity. At that time, “Take a Walk” was on constant radio rotation…it was […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Nitzer Ebb “Come Alive” at Baltimore Soundstage

80’s/90’s EBM mainstays Nitzer Ebb are currently in the middle of the first leg of a North American tour which runs through May 26th. The second leg starts on September 19th in Austin, Texas. The North American tour will wrap up on October 5th at the Regent Theater in Los […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Bring Me The Horizon Rises Up in Baltimore at the MECU Pavilion

UK’s Bring Me The Horizon performed last Saturday, May 11th, at MECU Pavilion in Baltimore. Bring Me The Horizon have made some musical transitions, as well as, some personal one; however, one thing is for sure – their fans love them. Bring Me The Horizon are currently on tour in […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Black Label Society Rocks Rams Head Live

Guitarist Zakk Wylde, known for his time performing as lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, is on tour with his band, Black Label Society, to celebrate the band’s 20-year anniversary. The tour, 20 Years of Sonic Brewtality, kicked off in April and made it’s way to Rams Head Live this past Monday! Wylde took […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Hippo Campus Stops by Rams Head Live on May 7th

Hippo Campus formed in 2013 by high school friends who just wanted to have fun making music. However, over the last 5 years, the band has grown into something more purposeful. The band is currently on tour in support of their second album, Bambi which was released last fall. Bambi […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

IDLES Proves that it’s More than Just a Band

Believe the hype.  That’s what I’ve been saying to friends after witnessing the Bristol, UK band, IDLES, at the Metro Gallery in Baltimore Tuesday night where they performed to a sold out crowd.  The band – which includes singer Joe Talbot; Adam Devonshire on bass; Mark Bowen (“Bobo”) on guitar/vocals […]

Highlights, In the Spotlight, Interviews, Music News, Show Previews

Talking to Del: Grammys, Dodging Knives and Building a Festival

Del McCoury has had a big year already.  In February, he celebrated his birthday with the Grand Del Opry, which he characterized as “a great honor”, and his sons’ band The Travelin’ McCourys won a Grammy for their first album. “You know, last year we had a release party there […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Jorja and Kali Team Up for an Amazing Performance at The Anthem

On April 28th, The Kali and Jorja Tour kicked off at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. with amazing and energetic performances by both artists! Jorja Smith took the stage first and performed songs from her critically acclaimed first album, Lost & Found. The crowd was pumped as they sang along […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Buying Happiness with American Aquarium

BJ Barham writes and acts from a place of honesty, sincerity. Every little thing he does suffused by the principles he’s nurtured, developed throughout his adulthood.  Hard-earned, celebrating five years of sobriety, two years of parenthood, and approaching fifteen years in the music industry.  A cliche of sorts, sure, but […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Foals Make it All About the Fans – Night 2 at 930 Club DC

Tuesday night’s show in DC sold out, so Foals added a second show on Thursday night. Foals performed to a full house at the 930 Club Thursday evening along with two openers. I arrived early to enjoy a night of music! Omni kicked off the night with a short but […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

Coloring with Cris Jacobs at Union Craft Brewing, 4.12.2019

We walked into Union Collective, its wide open spaces, expansive rafters, and industrial chic style inviting in the way few other places cannot hope to match. Charming, still, but not so dingy as the clubs we music fans so often inhabit; it does not hide in the darkness or paint […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Interviews

All Access Pass Podcast Features These Subtle Sounds

David Correa of Photo Pit Media, also hosts a podcast that features local musicians, photographers, and show promoters. He is a musician and photographer in the Baltimore area with great deal of talent of his own. Last week, Shantel Mitchell Breen stopped by his studio where they discussed concert photography […]

Concert Reviews, Live Music

Erykah Badu Moves the Capital of Amerykah

Ms. Erykah Badu arrived fashionably late to her Saturday night concert at the Anthem, and the wait was well worth it. The fog machines teased the giddy crowed as everyone watched the hazy stage in anticipation. Fans gripped their phones, ready to capture Erykah Badu’s first move. Puffs of smoke […]

Baltimore/DC, Concert Reviews, Live Music, Local Music

The Outcalls Captivate the Audience at Metro Gallery

I went to the Metro Gallery in Baltimore this past Saturday night for Raindeer’s record release party.  The band wasn’t scheduled to take the stage until 10:30pm. However, I always go to shows early because I have learned that opening performers can truly be amazing. Every band on the schedule […]

Featured Artist, In the Spotlight, Show Calendars

Connection in the Modern Age: Aaron Lee Tasjan, Karma for Cheap, and Club 603

I find myself turning into the windswept beauty of an almost-ancient Roland Park neighborhood, its gnarled oaks, sloping hills, and beautiful old homes a kind of embrace.  The oldest planned suburban neighborhood in the United States – a streetcar suburb – designed to tame the lush wilds around Lake Roland, an […]