CONCERT REPORT: Ben Nichols (Lucero) and Jared Hart at Crossroads

Ben Nichols at Crossroads, Feb 2018

Jared Hart at Crossroads, Feb 2018

Crossroads is a small venue that has become more and more popular with the Jersey scene lately, partly because of (or mostly because of) the dynamo that is Andy Diamond. Fans of The Gaslight Anthem will know his name from their 2010 song "The Diamond Church Street Choir", but since then, his name has become associated with many fantastic concerts in the area. After the sad departure of Asbury Lanes, fans of artists like Brian Fallon, Dave Hause, The Menzingers, The Scandals and upcoming headliner The Lawrence Arms, have found a new home at Crossroads because of Diamond's efforts.

Recently, Diamond brought Ben Nichols of Lucero out to play a solo show (with Crossroads staple Jared Hart opening up). Nichols doesn't play by himself out on the East coast as much as he does with his band Lucero, so this appearance was a special treat and naturally sold out pretty quickly. Lucero diehards took up the front row, shouting along with every lyric as they do at a full band show, as well as Hart fans who were there mainly to see him, but stuck around to see the legendary Nichols. The audience was mostly male, as one man pointed out in the back hall in line for the bathroom that "There's never a line for the ladies room at a Lucero show", to which his friend replied, "Yeah. They're only here to drive us all home afterwards!"

Without a band, Nichols still brings a lot of energy though he's just a man and his guitar (with some liquid courage at his side). Being solo allows him more time to stop and chat to the crowd between songs (sometimes during a song!) about anything ranging from lyrical motivation to being a new Dad to a precocious little girl. Nichols actually brought the two worlds of fatherhood and music together by playing a hilariously charming song written about his daughter Isabelle's shenanigans. It's not likely that it will end up on a record, but should he change his mind, it would probably be a big hit with their fans like it was with the crowd that night. You can check out video of that song here.

This was a show I'm glad I did not miss. It was a more challenging night than usual on the Garden State on that stormy night, but worth the hydroplane-braving and dodging crazy drivers to be there. It was nice and cozy in Crossroads, with heartwarming music from both Hart and Nichols.

To check out my photos from the show, click here.

CONCERT REPORT: Rise Against hometown gig (PHOTOS)

Zach Blair of Rise Against at the Aragon Ballroom, November 2017

To continue my wrap-up on WKQX's holiday show, The Night We Stole Christmas...

Rise Against hails from Chicago, so this gig was surely a highlight for them as well as me. I love seeing a band play their hometown because there's always a special vibe in the air. Being hugely successful, having toured all over the world, I would imagine there is nothing like coming back to your city and be reminded of how far you've come. Plus, instead of jumping back on a tour bus to hit the road to play to a room full of strangers, you can simply hop in your car and go home! Which is what I witnessed firsthand after the show, when bandmembers left the building. But not before stopping to talk to their loyal fans who waited outside in the freezing cold, knowing at least a few of them by their names upon first sight.

I've seen Rise Against quite a few times since my first show of theirs in 2007 opening for the now, sadly, defunct My Chemical Romance. Their ferocity and energy had not slowed down at all 10 years later. If anything, crowd response seems to have gotten even more intense as songs that were new back then are now classic favorites like "Prayer of the Refugee", "The Dirt Whispered" and "The Good Left Undone." Newer hits like "Satellite" and "Help Is On The Way" also made the cut as well as songs off their latest record, Wolves, "The Violence" and "House On Fire."

One thing about Rise Against is they will never shy away from expressing their feelings about what's going on in the world. Tim McIlrath took to the mic to say that, to him, it's "common sense" to say "F**k homophobia" and xenophobia, showing support for human diversity instead of demonizing it out of fear. He also openly declared that it's also "Common sense to say f**k Trump", which was met with deafening cheers right before going into "Savior." Bands like Rise Against are needed the most in times where people seem to be trying more than ever to censor anyone who doesn't agree with the current administration.

To check out my photos of the show, click here.

CONCERT REPORT: Papa Roach in Chicago (PHOTOS)

Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach, Aragon Ballroom 2017

I finally had a dream come true when I not only got to finally spend some time in the great city of Chicago, but also got to see a fantasy bill I never thought I'd witness: Papa Roach co-headlining with Rise Against. Not only that, it was a hometown gig for Rise Against at a venue I've always wanted to see in person, the Aragon Ballroom.

Aragon Ballroom is unlike any other music hall I've ever been to. Instead of the standard setup of a stage facing an open floor and multiple rows of a balcony, you feel like you're looking out onto some sort of plaza under a night sky in a Van Gogh painting. Words can't do it justice, so here's a photo found in a Google Image search:

As usual, Papa Roach rocked the whole room. At first, I was a little bit nervous because their style of music is so different than Rise Against's furious punk tunes that often get political. Papa Roach is a heavy, futuristic, pop-infused metal (but not Pop Metal mind you). I hoped the Rise Against fans would be receptive to them. Since RA was closing the show, that meant the odds are that the population in attendance was most likely made up of mostly their fans. But there was no need to be worried. There were lots of Roach shirts in the crowd and they knew the words to more than just the early TRL hits, which lately includes "Help", off their current release, Crooked Teeth.  Crowd response was especially great for another Crooked Teeth song, "Born For Greatness." With it's aggressive bouncy intro, it's hard not to be hooked right away into the anthemic, inspiring tune.

Due to the crazy schedule that ensued right after this early December show, I'm a little bit backed up editing the rest of my photos from that night. But they will be posted soon! In the meantime, here are a few from Papa Roach's set that night:

NYC EVENT: Halloween 2017 in New York City - Village Parade (PHOTOS)

Halloween 2017 was a scary day in New York City. But they (myself included, so maybe a "we") persevered, pushing through the fear to continue living their lives and embracing all the freedoms we enjoy in this country.

I was getting my costume in order when news broke about the attack on the West Side Highway. At the time I was still in the house, it seemed a case of escalated road rage but may be linked to terrorism. No one was saying anything about the parade that was to start in 3 hours, so I ended up calling NYPD myself to find out if it was still on or there were any delays. Community Affairs verified it was still happening. Inspired by WWII Londoners, and everyone else who has managed to find love and light through fear and daily life threats, I drove down to the city, ready to celebrate life with fellow creative humans.

Aside from a larger presence than usual of NYPD and armed security looming in every shadow and on every corner, you would never know anything had happened only a few short blocks away earlier in the afternoon. It's sad and joyful all at the same time that life goes on when you were not directly impacted like the families and loved ones of those we lost that afternoon. I chose to continue with my plans with the hope it would take some satisfaction away from the man who committed the act, as well as to go on in memory of the people who paid the unexpected price of enjoying a pretty October afternoon in the greatest city on Earth. I love NYC, even if I'm cursing at all of the drivers and pedestrians around me as I drive in, out and around that wonderful town! And, I love Halloween. So, without further ado, here are my photos of the NYC Village Halloween Parade. I've picked out my favorites and posted them below, but you can view the entire album here.

 

CONCERT REPORT: In This Moment: Providence (PHOTOS)

Maria Brink of In This Moment, Providence, RI, October 2017

I got another opportunity to shoot the amazing band In This Moment in Rhode Island a few Fridays ago when their Half God Half Devil Tour came to one of my favorite venues, Lupo's. They are super theatrical and always a fun challenge. Lots of smoke and wild lighting keeps me on my toes, as do lead singer Maria Brink and her bandmates (guitarists Chris Howarth, Randy Weitzel, bassist Travis Johnson and drummer Kent Dimmel). Of course, her Blood Girls were in tow, flanking Maria like loyal subjects in her Rock and Roll Queendom.

In This Moment's metal is heavy but melodic, touching on the darker subjects in life like abuse and serious relationship dysfunction. But embracing demons, and almost dressing like one at times, has not made Brink an intimidating figure so much as a heroine for young people everywhere. Setting an example by showing the world how she has risen above her demons to become a powerful female in control of herself and the stage. Bunches of young girls look up to her from the front row, wearing costumes paying tribute to Maria and her musical cohorts ranging from ghoulish makeup to masks emblazoned with black and white crucifixes. To outsiders, it looks like a costume party. To those inside, it's a community where creative expression is welcome and celebrated.

To check out my photos from the show, click here!

New photos posted: Lucero and Bouncing Souls, Dave Hause

Just letting you all know that I posted my photos from the Stoked For The Summer show back in August that took place at the legendary Stone Pony. I can't believe that show was already over a month ago. Time is flying, and that makes me anxious! There's probably a lot more serious things to be anxious over these days. *sigh*

Dave Hause also made his way out here again, opening for Gogol Bordello at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. It's a wonderful venue, with lots of sightlines. Parking in the area isn't too much of a hassle, though I resent the fact they charge you the day rate on the street even though you're only there a few hours. But, that's not the venue's fault- just a friendly warning to be prepared if you're not commuting via train from the city. That is also super convenient, as the Capitol is basically right across the street from the station.

Anyway, here are the links to my most recent photos:

Bouncing Souls / Stoked For Summer
Lucero / Stoked For Summer
Dave Hause & The Mermaid / Capitol Theatre

...And we're back!

Well, it's been awhile since my last post! So here's some highlights of what's been going on since then:

Dave Hause put out an album that's become one of those Feel Good Hits of the Summer, Bury Me in Philly. I'm always relieved when an artist I'm pretty passionate about puts out new music I like. It's a terrible feeling when they don't. Sometimes you can make it through a downturn, sometimes you can't. Not the case with Hause, thankfully! Check out my photos from his February show at Crossroads in New Jersey here.

In This Moment released Ritual this Summer and it's also wonderful. I can't believe I didn't catch on to this band so much sooner. But, better late than never! Maria Brink is a Rock goddess, and I love the theatrical quality to their look and live show. Even if they came out in jeans and t-shirts, it wouldn't take away from their music. So far "Black Wedding", featuring Metal God Rob Halford, is my favorite off the record. I can't get enough of it. My shots from their show at Asbury Park's Convention Hall are here. I hadn't been there since the Gaslight Anthem brought Bruce Springsteen out on stage with them in December 2011 (photos here). It was great to go back to this great venue. Especially now that I've been clued in since then about its history of having hosted the Doors and The Clash in the past.

Yet another fantastic album was released since January- Papa Roach's Crooked Teeth. I always think they can't possibly top themselves, but they have. They've given Anthony Esperance (bassist Tobin's Brother) more responsibility creatively and with their live show, adding him as a backup singer and musician. Again, it's sometimes a weird transition when you've been a fan of a band for so long and they add in a new element. But Anthony fits right in. I caught their Toronto set in April as well as their last minute stop in NYC in May to play an I Heart Radio studio gig and treat fans to a listening party at Bowery Electric the week of the album's release. They can't come back soon enough.

I also checked out Australian band Jakubi at Brooklyn Bowl. They're a mix of Hip Hop, Funk and Rock out of Melbourne. Right after their set, Questlove (of the Roots) DJ'd, playing only Jackson Family music since that was the week of the anniversary of MJ's death. It was so much fun, and he went deep! Janet tunes only known if you owned the records as well as remixes you probably only knew if you had poked around Napster back in the day. Photos of Jakubi from that night here. Questlove's security was a bit strict about getting up close and I didn't want to disrupt him at work!

And of course I kept up with some of my all time favorites from my formative years, L.A. Guns, Faster Pussycat, and Sebastian Bach. Some bands you just never outgrow!

Anyway, more to come soon as I get my photos from the past 8 months together. By the way, please don't take the lack of posts as lack of interest in communicating with everyone. Photo editing, going to the shows (especially those with huge commutes), and life events in general kept me from getting back here.

BOOK REVIEW: Sebastian Bach, "18 and Life On Skid Row"

I just finished Sebastian Bach's first book, 18 and Life On Skid Row. I say "first" because I hope more will be written in the future.

RIP Dave Franklin of Vision

I'm seeing reports that Dave Franklin has passed on. I didn't know him personally, but I saw him at shows hanging out and when he and Vision opened for The Gaslight Anthem at the Wellmont, which was one of my favorite concerts of all time. If I remember right, he also came out to sing "Say I Won't (Recognize)" with the band. So, I thank him for contributing to my great times. My condolences to those that knew him. 😔 #ripdavefranklin #ripdavevision (photo taken 12/11/09 at the Wellmont)

Happy New Year!

It's been a quiet couple of months, but I promise that will change! Lack of concerts along with getting caught up in Holiday craziness has contributed to that. So here's a quick catch-up!

Shortly after Halloween, I checked out Faster Pussycat's gig at Saint Vitus. As usual, they put on a great show. I grew up with a different lineup, but honestly, singer Taime Downe has done a good job of putting together a fun crew every time I've seen them in the past decade. They opened with "Where There's A Whip There's A Way", which is my favorite FP tune, so I was psyched about that! I was not psyched that someone there passed on their head cold to me though! I ended up missing The Falcon's Northeast shows because of that. 2016 has not been kind to me in that I counted 6 shows I missed due to unexpected reasons (traffic and illness basically), as opposed pretty much never having missed a show due to either. Yeesh.

I checked out Night 1 and Night 2 of Brian Fallon's annual holiday shows at Crossroads in Garwood, NJ just before Christmas. Tim Barry opened on Night 1 with Brian McGee opening on Night 2. It was great to see both openers, as I haven't seen them in awhile! Tim has such a unique personality and live show. He's a punk out of Richmond, VA, previously known as the frontman for Avail, and is really one of the most down-to-Earth people you'll ever come across. You can check out his website here. Brian is well known for his work with Plow United as well as being part of Brian Fallon's side project Molly and The Zombies. He made the trip up just for this show and it was much appreciated. Hopefully we'll see more of him sooner rather than later. Brian McGee's site can be found here. McGee is donating proceeds from two of his songs to the Save The Children Foundation. Find out more about that here.

Brian Fallon's set was a bit of a different experience than usual. He came out solo, which I personally haven't seen happen since 2010. The setlist each night was mostly made up of tunes off of Painkillers, with a couple of Gaslight surprises thrown in. "Navesink Banks", "National Anthem", "Stray Paper" and "Boxer" made the cut. "Nobody Wins", "Mojo Hand", "A Wonderful Life", "Smoke", "Steve McQueen" and "Honey Magnolia" also made appearances. The famous Andy Diamond played a big part of Night 1's set, as the man himself was sitting at stageside during Brian's set. Brian often turned to him for side conversation relating to whatever Brian was discussing, which was entertaining. Brian would also indulge audience members' questions or comments, sometimes with a snappy response, which was the case on Night 2, when a man announced to the room that his wife was obsessed with Brian. Brian replied with "Maybe you should treat her better!" D'oh!

Otherwise, I went to the great Sebastian Bach's Brooklyn appearance on his book tour promoting "18 and Life on Skid Row." He shared some funny stories and held a fan Q&A in the performance area of Saint Vitus where the signing was held. Afterwards, he signed everyone's books and posed for photos. Of course his lovely new Bride, Suzanne, was there right by his side.

I immediately started reading the book the moment it was in my hands at the signing. I am getting closer to the end, but let me say that early on into the book, even though I'm not completely done reading it, it's definitely one of my favorites. There are a lot of stories regarding incidents I've always wanted to know more about, along with stories that never made it to Metal Edge, RIP, Circus, etc. during his time with Skid Row. It's definitely a case of "You think you know, but you have no idea." I won't spoil anything, but I do want to say that even as a member of the Stern Nation, where I hear pretty much every debaucherous thing humans are capable of, there were still moments in Sebastian's life that made me blush!

Anyway, I hope everyone has had a great holiday season!

2016 Village Halloween Parade (PHOTOS)

After having a great time shooting the 2015 Village Halloween Parade, I decided I would definitely return. The past year's awful headlines made me a little nervous to head into the city for a mass gathering of any kind, but like many people, I've decided that I can't live my life in fear. I will confess that I did feel a lot better about the fact NYPD officers were everywhere I looked. Shoutout to New York's Finest for looking out for all of us and for being super cool to everyone from yours truly to drunkies wanting selfies with a Man in Blue.

The most popular costumes seemed to be Harley Quinn from this year's film Suicide Squad, humorous political costumes either attacking or supporting the Democratic and Republican candidates, ghoulish getups, and tributes to the recently departed David Bowie and Prince.

CONCERT REPORT: Dave Hause / Against Me! / Bad Religion (PHOTOS)

Dave Hause, Against Me! and Bad Religion at Irving Plaza

Last week, the Vox Populi Tour kicked off its tour in the Northeast. I had the pleasure of catching two of those shows, one at the Paramount in Long Island, the other on the second night of their 2-night stand at Irving Plaza. Both shows were fantastic nights of Punk Rock.

Gary Clark Jr. at the Capitol Theatre

Gary Clark Jr. at the Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY

While Gary Clark Jr.'s sound is that of an experienced musician who could hang with the best of the Blues legends, it's hard to believe the man is only 32. This mature sound is the result of spending his formative years dividing his time between the Texas nightclub scene and his neighborhood church, all the while devouring Soul, Funk, Pop and Hip-Hop while he learned his craft. In other words, Tupac Shakur and Parliament-Funkadelic informed his sound as much as BB King, Jimi Hendrix and Miles Davis. Clark transformed the Capitol Theatre into a giant Blues club when he hit the legendary Port Chester venue on September 6th.

In This Moment, KORN and Rob Zombie in Hartford, CT

Last night, The Return of the Dreads Tour, which features In This Moment, Korn and Rob Zombie, made its way to the Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, CT. From beginning to end, the show gave the town a Rock-filled spectacle complete with flashing lights, crazy stage setups, loud Rock, and yes, dreads.

POSTSCRIPT: Guns N' Roses at MetLife Stadium

When Guns N' Roses announced that Duff and Slash would be joining Axl for a Summer tour, I was thrilled. However, I was not thrilled with the ticket prices. $285 for the best seats/general admission pit, plus nearly $20 in fees and $30 for parking (unless you took the train in) was out of my budget. But, as the great Eddie Trunk has said, fans vote with their wallets and they always have the choice not to go. After months of going back and forth, I ended up deciding on a price I was ok paying. Though the downside would be sitting a city block away from the stage, I knew it would be a great show regardless.

Guns N' Roses Night 2 at MetLife Stadium

Last night, the night owls of the Tri-State area made their way out to East Rutherford, NJ's to catch rock legends Guns N' Roses play past midnight on Night 2 of their run at MetLife Stadium. I was there Sunday night with a bird's eye view of the stage.

The Struts at The Stone Pony

This past Thursday night, Asbury Park received its second visit from UK band The Struts. Though the band is fairly new to Americans, they have managed to win many fans already. Judging by the amount of people who responded when singer Luke Spiller asked who in the crowd had seen them play before, they clearly had made quite a good impression at their Fall show at the Wonder Bar down the street. Along with the seaside town's validation, they've already won the approval of musical giants like Mötley Crüe and the Rolling Stones, who selected the band to open shows for them last year. Going by Thursday night's Stone Pony show, it's easy to see why The Struts are receiving so much attention and praise.

Sixx A.M. plays intimate Philly show

Mötley Crüe may have said farewell to the world on New Year's Eve, but bassist Nikki Sixx is far from done with his musical career. Even after living many lives during his time with the Crüe, the creative juices and desire to bring music to the people are still burning bright inside Sixx. The success of Sixx A.M. shows that his fans aren't done with him either.