311 – IRATION – IYA TERRA LIVE IN BRIDGEPORT
This past Tuesday (August 24th), I had the pleasure of seeing my first show at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater.. The “Amp” was hosting the 311, Live From The Ride tour, with special guests Iration and Iya Terra. Several of AMP’s correspondents have already submitted reviews from the venue. Scott Steinberg wrote about the “Amp”s opening night with REO Speedwagon and then again reporting on Harry Connick Jr. Joe Perusse did a piece on the Kings of Leon. I agree with them that the site is plainly superb. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house and the airy atmosphere is refreshing for such a large structure. The “Amp” is definitely a destination attraction for the City of Bridgeport.
First up was Iya Terra. The five piece group based out of L.A. play a smooth and righteous blend of reggae and dub. Iya Terra‘s 30 minute set was a totally inspiring. Their music conveys images of love and respect. Lead singer Nathan Feinstein was captivating. His elevated stage presence easily captured the audience. Tanner Arebalo on rhythm guitar and Luis Tovar on keyboards let the organic vibes flow throughout the set. Drummer Tanner Arebalo and bassist Nick Loporchio were a dynamic grounding force.
Iya Terra performed many of the songs off their new full length entitled Ease & Grace. The new record is a true testament to the strong songwriting of the band. “Ease & Grace”, “We All Walk Our Own Roads”, and “Take Control” were all well received. Iya Terra were a fantastic opener and I can’t wait for their return to the area.
Up next was the reggae/pop ensemble, Iration. The group was founded in Santa Barbara but most of the members originally hail from Hawaii. Iration came out strong. Their sublime blend of reggae, pop and alternative resonated well with the attendees Micah Pueschel’s (Lead Vocals/Guitar) voice had a lush texture that fit well with the addictive nature of their sound. He was constantly thanking the audience and the city of Bridgeport for their warm reception. In return, the crowd clapped and clearly expressed their support.
All through Iration‘s performance, the band exhibited their musical prowess. On guitar, Micah Brown displayed a tenacious muscular depth. His on-stage persona was infectious. He enjoyed stimulating the house. In addition, Joseph Dickens on drums was memorable holding down Iration‘s fluid rhythms. The entire group played with a silky fervor that had the audience swaying with emotional contentment. Their set enveloped the “Amp” with a calming electricity. Iration played a good smattering of their hits including “Summer Nights”. “Time Bomb” and “Already Gold”. Every song was met with their fans profound approval. Iration‘s set was highly impressive.
Headliners 311 followed. 311 perform a hybrid sound of alternative, rap, reggae and funk. They also throw in a slab of metal. Their music is hypnotic and edgy. From the opening song, “Hive”, you knew who ruled the night. The entire house were on their feet bouncing to 311‘s monstrous beat. 311 is comprised of Nick Hexum (Lead vocals/Guitars/Keyboards), Doug “SA” Martinez (Lead Vocals/Turntables), Aaron “P-Nut” Wills (Bass), Chad Sexton (Drums) and Tim Mahoney (Lead Guitar).
On stage, the tandem of Hexum and Martinez was intensely insane. They were like whirling dervishes, covering the entire area with dramatic animation. Always on the move, SA was propulsive, constantly enticing the audience to interact. Hexum was sensationally theatrical. He absolutely knew how to motivate the throng. Fists were waving and heads bobbing. Wills’ bass imparted an aggressive bass line while Mahoney’s guitar blazed with sonic thunder. Sexton played like a rampaging beast especially on his mid-set drum solo which turned into an amazing group percussion romp.
311 left no stone unturned. This show featured all their numerous hits. “All Mixed Up”, “Amber”, “Don’t Stay Home” and “Down” all received deafening roars. Everyone practically sang along to every song. This was positively 311‘s evening. Everyone was exuberantly addicted to the cascading music. Hexum and company encored the night with “Omaha Stylee” which left the “Amp” thoroughly spent. .What a glorious night of good times and incredible music.
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To learn more about 311, check out their website
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Stream music: Spotify / Purchase
To learn more about IRATION, check out their website
Follow on Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube
Stream music: Spotify / Apple Music
To learn more about IYA TERRA, check out their website
Follow on Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube
Stream music: Spotify / Apple Music
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1 thought on “311 – IRATION – IYA TERRA LIVE IN BRIDGEPORT”
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Three stellar bands. I especially like the track you shared by Iya Terra. Their lead singer Nathan has a lot of charisma. I’m not too familiar with very much of 311’s music, though I like all their songs I have heard.