ARTIKAL SOUND SYSTEM / ONE TIME WEEKEND
Let’s start by saying that being able to attend live shows once again is unbelievable. It’s been a year and a half of live streams and empty venues. To feel the energy and excitement that an act delivers on stage brings tears to my eyes. I do believe the musicians and artists feel the same way. To feed on the kinetic electricity of an enthusiastic audience and harness that spirit to create an incredible experience has to be divine.
There are several people I would to thank for bringing back live music so quickly. Both Rich Demko (NeuroTronix Record and Promotions) and Pete Mould (The Cellar on Treadwell) have provided national and local talent excellent platforms to perform. Also Keith Mahler and Mark Nussbaum of Premier Concerts / Manic Presents have opened up the state to a vast number of outstanding shows with incredible line-ups performing at the Westville Music Bowl, College Street and the Space Ballroom. I send blessings to everyone associated with Live Nation. I know I’m leaving out countless promoters and venues and to all of them my heartfelt thanks. It’s been a long hard road.
That said, this past weekend I got a chance to attend an awesome show at The Space Ballroom. One Time Weekend and Artikal Sound System opened for the rambunctious Bumpin Uglies. Right off the bat I have to apologize to the Bumpin Uglies. Being a parent has its joys but also its pitfalls. I had to leave only after a few songs. Their set was full of excitement even though the sound mix was off. The little I witnessed saw the crowd enjoying themselves as they swayed to the cool vibes of the Bumpin Uglies.
First up was local upstarts, One Time Weekend. The band based out of Hartford area have built a huge industry buzz notwithstanding their young age and fairly new existence. One Time Weekend is comprised of Adam Eytan (Guitar/Vocals), Ian D’Arcangelo (Lead Vocals/Bass), Zac Mulcahy (Guitar/Keyboards) and Ben Sullivan (Drums/Percussions). Their sound is a mix of jam band, reggae, and whatever other genre you want to add. Their music is versatile and fresh. The band plays with a cosmic intensity that vibrates throughout their music.
Their show at The Space Ballroom was full of vitality with both the band and the audience thoroughly animated. One Time Weekend definitely brought an amazing zeal that ushered the house to a higher ground. Their four song set was formidable. They opened with “Circles Around The Sun” which garnished a mighty roar. By the time they finished the show with “One Time Weekend”, the crowd was extremely satisfied and gratified. Their vocals and harmonies were sharp and the musicianship outstanding. This was my first time seeing the band and I was quite impressed. Looking forward to catching them in the near future.
Artikal Sound System followed. The band from the South Florida area plays an eclectic blend of reggae, ska and rock. Artikal Sound System is made up of Chris Montague (Guitar), Fabian Acuna (Bass), Christopher Cope (Keyboards), Adam Kampf (Drums) and the brassy Logan Rex (Lead Vocals). The band espouses a message of unity and friendship through their intrepid music. On top of that, Artikal‘s essence is one of fun and having a good time.
Artikal‘s fifteen song set was intermixed with smooth reggae and extraordinary groove laden rhythms. Logan’s vocals were brazen and profoundly melodic. Her stage persona was impeccable. She easily captivated the crowd with her sensual moves and dynamic voice. Montague’s guitar filled the venue with lush textures and the rhythm section was formidable throughout. Cope’s keyboards boldly cascaded around the room cementing the cool aura of the band.
Highlights on the night included the vibrant “Easy Road” and the memorable “Changes”. One of my favorites was the satirical, “You’re As Asshole” which Logan prefixed by saying the song was about an old boyfriend. They even premiered a new song, “Spiritual Broadcaster” which the audience ate up. Artikal‘s entire performance was a sonic eargasm with lifting sensitivities and warm passions.
Also, Artikal Sound System just penned a recording deal with Silverback Music. AMP wishes them the best of luck with their signing and new releases. They are a grand ensemble.
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To learn more about One Time Weekend, check out their Website
Follow on Facebook / Instagram / YouTube
Stream music: Spotify / Soundcloud / Apple Music
To learn more about Artikal Sound System, check out their Website
Follow on Facebook / Instagram / YouTube
Stream music: Spotify / Soundcloud / Apple Music
To learn more about Bumpin Uglies, check out their Website
Follow on Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Twitter
Stream music: Spotify / Soundcloud / Apple Music
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