COZY THRONE – LIVE AT HUTGHI’S AT THE NOOK
Cozy Throne live at Hutghi’s at the Nook in Westfield, MA
Photographing and reviewing big shows is always exhilarating, but there’s a unique thrill to capturing the essence of the local music scene. It’s a journey filled with surprises, as hidden gems often lie nestled among random streets, sandwiched between laundry mats and nail salons. These obscure bars exude character, a perfect match for the energy and individuality of the bands gracing their stages.
On this particular Saturday evening in Hutghi’s at The Nook in Westfield, MA, the atmosphere perfectly aligns with its renowned reputation. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the familiar sights of a bustling bar scene. However, your journey leads you deeper into the establishment, towards a dimly lit chamber tucked away at the rear. Within this intimate space, a modest stage awaits, adorned with a handful of spotlights casting speckled hues and a tiny disco ball twinkling overhead. It’s a scene meticulously crafted, embodying the essence of perfection.
I was there to capture moments of the local New Hampshire-based band known as Cozy Throne. Curious about their genre? If you inquire, Cozy Throne would likely emphasize their dedication to authenticity and their roots in all aspects of their craft. They view themselves as “4 randos in a graffiti-ed basement trying things out and seeing if it works.” Honestly, this description perfectly encapsulates Harry MacCallum on Bass, Ben Farrari on Guitar, Lindy Snell on Drums, and Amara Phelps on Vocals.
Attempting to confine them within a specific genre would be unjust; their versatility defies such categorization. I appreciate that when it comes to defining their genre, opinions vary widely. The performance they delivered on that Saturday, featuring their unique lineup, was no exception.
Witnessing Cozy Throne‘s performances, one cannot resist the urge to dance, smile, and simply revel in the moment. Listening to Cozy Throne often transports me back to my high school/college days. I’m not sure if it’s because their music evokes the pure happiness we all felt in our younger years or if it’s the powerhouse female presence that takes me back. Amara Phelps embodies the energy of Cozy Throne.
She is one of the happiest, kindest, and incredibly talented souls you will ever meet. With her vibrant hair and impeccably stylish outfits, she commands the stage with a voice that stands out as uniquely powerful and her own. Perhaps it’s the comparison with iconic female rockers like Deloris O’Riordan, Shirley Manson, Gwen Stefani, and Lzzy Hale that resonates and takes me back.
Phelps’s voice doesn’t necessarily sound like those iconic female rockers; rather, it embodies the spirit of Cozy Throne, much like the incredible powerhouse women I mentioned above do in their respective bands. Phelps harnesses that same stage presence and undeniable command, making her an integral part of Cozy Throne.
However, Cozy Throne is more than just Phelps. Lindy Snell’s dynamic drumming provides the heartbeat of the band, driving each song forward with precision and energy. Ben Farrari’s soulful guitar solos add layers of depth and emotion, while Harry MacCallum’s bass lines form the solid foundation upon which the band’s sound is built. Together, their individual talents coalesce into a unified force, creating a sound that is unmistakably Cozy Throne. Each solo, beat, and bass line intertwines seamlessly, bringing their music to life in a way that captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression.
The band set the tone with their opening song, “Paste,” from their album “Sales Pitch.” It’s a high-energy track with a catchy chorus that sticks in your head. The bass line serves as a perfect introduction, leading into Phelps’ vocals, which complement the infectious guitar riffs with varying ranges and tempos.
The energetic tone of Cozy Throne‘s set continues with the debut of their brand new song, “Say What You Wanted,” along with beloved tracks like “Gimme a Moment” and “Victim of Circumstance,” which delves into the theme of imposter syndrome, a topic Phelps addresses onstage, resonating with many listeners. Throughout their performance, Cozy Throne effortlessly commands the stage, captivating audiences of all sizes with their verve and energy.
As the set drew to a close, Cozy Throne left a lasting impression with ‘Panic Pack,’ a high-energy finale that showcased Farrari’s impressive guitar skills. Their performances consistently engage audiences, ensuring full immersion in the music from start to finish.
Throughout Cozy Throne‘s performance, the rhythmic foundation laid down by Lindy Snell on drums and Harry MacCallum on bass was nothing short of impressive. Snell’s drumming provided the driving force behind each song, seamlessly transitioning between tempos and adding dynamic fills that kept the energy high and always with a smile on her face.
MacCallum’s bass lines were equally noteworthy, anchoring the band’s sound with precision and groove and the energy he gives off when he is playing. He is some much fun to photograph. Together, Snell and MacCallum formed a formidable rhythm section that provided the backbone for Cozy Throne‘s eclectic mix of songs, demonstrating their versatility and musicianship
While Cozy Throne is known for their energetic performances, they also excel in slower paced songs. I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend catching them playing ‘August,’ a song primarily driven by Farrari on guitar and vocals. This beautifully crafted song resonates with many and showcases Farrari’s talent. The entire band joins in for the final 30 seconds, adding to its emotional impact.
Positioned between bands like Green Street Fiends, a metal/ska group, Crisis Crayons, a traditional ska band, and Recent History, an alternative dance rock pop band, Cozy Throne maintained their high energy throughout the night. Their ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and electrifying performance is a testament to their talent and passion for music.
From the infectious energy of Amara Phelps to the powerhouse rhythm section provided by Lindy Snell, Harry MacCallum, and Ben Farrari, each member brings something special to the table, creating a musical journey that captivates and inspires. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing their music for the first time, a night with Cozy Throne promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with joy, energy, and pure musical bliss.
You can catch Cozy Throne live in Portsmouth, NH this coming Saturday, April 13th at The Press Room. They’ll also be performing at UNH on April 20th, and if you’re a fan of tacos, don’t miss their show at The Shaskeen in Manchester on May 2nd. It’s sure to be a fantastic experience!
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