BLACK BEAR MUSIC FEST – SATURDAY – DAY 2
By Ralph Beauchamp
The Black Bear Music Fest was held at the Harwinton Fairgrounds from 8/14 – 8/16 with artists like The Slambovian Circus Of Dreams, Michael Glabicki, Dirk Miller, The Adam Ezra Group, Palmyra, Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers, Tall Travis, Belle Of The Fall and others performing.
First of all, I have to apologize to Day 1 of the Black Bear Music Fest. Neither my photographer, Mark Turek, or myself were able to attend the first day of the event. Speaking with the attendees that were there, Day 1 was a blast with amazing acts (including Pure Prairie League) and wonderful weather.
We started off day 2 with Johnny Longo And The Kool Head Band who had the audience jumping from the moment they hit the Main Stage. Singer/Guitarist, Johnny Longo belted out hi-energy covers songs, one after the other. The front of the stage was packed with dancers enjoying the funky beats. It’s a large ensemble. I believe 11 pieces including a horn section and awesome back-up singer that occasionally took the lead. Songs like Ray Charles’ “What I Say” rocked the house.
We caught a bit of Nikki Camps performance on the Black Bear Acoustic Stage and she delivered a superb set of brilliant tracks. Sam Robbins was next and he also dispatched a radiant array of original songs. His on stage demeaner was pleasant and vocals were on-point. The Black Bear audience really enjoyed his playing.
Photos Mark Turek
Michael Glabicki of Rusted Root fame was next up on the Black Bear Main Stage. He was accompanied by Dirk Miller. This was definitely one of the highlights of the evening as Glabicki transmitted an atmospheric tsunami of Rusted Root standards and brilliant new music. Glabicki and Miller spun Americana magic dust with a rhythmic flair through out his set. Rusted Roots’ “Send Me On MY Way” and Neil Young’s “Cinnamon Girl” were definite crowd pleasers.
Back on the Acoustic Stage was Belle Of The Fall. This duo was outstanding. The band is comprised of Julia Autumn Ford (Vocals/Guitar) and Tracy Walton (Vocals/Standup Bass). Their songs blend contemporary Americana and modern folk which in turn creates a singular aura. Both their voices carry a special lilt and when they harmonize the air becomes electric. They played several new tunes and had a vote for a Simon & Garfunkel cover. “The Boxer” won. This was truly a dynamic performance.
Ryan Shupe and The Rubberband from Utah followed on the Main Stage and what a riot. This was one of the best surprises of the night. Their music covers bluegrass, Americana, country and rock and they mash it all up into a deliciously charismatic stew. The music was fun and the band surely enjoyable to watch.
Ryan Shupe & The Rubberband’s on-stage antics had the Black Bear crowd on their feet. Their singalong song “Hey Hey Hey” was a big hit. Singer-songwriter Liz Reed and I were talking after their set and we both felt that we have found an exciting new act. If they are in your area, by all means check them out.
Photos Mark Turek
Another huge revelation was Tall Travis with their Americana melted with punk, jazz and Irish music sensibilities. These young musicians not only entertained the Black Bear devoted, they blew the roof off the proverbial house. Based out of Burlington, Vermont, Tall Travis let out a imposing set of songs that filled the air with glorious rhapsodies. Their songwriting was superb and their showmanship was impeccable. They turned the night into a shower of dazzling fireflies. This is a group to watch.
On the Main Stage, our friends, The Slambovian Circus Of Dreams, closed out the Fest. This was the band most of the audience came to see. They have an avid fanbase who love their every note. As soon as Joziah, Tink and the rest of the group started to play, the front of the stage was full of dancing devotees.
The Slambovians always put on a divine show. Their music filters rock, folk and psychedelia into a sublime hazy groove that warms their listeners’ hearts. “The Trans-Slabovian Bipolar Express” and “Beez” were truly fan favorites.
Day 2 of the Black Bear Music Fest was an ultimate success. The weather was perfect. The festival goers were full of spirit and every act transformed the Harwinton Fairgrounds into a sea of beautiful sounds.
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