Published blog for Harry Acosta, Columbus-based designer and photographer
Sammy Rae & The Friends brought a fresh, genre-blending approach while The Avett Brothers provided a reflective and emotionally resonant counterpoint. They are known for their earnest, heartfelt performances that can bring fans to tears. Their set was a journey through their extensive discography, featuring both fan favorites and new material from their eponymous album released in May.
Unfortunately, when Jenny Lewis took the stage, the entire venue got a lot hotter. Known for her poignant songwriting and eclectic musical style, Jenny Lewis delivered a performance that captivated young and old. As the lights dimmed and the first chords of “The Big Guns” reverberated through the hall, the audience was drawn into Lewis’s world. A few fan favorites were missing, but the setlist was a journey of Lewis’s artistic evolution since the start of her solo career after her departure from Rilo Kiley, over ten years ago.
Maggie Rose’s performance at the A&R Music Bar on May 31, 2024, emphasized her musical versatility and emotional resonance too. Known for her ability to blend genres, dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess, Maggie delivered a set that punctuated her versatility and depth as an artist. Maggie is a performer whose true vocal talent transcends the studio recordings during her live performance.
Morgan Wade and Alex Dezen illuminated the stage at the Mershown Auditorium in Columbus, Ohio for fans young and old.
April 26, Wexner Center Mershon Auditorium in Columbus, Ohio, hosted a two and a half hour, all acoustic performance, bringing together country fans of all ages. They were by no means the primary audience but there were a great deal of elementary-aged girls and boys in attendance. It is likely that the acoustic, female vocalist performances made for a more inviting scene for parents to bring their children.
Performing first was the talented Alex Dezen, whose songwriting prowess and musical ingenuity added a layer of depth to the evening's performance. His sound was more indi-folk rather than country for his solo set, but in line with his band the Damnwells started in 2000. Dezen's introspective lyrics and poignant melodies resonated deeply with the audience, drawing them into a world of raw emotion and introspection. His ability to craft songs that speak to the human experience in such a profound way is remarkable.
The auditorium didn’t fill up until just before Morgan Wade’s performance which is a shame because Alex Dezen was entertaining with his soothing, vocals, strumming and real-to-life lyrics and witty banter.
Morgan Wade, with her commanding presence and raw vocal talent, captured the audience immediately. Her voice, a blend of grit and vulnerability, soared through the auditorium, filling every corner with its emotive power. From the haunting melodies of her ballads to the fiery intensity of her anthems, Wade's performance was authentic.
But it wasn't just her musical prowess that made the evening so special; it was also her genuine connection with the audience. Between songs, both Wade and Dezen took the time to engage with the crowd, sharing stories and anecdotes that added a personal touch to the performance. She was accompanied by a fella named Clint on stage. Despite praising him for being a good dad, she was able to make him the friendly butt of her jokes on stage for the majority of the night.
Her accent was paired with her plain-clothed, casual atmosphere. It was clear that they weren't just there to play music; they were there to connect with each and every person in the audience on a deeper level.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a sense of bittersweetness in the air. On one hand, people were reluctant to see the performance end, wanting to bask in the magic of Wade and Dezen's music for just a little while longer. But on the other hand, there was a feeling of gratitude for having been able to experience something so special.
By the close of the evening, Morgan Wade and Alex Dezen delivered a performance that touched the hearts and minds of everyone in attendance. From the moment they stepped onto the stage, it was evident that this evening would be nothing short of extraordinary. Their talent, passion, and authenticity were on full display, leaving a mark on those fortunate enough to witness it; a testament to the power of music to touch the soul and unite us all in shared humanity.
Finally, it was time for the headliners, Static-X, to take the stage … almost. First, their eclectic "opener" begged the question, will metalheads sing along to "Sweet Caroline"? The answer is yes! One of the greatest aspects of witnessing a metal performance is that it is a safe place to express your love for music in all of its forms. You could hear the faint rumblings of those who knew all the lyrics, while the entire venue roared into Neil Diamond's famous chorus.
The Kills, an electrifying duo composed of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince have not been to Columbus, OH since 2016. A Columbus radio station know as CD101, later CD102.5, and finally CD92.9 has held an, often bi-annual, showcase of indie and alternative music as far back as 2004. These discounted festivals would sell out and bring a handful of unpaid bands in for one night. The only money these artists would make was from merch sales. The independently-owned station has been riddled with challenges and as of February 1st, 2024 has ceased their terrestrial broadcast. They can still be streamed online, but the impact of the loss of their presence has local concert-goers uneasy. Will the lesser-known, up-and-coming, and even local touring musicians still find Columbus a welcoming, safe-haven stop on their tour worthwhile?
People think concert photographers are treated like VIP. We must tour with them. They probably know the band and are friends. We high five and muse over our love for the other’s work. In reality for this show, I drove 4 hours round trip to Cleveland on an unpaid assignment to photograph P¡nk for about 12 minutes. I spent hours editing the files, coming up with a write up, and publishing it online. P¡nk will never see any of this, although her publicist will be given a link to the review.
Patrick Droney is about as nice of a performer as you will ever meet. And if you know his music, you love his music. Versed with the guitar like John Mayer, at times sounding like Rick Springfield, and skilled with his his lyrics like the Avett Brothers or John Moreland. He is an amalgam of talent more humble than a roadside vagabond.
Sunday had the earliest start time for the fest, and the most relaxing atmosphere. The third day was reserved for indie and folk musicians. Even the weather had calmed down to a more manageable temperature. A feature of the VIP areas at WonderBus this year was the ability to reserve private suites. There were several premium suites to relax and enjoy each other's company in the shade.
WonderBus music and arts festival is so much more with an emphasis on mental health wellness each year through many of the non-profit vendors on site and informative introductions before most stage performances. RADD Ohio had a booth by the third stage with hopes of making sure everyone got home safely.
To put it in perspective, Riot Fest in Chicago this year has 30 bands playing each day. Wonderbus has a total of 30 bands in three days at a similar price point. Of course, there are many specials run throughout the year to commit to the festival experience without paying full price. It is not a large festival, so on the first day, they allow people the opportunity to come out after work hours to start their weekend without missing any performances.
