May 2011

Event Reviews

Chicago

Chris Long goes gaga for a real band that plays real melodic, hook-laden, happy pop/rock songs with real instruments (live). What a concept. Chicago doesn't disappoint, putting on what is, to this die-hard fan, easily the best show of the year -- so far!

Coheed and Cambria

New York's prog rock kingpins, Coheed and Cambria, hit a home run when their 10th anniversary Neverender tour rolled into St. Pete's premier concert venue. Christopher Long texts his review from the cheap seats.

Danzig

Danzig and DevilDriver tested the limits of the Hard Rock's code of concert audience conduct at a recent Orlando date. Jen Cray plays nice for security.

Interpol

Interpol brought School of Seven Bells along with them for a semi-annual date with their loyal Orlando fans -- fans like Jen Cray.

Le Butcherettes

Le Butcherettes unleash their inner she-beast at an Orlando show that not only wowed Jen Cray, but won over a venue full of macho Deftones fans.

My Chemical Romance

My Chemical Romance was never high on Jen Cray's list of favorites, but the years have been kind to both the band's songwriting and to their ability to stage a live show. In Orlando, as on virtually every other date of their 2011 World Contamination Tour, a sold-out sign screamed across the venue's marquee.

Sleigh Bells

Sleigh Bells and CSS co-headline a perfect night to party. Their trip into Orlando brought out the fans, and Jen Cray was one of 'em.

The Psychedelic Furs

Before John Hughes and Molly Ringwald came along, "Pretty in Pink" was a song on a seminal post-punk album, Talk Talk Talk. The Psychedelic Furs are celebrating the disc's 30th anniversary with a tour, and Steve Stav was there to soak up the nostalgia -- and a few surprises.

Uh Huh Her

Uh Huh Her have become worthy of the blind support their flock of fans have bestowed upon them since the day they all heard that Leisha Hailey of The L Word was a member. Jen Cray was on hand for their return to Orlando.

Wanee Festival 2011 featuring The Allman Brothers Band

The 7th annual Wanee Festival, hosted by The Allman Brothers Band, brought icons of Rock 'n' Roll's past to idyllic Live Oak, FL. Phillip Haire soaked it all in before staggering to his campsite each night.