Tag Archive for: concert

DEAD PIONEERS AT STATE FARM ARENA ON MAY 1, OPENING FOR PEAL JAM

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/23/25

On May 1, 2025, Denver’s Dead Pioneers brought their punk energy to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, opening for Pearl Jam in a night that blended rebellion with rock legacy. Picked by Pearl Jam bassist Ament, the indigenous-fronted band, led by Gregg Deal, delivered a performance that was thought-provoking. Though the early crowd was small, those in attendance were treated to a performance that was a discovery. Dead Pioneers’ set was a reminder of punk’s power to inspire, and their selection by Ament underscored their rising status in music. 

Taking the stage around 7:30 PM, Dead Pioneers —featuring Shane Zweygardt on drums, Lee Tesche on bass, and guitarists Josh Rivera and Abe Brennan—launched into a raw and real set. Their performance drew mostly from their sophomore album, PO$T AMERICAN that was released April 11, 2025. As well as their 2023 self-titled debut, offering a blend of punk’s raw edge with social commentary. 

For the highlights, the band played “PO$T AMERICAN,” the title track of their new album, setting the tone with its driving rhythm and Deal’s large vocals. Tracks like “My Spirit Animal Ate Your Spirit Animal” and “Working Class Warfare” embraces the band’s disruptive spirit, while “Tired” from their debut album showcased their ability to balance melody and aggression. Leading us to “Rage,” an anthem that left everyone prepped for Pearl Jam. All of this while, Deal, took the time to weave in his political spoken poetry with themes of indigenous resistance and inequality.  

In conclusion, Dead Pioneers’ appearance at State Farm Arena was more than an opening act—it reflected Pearl Jam’s social advocacy. Their raw politically charged performance introduced Atlanta to a band unafraid to challenge the status quo. This is one to watch. 

Sources: 

Colorado Springs Independent, Setlist checked from Setlist.fm, Dead Pioneer’s band members and background pulled from deadpioneers.band , YouTube 

THE RENAISSANCE ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES A SPECIAL ONE-NIGHT ONLY CONCERT EVENT, MAY 30, AT CENTER STAGE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/12/25

‘Up the Score’ Takes Classical Back to the Lab with the Help of Guest Artists Genre Bending Violinist Michael Prince and Piano Prodigy BLKBOK 

Tickets Are On Sale Now

What if the score wasn’t the final version? What if you scratched beneath the surface, infused it with your own vibe remixed for the culture, tossed it with R&B and hip-hop, and set it with a full accompaniment of strings fueled by scores of the past?  These are the very questions The Renaissance Orchestra will answer as they ‘Up the Score’ on May 30 at Center Stage in Atlanta, GA.  Fueled by visionary founder Tyrone “OG” Bowie- a multi-talented, Atlanta-based musician, producer, and DJ, The Renaissance Orchestra is a groundbreaking musical collective that blends classical instrumentation with the pulse of modern production and what you end up with is a sound as much rooted in tradition as it is radically redefined and new.

“This isn’t just music, it’s personal,” says Tyrone “OG” Bowie, Founder of The Renaissance Orchestra. “When people experience ‘Up the Score,’ I want them to leave feeling like they have just witnessed a new cultural moment where orchestral music reflects the stories, energy, and excellence of Black artistry.”

‘Up the Score’ will not be the typical night at the symphony, while top hats and tails won’t be discouraged; this is a cultural experience and should be embraced as such. Guests can expect classical music tossed on its head, remixed for the culture — where hip-hop meets violin, R&B gets reimagined with full strings, and original scores get flipped like samples. 

For this special one-night-only concert event, Houston-born violinist producer and composer Michael Prince, known for his innovative fusion of classical hip-hop R&B jazz and pop music, will join The Renaissance Orchestra. Prince has collaborated with notable artists such as Jon Batiste, T-Pain, A$AP, Rocky Timbaland, and LaRussell and is revved up to bring that same collaboration spirit to ‘Up the Score.’  Additionally, BLKBOK, a classically trained pianist and composer known for blending classical music with hip-hop R&B and jazz influences, will tickle the ivories, adding another dimension to The Renaissance Orchestra’s sound. BLKBOK has toured with stars like Justin Timberlake and Rihanna before launching his solo career and redefining what it means to be a modern classical artist.

General Admission tickets for ‘Up the Score’ with Michael Prince and BLKBOK are on sale now at www.CenterStage.com. ‘Up the Score’ is produced by The Renaissance Orchestra. Visit www.TheRenaissanceOrchestra.com for the most up-to-date information. Stay connected on Facebook @TheRenaissanceOrchestra and Instagram at @RenaissanceOrchestra_. Center Stage is located at 1374 West Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia.

RIVAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS BIG NIGHT OUT FEAT. LAKE STREET DIVE & MARVELOUS 3

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/12/25

Hosted at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark, the Event is Part of a Series of Concerts Under the Stars in Public Spaces

Call off your dogs and grab your freak of the week because Big Night Out is back as a two-part story featuring Lake Street Dive and Marvelous 3, October 03 and 04 at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark. Presented by Atlanta festival producer Rival Entertainment, Big Night Out is a series of concerts under the stars in public places, which has included last year’s An Evening with CAKE, Big Boi, Futurebirds, Marcus King Trio, Moon Taxi, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and others. 

Lake Street Dive, the genre-blending band with a sound described as “if the Beatles and Motown had a party,” will get the party started- headling night one. Hometown heroes Marvelous 3, who have recently enjoyed a resurgence and have recently played three sold-out nights at The Tabernacle to celebrate their 25th anniversary, will close out the festivities on night two. Additional details, including special guests, will be released soon.

Located at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail, which hosted last year’s near-capacity crowd, organizers are encouraging fans to take advantage of the proximity of the venue to several landmarks such as Inman Park (.3 miles), Ponce City Market (.5 miles), Krog Market (.6 miles), and Piedmont Park (1.2 miles). While the event will be walkable for many, there will also be a complimentary bicycle valet, ride-share drop-off locations, and nearby parking.

General Admission and VIP ticket options for Big Night Out will go on sale Friday, May 16, through Rival Entertainment at Big Night Out. Lake Street Dive has partnered with PLUS1, donating $1 per ticket to First Peoples Fund and their work supporting artists and culture bearers helping Native communities heal and thrive, and the PLUS1 LA Fires Fund, providing critical relief and long-term recovery support for individuals, families, and communities impacted by the devastating LA wildfires.  Big Night Out is an all-ages event. Free admission for children under seven with a ticketed adult.

Big Night Out is produced by Rival Entertainment. Visit www.BigNightOutATL.com for the most up-to-date information. Stay connected on Facebook @RivalEntertainmentATL and Instagram at @RivalEntertainment. Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is located at 830 Willoughby Way, Atlanta, Georgia.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AND KICKOFF GAME FOOTBALL FEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/7/24

Grammy-Winning Artist & ATLien Antwan “Big Boi” Patton Headlines Free Celebration Concert on Aug. 24

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame and “Big Boi” 

The College Football Hall of Fame is marking its 10th anniversary in Atlanta and is bringing the community together at its 10th Anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest. 

The milestone celebration underscores the Hall’s pivotal role in helping establish Atlanta as the Capital of College Football and includes:

  • The unveiling of innovative new exhibits and enhanced fan engagement inside the Hall
  • Football and cheer clinics with notable Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders on the Peach Bowl Playing Field 
  • A star-studded lineup of live DJs, including DJ Jay Envy, DJ Euphoria and DJ Danny M, as well as MC Carlos Morales
  • Guest appearances from former Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders, representatives of the Atlanta Vibe, local team mascots, cheerleaders and marching bands
  • The famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables and prize giveaways
  • The day will be capped off with a concert entirely free to the public put on by Grammy-winning artist and Atlantan Antwan “Big Boi” Patton of the famed Outkast

A great experience for both families and general fans of college football complete with activities both inside the Hall and outside in front of the Hall on Marietta Street, keeping the excitement levels at a premium all day.

In addition to the complimentary concert from Big Boi, everyone can get in on the festivities, as the Hall and Coca-Cola have partnered to create the “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day,” allowing guests to experience all that the anniversary event has to offer both inside and outside the Hall. While tickets are not mandatory, guests do have the option to reserve their spot online prior to arrival.

To register for clinics, get advanced tickets and more, visit cfbhall.com.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to consider using Atlanta’s public transportation system, MARTA. 

SURYA ENSEMBLE HEATS UP ATLANTA THIS SUMMER WITH ELEMENTS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/24/24

World music experience takes audiences beyond borders and genres to connect with nature through music

Upcoming shows: The Lawrenceville Arts Center on Sept. 12, SCADshow on Oct. 10, and at the Brookhaven International Festival on Oct. 20

This summer Surya Ensemble is set to take Atlanta on a journey through the four elements of earth, water, wind and fire. In its signature style, the Atlanta-based world music group will bring East and West together in a fusion of instrumental music, dance and storytelling with the current show, Elements. The enchanting performance will take audiences through four distinct movements embodying the four elements, culminating in an unforgettable experience.

“While Atlanta offers a range of diverse live entertainment and cultural performances, Surya Ensemble is an experience like no other,” says Ankit Patel, Surya Ensemble’s founder and Shehnai player. “At a Surya concert, expect to be transported to faraway lands, moved by the emotional depth of our music and energized by the sheer joy of the performance.”

Surya Ensemble is a creative ensemble of performers who host concerts around Atlanta. United under the motto “Beyond borders, beyond genres,” the talented group effortlessly creates a fusion experience that transcends the ordinary. The familiar instruments of a violin, guitar and viola are accompanied by the uncommon sound of the Persian drums and Shehnai, a traditional Indian oboe, to bring together a unique yet harmonious blend of Eastern and Western influences. A cultural dancer adds an extra layer of color and energy to the experience. The ensemble was founded by Ankit Patel, a Shehnai player who has gained a large following on Instagram as “shehnaiguy.” He is accompanied by a talented group of local artists including Michelle Winters (violin), Nima Ghadiri(daf, a Middle Eastern frame drum), Catherine Evergreen (viola), Sean Thrower (guitar) and Maria Martynova (dancer).

In the debut show, Elements, the troupe will reconnect audiences with nature through narrative journey across the four elements. With the soulful melodies, infectious rhythms and virtuosic improvisation that define the Surya experience, each piece conveys distinct emotions and elicits the essence of each element, with audience members at the show’s premiere commenting they could “practically smell the fire.” Each movement is followed by a brief note from a member of the ensemble explaining the history and usage of their instrument, tying in a vital educational moment that enhances the audience’s understanding of the show and its mission.

The next showing of Elements will take place on Thursday, July 11 at the Atlanta Theater, with additional performances of the musical journey to be announced monthly in 2024 and into 2025. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com.

For more information on Surya Ensemble and upcoming performances of Elements visit suryaensemble.com, and keep up with the group on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

ALIEN ANT FARM X DRIVEWAYS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/7/24

What’s your MANTRA? John and I headed to Center Stage Atlanta, The Loft, to see Alient Ant Farm and Driveways show on 5/18/24! We are very familiar with Alien Ant Farm out of Riverside, CA, a rock band that started in 1996 and hit it big with their cover “Smooth Criminal” and other greats like “Movies” in 2001 on album, ANThology*! We still watch these videos on YouTube today!  

Their sound is considered nu metal, a blend of alternative, post-grunge, pop punk, and metal all rolled into one sound that pays homage to several genres. Did you know some of their influences are Faith No More and Primus? The band is very interactive and interacts with the crowd most of the concert. Like, Dryden Mitchell, coming to the gate and talking or having us sing along to even stopping the music to address a guy giving him the bird. It was fun to watch!  

But, this tour is to introduce and promote their new Album Mantras. Their new single that is out is called “So Cold” and still has the same feel as their other rock songs.  

Driveways is a newer band that we were not familiar with before the show. They are out of Massachusetts starting in 2015 and are considered a pop punk, post-hardcore band with a mix of genres. Most notable is the Blink-182 influence that comes through with many of their songs*. A fun fact we found on Everybody wiki is that in April 2020, their album Night Terrors was named on Alternative Press’ list of 20 Underrated Pop Punk Albums from the 2010s. They had a large following of fans at the concert! 

*information from wiki and everybody wiki pages. 

SHAKY KNEES 2024 DAY 2

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/5/24

Photo Dusana Risovic

With bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, Offspring, Queens of the Stone Age, and one of my favorites of all time Weezer. Day 2 had it all. Here’s a short recap. 

Starting with the newer bands, we heard both Microwave and Dead Poets Society. Microwave is out of Atlanta, which I didn’t know, and has a variety of sounds from loud, hard rock to 90’s fast slow, and then some punk. The other was Dead Poet’s Society out of Boston that had hard riffs that reminded me of Rob/White Zombie up front, thrash, but then the vocals come in softer and higher for a fun mix of sounds. I like that Jack Underkofler, the lead singer, fell into the crowd and crowd surfed while singing one of the first songs.  

On to the 90’s bands we love, first we actually had to miss Offspring because we had never seen Sunny Day Real Estate and we’re going to spend time with a band that we hadn’t seen. We love Offspring, I saw them back in 1994 and heard they did an incredible show. That brings us to Sunny Day Real Estate. They are one of those 90’s bands that I just got introduced to by a friend a few years ago and we started watching their videos on YouTube. I call them the quintessential fast slow early 90’s band. Melodious verses and vocals erupt into a barrage of heavy guitar and pounding drums, Sunny Day Real Estate satisfies song after song. Tour t-shirt purchased! More to come in our review. 

Have you ever found yourself driving too fast on the interstate? You might have been listening to Queens of the Stone Age. What I call fast driving music, Queens of the Stone Age are very drum forward with deep and heavy beats, beautiful guitar riffs and Josh Homme’s great voice. Plus, they visually never disappoint, this year with roaming light show. Last time we saw them they had a large video board with led visuals that really went well with the music. Did you know Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters) also did the drums on “No One Knows?” which you can tell by the drums! But my favorite of their songs after last night is “Go with the flow.” I always liked it but realized it is more diverse musically than some of the others.  

My boyfriend back in 1994 gave me a non-descript bright blue album as a present. Little did I know that that album would be in my top 5 all-time records, and Weezer would cement themselves into rock god status in my life. I’ve seen Weezer over the years from them playing large festivals to arenas to a small stage at the Braves stadium and they always sound perfect. What I call garage or college rock, Weezer has a distinct sound that no one else can create and that sets them apart from some of the other 90’s bands, don’t get me wrong, I love most early 90’s bands! The underlying hum of the guitars, explosions of rock juxtaposing the smoothness or River’s voice, it all comes together completely. What I love about them live is they really play up the guitar and show their musical prowess, plus, visually, they always have their W front and center. If you’ve never seen them live, you must; it is an experience.  

We didn’t make it to liquid death’s activation, it is on our to do list for today. We’re excited about Dinosaur Jr, Billy Idol, and Foo Fighters today. It’s going to be hot, so wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water. 

SHAKY KNEES 2024 DAY 1

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/24

Photo by Roger Ho.

With acts like Weezer and Foo Fighters, this year’s Shaky Knees spoke to my Gen X heart. Here’s our day one recap with our favorite new bands, artist moments, and everything in between.

Something we’re highlighting this Shaky Knees beyond the stout 90’s band line-up are the new bands that we catch. The first one is Ax and the Hatchetmen, a young indie 7-piece out of Chicago with tons of energetic big band, funky, rocky, and beachy all rolled into one fun time. A great show! They had a wonderful artist moment, handing out water with a QR code to their newest song, “Flagstaff” that they performed live and came out yesterday! Another band that we hadn’t seen is and enjoyed is Late Night Drive Home out of Texas. The lead singer, Andre Patillo, came out with a red mak on that had frills at the bottom. They’re a blend of punk, rock, 90s with swelling choruses. We loved they sang Blur, “Song No. 2.”

Our favorite of the bands we know is Metric out of Canada. A band that played on 99x back in the day, and that I know probably 5 songs from was thoroughly enjoyable. Emily Haines, the lead singer, came out in a bright red shinny body suit. If you know Metric, they are heavy into electronic and keyboard, yet rock and 80s infused. Reminiscent of Garbage to me, “Help I’m Alive,” was the highlight for me. I hadn’t heard it live and it was my favorite of their music then and now.

We also caught Interpol and Arcade Fire, two bands I had not seen live. Arcade Fire puts on a spectacle of a show with tons of light and movement, and loved the horizon and sunset/sunrise visuals of the performance. Interpol had black and white on the big screens, they’re very controled yet upbeat rock and smooth lyrics all encased in a European rock sound.

It wouldn’t be a large music festival without festival polls, our favorite was the blown up stick of butter. Plus, we were blown away by the Doordash food court with some great Atlanta and regional restaurants like Hattie Bs. Today we are going to explore the most elaborate activation I’ve ever seen, Liquid Death. We will report back.

Who is ready for day 2? John and I are super excited for Sunny Day Real Estate today! We hope the Thunderstorms stay away.

This is just a snapshot of day 1. A full article and review of bands to come.

2024 ROSWELL MUSIC FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/25/24

Saturday, May 18, 2024

1:00 PM – 10:00 PM

37 Magnolia Street

Roswell, GA 30075

Roswell Music Festival Announces Lineup for Second Annual Event

The highly anticipated 2024 Roswell Music Festival is back for its second year, set to take place on May 18th in the heart of Historic Downtown Roswell. Following the tremendous success of its inaugural edition, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better, featuring an electrifying lineup of renowned performers and an array of exciting activities for attendees of all ages.

Headlining this year’s festival is critically acclaimed band Sister Hazel bringing their hits such as ‘All For You’, ‘Change Your Mind’ and ‘Champagne High.’ Joining Sister Hazel on one of the two stages will be Kevn Kinney Band, Bloodkin, Frankly Scarlet, Troy Doherty, Cat Ridgeway & The Tourists, Magnolia Express, and Davis and The Love. With two stages hosting non-stop entertainment throughout the day, attendees can expect an unforgettable musical experience that spans a variety of genres.

In addition to the stellar musical lineup, the festival will offer a vibrant atmosphere with tent vendors, food vendors serving up delicious culinary delights, craft beer to quench your thirst, and a VIP tent for those seeking an enhanced festival experience.

Supporting our military veterans is a key focus of the 2024 Roswell Music Festival. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Shepherd’s Men, an organization dedicated to advocating for and providing opportunities to our nation’s veteran heroes who have been affected by the hidden injuries of war. By attending the festival, patrons will enjoy a day of fantastic music and entertainment and contribute to a worthy cause. 

“We are thrilled to announce the lineup for the 2024 Roswell Music Festival and to welcome music lovers from near and far to join us for a day of celebration and community,” said Trew Rickers, Festival Director.  “We have a dedicated committee of Roswell business leaders to include Alan Carlquist, Jeris Hollander, Jeremy Smith and Jeremy Fort.  With an incredible lineup of performers, exciting activities, and opportunities to support our military veterans, this year’s festival promises to be a truly memorable experience for all.” 

The family-friendly festival will kick off at 1:00 pm and continue until 10:00 pm, rain or shine. Tickets for the event are on sale now via Freshtix. Sponsorship opportunities and tent vendor spaces are also available for businesses looking to showcase their support for the event. For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to inquire about becoming a tent vendor, please contact the festival organizer at info@roswellmusicfestival.com.

Don’t miss out on the excitement of the 2024 Roswell Music Festival – mark your calendars and get ready for a day of music, fun, and community spirit!

roswellmusicfestival.com
 freshtix.com/events/roswellmusicfestival
info@roswellmusicfestival.com‭
(404) 425-4815

HELMET AT THE MASQUERADE ATLANTA ON SUNDAY MAY 12 WITH GUESTS CRO-MAGS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/19/24

Playing in Hell at the Masquerade

Sunday, March 12 Doors are 7pm, all ages

$27.50 Advance. Tickets here.

Helmet, an American Alternative rock band out of New York join forces with guest Cro-Mags, a hardcore band, for an evening that will blow you away. Maybe literally.

HELMET

Helmet is an American alternative rock band from New York City formed in 1989 by vocalist and lead guitarist Page Hamilton. Since 2010, the band has consisted of Hamilton, drummer Kyle Stevenson, guitarist Dan Beeman and bassist Dave Case.

Helmet has released eight studio albums and two compilation albums. After releasing their debut album, Strap It On (1990), on Amphetamine Reptile, Helmet signed to Interscope Records and released three albums for the label, including the highly successful Meantime (1992), Betty (1994) and Aftertaste (1997). Helmet broke up in 1998, but reformed in 2004, and has since released four more albums ― Size Matters (2004), Monochrome (2006), Seeing Eye Dog (2010) and Dead to the World (2016).

In June 2021 the band released via their website only a limited edition box set entitled “Move On” featuring 4 x 7” singles including the following covers and live tracks:

  • Move on (David Bowie) w/ More Bad News live
  • Mercy (Wire) w/ Rollo live
  • ETI (Blue Oyster Cult) w/ Blacktop live
  • I’m only sleeping (The Beatles) w/ Crisis King live

2023 saw the band return to the studio for it’s ninth album Left which was released by earMusic in November 2023.

CRO-MAGS

“It is 1981 in New York City: a distant planet, hard to see now. Beastie Boys is just being embryonically formed in a rehearsal space somewhere. Elsewhere, Butthole Surfers, Cro-Mags, Motley Crue, Napalm Death, Run- DMC, Sonic Youth, and Wham! are likewise coagulating.”

-Luc Sante “Beastie Revolution” introduction to Beastie Boys Book (2018)

The history of the Cro-Mags is integral to the history of Hardcore, it’s evolution from Punk and the development of alternative music genres such as thrash, cross-over, thrash metal, post punk and grunge to name a few. Numerous iconic bands from Metallica to Green Day, and individuals such as Dave Grohl have credited Cro-Mags with having a primal influence on their development.

The brain child of a very young Harley Flanagan back in 1981 (at the time 14 years old) when still playing with the Stimulators, Flanagan set out to start his own band. By 1982/83 he recorded the very first Cro-Mags demos consisting of 4 songs that would become the blue print for the seminal 1986 “Age of Quarrel.” He wrote all of the music, played each instrument and sang. Before long he was joined by Parris Mayhew and the two started writing music and auditioning band members. 

After several line-ups, 6 album releases (beyond the original demos) and 40 years of tours around the world, Cro-Mags remains one of the most iconic hardcore bands with tremendous reach and influence beyond the genre.