Category: Concert Connection

Concert Review: Cheap Trick at The Paramount

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Cheap Trick Live at The Paramount, Huntington, NY – October 21, 2025

There’s something truly admirable about a band that’s been at it since 1973 and still refuses to slow down. Cheap Trick has outlasted most of their peers, and somehow, they still make it look like fun.

The classic trio ran through the hits with ease, and Robin Zander can still hit those high notes — especially on the ’80s ballad “The Flame.” Rick Nielsen, ever the showman, joked to the crowd that they were “too stupid to quit” before breaking into “Twelve Gates,” a track from their upcoming album All Washed Up.

The Paramount crowd started off a little mellow but quickly found their groove, singing along to “Surrender” and other favorites. The sound mix was a bit muddy at times, but that didn’t faze them. Zander was in great spirits, and Nielsen powered through with his usual swagger.

Sure, the guys move a little slower these days — they’ve earned it — but they still put on a show that’s equal parts nostalgic and genuinely enjoyable. Cheap Trick might not have anything left to prove, but they keep proving it anyway.

With several tour dates left, this might be one of the last chances to see Cheap Trick in full flight. Catch them while you still can.

Live at The Bowery Electric: Steve Conte, JoyBuzzer, The Jellybricks, The Midnight Callers

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I was a happy participant at the show in the basement bar Bowery Electric on June 13, 2025. How could I not love all these great bands! MC’ed by Kurt Baker, The Midnight Callers opened the evening with their retro-rock swagger, reimagining ’70s riffs.  Next, The Jellybricks performed power-pop with style. From “DOA Brooklyn” to a lively Beatles cover (“I’ve Just Seen a Face”), their set was tight, lyrical, and full of hooks. Joy Buzzer lit up the room and the crowd sang along to their debut ‘Pleased to Meet You’ album loaded with  energy. Steve Conte ended the night with some serious New York Dolls-inspired swagger. What else can I say? Check out the video bits from my buddy Steven.

See the entire Playlist

Mike Viola New Song! “She’s A Blur”

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It’s been a long time since I saw and chatted with Mike Viola. But I attended a show in Roslyn, NY, and was lucky enough to say hello. Not an interview, and the sound is terrible, more of a “meet-and-greet,” and he’s got a new album follow-up to last year’s Paul McCarthy. I filmed one of the new songs, an acoustic ballad titled “She’s A Blur.” He mentioned on the next tour he would have a full rock band. I can’t wait!

Concert Review: Collective Soul at The Paramount

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Since making its debut in 1994, Collective Soul has consistently released very good music, including their latest, Vibrating. Their lineup has remained Ed & Dean Rolland, and bassist Will Turpin and they have maintained their standard of excellence while producing well-received post-grunge rock for a devoted audience. Nearly three decades after their founding, they continue to strive to create music with strong melodies and hooks. In contrast to last year’s concert supporting Vibrating, this concert was a “greatest hits” celebration. And they have plenty of fan-favorites, including honoring fellow Georgian band R.E.M. with a cover of “The One I Love.”

See concert footage on our Instagram Page. Check out the band’s next appearance.

Collective Soul, Ed Rolland Collective Soul, Ed Rolland Collective Soul, Ed Rolland Collective Soul, Ed Rolland

 

A great moment onstage was when they introduced a fan to join them onstage.

 

IPO returns to NYC

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It’s been a long time, but it was great to get out and see live music again. The International Pop Overthrow festival returned to New York City this past weekend at Arlene’s Grocery. A lot of familiar faces were there over the weekend; Slybooks, The John Sally Ride, Wendy Ip, Bubble, Eytan Mirsky, Meyerman, The Anderson Council, and The Grip Weeds. The crowd was really into it this year, and as always David Bash was an excellent master of ceremonies. David continues to globe-trot with his festival, heading to Boston next week. If he comes to your town don’t miss it!