As part of the opening weekend of Thrilladelphia Festival’s third year representing the incredible wealth of musical talent in the 215, Cordalene, Sam Champion, Jake the Flying Rake’s Nitrogen Band and American Altitude almost took the roof off the Manhattan Room at the Freshout Media showcase. All four bands said a big “Up yours!” to the pouring rain and cold weather playing until 2 a.m. to the soggy but enthusiastic crowd of music lovers who braved the downpour to see the show. The free Yards took the edge off.
Cordalene jump started the night with their unique and energetic drive-beat and mesmerizing vocals, playing a really tight and intensely fun set after bassist Jeff Anderson tossed off his Thrilladelphia organizing duties to join his band onstage. (Nice guys that they are they set up his gear for him.)
The four friendliest rockers in the land, Sam Champion, bit back major hangovers to blast some harmonica-blowin’, foot-tappin’ tunes for the appreciative crowd. Guitarist Sean Bones finished the set on his knees throwing down an epically fervent and earnest performance.
Jake the Flying Rake’s Nitrogen Band made their Philly premiere short a guitarist but not short on spirit, eagerly spilling out a full set of jumpy pop-rock tunes.
The late night ended with the gentle, captivating lap steel and brushed drums of American Altitude, whose fluid, mountainous country sound stunned even the most tired of the bar stragglers. They are the only band I’ve seen be begged for an encore at 2 a.m.
Even though a drippy blue light bulb ruined some of Cordalene’s merch and the free beer only lasted ’till midnight, nobody turned into pumpkins and Philly’s amazing fans stuck it out to the end. To all the bands, writers, and scene-nurturers who showed us Saturday night love, here’s a big, giant “THANK YOU!” from Freshout!
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