One of my perks of covering so much live music is introducing people to new bands and fantastic performers. That’s what happened on March 31 at Webster Hall’s Marlin Room. I’ve known how amazing local groups Great Caesar and Parlour Tricks are for a couple years now, but seeing someone else experience them for the first time (or the first time live) is always extremely gratifying. This particular show was an exceptional showcase for both bands, as well as supporting acts Flint Eastwood and Danielle Grubbs (who I unfortunately missed but did catch when she joined Great Caesar for their rousing finale).
Great Caesar is one of New York City’s best kept secrets that hopefully isn’t kept for much longer. The infectious indie rock that this band produces is life affirming, and that comes across in spades live. Lead singer/guitarist John-Michael Parker is an exceptional songwriter, and the group’s latest effort Jackson’s Big Sky delivers the goods. The show was their EP release show, and they played everything to terrific reception. The entire band (Adam Glaser, Tom Sikes, Mike Farrell, Tom Stephens, Niki Morrissette) all feed off each other so effortlessly on stage. Their songs truly come to life live, and it starts with how sincere Parker is at front.
The set list included all of the new EP plus fan favorites like “Don’t Ask Me Why” and “Holiday.” The finest moment came last, however, when the ladies of Parlour Tricks and opener Grubbs came up to help the group play a memorable cover of Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie.” That performance made it hard to walk out of the venue without wanting some more music, but thankfully Great Caesar has several dates this summer supporting acts like Allen Stone and Indigo Girls. With more shows like this Webster Hall gig, they will be the ones headlining tours.
Before Great Caesar, Parlour Tricks and Flint Eastwood got the crowd ready for a good time. It’s been a pleasure watching Parlour tricks grow over the past three to four years, and by this point the group is entirely sure of themselves on stage. Lily Cato is a magnetic presence on stage that demands your attention. Her booming voice centers everything, and the group’s retro choreography combined with feel-good pop got everyone moving.
Flint Eastwood is a name I’ve heard (because it’s so freaking cool) but a group I unfortunately hadn’t seen. Thankfully I caught the tail end of their set, and I came away extremely impressed. Jax Anderson is dynamite on stage, and her pop is electrifying to say the least. This is a group to certainly keep an eye on.
Check out pictures from the set below.
Great Caesar
Parlour Tricks
Flint Eastwood
Join the conversation