One of the most distinctive voices of 90’s alternative rock was Ed Kowalczyk of Live. Leading the band to a number of chart topping songs, Kowalczyk’s mark on music is undeniable as he marches on with a solo career that began back in 2009. Now standing alone as a singer-songwriter, he has released three studio albums, including his most recent The Flood and The Mercy in 2013, and toured heavily around the world. Treating audiences to a balance of his new songs along with Live classics during his most recent string of tour dates in 2014, Kowalczyk entices audiences celebrating the twentieth anniversary of Throwing Copper, performing the record in its entirety. Making Long Island, NY a regular stop over the years, Kowalczyk made an appearance at The Paramount in Huntington on Saturday August 2nd. Greeted by a large crowd of long-time fans from around the area, as well as some which drove all the way from his home town of York, PA, the stage was set for one exciting evening again.
Opening in support first, was New Englander Adam Jensen. Initially apart of the band Mission Hill, Jensen’s talents run deep as a producer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Mixing catchy melodies and a soothing voice, Jensen performed his thoughtful songs with confidence including tracks titled “Dead Man Walking”, “Numb”, and “Monsters”. Expressing himself and warming up the audience with ice-breaking conversation, the biggest draw of Jensen was his wonderfully composed songs that are difficult to forget. His newest EP Behind The Man (2013) is out now and highly recommended giving a listen.
Adding a bit of diversity to the night was New Jersey based band The Karma Killers. Formed a few short years ago, the band has been working hard on their own unique style and sound while performing around the Tri-State area. Consisting of Micky James (vocals/guitar), Mango (bass/vocals), Billy “Noise” Stevens (lead guitar/vocals), and Josh Grigsby (drums); the band took the stage with plenty of flare and intrigue surrounding them. Jump starting with tunes that have the energy of 80’s pop rock and grit of garage rock, this band owned the stage. James exhibited excellent showmanship, moving around at ease inspiring the audience to move as well. The party like vibes they projected were spectacular and proved this band’s ceiling is very high for success. Mixing in a cover of the classic Tears for Fears song “Mad World”, The Karma Killers left a lasting impression no one could deny.
After two talented opening acts, without further ado, it was time for Kowalczyk to grace the stage. Wasting no time to get the blood of spectators flowing he belted out “The Dam at Otter Creek”. Greeted by cheers and praise, Kowalczyk graciously and humbly smiled and thanked the room as he moved along with Throwing Copper in track order bringing the songs to life with strong vocals and three dimensional instrumentation. Of course hits like “Selling The Drama”, “I Alone”, “Lightening Crashes”, and “All Over You” had everyone singing and dancing along, but it was other deeper tracks like “Pillar of Davidson” and “White, Discussion” which were big moments for everyone. Keeping his composure all the way through album closer “Horse”, Kowalczyk fed off the rooms energy and performed the album note for note flawlessly.
Completely satisfied thus far, the audience applauded loudly and Kowalczyk rattled out an encore of solo and Live material including his two newer tracks “Seven” and “All I Wanted”. Retaining the same energy as his Live material, Kowalczyk had much more than a few singing along and perhaps interested a good amount of others to check out his newest record. Concluding with “The Dolphin’s Cry” was the perfect touch to a well paced and memorable performance. Kowalczyk is more than the voice of Live, he is a musician which still has a great deal to offer two plus decades into his career. Catch him on this grand twentieth anniversary celebration tour before it is too late.
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