It's always bittersweet saying goodbye to Summer and hello to fall. You won't hear a single complaint out of me about a break in the heat, but I may reflect on my lack of watersports for the year while promising I'll make up for it next year. Fall, however, is exciting time of year packed with the Hallmark Gauntlet - Halloween, Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Christmas (or whatever alternatives your lifestyle provides). For us at Amp it is extra bitter and less sweet because it marks the end of our FREE LIVE MUSIC SEASON.
The Experiment and the I-20 Horns always brings a little bit of Summer back and it feels like a way to forestall the inevitable.
Donned in their trademark Hawaiin shirts, all 7 of the crew took to the Bud Light Stage to bring good vibes and fun times. Their shows are always an interesting juxtaposition of different and not-so-different. When it comes to song choice, it's not so different. Popular sing-a-long favorites that crush in small bars and giant arenas like "Brown Eyed Girl", "Sweet Caroline", and "Superstitious" are always a staple.
What really sets this Experiment apart is its tremendous horns section. Yea, you probably hear Stevie Wonders "Superstitious" often at live events, rarely with piano, but almost never with a bellowing horns section. This is the thing that always makes the experiment just plain fun.
Another interesting contrast to the band is Stephen Kneece - the lead guitarist and lead vocalist. He may look like a nepo-baby on the stage, ingratiated to the band by one of his uncles or even his father, but truth be told, he is just a newer model of an older man. He truly loves the oldies and makes for a perfect fit. The horns create an unmistakable dynamic for the band, but they clearly benefit from a "Smooth" Santana solo on the electric guitar.
The audience is a similar composition with even more diversity across the spectrum. Songs like "Proud Mary", "Do you Love Me?", and "Mustang Sally" bring everyone from every generation to the dance floor. Kids are dancing hearing the song for the first time, while older generations are dancing to the classics their parents raised them on, and even older generations are dancing to the songs they remember being popular when they were younger themselves. If the experiment is one asking if you can speak to all ages at once - the answer is demonstrably yes.
At least while they command the stage.
It's been pretty amazing to watch The Experiment's first performance at Amp years ago on a misty, chilly evening with 30 some folks (mostly family) in attendance, grow and become one of Aiken's favorite bands to make them feel good. They consistently draw huge, engaged, and energetic crowds and always bring an easy-going summer feeling with them.
Check Out The Gallery
***Note from Moose***
The pics that make you wonder, "what was he thinking?" -
They are intentional. They make me laugh. I want to call them an inside joke, but I'm not sure I've let him in on it yet. Guess I have now!
LAST SHOW THIS YEAR on the Bud Light Stage - DAZR
At the heart of DAZR's performance is their passion for the raw, unbridled power of rock n roll. Influenced by the legendary sounds of the 60s, 70s, and 80s, this young and energetic group infuses these iconic eras of music with an edge.
From the driving beats of classic anthems to the heart-pounding intensity of original compositions, DAZR delivers a performance that will transport the audience to the golden age of rock.
Shredding guitar riffs and an unstoppable wave of energy captivates every soul in the room. Their unique blend of original compositions seamlessly integrates into the setlist, paying homage to the timeless sound of classic rock.
DAZR showcases their electrifying performances at large festivals, live music venues, fraternities, and private events. Their original music is available on all streaming platforms and promises to invigorate fans with their passion for the raw power of rock 'n' roll. - [www.thebanddazr.com]
DAZR - HOLD THE LINE
DAZR's Official Video that just hit youtube 2 weeks ago!
Save while shopping Downtown this Weekend!
The Red Door has partnered with SO MANY Downtown Businesses this weekend - 21 in fact, to reward Aiken people for doing what Aiken people love to do -
SHOP DOWNTOWN!
For simply supporting local business - local business is going to support you back. Shop at any of these 21 local downtown businesses this weekend to get $5 off at The Red Door!
October 31st - November 2nd!
Ginger Bee
Aiken Dry Goods
Downtown Hydration
Bravefriend Apparel and Design
Beyond Bijoux
White Rose Eclectics
Caroline's Boutique
Downtown Dog
Big House Outpost
New Moon Cafe
Kels and Faith
Little Red Fox Shop
Vampire Penguin
Elevate Energy and Nutrition
Return Engagement
Flawless Glow: Cosmetic Studio and Spa
Moon Beans Coffee
Iron Gate Candles and Co
Tumbleweed Western Outfitter
Aiken Embroidery and Design
True Aiken
It's easy to get caught up in our routines shopping at all of the big box stores for your groceries, kid's clothes, work supplies etc.
You may have just read that list and realized you hadn't meandered our charming Downtown in a while and that you didn't even recognize some of the new stores on the list.
The deal starts Thursday on Halloween. Get an early start on the FINAL AMP THE ALLEY of the season and pop in a couple of our lovely local shops.
Local shops require local support, and without that this list will be different the next time you see it.
Shop Local. Support Local. Let Local Support You.
New Hours for The Red Door
After being asked since the opening when they would be opening for lunch, The Red Door has finally made the adjustments and will now offer lunches from Wednesday - Saturday. The New Hours will begin on November 6th.
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