In the before times, when we were all a bit more lively, nothing was more uplifting than live music. Kevin, and the Jones family at large, are long time fans of Carbon Leaf, so naturally luck would have it that they would make their way through Rochester, the weekend before a to-be pandemic no less. Would could be done before other than to live another day to the full.
Their Band of Brothers tour brought Carbon Leaf to The Montage Music Hall in downtown Rochester. The Jones Family sends an invite and I graciously accept. Carbon Leaf is well traveled on our road trip playlists, this an opportunity not to be missed. We arrive early and the band manager and venue let me bring in my camera (it’s a hit or miss thing these days).
I love little venues like this, they don’t always attract the biggest names but they do actually have some sleeper stars roll through. Rochester has a few little places like this; some are a bit longer for this world than others, but that’s a different matter for the most part. Seeing a band I love on a stage like this was an unbelievable experiance.
Describing their style is kind of tough since it comes in a little thicker on some albums than others. I’ve seen described a few different ways online, but I believe the label “Celtic Indie Rock” is probably the most accurate, with Celtic elements dipping in and out over their discography.
It’s all pretty solid and enjoyable, but Indian Summer is particularly great.
Naturally, the band crushes it, and they play all their hits. We jam along like we’re going 70 on I-90. When it’s all said and done, the Family Jones takes off in a rush while I dilly-dally around the venue. Moments after they leave the band comes to the bar to meet and great with the crowd. Kevin will remain eternally jealous.
