Medford Brewing Company, Medford, MA
12/19/24
The New England Americana Fest is back and better than ever. With beer flowing and a SRO crowd, local music fills two stages at The Medford Brewing Company, with little pause in between the 19 acts here tonight; as sound techs and organizers work hard to keep the tunes pitch perfect.
With both rooms buzzing, I am able to catch the first three acts on the acoustic stage with Damian Israel of The Displayers kicking things off. Israel begins his set with a low key original tune as onlookers are just getting warmed up for the night. Israel ends his three song set with an upbeat version of “Oh Holy Night” as the crowd shows its appreciation to Israel’s thoughtful fusion of folk and pop that never overpower the holiday sentiment.
Next up is Nick Zaino, who is ready to keep the festive spirit alive. A bit more on the rock side, and with his guitar and harmonica on hand, Zaino pleases the crowd with three holiday songs, including a lively rendition of Tom Petty’s “It’s Christmas All Over Again.” Nick’s style is often described as a mix between The Band and Elvis Costello, with a bit of the Jayhawks thrown in, and tonight, he is clearly embracing his influences.
Seeing Replacing the DJ is up next, I am intrigued. Billed as a groovy, instrumental jazz duo, Boston music staple, Jay DiBiasio, of such bands as Three Day Threshold, and well-known bassist John Stump, dazzle the crowd with their acid-jazz vibes, including a funky interpretation of The Jackson Five’s “Never Can Say Goodbye.” I think they have a fun and successful future ahead of them as one of Boston’s newest bands.
As the crowd is growing thicker and the “standing room only” becomes less spacious, I am happy to see Boston’s local music scene alive and well. It’s great to see such a diverse and lively crowd come out to support the efforts of so many. (Gina Tempesta)