2015 Rock Hunt Semifinal Night 1 RECAP

At three hours before midnight at the Newport Blues Cafe in Newport, RI–in the state’s southern coast-commenced the “rocking on” as We Were Astronauts hit the stage with a slew of feel-good soft rock songs in a cozy, down-to-earth rhythm. Attired in tees, jeans and a whole lot of rock-n-roll, the group kept the rhythm going through about half-a-dozen songs–closing their performance with an energetic rock-hard song that couldn’t keep even the most stoic personality in the audience from tapping his feet.   Le Roxy Pro continued in the cavalcade–rocking the stage in some softer tunes in a quasi-ballad rhythm. With their placid music, rock-hard look, jean-attire, and acoustic rhythm, the crowd certainly got some soft cool permeation of that deep, sensitive rock. To close the competition portion of the night, The Skinny Millionaires delivered a very energetic performance sung by a clear lead singer who put that hard-rock scream in their performance. In denim, fiery energy and some hardcore electric guitar, lighting rhythm, The Skinny Millionaires did not disappoint in raising the roof–and perhaps even the intensity of the volume to a new high. Although all 3 bands gave solid performances, We Were Astronauts were announced as advancing to the Finals scheduled for April 4th at The Met. We Were Astronauts are now one of three finalists in the running to follow in the steps of your 2014 Rock Hunt winners the Rare Occasions, who, upon ending the night with a solid set, reminded us why they’re the rightful reigning champions. But how hard will the bands rock and how far and wide will the roof be raised remains to be heard until this Friday at Dusk on Night 2 of the 2015 Rock Hunt! Article by Albert Velasquez Photos courtesy of Bethany Anna Photography