2015 Rock Hunt Semifinal Night 2 RECAP

This is the debut show for Royal Street (formerly Sienna), a four piece band from just across the river. Before the show, drummer Brian Cauti tries to sum up his emotions in one word: “Thrilled? Excited?” Both seem like accurate depictions, and the band reflects that excitement in their performance. The audience starts dancing immediately as Viana Newton, the lead singer, entreats, “Come on guys, dance a little.” On “Treasure,” the band’s lead single, she cries, “Sing along!” and launches into the chorus. The band — especially in “Treasure” — is anthemic, aggressive, and plucky. The segues are smooth, and Viana owns the stage. “We don’t remember the goodbyes… back together, back forever,” she sings. It’s true: Royal Street is back.

Next up is Space Pony, a punk/alternative band from Providence… or Russia… or wherever (the drummer, Konstantine Kabanov is from Russia; vocalist/guitarist Alec Fornaciari and bassist Mike Landry are from various places around the US). They start off their set with headbanging and grunge and the audience immediately responds. Later, on “The Color Blue,” Alec opens with a riff almost reminiscent of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” revealing the band’s diverse influences. Their set is filled with great solos. At one point, the mic stand falls over, but a helpful audience member saves it. They finish by thanking the excellent audience.

Finally, Most Dangerous Men Alive, a six-piece band who came into thestation for a Homebru’d Session back in December, is up. Before they begin though, our MC Stuth asks them an all important question: what would they take with them to a desert island? “Beer!” is the first response. On second thought, someone in the band says, “Maybe a boat…” Both would be nice.   The venue is packed with MDMA fans– we see lots of shirts and beer koozies branded with the band’s logo. Lead singer Ben Carter’s mom (who is really quite lovely) dances in the front row. Their first song, “Tell My Family,” sets the mood. The second, “Til My Heart’s Content,” features a reggae-like syncopation. By the fourth and fifth songs, new member Nolan Driscoll (also of Dionysus Park Ranger) is tearing it up on the violin, which builds on the sound of the three guitars, bass, and drums. The final song — a punk number — sees two of the band members dancing in the audience. With that, Rock Hunt Semifinal Night 2 concluded. Just before midnight, Most Dangerous Men Alive were announced as the Finalists of Night 2, an all-around great night of music. Royal Street summed it up well when they explained, post-set, “Rock Hunt always bumps us up. It was a great show.”  Congratulations to all the bands, and especially to Most Dangerous Men Alive! Stay tuned for more Rock Hunt updates and get excited for the Rock Hunt finals, which will feature Most Dangerous Men Alive, We Were Astronauts (winners of last week’s show), and the winner of tonight’s show at The Parlour, Providence.   Rock Hunt Finals April 4th The Met 1005 Main St, Pawtucket Photos courtesy of Bethany Anna Photography