It was another hot day in NH. The beach goers/concert goers had packed the beach during the day and as the set were now ready to see Taproot hit the stage with special guest Revision and Fifth Freedom.
First band to perform for the evening was Lewiston, ME natives Revision. The band consists of Jason Dow (drums), Cody Anderson (bass/vocals), and Zac Anderson (guitar/vocals.) With a focus on original music from the very beginning REVISION is currently in the process of completing their first full length album, coming in 2024.
As the fans were entering the venue they hit the stage. They played a mix of songs some the audience knew and sang along with the others they just watched and listened as the band played through their set. The fans enjoyed the band and cheered and clapped.
The next band to hit the stage was a high octane American rock band based in Portland Maine Fifth Freedom. The four-piece band brings a modern attack to classically rooted rock with a bluesy swagger while maintaining the dynamics of contemporary hard rock and metal, making them a favorite of active rock, southern rock, and metal fans alike.
In 2014, Fifth Freedom Released their self-titled debut record which debuted at No.1 at Bull Moose music (a 12 location New England record store chain), The band embarked on a two-month tour across the United States supporting the internationally known group Black Stone Cherry which earned the band national attention and airplay on both college and terrestrial radio.
Long-time members Alan Jones (vocals/guitars) and Gary Marston (drums) stayed the course while the band endured some line-up changes. In 2015, the band was joined by Ian Dyer on guitars and Seth McClellan on bass which activated a new energy and focus within Fifth Freedom that transposed into powerful new songs and live performances.
The band released their sophomore full-length effort “Heartbreak & Hellfire” on July 26, 2016. The album debuted at #58 on the international iTunes New Rock Album chart. In New England, the album remained #1 on the weekly Top 15 local selling releases chart at Bull Moose Music (A 12 location New England Record store chain) for 10 weeks and achieved the top selling local record of the year.
They played a mix of songs from their old stuff to their new stuff and the crowd was loving every second. They put on an amazing show and showed how talented they are as musicians.
Finally, the band everyone came to see was ready to hit the stage. Taproot an American alternative metal band from Ann Arbor, Michigan, formed in 1997. They are best known for their hit single “Poem”, which peaked at No. 5 on the Mainstream Rock chart in 2002. Taproot originally consisted of vocalist/guitarist Stephen Richards, bassist Phil Lipscomb, drummer Jarrod Montague, and guitarist Mike DeWolf. After a few independent releases in the late 1990s, they signed to the major label Atlantic Records in 1999. Their debut album on the label, Gift, was released in 2000.
In February 2023, Taproot announced that they would be releasing a new album, titled SC\SSRS, on September 29. This would be their first studio release since 2012’s The Episodes.
The first single from SC\SSRS, titled “V\CT\M \ PLAY”, was released on April 6, 2023. The band stated that Montague had rejoined the lineup, although Coughlin planned on playing sporadic one-off shows in Montague’s absence. In addition, it was announced that Taylor Roberts had replaced Lizzio on guitar.
On August 9, 2023, Taproot issued the single “No One Else to Blame”. Another track, “Favourite Song”, came out in September. SC\SSRS was officially released on September 29, via the independent label THC Music.
They brought an electrifying energy, delivering a night of raw intensity and nostalgic vibes for their dedicated fans. The venue buzzed with anticipation as the band took the stage amidst cheers and applause, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Opening with their classic hits, Taproot immediately captured the crowd with their signature blend of heavy riffs and introspective lyrics. Songs like “Poem” and “I” resonated through the venue, eliciting passionate sing-alongs and headbanging from the audience.
Lead vocalist Stephen Richards commanded the stage with his powerful vocals, effortlessly transitioning from melodic hooks to guttural screams, showcasing the band’s versatility and emotional depth. His interaction with the crowd created a genuine connection, making everyone feel like a part of the experience.
Guitarist Mike DeWolf and bassist Phil Lipscomb kept the momentum going with their tight rhythms and intricate solos, while drummer Dave Coughlin provided a solid backbone to the band’s dynamic sound. Their collective chemistry was palpable, reflecting years of musical synergy and shared passion.
Throughout the set, Taproot seamlessly navigated between their heavier tracks and more introspective pieces, such as “Mine” and “Lost in the Woods,” demonstrating their ability to evoke both adrenaline and introspection in their listeners. Each song was delivered with precision and emotion, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
As the concert reached its peak, the band unleashed their anthemic hits like “Again & Again” and “Fractured (Everything I Said Was True),” igniting a frenzy of moshing and crowd surfing. The energy in the room was electric, fueled by the band’s infectious enthusiasm and the fans’ unwavering devotion.
Taproot closed the night with an encore that left the audience craving more, a testament to their enduring influence and musical prowess. As the final chords faded away, it was clear that Taproot’s performance had not only entertained but also inspired all those fortunate enough to witness it.
In conclusion, Taproot’s concert was a powerhouse display of talent and passion, reaffirming their status as pioneers of the alternative metal genre. Their ability to connect with their audience on such a profound level ensured that this night would be remembered long after the last note had faded into the air.
Taproot
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Fifth Freedom
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Revision
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Wally’s
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