SHOW REVIEW BY TY JOHNS
PHOTOS BY ANDRE ACUNA
The line wrapped around three city blocks was the first indication that I was in for something special. The excited chatter only bolstered that fact; the palpable anticipation floated about the fans, eagerly awaiting entry.
People donning face paint, some with a singular eye opened or closed on the center of their foreheads, outfits designed around a skeleton motif in homage to the artist, and an overall hip, refreshing, and overwhelmingly creative aura held only a fraction of the foreshadowing for the incredible performance Will Wood and the tapeworms would supply.
The concert was held at the Archer Music Hall in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a very clean and highly accessible venue. With a unique sound (a blend of do-wop and New Orleans jazz )and a captivating visual performance, Will Wood (vocalist and pianist) commanded the crowd, having their full attention the whole time.
His way of speaking was very impactful in both tone and message, stating things such as “no one has ever made a better person by making their life worse.” With Matthew Berger on saxophone, DJ Scully on bass, and back-up vocals, Mario Conte on drums, and Mike Bottiglieri on guitar, the chemistry between band mates complemented the upbeat swing tune as they played their respective instruments through the crowd and engaged with fans over the barrier.
The show itself was incredible; I found myself unable to stop smiling watching them move around the stage and hear the crowd parroting the music back at them. If you find yourself in an area where this band is performing, do yourself a favor and attend; it is truly something you need to experience for yourself.
