COZY Throne – LIVE AT HUTGHI'S AT THE NOOK
By Kerri Nelson
Cozy Throne live at Hutghi's at the Nook in Westfield, MA
Photographing and reviewing big shows is always exciting, but there's a unique thrill in capturing the essence of the local music scene. It's a journey full of surprises, as hidden gems are often found nestled among random streets, between laundry mats and nail salons. These dark bars ooze character, perfectly matching the energy and individuality of the bands that grace their stages.
On this particular Saturday night at Hutghi's at The Nook in Westfield, MA, the atmosphere perfectly aligns with its famous reputation. As you walk in, you're greeted with the familiar sights of a bustling bar scene. However, your journey takes you deeper into the facility, to a dimly lit chamber hidden in the back. Inside this intimate space, a small stage awaits you, adorned with a handful of dappled spotlights and a tiny disco ball sparkling above. It is a scene meticulously crafted, embodying the essence of perfection.
I was there to capture moments of the local New Hampshire based band known as Cozy Throne. Curious about their species? If you ask, Cozy Throne they will likely emphasize their commitment to authenticity and roots in all aspects of their art. They see themselves as “4 dudes in a graffiti basement trying stuff out and seeing if it works”. Honestly, that description perfectly encapsulates Harry MacCallum on bass, Ben Farrari on guitar, Lindy Snell on drums and Amara Phelps on vocals.
Trying to limit them to a specific genre would be unfair. their versatility defies such categorization. I appreciate that when it comes to defining their species, opinions vary widely. The show they gave that Saturday, with their unique line-up, was no exception.
Witness GOzy ThroneIn his performances, one cannot resist the urge to dance, smile and simply enjoy the moment. I hear Cozy Throne often takes me back to high school/college. I'm not sure if it's because their music evokes the pure happiness we all felt in our younger days or if it's the strong female presence that takes me back. Amara Phelps embodies his energy Cozy Throne.
She is one of the happiest, kindest and most incredibly talented souls you will ever meet. With her vibrant hair and impeccably stylish ensembles, she commands the stage with a voice that stands out as uniquely strong and her own. Maybe it's the comparison to iconic female rockers like Deloris O'Riordan, Shirley Manson, Gwen Stefani and Lzzy Hale that resonates and takes me back.
Phelps' voice doesn't necessarily sound like those iconic female rockers. rather it embodies his spirit Cozy Throne, just like the incredible powerhouse women I mentioned above do in their respective bands. Phelps leverages the same stage presence and undeniable command, making her an integral part of Cozy Throne.
However, Cozy Throne he's more than just Phelps. Lindy Snell's dynamic drumming provides the band's heartbeat, driving each song forward with precision and energy. Ben Farrari's soulful guitar solos add layers of depth and emotion, while Harry MacCallum's bass lines form the solid foundation upon which the band's sound is built. Together, their individual talents come together into a unified force, creating a sound that is undeniably Cozy Throne. Every solo, beat and bass line blends seamlessly, bringing their music to life in a way that captivates the audience and leaves a lasting impression.
The band set the tone with their opening song, “Paste,” from their “Sales Pitch” album. It's a high energy track with a catchy chorus that gets stuck in your head. The bassline serves as a perfect introduction, leading into Phelps' vocals, which complement the infectious guitar riffs with varying ranges and tempos.
His energetic tone Cozy ThroneThe set continues with the debut of their brand new song, “Say What You Wanted,” along with favorites like “Gimme a Moment” and “Victim of Circumstance,” which delves into the theme of impostor syndrome, a topic that Phelps deals. on stage, resonating with many listeners. Throughout their performance, Cozy Throne effortlessly commanding the stage, captivating audiences of all sizes with their courage and energy.
As the set drew to a close, Cozy Throne made a lasting impression with “Panic Pack,” a high-energy finale that showcased Farrari's impressive guitar skills. Their performances consistently engage the audience, ensuring full immersion in the music from start to finish.
Throughout Cozy ThroneHis performance, the rhythmic foundation laid by Lindy Snell on drums and Harry MacCallum on bass was impressive. Snell's drumming provided the driving force behind each song, seamlessly transitioning between beats and adding punchy fills that kept the energy high and always with a smile on her face.
MacCallum's bass lines were equally remarkable, anchoring the band's sound with precision and groove and the energy they exude when playing. It's a lot of fun to photograph. Together, Snell and MacCallum formed a formidable pace section that provided the backbone for Cozy Throneeclectic mix of his songs, proving their versatility and musicality
While Cozy Throne known for their energetic performances, they also excel in slower songs. I'd be remiss if I didn't recommend catching them play 'August', a song mainly driven by Farrari on guitar and vocals. This beautifully crafted song resonates with many and showcases Farrari's talent. The entire band joins in for the final 30 seconds, adding to its emotional impact.
Sandwiched between bands like Green Street Fiends, a metal/ska band, Crisis Crayons, a traditional ska band, and Recent History, an alternative dance rock pop band, Cozy Throne they maintained their high energy throughout the night. Their ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and electrifying performance is a testament to their talent and passion for music.
From the infectious energy of Amara Phelps to the powerhouse rhythm section provided by Lindy Snell, Harry MacCallum and Ben Farrari, each member brings something unique to the table, creating a musical journey that captivates and inspires. Whether you're a longtime fan or experiencing their music for the first time, a night of Cozy Throne promises to be an unforgettable experience full of joy, energy and pure musical bliss.
You can catch Cozy Throne live in Portsmouth, NH this coming Saturday, April 13th at The Press Room. They'll also be performing at UNH on April 20th, and if you're a taco lover, don't miss their appearance at The Shaskeen in Manchester on May 2nd. It will definitely be a fantastic experience!
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