JASON MRAZ / RIPE LIVE – HARTFORD HEALTHCARE AMPHITHEATER

JASON MRAZ / RIPE LIVE – HARTFORD HEALTHCARE AMPHITHEATER

By Ralph Beauchamp

Jason Mraz brought his Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride tour to a sold out Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater in Bridgeport on a stormy Friday night. Mraz performed with his extensive touring band “The Superband”. He also brought in Boston's Ripe for immediate support. The night shared positive vibes and incredible music from both bands.

This was also a first for me. I finally met the newest member of our team, Kerri Nelson. Kerri is an amazing photographer and a terrific writer and in the short time working with AMP has already made spectacular contributions. We sat in the parking lot talking about music and dating. I think I enjoyed our time together as much as the great music we were about to hear.

Ripe is a funk/rock/groove ensemble from Boston. The band consists of Robbie Wulfsohn (vocals). Jon Becker (Guitar), Sampson Hellerman (Drums) and Calvin Barthel (Trombone). Additionally, there are two touring members. We last featured them in a post in August 2021. Even then, we knew they were destined for great things. Their latest full length is the compact Shiny eyes in 2023.

Ripe started the show a little early. I guess the weather forecast was a factor since the storms were scheduled to hit later in the evening. The amphitheater is an outdoor space with a canvas roof. Their short set was full of uplifting jams and heartfelt beats. From the start, the band delivered a spicy hot vibe. Wulfsohn was a delight to watch. All his humiliation was excited. He looked genuinely grateful to be in this scene. His spirit was contagious. At one point he stated: “Tonight, my 14-year-old self would freak out, but my 30-year-old self hides it really well.”

Photos by Kerri Nelson

The band played several of their smash hits including 'First Time Feeling' and 'Goon Squad'. Throughout Wulfsohn was energetic and lively. The band delivered absolutely soulful beats and the crowd responded well to every song. Many were on their feet, dancing away. The people next to me were singing throughout the set. The Kinks' cover of 'Lola' was a huge hit. Tonight, Ripe was hypnotic and everyone seemed to really enjoy their daring appearance. It's only a matter of time before Ripe garners massive appeal. They really deserve it.

Jason Mraz it is consistently a blessing in relation to the gloom in today's world. His positive outlook on life instills a protective shield that surrounds the hearts of his listeners from the terror of the outside world. of Mraz The music is full of life and rich texture and envelops his devotees in a heavenly glow. His band called “The Superband” was amazing. Every musician was incredible. Also, everyone was able to turn off the instruments which enhanced the whole experience. Band members included Grooveline Horns, Raining Jane (who are partners with Mraz) and Molly Miller on guitar. Additionally, longtime tour musicians Daniel Mandelman (Keys) and Tamir Barzilay (Drums) were present.

Mraz opened the night with “Getting Started,” the opening track from his latest full-length Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride released last year. From the start, the entire venue was on its feet, clapping and rocking to the groove. “Feel Good Too” continued the ecstasy ride. The band was in high gear. MrazThe smash hit “Remedy (I Won't Worry)” followed. He told the audience the story behind the song. When his friend, Charlie, was diagnosed with a potentially fatal condition, he said Mraz that “he will not worry his life away”. His positivity infused the entire city. And luckily, they're still around. The crowd loved it.

All afternoon, Mraz brought his audience closer. His little elements in life endeared him at home. Another part of life he talked about was his constant positive attitude. He explained that sometimes he comes from a dark place, but uses his music to pull himself together. Followed by the medley of 'Good Old Daze', '3 Things', 'Be Where Your Feet Are' and 'Traveler/Make It Mine'.

Photos by Kerri Nelson

“Butterfly” had beautiful visuals on the big screen behind the band. Other MrazThe hit of “Lucky” had the audience in total delight, especially when it somewhat hinted that Colbie Caillat was in the house. She sang the duet with Mia Bloomfield from Raining Jane. “Little Time” and “Tancakes and Butter” by Mysterious it was expected.

After '93 Million Miles' and 'I Won't Give Up', Mraz bring out the big guns. He closed with “You Might Like It,” an energetic cover of “I'm Yours” and his recent smash hit, “I Feel Like Dancing.” Checking his previous show online, I noticed that he usually came back with 2-3 encore songs, but I'm sure the weather played a big part in the evening's festivities and the show was over.

I have to single out one particular member of the band. Mona Tavakoli from Raining Jane was absolutely fantastic. Whether on drums, percussion or background vocals, it was a storm. Her intensity was through the roof. There were times when you couldn't take your eyes off her.

Both Jason Mraz and Ripe delivered powerful performances that took the audience to heavenly heights. Don't miss out when they come to your town or city either.

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