Despite the near freezing temperatures, hundreds of locals filled the bottom of main street for a free concert featuring Michael Franti and Spearhead this past Thursday, January 29th. This concert celebrated the opening of the World Cup, which commenced in Deer Valley on Wednesday. Main street has hosted many free concerts in the past, but this was by far the most attended and elaborate to date.
Michael Franti is noted for his peaceful activism and political messages infused in his reggae style music, especially in his new album "All Rebel Rockers" featuring an ode to president Barack Obama. Michael Franti, as usual, was accompanied by the band Spearhead and Jamaican vocalist Cherine Anderson.
The concert was opened by Anderson, who's bright energy and upbeat reggae numbers cheered up the freezing crowd. Michael Franti and Spearhead immediately followed with the grooving number 'Everyone Deserves Music', which got the massive crowd moving and dancing together.
They then continued playing a variety of songs ranging from the acoustic favorite 'Never Too Late' to the classic reggae sound of 'Light up Ya Lighter'. The set was impressive and fulfilling, including all of Franti's most popular and well known songs, as well as songs that were new to many of the fans.
Franti's performance was incredible, the music played was outstanding and he delivered a very personal performance. He was very friendly and connected with the large audience, dancing with fans and messing around with the band.
However, the encore was unquestionably the best part of the evening.
"This is the part of the night where I am supposed to get off stage and then come back on and play an encore. But it is too damn cold out here so I'm just going to play music!" Franti said at the end of the set.
He did exactly what he promised and just played music, mixing songs such as 'The Obama Song' and 'I Love You', playing continually without a pause. The crowd went wild by this funky mix of favorites and were left pleased by this unique and fun performance, despite the frostbite
Post new comment