The Andrew J Brady Music Center
Cincinnati, OH. August 1, 2023
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Review By: Tom Rentz
The Andrew J Brady Music Center came alive with another extraordinary show, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music. The anticipation buzzed in the air as Indie sensation Paris Jackson stepped onto the spotlight as the first opener. Her debut album, Wilted, co-crafted with the talents of Manchester Orchestra's Andy Hull and Robert McDowell, had already earned her a devoted following in the grunge scene. The crowd erupted as she began with the mesmerizing "Lighthouse," a song that had introduced her unique sound to the world. The audience couldn't help but jump and dance to the infectious beats, and Paris effortlessly set the tone for what promised to be an outstanding evening of music in Cincinnati, Ohio.
With Paris's captivating performance still lingering in the air, the stage was set for the second artist on the lineup - the American hard rock quartet, Badflower. Having undergone a transformative journey from their early days as The Cartunes to their current identity, Badflower brought an electrifying energy to the stage. Lead singer/guitarist Josh Katz, guitarist Joey Morrow, bassist Alex Espiritu, and drummer Anthony Sonetti formed a tight-knit unit that perfectly complemented the spirit of the night.
From the moment Badflower kicked off with "Don't Hate Me," they had the audience hooked. Each song they played, including fan favorites like "Heroin" and "Ghost," only amplified the crowd's enthusiasm. The venue filled with fans eager to experience the main act - Incubus - and the energy in the air soared to electrifying levels.
Incubus, a band that had stood the test of time since their formation in 1991, finally graced the stage to thunderous cheers and ear-shattering screams. Brandon Boyd's soulful vocals, Mike Einziger's masterful guitar work, and José Pasillas' powerful drumming ignited a fire in the hearts of every spectator. With the addition of bassist Ben Kenney and keyboardist Chris Kilmore, Incubus unleashed an awe-inspiring performance that showcased their incredible journey as a multi-platinum selling band. Nicole Row is filling in for Ben Kenney on bass for the remainder of the tour as he is still recovering from brain surgery. We wish Ben a speedy recovery and miss seeing him on stage.
Their setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring hits like "Magic Medicine," "Nice to Know You," and "Glass," along with a heartfelt cover of The Beatles' timeless classic, "Come Together." The band's passion never faltered, and their camaraderie on stage was palpable, a testament to their years of performing together.
As the night approached its climax, the encore began with the iconic "Vitamin," and the crowd hung on to every note, reveling in the raw energy and musical brilliance. The show culminated with the crowd favorite, "Drive," leaving the audience in a state of euphoria, cherishing the memories they had just created.
Between the artists, fans on the barricades exchanged stories and excitement for Incubus, demonstrating the deep connection the band had forged with their loyal following. The night at The Andrew J Brady Music Center had transcended into a musical experience that left everyone filled with joy and an insatiable desire for more.
Setlist:
- Magic Medicine
- Privilege
- Anna Molly
- Just A Phase
- Nice To Know You
- Absolution Calling
- The Warmth
- Make Yourself
- Karma, Come Back
- Come Together (The Beatles Cover)
- Sick Sad Little World
- Echo
- Ain't You In? / (With A Snippet Of The Doors "Riders On The Storm")
- Pardon Me
- Stellar
- Dig
- Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd Cover)
Encore:
18. Vitamin
19. Drive
20. Dig (8-Bit Version)
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Setlist:
- Don't Hate Me
- Johnny Wants To Fight
- Fukboi
- Heroin
- The Jester
- Ghost
- Stalker
- 30
Photos By: Tom Rentz
Setlist:
- Lighthouse
- Hit Your Knees
- Just You
- My Friend Marcus (Manchester Orchestra Cover)
- Bandaid
- The Stain
- No Rain (Blind Melon Cover)
- Something