Writing and Photography by Bobby Talamine Edited by Fiza Javid Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island Chicago 8/15/23 With Ghost, currently in the mix with their summer "Re- Imperatour U.S.A.- I knew something was up when I arrived a bit early- Apparently I wasn't the only one. They came in droves, earlier than me. That line, not even for the G.A. pit- we're talking reserved seating- by my estimation- easily a half mile long, and this even on a Tuesday evening in Chicago. Talk about a solid fanbase! And everything about their show is still a spectacle. A small bit has changed since their last run through the states, back in February of 2022, with a stop at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont. The one thing that I found more appealing this time around was the runway jutting out through the main floor. The height was a bit of a nuisance back in February- like six feet or so. And the length of the runway looked like to be cut in half, which also made things more appealing photography wise, with the hopes of getting the bulk of the nameless ghouls in the frame, along with the gorgeous stained glass windows backdrop, and of course the one and only Tobias Forge, aka "Papa Emeritus", amongst many other titles and incarnations. All of this helps in my opinion, especially with more active main floor crowd involvement- like the closer to the audience, the better. What a show I tell ya. The three heavy hitter/ life is a party mainstays, after the volley of "Klara stjarnor"- a delicate Jan Johansson instrumental, followed by "Miserere mei, Deus"- a choral Gregorio Allegri song, and then the instrumental from Ghost- "Imperium", which has the stage shrouded in a gigantic white curtain- Then comes the trifecta of ripping good tunes- "Kaisarion", into "Rats", into "From the Pinnacle to the Pit". So okay, the same openers from back in 2022. But who cares? These songs are strong, hell bent. Meant for worshipping and camaraderie followed by communal party, all presented right off the bat with three nameless ghouls parked at the lip of the runway stage center- letting it rip with guitar, bass, and more guitar. Followed by Papa blending in and then holding court, all confident, all mindful of empowerment and might. And the screams and shouts from the lip of the barricade- virtually every vantage point- for those three banger / crushing songs, it didn't let up one bit, like it was a Friday or Saturday night, not a Tuesday night. Add lots and lots of theatricality, and you have one very memorable show. Some twenty or so songs total, with nary a letup. And maybe that's why this go around with Ghost is what's needed and hearty- that they've worked out the kinks a bit, took a deep breath, made some conscientious changes, and then decided to give it a go- pedal to the metal. That the night was absolutely perfect along the lakefront just added more charm and mystique to the spectacle, and the gorgeous saturation of colors and schematic no matter what the vantage point when looking at the stage. Even when writing this from memory, I feel caffeinated and full of energy, like the show ended just minutes ago, and not well over 14 hours. It doesn't matter, especially with Papa and the nameless ghouls, and the varied costume changes of notable notoriety, specifically Papa's various versions thereof of delighted intent. Yes, there's a lot to take in with the hierarchy of all things "Papa", as is well and good to immerse in the minute details, if you're into that sorta thing. I'm sure Tobias relishes the deep dive amongst his gigantic fanbase as well. The songs have heft, even from the early days to present. The lyrics and overall mood represent that as well. Everything in relation to Ghost, and overall presentation, is just so well thought out. I mean think about it: right now we're on the incarnation of "Papa Emeritus IV" with all the luster and mystery, equal to the first. Why wouldn't you want to eat that up, knowing full well that there's going to be a rather complicated storyline, with a plethora of clues, followed by mystery. Makes you relish what else Papa has up his sleeve, going forward into the unknown of otherworldly. Hard to not get lost in all of this while attempting to write a decent review, and doing your best to keep it simple. No matter- equal to the live performance, is the actual cast of characters and evolvement as well. And to have the second leg in the states with the mighty Amon Amarth just adds more onslaught punishment to the mix as well, what with a gigantic set, with 15 foot pillars of Vikings guarding the flanks of stage left and stage right, a drum kit on a riser of massive viking horns, and ending with a gigantic mythical dragon stage left, during the song "Twilight of the Thunder God', with lead vocalist Johan Hegg beating it down with a massive viking hammer. All the stuff of mystical fantasy, followed by wicked and punishing melodic death metal. Cool that they let us photographers photograph their set after the first three from the pit- if anything getting a chance to document "Put Your Back Into the Oar", where, by command of Johan Hegg, you sit down on the main floor of the pit, and make like your rowing a massive viking ship to uncharted territory, or better yet, showing the power at sea, to intimidate, to take command thereof. What a sight to see that, virtually the entire main floor pit in on the viking rowing action. So we have two bands, both equal to the task to put on a show, not relegated to blasé this, blasé that. No no no- this is first rate big things spectacle, first rate slam dunk. Some eighteen or so dates remain in the states, heading a bit south, and of course west, ending in Englewood California, on September 12th. Go see? What do you think? Don't be nutty. Just go. Bobby Talamine - JBTV Music Television Chicago Ghost, Tobias Forge, Nameless Ghouls, JBTV Music Television, Fiza Javid, Bobby Talamine, Amon Amarth
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Photography by Bobby Talamine Writing and Editing by Fiza Javid Grant Park - Sunday August 6, 2023 I need to throw a Happy Fit for the final day of Lollapalooza 2023. I can't stop, I'm addicted to the shindig. Although the weather had us all tip toeing around Grant Park, we squished our shoes in determination for the pure adrenaline of this final day. JBTV followed many incredible artists that were purely worth the photo highlights: Ingrid Andress, the Happy Fits, Matroda, DEHD, Magdalena Bay, Mt. Joy, Afrojack, A Boogie with Da Hoodie, and the ultimate spice in the form of Red Hot Chili Peppers, who officially saw the return of legendary guitarist John Frusciante a year ago. We wishfully drank up the moments of Ingrid Andress as she performed her incredible hits "Wishful Drinking" and "Feel Like This" prior to the adrenaline that kicked in for the excitement of the Happy Fits. She was truly a joyful start to the day and she showcased just how easily country music can fit into the Lolla atmosphere. Then through the mudslide we saw fans rush over to the Happy Fits. These rockstars, at first glance, could convince you that classical rock is their primary focus, however, their set proved just how much more original they are than that. The JBTV alums came to the JBTV studio in 2019 where they were already major showstoppers. Watching frontman Calvin Langman light up this stage from his soul, as he intensely strummed the cello, was like a dose of caffeine hitting the audience. Luke Davis's passion on the drum kit matched this level of joy. They were having so much fun up there and man we the audience were having just as much fun being able to witness this phenomenon. Particularly with "Heart of a Dancer" and "Grow Back" came on, every single song felt like a grand finale, with a set you would have never wished come to a conclusion. The only mistake is that Lollapalooza didn't put them on the T-Mobile stage prior to Red Hot Chili Peppers, since their virtuoso musicality and originality would make them the ultimate opener for RHCP. At this rate, I wouldn't be surprised if RHCP opened for them. These are true artists we are witnessing shoot to the moon. Raina Mullen was rocking out in guitar. We definitely missed Ross Monteith, but to see the charisma and true talent that was Raina Mullen (who is also the guitarist and singer for philly based band Ghost Light) was what made this set all the more perfect. Before I end up writing a dissertation, I'll sing my praises. Dehd came in full attitude and made a wave of new fans, they had the greatest showmanship. Mt. Joy was the ultimate mushroom trip with their purely mesmerizing kaleidoscope backdrop hypnotizing us to their music. Their covers of "Ain't No Sunshine" by Bill Withers and "Crazy" by Gnarles Barkley added to this ultimate vibe. Magdalena Bay busted out a keytar and was in her element through her incredible set. Afrojack remixed us into oblivion as he got the party into full swing closer to the evening, with his major hit "Turn Up The Speakers" and "Rock the House" getting everyone moving. The Boogie with Da Hoodie was a true surprise. The rapper had the audience bopping in unison and screaming along like no other. Then there was the anticipation for Red Hot Chili Peppers. That hour waiting for them to come on felt like a lifetime due to the excitement. Nothing is more magical than a RHCP jam session. What truly sets them apart as live performers from the entire world of legends they are part of is their ability to jam out in front of a live audience. Their jams along tailors a truly unique experience for their fans that doesn't just repeat what they recorded on to their albums, along with the unpredictability of what any one of them might say, Flea burst into handstands at moments along with a pirate theme spoken word section that had our eyes truly locked with fervor. And just when you think they might only just play their funky hits like "Can't Stop" or "Dani California" they bust out the vibing jam session of a lifetime. The intro to "Californication" had a three-minute showcase of John Frusciante playing against Flea's bass. They faced each other and just made pure magic happen. This was like watching a songwriting session right before our eyes and showed...this band didn't copy anyone. They were never a gimmick. They were destined to be exactly who they are: pure musicians through and through. Frusciante showcased just how iconic and mastermind he is with melody, and Flea is a bass-line mastermind. Combine that with the vocals and forever rock hard persona of Anthony and the endless cardio bashing drum skills of Chad, and its no wonder these guys will never go out of style, ever. They proved that they couldn't pretend. They hear the music. Their rehearsals are out of this world, and we are lucky enough we get to be in on it. Thats the feeling they invoke, along with the intensive history their breakups and emotions reunions have given us. It is a gift that they were able to return to Lollapalooza and give Chicago the performance of a lifetime, which crazy enough, included a cover of the Clash's "London Calling" as an intro to "Right on Time." This was a season that will never be forgotten. While next year will also give us a highly anticipated 3 part docuseries of the story of Lollapalooza on Paramount+, we will be eager for that lineup ASAP. Until next year! Is it 2024 yet? Signing off. Fiza Javid - JBTV Music Television Lollapalooza, 2023, Bobby Talamine, Fiza Javid, JBTV Music Television, The Happy Fits, Mt Joy, Boogie With the Hoodie, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Anthony Kiedis, Chas, Flea, John Frusciante, Chicago, Live MusicPhotography by Bobby Talamine Writing and Editing by Fiza Javid Grant Park - Saturday August 5, 2023 We had all the elements working together on this fine Saturday of Lollapalooza day three. Who know water can go with electricity? That is, if the electricity comes with a solid day of electronic music. The rain didn't dampen the festival in the slightest and we were ready to go. We were so excited for the upcoming Odesza headliner which we knew would also bring the fire. The vibes through the air were palpable. This also included the pure excitement for Tomorrow X Together who was surely going to own the night. Major photo highlights of day three that continue to give us the elements and awaken our senses: Suki Waterhouse, Solardo, Destroy Lonely, Nora En Pure, Maggie Rogers, Morgan Wade, Alex G, Tomorrow X Together and Pusha T. Tomorrow x Together took an elemental day to another planet. They opened with "0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You)." Not only did they do "Happy Fools" and "Players" with Coi Leray, they performed a new version of their Jonas Brothers cover "Do it Like That." They closed with "Sugar Rush Tide" The entire set was a space like spectacular feat to watch. They shined like stars as they danced across the stage and the audience sang along the lyrics in the backdrop. We couldn't thank them enough. Odesza returned to Lolla after their incredible performance in 2018 that truly hallmarked as a top ten in the history of Lollapalooza performances. They blasted the audience into the future with a spectacular light show. This time was almost like a battle of the DJs seeing the way Harrison Mills and Clayton Knight moved together on stage with the futuristic light show going full blast. They gave a nod to day two with an incredible Sudan Archives cover of "Selfish Soul" along with "One Day They'll Know" by Pretty Lights. Major songs of theirs included a VIP remix of "All We Need" and closing the night out with "The Last Goodbye." Please don't be the last goodbye Odesza. Until an incredible final day Lolla, see you Sunday! Fiza Javid - JBTV Music Television Lollapalooza, 2023, Bobby Talamine, Fiza Javid, JBTV Music Television,Photography by Bobby Talamine Writing and Editing by Fiza Javid Grant Park - Friday August 4, 2023 Here we go day two! Upon completing this blog, I know for a fact I am going to check Google to make sure Jared Leto is okay post performance after his stage-dive-to-end-all-stage dives. But if that jump showcased anything, its the bang that Lollapalooza 2023 continued on in day two. Major photo highlights from JBTV Alumni like 30 Seconds to Mars, along with the 1975. With the first Democratic Gen Z Congressman Maxwell Frost being among the fan base who must have surely been excited for their headlining of this fine Friday afternoon. Beyond 30STM and the 1975, JBTV highlighted: Band Maid, Sudan Archives, Beabadoobee, Foals, Diesel (Shaquille O' Neil), and many more major highlights of the day. Didn't I tell you this year is full of surprises? From the one and only Shaquille O'Neill showcasing his DJ ability to 30STM paying for a plane ad to fly over Grant Park as a set list reminder, you wouldn't believe the final act hadn't arrived yet. Then there were the earlier acts, in respective order. Band Maid truly dominated their set with incredible songs like "DOMINATION," Don't You Tell ME," and "Dice" being among their showcase. Sudan Archives made a pure Lolla festival mark with the crowd vibing to their major hit "Selfish Soul," "Milk Me," and "Traditional Irish Jig" with Brittany Denise Parks truly OWNING the violin virtuosity along with her diverse, eclectic style and range for music. Who could set a better scene than her? Unstoppable. TRULY. Beabadoobee was hit after hit and another force to be reckoned with. With "Apple Cider," and "Last Day on Earth," we would have been totally stoked if our last day on earth included her music. Foals were also absolutely phenomenal, waking us all up with "Wake Me Up" and closing their set with "What Went Down." We were down for that true Oxford British rock sweeping the Chicago stage. Then, as previously mentioned, 30 Seconds to Mars literally shot Jared Leto from the roof of the stage, and I hope he could see mars from there. No matter the punches thrown at him regarding his previous acting roles, 30STM never fails to put on an unforgettable show. Jared puts his entire heart and soul into being a true performer and we NEEDED our emo nostalgic fix hearing "The Kill" again. His vocals will never be matched. Jared 'truly believed he could walk on water' as he took this god-like persona to a new level rising himself up to new heights for that son. Then to close with JBTV Alumni the 1975, Matt Healy was the true essence of a show man and they truly earned their headline spot. He seduced us with their song "Sex," and other major songs "Happiness," "Chocolate" and "Oh Caroline" being song incredible songs they played. Matt Healy is a truly modern day crooner. It was a truly soulful sing-a-long experience to see them again on the Lolla stage. It was effortless for him. With his hair slicked back and his flask, Matt knows what he is doing, and they are truly the star powers that deserve their accolades. If this is only day two, we are pinching ourselves about the dream that will be day three. Until tomorrow - Fiza Javid with JBTV Music Television Lollapalooza, 2023, Bobby Talamine, Fiza Javid, JBTV Music Television, Matt Healy, The 1975, Foals, Beabadoobie, Sudan Archives, Diesel, Thirty Seconds to MarsPhotography by Bobby Talamine Writing and Editing by Fiza Javid Grant Park - Thursday August 3, 2023 Few years back, Bobby covered Billie Eilish's first Lollapalooza performance in Chicago. The accolades she has seen as an artist since has been tremendous, and this first day proved to be her day. The mentions and the sea of fans were everywhere and it was truly exciting to see a wave of festival goers show up for her. This did not mean that there was any shade placed on the other acts. While Billie was surrounded by a tight squad of her own photographers, JBTV had the opportunity to capture other incredible acts that will surely have their accolades to come as well. The highlights of day one: Bad Neighbors, Finish Ticket, The Beaches, Lovejoy, Tomorrow X Together, Lainey Wilson, Spacey Jane, Timmy Trumpet, Portugal the Man, Dom Dolla with Nelly Furtado and Diplo were TRULY some show stoppers of day one. The Beaches in particular were true rockstars. With their set at the JBTV Studios few years back and being at Lolla few years later, they rocked out like no other. The Beaches, along with artists like the Happy Fits are JBTV Alumni truly being appreciated this year, and we are so excited to cover them this Sunday. The variety of performers was truly a marvel, but the one genre that deserves a spotlight this year is K-Pop, and its growing prevalence within the Lolla festival. With New Jean's set at the T-Mobile Stage, providing a real sense of the trajectory of the music industry of today. The crowd showcased their love for them as they sang along "OMG," "Attention," "Cookie," and "Hype Boy," and the love and talent was paid ten fold in return. Following New Jeans was Portugal the Man, and needless to say, they brought so much soul to day one. The essence of a festival that was ever Woodstock's notoriety, Portugal the Man gives to Lolla. Their songs gave a jam band air that reminded me of the feeling of watching a Jimi Hendrix performance, but then they went full swing into a euphoric cover of "In Bloom" by Nirvana. Then there was Dom Dolla x Nelly Furtado with her first comeback in over 5 years. This was a collab made in heaven. "Eat Your Man" brought a club pulsing mix to an audience who with "Maneater" equally were in the zone. She was hands down the least expected and greatest surprise of Lolla thus far, showing what surprises are in store for festival goers. If she is the surprise of day one, we are truly in for an incredible weekend. Until tomorrow, Fiza Javid - JBTV Music Television Lollapalooza 2023, JBTV Music Television, Bobby Talamine, Fiza Javid |
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