In 1994 a group of Pittsburgh natives formed together to release an album, When I Woke, that secured future success and highly recognized melodies and lyrics. While the genre of this band can't be pinpointed, the songs most known for include the radio-hit, Send Me On My Way, Ecstasy and Martyr, which were performed last night at The Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Rusted Root graced the stage around 9:30p and played just about 2 hours. Living up to their roots and world-rock background they delivered optimistic, jam-based tunes all night. Michael Glabicki owned the vocals and guitar like a true rock-star, hiding behind his red tinted aviators. Playing a mix of their vintage tracks and their most recent, from their latest album, Stereo Radio, which created a good buzz and was anything but "hazy," despite the holiday being celebrated.
As a first timer seeing Rusted Root live, it was largely acoustic, combined with hypnotic tribal drumming, and uplifting vocals. The ethnic influences were present throughout the whole show and the killer percussion seemed to be the consistent backbone. Some of the tunes had a bluegrass vibe to them yet over powered by the Native/Indian beat, and the ballads that interrupted the more upbeat songs, had a very emotional touch with some powerful vocals.
In my opinion, this 90's jam-band didn't get the recognition they deserved back in the day, or at least not to demographics outside college radio. While their newer album won't be record breaking, their devoted and eclectic fan base will keep coming back for more. Their Live Album is a two-disc set that would be the most electrifying bang for your buck, as their live performances are always note-worthy. Tickets were sold out nearly immediately for this show and despite doing some shameless flirting to get myself a ticket, it was well worth the $25 and who is gonna argue a $2 PBR special? Not me. Putnam Den usually isn't the venue to sell out and one can get a ticket at the door more often than not, which proves yet again how dedicated fans plus a popular band can make for a booming night of business and a rockin' good time.
Fun Factoid of the Day: NASA engineers also chose the song, Send Me On My Way, as "wake-up" music for the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity, for Sol 21. Out of this galaxy!
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