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| Sheer Mag by Rose Lamela |
See the Show. Buy the Shirt.
Words and Pictures by Rose Lamela
Sheer Mag is a band that has been on my radar for a bit; and I have, unfortunately, missed them several times when they've been in town. This past Friday it all came together. I immediately became drawn to their catchy guitar riffs and classic rock sound about a year ago. Tina Halladay's strong vocals triggered my impulse to check out all of their songs on Spotify. The stars aligned just in time to start my weekend at White Eagle Hall in JC, and Sheer Mag became part of it.
White Eagle Hall is not only a great venue, but I always also meet cool people to talk to. I found myself chatting it up with two Elizabeth natives about music. We talked about the possible mosh pit once Nightbirds hit the stage and our excitement to see Sheer Mag live. I was also totally inspired to buy the band's t-shirt after seeing one of my new friends sporting one.
The Smarthearts opened up the show with their Philly garage punk sound. They played songs off of their 2019 release, On the Line, which I happily found on Spotify. The crowd was just hanging back until Nightbirds pounded the stage. I have seen Nightbirds before and knew it was best to hang out on the side of the stage. There were only about 7 dudes moshing; but, when I saw someone chuck their beer in the air, I knew I my seasoned instincts were correct. Even my new friend jumped in as he told me he would give the pit a try for the first time. When they started with "My Dad is the B.T.K.," the small pit intensified. They are pretty fun to see live despite my having not quite the taste for their music. I do enjoy watching lead singer, Brian Gorsegner, perform. I did once get to see him climb and hang off a lighting grid while singing. Now that's talent!!!
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| The Smarthearts |
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| The Smarthearts |
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| The Smarthearts |
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| Night Birds |
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| Night Birds |
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| Night Birds |
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| Night Birds |
After my adrenaline subsided, I got ready for what I waited almost a year to hear. Sheer Mag delivered a great live performance and weaved some of my favorite songs into their set. They played some of their catchiest tunes like "Fan the Flames" and "Expect the Bayonet." I was so taken aback by Tina's voice live. It was as right on as it is on their studio albums. She sang her heart out, and I felt a Janis Joplin vibe from her, especially since she was rocking a pair of shades that look like the ones Janis wore in the late 60s.
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| Sheer Mag |
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| Sheer Mag |
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| Sheer Mag |
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| Sheer Mag |
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| Sheer Mag |
It was a memorable Friday, and I also had someone special join me to check out the White Eagle vibes. I was happy she did not get trapped in the pit and, hopefully, will try out some more rock shows in the future. For me, it's my life; and these bands get my days going. If it weren't for bands like Sheer Mag, I would be honking my horn and yelling out the car window on my morning commutes. They all join me on my journey and help me keep the peace.
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