Show Review

Autumn is usually good for a few things- colorful scenery, beautiful weather, layering up those long sleeved tees and- some of the most impressive tour line-ups. On October 4th, what could be best described as the Underdog tour strolled through New Jersey’s School of Rock. Steel Train’s headlining tour backed by Socratic and Ace Ender’s recent solo project was undoubtedly going to be an exceptional show.

First up was Socratic who are still frustratingly not getting the attention and credit they truly deserve. These guys are a flawless pop rock band with the kind of edge that sets them apart from the rest of the cookie cutter bands they are surrounded with. Their live sets are always fun and enjoyable and they always sound great. They opened with a favorite, “Alexandria As Our Lens” and proceeded with some songs off their latest EP. The song “Turn” which simply sums up the band- a fun brilliant jam with thoughtful lyrics that will have anyone dancing. Other songs such as “Blend In” and “Lunch for the Sky” are just as amazing with a solid rhythm section and hugely melodic piano combinations. The highlight of their set was a song titled “I Smoke” which sums up any herb user, as they will appreciate this super witty jam to the fullest extent.

Next up was Ace Enders’ new solo project- yes, another one. Ace Enders and A Million Different People were not in full effect this night as Ace stated on stage that at last minute the band had to cancel the show and he wrangled up these guys to come down and help him out, so the band itself can’t be judged fully. Overall, something was just missing, which is I know, hard to believe. Granted anything that Ace Enders touches turns to pure gold, the set was a little flat. The understanding of why The Early November left us or why I Can Make a Mess… apparently couldn’t continue is still in question, but listeners know that when it comes to Enders- you have to roll with the punches. Enders’ band didn’t have it together. The sound was off and echoed poorly throughout the venue. The highlights were his acoustic songs. “Timshel” and “The Best Happiness Money Can Buy” were exciting to hear as I Can Make A Mess… was brought back for a short time. Enders’ voice was on key and made the crowd reminiscent of his emotionally driven vocals that used to be present in TEN. He ended his set with the beautiful, “Ever So Sweet” which sounded like perfection- which comes easy to Enders- just him and a guitar.

Now it was time for the headliners- the band that was gonna bring some sound so funky and diverse that it would make the whole place dance- Steel Train. Steel Train’s music is pure entertainment with their indie-pop folk sound transcending through the air. The place was disappointingly empty filling less than half its capacity. The band played flawlessly with several different instruments chiming in during different songs- some tambourine here, a little xylophone action there, all along lining the songs with melodious piano. They courageously played almost all songs from their new album and leaving the old ones in the dust. Starting fresh, they played such songs as “School is for Losers,” “Black Eye” and “Firecracker” which are different than the last Steel Train album, with more solidarity within the band with a fuller sound and more complexity in their music. They did play two older tracks, “Better Love,” a beautiful song done acoustic by lead singer Jack Antonoff and “Road Song,” which proved their hippie stereotype right on by gathering the whole band together and hugging around a microphone singing the song. The set ended with a new gem titled “Alone on the Sea” including everything that Steel Train has to offer- pure fun and an amazingly good time. The true musical genius that shines from this band is still seemingly underrated, but hopefully with the release of their latest album, people will finally get the idea and jump on for the sensational ride.

review by Christina Reynier