Reel Big Fish and Streetlight Manifesto take on already psyched crowd.
Date: August 13, 2011
Newport Music Hall: Columbus, Ohio
Columbus ska fans flocked to the Newport Music Hall Saturday night for the chance to see an anticipated show by Reel Big Fish and Streetlight Manifesto. Chuck Taylors and fedoras galore, the venue packed in quickly as the fans rushed the stage to get the best spot possible.
Rodeo Ruby Love, the first band to go on, was a six-piece from Indiana that set the mood for the show with their upbeat jazz-influenced pop rock. Following them was a punk-ska band from London called New Riot. The loud, fast-paced music, paired with a high energy performance, made the crowd go absolutely wild. After heavy crowd surfing and probably the biggest circle pit Columbus has seen in a long time, the stage was set for Reel Big Fish.
Entering to the Superman theme song, Reel Big Fish took the stage to anxiously awaiting fans. Dirty jokes, dorky outfits, and cheesy acting managed to culminate to an incredibly light hearted and fun show for anyone that was at the Newport. The group connected with the fans in a way that hit home; from the dance floor all the way up to the synchronized balcony. After an incredibly long, yet very enjoyable set, it was time for Streetlight Manifesto to take the stage.
You’d expect that after three great bands the crowd would be worn out, but to my surprise the energy only grew. Streetlight Manifesto burst out of the gate with song after song of fast “in your face” music that everyone loved. Unfortunately, the group’s set time was a little crammed and there was not much time for crowd interaction, but that didn’t hinder the fact that every fan was screaming the lyrics right back at the band. By the time Manifesto’s set was over the crowd was simply left in awe.
Needless to say every group portrayed an incredible performance that was definitely to be remembered as one of Columbus’ most lighthearted, energetic, and flat out fun concerts of the season.
-Zach Earhart
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