Hey PA music lovers, it’s Rocktober! The harvest season! All the fall colors will soon be popping across the Commonwealth, and it’s a perfect time for a little PA road trip to see your favorite band or try out that new venue. Get out and enjoy the beautiful fall weather before Old Man Winter raises his ugly head.
This month, we are featuring Hank The Buffalo. These two are a fun bunch, and we were lucky enough to catch a live show at the local Moose in Millerstown. The Moose is a great place, and we were treated to a wonderful dinner and drinks by the great staff and our friends who work there (Thank you, “TURBO”). It was a special night because we got to get “Rockin Robin,” “Rachel Rocks,” “Zack Attack,” “Mother Trucker,” and myself, “Old Grouchy Guy,” out of the house for some live music, great food, and family time. We all really enjoyed the show. Hank The Buffalo plays a little something for everyone with songs that seem to vibe well and keep the crowd engaged and having a good time. Check out the full story on pages 12-13, and go catch a show and get your picture with “Hank The Buffalo.”
Next up, I was able to catch the last half of the 4th Annual Kingfish and Friends Creative Community Day. Unfortunately, the weather once again kept everything soggy but not enough to dampen anyone’s spirits. There were plenty of people and vendors, as well as two stages this year: one side stage back in the woods by a small cabin, and the main stage, which seems to morph each year into a new monster. Multiple fire pits to keep you warm and entertained, food, drinks, and plenty of great music were the order of the day. Hats off to Zach King and his crew who put this event on, and to Ross at Tuscarora Records who hosts this event on his property each year.
We got there just as Fink’s Constant took the stage. These guys get your attention fast. I’m not sure the crowd knew what to expect, as the word “Ska Band” was being mumbled as we walked down to the stage area. Within two songs, the crowd was engulfed in the show. The horns resonating through the wooded hillside, along with the fast-paced bass and drum beats, topped with gritty guitar riffs, made for a unique sound and flow you don’t hear much. I’d say Fink’s Constant definitely has a bit of a punk vibe for me. I really loved it, and as it turns out, I’m a Ska fan. They put on a great show, and the crowd response grew after each song. They were begging for more by the end of the set. As the ad says, Ska-Reggae-Horns-Fun – all that and a lot more. For the rest of the night, everyone was talking about that “SKA” band. If you haven’t ever checked out Fink’s Constant, please check out the schedule at the bottom of the page and get out to see a show. If you’re a venue looking for something to spice things up, give them a call and get them on the books.
Next up were The Jacks, who have played each year and are a staple at the event. This was the full band version, and as usual, they did not disappoint. They have a great setlist of original Americana-style music that really speaks to you. Each song is a masterful story that takes you along for the ride and pulls at your heartstrings or connects to experiences in your life. If you can catch a show with the full band or as a “Half Jack Acoustic Show,” I highly recommend it either way. It’s always a good time.
The last band we caught for the night was The Cabin Fever Project. These guys finished out the night with a killer set that got heavier with each song. The lead singer was full of energy and ready to rock from the get-go. His energy ripped through the crowd and had everyone dancing along, and I think I even saw some headbanging to boot. Borderline heavy metal/jam band at times, belting out throaty vocals and catchy riffs that kept the crowd wanting more. Another killer set to end an awesome night of music. Thanks again to everyone who was involved with putting on this free event. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the 5th Annual Kingfish and Friends Creative Community Day in 2025.
Last but not least, I would like to welcome the Joe Cooney and Friends Band to our pages as a new advertiser. They have been playing shows all over the region and consistently book 100-plus appearances a year. They cover classic rock, folk, country, and rockabilly. Joe plays guitar and sings with fervor that shakes the stage. Dan Gierhart adds great guitar riffs and extensive music knowledge from many years of performing in all types of bands. Russell Yohe is a seasoned professional percussionist, having been a member of nationally known bands, including The Classics IV. Mike Bonilla adds percussion, guitar, and vocals. Check out the schedule on the next page and make plans now to see a show.
That’s it for this month! Check out the schedules in this issue and support your local bands and venues. If you are a band or venue reading this, please reach out and ask us about how easy it is to advertise in our pages. Let us help you promote what you’re doing. Please call 717-636-4203 or email joshnoll@pamusician.net. Thanks again, and peace out!