By Henry Shorr
Federal Frenzy is upon us, and if you have the chance to go, I can’t recommend it more. This Saturday, Penguin Productions will put on a free, all-day concert at Penguin City Brewery and Youngstown Flea.
The Jambar has covered some of the artists who will be performing, like Candace Campana, Riley Burke and Unc D, but I’d like to highlight some of my favorite acts who will be rocking our socks off this weekend.
I have to start off with my favorite local band: Speedo Agreedo is the most fun act to watch in Youngstown. Mike, Mike and Kenny play music with catchy lyrics and intense technicality that will be running through your head for days to come.
East 9th was one of the first local bands I saw live. Youngstown State University’s own Jarrett Walters slaps the bass in this high-energy ensemble. Between their driving rock and a fantastic stage presence, they’ll be a show people won’t want to miss.
Jambar alumna Krista Ritz fronts Madame Marlow, a relatively new band to the local scene. Ritz’s magnetic stage presence and powerful voice make you feel transported to a Janis Joplin or Jefferson Airplane show.
In their short time performing, they have already garnered a following of loyal fans and credibility among other musicians on the scene. Sedona’s own Harrison Rhinehart sported a Madame Marlow shirt during their recent show at the Wickyards.
Speaking of Sedona, they will also be melting faces at Federal Frenzy. Their vibe is so good.
Their EP is chock-full of songs that make you want to learn every word so you can sing along with them. I have never had a bad time at a Sedona show, and I don’t think Saturday’s set will be any different.
Finally, my must-see recommendation is The Goners.
While their single (and my personal favorite song of theirs) “Nobody Knows” came out while they were still called The Drive, they have been putting in work around Youngstown and have made a great name for themselves as The Goners.
Frontman TJ Logue has that indescribable “it” factor that keeps the audience engaged for as long as he wants.
This is just a small smattering of bands playing at Federal Frenzy. There are 24 acts total, including Mick Jenkins(!).
While you will definitely catch me in the front row for every band I mentioned, you better believe I’m excited to listen to a bunch of bands I’ve never heard before, too.
Come on down to Federal Frenzy this weekend. It’s free, it’s fun and you might just find your next musical obsession.
