Photos by Renee Clark Quade, review by Rebecca Clark

Parmalee and local emerging artist Claudia Hoyser set the stage ablaze at the country concert held at the Chemung County Fairgrounds in Horseheads, NY. On August 2nd, it was the first concert the fair has hosted in 4 years. Claudia, with her unique blend of covers and original tracks, took the audience on a musical journey. Her stage presence was captivating, donning a fashionable scarf top, cargo camo pants, and country boots, exuding a vibe reminiscent of Gwen Stefani’s flair.

Having shared the limelight with prominent acts and even gracing stages across the country, Claudia Hoyser and her band delivered an electrifying performance, creating an engaging rapport with the crowd. The atmosphere was charged with excitement when she sought the audience’s input on recording her original track “Couldn’t Wait to Find Home,” prompting an enthusiastic fan endorsement.

Her own compositions like “Sweet Twenties,” “She’s Smokin’,” and “Beer Never” resonated deeply, infusing the night with a distinct blend of musical energy. Before Parmalee took the spotlight, the crowd’s enthusiasm soared to the beat of 24k Golden’s “Mood,” akin to the pre-show ritual of Luke Bryan, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

This event marked a significant milestone as Parmalee brought music back to the fairgrounds, commencing their set with the crowd-favorite “Already Calling You Mine.” The diverse audience, spanning all generations, painted a heartwarming picture as even the youngest attendees swayed and sang along to the melodies.

Lead vocalist Matt Thomas ignited the crowd by rallying the “party people” and the “good time people” before launching into the whimsical “Musta Had a Good Time.” Parmalee’s dynamic performance took an unexpected twist with lively covers, including Train’s “Drops of Jupiter,” Usher’s “YEAH!” and Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts,” an ensemble spectacle where drummer Scott Thomas and bassist Barry Knox traded places, revealing a playful side.

Before their performance of the hit song “Carolina,” which propelled them to country music stardom, Matt shared a poignant account of their struggles prior to its creation. He recounted how advice led them to collaborate with budding producer and YouTuber Rick Beato. Beato’s guidance was instrumental in finalizing the song, and despite facing financial hardship, the band was determined to make their dream a reality. However, a setback occurred when an $18,000 check bounced, meant for Beato. At this crucial juncture, Matt and Thomas’ mother displayed unwavering faith in their potential, putting her home on the line to cover the costs. Without even hearing the song, she believed in their success. Matt expressed profound gratitude for her support, revealing that he eventually repaid her, clearing her mortgage and movingly acknowledging her role in their journey.

In a touching finale, Parmalee gave a heartwarming gesture to their dedicated fans, distributing guitar picks and drumsticks to young enthusiasts in the front row. This simple act underscored the band’s gratitude and genuine connection with their audience. Parmalee’s live performance exuded passion and authenticity, reflecting their commitment to both their craft and their fans. Their genuine nature shines through, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended.

Parmalee Photo Gallery

See photos of Claudia Hoyser below: