On June 1, 2023, the Perinton Center Park Amphitheater in Fairport, NY, welcomed its first national artist, Collective Soul, for an unforgettable performance. Nestled at the base of a picturesque hill, the venue emanated Santa Barbara Bowl vibes, complemented by its sprawling lawn that added to the enchanting atmosphere. Despite the scorching heat that blanketed upstate New York that day, fans flocked to the venue with lawn chairs in tow to witness their favorite band Collective Soul take the stage.
Kicking off their set with “Cut the Cord” from their most recent album, Vibrating, Collective Soul wasted no time in captivating the crowd. The band’s energy was infectious, and frontman Ed Roland’s commanding presence instantly captivated everyone in attendance.
During the iconic hit “Shine,” Roland invited vocalist Chris Scott from the opening band, The Summit, to join him on stage for a memorable duet. It was a gesture that not only showcased Collective Soul’s camaraderie but also highlighted their appreciation for their supporting acts.
As a long-time fan, I found myself mesmerized once again, as Collective Soul delivered a unique and delightful experience. Their passion for their craft shines through every note, leaving audiences filled with joy time and time again. The band’s commitment to delivering an exceptional show was evident in every aspect of their performance.
The band also treated the crowd to a glimpse behind the scenes, sharing that they had recently gathered in January to record at Elvis Presley’s Palm Springs home. Two songs from this session, “Let It Flow” and “Not The Same,” were showcased during the concert, adding an element of exclusivity to the setlist.
One of the standout moments of the night was when the band celebrated their Georgia roots by playing a mini cover of Alan Jackson’s “Chattahoochee.” This nod to their roots was followed by an electrifying rendition of R.E.M.’s “The One I Love,” further emphasizing the band’s connection to their home state.
Towards the end of their set, Roland surprised everyone again by beckoning drummer Johnny Rabb to the forefront, allowing him to take over lead vocals for the beloved hit “Gel.” Meanwhile, Roland settled on the stage, his face adorned with an infectious smile, emphasizing both the band’s camaraderie and their shared delight in performing.
Collective Soul setlist was a carefully crafted collection of their greatest hits and fan favorites. From the opening chords of “Cut the Cord” to the closing notes of “Run,” the band delivered an unforgettable experience. Tracks like “Heavy,” “Shine,” “December,” and “The World I Know” elicited a wave of nostalgia, reminding us of the timeless quality of their music.
In conclusion, Collective Soul’s performance at the Perinton Center Park Amphitheater was nothing short of spectacular. The venue provided a beautiful backdrop for an unforgettable evening of music. From the band’s captivating stage presence to their seamless transitions between songs, it was evident why Collective Soul continues to thrive and inspire. If you have the opportunity to see them live, do not hesitate to seize it.
The band will be making another stop in Upstate, NY at the Saranac Brewery, in Utica, NY on August 18, 2023.
See photos from the show below:
