Photos and Review by: Rebecca Clark

On June 22nd, music enthusiasts gathered at Lincoln Hill Farms in Canandaigua, NY, for a night filled with nostalgic 90s alternative rock. Marcy Playground and Toad The Wet Sprocket took the stage, delivering an unforgettable concert that transported the audience back to the heyday of the genre.

Marcy Playground kicked off the night, opening for Toad The Wet Sprocket with their signature brand of alternative 90s sound. Despite Dylan Keefe’s absence, the talented Scot Alexander of Dishwalla filled in on bass, bringing his own flavor to the performance. Lead vocalist John Wozniak informed the crowd that Keefe had to tend to family issues, showcasing the band’s down-to-earth nature. Wozniak humorously remarked, “we are regular people with regular issues,” endearing the audience further.

John Wozniak, who hails from Ottawa, Canada, expressed his excitement about having his wife in attendance, as she watched from the side stage. Marcy Playground’s stage presence was infectiously fun, captivating the audience from start to finish. Their sound was exceptional, and their songs resonated with the crowd, with fans enthusiastically singing along to hits like “Deadly Handsome Man,” which they dedicated to Dave.

A humorous anecdote emerged as the band shared the story of Scot Alexander losing his clothes at the airport, but thankfully, his bass made it unscathed. This tour with Toad The Wet Sprocket held special significance for Marcy Playground, as it reminded them of their first national tour in 1996 with Toad. Their enthusiasm for performing alongside old friends was apparent.

While Marcy Playground is often associated with their hit song “Sex and Candy,” their concert showcased their vast repertoire of fantastic songs including “Poppies,” Saint Joe on the School Bus,” and “Rock and Roll Heroes.” Their performance was a reminder that they are one of the precious gems from the 90s music scene. Their quirky sense of humor shone through their lyrics and stage presence, and their alternative 90s sound, infused with a punk twist, sounded even more astounding live than on their albums.

Despite being a trio, Marcy Playground produced a remarkably full sound, never missing a beat. It was a delight to witness hardcore fans singing along to every song during their set. The band’s chemistry was evident as they interacted with each other and the audience, creating an enjoyable atmosphere throughout their performance. Marcy Playground proved to be exceptional performers, leaving a lasting impression on the crowd.

As the headliners of the night, Toad The Wet Sprocket continued the journey down memory lane, transporting the audience back to the 90s era. With their familiar hits like “All I Want,” “Walk On The Ocean,” and “Fall Down,” the band evoked a wave of nostalgia that resonated deeply with concertgoers.

One notable moment came when Toad The Wet Sprocket finally played “Pray Your Gods” live after “sitting on the song” for 30 years. Guitarist Todd Nichols took the lead on “Crazy Life” while lead vocalist Glen Phillips mesmerized the audience with his captivating vocals. Phillips, sang barefoot, added an element of grounded yet laid-back authenticity to the performance.

During “Transient Whales,” Phillips showcased his acoustic skills, using a vintage classic church theater microphone that resembled something Johnny Cash would have used. The band gathered center stage for a mini set, with bassist Dean Dinning taking the lead vocals. This retro-inspired performance setup added a unique touch to the show.

Toad The Wet Sprocket closed their set with the crowd-favorite “Walk On The Ocean.” However, they returned for an encore, treating the enthusiastic audience to “Fall Down” and “I Will Not Take These Things For Granted.” The band’s live sound was robust and powerful, delivering their beloved hits with unwavering energy.

Toad The Wet Sprocket brought a fun-filled night of 90s nostalgia to Lincoln Hill Farms. The venue was packed, and the crowd reveled in the music that transported them back in time. Marcy Playground and Toad The Wet Sprocket both delivered outstanding performances, reminding everyone of the timeless appeal of 90s alternative rock. It was a concert that left fans wanting more and cemented the legacy of these iconic bands.

Marcy Playground Gallery

Toad The Wet Sprocket Gallery