Photos and Review by Rebecca Clark
The Black Moods made their return to the Peacemaker Brewing Company in Canandaigua, NY, on July 19th. Their performance, featuring a longer set that allowed for a deeper dive into their music, was a summer highlight for their fans. The show attracted a dedicated crowd of fans who traveled from near and far, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement.
For over two hours, The Black Moods played a strong set that included both new songs and fan-favorite hits. Hearing new tracks like “Sugar” and “Heaven” live was a highlight of their set, showcasing fresh elements in their sound and demonstrating their expanded horizons as artists.. Their setlist was a perfect blend, featuring songs like “Bad News,” “Dirty Mess,” “Don’t Let Them Get You Down,” “Within Without,” “Youth Is Wasted on the Young,” “Whatcha Got,” “Hollywood,” and “Sunshine.”
One standout moment was their cover of The Doors’ song, which they recorded with the legendary Robbie Krieger. The band recounted a humorous and unforgettable story from their recording session. They had initially aimed to stay sharp by avoiding smoking, but bassist Jordan Hoffman revealed that when Krieger asked if they still smoked and affectionately called it “grass,” they couldn’t resist joining him. And they ended up using the session recorded after smoking with Krieger. Hearing this version of the song live, combined with the engaging backstory, added a deeply personal and unforgettable touch to the performance
Technical issues arose a few times, but the band handled them with stride. During one such moment, drummer Chico Diaz needed time to resolve an issue, so lead vocalist Joshua Kennedy sang a cover of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time,” which was a welcome and surprising addition. Another excellent cover was “Got You (Where I Want You)” by The Flys.
The band debuted a new song called “I Want Your Love” and Kennedy joked that any mistakes would go unnoticed since it was brand new. Their down-to-earth nature and interactive performance made the show feel intimate. Fans frequently bought them drinks, and the brewery owner even brought out a bottle of tequila for shots.
The concert concluded with “Bella Donna,” but the audience’s chants for an encore brought the band back for a few more songs, including a cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Thank You.” This extended set was a special treat for the fans, making this performance the longest and arguably the best of their tour so far.
After the show, the band spent ample time with fans, taking photos, signing autographs, and chatting. The relaxed atmosphere of the venue contributed to the evening’s fantastic vibe. One fan even shared that she chose to celebrate her wedding anniversary at the concert, without her husband, a decision she did not regret.
The evening was a testament to their status not just as a band, but as a brand. Their combination of musical talent, humor, and genuine connection with fans sets them apart in the music industry. The night was filled with laughter, great music, and excellent beer, solidifying The Black Moods as a bright spot in rock music today.
The Black Moods also mentioned their upcoming movie release on August 6th of their music documentary “500 Days of Silence,” promising it would be a hilarious watch for their fans. The movie features artists such as Sammy Hagar, Corey Taylor, Rick Springfield and Robin Wilson.
For more info about the film visit https://www.theblackmoods.com/movie/