Songwriting is the backbone of contemporary music. While it may seem that many of today’s pop hits are cheaply manufactured rather than expertly crafted, there are still countless musicians creating fabulous music that tells a story and authentically expresses a mood.
Lucky for us, a great selection of songwriters, both local and touring, will make their way through Harrisburg this month. Whether you have fond memories of the confessional songwriting of the mid-‘90s or prefer troubadours that harken back to the Dust Bowl, there is sure to be something to appeal to your particular tastes this month. So, as the kids go back to school and the temperature finally starts to cool, take some time for yourself and make your way to one of our fabulous venues for an equally fabulous show.
VINNIE PAOLIZZI, 9/2, 7PM, MIDTOWN SCHOLAR: Vinnie Paolizzi is a Philadelphian singer-songwriter equally steeped in the sounds of Americana and college jam bands. The result is a confessional approach to songwriting that nonetheless packs a bit of a groove. He is touring in support of his latest EP release, “Waiting on Me.” In the process, he is moving out from the Philly coffeehouses and bars where he uncovered his voice, making his way up and down the East Coast. Though he is early in his career, his music is mature and well rounded. So, don’t show up expecting to see a kid still figuring it out on stage. He is an experienced performer who is sure to be appeal to fans of contemporary pop-rock.
VULCANS, 9/3, 2:30PM, WHITAKER CENTER: These Mechanicsburg roots rockers have started to make a name for themselves. Strong vocals, often arranged in tight harmonies, combined with equally strong songwriting, soar over plucked banjos and rhythmic mandolin strumming. Their latest release, “Semaphore,” is a testament to their maturity and mastery of their genre. They are performing at Whitaker Center as a part of the “Summer Music Series,” which is being offered in conjunction with the summer exhibit, “Guitar—the Instrument that Rocked the World.” This is a family-friendly and free show, so bring the kids and make sure to save time to tour the Harsco Science Center exhibit.
SAM GOODWILL w/BELL LUNGS, 9/10, 7PM, HBG MAKESPACE: Sam Goodwill is a moody performer, creating both angular and somber soundscapes that seem to expand beyond the typical capabilities of his preferred instrumentation. Rich in reverb and evocative lyricism, his latest record, “History,” is a powerful listen, and there is little doubt that he’ll bring the same power to the small confines of HBG Makespace. He will be joined by Scottish multi-instrumentalist Bell Lungs, resulting in “psychedelic folk noise” that will both beautiful and challenging. Together, this should be an incredibly fantastic and artsy show, perfect for those who have more experimental musical tastes.
Mentionables: Marco Benevento, 9/2, Abbey Bar; March Fourth Marching Band, 9/11, Abbey Bar; Blind Scout, 9/23, Little Amps Downtown; Chris Emkey, 9/24, Midtown Scholar; The Wiggles, 9/28, Whitaker Center
Author: Andrew Dyrli Hermeling
