Suffolk University’s WSFR and Emerson College’s WECB radio teamed up April 20 for a laid-back “4/20” spring concert featuring multiple performances by local artists at Modern Theatre.
Despite the smaller, intimate audience, the artists brought out all the fun energy to create a care-free atmosphere for the night.
The concert kicked off with Brady Dallas Jones and his band, whose lively set provided a delightful folky beginning to the evening. Jones, a Boston native, returned to Modern Theatre after two years with excitement.
“I recorded an EP last summer and I am releasing it right now,” Jones said. “It’s the first time we’re playing these songs with the band, so it feels pretty good.”
A standout from Jones’ short but sweet set was the track “Peace,” released in March. The song had a bittersweet nostalgic sound, with earthy melodies and delicate lyrics.
The indie folk energy quickly shifted as Paper Lady stepped out on stage, mesmerizing the audience with their vibrant shoegaze sound. Jones also joined Paper Lady’s set, helping out on the guitar.
From performing in basements around Boston, Paper Lady certainly made their mark through their diverse sound and memorable performance.
Their track “Five of Swords” was an energetic throw to the crowd. The guitar riffs were electrifying, as they vibrated through the venue.
Lead vocalist Alli Raina was a prowess on stage, with her screaming vocals piercing through the room. Their set was a spirited mix of alternative rock and whimsical dream pop.
“This is such a cool venue, such a cool space,” Raina said. “WECB and WSFR, the ultimate collab of the century. Awesome to be here.”
To close the night, Dana and Alden McWayne stole the show with their groovy and smooth set.
Originating from Eugene, Oregon, the McWayne brothers brought spunk to Modern. The duo and their crew got their start at Berklee College of Music and are now dazzling crowds with their indie twist on jazz.
Alden, also known as Guccipineapple, was a crowd pleaser on the drums, bringing out fun and comedic energy to their relaxing set.
Dana on the tenor saxophone and Salim Charvet on the alto saxophone were the highlights of the set. They stunned the audience with tasteful blended harmonies and their dynamic interplay elevated the music, creating a flawless representation of jazz embodied by Dana and Alden.
Their set consisted of many songs off their newest album, “Quiet Music for Young People,” including the upbeat and catchy, “Let’s Go to Trader Joe’s,” which the audience adored for the silliness of the overall track.
“Dragonfly” was another standout track that added a layer of fun to the performance. While their music may not cater to every taste, its predominantly instrumental nature complemented the overall vibe of the night.
Even with some technical keyboard difficulties, the band engaged with the audience throughout, even getting the audience to move around while making everyone in the room feel connected.
“Everyone stretch it out,” Charvet said. “You can do anything, even if you don’t believe in yourself.”
It was apparent how much work went into the concert from offering refreshments to free merch. WSFR’s events coordinator, Sammi Todaro, gave some insight into the overall production.
“Preparation for this event started in December. We took the entirety of the last four months to get ready for it, from contracting to promoting,” Todaro said. “It takes an army to make one of these events happen, so it’s definitely all hands on deck.”
The sold-out event was a fitting send-off to the end of the semester, providing a joyful atmosphere for everyone who attended. Those who missed the show can still watch the livestream recording on WSFR’s YouTube.
