On: January 30 at 03:49 PM
At front, Greyspace. Above, Method Echo.
Creativity and artistic aptitude marked the Plea for Peace Center benefit concert Jan. 27 at the Stockton Empire Theatre. The show featured performances by The Second String Quintet, Method Echo, The Gitanos, Greyspace, and The Illegal Dead, and work by local visual artists also was exhibited.
The show started with Stockton's Second String Quintet. Equipped with a banjo, ukulele, harmonica, bass, drums, guitar, and keys, the band played a set that incorporated folk, blues, and soul. The vocal harmonies and sentimental lyrics added to the artistic richness of the music. In addition, the band played with passion and conviction. It was apparent that both the band and the audience were having a good time.
The second band of the night was Method Echo from Sacramento. Its powerful instrumentation and strong vocals kept the audience captivated, and its jazz-influenced drum beats and funky basslines created music that was both melodious and dance-friendly. This combination of pop and soul creates a genre that appeals to people of many musical tastes.
Method Echo was followed by The Gitanos, whose acoustic guitar melodies were a significant change of pace. Led by two gifted guitarists, this Latin band got the audience up and moving to the music. When the band's set was over, the audience responded by demanding an encore. The performance impressed all who attended.
Greyspace, a hip-hop band from the area, was the next band on the bill. Compelling lyrics accompanied by intricate basslines, guitar and drums led the band through a successful set. The musicians displayed enthusiasm and energy on stage. It was a wonderful band to watch.
The local psychobilly/punk band The Illegal Dead ended the night with a lively set. A three-piece consisting of guitar, drums and upright bass, the band played up-beat songs that kept the heads in the audience bobbing. The musicians showed energy great stage presence. Their fast-paced melodies were a good ending to an entertaining show.
The Second String Quintet (top) and Hey Manna! (bottom) show their support for 209Vibe:
