This year I’ve seen many Moonalice performances and have become well acquainted with this band who leads the way in maximizing live music in a digital era. Long gone is the analog model that supported the iconic rock bands of the 20th century. The majority of Moonalice shows I’ve been privy to are live on the Moonalice Livestream channel http://www.moonaliceTV.com and their Concord, California performance August 12, was no exception.
The five-piece jam band appeared at an outdoor show in Todos Santos Park just east of Berkeley. From the looks of things about 1,000 to 1,500 people attended the all-ages free concert.
Moonalice literally rocks every venue they appear in with a fairly standard set of original and cover tunes. “A Whiter Shade of Pale” with Ann McNamee as lead vocalist was center stage when I logged into the real time show. Pete Sears (Jefferson Starship, Hot Tuna) and Roger McNamee share male lead vocals throughout each show.
An elegant and seasoned performer, Sears’ signature song is “Kick It Open.” With a distinctive Dire Straits flavor, this tune never fails to please. He is a master keyboard player who tells a different tale in each tune through whatever musical style complements the story. On bass and guitar, Sears is one of the most accomplished performers you’ll find on any stage.
The band is rounded out by Barry Sless (Phil Lesh, David Nelson Band) the most remarkable pedal steel player I’ve heard. Listeners literally swoon at his delicate touch. The guy who keeps them all grounded, is drummer, John Molo, (Bruce Hornsby and the Range) who fits this band like a glove. Molo, Sless, and Sears are legendary players who provide Moonalice iconic personality and rock solid credibility.
Speaking of personality, there is no keeping the effervescent Roger McNamee down. He is a showman from the word go. McNamee contributes a great deal of original material to Moonalice, and from last night’s performance two songs have his indelible signature on them: “Tell Me It’s Okay” and “In The Nick of Time.” These are crowd favorites, and everyone familiar with their music instinctively sings along.
A full-color, collectible poster is designed for each and every Moonalice show. Wendy Wright, of San Francisco designed the Concord poster seen here.
At the beginning of 2010 Moonalice had 110 shows on the books. Check their touring schedule at http://Moonalice.com for shows in your area. If you can’t find them locally check the touring schedule anyway, as nearly every show is broadcast live on the Moonalice TV channel. Login to the chat room and hang out with the Moonalice Tribe, a congenial group of people from all over the world who tune in to hear Moonalice whenever possible.