While others bounced from one venue to the next (see title link for example) I spent opening night of CMJ at Bowery Ballroom. Due to time issues I missed the first band, Care Bears On Fire, but the rest of the night was full of great music with lots of energy. We had a surprise visit from Lights Resolve, who were added to the bill last minute.
Next was Zach Williams accompanied by his band. I have seen him solo acoustic before, so I was not ready for the huge amount of energy that they brought to the table. It was quite a pleasant surprise.
Following Zach were co-headliner Stand, an Irish band with another enjoyable set.
Finally was the moment I had been waiting for, Jukebox the Ghost. They played mostly new songs, but there were also the fan favorites “Hold It In” and “Good Day”. I met a couple other enthusiastic fans who enjoyed the set just as much as I did (if not more).
*all photos by Christine Wagenheim