Gathering of the Vibes

Furthur Headlining Friday Night - Daily Lineups Announced

2010-05-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

Gathering of the Vibes is pleased to announce that Bob Weir and Phil Lesh's new band Futhur will be headlining Friday night.

In addition, you can check out who is playing on what day here.

2010 Gathering of the Vibes Lineup

2010-03-30T11:39:00.001-07:00

Come celebrate the 15th Gathering of the Vibes at Seaside Park in Bridgeport, CT with this great lineup...

- PRIMUS
- JIMMY CLIFF
- DAMIAN MARLEY FT. NAS
- RHYTHM DEVILS FT. KELLER WILLIAMS
- UMPHREY'S MCGEE
- GALACTIC
- JACKIE GREENE
- ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND
- STEVE KIMOCK CRAZY ENGINE
- THE RADIATORS
- MIX MASTER MIKE
- MARTIN SEXTON & RYAN MONTBLEAU BAND
- DEEP BANANA BLACKOUT
- LITTLE FEAT
- BIG SAM'S FUNKY NATION
- ASSEMBLY OF DUST
- MAX CREEK
- DARK STAR ORCHESTRA
- NEW RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE
- ZACH DEPUTY
- HARLEM GOSPEL CHOIR
- KING FOR A DAY
- DONNA JEAN GODCHAUX

Green Stage Lineup

2009-05-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

Band Together CT

Big Moon

Blues and Lasers

Chris Barron

Cornmeal

Daria Musk Trio

David Gans

Jaimoe's Jasssz Band

Jennie Arnau

Klyph Black and Rumor Has It

Matt Turk and the Hobo Caravan

Reckoning

Steal Your Face

Tao Rodriguez Seeger

The McLovins

The Pimps of Joytime

The Queen Killing Kings

These United States

Tom Crowley and the Speakers

In addition PJ Pacifico has been announced to start the festival off on Thursday night.

Final Vibes Lineup

2009-04-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

Gathering of the Vibes is happy to announce the final additions to the 2009 lineup.

Crosby, Stills & Nash

Guster

The Machine (Pink Floyd Cover Band)

Lineup Announcement

2009-03-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

In no particular order...

Bob Weir & Ratdog (Sat)
Levon Helm (Sat)
moe (Fri)
Dark Star Orchestra (Thurs)
Keller Williams (Sat)
Grace Potter & the Nocturnals (Sun)
George Clinton and PFunk (Fri)
Deep Banana Blackout (Fri)
Buddy Guy
Lettuce (Fri)
Max Creek
John Brown's Body (Thurs)
State Radio (Sat)
Donna Jean (Thurs)
JJ Grey and Mofro
Strangefolk
King for a Day
Assembly of Dust
Ryan Montbluea
Harlem Gospel Choir

plus more to be announced...

Live Webcast of Artist Announcement...

2009-03-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

Vibes 2009

2009-01-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

A Message From Ken

Gathering of the Vibes Holiday Update from In The Band on Vimeo.

Tickets on sale now!

More Taj Mahal Pics

2008-09-01T20:27:00.001-07:00

Saint Bernadette Part Three

2008-08-26T21:34:00.001-07:00

More Kreutzmann Trio Shots

2008-08-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

More PBS shots...

2008-08-13T15:41:00.001-07:00

More Dark Star Orchestra Pictures

2008-08-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

Going to be uploading some more pictures I took from the weekend, some might be repeats but I do not believe so.

Heavy Pets from the Solar Stage Video Clip

2008-08-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

Another from Saint Bernadette

2008-08-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Vibes Torrents Already Up...

2008-08-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks Tapers!

PBS

Umphreys

Phil Lesh & Friends

Assembly of Dust

Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi

Deep Banana Blackout

Black Crowes

Zappa Plays Zappa

Saint Bernadette Video Clip

2008-08-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

There should be another clip or two from the Solar Stage in the next few days.

Everyone say "Thanks Ken"

2008-08-03T20:46:00.001-07:00

Thanks Ken.

The Nevilles Close Vibes 2008

2008-08-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Reminiscent of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the closing set of the 2008 Gathering of the Vibes is by New Orleans legends the Neville Brothers. Keeping their first several songs to a maximum of 5 to 6 minutes each, their set moves nicely through "Fiyo on the Bayou" and "Tipitina". "Tipitina", a Professor Long Hair original is set to a fast dynamic tempo with a dominant bass guitar. "Fever" is covered by Aaron Neville on vocals with his smooth velvet like voice. "Big Chief" (Professor Longhair) is poised mid set with roaring conga playing by Cyril Neville.

"Everybody Plays the Fool" and "Tell It Like it Is" are two standards from Aaron Neville repertoire that are well received.

"It Don't Mean a Thing" (a nice choice in my opinion) is arranged with a latin groove followed by the highly syncopated "Giacamo" and "Filo Gumbo". "Yellow Moon" is set to a reggae beat, with sultry saxophone work by Charles Neville. "When You Go to New Orleans" features thick slap bass guitar playing and funks it way to the close of the set. The official last song of the evening is a tender rendition of "Amazing Grace" tastefully done by Aaron Neville. The song transitions into a cover of Bob Marley's "One Love".

Family Trucks Soul Stew

2008-08-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, husband and wife duo whose eclectic range of blues and soul music is far reaching in today's music scene, took the main stage at 3:15. Trucks' (Derek Trucks Band, Allman Brothers Band) stylistic guitar playing is fluid, original and ingenious. Listening to his solos one can hear a logical progression of of thought and skill - ideas transforming into articulate phrasing, a definite sign of musical maturity. Tinged with a clean vibrato effect his signature playing is never far from recognition. Tedeschi balances this with her effortless and distinct vocals. With her mild vibrato and mix of blues inflected riffs she can sing her way through any progression. Her strength as a vocalist is multiplied by her solid skills as a blues/soul guitarist. Tedeschi's rich voice blends with Mike Mattison's (Scropomatic, Derek Trucks Band) beautifully. A surprising "Hey Jude" cover closed their electrifying set.

Umphrey's

2008-08-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

This is now my third time seing Umphreys McGee, so it will be tough to really talk about them and their songs while sounding like I know what I'm talking about. Like most jambands, unless you're a true fan it can be tough to tell if they played 3, 7 or 15 songs in a set. Umphreys is certainly a jam band, but not a typical one, their sound is a bit harder/edgier with long guitar riffs infused with deep drum and bass lines. Their jams are soothing than, say, the Dead or Phish, but more like Zappa, which I was exposed to the first time Friday night with Zappa plays Zappa. With the sun beating down as hard as it has been all weekend, Umphreys McGee took the stage and have jammed their butts off. We are about an hour into their set and I'm not sure if they've stopped once. While some jambands loose me after too long of a jam, Umphreys seems to find a way to get me back in right when my mind is about to say "BORING!". Most importantly, the crowd is dancing and not slowing down despite a long weekend of great music.

2008-08-03T14:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday (The Last Day) Organically Grown Gospel Choir, Saint Bernadette

2008-08-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

The first performance of the day on the main stage is the "Organically Grown Gospel Choir" led by the dynamic Andrew Gromiller. Rousing the vibes tribe with words of praise, deliverance and love, this choir parades through their set vivaciously. A highlight of the performance is an added a cappella section led by Jen Durkin, (deep Banana Blackout, The Durkins, Equinox) showcasing her solid talent as a soloist. Two of the choir's youngest members are a percussion player (probably age 9 -10) and 21 year old saxophonists Sam white. On the song, Revival in my Soul" a trombone solo is featured adding a nice flavor to the more traditional sounding gospel songs.

Saint Bernadette took the Solar Stage today at noon. They are a 5 piece, Bridgeport based band whose roots lay in alternate rock. Vocalist Meredith DiMenna delivers her lyrics with boldness and forthrightness. Powerful double - time playing proceeded a couple of the final cadences of Saint Bernadette's songs, elevating the intensity level and the fun of the performance. The addition of slide pedal guitar allowing S.B. to explore different sound options along with clever electric guitar playing, makes me look forward to hearing more from this powerful and intelligent band.

I also spoke to a members of Caravan of Thieves who played the Solar Stage yesterday right after the stages were restarted due to the rain. Unfortunately we missed their set because of the confusion. Talking with Brian, I learn that Caravan of Thieves hails from Bridgeport and is a fairly new formation. Their sound can be characterized as 'gypsy pop'. Their first CD is set for release September or October.

Saint Bernadette

Look for a video clip of Saint Bernadette tonight or tomorrow.

Jackie & Sam

2008-08-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday Morning Choir With Andrew & Deep Banana

2008-08-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

Last day here in Bridgeprot, but a great day its going to be. Wanted to make sure we got up here for the Organically Grown Music Choir and I'm glad I did. Andrew Gromiller with most of Deep Banana Blackout really brought some great Sunday morning vibes to the Vibes. Whether you are a religious person or not, their energy and soulful singing gave me goosebumps, b/c to me it doesn't matter what they are singing out, its about how they sing it. And for someone (me) who has spent quite a bit of time at the Gospel tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the O.G. Gospel Choir could easily headline that stage.

A Little More Lesh

2008-08-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

It is a tradition here at GOTV to feature 2nd generation Dead bands. The Mickey Hart Band as well as Ratdog were featured last year. This year it was Phil Lesh and Friends. Lesh and Friends started their set with "Here Comes Sunshine". A typical trait of the Dead is musical wanderings that eventually and skillfully lead from one sound world into a another. Towards the end of the "Here Comes Sunshine" Phil takes a solo that segues the song into "Good Love".

"Cumberland Blues" features blustery guitar playing of Larry Campbell. Its two step groove is morphed harmonically but remains recognizable within the variations it becomes subject to. The jam lasts about 15 minutes or so before the return of the droning bass line of the original song. "Dire Wolf", short in length stays in the same 'country dead' mode. "Loser" with its solitary lyrics builds slow and is well represented within the nuances of Greene's voice. "Cold Rain and Snow" closed the first set.

After a lengthy set break Phil Lesh and Friends return with "Scarlet Begonias". An unexpected, "All Along the Watchtower". "He's Gone" with its medium tempoed groove and three part harmony is a Dead song where the vocal harmony comes as close to perfection as any Dead song can. "He's Gone" leads into "Going Down the Road Feelin' Bad", which builds up tremendously as each refrain is visited, especially with the help of Theresa Williams on backing vocals. "Wharf Rat" has become a favorite of mine - glad they included it.

Keeping alive the spirit of the Dead under the wing of Phil Lesh is a talented group of musicians on the edge of experimentation. Watching glow sticks sail through the air in random shapes over the crowd adds to the spirit of GOTV. The vibes tribe is appreciative of the special moments that Phil Lesh and Friends help to bring about. As the night grows late the energy of the crowd grows stronger. And as the magic of the setlist's spacey jam becomes recognizable familiar hits like, "I Know Your Rider" and "Box of Rain" appear, demonstrating the vastness and appeal of the Dead's repertoire.

Sunday Morning with Some Phil Lesh Shots

2008-08-03T05:35:00.000-07:00

Setlist From Philzone.com

Set 1:
*Here Comes Sunshine>
*Good Lovin'
*Gone Wanderin'
Cumberland Blues
*Direwolf
Loser
Cold Rain and Snow

Set 2:
*Scarlet Begonias>
All Along The Watchtower> Jam>
*He's Gone>
*Goin' Down The Road Feelin' Bad
Wharf Rat>
Spacy Jam>
Elevator> Jam>
The Eleven>
*I Know You Rider
Not Fade Away

Donor Rap/Intros

enc:
Box Of Rain

Heavy Pets Pictures

2008-08-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Jen, Darian & Gordo

2008-08-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

Durkins Video Clip

2008-08-02T21:53:00.001-07:00

Again really sorry for the lack of updates today, the large break of no music meant a lot of music got done in a short period of time and because both stages were packed with great musicians, we went back and forth more than yesterday. But the good thing about that is there is more stuff to post, like this video clip from the Solar Stage.

Alternate Routes Pictures (finally!)

2008-08-02T20:27:00.001-07:00

Rainy Day Update

2008-08-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

Our Internet connection has been very sporadic, thus the few updates today. If we do not get a better connection, we will put up all all the photos and some video clips tonight when we get home.

The lead singer, Tim of the Alternate Routes expresses his gratitude to the crowd, "We've been looking forward to playing the Vibes this year, ...have a great day, a great life...I love the gold pants" (to a audience member in the front). With heart felt lyrics the last song, a ballad revisits a lost love and the pain of moving on. I sense there is a lot of intention behind the band's lyrics, 'I'm still standing on the edge of something good'. The emcee remarks afterwards that the Alternate Routes are his new favorite band, and he wants a CD.

The impending rain has finally let loose upon us. I watch as the crew rushes to close the stage down. And all but one concert goer in their lonely black beach chair remains on the lawn (covered by an umbrella, only his feet exposed) on the mainstage lawn. Eventually the lawn is closed.

All said it took about 3 hours for the rain to pass through. Most of the time was spent watching the lightning bolts zig zag their away around the park. The rain and wind kicked fiercly causing us to move further into the tent, also casuing huge puddles to sporadically form.

As I am awoken by the sound of the sound equipment being tested and the voice of Jerry Garcia singing, 'here comes sunshine'. I watch Wavy Gravy light a candle in the hope of keeping the rain away but he is still in a rain poncho as well. I realize showtime is about to resume. Starting with New Riders of the Purple Sage then followed by The Bill Kreutzmann.

The Kreutzmann Trio is comprised of Kreutzmann, guitarist Scott Murawski and Oteil Burbridge (Allman Bros.) Their highly electric band incorporates straight up rock with a progressive flair. Improvisational sojourns color the ears with far reaching harmonies as songs bleed into one another. A highlight in the setlist was "Bertha" from the Dead's repertoire.

Later this afternoon while browsing the vendor booths I visit and with Tom of "Apsara". Tom Mond and his wife Sally Chan currently operate 2 vending stands. The vending stand here at the vibes is located on the outside perimeter of the main stage area, waterfront area. While Tom is here at the Vibes his wife Sally is at the Newport Festival. While not touring Asia for tribal art, antiques and carpeting, Tom and Sally work anywhere from 18 - 20 festivals a year, and are currently in the process of renovating a 200 year old church in their home town Eliot, Maine.

Their craft stands offer alternatives to the more commercial/ traditional tie dye fashion that is often found at 'hippie festivals'. Looking around in their spacious tent one can find distinct fashions ranging from sundresses, halter shirts, shorts, capris and fine jewelry. When asked about competition from vendors Tom remarks he 'personally doesn't mind, competition creates vibes'. He continues to speak in a very thoughtful manner, "there is a logic behind a group" and that they ' serve to support each other. Tom and Sally's items reflect their personal taste in a unique setting.

Rain Rain Go Away...

2008-08-01T21:57:00.002-07:00

Well folks, we just got power back, thus the reason for no updates so far. The Alternate Routes went on without a hitch, but about two minutes after their set, a torrential rain storm hit, making the Vibes shut down for a while. Concert field was closed, stage was cleared and power was shut off. Not sure when they are going to start back up, its about 4pm, but Wavy Gravy is walking around and they brought the stage security back, so I think we are hopefully not too far away.

This can of PBR sadly did not make it through the storm. Our prayers are with the rest of his case and there will be a moment of silence on his behalf. RIP PBR can.

Black Crowes in Pictures...

2008-08-01T21:57:00.001-07:00

The Black Crowes are the last band to grace the main stage tonight. Beginning their two hour set with a slowly crescendoing mantra, Chris Robinson insures us that, 'its alright sister, its alright brother' speaking the language of the spirit of the Vibes festival.

"Daughters of the Revolution" from their latest album, "Warpaint" has the crowd around me rocking out. When finished Robinson remarks that its good to be part of the Vibes for the first time. Joining the Crowes are Adam Macdougal (keyboards) and Luther Dickinson from the North Mississippi Allstars.

The Crowes' mid set is characterized by a long jam. It seems as though they are reaching out in new directions as compared to their earlier repertoire which received a lot of radio play. This is the 3rd time I've seem them perform in the last year or so. I have not heard them do any Dead covers before tonight. "Cold Rain and Snow" seems to be good song choice for Robinson's agile and expressive voice. I was informed that Robinson toured with Phil Lesh and Friends several years ago. "Hard to Handle", a previous hit that is enthusiastically welcomed by the Vibes crowd. Another vehicle of expression for Chris Robinson other than his voice is his harmonica. His artful use of it is an extension of his sound.

DEEP....

2008-08-01T20:46:00.001-07:00

As I sit and listen to Deep Banana Blackout elevate themselves further into funk and groove I am in awe at how a physically small a woman lead singer Jen Durkin is compared to how enormous of a musical force she is.

As I become more exposed to different types of music throughout my life I realize what I crave in a musical performance - music that by stretching the limit of expectation and regularity, transports one into a blissful state - DBB satisfies this craving for me. Growing older we become less tolerant or coherant to the sounds that don't 'speak' to us - and more in tune with the ones that do. I hope music appreciators out there who have not afforded themselves the opportunity of experiencing DBB live will soon make the effort to do so.

Speaking in terms of vocal ability I believe Jen Durkin ranks as one of the great vocalists of the last couple of decades. Her precise intonation, vocal agility, control and range are in my opinion matched by only few. Her vocal style allow her to stand up tall to the roaring and serious grooves that DBB provides her.

It is truly inspiring to watch the dynamic level of Deep Banana Blackout endure as they brew a set-list full of soul, latin, R&B and funk inspired grooves into their own design - I could only imagine the adrenaline rush it must yield to be part of something so extraordinary.

The Black Crowes are the last band to grace the main stage tonight. Beginning their two hour set with a slowly crescendoing mantra, Chris Robinson insures us that, 'its alright sister, its alright brother' speaking the language of the spirit of the Vibes festival.

"Daughters of the Revolution" from their lastest album follows and has the crowd around me rocking out. When finished Robinson remarks that its good to be part of the Vibes for the first time

....BANANA BLACKOUT! (and Yuto too)

2008-08-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

BuzzUniverse Video Clip - Thursday - Solar Stage

2008-08-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

AOD & Zappa Plays Zappa

2008-08-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

Assembly of Dust took the main stage after PBS. What most impressed me last year,(the first time I heard them) was their ability to include many flavors of sounds into an original one that is pleasing to listen to. AOD's muscianship is evident in their solos, when the lyrics have been sang, their instruments take over to demonstrate the song's passage into instrumental expression. I was most impressed with Nate Wilson's keyboard solo heard at the end of their setlist which extended itself into a jazz like harmonic structure. Piling chords to the top of his instrument he crusades in climax.

Their song, "That's how it Goes" expresses singer Reid Genauer ability to express insight into a 'a man's tarnished reputation' justifying his actions with the line, 'vices are the the spices' of life - cute.

From the onset Zappa plays Zappa is a rebellious concoction of obtuse harmonies, shifting meters and tempo, and bold arrangements. The music is flavored with progressive rock motives, heavy metal grooves and lyrics that are anti- establishment in nature. At one point the voice of Eric Cartman from South Park is imposed over the music speaking of dildos and such. The next group of lyrics seem to consist of one phrase, 'you're an asshole'. The idea of censorship holds no weight in the sound world of Zappa.

The set is musical in that it blends instruments and ranges to create a sort of mayhem. I can feel the bass go through my bones practically as a guitar wails registers above it. With time signatures I couldn't play into to save my life, the music of Zappa seems to thrive within.

Switching over to a 'blues about love' there is a clear form to the song, its intense buildup is emotional and satisfying.

A xylophone/ synth solo is featured in one piece, and uses a serious stretch of harmonies. The solo is matched in intensity with a subdivided beat in the drums with accents on the cymbals.

Zappa's music is sophisticated in that it seems highly orchestrated and thought out, a feat not every musician can accomplish. Chromatic harmonies, close knit vocal harmonies and unexpected chord resolutions create a new sound world for my ears to follow, a retreat from the ordinary.

A drum solo with lots of double bass and tom tom rolls characterizes the opening section of a mid = set song and then gives way to a heavy insistent distorted bass guitar. The meter changes to a compound one and a sax plays jazz like riffs over the waves of distortion.

"Hot Wax" uses a cleaner guitar to articulate the phrasing, as hints of flute are heard above it. There are changes in mood by way of meter and melody - does that make you think of hot wax?

If you listen to Zappa's music expecting to hear relative harmonies and traditional endings your are listening the wrong way. One must have an open mind and a spirit that is ready to rock in a vast and changing universe.

Zappa plays Zappa conclude their set with "Cosmic Debris". A dynamic round of blues solos around the band make for a climactic ending. As I look around me at the huge of number of people rocking out, playing air guitar it makes me think of the sheer power that musical sound has over us.
My 2nd day into the vibes has been one filled with so much, imagery, color, walks of life and society all coming together to celebrate music. Within the orbits of hula hoops and the smiles of strangers I'm starting to feel what this festival is all about. I'm glad I have another two days to deepen that understanding.

ANIMAL! ANIMAL!

2008-08-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Montbleau, The Bridge and PBS and a kid in an asian hat

2008-08-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

Mid-day Update

2008-08-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Ryan Montbleau really blew me away with his set. I really couldn't see the stage from where I was sitting but I still listened intently.

Toward the end of his set he brought up the horn section from Deep Banana Blackout. The song they joined him on started with Montbleau's conversational serenade, he sings to the crowd, "We're all at home here so knock on my door." A cappella he continues, "There's someone knocking on my door, would you please get it...? The song seems to be about coming together in the human race to raise each other up. After a few minutes of the bare introduction, the notes of a doorbell are played, starting the inclusion of the instruments. DBB horns brought the song to a new level with their pure ascending and descending lines in the background.

I wish I could see a setlist for the artists that would make it easier for me to distinguish one song from the other and be able to talk about that song specifically.

As we wait for Porter Baptiste Stoltz, Lou Genauer from Assembly of Dust serenades the crowd, just him and his guitar. I've just returned from the solar stage, where there seems to be more people lounging in the shaded lawn area than a couple of hours earlier. I heard a bit of "The Bridge". Notable is their song, 'Drop the Beat" that features some really awesome beatboxing from a band member named Kenny. The song transitions into a retro -dance groove with a saxophone running throughout - really cool.

Porter Baptiste Stoltz a group of musicians whose roots lay in New Orleans start of their eclectic set list with a song, "I get high, every time I think about you" has a rockin' dominant bass line. "You Gotta Believe" is a soulful ballad with meaningful lyrics. "All we want you to do, is get funky tonight" has some New Orleans flavor to it with its syncopated bass line and call and response like phrasing.

American Babies & The Grapes

2008-08-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

The Grapes

Vendor Info

2008-08-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

Welcome all to the 2nd days here at Vibes. As I get a healthy dose of "King For a Day", a Connecticut based band (that far exceeds any expectation of locality) on the main stage I look out across to the Craft vendors. They line the perimeter of the grounds and offer a variety of merchandise that are appealing and asthetic to mind, heart and soul.

Vending stands such as "The Collective Underground", "Mi Casa", "Little Hippie" and Mountain Mama from Maine" "Dye the Sky" and many others offer distinct and special merchandise at reasonable prices. Cute summer dresses offered by several stands priced at no more than 28 dollars had me tempted to shop. What you will basically see as you walk past most of the vendors are concert tee shirt, hoodies (Grateful Dead that is) tye dyed versions of tank tops, skirts, both long and short, cotton capris, and halter tops. Also available are handbags, back packs, patches, beaded lighter cases, hats, and tobacco paraphernalia (wink wink). Also available is Vintage Dead memorabealia, henna painting and incense.

I speak with Rich from "Worm Town Trading" who for the last 10 years has been working festivals. His merchandise ranges from many different styles of jewelry to cd's. A music enthusiast, after receiving his degree in fine arts, toured with the Grateful Dead with various vendor stands. Rich refers to himself as a 'jack of all trades, master of none' and is light hearted about his experience as an aritst/vendor.

Also gracious enough to speak with me today is visual artist, Phil Kutno of "Phil Kutno Studios". Hailing from Berkeley, C.A. kutno admits he's become 'addicted to the road' after 20 years of vending he appreciates and needs the stimulation of the external influences he experiences. Currently in the midst of a six concert tour, Kutno and his richly detailed body of work will soon arrive in Philly, Nashville and Florida. Kutno's works includes pencil sketches to portrait paintings of just to name a few, Jerry Garcia to Neil Young, to Stevie Nicks.

Food vendors range from festival favorites such as fresh cut french fries, pizza, funnel cakes, freshly squeezed lemonade. Also offered this year is Chinese food, Mexican food, and crepes at "the Thin Pancake". "Taste Buds" offer a variety of Gourmet desserts and coffees. Magic Hat Beer stands can be found on the grounds promising, 'a performance in every bottle'. Walking along the path of vendors, both food and craft offer enough variety to satisfy even the most pickiest of shoppers and eaters.

Within the VIP guest tent I encounter, Matt, a young guy who helped my boyfriend rip a towel into smaller pieces to help with maintaining sweat and all. I learn that Matt is a chiropractor, (my 2nd encounter with a chiropractor here at the vibes in the last 24 hours). When I question Dr. Cucolo about his presence here at Vibes he tells me he has a booth set up offering chiropractic and acupuncture services for free. Over his last three years at the vibes Cucolo says many people have offered him tips and small tokens of appreciations to which he declines. He remarks that it is his 'gift of giving back'.

Day Two Begins - King For a Day Pics

2008-08-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

We Bid You Good Night...

2008-07-31T23:13:00.000-07:00

During a momentary pause after a wild "Truckin" here again behind the fence barricade I listen for the next song. (this is probably one of few moments that DSO doesn't transition into another song) Its been an intense 2nd set, one full of powerful musical tangents. Early in the set is "Scarlet Begonias" with its wa-wa pedal guitar that leads itself into "Fire On the Mountain" an appropriate pairing being that the guitar remains with the effect (and that whole caribbean sound of the grooves).

"Not Fade Away" with its lengthy excursion probably takes the cake in terms of jams. The prettiest however in my opinion is "Wharf Rat", there is a certain yearning within the melody that is haunting as well as solitary.

"St. Stephen" a song that is from the early Dead repertoire appears appears before "Not fade Away" and is revisited after "Wharf Rat".

Donna Jean joins DSO for "Good Love" (and stayed through the end of the show), quite a departure from the plight of musical explorations thus far in the second set. But one knows with the Dead, the formulaic set lists are designed more so as ventures rather than anything else. The depth of playing is vast within 2nd sets of the Dead more so than in 1st sets.

Its officially August 1, Jerry's Birthday the band pronounces this fact and deicates the song, "Don't Let Go". The song goes into double time at the end while Kadlecik's guitar wanders off through obscure harmonies. You can hear the keyboard comp in the same vein in the same obscure key. I realize how tight this band is. The song slows and seems that it will end, trailing like a musical stream of consciousness, a description not to far from how many would describe Jerry's style, I'm sure. The tune appears again in the original tempo as it comes to an end.

A very appropriate ending is delivered a cappella, "I Bid you Goodnight" a trademark of Dead shows.

Lastly DSO mentions that the show is a replica of the November 6, 1977 Binghamton, N.Y. show.

Goodnight Vibes, see you tomorrow...

Day One Comes to a Close

2008-07-31T22:52:00.000-07:00

What a great day one, short by Vibes and festival standards, but a real nice taste of whats to come the next three days. Groovesect started the day with some New Orleans funk and we ended with an amazing set by Dark Star Orchestra. When you close your eyes and not look at who is on stage, its almost eery how much they sound like the Dead from the 70's. But anyway, you can look for Jess' words on the subject. Here are my final shots for the night, see you guys tomorrow.

Lester's Woodstock Story (oh, and DSO's first set)

2008-07-31T20:36:00.000-07:00

Dark Star Orchestra began their first of two sets at 9 pm for an enthusiastic crowd. As I sit behind a fence barricad in my comfortable yellow chair the opening bars of Mississippi Half Step, bring me back to listening to "Wake of the Flood" on vinyl in my apartment.
Joining me by my side during "Tenesse Jed" is a man by the name Lester, whose introduction was in the form of a suggestion. Lester told me to move my chair up closer to the fence so that no one may obstruct my and now his, view any further. I agree, a conversation pursues. I am transported back to Yasgur's farm 1969, where my new acquaintance arrived a week before (and stayed a week after as well) the historical Woodstock festival was to take place. Lester tells me he was hired amidst 10 other men as a garbage man for the going wage of 35 dollars a day. As the hype insued over Woodstock's appeal so did the overall expected crowd number.. Half a million people to 10 garbage men. In order to keep the men interested in the job after hearing this incredible number, the wage was raised to 80 dollars a day.

Lester talks of the beauty that captivated him as he gazed upon the farmland pre-festival. He speaks of the mud that accrued from persistent rains and he also speaks of the Dead's set. I share my limited knowledge of the time in bits and pieces. The Grateful Dead did not sign release forms for their performance, as they did not feel it was not up to par. I ask Lester how he felt about the Dead at Woodstock, he said he sat upon the top of a truck and watched as the rain and wind almost blew over the stage, nevertheless impressed . He tells me the stage crew had to cut the tarp in order to allow the wind passage. He remarks that he doesn't have a bad word to say about any Dead performance. Lester later adds that he is an experienced concert goer very impressed with the magnitude to which Gathering of Vibes is produced by Ken Hayes.

Here I am sitting listening to stories of an era that I could only employ imagination to and yet I have a man, a perfect stranger that is recounting his experience of it for me, a welcomed surprise. The coming together of Deadheads remains an integral parts of the Grateful Dead's legacy, one in which I have been included tonight with the company of my new Deadhead friend Lester. To the sounds of DSO, I am the recipient of factual recounts pertaining to the Dead.

As the setlist moves to include "Me and My Uncle', and "Mexicali Blues" "New MingleWood Blues "Bob Weir's 'compositional subsets' as Lester calls them, I become enthralled with the uncanny resemblance between Eaton's and Weir's voices. I need not look up at the stage or screen, there is a fusion that is credible to not only my ears but my eyes.

As I view the stretch of people in front and around me I realize how much I am enjoying this moment. The weather has cooled alot, the night is filled with the sounds of DSO. and those who love them - I don't know what else I could ask for right now.

My personal favorite within DSO's first set is "Music Never Stopped". Lisa Mackey's striking rendition to Donna Jean's thick middle ranged voice is stellar as is and Rob Eaton's to Bob Weir's. As the last minutes of the first set are filled with guitarist's John Kadlecik inspired solo I am truly blown away. Thank you DSO... and Lester the chiropractor!

Donna Jean and the Tricksters

2008-07-31T19:11:00.001-07:00

Donna Jean and the Tricksters set the mood high for the first evening of Vibes. As I watch the sun descend the sky, the wind picks up, slightly blowing Donna Jean's signature long hair behind her in a picturesque way as she stands at the center of the stage. What is noticeable among Donna Jean and the Tricksters is a mutual respect and sharing of music. Blending Dead repertoire with original songs their set moves easily on, closing with a blues number with Dark Star Orchestra's Rob Barraco sitting in on keyboards (at least I think so sitting here in the media tent writing this). Solos taken around the band develop the songs' forms into riper versions, transitioning from tamed tempos of early rock and roll to their roaring counterparts in due time.

Reminiscent of her years with the Grateful Dead is Donna Jean's laid back and patient stage presence during jams and lengthy solos. Wendy Lanter is the background singer, whose contributing upper harmonies on "Across the Universe" is what made the song special for me. By the time they arrived at the chorus a third voice is added, exposing the thoughtful arrangement's beauty.

Donna Jean Godchaux - Vocals; Jeff Mattson - Vocals, Guitar; Mookie Siegel - Vocals, Keyboards; Tom Circosta - Vocals, Guitar; Klyph Black - Vocals, Bass; Wendy Lanter - Vocals; Dave Diamond - Drums, Vocals

DJ and the Tricksters Pictsters

2008-07-31T19:09:00.001-07:00

BuzzUniverse Closes the Solar Stage Thursday

2008-07-31T17:13:00.003-07:00

BuzzUniverse closed the Solar Stage Thursday, playing to a small but lively crowd who caught a treat of a set. I think in a year or two BuzzUniverse will be taking on one of the main stages of Vibes, despite a smaller crowd, they played their asses off, sweating well through their shirts and rocking out with the sun beating hard on their faces. This is my third time seeing them, but certainly wont be my last.

Groovesect Photos

2008-07-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

Do not forget to scroll down below the photos for Jessica's mini-review of the Groovesect set...

Groovesect

2008-07-31T15:49:00.000-07:00

The late afternoon sun was not the only thing burning up Seaside Park, site of Gathering of the Vibes 2008. The five piece "Groovesect" with their cutting edge nac for insatiable grooves and pure funk proved just as firey.
Groovesect's musical journey, rich in elements of contemporary jazz, soul and funk infuse their set list with nonstop groove to their audience's delight. Playing tracks from their recent 2007 album, "On the Brim" ( featuring Fred Wesely, former James Brown Band leader) "Groovesect" tirelessly showcases their ability to transition from bold compositional lines to inspired improvisations.
In "Right on Red" a new composition meanders through a slower spaced, loose groove. A guitar solo eventually spirals into climax and the arrangment comes to head with a more pronounced groove, faster tempo and more insistent phrasing.
Groovesect's saxophonist switches the character of the horn section from a heavy funk baritone to a more fluid alto, accordingly. "Moving Along" with its contemporary jazz feel features flute and guitar lines in unison an interesting combination.
No need for lyrics with this band, their funkiness inspire and communicate a groove like no other.

We're Ready to Roll...

2008-07-30T22:57:00.001-07:00

Well the speakers are up, the lights are set and we're ready to go. With less than 24 hours till the 2008 Gathering of the Vibes, everything seems set for another great festival. These will be the last pictures taken of the stage without people both on and in front of the stage. Make sure to stay tuned to this blog during the fest for set recaps/reviews, pictures and hopefully some videos, different than from the web cast.

Printable Schedule - PDF

2008-07-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

We've uploaded a printable schedule for both stages of this years vibes, which you can download here

Watch Vibes From Home

2008-07-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

If you can't make it out to Seaside Park for this years Vibes, there will be an online web cast, click the image to the right to watch. Here is a tentative schedule...

Thursday, July 31st
8:00 - 8:45 - Reid Genauer, Solo Acoustic (2002)
8:45 - 10:15 - Deep Banana Blackout (2007)
10:15 - 11:45 - moe. (2000)

Friday August 1st
12:00pm - King for a Day
1:25pm - American Babies
2:50pm - Ryan Montbleau Band
4:15pm - Porter Batiste Stoltz
5:40pm - Assembly of Dust
7:10pm - First Set of DSO (from Thursday night)
9:00pm - Deep Banana Blackout
10:45pm - The Black Crowes

Saturday August 2nd
11:00am - Alternate Routes
12:45pm - Strangefolk
2:30pm - New Riders of the Purple Sage
4:15pm - Bill Kreutzmann Trio
6:00pm - First Set of DSO (from Thursday night)
7:30pm - Groovesect (from Thursday night)
9:00pm - Phil Lesh & Friends

Sunday August 3rd
11:00am - Organically Grown Gospel Choir
12:15pm - Jackie Greene
1:45pm - TBA
3:15pm - Donna Jean & the Tricksters (from Thursday night)
4:45pm - Umphrey's McGee
6:30pm - The Neville Brothers

Directions for Campers, Non Campers and Single Ticket Holders...

2008-07-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Each one of these is an image, so right click and save it to your computer to print. Safe travels!

Monday Update - Three Days Left...

2008-07-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

A lot of work got done in the last two days, including the setup of a second stage, lights on both stages, the VIP tent has been populated with very comfy couches and the VIP viewing platform, which is much closer to the main stage than it was last year, so those lucky VIPs this year should be very happy with the closeness to the stage (see picture below).

Weekend Setup Update...

2008-07-27T18:50:00.000-07:00

Setup continued over the weekend, did not get up there today (Sunday) but was there yesterday and you could see the stage getting setup in front of the band shell and some of the tents being put up, including the sound booth and the VIP tent.

CONNpost.com - "A heads-up for Gathering of the Vibes"

2008-07-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

A little pre-festival press from the Connecticut Post, giving some pre-fest planning ideas...

"The Gathering of the Vibes is returning to Bridgeport's beautiful Seaside Park for a second straight year July 31 through Aug. 3 and will feature a variety of big-time musical acts, as well as a full slate of local performers.

The festival was founded as a tribute to the late Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia, so naturally there are a few acts coming that spun off from that band - such as Phil Lesh & Friends, The Bill Kreutzmann Trio and Donna Jean and the Tricksters....

Click here to read the rest of the article.

6 Days and Counting...

2008-07-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

Went up to Seaside Park after work today to see what progress had been made and as you can see below, quite a bit of progress has already happened in just one day. I left the park at around 8pm and the guys (and gals) were still working. With only 6 days until the Thursday kickoff, there is a lot of work left to be done, but seeing how hard these guys are working Vibes should kick off on Thursday with no problems.

Setup Begins

2008-07-25T15:06:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 24.

Vibes Stage Lineup Announced

2008-07-24T15:25:00.001-07:00

Vibes Food Drive - help out and win prizes!

2008-07-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Vibe Tribe! We are excited to announce that the Gathering of the Vibes will once again host a large non-perishable food and hygiene item drive. The proceeds from this year’s drive will go to two local food banks, the Bridgeport Office of Veterans Affairs Food Pantry and the Bridgeport Department on Aging Food Pantry.

Here are some examples of acceptable high demand non-perishable items:
*Baby formula
*Baby food
*Canned vegetables
*Canned soups
*Canned non-perishable meat
*Pasta and sauce
*Macaroni & cheese

Here are some examples of acceptable high demand personal hygiene products:
*Deodorant
*Soap
*Shampoo
*Shaving products
*Toothbrushes & toothpaste
*Mouthwash
*Q-tips
*Diapers
*Sanitary pads

Please keep in mind that GOTV has a NO GLASS policy, and it is applicable to your donations as well.

Those who donate items over the course of the weekend will become eligible to win several prizes including a pair of tickets to next year’s Gathering of the Vibes Festival to the person that brings the largest donation by weight. Other available prizes include a pair of tickets to the Wormtown Music Festival in Greenfield, MA in September and a pair of tickets to the StrangeCreek Campout in Greenfield, MA in May. There is no size limit to your donation to become eligible for prizes. However, you must drop off your donation at the main food drive donation station in the NPO Village in order to become eligible for prizes.

The primary food and hygiene drive collection station will be located in the Non-Profit Organization Village within East Camping. We encouraged you all to stop by throughout the course of the weekend to drop off donations and learn more about the many other non-profit organizations being represented at the festival. In addition to the primary NPO Village location, an unstaffed donation station will be located in West Camping, likely close to camping headquarters. This will allow those of you with smaller donations or those not wishing to collect prizes to drop off items closer to their camping area. Unstaffed donation stations will also be located at each exit this year to give you a chance to drop off any unused and unopened non-perishable food or hygiene products as you leave the festival grounds.

Remember it’s always a wonderful thing to give back to what gives to you. So lets all give back to the Bridgeport community for allowing us to come back to Seaside Park for this year’s GOTV.

Any questions regarding this drive can be directed to Harry Moran – Festival NPO Coordinator – email: harry@GatheringoftheVibes.com

Help Spread the Word

2008-07-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

If you're willing to help spread the word on the 2008 vibes by handing out flyers, We're more than happy to send you a stack, especially if you're hitting up some shows in the next couple weeks. They came out great this year and are printed entirely with vegetable inks on 100% Recycled Paper. Please just send us an email with your contact info & what shows you'll be going to here: streetteam@gatheringofthevibes.com

Connecticut Post Article on Vibes Through 2012

2008-07-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

From connpost.com: 'Vibes' in 5-year deal with Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT — The city has inked a deal to bring the Gathering of Vibes arts and music festival to Seaside Park for the next five years.

Mayor Bill Finch, announcing the contract today, saying the four-day summer concert and camping fest has become an important part of the city's redevelopment.

"The Vibes is an exceptional addition to Bridgeport's blossoming arts and entertainment scene, and is an opportunity to showcase the Park City to thousands of out-of-town guests throughout the country," Finch said.

Bob Kennedy, a spokesman for the festival, said there are many reasons why organizers wanted to remain in Bridgeport, where the festival was staged last year as well as several years at the turn of the decade. Tens of thousands of people turned out for the Vibes slate of concerts, both as day trippers or camping out for the entire event in Seaside Park.

"I'm a Bridgeport resident, so this hits home for me. Bridgeport is an up-and-coming city and it has a vibrant artistic scene. It seems great for us to team up," Kennedy said.

Vibes Executive Director Ken Hays added, "It's a privilege to call Seaside Park home for five years."

Kennedy pointed out that the festival filled area hotels and organizers and participants poured tens of thousands of dollars into the local economy.

The year's festival, scheduled for July 31 to Aug. 3, will feature acts such as the Neville Brothers, the Black Crowes, Phil Leash and Friends, formerly of the Grateful Dead, and Deep Banana Blackout, which got its start in Bridgeport.

In all, 40 bands will perform on three stages in the 370-acre waterfront park. Camping sites will be available throughout the venue.

A "Green Vibes" initiative is planned as part of the event, aimed at educating festival goers about climate change issues. Some of the acts will perform on a stage powered only by solar panels.

A variety of arts and crafts will be on display throughout the festival, and shuttle buses will be available to move the attendees from hotels and to the Bridgeport Port-Jefferson ferry depot and the railroad station.

This year's festival is the fourth Gathering of the Vibes held at Seaside Park. About 20,000 people per day attended last year's festival, listening to groups such as Buddy Guy, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic and the Grateful Dead's Bob Weir.

Vibes In Brideport Through 2012

2008-07-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

From Jambands.com...

Bridgeport, CT Mayor Bill Finch will sign a five-year contract with the Gathering of the Vibes to keep the festival at Seaside Park through the summer of 2012 (which according to the Mayan calendar and most members of STS9 is when the world will change, anyhow). The annual gathering took place in Bridgeport in 1999 and 2000, before moving to upstate New York for a number of years. The Vibes returned to Bridgeport last summer and will be held in Seaside Park from July 31-August 3 later this summer. The confirmed line-up includes Phil Lesh and Friends, The Black Crowes, Mike Gordon, Sam Bush Band, Kreutzmann Burbridge and Murawski, Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi's Soul Stew Revival, The Neville Brothers, Porter Batiste Stoltz, Assembly of Dust, Dark Star Orchestra, Deep Banana Blackout, Donna Jean & The Tricksters, Jackie Greene Band, New Riders of the Purple Sage, Strangefolk, Ryan Montbleau Band and Zappa Plays Zappa.