Positive Mental Trip

This was my first Rock n Roll Resort and I was in no way disappointed. I had heard initially mixed reviews online and from friends, so I decided to check it out for myself — and I don’t think I have ever had such an intimate music festival experience in my life. This is one of those festivals that didn’t fly by in a blink of an eye, as I savored every moment and remained care-free the entire time. The fact that the festival took place inside a resort made the usual festival worries nonexistent. Many times when I go to a festival, there is some stress along with the expected fun. Not once did I worry about a long walk to a stage, carrying gear, setting up a tent, cooking meals, and I never waited in single line all weekend. IMG_7080There was even food included, which the crowds said was much better than last year. Magic Hat was the beer sponsor and they kept it flowing! Along with the scheduled breakfast, lunch, and dinners, there was a food vendor outside 24/7 busting their butts to keep everyone’s tummies full of creative, overstuffed sandwiches and irresistible pizza combinations. Shout out to Phatboyz and the Gouda Boys for keeping the food grinding out all weekend. There was also a general store with anything anyone could have possibly forgotten at home, and I always had a comfy place to lay my head at night (although I did not sleep much). Music of every genre was around every corner throughout the weekend, and there was always something to do to occupy any down-time. There was a mini-golf tournament, disc-golf tournament, art gallery, yoga, and even an indoor pool! Checking into the venue and the room was probably one of the easiest festival arrivals I have ever experienced; no lines, no confusion, and everyone was super friendly.IMG_6752

The festival started with a bang as the opening band Scooter Dude brought down the house with a reggae groove that pulled everyone within hearing distance to the grand ballroom stage. Magnificent chandeliers hung from the ceiling and lasers beamed refracting in all directions. This reggae groove does not define their eclectic funky sound though, as they followed up the rasta tune with funky originals that jammed far and hard with teasers and creative originals. Within their set I heard Pink Floyd’s “Breathe” and a mash up of both Kool and The Gang’s “Ladies Night” and The Grateful Dead’s “Feel Like a Stranger.”

IMG_6818

Their set also had hand-drum sit-ins by Luke Weiler of Positive Mental Trip (who also played a killer set this weekend), and the bass player switched out to the electric drum pad while they keyboardist kept that bass groove underneath them. They kept the crowd enticed and entertained, and really started off the festival on the right foot (as well as the left foot!) because everyone was dancing.

After the opening set I went and checked out guitar prodigy Bobby Paltauf and Jen Durkin of Deep Banana Blackout perform at the Acoustic Stage. His talent at such a young age always blows my mind, and her voice always sends chills down my spine. I had heard them perform together at the Capitol Theater a few weeks before RNRR so when I heard they were doing an acoustic set, I was more than thrilled! This stage was right in the lobby and everyday you could find a little dance party there that grew and grew every time someone passed by it. Even Jordan Simms of The Everyone Orchestra lead an all-star jam right there in the lobby!
IMG_6870Since I had arrived, dropped my belongings, and went straight to the music, I decided to run up and check out the room and decompress a bit. When I got there I was informed that the music would be going until 7am each night/morning/whatever you want to call it. I wanted to be rested up for the nights of music and dancing ahead. Our room was huge, very clean, and with a big queen bed and a scenic view of the Catskill Mountains and the River. In no way did I think it would be a romantic weekend but to my surprise it was!

The Manhattan Theater at RNRR was such a cool room. It had a huge stage with screened visuals to the left and right of it, where crazy overlapping projections of the performance and trippy images were displayed. There was a huge dance floor up at the front and the back of the theater was seated with conference-like table seating which made chilling with a drink appealing. The stage was visible from all angles, and the room had a doorway to another stage, The Empire Lounge which made switching from music set to music set super easy. The Empire Lounge had a decent sized dance floor with a bar lining the back wall. The last room was the Grand Ballroom which had a breathtaking chandelier and the perimeter was surrounded by comfy couches you could sink your body into when your dancing feet gave out. The layout of the entire event was one of the highlights: you couldn’t really lose your friends unless they were up in the room somewhere. The Shakedown Street filled with unique vendors was right in the center of it all. The hotel even featured a cigar lounge where you could find people playing pool and getting in a good chill session. One of the vendors you should totally check out is Third Eye Pinecones. These one-of-a-kind pieces of art and nature are otherworldly. I personally own one myself and have never received more compliments on a piece of jewelry in my life.IMG_6571

The first night I saw BRYAC Funk Allstars, featuring members of Kung Fu and Deep Banana Blackout hit the Manhattan Ballroom. I then ran to catch a glimpse of Peter Prince & The Trama Unit and boy did they know how to hit the high notes with ease! Dumpstaphunk followed up and they really brought the heavy bass line that night. I was sitting next to Jen Durkin and she was explaining to me that the impressive female drummer and vocalist had toured with Beyonce in her all-female band. After she had finished her sentence, the drink she was drinking actually vibrated off the table and into her lap from the bass in the room. I was blown away by what she had told me and what had just happened. Dumpstaphunks set incorporated some crowd hand clapping and they dedicated a song to “those who don’t know what they have till its gone.” They really engaged the audience. They closed the set with a cover of “Vivrant Thing” by Q-Tip mashed up with “Immigrant Song” which got me hot and ready to check out TAUK in the other room. I have been hearing a lot lately about this NY-based band and was eager to check them out. I found their guitar jamming to be super danceable. If I had to pick a trippy wedding band, I would want them. They played a Beatles cover of “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” which I fell in love with.IMG_6385

Cosmic Karma Fire performed outside the front doors of the hotel every night. Honestly, they are part of the reason I decided to attend this festival. I have seen them perform numerous times at festivals such as Gathering of the Vibes and Mountain Jam, and every time I see them I am thoroughly blown away! They don’t just play with fire; they eat it, spit it, breath it, spin it, throw it, and even bike it?! You can really tell when they are performing that this is their passion and they are truly dedicated to this art. On every occasion, they put on such organized performances where they put their safety at risk but never ignore the importance of the crowd’s safety. I never thought I wouldn’t be afraid when people are throwing balls of fire in my direction. Cosmic Greg does an excellent job in leading and organizing this amazingly talented band of fire freaks! When asking Greg, “What’s the worst part about being a fire dancer?” he comically replied “Telling your dad you’re a flamer!” I uncontrollably snorted with laughter.

After a night of partying and dancing, Saturday’s wake-up was pretty hard but I just had to get down and see some more music. I took it easy in the beginning and took a seat on the floor at the acoustic stage listening to Leroy Justice with a Bloody Mary in one hand and a coffee in the other. After that I started to hear something kind of “phishy” coming from the Manhattan Theater. It just so happened to be 7 Below a Phish tribute band who helped kick start my day and get me dancing again. Every night at RNRR had a theme; the first night was time eras, the last night was a pajama party, and Saturday night (my favorite) was superhero/villain themed. The costumes were crazy as well as the people that were inside them. There was even a vendor doing some of the most intricate face painting I’ve ever seen.IMG_6812

I found myself wandering into the Political Animals in the Grand Ballroom where they were spitting rhymes and a lovely female bassist was slapping it hard. They seemed to grab a little hip-hop feel from every time period. Solaris was up after in the Grand Ballroom and they are a personal favorite of mine. They are one of the few fully instrumental bands that I enjoy and are a super talented bunch. I got to check them out at last year’s Catskill Chill and was thoroughly impressed. My favorite type of music lately has been jam-tronica, so the Cosmic Dust Bunnies (I love their name) really filled that void for me. Adding some keys and synthesizers into the classic instruments really gets a crowd moving. Roots of Creation was a band that reminded me of a mix of Sublime and Rage Against the Machine with a unique synthy sound. They had great vocal harmonies and an awesome horns section.

I was super stoked for Everyone Orchestra that night. I had never seen them before and was bummed that I missed their show at BK Bowl the week before. This orchestra conducted by Matt Butler featured Steve Kimock, John Morgan Kimock, Reed Mathis, Jennifer Hartswick, Natalie Cressman and other surprise guests. Jen Durkin belted it out with the chorus for a few songs. This set was an improvisational journey of epic proportions to say the least. I love how this group deeply encourages audience interaction, and everyone in the Manhattan Theater participated in the fun. I flowed to the next few rooms to take a listen to Business Casual Disco and Cabinet before the highly anticipated two sets from The Motet. I had never seen both the Empire Lounge and Grand Ballroom this packed all weekend. Partying was in full force, both rooms super dance-partied out but each having a totally different feel. At Cabinet some hyped-up bluegrass dancing was taking place and at BCD a house disco party was the main event. The Motets’ two sets in the Manhattan theater was where I finally realized this wasn’t your ordinary music festival. I looked around and saw a crowd of people and realized how intimate this weekend could be. I saw so many familiar faces dancing in the crowd. I didn’t personally know the majority of them but spending a weekend together everyone developed a bond of smiles, waves to say hello, and dancing.IMG_6858

Sunday morning I slept in and woke up for the brunch which was really tasty! The day was filled with much warmer weather and a lot of sunshine. It seemed like everyone was outside exploring the hotel grounds and taking in the rays. I was saving my last bit of energy for the two Turkuaz sets later that day. Turkuaz has become one of my favorite acts to see live. They really know how to command the stage and keep the attention of the audience. Synchronized dance moves and hand gestures, smoking hot back up singers who can shake the hell out of a tambourine, and talented musicians make up this funky musical army. They have a stage presence like no other and serious charisma. Unfortunately I did not get to stay for the Super Jam at the end of the night. I talked to a bunch of my friends who were there and they told me it was awesome! IMG_7261

I can without a doubt say that this past weekend will go down in history as one of the greatest musical experiences of my life! Serious round of applause for the staff, venue, and all the people it took to make Rock n Roll Resort happen! I’m already looking forward to the next round of fun!



CHECK OUT ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THIS WEEKEND FROM PATRICK HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY

IMG_6827 IMG_5245 _MG_5241
IMG_6793 IMG_7240 IMG_5357
IMG_5243 IMG_7162 IMG_6533
IMG_5162 IMG_6929 IMG_6768
IMG_6571 IMG_7359 IMG_5303
IMG_5372 IMG_6739 IMG_6546
IMG_5381 IMG_7089 IMG_6849
IMG_6673 IMG_6539 IMG_7078
IMG_5306 IMG_6764 IMG_5410
IMG_5325 IMG_7331 IMG_6627
IMG_7128 IMG_5196 IMG_5422
IMG_6853 IMG_6865 IMG_6957
IMG_5388 IMG_5369 IMG_6816
IMG_7075 IMG_7272 IMG_6321
_MG_5217 IMG_6709 IMG_7319
IMG_5273 IMG_6835 IMG_6632
IMG_5426 IMG_6922 IMG_7186
IMG_7045 IMG_7031 IMG_6422
IMG_6977 IMG_6713 IMG_7164
IMG_6729 IMG_6665 IMG_6938
IMG_6728 IMG_5378 IMG_6527
IMG_6895 IMG_6544 IMG_7394
IMG_6780 IMG_6599 IMG_5299
IMG_6823 IMG_6426 IMG_6411
IMG_5352 IMG_7386 IMG_6752
IMG_7108 IMG_6606 IMG_6758
IMG_5311 IMG_7374 IMG_6548
IMG_5301 IMG_6725 IMG_5177
IMG_6593 IMG_6876 IMG_7092
IMG_6513 IMG_5394 IMG_6611
IMG_5382 IMG_6812 IMG_7167
IMG_7261 IMG_6949 IMG_5173
IMG_5285 IMG_5415 IMG_7343
IMG_6385 IMG_7377 IMG_6951
IMG_6541 IMG_6526 IMG_7185
IMG_6837 IMG_7410 IMG_7113
IMG_7316 IMG_7287 IMG_7049
IMG_6903 IMG_6683 IMG_7330
IMG_7090 IMG_7085 IMG_7349
IMG_5262 IMG_6818 IMG_6879
IMG_6730 IMG_6833 IMG_6496
IMG_6676 IMG_7370 IMG_6741
IMG_5351 IMG_6893 _MG_5233
IMG_7125 IMG_7346 IMG_6590
IMG_5375 IMG_7039 IMG_6572
_MG_5212 IMG_7091 IMG_7282
IMG_6700 IMG_6615 IMG_5368
IMG_7116 IMG_5321 IMG_6697
IMG_5342 IMG_6870 _MG_5228
IMG_5191 IMG_5242 IMG_6488
IMG_6852 IMG_5365 IMG_6677
IMG_7014 IMG_5409 IMG_6345
IMG_6858 _MG_5230 IMG_6369
IMG_6680 IMG_6379 IMG_6800
IMG_7249 _MG_5238 IMG_7413
IMG_6795 IMG_7245 IMG_6792
IMG_6718 IMG_7215 IMG_5298
IMG_5373 IMG_5145 IMG_6519
IMG_6896 IMG_6910 IMG_5439
IMG_7015 IMG_6626 IMG_6656
_MG_5214 IMG_6556 IMG_5398
IMG_5377 IMG_6748 IMG_7371
IMG_6506 IMG_7307 IMG_6761
IMG_5157 IMG_7134 IMG_6872
IMG_6777 IMG_6907 IMG_6583
IMG_5256 IMG_6569 IMG_7291
IMG_6830 IMG_7012 IMG_5350
_MG_5234 IMG_7147 IMG_5436
IMG_6607 IMG_6500 IMG_6648
IMG_7026 IMG_5362 IMG_6790
IMG_6722 IMG_6498 IMG_6841
IMG_6467 IMG_6641 IMG_6987
IMG_6643 IMG_6580 IMG_7087
IMG_6573 IMG_5253 IMG_7066
IMG_6352 IMG_7340 IMG_5343
IMG_6781 IMG_6899 IMG_7080





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about the author: Kathryn Korcz - Kathryn Kortz www.sensiblereason.com festival news

This was my first Rock n Roll Resort and I was in no way disappointed. I had heard initially mixed reviews online and from friends, so I decided to check it out for myself — and I don’t think I have ever had such an intimate music festival experience in my life. This is one of those festivals that didn’t fly by in a blink of an eye, as I savored every moment and remained care-free the entire time. The fact that the festival took place inside a resort made the usual festival worries nonexistent. Many times when I go to a festival, there is some stress along with the expected fun. Not once did I worry about a long walk to a stage, carrying gear, setting up a tent, cooking meals, and I never waited in single line all weekend. IMG_7080There was even food included, which the crowds said was much better than last year. Magic Hat was the beer sponsor and they kept it flowing! Along with the scheduled breakfast, lunch, and dinners, there was a food vendor outside 24/7 busting their butts to keep everyone’s tummies full of creative, overstuffed sandwiches and irresistible pizza combinations. Shout out to Phatboyz and the Gouda Boys for keeping the food grinding out all weekend. There was also a general store with anything anyone could have possibly forgotten at home, and I always had a comfy place to lay my head at night (although I did not sleep much). Music of every genre was around every corner throughout the weekend, and there was always something to do to occupy any down-time. There was a mini-golf tournament, disc-golf tournament, art gallery, yoga, and even an indoor pool! Checking into the venue and the room was probably one of the easiest festival arrivals I have ever experienced; no lines, no confusion, and everyone was super friendly.IMG_6752

The festival started with a bang as the opening band Scooter Dude brought down the house with a reggae groove that pulled everyone within hearing distance to the grand ballroom stage. Magnificent chandeliers hung from the ceiling and lasers beamed refracting in all directions. This reggae groove does not define their eclectic funky sound though, as they followed up the rasta tune with funky originals that jammed far and hard with teasers and creative originals. Within their set I heard Pink Floyd’s “Breathe” and a mash up of both Kool and The Gang’s “Ladies Night” and The Grateful Dead’s “Feel Like a Stranger.”

IMG_6818

Their set also had hand-drum sit-ins by Luke Weiler of Positive Mental Trip (who also played a killer set this weekend), and the bass player switched out to the electric drum pad while they keyboardist kept that bass groove underneath them. They kept the crowd enticed and entertained, and really started off the festival on the right foot (as well as the left foot!) because everyone was dancing.

After the opening set I went and checked out guitar prodigy Bobby Paltauf and Jen Durkin of Deep Banana Blackout perform at the Acoustic Stage. His talent at such a young age always blows my mind, and her voice always sends chills down my spine. I had heard them perform together at the Capitol Theater a few weeks before RNRR so when I heard they were doing an acoustic set, I was more than thrilled! This stage was right in the lobby and everyday you could find a little dance party there that grew and grew every time someone passed by it. Even Jordan Simms of The Everyone Orchestra lead an all-star jam right there in the lobby!
IMG_6870Since I had arrived, dropped my belongings, and went straight to the music, I decided to run up and check out the room and decompress a bit. When I got there I was informed that the music would be going until 7am each night/morning/whatever you want to call it. I wanted to be rested up for the nights of music and dancing ahead. Our room was huge, very clean, and with a big queen bed and a scenic view of the Catskill Mountains and the River. In no way did I think it would be a romantic weekend but to my surprise it was!

The Manhattan Theater at RNRR was such a cool room. It had a huge stage with screened visuals to the left and right of it, where crazy overlapping projections of the performance and trippy images were displayed. There was a huge dance floor up at the front and the back of the theater was seated with conference-like table seating which made chilling with a drink appealing. The stage was visible from all angles, and the room had a doorway to another stage, The Empire Lounge which made switching from music set to music set super easy. The Empire Lounge had a decent sized dance floor with a bar lining the back wall. The last room was the Grand Ballroom which had a breathtaking chandelier and the perimeter was surrounded by comfy couches you could sink your body into when your dancing feet gave out. The layout of the entire event was one of the highlights: you couldn’t really lose your friends unless they were up in the room somewhere. The Shakedown Street filled with unique vendors was right in the center of it all. The hotel even featured a cigar lounge where you could find people playing pool and getting in a good chill session. One of the vendors you should totally check out is Third Eye Pinecones. These one-of-a-kind pieces of art and nature are otherworldly. I personally own one myself and have never received more compliments on a piece of jewelry in my life.IMG_6571

The first night I saw BRYAC Funk Allstars, featuring members of Kung Fu and Deep Banana Blackout hit the Manhattan Ballroom. I then ran to catch a glimpse of Peter Prince & The Trama Unit and boy did they know how to hit the high notes with ease! Dumpstaphunk followed up and they really brought the heavy bass line that night. I was sitting next to Jen Durkin and she was explaining to me that the impressive female drummer and vocalist had toured with Beyonce in her all-female band. After she had finished her sentence, the drink she was drinking actually vibrated off the table and into her lap from the bass in the room. I was blown away by what she had told me and what had just happened. Dumpstaphunks set incorporated some crowd hand clapping and they dedicated a song to “those who don’t know what they have till its gone.” They really engaged the audience. They closed the set with a cover of “Vivrant Thing” by Q-Tip mashed up with “Immigrant Song” which got me hot and ready to check out TAUK in the other room. I have been hearing a lot lately about this NY-based band and was eager to check them out. I found their guitar jamming to be super danceable. If I had to pick a trippy wedding band, I would want them. They played a Beatles cover of “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” which I fell in love with.IMG_6385

Cosmic Karma Fire performed outside the front doors of the hotel every night. Honestly, they are part of the reason I decided to attend this festival. I have seen them perform numerous times at festivals such as Gathering of the Vibes and Mountain Jam, and every time I see them I am thoroughly blown away! They don’t just play with fire; they eat it, spit it, breath it, spin it, throw it, and even bike it?! You can really tell when they are performing that this is their passion and they are truly dedicated to this art. On every occasion, they put on such organized performances where they put their safety at risk but never ignore the importance of the crowd’s safety. I never thought I wouldn’t be afraid when people are throwing balls of fire in my direction. Cosmic Greg does an excellent job in leading and organizing this amazingly talented band of fire freaks! When asking Greg, “What’s the worst part about being a fire dancer?” he comically replied “Telling your dad you’re a flamer!” I uncontrollably snorted with laughter.

After a night of partying and dancing, Saturday’s wake-up was pretty hard but I just had to get down and see some more music. I took it easy in the beginning and took a seat on the floor at the acoustic stage listening to Leroy Justice with a Bloody Mary in one hand and a coffee in the other. After that I started to hear something kind of “phishy” coming from the Manhattan Theater. It just so happened to be 7 Below a Phish tribute band who helped kick start my day and get me dancing again. Every night at RNRR had a theme; the first night was time eras, the last night was a pajama party, and Saturday night (my favorite) was superhero/villain themed. The costumes were crazy as well as the people that were inside them. There was even a vendor doing some of the most intricate face painting I’ve ever seen.IMG_6812

I found myself wandering into the Political Animals in the Grand Ballroom where they were spitting rhymes and a lovely female bassist was slapping it hard. They seemed to grab a little hip-hop feel from every time period. Solaris was up after in the Grand Ballroom and they are a personal favorite of mine. They are one of the few fully instrumental bands that I enjoy and are a super talented bunch. I got to check them out at last year’s Catskill Chill and was thoroughly impressed. My favorite type of music lately has been jam-tronica, so the Cosmic Dust Bunnies (I love their name) really filled that void for me. Adding some keys and synthesizers into the classic instruments really gets a crowd moving. Roots of Creation was a band that reminded me of a mix of Sublime and Rage Against the Machine with a unique synthy sound. They had great vocal harmonies and an awesome horns section.

I was super stoked for Everyone Orchestra that night. I had never seen them before and was bummed that I missed their show at BK Bowl the week before. This orchestra conducted by Matt Butler featured Steve Kimock, John Morgan Kimock, Reed Mathis, Jennifer Hartswick, Natalie Cressman and other surprise guests. Jen Durkin belted it out with the chorus for a few songs. This set was an improvisational journey of epic proportions to say the least. I love how this group deeply encourages audience interaction, and everyone in the Manhattan Theater participated in the fun. I flowed to the next few rooms to take a listen to Business Casual Disco and Cabinet before the highly anticipated two sets from The Motet. I had never seen both the Empire Lounge and Grand Ballroom this packed all weekend. Partying was in full force, both rooms super dance-partied out but each having a totally different feel. At Cabinet some hyped-up bluegrass dancing was taking place and at BCD a house disco party was the main event. The Motets’ two sets in the Manhattan theater was where I finally realized this wasn’t your ordinary music festival. I looked around and saw a crowd of people and realized how intimate this weekend could be. I saw so many familiar faces dancing in the crowd. I didn’t personally know the majority of them but spending a weekend together everyone developed a bond of smiles, waves to say hello, and dancing.IMG_6858

Sunday morning I slept in and woke up for the brunch which was really tasty! The day was filled with much warmer weather and a lot of sunshine. It seemed like everyone was outside exploring the hotel grounds and taking in the rays. I was saving my last bit of energy for the two Turkuaz sets later that day. Turkuaz has become one of my favorite acts to see live. They really know how to command the stage and keep the attention of the audience. Synchronized dance moves and hand gestures, smoking hot back up singers who can shake the hell out of a tambourine, and talented musicians make up this funky musical army. They have a stage presence like no other and serious charisma. Unfortunately I did not get to stay for the Super Jam at the end of the night. I talked to a bunch of my friends who were there and they told me it was awesome! IMG_7261

I can without a doubt say that this past weekend will go down in history as one of the greatest musical experiences of my life! Serious round of applause for the staff, venue, and all the people it took to make Rock n Roll Resort happen! I’m already looking forward to the next round of fun!



CHECK OUT ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THIS WEEKEND FROM PATRICK HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY

IMG_6827 IMG_5245 _MG_5241
IMG_6793 IMG_7240 IMG_5357
IMG_5243 IMG_7162 IMG_6533
IMG_5162 IMG_6929 IMG_6768
IMG_6571 IMG_7359 IMG_5303
IMG_5372 IMG_6739 IMG_6546
IMG_5381 IMG_7089 IMG_6849
IMG_6673 IMG_6539 IMG_7078
IMG_5306 IMG_6764 IMG_5410
IMG_5325 IMG_7331 IMG_6627
IMG_7128 IMG_5196 IMG_5422
IMG_6853 IMG_6865 IMG_6957
IMG_5388 IMG_5369 IMG_6816
IMG_7075 IMG_7272 IMG_6321
_MG_5217 IMG_6709 IMG_7319
IMG_5273 IMG_6835 IMG_6632
IMG_5426 IMG_6922 IMG_7186
IMG_7045 IMG_7031 IMG_6422
IMG_6977 IMG_6713 IMG_7164
IMG_6729 IMG_6665 IMG_6938
IMG_6728 IMG_5378 IMG_6527
IMG_6895 IMG_6544 IMG_7394
IMG_6780 IMG_6599 IMG_5299
IMG_6823 IMG_6426 IMG_6411
IMG_5352 IMG_7386 IMG_6752
IMG_7108 IMG_6606 IMG_6758
IMG_5311 IMG_7374 IMG_6548
IMG_5301 IMG_6725 IMG_5177
IMG_6593 IMG_6876 IMG_7092
IMG_6513 IMG_5394 IMG_6611
IMG_5382 IMG_6812 IMG_7167
IMG_7261 IMG_6949 IMG_5173
IMG_5285 IMG_5415 IMG_7343
IMG_6385 IMG_7377 IMG_6951
IMG_6541 IMG_6526 IMG_7185
IMG_6837 IMG_7410 IMG_7113
IMG_7316 IMG_7287 IMG_7049
IMG_6903 IMG_6683 IMG_7330
IMG_7090 IMG_7085 IMG_7349
IMG_5262 IMG_6818 IMG_6879
IMG_6730 IMG_6833 IMG_6496
IMG_6676 IMG_7370 IMG_6741
IMG_5351 IMG_6893 _MG_5233
IMG_7125 IMG_7346 IMG_6590
IMG_5375 IMG_7039 IMG_6572
_MG_5212 IMG_7091 IMG_7282
IMG_6700 IMG_6615 IMG_5368
IMG_7116 IMG_5321 IMG_6697
IMG_5342 IMG_6870 _MG_5228
IMG_5191 IMG_5242 IMG_6488
IMG_6852 IMG_5365 IMG_6677
IMG_7014 IMG_5409 IMG_6345
IMG_6858 _MG_5230 IMG_6369
IMG_6680 IMG_6379 IMG_6800
IMG_7249 _MG_5238 IMG_7413
IMG_6795 IMG_7245 IMG_6792
IMG_6718 IMG_7215 IMG_5298
IMG_5373 IMG_5145 IMG_6519
IMG_6896 IMG_6910 IMG_5439
IMG_7015 IMG_6626 IMG_6656
_MG_5214 IMG_6556 IMG_5398
IMG_5377 IMG_6748 IMG_7371
IMG_6506 IMG_7307 IMG_6761
IMG_5157 IMG_7134 IMG_6872
IMG_6777 IMG_6907 IMG_6583
IMG_5256 IMG_6569 IMG_7291
IMG_6830 IMG_7012 IMG_5350
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about the author: Kathryn Korcz - Sensible reason

2013 Jam For Tots Benefit Back for the 2013 Holiday Season
by Jenni Wilson
Jam for Tots is back for the 2013 Holiday season, this time helping donate toys to the Marines Corps Reserve Toys For Tots. The event will be held at a number of different places throughout New York State, with a number of different bands and musicians that are donating their time and effort to a great cause. The event will be put on by Luke Weiler of Positive Mental Trip and this will be his sixth year combining the efforts of local talents for the sake of charity.
“No child should go without a toy this holiday season. I hope everyone will make a special effort to come and help out. It will be a good time too,” Weiler commented. There will be 9 separate events this year, and each show will host a variety of different music genres including reggae, rock, funk and hip hop. At each event you may bring a toy worth five dollars or more, or pay a five dollar cover which will be used to buy a toy for USMC Reserve Toys for Tots program. Even if you cannot attend, stop by and drop off a toy in the donation box and make a child smile on Christmas morning.
Toys2010
Events for the 2013 Holiday season are:
Nov 1 – Cosmic Charlie’s 7722 Main Street Hunter, NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Nov 8 The Spinning Room 5975 Main Street Tannersville, NY Doors @ 7, Music @ 7:30
Nov 16 Cabaloosas/Oasis Cafe 58 Main Street, New Paltz , NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Nov 23 Liberty Public House 6417 Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck , NY Music @9
Dec 7 Fuller Road House 27 Fuller Road, Albany, NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Dec 13 Trexx Nightclub 319 N. Clinton Street, Syracuse, NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Dec 14 The Columbia 500 Columbia Street, Utica, NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Dec 17 Harmony Cafe- Wok n’ Roll 52 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock, NY Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Dec 20 Mill Street Brews 18 Mill Street Southbridge, Mass Doors @ 8, Music @ 9
Jam for Tots|Toys For Tots - Upstate live NY's Music Magazine

Luke Weiler is a busy man, between coordinating the annual Jam for Tots event to benefit the Marine Corp’s Toys for Tots fund, hosting PMT Festival in Northville, New York every summer to support Solid Rock Rescue, and caring for his appropriately named dog, Ruckus, Weiler makes music under the moniker, Positive Mental Trip. Recording with guitar, hand drums, synthesizer and a number of other instruments; Weiler’s music is inspired by everyone from the Simpsons’ Disco Stu to Mozart, according to his FaceBook page.

Positive Mental Trip’s debut album, “Change Your Mind” exemplifies this diverse range of influence, featuring genres like reggae, funk, folk and southern rock. Touching on feel-good themes throughout its twelve tracks, Weiler’s songwriting approach reminds listeners of Jack Johnson’s positive lyricism.
The album’s opening track, “Brand New Day” demonstrates this style with the lines, “So I put a smile on my face ‘Cause I’m livin’ a brand new day I’m not gonna be afraid of change” on top of smooth acoustic guitar riffs. Continuing the topic of leading life with a positive attitude, Change Your Mind includes two versions of the track, “Smile,” the second of which is titled “Smile (Hip-Hop).” Displaying Weiler’s ability to diversify his music, “Smile (Hip-Hop)” features a more electronic feel than its parallel track, “Smile (Reggae),” as well as a guest vocalist. Based on these tracks, along with the rest of the songs found on Change Your Mind, it’s safe to bet that Positive Mental Trip has a bright future ahead.
Key Tracks: Brand New Day, Smile (hip-hop), Smile (Reggae)
Follow Positive Mental Trip on Facebook | Jambase | Myspace - Upstate Live Music Magazine www.upstatelive.com

Luke Weiler is a busy man, between coordinating the annual Jam for Tots event to benefit the Marine Corp’s Toys for Tots fund, hosting PMT Festival in Northville, New York every summer to support Solid Rock Rescue, and caring for his appropriately named dog, Ruckus, Weiler makes music under the moniker, Positive Mental Trip. Recording with guitar, hand drums, synthesizer and a number of other instruments; Weiler’s music is inspired by everyone from the Simpsons’ Disco Stu to Mozart, according to his FaceBook page.

Positive Mental Trip’s debut album, “Change Your Mind” exemplifies this diverse range of influence, featuring genres like reggae, funk, folk and southern rock. Touching on feel-good themes throughout its twelve tracks, Weiler’s songwriting approach reminds listeners of Jack Johnson’s positive lyricism.
The album’s opening track, “Brand New Day” demonstrates this style with the lines, “So I put a smile on my face ‘Cause I’m livin’ a brand new day I’m not gonna be afraid of change” on top of smooth acoustic guitar riffs. Continuing the topic of leading life with a positive attitude, Change Your Mind includes two versions of the track, “Smile,” the second of which is titled “Smile (Hip-Hop).” Displaying Weiler’s ability to diversify his music, “Smile (Hip-Hop)” features a more electronic feel than its parallel track, “Smile (Reggae),” as well as a guest vocalist. Based on these tracks, along with the rest of the songs found on Change Your Mind, it’s safe to bet that Positive Mental Trip has a bright future ahead.
Key Tracks: Brand New Day, Smile (hip-hop), Smile (Reggae)
Follow Positive Mental Trip on Facebook | Jambase | Myspace - Upstate Live Music Magazine www.upstatelive.com

A Selection of Reviews

Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 06:34
I feel like Im in the islands, on the beach or in the Caribbean with this song. This song has a sort of retro-alternative sound.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 06:54
I like how this song starts with an island sound. The use of drums really adds to the uniqueness of this song. The fact that the
drums that are being used are not the normal type of drums really adds to the song. Its got a great beat that really makes you want
to tap your foot and bop your head to the beat. I feel really relaxed when I listen to this song. The lyrics are pretty basic but they
flow well with the musical score. The fact that they are singing about being happy really makes me like this song. Now a days
there are tons of songs that are sad and make you sad when you hear them its nice to hear a song that makes you happy when you
hear it. The vocals are really nice to listen to with this song. It seems that the music and the lyrics were wrote to be sung by this
singer. I do not think that any other artist would sound half as good singing this song. Great song with a catchy beat that really pulls
you in a great mood and makes you want to move when you hear it.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 07:34
This is a strong song and perfomance,a pro level artist.The melody is catchy and soulfull with a great guitar job.This song sounds
full and rich and its well arranged.The vocals all great and in tune matching the music perfectly.The guitar solo really gives the song
another dimension and sounds killer!The production is polished and clean.This song is distinctive and original and have a good
comercial chance
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 08:36
The skip this has in the rhythm is very well created as the acoustic styled mix delivers a punchy quirky pop melody.The singers
higher pitched vocal levels out this mix nicely and isquite ajoy to listen to.Not a bad idea for further development .Good acoustic feel to this,the rhythm is quite inventive.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 09:10
yes. jamaica lives. sitting on my desk and work a little bit. and when i look around i can see the beach in front of my garden. its very
nice. give me a cocktail and i can start the weekend. thanks to bob marley. he has made the reaggea music to this what it is today.
the offbeats from the guitar are nice. and the drums are going in a harmonic way to the guitar. and the voice...it fits to reaggea. the
song is absolutely great.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 09:53
Perfect for singalong. Good beat.
The band is balanced in the performance. The guitar solo in the end makes you wanna play air-guitar. My guess is that this is a
song that will be played several times during a party.
SoundOut page 8Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 10:59
Nice song, like the music itself. Has that Ska sound with a little jazz. Lyrics are fun with the two together makes this a very happy
song to listen to and sing along with. Its memorable. Vocals are strong, clear and vibrant.He actually sounds as though he's swaying
from side to side clapping his hands while singing this song. You can feel the involvement. This song has a lot of air time media
options that would make it a hit. Tv family sitcom, a toothpaste commercial. or a movie where the main character always puts on a
happy face for others while not so happy on the inside. i love it! Great job! Cant wait to hear it played else where for all to hear.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 14:41
This is a happy song! The tempo is really good and upbeat! Kind of reminds you of reggae or tropical island music! I like the vocals!
They are really good. He has a great voice! I love the instrumentals also! You can really understand the vocals even if they really
dont make sense. Just alot of randon ideas and thoughts I think. But it is still good!
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 16:03
I really like this quirky little track. Nice to hear some different lyrics for a change. The musical style is very different from anything
that's around at the moment. I like the pluckiness of the guitar playing. His voice is good and really clear. I think simply for it's
originality this song deserves some success.
Age: 35-44
01-Mar-2013 17:04
sweet instrumentals i - www.soundout.com

Jams for Tots – Give Back and Get Down
November 29, 2012 by Susan Rice
With the Holiday Season under way, there is no better time to help those who are less fortunate. For the past few years, Luke Weiler, aka Positive Mental Trip, has been spreading holiday cheer as well as musical jams around NY. Going on its 7th year, Jam for Tots teams up with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots to raise money and donate toys at shows. “Every kid should feel that someone cares enough about them to get them a present. That’s the reason we do this” Luke Weiler, Jam for Tots Coordinator. Each event hosts different musical acts and talents that play for free to support the cause. - Upstate Live www.upstatelive.com

Luke Weiler is an eccentric multi-instrumentalist, philanthropist, singer-songwriter, and the sole member of Positive Mental Trip. Weiler, who hails from the Catskills, has reinvented the idea of mountain music by injecting it with solid rhythms, an electro-folkie spirit and neo-psychedelic nuance. PMT's upbeat jams have been influenced by a census of sounds, including funk, reggae, punk, tribal, southern rock, classical, ragtime, blues, and polka, just to name a few. Weiler has played more than 250 shows since 2006, stopping off at coffeehouses, bars and festival sites all over the east coast. Positive Mental Trip is a band, a state of mind and, for Weiler, a mission statement. He hosts what he calls "Jam For Tots" which helps the US Marine Corp Toys for Tots campaign all over the country. He also puts on a PMT-Fest every May in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains and a portion of every ticket sold benefits charity. - Rochester City Newspaper