Summer in the Northeast? Be at Mountain Jam

Mountain Jam represents the epitome gathering of rock, folk and jam bands in the Northeast. Performed in the beautiful setting of upstate New York’s Hunter Mountain (approximately one hour north of Albany) on June 4-6, it brings a great mix of classic and new artists alike to the stage. Though there are some obvious performers to look forward to this year (Gov’t Mule, The Avett Brothers, Michael Franti & Spearhead and Matisyahu to name a few) I would like to turn your attention to some of my favorite bands that are playing at this festival  who you may not have heard of, but who you will absolutely love and enjoy at Mountain Jam.

Toots and the Maytals
The inventors of the word “reggae” (seriously, their first hit song is called “Do the Reggay”), Toots and the Maytals are legends in the world of reggae. Performing since the 1960s, Toots and the Maytals still retain many of its founding members, including now- 65-year-old front man Frederick “Toots” Hibbert. Authentic Jamaican reggae at its absolute finest.
Tracks to try:
“Pressure Drop”
“Do the Reggay”

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
I first saw this soulful band open for Brett Dennen this past December and was simply blown away. Get ready for Grace’s spectacularly powerful voice and some upbeat funky blues meshed with rock that will make you want to dance. The band as a whole, especially Grace, has excellent stage presence and is fun to experience live.
Tracks to try:
“Nothing But the Water, Pt. 2”
“Treat Me Right”

Dr. Dog
Best described as slightly psychedelic indie rock, the band Dr. Dog has quite an extensive and eclectic discography spanning the past 10 years. I can only hope that they will feature many tracks from their new, excellent album Shame, Shame, released earlier this year.
Tracks to try:
“Later”
“Hang On”

Animal Liberation Orchestra
Featured earlier this year in an interview on USD Radio, Animal Liberation Orchestra (ALO) is one of the newest additions to Jack Johnson’s Brushfire Records label, and they fit right in with the label’s focus on rock jam bands. Expect and enjoy fun, happy music that will embody the summery atmosphere of the festival perfectly.
Tracks to try:
“Shapeshifter”
“Spectrum”

Tickets (single and three-day packages offered) and camping passes are still available at mountainjam.frontgatetickets.com, and more information is available at mountainjam.com.