The Kellys — onstage and feelin' a lotta love
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The Kellys performed at the Warren Community Amphitheatre with a professional orchestra
One week ago, The Kellys hosted the ruKus Festival and sang the glory of the Warren Community Amphitheatre.
Friday night, the Amphitheatre gave them back that love.
The Kellys performed four original songs with the professional musicians in an orchestra as part of Generation Us. Las Vegas R&B singer Treasure Guffy began the night, standing out with her localized rendition of "My Favorite Things."
Headlining the night was Gary Puckett of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap Band, who performed originals and covers.
But standing out was the local rock group, who looked oddly comfortable in front of the orchestra.
Lead singer Kelly McCracken started a little shaky, beginning the set with a few measures a capella. Then the show started, as she sang over the 31-piece orchestra for the intro of their first song, "That Day." Several bars in, the orchestra kicked in a ska-like melody and the rock-classical performance began.
They continued the set with their song, "Up to Believe." The songs were arranged by Howland graduate Mariano Longo, who coordinated the show.
The Kellys only had one rehearsal to learn the songs with the orchestra, the night before the performance. But with few errors and strong technique, the band proved they could keep up.
The band's third song, "Make Her," was performed without the help of the orchestra, but with McCracken's strong vocals The Kellys proved they could handle the stage themselves.
McCracken handled the stage well in orchestra black and a red tie. Her confidence grew as the set continued, until her onstage antics and dancing resembled any other performance by The Kellys.
The Kellys closed with their song "Red Wine." Afterward, the professional musicians approached the band with compliments and handshakes as the members of The Kellys glowed.
Not everyone likes The Kellys, or even should like The Kellys, but Friday night proved they are musically capable.
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as far as im concerned the kellys were in fact the only good band that was at vexfest.
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