by Avalon Lee
What happens when XPN introduces Philadelphia to an extremely talented band and then welcomes them to the city to perform at Milkboy? A sold out show.
On February 2, Kopecky Family Band played to an eager audience of “so many people, yet so little places to put them,” as lead singer Gabe Simon exclaimed upon stepping out onto stage. The crowd was energetic and excited when Kopecky Family Band finally hit the stage, successfully warmed up by opening acts The Fleeting Ends and The Eastern Sea.
Unfortunately, Kelsey Kopecky had lost her voice before the sold out show due to a case of laryngitis – leaving most of the vocals to fellow lead singer, Gabe. Around me, I could hear devoted fans shouting above the music to their friends, “you need to buy the album and listen to it, Kelsey is amazing! Such a shame you can’t hear her sing tonight!” Indeed, it was a shame. However, what could have been a disaster was still a success with Gabe covering most of the vocals. And on the bright side, those of us who love to sing along to our favorite songs now had a reason to, as Gabe encouraged the crowd to help sing Kelsey’s muted lines.
Kopecky Family Band originates from Nashville, Tennessee. As their website explains, the band members are “connected not by blood or by heritage, but by circumstance”. Their family dynamic is obvious when you watch their chemistry onstage. Their versatility in instrumental skills was impressive, such as when lead singer Gabe swapped his guitar for a trombone and Kelsey switched up her keyboard with a bass. Their energy on stage transferred to the audience, and the crowd was dancing and singing along.
Before Kopecky Family Band hit the stage, local Philadelphia band The Fleeting Ends began the night, playing music off of their recently released album Our Eyes Are Peeled. Their music is upbeat and catchy, and quickly had those who had never previous listened to them tapping their feet and dancing along.
Next up was Austin, Texas band The Eastern Sea. Their music was beautiful, and lead singer Matt Hines took my breath away with the first note he sang. Apparently I wasn’t the only one affected, as the crowd instantly settled down, listening intently and in awe.
Although the night did not showcase Kopecky Family Band’s finest performance, the way they had pulled through and worked together brought forth a greater appreciation for the band. Despite it all, the crowd was enthusiastic and everyone enjoyed the performance.
