Root Shock w/s/g Stephen Phillips

Root Shock

Conscious, soulful, even healing—that’s how many fans of Root Shock have described the band’s infectious sound and energy. They’ve developed a voice that transcends genre but can make anyone move their body and uplift their spirit. Spearheaded by the powerhouse vocals of Jessica Brown, the Root Shock sound is at once commanding and cathartic, but never at the expense of a velvety, carefully placed jazz or neo-soul lick. Phil Grajko’s smooth earthy vocals complement his guitar style inspired by Latin, prog, and psychedelic rock textures—often in tandem with mad keyboard genius Brian Lauri. Rounding out the band, bassist Elliot Jarvis and drummer Tyre Outerbridge make for a formidable rhythm section fluent in patterns ranging from reggae to funk to reggaeton and maybe even metal. In 2016, Root Shock released a self-titled album, produced by Jason “Jocko” Randall at More Sound Studio, and followed that up with the “Many Paths” EP in 2018 & the Waves single in 2019. These recordings are proof of the band’s democratic songwriting process, with thoughtful lyrics from Brown and Grajko that invoke hope in dark times, warn against injustice, and imagine a future where everyone is free to be who they are. Always honest and thought-provoking. The next album is currently in the works. Today, Root Shock is bringing its renowned live show to clubs, festivals, and concert halls across the Northeast and beyond, delighting audiences from all walks of life with a positive message and danceable tunes.

Stephen Phillips

Alternative

Stephen Phillips is Pop/Funk artist from Syracuse, New York with a sound like no other. His sound is Pop leaning with influence from multiple styles including Gospel, R&B, and Funk. Stephen’s emotive performances show off his extensive vocal range while exhibiting high levels of energy with songs that are designed to provoke audiences to sing and dance along. Stephen first showcased his original sound in 2018 with his debut five song EP, VACATE. Created almost entirely in his friend's basement studio. This EP featured pop-centric vocals and hooks on his songs like, “No More Heartbreak” and “It’s a Lonely Life for Me”, but also captured his soulfulness with his hit folk ballad, “She Will”. In 2019, Stephen released two standalone singles, “Go Bye Bye!” and “The Letter”, before releasing his six song pop/funk album BIG EYES & ROSY CHEEKS. “This project was a game changer for me,” Stephen says. “It takes my style in a new direction. It’s really a perfect hybrid of a lot of different influences of mine.” With sounds ranging from acoustic campfire-y music to upbeat, dance tunes chock full of 80’s synths, slap bass lines and rich vintage vocals, Stephen continues to push his own bounds of creativity, writing music that is meant to inspire others and create a unique experience for everyone who tunes in to listen.

$20presale/$25 the day of

PRESENTED BY VISIONS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION ​Must be 21+ to attend. No backpacks or large bags. No refunds or exchanges.