Photo Credit: Louie Galvez
https://www.instagram.com/mata.ni.louie/
I recently had the unexpected pleasure of discovering Save Ferris for the first time during a rooftop performance at ELSEWHERE in Brooklyn, NY. What began as a chance encounter turned into one of the most impressive and energetic shows I’ve ever witnessed. Every song they performed was remarkably catchy and well-executed, leaving me genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed their music. The horn section was tight, the vocals and harmonies were impeccable, and it’s clear that Save Ferris is one of the most underrated ska bands in the genre.
Monique Powell, the band’s lead vocalist, has retained her incredible voice and stage presence over the years. She looks just as vibrant as ever, and her voice remains a perfect match for ska music. The set opened with “Lights Out,” and, caught off guard, I quickly reached for my phone to record a video. The performance was so engaging that I couldn’t resist dancing along with the crowd. The energy in the room was infectious, and it felt like the entire audience was swept up in the moment.
As the band transitioned into “New Sound,” the powerful horns reverberated through the rooftop, and I could feel the rhythm pulsing through the venue. Although I managed to capture a few video clips, my focus was more on soaking in the experience. The crowd, a mix of loyal fans and curious newcomers, united in their enjoyment of the music.
Monique’s stage presence was captivating; she shared personal anecdotes between songs, adding a touch of intimacy to the performance. The chemistry among the band members was undeniable, and it was clear they were enjoying themselves just as much as the audience was.
When they launched into “Come On Eileen,” the atmosphere reached a fever pitch. Everyone sang along, and the energy in the room was electric. It was hard to comprehend how a band with such talent could be so overlooked. The performance felt like a revival of ska, a reminder of its relevance in today’s music scene.
The set concluded with an encore that left me feeling a mix of nostalgia and exhilaration. As I left the rooftop, I was filled with a sense of upliftment, with the music still resonating in my mind. Save Ferris reignited a spark in me, and I’m eager to explore more of their discography. Ska is far from dead, and that night was undeniable proof of its enduring appeal.
saveferris.com/events/upcoming-events/