By Veronica Lee
2016 was a memorable year; one of fear and change. A year of conversation and action, of politics and community. But most notable was this the year of art and of music. The end of what many are claiming to be one of the worst years in history, there are so many who do not agree. Out of the depths of the unknown, anything can grow and flourish. Fresh starts are sparked, reunions of lovers and enemies are explored, and comebacks are strengthened and inevitable. And tonight, on the eve of 2017, Rose Hill Drive is up to something new; embarking on a journey and writing their own history. The guys rang in the New Year in Ft Collins with a killer lineup and a bleeding passion that is sure to set in motion their best year to come.
Rose Hill Drive was more than welcomed to the stage; they were met with anticipated buzz and gorwing chants as the lights slowly dimmed. Jacob, Daniel and Nathan ushered themselves to their appropriate spots and confidently picked up their instruments. They’ve done this hundreds of times before, and yet tonight felt different. Coming from Larimer Lounge in Denver just weeks before, Daniel claims that to notably be the most fun performance the guys had ever played. They are suredly amped and ready for round two. Shattering the silence with the opening lines of Americana, the room was set into a forward motion as the stage was rushed and voices sang along to the lyrics. Striking heavy bass lines, crushing guitar solos, and high-energy artistic beats on drums, this is yet an even stronger representation of the skill and showmanship these guys have been perfecting during the 5-year hiatus. Song after song, playing old favorites and introducing new music, not a single moment was to be missed. These guys have an intense and readable love of what they do, and their impact on the psychedelic rock community is only just beginning to surface.
At the midnight mark, the countdown from 10 to 1 began, as couples reached for familiar hands to hold and lips to kiss upon the stroke of midnight. Significant others of the bandmates rushed on stage to bring in the year together, and in that moment, Jacob bent down to one knee and offered an open ring box to his lady. In shock, she stared and muttered unreadable words of astonishment, and with no hesitation she leaned in and kissed him with a yes! A beautiful moment for the couple and an awesome sight for everyone else to partake in witnessing the joy of what’s to come!
Playing well in to the new year, the diverse lineup of original material is an endless stream of rock and roll paradise. Playing fan favorites as well as new songs, the audience formed the head banging dance circle from beginning until the very end. “Rose Hill Drive” was heard on the lips of old and new fans alike, and in an urgent patience, they will wait until the band resurfaces again with a vengeance in 2017.
See more photos in our slideshow HERE!
