LIVE: Albany Tulip Festival (Day One), 05/07/2022

On Saturday May 7, Albany’s Washington Park once again hosted the annual Tulip Festival. Thousands of people made their way to the park, and were treated to dozens of food trucks and a wide variety of musical entertainment. Local favorites Bad Mothers opened the main stage with a tight sixty minute set.

Cleveland-based Welshly Arms followed Bad Mothers. The six-piece band is equal parts rock, soul and blues. Lead singer/ guitarist Sam Getz displayed a soulful voice paired with incendiary guitar playing. Singers Bri Bryant and Jon Bryant can’t really be described as back-up singers. Their contribution to the overall sound of the band is immeasurable. A handful of songs were played for the first time on the Tulip Festival Stage, which is always a treat.

Indie-Rock band Parquet Courts closed out the main stage with ninety minutes of alternative rock.

Over on the Local 518 Stage, Hanzolo opened the day. Unfortunately, I missed the set in my feeble attempt to locate a parking spot. I did however make it in time to catch a great set by Albany’s own Canella. Led by Juliana Castrillon, she had the crowd firmly in the palm of her hand as she performed. I expect great things from this band.

Freedom Stratton and B. Chaps brought some hip-hop and R&B flavor to the local stage. Both are great performers who command the stage.

Unfortunately I had to miss E.R.I.E. the last act on the local stage, but I will get a chance to catch them on May 21 at Lark Hall with the incredible Sydney Worthley.

Once again the City of Albany knocked it out of the park with this event. There were a lot of people there, but it didn’t feel crowded. The weather was beautiful and people seemed to be genuinely happy to be out and about with other people.