Photos by Joanna Gleason
Review by Jean Senat Fleury
I had heard a lot about Joe Samba, singer, guitarist, and songwriter. As a photographer and a fan of live music I was excited to rock out with him at the Paradise. My experience on December 22, 2024 was unique and terrific. It was an exceptional night of music. Joe played a special blend of infused Reggae blended with Rock and Roll. He fed off the energy of the audience creating a fantastic set.
The show started at 8:00 p.m. with Crooked Coast as the opener. The group composed of Luke Vose (vocalist/guitarist), John McNamara (guitar/vocals), Ben Elder (bass/vocals), and Shaqed Druyan (drums) played an amazing set from start to finish. They fused reggae rhythms, hip-hop grooves, punk energy, and rock hooks to create a unique sound reflecting both the laid-back summer and gritty winters of their hometown.
With infectious energy and killer musical hooks, Crooked Coast performed with high-energy at the Paradise. The Massachusetts-based band played different songs from different albums such as Summer (Summer, 2019), Do You Feel It (Picture This, 2022), Rise & Shine (Rise & Shine, 2020), American Girl, Hell in a Handbasket, etc.
After a short break following Crooked Coast performance, at 9:15 p.m. Joe Samba came on stage. The singer, songwriter, and guitarist gathered the audience into rock n’ roll spirit and reggae soul all at once. At the Paradise, he delivered a unique mix of island-inspired reggae grooves with a gritty rock edge. He performed alongside some talented artists’ friends: Dave Petti – Drums, Nick Minicucci – Bass, Billy Kottage - Keys/Trombone.
The Massachusetts-born and now New Hampshire based multi-talent formally introduced himself as an artist via The Wrong impression in 2019. His independent debut topped the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart, debuting at #1 and gathering millions of streams. The album garnered support across the country and earned Joe the New England Male Artist of the Year Award. He leveled up on his 2022 sophomore album Far From Forever (LAW Records), with the album’s singles “Create Something,” “Boomer Economy,” and “Beef” also amassing millions of streams.
“No matter what walk of life you’re from, I’d love for you to hear the conviction in my music,” he notes. “I hope you think, “This dude meant it. Maybe you relate to what I’m singing about or just cut loose for a little bit. I just write songs and try to connect with people.”
At the Paradise in Boston Joe Samba produced an extraordinary show enlightened by a spectacular stage presence. Topping the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and sharing stages with The Dirty Heads and Pepper, he is actually one of the most influential and successful reggae artists in the United States.
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