The second band was Jaw Gems. Stepping it up to a whopping four members, this band kept the night rolling with a similarly synth-filled sound that brought the crowd in from the merch booth and smoker’s alley. In part to dance along to the Maine-based quartet, but also in preparation for Papadosio’s set, which was soon to come.

After using the brief intermission to have a few drinks and make friends with the interesting people around us, Papadosio began a non-stop, two-hour set. For two hours there were no political messages, no sing-a-longs or frontman antics, and hardly any vocals to speak of. Just a room full of music and the simple desire to enjoy the night. The energy radiating throughout the crowd was palpable as we were engulfed in wave upon wave of the lush melodies.

Two hours rushed by all too fast, and despite having to finally leave the insulated bliss to enter a world full of politics, division, and deadlines, the people I met and the experiences we shared give me plenty to smile about in the days ahead.

Papadosio is comprised of Mike Healy, Sam Brouse, Rob McConnell, Anthony Thogmartin and Billy Brouse. Billy, Sam, and Anthony took time to talk about touring, influences, and their creative processes both live and in the studio.