If it weren't for the strobe lights and amps, the American Legion Post 264 could have been mistaken for a daycare.
Middle-aged adults danced along with elementary-aged kids to the music of Middleman and Floozie this past Friday night in Tonawanda.
This all-ages event was conceived for area kids as an alternative to sneaking their way into nightclubs and bars, like a modern day "Smash Club." It was a drug and alcohol-free event that emphasized good clean fun through rock music, DJ's and dancing.
Even though it was a small venue, the show had high-quality lighting and a mist that gave the concert a big venue feeling. Shy Guy Shawn from KISS 98.5 FM hosted the show, giving out various prizes like gift certificates and tickets to local events. The station kept the beat up between sets with rock music from the 1960s to today, and the dance floor was never empty.
The crowd's favorite, by far, was Floozie.
"I came to see Floozie. They're very original. We've all seen the cover bands, but they have a new sound and it's awesome," said Corrie Stephens, a receptionist from Lancaster.
Floozie has an innovative approach to rock music. Their sound ranges from British pop rock to punk rock.
The show included The Beatles' "It Won't Be Long," and several original songs like "She's Going to California," "I Wanted Some" and "Down."
It is easy to see the group's talent through their enthusiastic performance, as they jumped around the stage and continued to pound out one song after another.
"It was amazing. The music is upbeat and fun to listen to," said Rebecca Pisarcik, a sophomore at Niagara Wheatfield High School.
Even with some minor technical difficulties, Floozie played an impressive set and left their fans anxious for more.
"It was really good. They were amazing," said Pisarcik's classmate, Julie Kalita.
Floozie uses MySpace to stay connected with their fans and even played a request that was posted on the site.
"I requested 'Something Special' on MySpace. The show was amazing like always," said Regis Wojtowicz, a retail clerk from North Tonawanda.
This band is working hard to make a name for themselves. According to their fans, they are well on their way.
"Floozie can blow anyone out of the water. They're definitely going places," Wojtowicz said.
The next band, Middleman, offered a dose of rock that started the show off with heavy drumbeats and dynamic vocals.
"Middleman was good, but a little repetitive," Wojtowicz said.
It may prove difficult to figure out Middleman at first. The popping drum line, cracking guitar riffs and unusual lyrics are surprising.
"You whisper pseudo-seductively in my ear at the supermarket, over by the frozen breakfast pizzas you said I'm wearing triple underwear," sang Denis Reed Jr., in "Good For You."
The lyrics may be strange, but the solid beats from drummer Carina Baldassarre got the audience collectively bobbing their heads.
Middleman's performance was full of life and true to the hard, thunderous sound of rock concerts.
Concertgoers enjoyed the performance by these local rockers, especially the younger group that was dancing in front of the stage all night.
Even though the show was created for a younger crowd, the music of both Middleman and Floozie is aimed at rock fans of every age.
This all ages event at the American Legion Post 264 in Tonawanda features new bands monthly.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
