Congratulations Huntington! Sugar Ray’s next album will include you! Monday night’s performance at Paramount was recorded for Sugar Ray’s next album- a live album.
The show kicked off with Eve 6 and Uncle Kracker. Eve 6 was impressive but not as well known with the exception of their hit “Inside Out.” Uncle Kracker was a little bland but overall solid. I guess he’s just not my thing.
Better than Ezra killed it! BTE is a little under the cuff. Usually they are not thought of when we think of the boom of ‘90s rock or post grunge era. Makes sense, while that era was dominated by Pacific Northwest, a hard working band from Louisiana can get lost in the fray. While listening on Monday I never realized how well their songs are constructed. They are amazing story tellers.
What can we say about Sugar Ray? Front man Mark McGrath has had a dynamite career. Not only has Sugar Ray made him a rock star, but his resume includes co- hosting Extra and a slew of other TV projects as well the past face of Candies Fragrances. However, it’s always been about music. Music is what made him.
Monday the energetic McGrath just ran across the stage several times with the mic firmly placed in his hand. He still sounds fantastic! Sugar Ray is one of these bands that is as “California cool” as it gets. During the show I realized Sugar Ray has been on the radar for close to 20 years! The first time I heard Sugar Ray was paired with Super Cat- that was 1997. He was one of the first times that I can think of, where rock was fused with reggae.
Monday night, Sugar Ray dusted off Fly, Every Morning and all the rest of his monster hits. McGrath is one of the best front men out there. He is the epitome of charisma, confidence and humility. I can’t wait to hear more from them.









