The Chesterfield Kings ~ Lilac Festival, Rochester, N.Y. May 17, 2009

Words and Photos by Joe Koch

What better way to bring the annual Lilac Festival in Rochester, N.Y. to a finale than with a performance by the masters of garage rock, The Chesterfield Kings. They are known worldwide for their psychedelic sounds and when they perform in their hometown, the fans always show up to pay homage to their kings.

They did this time and if you looked hard enough at the show you would have seen some familiar faces; regulars that have been there from the beginning. If you were lucky enough you bumped into Dennis Casey and his wife, another local guitar hero who has made a name for himself with the Irish-inspired punk band Flogging Molly.

The Kings’ music spans 25 years. Their current line-up has been together for a little over a decade, with founding members Andy Babiuk (bass) and Greg Prevost (vocals) masterminding moves. In 1997, the band added Mike Boise on drums and in 2000 Paul Morabito joined on guitars.

“It was in the middle of a mixing session with my old band, that Greg, Andy and Mike asked me to join the kings. I’ve always wanted to play with these guys,” said Paul in a recent phone interview.

Over the years the band has made a reputation for their live show. Sometimes they are entertaining as a circus. Other times, they have been banned from venues because of the carnage they leave behind. Whether it’s dancing go-go girls, Greg’s antics or the raw talent that the musicians exude, one thing is for sure. You will never leave a Kings’ show feeling that you didn’t get your money’s worth. This day, Greg hit the stage and addressed the crowd: “It’s nice to be back here in Arkansas. You know, I’ve never been to one of these flower conventions before.”

The crowd cheered as the psychedelic trip began. By song three Greg was over the barrier and parading through the crowd. He returned to the stage with another Arkansas reference, and then said, “How’s everyone in the balcony doing?” I wondered if he did actually see people in a balcony, being that it’s an outdoor venue with grass seating only.

Don’t think Greg is the only entertaining person in the band. When he’s in the crowd the energy does not subside. Andy, Paul and Mike have just as much fun. Sometimes Andy even scans the crowd for Greg, unsure of his next move. But Greg always makes his way back to the stage, usually throwing anything that might cross his path. Off on his jaunts, he still manages to blow on his harp and sing the songs as if it were rehearsed.

The band ended the night with some great cover songs: Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Whole Lotta Shakin” and Bo Diddley’s “Pills” — a perfect way to heat up a cool spring evening.

For more info go to: www.thechesterfieldkings.com