By Sarah Swirsky, MSW, LSW, Summit Wellness Coordinator
As we settle into the heart of winter with freezing temperatures, it’s natural to feel a shift in energy and mood. Tress have shed their leaves, animals hibernate, and the pace of life slows down. Just as nature adapts, we too are wired to embrace this quieter season by resting, reflecting, and conserving our energy. This period, often referred to as "wintering," mirrors the natural world’s cycle of rest and renewal during the colder months.
However, in a world that often values constant productivity and busyness, resisting these natural cycles can leave us feeling out of sync. Pushing ourselves to maintain the same energy levels as in spring or summer can lead to frustration, burnout, and even a deeper sense of disconnection. Fighting against this slower rhythm denies us the opportunity to recharge, which can amplify feelings of sadness or stress.
Instead of resisting, wintering invites us to lean into this season of stillness, allowing ourselves to rest and recover. By honoring this natural rhythm, we can emerge from winter feeling renewed and ready for growth when the warmer months return.
It’s important, however, to distinguish between natural wintering and clinical depression. Natural wintering is a temporary, reflective state that aligns with the seasonal ebb and flow, often marked by a need for rest, quiet, and reduced activity. This state doesn’t disrupt your ability to function or find moments of joy, and it tends to ease as the seasons change.
Clinical depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), goes beyond the normal winter blues. It can manifest as persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue that interfere with daily life. You may struggle to enjoy things you typically love, have difficulty concentrating, or even experience changes in appetite and sleep. If these symptoms persist or intensify, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Depression is treatable, and support is available.
Understanding the rhythms of wintering and recognizing the difference between natural rest and clinical depression can help you navigate this season with self-compassion. If you find that your low energy or mood persists and interferes with your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek support.
If you need assistance in finding professional mental health care, reach out to your local ADM Board for resources. And if you’re in crisis, help is just a call away—dial 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. You don’t have to face this alone. Support is always available.
Thank you to the Summit County ADM Board for supporting Summit Wellness. Visit admboard.org for more info.
Tracey Thomas, an iconic voice of the “Akron Sound,” is set to release her highly anticipated new album, Words Can't Save Us Now, alongside her first memoir, Little Miss Akron, on Friday, January 31, 2025. This dual release marks a significant milestone in Thomas' illustrious career, showcasing her continued growth as an artist and storyteller after a 40+ year career in music.
Thomas will host a release party on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Weathervane Playhouse in Akron, Ohio, presented by The Summit FM.
This unforgettable evening will feature Tracey performing her new album in its entirety with a talented six-piece acoustic ensemble, including members of The Shootouts and 15-60-75 The Numbers Band. With a career spanning over eight albums of original music, Tracey will also treat the audience to a selection of fan-favorite songs. The night will kick off with an energetic opening set by The Shootouts, known for their thrilling guitar work and airtight harmonies.
CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS HERE
Words Can't Save Us Now is Thomas' first album since 2020 and her first collaboration with her longtime producer and collaborator Ryan Humbert (of The Shootouts) since her 2012 release, Queen of Nothing. Recorded to 2-inch tape at Son of Moondog studios in Kent, Ohio, the album features an impressive lineup of talented musicians, including Brian Poston, Emily Bates, Tim Longfellow, Bill Watson, and Christine Petersilge.
The album fulfills a dream Thomas and Humbert set nearly 20 years ago: to create an all-acoustic collection of songs. Featuring five new original songs co-written by Thomas and Humbert, the album also pays homage to her influences with covers of tracks by The Waterboys, U2, and Taylor Swift, plus a song by Akron songwriter Jim Ballard.
In conjunction with the album, Tracey’s memoir, Little Miss Akron, offers an intimate look into her life. From her beginnings on the pageant stage to her time on the concert stage as the lead singer of legendary Akron band Unit 5, Little Miss Akron reflects on a music career spanning over four decades. The book is infused with Thomas’ signature humor, grit, and heartfelt honesty.
Words Can't Save Us Now and Little Miss Akron are available for preorder at Tracey's new website, traceythomasmusic.com.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
Tom Petty's decision to 'go solo' always seemed a bit off, since Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were, well obviously, his band. But in 1989, Petty did just that with mega hit, 'Full Moon Fever,' an album which could have easily been a Heartbreakers LP, but this go-round, Petty worked as a solo act, bringing in Jeff Lynne (of ELO fame) to act as producer, sounding board, co-writer, and musical companion. Whatever the exact recipe, it worked amazingly, giving Petty a multi-platinum hit that scaled the charts just shy of the top. Heartbreaker Mike Campbell also occupied a major role, and guest appearances from fellow band members Benmont Tench and Howie Epstein made sure it wasn't too far removed from a Heartbreakers outing. The freedom it allowed Petty to bring in guests like George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Del Shannon, Jim Keltner, and others, gave the music a slightly different vibe from the Heartbreakers, though not miles apart.
With that milestone under his belt, he teamed back up with Lynne for round two for the follow-up. 'Into The Great Wide Open' was released in the summer of 1991, and though sonically it followed the path of its predecessor, it failed to connect at the cash register in the same manner. Not that one would ever call it a failure! It is packed full of Petty classics like 'Learning To Fly' and the title track, both released as singles, which became genuine hits and mainstays in the Petty catalog and live shows. Elsewhere tracks like 'Makin' Some Noise', 'Two Gunslingers,' 'Too Good To Be True', and 'King's Highway,' are all rock solid entries into the Petty catalog.
Though Petty was never far sonically, or mentally, from his beloved Heartbreakers, there was, at the time, a sense that this was something he needed to do. Guitarist Mike Campbell noted as much in an interview with Rolling Stone from that year. "Right from day one, it's a miracle that this band stayed together for two weeks," Campbell said. "I don't really know why we're still together. There must be a bond that even we're not aware of." Sales of the previous Heartbreakers album, 'Let Me Up (I've Had Enough)' were not what they had been before, so with 'Full Moon Fever,' it seemed like a good time to make that temporary break.
The next album, 'Wildflowers,' would arrive in 1994 also emblazoned with the sole credit to Petty, no Heartbreakers. He would, of course, regroup with them till his last days, but would also leave the door open to 'go solo' or work with Lynne, or anyone else he crossed paths with. Petty brought up an interesting point in that 1991 interview, one that could easily apply today, as well as countless times over the decades.
"Things got real phony-sounding for a while," he stated. "It got to the point where even the guys in the denim jackets were sounding phony. I started thinking maybe I should just get drunk. Maybe I should just f**king forget all these songs. I hate to sound like a grouchy old-timer, but the reason rock isn't as big as it once was, is probably that it isn't as good as it once was. It wouldn't bother me, except this stuff is really important to me. As corny as it sounds, my life has been consumed by rock music. I just loved it right from the beginning."
In giving this one a spin again after so many years, it solidly drives one point home, we miss Tom Petty.
Happy Birthday to The Summit FM's Maestro of Music and Afternoon Host Brad Savage!
Again this year we're putting together "Brad's SAVAGE Birthday Bash," but this time, it's three nights at three different venues!
FRIDAY - 2/21/25 - at The Rialto Theatre, Akron's Kenmore Neighborhood (Get Tickets)
- Katy Robinson (solo)
- Megan Bee
- JD Eicher (trio)
SATURDAY 2/22/25 - at Westside Bowl, Youngstown (Get Tickets)
- Ohayo
- Demos Papadimas
- MUNNYCAT
SUNDAY 2/23/25 - at Music Box Supper Club, Cleveland (Get Tickets)
- Kristine Jackson
- Marc Lee Shannon & My Other Brothers
By Summit FM Contributor Marc Lee Shannon
A few years ago, I wrote a column for the Devil Strip, a monthly local arts and community magazine, about the New Year, which was right around the corner. I pondered what to write about and chose "New Year, New Frames." Little did I know that the next year would have so much dynamic and dramatic change. It was December 2019.
Fast-forward to today, December 17, 2024. I am looking at the preview of another year through the new calendar pages in the shiny, glossy end-of-year "Thanks for your Business!" calendar that my insurance company sent me. So, as I stand on the threshold of 2025, a pivotal question echoes in my mind: what do I want?
What. Do. I. Want?
Let's have a look back at the highlights of my year:
I released another LP recording of songs with a group of guys called My Other Brothers, and it's a good record. Still, like most locally produced independent records, it was well received but quickly forgotten to make room for someone else's local independent record, and then the next, and the next, and so on.
Sigh.
I got married, and my wife and I, Kimina, found a later-in-life love that has a warm, special glow. Just when I thought I would be happy spending the rest of my days in my tiny house in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, the universe or God or whatever is driving this blue and green orb-shaped bus surprised us with a kind of happiness that we thought was beyond reach. This unexpected love story is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to find happiness. Whenever I see her walk in the door, I am tempted to say: "Are you sure you have the right house?" She's tall, blonde, and definitely Italian. She laughs uniquely and frequently, smiling and shaking her head at me with her arms akimbo. I love her so much.
It was also a year of loss. Some friendships moved on (and some were rocky but salvaged). My wife lost both of her senior dogs in quick succession. The house we live in seems too quiet some days, even with three adults in a tiny late 50 Heslop home intended for a post-war mom and dad with 2.5 kids as a starter home.
My mom finally and mercifully was released from the grips of dementia two months after my older sister Marta fell asleep on her easy chair and did not wake up. The cancer in her lungs was no match for this tough ex-Youngstown native, and she fought a brave and good fight. It hurts, and I miss them both.
Some days, I catch myself wishing for those five more minutes when we all want to say the things and ask the questions we remember when it's too late.
Looking back on '24, other things were sudden and surprising. I broke the fourth Metacarpal bone in my left hand, a disaster for a right-handed guitar player, and had surgery. Not playing or working out, swinging a 60-lb kettlebell for two months, made me an entertaining guy to be around—just ask my wife.
Still, I feel lucky after all the loss, injury, and ups and downs. I am, for the most part, able-bodied. I can walk when and where I want, see clearly, breathe deeply, and do what I please. It's not lost on me that these simple things are unavailable to some who would remind me to be grateful. I am mostly solvent, and like most semi-successful working artists these days, I made a little bit of money on a lot of different things. I got by just fine.
I have food to eat, a car to get around, clean clothes to wear, and a warm house in the chill of the Ohio winter. I have friends to call when I need help. After celebrating 10 years of recovery from alcohol use disorder, I am now more able to say, "Please, help me." I have the life I always wanted.
So, what do I want for the new year of 2025? Well, this time of year, when we are drawn to traditions and memories of holidays in the past, I am filled with the memories of kitchen smells, holiday twinkle sights, and whispers and sounds of the people who are no longer walking this earth. Humans I loved and cherished. So, it's straightforward for me. What I want more than anything in the new year is:
I want the people I love to stay.
Stay with me on this earth; stay with me for another moment, month, or year so that I can wrap my arms around what matters more than anything this material world can offer: love, family, and friends.
Just stay a little longer, please—five more minutes. I promise to remember to say how I feel and ask that question I might forget.
Happy New Year to one and all. Stay Standing and Steady On.
By Dave Swanson - Summit FM Contributor
Throughout the years, contemporary artists of whatever genre have tossed their Santa hat in the ring, trying to create a classic Christmas album. Countless takes of holiday standards mixed with self-penned songs of the season would become standard, while at other times, artists would issue special 'fan club only' releases featuring a special Christmas jam for the most die-hard fans.
From the classic Elvis Christmas songs to the legendary Beatles fan club messages to chart-topping pop acts, it's always a seasonal go-to. The Ventures Christmas Album, issued in 1965, is one of the most perfectly executed holiday albums, while albums by James Brown, Booker T & the MGs, and others also hold a special place. We can throw another one on the pile, courtesy of Americana/roots rocker J.D. McPherson, with his album Socks.
Issued in 2018 on the New West label, it is, in some ways, a Christmas 'concept' album, with songs dealing with some of the more trivial aspects of the holiday while maintaining a warmth and heart bursting at the seams with holiday cheer and goodness! Over the platter of 11 songs, we get such modern-day classics as “Ugly Sweater Blues,” “Bad Kid,” “Santa's Got A Mean Machine,” “Hey Skinny Santa’” and the classic title track about the dreaded gift of socks. There are no renditions of traditional material, but rather, all McPherson originals, each with a seasonal vibe not only in the lyrics but in the arrangement as well.
The other thing at play here is that you really have no idea what year this album sprang from. It is so authentic in its vintage vibe that you wouldn't be alone in questioning the 2018 release date, as it could have just as arguably been born 60 years earlier! That doesn't mean it sounds like a novelty or kitsch offering, but it rings so true with performances and a sonic blast that transcends time. Whether it is a long-lost artifact from the early years of rock and roll or a 21st-century adaptation of hip, it totally works. Unsurprisingly, he has spent time in the backing band for Robert Plant and Alison Krauss.
McPherson delivers in full throughout, while his cracker-jack band gives it an edge that saves it from cliché and parody. It’s full of smiles and the humor surrounding the season, guaranteed to set a festive mood. It's a modern-day Christmas classic, without question!
By Summit Music Director Chad Miller
One of the more nerdy and, I suppose, intense things about me when it comes to attending concerts has always been going for the setlist after the show. We've all been to concerts that leave lasting memories for us in the moment and in the time that follows, but as the years go by, some of those memories certainly fade. Having the setlist can really take you back instantly to remember quite literally exactly what songs were played that night. Plus, it's a real tangible memory of that specific moment in time and the music you heard. It's almost sort of a living, breathing history in a sense.
Thanks to all the venues near and far that host such important and outstanding musicians every night around the area. These are the setlists I was able to acquire throughout my concert-going experiences in 2024.
Torres
January 17, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
Joseph
January 27, 2024
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
The Record Company
February 3, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
Band of Horses
February 12, 2024
Roxian Theater
Pittsburgh, PA
The Kills
February 18
Newport Music Hall
Columbus, OH
Sleater-Kinney
March 20, 2024
Newport Music Hall
Columbus, OH
Nation of Language
April 1, 2024
Cambridge Room at House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
Real Estate
April 12, 2024
The Roxy at Mahall's
Lakewood, OH
Alvvays
April 18, 2024
Agora Theater
Cleveland, OH
Bully
April 27, 2024
Federal Frenzy Music Festival 2024
Youngstown, OH
Gary Clark Jr.
May 24, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
Noah Kahan
May 28, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Maggie Rose
May 30, 2024
Beachland Ballroom
Cleveland, OH
Band of Horses
June 17, 2024
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
Jamie Wyatt
June 27, 2024
Beachland Ballroom
Cleveland, OH
Detention / Off-Leash
June 29, 2024
Musica
Akron, OH
Lake Street Dive
July 9, 2024
TempleLive Masonic
Cleveland, OH
Norah Jones
July 11, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Maggie Rose
July 25, 2024
Musica
Akron, OH
All setlists from the above photo are from the Nelsonville Music Festival, in Nelsonville, OH
Amyl & the Sniffers
July 26, 2024
The Nude Party
July 27, 2024
Indigo De Souza
July 27, 2024
Courtney Barnett
July 27, 2024
The Heavy Heavy
July 28, 2024
John Vincent III
July 28, 2024
Thee Sacred Souls
July 28, 2024
Hozier
August 6, 2024
Blossom Musci Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Stephen Sanchez
August 7, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
Iron & Wine
August 20, 2024
Agora Theater
Cleveland, OH
Waxahatchee
August 26, 2024
Carnegie Music Hall
Pittsburgh, PA
Stephen Wilson Jr.
September 5, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit
September 10, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
The Hives
September 17, 2024
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
Vampire Weekend
September 19, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Joe P
September 20, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
The War on Drugs
September 21, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
The National
September 21, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Lake Street Dive
September 30, 2024
Kemba Live
Columbus, OH
Yard Act
October 5, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
Hinds
October 22, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
Bully (opening for Suki Waterhouse)
December 6, 2024
Agora Theater
Cleveland, OH
I've been going to concerts for over two decades now, and one of the aspects of the concert-going experience that's always struck me is getting to the merch table upon arriving to see what's available to purchase. I'll usually buy myself a band t-shirt with the actual tour dates on the back as a way of supporting the artists and also to show off a bit via my wardrobe of these bands I like. But the one thing I always look out for and get excited about is the super cool artwork of the concert posters some bands have available with even some of them in limited numbered quantities. The culture of concert posters goes way back to the late '60s, and while it diminished for a bit in the '80s, there was quite a resurgence that took place in the late '90s going forward. There's some truly amazing art being created by these extremely talented poster artists. With the rare amount of some of these that get produced, they go VERY fast at the venue, making them highly collectible. Many bands are even known for having a reputation as having unique concert posters available for each date on their respective tours as well. I have many of my own professionally framed and displayed in my home and office where they really stand out as the pop art pieces that they are but also proudly tell a story of a moment in time of that concert I was at, documenting all those memories along the way.
Thanks to all the many concert poster artists who create such vibrant, mind expanding, and just flat out really cool designs with their work.. These are the concert posters I was able to acquire throughout my concert-going experiences in 2024…
1.) Band of Horses
February 12, 2024 (tour poster)
Roxian Theater
Pittsburgh, PA
ARTIST: unknown
2.) 330 Day concert
March, 30, 2024
Kent Stage
Kent, OH
ARTIST: Ryan Humbert
3.) Federal Frenzy Music Festival 2024
April 27, 2024
Penguin City Brewing
Youngstown, OH
ARTIST: YSU Penguin Productions
4.) Khruangbin
May 29, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: Bjorn Lie
5.) Khruangbin
June 5, 2024
Kemba Live
Columbus, OH
ARTIST: Nadeesha Godamunne
6.) Band of Horses
June 17, 2024 (tour poster)
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: unknown
7.) Nelsonville Music Festival 2024
July 26-28, 2024
Snow Fork Event Center
Nelsonville, OH
ARTIST: Logan Schmitt
8.) Nelsonville Music Festival 2024
July 26-28, 2024
Snow Fork Event Center
Nelsonville, OH
ARTIST: Just a Jar Design Press
9.) Hozier
August 6, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
ARTIST: unknown
10.) Iron & Wine
August 20, 2024 (tour poster)
Agora Theater
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: Ambient Inks
11.) King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
August 24, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: Jason Galea
12.) Waxahatchee
August 26, 2024
Carnegie Music Hall
Pittsburgh, PA
ARTIST: unknown
13.) Jack White
August 29, 2024
Mr. Smalls Theater
Pittsburgh, PA
ARTIST: Silent Giants
14.) Jack White
August 31, 2024
Newport Music Hall
Columbus, OH
ARTIST: Silent Giants
15.) Mitski
September 3, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: Bradley Amorosino
16.) Stephen Wilson Jr.
September 5, 2024
Grog Shop
Cleveland Heights, OH
ARTIST: unknown
17.) Pearl Jam
September 9, 2024
Wells Fargo Center
Philadelphia, PA
ARTIST: Ames Bros
18.) Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit
September 10, 2024
Jacobs Pavilion
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: Camp Nevernice
19.) The Hives
September 17, 2024
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
ARTIST: We Three Club
20.) The War on Drugs
September 21, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
ARTIST: George Manta
21.) The National
September 21, 2024
Blossom Music Center
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
ARTIST: Robert Beatty
By Chad Miller - Summit FM Music Director
Anyone who knows me well knows that I absolutely love going to concerts. It's my favorite thing to do. If we're being honest, it's also about the overall experience. Everything from getting excited about seeing an artist or band you're a big fan of or even casually curious about. Being inside the venue as the anticipation builds, with all the sights, sounds, senses, and history. Hanging out with a friend or several friends all evening while being surrounded by hundreds of other people, all there for the same reason: purely soaking in the atmosphere as lifetime memories of a singular moment in time are formed. Really, even just being entertained for the evening!
So, with that, I'm sharing with you my list of the 25 best concerts I've seen this year to close out 2024. Trust me when I tell you that it was HARD narrowing this down, but these live music highlights were certainly the best I was lucky enough to see throughout the year:
#25 Maggie Rose - May 30 - Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland, OH
Holy smokes! Her voice is phenomenal, and she makes it seem so effortless! On the cusp of summer, everyone in attendance was treated to a stellar performance from rootsy alt-country singer-songwriter Maggie Rose with her lively and soulful songs in the first of two times I got to see her this year. After experiencing her live show, it's easy to see why she's been nominated for a Grammy award. Deservedly so from a refreshingly down-to-earth musician.
#24 Real Estate - April 12 - The Roxy at Mahall's in Lakewood, OH
Jangly sounding and melodic indie rock at its finest with the easygoing and enjoyable sounds of the band Real Estate with a very satisfying sold-out concert that night just outside of Cleveland. They’ve been favorites of mine for a long time and getting to hear their song "Water Underground" live that night, one of my favorites of 2024, was a true highlight. Music that's so pleasant and easy to love in a way that'll have you humming along in no time.
#23 Alvvays - April 18 - Agora Theater in Cleveland, OH
Taking a well-deserved victory lap as part of an additional brief round of touring in support of their outstanding third album, "Blue Rev," released in late 2022, these guys finally hit northeast Ohio in the process. They're the total package of charming, adorable, eminently likable, nerd-friendly Canadian indie rock. What's not to love?! The Toronto-based band Alvvays put on a super fun concert, kicking off their tour that spring evening in Cleveland.
#22 Iron & Wine - August 20 - Agora Theater in Cleveland, OH
Coming off a spellbinding Studio C session earlier in the day at The Summit, it was quite a mesmerizing concert from Iron & Wine elevated by the backdrop of shadow puppet art created by Chicago-based collective Manual Cinema. Doing so in real time added a uniquely captivating background aesthetic that was hard to take one's eyes off of. All in good time, though, it was a fantastic visual element combined with the music of Sam Beam and his band.
#21 Bully - April 27 - Federal Frenzy in Youngstown, OH
It was a perfect day in Youngstown on the last Saturday in April for the annual "Federal Frenzy 2024" music festival, with headlining act Bully and many local bands performing throughout the day. The good folks at YSU Penguin Productions organize a great event each year, with Penguin City Brewing hosting and Forty Two Event Productions setting everything up. Meanwhile, as expected, Bully showed everyone how to rock out that night as they do!
#20 Detention / Off-Leash - June 29 - Akron, OH
It's always very rewarding to see the local bands in our 330 area code take the next step in their evolution. It can be both daunting and gutsy at the same time. That was the case with a historic moment as the world premiere debut of the new iteration of Akron local band greats Detention, now known as Off-Leash, blew away the sweaty crowd that hot summer night with their all-out high-energy rock assault. A new chapter begins for this defiant young band.
#19 Hinds - October 22 - Grog Shop in Cleveland Heights, OH
Certainly, one of the more charming and effervescent acts we’ve had here at The Summit in a long time as Madrid, Spain-based band Hinds were kind enough to join our members for a Studio C session. After that, these ladies displayed youthful exuberance and joyfulness humanly possible as they put on an irresistible concert with non-stop smiles all night in Cleveland Heights. Energy for days and a must-see live band!
#18 Thee Sacred Souls - July 28 - Nelsonville Music Festival in Nelsonville, OH
When the lineup was finally announced in late March, one of the bands I looked forward to seeing the most at this gem of a music festival held that coveted headlining spot on the last night. This group's retro soul vibes were the perfect close to an epic weekend in southeast Ohio. Lead singer Josh Lane's comfort level and earnestness were engaging, but his taking off running into the crowd during a few songs endeared the band to everyone.
#17 The National - September 21 - Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
How could this be The National's first tour stop in Cleveland in seventeen years?! It's been a long time since then when they were hitting their stride. This night, however, part of a co-headlining tour with The War on Drugs, was nothing short of magnificent on a beautiful night when summer changed to fall. The band ran through new and old favorites with the assured and steady conviction that defines their live show.
#16 The Hives - September 17 - House of Blues in Cleveland, OH
Patience paid off as I saw this legendary Swedish garage rock band in concert for the first time after waiting over twenty years after discovering their breakthrough album "Veni Vidi Vicious" in 2002. The showmanship and especially the charm were off the charts from lead singer Pelle Almqvist, who led the way, whipping the crowd up into a frenzy and seeming like the ringleader of a circus with his one-liners. It was every bit of a good time as I’d anticipated!
#15 Hozier - August 6 - Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Upon having some of the biggest songs across America over the course of this past summer, northeast Ohio turned out in droves to see the great Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, who put on a highly anticipated performance at Blossom. The threat of heavy thunderstorms thankfully held off as the packed crowd was treated to an emotional and poetic night of songs that were quite powerful to see and hear. He is one of the best at what he does.
#14 Mdou Moctar - June 20 - Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland, OH
Good lord, this band absolutely ROCKS!!! Third time seeing Mdou Moctar, the Tuareg guitar rock band from Niger, and these guys completely obliterated a sold-out crowd. It was nearly impossible to move inside the Beachland that night! Out of this world guitar riffing and rock grooves at the speed of light with a sound that's unlike pretty much anyone else out there. Highly recommended and well worth your attention. Whew… that was a killer show!
#13 Stephen Sanchez - August 7 - Jacobs Pavilion in Cleveland, OH
This young man is a STAR! At just 22 years old, he's very much an old soul. At the same time, what an absolute dreamboat this young fella is! Incorporating the stage production of an old time-y television variety show in between songs while onstage, Sanchez and his magnetic retro crooner troubadour vibes had all the young girls in attendance screaming their approval throughout his dazzling performance that warm summer night in Cleveland.
#12 Lake Street Dive - July 9 - Temple Live Masonic in Cleveland, OH
It is literally impossible not to love this band or resist getting caught up in their charismatic stage presence, especially from unstoppable lead singer Rachael Price. Lake Street Dive is equal parts sassy, seductive, sultry, and oozing with charisma for days. They absolutely had this crowd going bananas on a wild evening, and the audience seemed even more swept away than usual, dancing around like I've never seen before at one of their gigs.
#11 Green Day - September 1 - PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA
Well, it's not every day you get to go to an actual stadium concert! This one had all the '90s alt-rock nostalgia feels, too, with Smashing Pumpkins and Rancid also on the bill. It all has to be as BIG as humanly possible at these massive venues, and that's exactly what Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Green Day did as they ran through both classic albums "Dookie" AND "American Idiot," marking their respective anniversaries along with other mega-hits along the way.
#10 Vampire Weekend - September 19 - Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
It's easy to forget sometimes just how many bangers were stacked into this band's first two albums, and it was so good to hear those old classics and music from the new album. These NYC indie-rock forefathers played all the hits and then some, including an encore of random, off-the-cuff cover songs by fan request! Vampire Weekend charmed everyone in attendance on a beautiful early fall night in one of the more engaging concerts I saw all year.
#9 Waxahatchee - August 26 - Carnegie Music Hall in Pittsburgh, PA
As a longtime superfan of her music, I'm not ashamed to say that I was totally swooning all night after this absolutely wonderful performance from Katie Crutchfield's musical project Waxahatchee in a breathtakingly gorgeous venue in Pittsburgh, which I’d not been to in fourteen years. This was one of the shows I looked forward to most all year, and it did not disappoint. It was a terrific show of confidence from one of the great songwriters and voices of our generation.
#8 Alanis Morissette - July 17 - Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
An evening filled with ‘90s nostalgia, with the one and only Alanis in concert exuding pure joy onstage with all those megahits we know and love. To be able to hear an insanely packed crowd sing along WAY out loud to those familiar favorites brought up some emotions and nostalgic memories in that time of life during my youth that I don't think I was fully prepared for. One of the most enjoyable concerts I’ve been to in a long time and my first time finally seeing her!
#7 King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - August 24 - Jacobs Pavilion in Cleveland, OH
This one was absolutely WILD! After being familiar with their hyper prolific album output, I literally went to see what all the fuss was about, and WOW… this Australian psych-rock band slayed that late summer night alternating between jam band territory, to scuzzy fuzzy psych rock, to super heavy stoner metal all with effortless ease. The cult following I’ve always heard about was quite evident, with a mile-long merch line, an insanely energetic sold-out crowd, and a fierce mosh pit. This was quite unlike any concert I’ve ever seen!
#6 Khruangbin - June 5 - Kemba Live in Columbus, OH
AMAZING!!! The concert I’d been looking forward to the most this year did NOT disappoint. It never does with the unstoppable charisma and precision of execution from Khruangbin, who crushed it that night in Columbus. These three make pure magic together, individually and collectively, and they also seemed to summon the weather that night literally. Each show on the tour saw them play the new album in full, and as they played that final song, which included the sounds of rain showers, real drizzly raindrops started to fall on the crowd in attendance! They're an utterly amazing and phenomenal live band!
#5 The Kills - February 13 - Newport Music Hall in Columbus, OH
Little late to the party in getting into this band fully, but when I did about eight years ago, I was hooked and couldn't wait to see them live. That finally happened as Allison Mosshart and Jamie Hince took themselves out on tour to support their killer new album "God Games." Just the two of them on guitar, too. That’s it! Few rock bands shred with absolute fury like these two! No one comes close to being as badass as The Kills onstage, who annihilated the crowd assembled that winter evening in Columbus. It was an unbelievable rock show and I was absolutely blown away. Holy schnikes!!
#4 Jack White - August 29 - Mr. Smalls Theater in Pittsburgh, PA
The single greatest rockstar of our generation dropped a mysterious album in July titled "No Name." As the weeks went on, more layers about it came to light before its official vinyl release on August 2. After that, a tour happened--but not how musicians normally do it. Spontaneous "pop-up" concerts in small venues were announced, with sometimes only 48 hours’ notice, putting all the would-be attendees in a frenzy. Redefining the music industry while marketing his own music is what he's always done best. With his live show, it absolutely delivers, and as the buzz built for this show, which was one of the first on the "pop-up" tour, the anticipation in and around the venue was at a fever pitch. It was absolutely nuts in there as Jack White put on a masterclass of an effing rock concert on an unforgettable night in Pittsburgh.
#3 Jack White - August 31 - Newport Music Hall in Columbus, OH
Two days after the first one in Pittsburgh, I was lucky to be there again to see Jack White in Columbus! When going to a Jack White show, if you're like me and want to get one of the limited-edition concert posters and/or get as close as possible for a good spot on the crowd, you must get there early to get in line when doors open. I arrived at 4:00 pm for doors at 7:00 pm! The long wait was so worth it as this show topped the previous tour stop in Pittsburgh days before with an even more killer selection of older songs and even the further back classics! I'd also say that my love of this venue added to the memory as it was the perfect setting to see Jack White absolutely obliterate that crowd with the rock show of a damn lifetime.
#2 Pearl Jam - September 9 - Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA
I've been following this band live since their debut album in 1991. I've been seeing them live since 2000 upon graduating from college, and they've been my favorites all along for me. Going to see Pearl Jam in concert always makes you feel like you're a part of something. Life-affirming and full of heart and humanity as always from the BEST live band to ever walk planet Earth. The altruism at one of their shows does seem to manifest itself in ways you sometimes don't see coming and makes for an immensely special night of community. Not to mention the music! With these legends now twelve albums in, you never know what you'll get from one night to the next. Radio hits, deep cuts, fan favorites, songs from the new album, and potential b-sides, covers, and rarities. That's half the fun of going! Pearl Jam concert #23 was unbelievably special for me that night in Philadelphia, a city where they always deliver.
#1 Amyl & the Sniffers - July 26 - Nelsonville Music Festival in Nelsonville, OH
BEST CONCERT OF THE YEAR! I was so amped to see this band on the first night of the annual Nelsonville Music Festival this past summer. Keeping up with this fierce Aussie punk band for the last few years with their first two albums, I had always loved what I heard, especially from the force of nature that is lead singer Amy Taylor, who is one of the most in-your-face frontwomen in rock music. Back on May 21, they released a new single, "U Should Not be Doing That," which, upon hearing it by watching the music video for it, instantly became my favorite song of the year. Oh my god, it rocked with swagger, bravado, and raucousness for days! Seriously...watch this music video!!! That first evening of NMF in which they performed, it was all I could do to leave the radio station at a decent hour to make the two-and-half-hour trip down there in time to see them, but I made it just in time! What I saw was utterly insane as the band unloaded absolute fury and energy, with Taylor moving, gyrating, and rocking out continuously on stage for the entire hour-long set. It was one of the most powerful performances I've ever seen, and I was still buzzing about it the rest of the weekend. After experiencing such an incredible and exhilarating moment of live music like that, I would run through a brick wall for Amyl & the Sniffers. The buzz afterward amongst the festival attendees was very real as well. You can see this electrifying band on May 13 at the Agora Theater in Cleveland. If you love live music like I do, I suggest you attend!
What were the best and most memorable concerts YOU attended in 2024? Email me at chad@thesummit.fm, and let me know who you were able to see LIVE!
By Sarah Swirsky - Summit FM Wellness Coordinator
The holiday season is a time of celebration, but it can also bring stress, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion. Between endless to-do lists, financial pressures, and complex family dynamics, it’s easy to feel like the joy of the season is slipping away.
One often-overlooked tool for managing holiday stress is music. The power of music goes beyond entertainment—it can be a grounding force that soothes the mind and uplifts the spirit.
Here’s how you can use music to navigate holiday stress:
- Create a Calm Playlist
Set aside time to create a playlist of songs that help you relax. Slow tempos, soft melodies, or instrumental tracks can calm your mind and help you feel more centered. When holiday chaos strikes, press play and let the music guide you back to balance.
- Turn Stress into Movement
Dance it out! Whether it’s to a holiday classic or your favorite pop anthem, moving your body to music is a great way to release pent-up stress. It’s a mood booster that requires no special equipment—just a willingness to let go and enjoy the moment.
- Sing Your Heart Out
Singing isn’t just fun—it’s a natural stress reliever that activates the vagus nerve, a key player in calming your nervous system. The vagus nerve helps regulate your body’s stress response, and singing stimulates it through controlled breathing and vocal vibration. This can lower your heart rate, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of calm. Whether you're caroling with friends, humming a holiday tune, or belting out songs in the shower, singing can help you feel more relaxed and grounded. Plus, it’s an easy way to tap into joy and connect with others during the holidays.
Music is more than just sound—it's a way to express emotions, release tension, and build connection. Whether you’re unwinding with a serene melody or coming together with loved ones for a sing-along, let music be your companion during the holidays.
This season, take a break from the hustle and bustle, tune into The Summit FM, or find other ways to listen, including our new mindful music streaming channel, Wavelengths, available on our free app.
Summit Wellness wishes you a harmonious holiday season filled with health, connection, and music.