CD/Concert Review: Northern By Farewell Flight

When we were kids, we would always climb the tallest trees in town. We never thought about what would happen if we lost our footing on the 37th branch, and fell down to the ground. When we were kids, we would always like the cutest girls in town.

I caught Farewell Flight at their debut performance in New York City. The band hails from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, about 40 miles from where I grew up, so I had a special interest in seeing them. They're on tour promoting their new album Northern, which is their third self-produced CD.

Formed in 2004, the band has toured extensively over a wide geographic area. Their current tour is part of their third covering most of the eastern half of the U.S. Still, I think that for many if not most bands, their first time playing in NYC is a one of a kind "moment" in their careers. These guys were no different. In fact it was the first time that lead singer/guitarist Luke Foley had ever been in Manhattan or even NYC for that matter. I found it sort of surprising that no members of the Harrisburg media had chosen to tag along, no newspaper reporter, no radio DJ. But then again I have better circulation than they ever will...

I talked to the band; Luke, Robbie Reddinger (bass) and Mark Prokopchak (drums) outside of Arlene's Grocery (the venue that night) before their show and sensed their enthusiasm. In the back of my mind I wondered how it might feel to be playing on the same stage, in front of essentially the same audience that acts such as The Ramones, The Strokes and more recently Dashboard Confessional have played. I decided not to ask them that question till after the show though. Why add to the pressure?

Article Author: Mike Johnston

Covering mainstream music, the New York City indie rock scene and off-Broadway theater productions. Also articles on science, the ongoing effects of climate change, and alternative energy.

Visit Mike Johnston's author page — Mike Johnston's Blog