The holiday season delivered an early gift for music fans on Saturday, December 3, as radio station 95X hosted its annual 95X-Mas Pajama Jam at The Westcott Theater in Syracuse. The event, headlined by the indie folk-rock band Wilderado, also featured a solo performance by Andrew McMahon and a set by Almost Monday.
Wilderado, hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, are led by Max Rainer (vocals and guitar), also include Tyler Wimpee (guitar), Justin Kila (drums), David Stimson (bass guitar) and Jack Malonis (keyboards). They continue to tour in support of their 2021 self-titled album, and were making their first appearance in Central NY.
The event opened with a set by Almost Monday. The San Diego indie-rockers hit the stage promptly at 8pm and delighted fans with a set of groovy rock tracks.
Up next was Andrew McMahon. McMahon is most known for his years fronting the bands Something Corporate and Jack’s Mannequin. His recent set at Beak & Skiff in August 2022 was a summer favorite of many. On this evening, however, fans were treated to a rare, solo performance. Flanked by just a piano, McMahon took fans through a journey highlighting many of his past musical projects. From the moment McMahon took the stage, fans sang along to every word. A set filled with many highlights, perhaps the most special moment was when McMahon closed his set by honoring a fan’s request by playing the emotional “Hammers and Strings.”
After a brief intermission, it was time for Wilderado. The band opened with a dreamy musical intro before launching into “Stranger,” the opening track on their 2021 self-titled album. The band weaved through several folk-rock styled tracks, much to the enjoyment of the crowd who jumped, danced, and sang along.
As the set wound to a close, Rainer summoned the crowd. “Are you guys going to help me sing Surefire?” The band began their stand out track and the crowd did not dissapoint, belting out the lyrics to the catchy chorus. As the song concluded, the band members shed their instruments and joined Rainer at the front of the stage. Armed with just an acoustic guitar, the band closed their set with “Rubble to Rubble”, a beautiful ode becoming a new parent.
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