Get ready to relive the soundtrack of the 90s as the iconic Spin Doctors Band are set to electrify the stage at VersoFest 2024! Known for their chart-topping hits “Two Princes” and “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong,” the Spin Doctors will headline the Friday Night Concert presented by Webster Bank at The Westport Library’s annual music and media festival. Mark your calendars for April 5th, and prepare to sing along to the anthems that defined a generation at the Trefz Forum at Verso Studios.
The night kicks off with local talent, singer-songwriter Nick Depuy, warming up the crowd at 7 pm. The Spin Doctors band will take over at 8 pm, promising a high-energy performance. Doors open at 6:30 pm, giving fans ample time to settle in and soak up the pre-show atmosphere. Tickets are priced at $50 and are available for purchase online, offering an unmissable opportunity to see a legendary band in an intimate setting.
VersoFest, now in its annual edition from April 3rd to 7th, is more than just a concert; it’s a five-day immersion into music and media culture. The Westport Library’s signature event bridges the local and global music scenes, having previously hosted acclaimed artists such as The Smithereens and Sunflower Bean. VersoFest also serves as a platform for industry insights, featuring events with renowned figures like producer Steve Lillywhite, Miriam Linna, Dennis Dunaway, Richard Butler, Rachel Felder, and DJ Grand Wizzard Theodore in past editions.
VersoFest 2024 boasts an impressive lineup, including luminaries like the legendary Chuck D, celebrated music producer Tony Visconti (known for his work with David Bowie and T. Rex), and power pop sensations The Lemon Twigs. The full VersoFest schedule, anticipated to be released next week, promises a diverse range of performances, panels, and workshops – most of which are free or offered at market rates, thanks to the generous support of donors and Library programming funds.
Verso Studios, the venue for this spectacular event, is equipped with a state-of-the-art d&b sound system, rivaling the best venues, coupled with an 18-foot HD screen and multicamera recording capabilities. With a standing capacity of over 600, Verso Studios ensures an immersive and unforgettable concert experience for every attendee.
Spin Doctors YouTube video
The Spin Doctors band, boasting over 12 million albums sold and a GRAMMY nomination, are celebrating over three decades in the rock and roll realm. With a seventh studio album and a global tour on the horizon, their journey is far from over. The band’s origin story traces back to New York’s New School University in 1988. A chance encounter between drummer Aaron Comess and guitarist Eric Schenkman sparked the formation of what would become a legendary band. Initially performing as the Trucking Company, featuring Schenkman, John Popper, and Chris Barron, they quickly garnered attention. When Popper dedicated himself to Blues Traveler, the remaining members sought a new musical direction. Comess, after assuring Schenkman he would explore their sound, solidified a powerful rhythm section with Bronx-raised bassist Mark White. White’s initial impression upon meeting them was, “These are some funky-assed white boys,” a testament to their unique blend of rock and funk influences.
The nascent Spin Doctors band quickly became a fixture in the Lower Manhattan music scene. Their live performances were characterized by exceptional musicianship and an improvisational approach, with songs often extending into extended jams. This dynamic energy was captured in their 1991 live debut, Up For Grabs, where tracks showcased their ability to transform songs into expansive sonic explorations, some exceeding ten minutes. Alongside contemporaries like Blues Traveler, Phish, and Widespread Panic, the Spin Doctors played a pivotal role in bringing the jam-band ethos into the 90s, their influence subtly permeating the post-millennial resurgence of the scene.
The Spin Doctors’ distinctive sound and originality paved the way for a record deal with Epic Records. This partnership led to the creation of Pocket Full Of Kryptonite, an album that became synonymous with early 90s rock. “There was a feeling of magic in the band,” lead singer Barron reminisced, “and a belief in the air. That first record felt really innocent.”
Pocket Full Of Kryptonite‘s success soared during a period of music industry monoculture. The dominance of physical formats like CDs and cassettes, coupled with influential media outlets such as MTV, print magazines, and radio, created a powerful engine for album sales.
“When we were selling 50,000 records a week,” Barron recalled, “I’d walk into a mall to buy underwear and 300 kids would surround me.”
“Two Princes” became a defining anthem, reaching #4 on the Top 100 singles chart and solidifying its place as one of the most played rock singles on radio in 1993. The band’s ascent to fame included a Rolling Stone cover and even a memorable appearance on Sesame Street, showcasing their widespread appeal.
Following the phenomenal success of Pocket Full Of Kryptonite, the Spin Doctors band released You’ve Got To Believe In Something in 1996 and Here Comes The Bride in 1999. These albums marked periods of lineup changes within the band. Tragedy struck just weeks before Here Comes The Bride‘s release when Barron suffered a rare form of vocal cord paralysis, sidelining him for a year.
In 2001, with Barron’s recovery, the classic Spin Doctors lineup reunited for a significant performance: closing the legendary Manhattan club Wetlands, a venue where they honed their craft in their early days. The band continued their musical journey with 2005’s Nice Talking To Me, collaborating with producer Matt Wallace at the iconic Sound City studio, and 2013’s If The River Was Whiskey, which explored gritty blues roots reminiscent of their origins.
Spin Doctors live, Photo by Krupek Paweł Krupka
All of this rich history culminates in anticipation for what’s next – a new album is currently in development, promising fresh music from the Spin Doctors band.
“For the next album,” Barron shared, “I kinda want to stay spontaneous. I’d personally like to make a quarter-turn and do a rock record. But I have a feeling it’s gonna get funky.” Drawing a humorous parallel, he quoted Keith Richards reflecting on the Rolling Stones’ creative process, highlighting the unpredictable yet exciting nature of making music.
Opening for the Spin Doctors band at the VersoFest April 5th concert is Connecticut’s own singer-songwriter Nick Depuy. Depuy’s distinctive sound blends elements of old-time folk, country rock, jazz, and blues. His early talent was recognized by Bruce Lundvall, a music industry titan from Blue Note, Elektra, and Columbia Records, who hailed the 16-year-old Depuy as “the next James Taylor.”
Depuy’s career highlights include sharing stages with luminaries like Jimmy Webb, Neil Finn of Crowded House, and art-rock pioneers Procol Harum. His music has been featured on prominent radio and television channels, and he has graced stages at renowned venues and festivals across the tri-state area. Depuy’s debut LP, Don’t Be Sorry, is readily available on streaming platforms.
Don’t miss the chance to see the Spin Doctors band live at VersoFest 2024. It’s set to be an unforgettable night of 90s rock nostalgia and new musical energy!
VersoFest 2024 concerts are co-produced with the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.
