Have you ever had an experience that was so magical that you couldn’t quite find the words to explain exactly how impactful the experience was? That was my experience at my first Papadosio concert, which was a two night jam fest at Madison Theatre in Covington, Ky.
Hippie culture and jam bands have been around for many years. Everyone knows the Grateful Dead and the deadhead following; however, I have personally seen a resurgence of this culture after the Covid era. Don’t get me wrong. This culture has never died. It just has grown and flourished in recent years in my personal experience. The sense of love, acceptance, creativity, and freedom is simply invigorating and contagious to not only witness but be a part of.
Night 1: Setting the Mood
The first night opened with Somatoas, a DJ who set the mood with an eclectic mix of electronic beats and mesmerizing visuals. The atmosphere was electric, and you could feel the excitement and anticipation building as the night progressed and the venue filled with fans waiting for Papadosio to grace the stage.
Papadosio’s set list on the first night was nothing short of spectacular. They played a mix of their classic hits and newer material, each song blending seamlessly into the next. The band’s improvisational style kept the audience on their toes, never knowing what to expect next. The energy in the room was palpable, with fans dancing and singing along to every note. The light show that accompanied the music was a whole art show within itself.
Night 2: A Night to Remember
Night 2 started with a VIP meet and greet where fans got to meet the band, got merch signed, and even posed for a group photo.
As the doors opened, and the crowd flooded in on the second night, energy and anticipation was even more electric than night 1, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable night. The show on night two opened with local Cincinnati band, Mind at Large. Their psychedelic rock was a perfect pairing to Papadosio’s style, and they captivated the audience from the first note of their opening song, their newest odyssey, Blue Weller. Mind at Large primed the crowd and there was a palpable buzz filling Madison Theater for their entire set.
The highlight of the night was when Papadosio took the stage, and the crowd erupted in cheers and applause. The lights dimmed, and the band launched into an extended jam that had everyone dancing and swaying to the rhythm. The combination of lights, sound, and the sheer talent of the band created an otherworldly experience that transported the audience to another place.
The Community
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Papadosio concert was the sense of community among the fans. There was a tangible sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that permeated the crowd. Strangers became friends, united by their love for the music and the shared experience. The sense of acceptance and openness was truly heartwarming.
People of all ages and backgrounds came together to celebrate and enjoy the music. The diverse crowd added to the richness of the experience, each person bringing their unique energy and enthusiasm to the event. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring people together and create lasting connections.
Live painters were spread throughout the venue, adding an immersive and inclusive art experience with a touch of live art creation that beautifully complemented the music. Watching the artists create in real-time, inspired by the music, was a unique and captivating experience.
Advocates of Change, a nonprofit dedicated to creating safer, more productive, and thriving communities, was also present at the show to support the artists and spread their mission.
The Madison Theatre Experience
Madison Theatre itself is a venue that deserves special mention. Its intimate setting allows for a close connection between the performers and the audience, creating a more personal and engaging experience. The acoustics are excellent, ensuring that every note is heard clearly and beautifully.
Madison Theatre is a beautiful hidden gem in northern Kentucky that hosts some of the best music around. With ample parking and plenty of small local businesses, restaurants, breweries, and bars in the surrounding area, you can find plenty to do before and after the show.
Reflecting on the Experience
As I reflect on my two nights at my first Papadosio concert, I am filled with gratitude for the experience. It was a reminder of the power of live music to inspire, uplift, and connect us. The combination of incredible music, a welcoming community, and a fantastic venue made for an unforgettable experience. The music, the people, and the atmosphere all came together to create an experience that I will cherish for a long time. It was a celebration of creativity, connection, and the joy of live music. Both nights were a multi-sensory experience that was both mesmerizing and unforgettable.
Papadosio recently announced a hiatus from the touring life after their current tour concludes. The band reminds together and plans to continue to write and record new music, as well as explore other ventures in life that they haven’t been able to experience in their nearly two decades of touring far and wide. Their talent, creativity, and passion for their craft are truly something to behold, and I cannot wait to see what their new chapter brings.
The founder of Happy Hippie Creative, Courtney Bell, was born and raised in Western Kentucky, where she developed an early interest in art and photography. She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Arts Administration and moved to the Cincinnati area in 2019. She has worked with various clients and organizations, such as local businesses, nonprofits, and festivals, to showcase their stories and products through her images.
Courtney Bell is not only a photographer, but also an avid art, music and live performance lover. She loves supporting her local communities and attending events that celebrate the diversity and culture of Cincinnati, OH. She loves using her time and skills to document and promote the work of local artists, musicians, and performers. She believes that art and photography can bring people together and inspire positive change in the world.
