Live in Sinatra Park, Hoboken
Although a contemporary to the recent condo construction nightmares that have littered the once tiny haven of Hoboken, Sinatra Park is a welcome escape space. Set against a back drop of Downtown NYC, it has become a popular spot for biking, blading, walking, playing football, the occasional reading of a book and now music. I think the addition of musical performances is a logical one, considering the park’s namesake.
There is also a cafe where you can get fairly decent, albeit pricey, food reminiscent of the Jersey Shore and cold soda or beer. So, with my burger and very, very small soda in hand, I found a seat among the impressively growing crowd of onlookers and waited for the music. There was a friendly family picnic vibe in the air as toddlers danced like Mick Jagger and nervous young parents tried to keep them from falling into the Hudson River. The ducks even gathered along the rocky shore to enjoy show.
The lights of Manhattan slowly brightened in the background and a cool breeze welcomed the approaching summer evening as eugene began their set. Tonight’s line up was short their lead guitarist. Thankfully, the strength of the material is such that it has always holds up no matter what the group’s particular incarnation may be. The addition of percussionist Jamie Serino of the band Chasing Sunday was a pleasant twist. Unfortunately, no mic was set up for him so much of his contribution was getting lost in the mix.
The reputation of these hometown favorites is spreading beyond the borders of The Mile Square proving that their popularity has a lot more to do with the quality of their music than their geographic origin. Well-crafted, groove-filled melodic tunes mixed with a smooth sense of harmony and an impressive presence. Always a Grade-A performance both live and on their CD “Who is Eugene”.
