Strike Whilst The Iron Is Hot 15th Anniversary Online Show - Looking Past Nostalgia (08.21.2020)

Yes, I realize that this is late and a lot of things have happened since the event, but looking through my old pics and videos of events made me reminisce about a lot of things and this online gig came into mind.

A burst of nostalgia hit me with every song. I was taken back to high school where I played that album over and over again on my discman. Empoy started the show as a host but eventually sang with the band during the first few songs and after which it was time for the band to woo the audience. They played all their songs on the album, sometimes with mistakes as seen when they look at each other and laugh but while bringing the charm and rawness of a live performance. Jared Nerona added more depth to their sound with his excellent keyboard skills.

Production overall as great. The sound was clean and highlighted the instruments and vocals well. Framing could have used some work - space in the camera angle was given so that the elevated projection at the back could be seen but I would have liked it better if it were shot at eye level. There was also a raffle where the band drew - more like threw - names from a cup and the winners received merch. All in all, the nostalgia really made the event hit home to a lot of the viewers.

In hindsight, this event was a starting off point of a productive year for the band. Since the event, the band has released a new single, has announced new signings for Lilystar Records, and has announced new singles for bands under the record label for the next few months.

The re-emergence of this band into the modern era a few years ago was the first big break of JLE Music - videos from that secret gig at Mow’s received enormous attention and announced the return of a musical powerhouse. The anniversary gig was their acknowledgement of their impact on many people’s lives and proof that they’re here to push on and continue making a mark in everyone else’s lives.