Imagine zooming down the highway on a beautiful summer day, the wind whistling by as music blasts out the car windows. The American indie folk band The 502s encapsulates these good-time feelings in their music — turning fun, Florida sunshine-soaked vibes, into a reality.
The self-proclaimed “happiest band on Earth” — currently on their 27-city “Great American Road Trip” tour across North America — made a pit stop at Boston’s House of Blues April 25. The 502s rang in the warmer weather in Boston while promoting their self-titled album, which was released April 12.
Helmed by the group’s creator, Ed Isola, on lead vocals, banjo and acoustic guitar, the squad currently includes Joe Capati on saxophone and trumpet; Matthew Tonner on the keyboard and electric guitar; Sean Froehlich on the drums; Nicholas Dallas on bass and Graci Phillips on guitar.
Alternative folk artist Daniel Nunnelee opened the concert and has been traveling with the group. Nunnelee has supported several of the band’s party-like gigs while they tour the country. Following his heartstring-tugging act, The 502s burst onto the stage at the packed House of Blues. Led by Isola, who was decked out in a blue and white Hawaiian-pattern beach shirt and matching pants, the venue was rocking from the group’s first strum and hit of the drum.
In what Isola said was its biggest show of the tour, the band mixed the old with the new in its setlist, performing hits like “Magdalene” and “Just A Little While,” along with songs from its new album like “hey, honey,” and “Something’s Gonna Go Our Way.” While The 502s’ set was only about an hour long, they were still able to bring the house (of Blues) down with their bubbly, high-octane performance.
With a neon 502s sign shining in the background and colorful lei necklaces adorning instrument stands, the on-stage setup paid homage to the origin of the group’s unique name — the street address of Isola’s childhood home in Florida. With the scene set, The 502s were able to bring Florida’s finest beach folk to life — highlighting this vibe on their T-shirts and merchandise found at their merch stand throughout the night.
Just like The 502s, the crowd never stood still. Hopping, jumping and dancing to match the band’s energy, the group created an electric atmosphere that lasted all night long. The crowd connection flourished and exploded, creating a lively and unforgettable concert experience.
