Salsa Ithacana: A Perfect Blend of Music and Atmosphere

Playing a gig with my band Salsa Ithacana at Liquid State North Shore in Romulus was a fun experience. This event stood out not only because of the music but also due to the unique setting and the warm, family-friendly atmosphere of the venue.

The Vibrant Atmosphere

Liquid State North Shore, known for its high-quality, small-batch beers, is a popular spot in Romulus. The North Shore location features outdoor patio seating, beer-to-go options, and is pet-friendly, which makes it an ideal venue for a wide range of events. This brewery offers a variety of beers and ciders, and their guests particularly enjoy the wood-fired pizzas and other limited food items available. The environment is both relaxed and inviting, perfect for a casual evening out.

Liquid State North Shore has a family-friendly atmosphere that was evident throughout the evening. Kids and their parents enjoyed the indoor arcade-style games, and as the weather cooled, families moved outdoors to play lawn games. The setting was perfect for our music, as salsa can be both engaging and unobtrusive, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Adapting the Setup

We had played at Liquid State North Shore a few months prior with our blues band Blue Train, performing on their outdoor stage. However, this time, the weather presented a challenge. When we arrived, it was scorching hot, and the outdoor stage was directly in the sunlight. To ensure everyone’s comfort, we decided to set up on the side of the porch instead. This location provided much-needed shade and created a more intimate setting for our performance.

A Unique Configuration

For this gig, we had a slightly unconventional setup for a salsa band. The configuration included guitar, bass, and timbales, but no conga. While it’s unusual to play salsa music without a conga, we embraced the challenge. Salsa Ithacana is not strictly traditional anyway; salsa bands rarely feature a guitar, let alone being led by one.

Despite the initial adjustment period, we quickly found our groove. The first set involved getting used to the ‘open’ sound of the trio without the conga. It took a few songs to relax into the new arrangement, but by the second set, we were fully immersed in the music, creating a relaxed and groovy atmosphere that the audience loved.

The Musical Experience

Our setlist included a mix of salsa styles such as Salsa, Guajira, Merengue, Cha Cha Cha, Bolero, Bembe, and Samba. Each style brought a different flavor to the performance, and it was fascinating to see how the audience responded to each. The open sound of the trio allowed for a different dynamic, and it was a fun challenge to fill the space creatively without the conga.

Why Salsa Ithacana is a Great Fit for Wineries

Salsa Ithacana is a fantastic choice for venues like Liquid State North Shore for several reasons:

1. A Nice Change of Pace: As the manager who paid me mentioned, our music offers a refreshing change of pace from the usual live performances. It’s something different that stands out.

2. Family Entertainment: Our music appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family-oriented venues. Kids, parents, and even grandparents can enjoy the rhythms and melodies of salsa music.

3. Uplifting Music: Salsa music is inherently uplifting. It brings joy and energy to any event, creating a positive atmosphere that resonates with the audience.

4. Versatility: Our music can serve as superior background music for conversations or as the main entertainment for dancing. It’s not as in-your-face as rock, making it easier for people to enjoy while still being engaging enough to get people moving.

Personal Highlights

One of the personal highlights of the evening was the adaptability of our trio. Initially concerned about the missing conga, I found myself enjoying the creative freedom it provided. The audience’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive, which was gratifying.

Another memorable moment was the interaction with the families. Seeing kids playing and dancing to our music was heartwarming. Music has a unique way of bringing people together, and it was clear that everyone was having a great time.

Conclusion

Playing at Liquid State North Shore with Salsa Ithacana was a wonderful experience that highlighted the versatility and appeal of salsa music. The venue’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with the scenic beauty and high-quality offerings, made it an ideal setting for our performance.

The success of this gig reinforces why I love playing live music and why venues like Liquid State North Shore are perfect for our style. It’s not just about the music; it’s about creating an environment where people of all ages can come together, enjoy themselves, and make lasting memories. I look forward to many more performances at this fantastic venue.