Last Thursday American Authors graced the student green with an hour-long set, featuring their old and new hits alike. They were welcomed as part of Kent State University’s Flash Fest – our annual spring festival – and they didn’t disappoint.
Most known for their single, “Best Day of My Life” which was strategically placed at the end of their set, the band brought out many different sounds from folk to blues to pop. Members Zac Barnett, James Shelley, Dave Rublin and Matt Sanchez brought out electric and acoustic guitars, drums, banjos and tambourines while all taking part in harmonizing when needed to complement Barnett.
I haven’t listened to them since 2015 and was pleased to recognize many songs off their first album and sang along accordingly. Hearing their newer songs released on their third album, “Seasons” definitely sparked my interest in their music once again.
Barnett tried to get the crowd moving and excited. I was pretty close to the stage so I didn’t get a good feel for the overall audience but there were many people who didn’t know their songs and became a fan and some that just wanted a photo op with a hot musician. Overall I thought it was a great setlist and a great experience to have at Kent State University.