For many people music is a passion that runs deep. The sound of live music can speak to a person in ways that can’t be put into words. A weekend concert festival is an escape and often described as heaven. Hotel Carolina is exactly that experience. A two-day music festival filled with some very talented indie singer-songwriters.
The festival originated in Isle of Palms, South Carolina in September, 2009. It was held at the Windjammer, a great beachfront music venue. Rock Ridge Music, an independent label and management company, turned the event into an annual festival filled with friends, drinks, games, and of course music.
This year, for the first time, Rock Ridge added a second date in Philadelphia. On Friday 1/28 and Saturday 1/29, the music filled the Grape Room in the Manayunk section of the city. The venue had two stages set. Downstairs was set for the main acts, while upstairs had a more laid back underground feel, which produced a great acoustic setting.
People traveled from all over to be a part of the event. Virginia, South Carolina, Florida, Connecticut, and New York were just some of the states being represented by fans. When asked, most people had an artist they were most excited about seeing. Some said Matt Duke and Todd Carey; others couldn’t wait to hear Ernie Halter. No matter who they came in to see though they all came out blown away by the talent.
One great thing about going to a festival is always discovering new artists. Hearing someone’s music for the first time live can really give you a sense of what their music is all about. You go to see a band you like but your favorite performance is always someone you had never heard of. The case was no different for many at Hotel Carolina.
The first performance Friday night was a young act by the name of Say Chance, three girls from Boston. They joked on stage about how they were old enough to play the show but had to leave right after since they weren’t 21. As performers they showed great maturity with a well-developed sound. Kelly Rosenthal plays guitar while Maddie Freeman and Taylor Broom trade off vocals with amazing harmony. They demonstrate powerful voices filled with character and passion. The highlight of their set came from an amazing cover of Duffy’s Mercy. These girls have extreme talent and youth on their side.
Keaton Simons was up next and his performance didn’t disappoint. His voice has great character with a sexy appeal. The set was filled with guest appearances by Matt Duke and Tony Lucca. Simons came across as a strong storyteller who really knew how to engage the audience.
One shock of the night was Ernie Halter, a little guy with a big voice. He was a one-man act playing the acoustic guitar. Something great about indie music is its ability to be stripped down. When it’s just a guitar and voice you can really hear the talent.
The night finished off with two acts that really got the party jumping. Todd Carey was fun
and energetic with upbeat songs that had the crowd dancing along. He surprised everyone when he covered “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”. With a full band, Ingram Hill finished off the night in a great indie rock fashion. They played some old classics and debuted a couple songs from an upcoming album. The crowd was definitely having fun as the night came to an end. It was time to get some rest for day two.
In total there were 18 performers schedule to entertain both evenings but that’s not all Rock Ridge had in store. On Saturday afternoon they ran Camp Carolina, an adventure in games and mayhem. Everyone who purchased tickets was invited to come out and play. Participants were divided into teams with captains being different artists from the weekend’s line-up. The most creative and entertaining game was a twist on the traditional version of Mad Libs. Each team picked words that filled in the blanks of famous songs. When Jared McCloud and Dave Pittenger sang a very inappropriate version of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”, the audience was in stitches.
After a couple hour break, the music started again and even though it didn’t seem possible to top the previous evening, Hotel Carolina did. Caleb Hawley brought a unique sound to the main stage. He was fun, energetic, and funny. The most notable song was one he wrote about his 3rd grade girlfriend. It was humorous and entertaining. Another strength was his ability to take pop songs, such as LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It” or Destiny’ Child’s “Say My Name,” and spin them into fun acoustic covers. The crowd enjoyed his spirit and danced along.
Upstairs a young talented performer from New Jersey named Sarah Miles played a short but beautiful set. The power in her voice captivated as her lyrics told a story. The highlight of her set was a duet with Matt Duke, which has yet to be recorded. These two performers harmonized beautifully. The vibe in the room was similar to sitting in a coffee house, just a girl and her guitar. Her talent is undeniable. Watch for good things to come from Sarah.
There is always one band that comes in and blows the crowd away. At Hotel Carolina, that band was Delta Rae. With powerful four part harmonies, the band captivated the audience. It is apparent their influences lie in southern rock with a gospel feel. Brittany and Elizabeth, the two females in the band, demonstrated soulful and powerful vocals. Brittany’s brother’s Ian and Eric rounded out the harmonies while playing the guitar and keys. The use of a large bass drum added character and emotion to their songs. “Bottom of the River” is a mostly acapella song that demonstrates what a real talent these performers have. Their sound is different and compelling.
The last two sets came from Tony Lucca and Matt Duke. Lucca is an amazing songwriter with a smooth rock blues sound. Highlight performances include the energetic “Foxy Jane,” a crowd favorite, and the beautiful “Anchored.” Matt Duke brought the energy at the end of the night when he played for his hometown. A Philadelphia native his voice will surprise you. There is a rock character that you wouldn’t expect to come from this guy. You instantly feel like your routing for the underdog kid from school.
To cap of the night, every artist from the weekend climbed on stage and performed a group version of Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer.” The crowd sang along as everyone swayed. People, who at the beginning of the weekend were strangers from all around the country, were now joined together as family. Music is about collaborations, emotions, and a sense of community. Hotel Carolina, Philadelphia was a magical moment in time that showcased amazing talent and passion.
The weekend is over but now its time to look to the future, as Hotel Carolina will invade Isle of Palms, SC again in September.
http://www.welcometothehotelcarolina.com/
(the site is already down for the Philly event and previewing SC in the fall)
Performers:
Say Chance – http://www.SayChanceMusic.com 
Keaton Simons – www.keatonsimons.com
Ernie Halter – www.erniehalter.com
Todd Carey – www.toddcareymusic.com
Ingram Hill – www.ingramhillmusic.com
Caleb Hawley – www.calebhawley.com
Delta Rae - www.deltarae.com
Tony Lucca – www.tonylucca.com (side note, he used to be on The Mickey Mouse Club and will be on The Voice this season)
Matt Duke – www.mattdukemusic.com
Sarah Miles - http://www.sarahmilesmusic.com/
Jared McCloud - http://www.jaredmccloud.com
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