By Victoria Joven, SDAM Staff Writer
©Copyright 2024 SDAM.com

Female vocalists intrigue me because I find myself living vicariously through them. I mean, who wouldn't want the chance to be up on stage rockin' it out in front of hundreds or even thousands of people. Anyway, I was at school one day when I heard that a band was performing on campus, so I figured this was opportunity knockin' on my door to once again live it up like a rock star, well at least as part of the audience, so I decided to stick around. The show featured a band called Danielle LoPresti and the Masses. The show was held at the courtyard of the Aztec Center at San Diego State University where shows are usually held once a week. I decided to find a place to sit since folks were starting to fill up the benches for the lunchtime rush. A few minutes later, Danielle and the band took the stage. From the first beat the drummer played, the energy in the courtyard was just out of control, in a good way! Danielle on lead vocals displayed the power to belt out strong and sensual melodies, while Keith Jefferson on background vocals was able to provide beautiful harmonies. The band is made up of Kelly Bowen, San Diego State's own, on bass. It was awesome to see a female bass player up there. Then, there's David Bloom on guitar and Kevin Dow on drums. I was impressed by the way the band played together to produce an awesome set. These folks definitely knew how to get the crowd going. The first song was full of energy and definitely set the mood of the show along with the choreography by Danielle and Keith. I enjoyed the choreography and the entire band's ability to groove to the music because I've seen one too many bands that just stand up there like they were robots. With this band, there was never a dull moment. Danielle filled the breaks between songs with jokes that kept the crowd entertained. The audience definitely received much more that they had bargained for. This proved that this group could captivate their audience through their music as well as their ability to entertain. I didn't catch the entire set because after all, I am but a student who can only dream of rock stardom but I did enjoy what I saw and from the looks on the audience's faces and from the sound of their applause, they enjoyed it as much as I did. This is an act whose show I would definitely see again. CD Review: "Dear Mr. Penis Head" This album is definitely for the masses, well, at least the catchy melodies. I'm pretty sure that when Danielle LoPresti and the Masses got together, they had every intention of getting their sound to anyone and everyone who had the ability to listen and feel the emotions that they were trying to convey. However, if you take the time to listen to every word that flows out of Danielle's mouth, you'll soon find that this album may not be cut out for those who lack the ability to appreciate music beyond its surface. Her straight-to-the-heart lyrics that touch on the truth behind the music world, love, feminism, and people's differences may pierce a little, but at the same time send you to think far beyond what you can even grasp. Definitely check out track number 5 and 8. It takes a greater appreciation for music for one to know that this is an album that is a step above the rest. Beyond the catchy melodies is an effort to speak to the heart of those who are willing to listen. When this album makes its way to your CD player, close your eyes and be ready for the ride. More about this important local group on their Web site: DanielleAndTheMasses.com