When I found out that Mac Saturn was throwing on their Chelsea boots and coming down to Arkansas, I knew I had to buy a ticket.
I was fortunate enough to get barricade on guitarist Nick Barone’s side, with a front row view of the old school rock and roll that Mac Saturn brought to the stage.
The band started with their hit single “Diamonds,” with Nick and lead guitarist Mike Moody bringing a powerful opening riff. Drummer Angelo Coppola and bassist Jive Moses built up the perfect rhythm for lead vocalist Carson Macc to make an explosive entry.
The band led the crowd smoothly through “Diamonds” and right into “Persian Rugs,” which is my personal favorite. “Persian Rugs” boasts powerful vocals, a killer guitar solo by Mike that gave me chills, and a drum solo by Angelo that was nothing but pure rock and roll.
The Detroit rockers owned the stage, and I remember thinking “wow, these guys were meant to perform.” Carson’s stage presence can be described as nothing less than electric. He interacted with the crowd the entire show, making every member of the crowd feel seen and heard.
And yes, he did make eye contact with me. And yes, I got butterflies.
About halfway through their setlist, the band teased what could possibly be a new single. Angelo and Jive slowed down the beat from hard hitting rock and roll to a smooth R&B sound that had the crowd swaying. Carson mentioned the song was titled “Five Long Minutes” and was something the band was “just trying out.”
During this song was when Carson truly displayed his abilities as a front man. As his band members jammed out with a smooth rhythm and bluesy riffs, Carson took the time to personally introduce each member one by one, describing Nick’s guitar as a “guillotine” and pretending to pray to him as he churned out riff by powerful riff.
The band kept the smooth R&B feel with “Plain Clothes Gentleman,” their closing song.
As the band left the stage, Nick and Mike gave out their picks, and I was fortunate enough to snag Nick’s as he flashed me a smile.
After the band left the stage, I made my way out to the merch booth where I was fortunate enough to meet Carson. On stage he is explosive, but in person he is the kindest, gentlest person you will ever meet.
After a warm hug and a sweet conversation, I snapped a quick picture with him before leaving for the night with nothing but memories that will last a lifetime.
Be on the lookout for Mac Saturn in your area, and if you get the chance, strap on your Chelsea boots and your denim vest and head out to see them.