Humans should already be inhabiting Mars by now! Mars and Voyager 1’s iconic Pale Blue Dot take center stage.
The vibrant performance by alternative rockers Andy Frasco and the U.N. at Irving Plaza in New York City on Friday night mesmerized the audience with their high-energy set featuring original songs. The band’s new song “Try Not to Die” struck a chord with the audience, incorporating Carl Sagan’s iconic quote about Voyager 1’s “Pale Blue Dot” image of Earth as a tiny speck in space. Frasco’s lyrics delved into the idea of human progress, lamenting the stagnation of humanity by expressing that we should have been living on Mars by now, reflecting a universal yearning for exploration and advancement.
Frasco, set to release his new album “Growing Pains” on May 23, joins a league of musicians inspired by space exploration, particularly Mars. This trend in space-themed music has seen various artists like Pearl Jam, The Claypool Lennon Delirium, Coheed and Cambria, and Joe Satriani creating music infused with cosmic themes. Their work often draws from the mysteries and allure of our neighboring Red Planet, igniting creativity and connection with the vast expanse of outer space.
One of the standout moments of the performance was when renowned bass player Karina Rykman, known for her debut album “Joyride” and appearances on “Late Night With Seth Meyers,” joined the band on stage for an electrifying jam session. With artists increasingly drawing inspiration from the wonders of the universe, one can’t help but wonder if Rykman’s career as a jam rock singer-songwriter will someday incorporate themes of Mars or space exploration.
The band’s repertoire also included the enchanting track “Iowa Moon,” a love song that evokes imagery of city lights, starlit skies, and the comforting presence of our celestial companion, the moon. In a world fraught with challenges, Andy Frasco and the U.N. provided a much-needed escape and a reminder of the transcendent power of music to uplift and unite audiences. Their performance at Irving Plaza was not just a concert, but a testament to the transformative nature of live music and its ability to bring people together in joy and harmony.
As the night unfolded with cosmic melodies and electrifying energy, it underscored the enduring appeal of space-themed music and the universal fascination with the mysteries of the cosmos. Through their captivating performance, Andy Frasco and the U.N. captured the essence of exploration, imagination, and the boundless possibilities of the universe, leaving the audience with a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty of the cosmos.