Bama Belle Beats: A Review of Costa Greekfest 2012

Being the Southern girl I am, I absolutely love music because it is a big part of Southern culture. So I decided to take an "Almost Famous" twist and give a review of Costa Greekfest 2012 at The University of Alabama.

First Act- The night kicked off with a band called John Tyler & the Northern Lights. When I first heard their music, it reminded me of a band that would've performed at Woodstock. This band played a eclectic mix of classic and Southern rock with a dash of soul. At one point, JT&NL played a decent (not excellent, but decent) cover of "Honky Tonk Woman" originally by The Stones. This band might be unheard of, but they could have potential to make themselves known, especially in the Southeast.

Second Act- Next was a band called Umphrey's McGee. UM's music was interesting to say the least. Mainly, it was psychedelic funk and rock with a little bit of reggae. Their music has a beat that is irresistible to move along to. While I have heard of this band before, I haven't heard their music until tonight. However after listening to the cosmic chords of the guitar, I think I might be more of a UM fan now.

Final Act- For the grand finale, there was Nelly. Yes, that Nelly--along with his St. Lunatics (all decked out in Alabama gear)! Immediately, it took me back to my middle school years, when I would listen and jam out to Nelly at home, school dances, and friends' birthday parties. Tonight, he performed a medley of his greatest hits, such as "E.I" and "Country Grammar". And of course, you can't forget about "Hot in Herre" and "Shake Ya Tailfeather". Then, there were the more mellow songs, such as "Just A Dream", "Ober and Over", and "Dilemma". Definitely a Grade A performance from one of my favorite rappers from childhood!

Overall, this year's Costa Greekfest was pretty good with a fair mix of rock, funk, and hip-hop. For the past few years, the acts have been so-so and have not quite matched up to the first annual Greekfest in 2008 featuring Sister Hazel and Blues Traveler. However, this year's show has brought back the hype, thanks to Nelly & the St. Lunatics. Can't wait to see what next year will be like!

~Rachel