Talent, unity abound at local music awards
So informal were this year's Boston Music Awards that it almost didn't seem to matter who won. They were once a more ornate affair held at either the Orpheum or the Wang Theatre, but last night they took place for the second time at the Avalon club. The mood felt more like a backyard barbecue -- and a rare unity was enjoyed between the city's many musical factions. Winners and presenters ranged from Keith Lockhart of the Boston Pops to hot local rockers Dear Leader and Lost City Angels, plus senior-citizen bluesman Weepin' Willie, who won a lifetime achievement trophy.
Singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne was the main winner with three awards (including album of the year for ''Trouble") and the Dropkick Murphys and the Perceptionists won two apiece. Acceptance speeches were brief and full of pride for the city -- and it was a true multicultural success.
''It means a lot when hip-hop has a place in this town," said DJ Fakts One, accepting a rap/hip-hop award for the Perceptionists, who had an outstanding year. There was a time when hip-hop was a sidelight to the Boston Music Awards, but that era has passed, though rock and pop still dominate the proceedings. The Perceptionists also won a trophy for album of the year (independent label) for ''Black Dialogue."
Other major winners were Dear Leader for local album, country-rocker Sarah Borges for local debut album, the Lost City Angels for punk band (though member Adam Shaw said from the stage that ''we're not a punk band -- we're a hard-rock band!"), Killswitch Engage for hard rock act, Averi for local pop/rock band, the Click 5 for new local act, and the Dresden Dolls for best live act. Dolls singer Amanda Palmer also won for local female vocalist.
The area's trend toward roots and Americana music was well-represented with Dennis Brennan and son Jake winning awards. The only big gaffe of the night was when Chris Kirkpatrick (of 'N Sync fame) presented Jake with his award for best local male vocalist, but mispronounced his name as ''Jack." That became the butt of jokes for the rest of the night.
The performances, more than the awards, were the real story. Aerosmith's Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer gave the Hall of Fame award to the Neighborhoods, who played a strong mini-set recalling their punk-pop zenith. Weepin' Willie was backed beautifully by a band including James Montgomery, Mike Welch, and Johnny A, while Dear Leader, Apollo Sunshine, and Mieka Pauley also left their mark. But the act that stole the show was the Vermont-based Grace Potter & the Nocturnals. She began by singing an a cappella gospel tune, then played some searing organ licks when the band cut in. The room was transfixed.
Heartwarming moments came when Lori McKenna (who contributed several songs to Faith Hill's new CD) won best female singer-songwriter and proudly told the crowd she also has five children; and the presentation of an unsung hero award to Asa Brebner, who has backed or mentored innumerable bands in his multi-decade Boston career.
