Stats
Biography
The band formed in Gainesville in 1993, naming themselves Sister Hazel after a local missionary who ran a homeless shelter, coming together through all being established on the local scene. The five piece consists of Ken Block (guitarist.vocals), Andrew Copeland (guitarist/vocals), Ryan Newell (Lead guitarist), Jeff Beres (bassist) and Mark Trojanowski (drums).
They recorded their self-titled debut album in 1994 on Croakin' Poets, which was followed by their second in 1997, "…Somewhere More Familiar" which went on to sell 30,000 copies in its initial pressing. This drew the attention of major label, Universal Records, who signed the band and re-released the record. Their single "All For You" reached number 11 in the Billboard Hot 100, being a high point of their career.
Their third album was released in 2000, "Fortress" which featured the singles "Champagne High" and "Change Your Mind" which achieved moderate success. However, the band split from Universal three years later, moving to the Sixthman Label to release their fourth album, "Chasing Daylight" alongside a live album and DVD.
The band continued to release a steady stream of records, including a live acoustic album in 2008, titled "Before the Amplifiers, Live Acoustic." Their music has been used on several soundtracks, including "The Wedding Planner," "Bedazzled" and "10 Things I Hate About You."
Live reviews
Gainesville, Florida natives Sister Hazel have been doing their alternative rock thing for almost twenty years now, having released eight studio albums to date. They’ve had their music feature on soundtracks such as Clay Pigeons, Bedazzled, and 10 Things I Hate About You. They also made an appearance on the Fleetwood Mac Tribute album, in 1999 with their distinctive rendition of “Gold Dust Woman”. They are definitely one of those bands that a healthy balance of commercial and credible, with their huge debut single, “All For You”, which peaked in the US charts at 11, in 1997. They open this evening with “Life Got in The Way”, there is delay on the guitars as the lights go from dark to light, illuminating the stage. The harmonies are immediately locking around the wordy verses. Track 3 of their set “Just Remember” opens with an electric guitar solo, the lead guitarist, Ryan Newell, using his slide, which he is so well known for.
When they launch into “All For You”, they sing the chorus a capella as a pre song warm up, and the whole audience join in singing at the top of their lungs. Singer, Ken Block takes a step back from the microphone before starting the song to just take in the amazing audience reaction. The set, rightly so turned into a mutual appreciation society. An absolutely amazing live band, bringing back that 90’s alternative rock nostalgia, a point in time where bands like Sister Hazel, Three Doors Down, Counting Crows and more ruled the charts, the soundtracks of movies, and the radio airwaves.
The stage is black. Slowly, a single spotlight illuminates a lone figure at center stage, then another silhouettes someone to his left, and another to the right, until all five band members are lit up against the dark background. The opening chords of “All For You” ring out, and from that moment until the end of the show, Sister Hazel does not stop to rest. This admirably optimistic group of guys spend the rest of the night playing their songs, bantering with the audience and each other, and generally having fun. They offset their great music with contagious enthusiasm for what they do, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere that has the rolling ocean of a crowd constantly moving.
Sister Hazel is an alternative band from Florida known for their positive lyrics and lively, happy sound. From the release of their first album, Sister Hazel, in 1994 to their eighth and most recent album, Heartland Highway, released in 2010, Sister Hazel has never disappointed. They have been able to maintain the same high level of music, whether in the recording studio or on stage, and their raw talent shows every time. Whether you're singing along to “Happy” with Ken Block or playing air guitar to “Take A Bow”, you won't want to miss seeing Sister Hazel. Their unique sound and upbeat songs will leave you smiling for the rest of the night.
Small, intimate venue. Standing room mostly with high seats/tables on the outskirts. Alcohol available. This venue was next to Chattanooga Brewery and I highly recommend starting the night there before a show at the Signal.
Sister Hazel was wonderful! Very energetics and humorous. Played all the good songs and even some covers of famous bands.
Another wonderful show from Sister Hazel & openers Vintage Blue. These bands are fan-friendly crowd pleasers who never disappoint. Loved the mix of old, newer & brand new songs. It was nice hearing Champaign High full band!!
Enjoyed the personal touch band exuded when they interacted and joked with the audience..
After 2 decades, consistency and chemistry still remained in them. Liked that they played others' songs
Seamless setlist!