Day 2

As we arrived on Saturday, we found our friend Gilf in the early stages of her impressive  Wall(Russ) mural in the art garden. We’re so thankful for her hard work, as she completed the mural in about 6 hours! Saturday’s musical festivities began with a set from DJ Jago. Jago is a young man who we’ve had the pleasure of seeing develop over the last few years after he won AFP’s Clash of the Artists competitions at age 13.  Jake has developed a  forward, high energy sound that appeals to anyone who likes to shake it on the dance floor. Taking the stage around 7:30pm, Minnie and Aya delivered our first live music performance of the day, and they did not disappoint.  Their smooth, soulful sounds were the perfect start to a great night of music.  Next up, was long-time friend of AFP and talented DJ Sal Leone. Sal treated our guests to a mix of deep and classic grooves as we got ready for Lachi and Meridian Gold to perform.  In the art garden, Caridad Sola was preparing for her performance piece, “Deliver us from Eve-Il” which morphs the urban legend of razor blades in apples with the story of the forbidden fruit and original sin.  Caridad has a way of enticing people into her world, and then completely turning the tables on what’s expected.  Sherri Aliberti’s “Green Cocoon” performance piece was also a crowd pleaser, while Iliana Quander‘s interactive “Trash Couture” installation involved some unexpected additions. We’ll just say that the takers likely puffed away as they strolled up Meadow Street on their way to the L train.

Back on stage, Lachi was showcasing her distinct voice and thoughtful lyrics that take over a room when she performs.  Taking over on the decks, Time Out NY’s Bruce Tantum treated us to a quality set of funky tech as the room began to fill in anticipation of Comandante Zero‘s performance.  With a bunch of new tracks to showcase, the band took the stage with much anticipation, and the result was more than impressive.  Comanadante Zero has performed at many AFP events over the last several years, and you can be sure that you’ll be seeing them at many more!  Apollo Heights was next to take the stage for our final live music performance of day 2. We have been trying to book this band since we met them at PS1 a few years ago, and we were happy to finally have the opportunity to present them.  Their guitar driven psychedelic sound was the perfect ending to a very diverse line-up of artists on Saturday.

As the night winded down, DJ Bass Control took over the decks with a set of his fresh, electro beats that we have grown accustomed to at AFP events. Overall, it was another thrilling night at The Paper Box!

To be continued with a Day 3 review..