Photos and Review by David Molnar – The Machine, an acclaimed Pink Floyd tribute band, stopped at the Academy of Music in Western Massachusetts and delivered an electrifying two-hour performance at the historic Northampton, Massachusetts theater. The evening started with a mesmerizing rendition of “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” setting a nostalgic tone that resonated with the audience. As the show progressed, the band captivated fans with faithful performances of iconic tracks such as “Have a Cigar”, “Learning to Fly”, “Another Brick in the Wall” and “Comfortably Numb”, each song capturing the essence of Pink Floyd’s original compositions. The Machine’s own website notes the band’s “30+ year reputation of extending the musical legacy of Pink Floyd.” The New York-based quartet, founded in 1988 by late guitarist Joe Pascarell and current drummer Tahrah Cohen performed a diverse mix from Pink Floyd’s extensive song catalog “complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems.” the website notes..
The Machine’s dedication to authenticity was evident not only in their musical abilities but also in their elaborate stage production. The combination of dynamic lighting and immersive visual effects enhanced the packed house’s experience, transporting attendees back to the heyday of Pink Floyd’s legendary concerts. The band’s commitment to recreating the intricate sound and the visual atmosphere of the original recordings ensured that both longtime fans and newcomers experienced a truly memorable evening. The Machine consists of Cohen (drums), Ryan Ball (guitarist), Scott Chasolen (keyboards) and Chris Deangelis (bass). Spin Magazine noted “The Machine look nothing like Pink Floyd, but that doesn’t matter – they sound exactly like Pink Floyd and that’s what matters.” The tour has 18 more stops in New Jersey, Florida, Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, and concludes in Pennsylvania in November.
