Kissmas Bash 2015 Meshes Old & New

Concert Review
Kissmas Bash 2015
First Niagara Center
Buffalo, NY
Sunday December 13, 2015
Review/Photos: Joseph Suto

It was a mix of new upstart acts along with some established stars as the 2015 edition of WKSE’s filed into The First Niagara Center Sunday. The show featured ten acts in all and began with Becky G who went on at 5 pm. The show featured the big three of Robin Thicke, Adam Lambert and Shawn Mendes. Whenever Mendes was mentioned by the KISS 98.5 staff it was usually followed by a large scream which almost sounded like a mini Beatlemania moment.

Along with the aforementioned acts the show also included Silento, OMI, Charlie Puth, Nathan Sykes, Alessia Cara and Jocelyn Alice.

The very photogenic Rebbeca Maria Gomez better known as Becky G Started things off. She strutted her stuff as she ended her brief set with her two biggest songs “Break A Sweat” and “Shower”.

Canadian Jocelyn Alice appeared next as she played on the second stage (something new this year for this event) that was set up on the floor behind the soundboard. From her expressions you could tell she really enjoyed her time in the spotlight on this particular night. She shone on her recent hit “Jackpot”. Keep an eye on her as I expect you will hear more from this artist in the future.

It was back to the main stage for Jamaican American singer Omar Samuel Pasley best known as OMI. You knew he would not leave without playing his best known songs “Cheerleader” and “Hula Hoop”.

Alessia Cara was up next and she opened some eyes during her stingy 20-minute set. During her performance both Becky G and Jocelyn Alice came out to watch her perform. She ended with her big hit “Here”.

Another star in the making singer songwriter Nathan Sykes was up next. He played on the second stage and played his two biggest songs to date the number one dance smash “Kiss Me Quick” and “Over And Over Again”. Sandwiched between was a festive version of the holiday classic “White Christmas” to help get people into the holiday frame of mind.

Robin Thicke a veteran of the music industry followed. The singer, songwriter and producer has done it all. He also has had many collaborations during his career with many established artists most notable among those were with Usher and Lil’ Wayne.

Staying on the main stage Charlie Puth played next. Puth sat behind the piano during his twenty-five minute set. He saved mega hit “See You Again” for last as he dedicated it to the late actor Paul Walker. The song was used as a tribute to Walker in his final movie Furious 7.

Silento closed out the festivities on the second stage as he had the crowd in the palm of his hands. Another lad to watch out for as he is only seventeen years old. Definitely expect to hear more from the young hip hop artist.

Shawn Mendes took to the main stage immediately as Silento’s set concluded. Mendes kept it simple as he played solo with just a guitar. Mendes is another youngster (he is only seventeen as well) the crowd thoroughly enjoyed. Mendes set featured all his big songs such as “Something Big”, “Life Of The Party” and the top ten “Stitches”.

Whoever decided that Adam Lambert should close out the evening was an absolute genius. Lambert by far had the best performance of the night. His powerful vocals really stood out during his set. The one time American Idol runner-up who has toured with remaining Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor gave the crowd a good dose of his three solo releases. Notable songs included “If I Had You” and this biggest song “Whataya Want From Me”.

Another solid show put together from Kiss 98.5. These shows give you a glimpse of some already established artists as well a look into the future of music. After witnessing the 2015 version of Kissmas Bash, the future is looking so bright one may have to wear shades.

Acts in Chronological Order (Click on Artist for link to their website)

Becky G

Jocelyn Alice