By Kate Bartlett
Mayday Buffalo is one of Western New York’s premier party bands, playing an eclectic mix of 90’s favorites. Formed in 2007, the band has become a local favorite, playing various stages in the area, and opening for nationally renowned acts. Mayday Buffalo hosts The World’s Largest 90’s Party in Rochester and Buffalo, and will be playing a free show in Ellicottville at EBC on Fall Fest Weekend on October 12.
Mick Wolcott has been into music ever since he discovered his grandfather’s guitar when he was a freshman in high school. “I was up in his attic and came across his guitar,” recalls Mick. “I started playing on it, just messing around, and my mom encouraged me to take lessons. I have been playing music ever since.”
Mick played in various bands throughout his school, most regularly the band Freon. About a year after the band broke up, Mick’s co-worker needed a band for his summer party. Mick contacted two of his bandmates and the trio formed the band Mayday just in time for the party, with just enough material for the two-hour set. They chose the name Mayday as a bit of an homage to Brad May’s famous overtime goal, but also because they thought the name sounded good and was easy to remember. Since then, Mayday has played hundreds of gigs in the area and has opened for national acts including Brand New, Rise Against and Framing Hanley while earning the title as “Buffalo’s Best Rock Band.”
The bands original lineup has changed over the years, but currently consists of Mick Wolcott, Loren Kelley on guitar, bassist Jay Crowe and drummer Joe Thomas. Over the years, Mayday played various genres of music, and discovered the crowd’s reaction to 90’s music. “We couldn’t help but notice that crowds loved when we played 90’s songs,” recalls Mick. “We decided to make 90’s music our primary focus, and the popularity of the band has increased ever since.”
Mick describes their concerts as a high-energy party atmosphere. The vibe is energetic and fun and the band dresses the part, complete with eye-catching 90’s outfits. “We have a lot of fun on stage,” says Mick. “When we get into the music, the crowd follows suit. The energy is contagious. The songs are upbeat and we love when the crowd sings along.”
In addition to playing various festivals, charity events, weddings, private parties and theatres, Mayday Buffalo hosts an annual World’s Largest 90’s party in Buffalo and Rochester. “This event is always a sell-out. It is our main event and we look forward to it every year.” Their next event will be this spring at the Towne Ballroom.
Born in the 80’s, Mike loves reliving the music of his child hood on stage. “90’s music is so nostalgic to me. It’s upbeat, fun, and there’s a wide variety to choose from.” While Mick has no particular favorite song, he enjoys dramatic mood changes during the show and surprising the crowd. “It’s fun watching everyone’s reaction when we play a Backstreet Boys upbeat sing-a-long song followed by hard rock song by Metallica or Rage Against the Machine. It makes for a great show and adds an element of surprise.”
This October will be Mayday Buffalo’s first time playing at Fall Fest, and the band is looking forward to the experience. “We’ve heard such great things about Ellicottville, and we can’t wait to experience Fall Fest, and play a great show.”
Mick’s favorite thing about performing is watching the crowd’s reaction, and helping them have a great time. “The best compliment I can receive is when someone tells me they had fun at our show. It’s amazing to see so many people enjoying ‘90s songs right along with us.”
For more information visit www.maydaybandbuffalo.com and follow on social media for updates on events. See Mayday live at Fall Fest at their free concert at Ellicottville Brewing Company on Monroe Street, Saturday, October 12th 8pm on the Big Stage.