Low Cut Connie performs in Wilkes-Barre, showcasing the music the city has been missing.

Low Cut Connie, a prominent rock and roll band hailing from Philadelphia, recently returned to its roots with a lively performance in King of Prussia. The band has made headlines in recent weeks due to a series of events that underscore their increasingly politicized presence in the music scene.

In August, a scheduled performance as part of the Rockin’ the River music series in Wilkes-Barre was abruptly canceled by Luzerne County Manager Romilda Crocamo, citing the need to keep the event “free of politics and propaganda.” The frontman, Adam Weiner, expressed his frustration on social media, indicating that the cancellation was tied to the band’s political stance. This incident followed the band’s earlier withdrawal from a Kennedy Center event, which was influenced by the changing administration’s control over the venue. The band’s release of “Livin’ in the U.S.A.,” a protest song addressing Immigration and Customs Enforcement deportations, further highlighted their commitment to social issues.

Following the cancellation, the band was replaced by an AC/DC cover group, which faced its own controversy when the lead singer’s criminal record became public. Thus, the concert at Concerts Under the Stars offered Weiner and his bandmates their first chance to engage with a local audience amid this backdrop.

The concert showcased the band’s signature rock and soul style, featuring an energetic performance that included a new song titled “It Can’t Be Wrong.” The group delivered memorable renditions of classics, including Ozzy Osbourne’s “Changes” and Sly and the Family Stone’s “Family Affair.” They even engaged in a collaborative effort with opening act Fantastic Cat, performing Bob Dylan’s “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere.”

Weiner’s stage persona struck a balance between lightheartedness and serious commentary. He addressed the cultural tensions surrounding the band, revealing instances of threatening messages he had received, underscoring the polarizing nature of the band’s political activism. During the performance, he emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusion, inviting concertgoers from various backgrounds to connect. The show saw the band members sharing a group hug, symbolizing unity against the backdrop of a divided cultural landscape.

In addition to their performance, Low Cut Connie launched Connie Classic, a new Kolsch beer brewed in collaboration with Our Town Brewery in Lancaster, which was presented as a nod to their fanbase. Looking ahead, the band has also announced a two-night engagement at the Ardmore Music Hall on December 30 and 31, further solidifying their commitment to their local roots while navigating the complexities of the current sociopolitical climate.

This convergence of music, activism, and community spirit has positioned Low Cut Connie as a noteworthy figure in the contemporary rock landscape, continuing to resonate with audiences both politically and musically.