The key to Darlingside is in their ability to calm without boring. Not to suggest that all their music is slow or quiet, which by many accounts, it isn’t. They have similar dynamics of many of the current “folk-rock” collectives that are over-saturating music these days, but they don’t fall into the traps of these acts. The band’s sweeping sound features phenomenal vocals, crisp instruments and surprising musical turns. There seems to be a bunch of “collectives” in the New England area, but this one is easily one of the best. They will be performing at the 2nd Stage on Friday of the KahBang Festival 2012. (Photo by Greg Nesbitt) - Adam G.