Free at Noon Flashback: The Seratones bring some afternoon power to World Cafe Live

The Seratones | photo by Makena Duffy for WXPN

Southern rockers The Seratones re-introduced themselves to Philadelphia this afternoon, ahead of the release of their new album Power later this month. Energized by the three and a half cups of coffee frontwoman A.J. Haynes said she drank this morning, the Louisiana band opened with “Gotta Get to Know Ya,” the new album’s lead single which XPN listeners are already familiar with.

This dynamic introduction put the crowd instantly at ease and ready to dance. “I’ve never seen this many people hype at noon,” Haynes said in between songs. “Apparently I’ve been to the wrong places.” The singer and guitarist also took a moment to talk about the importance of events like Free at Noon in “fostering cultural literacy” in the community. With themes ranging from moving on from a relationship to overcoming everyday fears, The Seratones make music that anyone can connect to, and engages the audience with their warm and open performance style. “Y’all are now officially Seratones members,” Haynes said after having the crowd snap their fingers along to a song.

The band closed with Power‘s title track, a song about how everyone can contribute to society. “Democracy is not a spectator sport,” Haynes said. “That’s all I’m gonna say about that.” She continued her message in the song, singing, “We take two steps forward / They take one step backward / We take each step to lift us up higher / We take each step ’cause we have the power.” The band came back onstage to play a quick encore, and left us eagerly awaiting their return to Philly.

Power is out August 23. Revisit photos from today’s set below.