Florida Cheer from The 502s
In a culture where most music is focused on examining the hardships and challenges of life, it’s refreshing to come across messaging that truly lifts spirits. In bluegrass, country, folk and other roots genres – where “hard times” and grief are essentially coded into the DNA of the music – unbridled feel-good vibes are more rare. For Maitland, Florida-based indie folk group The 502s, however, a mood boost would be a certain, expected outcome. For this group, Banjo and guitar are used not to relay stories of misfortune, but to share a true sense of unbridled joy.
“It was totally a result of the personalities and philosophies of the band,” explained Ed Isola, banjo player and lead vocalist for The 502s. “Early on we knew that we wanted to make music that was upbeat and fun to play at concerts, but hadn’t homed in on what we wanted to write about lyrically.”
He said as the band evolved over time, however, his natural point of view (“I tend to be an optimist!”) began to infuse the band’s music. In fact, on their website, the band self-describes in a creative way that invokes a promise of pure joy: “With breezy banjos, shout-along choruses, and an energy that bursts like a cannonball into a swimming pool, their music feels like sunshine you can dance to.”
Add to that cheery, pastel-colored visuals and attitudes that can best be described as Florida-centric, and the result is something that’s unique and memorable in the world of folk/roots.
“A lot of times people think beach and think tropical, but growing up in Florida, the ‘beach vibe’ to me is all about driving around in the summer, windows down, blasting music with friends and family,” Isola said. “So a lot of what I write is inspired by that feeling and experience, which I’ve had as long as I can remember…and even [have] today!”
The 502s have been dishing out feel-good since the group was founded, when Isola was still a college student.
“The band essentially started in my college dorm room,” he said. “I started playing banjo and writing music while at school and would come home in the summer and play at open mic nights with a few of my cousins. From there the band naturally evolved, and most of the current members are from Orlando.”
The current lineup includes Isola (banjo and vocals); Joe Capati (horns); Sean Froehlich (drums); Nick Melashenko (bass) and Graci Phillips (guitar).
While they are currently writing new music, they’ve also toured heavily throughout August, with some European shows in September in Ireland, Germany, and The Netherlands. More fall and winter dates are expected to be added over time, and those interested in catching a performance should check out the website at The502s.com.
According to Isola, a big intangible reward of being onstage comes from knowing The 502s are improving the mood of just about everyone who attends one of their gigs.
“It feels great to know what we are doing positively impacts people,” he said. “It gives a purpose to our music and professional lives, and a lot of excitement to continue doing this and continue helping people through our music.”
“The world can be a very easy place to feel isolated and alone in,” he added, “and having a way to connect to each other is so, so important!”
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