Winter’s Chill, Music’s Thrill: Dazed’s First Show of the Year Delivers Psychedelic and Indie Funk

Ancient Spaceship, DD Island, and All Day Special brought the heat to a freezing Euclid Ave.

Words by Caroline Thaxton / Graphic by Michael Loya

On January 17th, 2025, the icy Syracuse winter was in full force, but that didn’t stop fans from bundling up and braving the bitter conditions. On the flip side was the electrifying musical experience of Dazed, featuring three bands that brought the heat: Ancient Spaceship, DD Island, and All Day Special. Walking down the venue’s stairs, you could sense a different kind of energy flowing - one that we had all been missing for the past few weeks.

Ancient Spaceship, a band known for their blend of psychedelic funk and rock, opened the night. From the moment they hit the stage, the room was immediately transported into a cosmic, groove-heavy world. Their opening track set the tone for what would be an electrifying set, with every beat vibrating the room, that captivated the audience from start to finish.

Ancient Spaceship’s unique sound, characterized by swirling guitar riffs and expansive psychedelic elements, had the crowd moving from the very first note. Songs like “Pretty Lady” and “Love on the Floor” showcased the band’s ability to blend funky rhythms with atmospheric textures, creating an irresistible groove.

But it wasn’t just the music that made Ancient Spaceship’s set so special. About halfway through their performance Patrick Santora, originally on guitar, and Stone Camillo, on the drums, switched places. The swap showcased Santora’s thunderous drumming and Camillo’s otherworldly guitar work, giving the set a fresh intensity. Their final moments were a mix of galactic exploration and funky rhythms, sending the crowd into a hypnotic trance before they made way for the next act.

Next up was DD Island, who brought a more chill, introspective vibe to the stage. The band’s mix of psychedelic funk and ethereal rock made their set feel like an immersive journey with a perfect blend of groove and melodic exploration.

Their set invited the audience to relax and lose themselves in the music. DD Island’s deep basslines and mellow percussion allowed the vocals to drift effortlessly through the room. The band’s ability to enclave the crowd had everyone lost in the beat and immersed in a flow as they nodded along. The band’s infectious sound had the crowd swaying with ease. Their ability to create an engaging energy was a testament to their mastery of psychedelic funk and smooth rock, providing the perfect transition before the night’s final act.

Closing out the show, All Day Special brought the energy back up again with their mix of indie and surf rock. Their sound was a perfect antidote to the winter cold outside—warm, upbeat, and full of life. Tracks like “At the Party!” and “Like it or Not” got the crowd moving with compelling melodies that had everyone dancing. The band’s sound created the perfect ambience for letting loose and having fun.

The room was full of energy, soaked up by people as they smiled and danced, taking in everything that All Day Special so effortlessly delivered. It felt like a moment of pure joy, with the band’s music serving as a reminder that no matter how cold the world may get, there’s always room for good times and good tunes.

As the show came to a close, it was clear that the night had been something special. Ancient Spaceship, DD Island, and All Day Special had each brought their own unique flavor of music. For those who braved the winter weather for this incredible night, it was a reminder of the power of music to bring warmth no matter the temperature outside. Dazed kicked off the 2025 DIY Syracuse music scene with a bang, and if this show was any indication, the rest of the year promises to be filled with unforgettable moments of live music, community, and sonic bliss.