The New Standards

I've been aware of the New Standards for some time, but had not seen their live show. Rather spontaneously, my wife and I decided to get tickets for their show in Rochester. It was their last "holiday show" performance of the season, so I thought maybe they'd be tired and lackluster. Not so! From the first song through the encore, they were energetic, innovative, and humorous. I loved the staging as much as the music itself.

It was your typical holiday concert I've gone to for a few years now, warm fuzzies, talented performers, memorable songs, light - some slightly adult humor. But when it came to the most favored song, "Sunday Morning Coming Down", it was a flop, at least in the staging department for Friday Nights performance. Layers of fake snow normally come falling down covering the stage and performers during this nostalgic closing song. Quite a nice touch. But Friday night it was barely a misting. The new huge electronic stage light wreath was wowyzowie.

I look forward to the New Standards Holiday Show every year but it's incredible music, Christmas songs, playfulness, and variety. This year was a bit grinch-ish with the holiday songs and playfulness. I guess they didn't feel like getting into the holiday spirit. So, the music was still good but the show didn't seem to have any flow. Also missed the New Standards take on pop songs. With the exception of the cover of U2's Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking for, the other songs were pretty straightforward covers, indistinguishable from the originals. I hope they decide to bring Christmas back next year.

2 o'clock matinee show was billed as family friendly, so parents, and grandparents such as myself, braved a blizzard to bring their families to this event. Music was good, great to see and hear a variety of musical talent, but the sleazy bar banter between songs was offensive and eventually drove the families back out of the front doors of the theater. These amateurs forgot their audience. This show featured a so-called storyteller who proceeded to read from a crumpled piece of paper..a whining diatribe about his infantile need for an adult Santa because Christmas sucks..Haha....Wink wink ..Any kiddos left in the theater after that one? Not many, but I heard the guy on the piano dare parents to stay after this next crass tune.... after all, anyone who knows them should know better than to bring their families right? Leave the beer bottles backstage guys, and sober up for the show. You were surrounded by great talent and you blew it.

TNS were hot when the snow was coming down. Their Holiday Show was filled with surprises and special guests. Chan, John and Steve were in great form. I have to admit that I was a little concerned when they walked out in Cowboy garb for a holiday show but it was all good. The very cool thing was that they showcased their suporting musicians and friends in many songs. I'd highly recommend a New Standards Holiday show to everyone and we can't wait for next years show. Hopefully, we'll be able to see them at the Dakota in Minneapolis sometime soon!

Great show. Lots of guests from the twin cities musical community, but the band The New Standards themselves are more than worth the price of admission. Highly Recommended!

What a fun event....I think we've found a new Christmas tradition. It was creative, musically fabulous, highly energenic and thoroughly entertaining. There were times I thought I was in a friends living room madly singing show tunes, except for the fact mosts of my friends are tone deaf. Definitely making this show a Must See in my book, though I'd only get tickets for main floor seating in the future.

Live an hour away to the south. Couldn't make the show, snowstorm too heavy, tried to drive to the city but needed to turn back. Did all I could to get there. This is the first Holiday show we have missed by the New Standards. Can Ticketmaster refund my $$?

This show was fun for the whole family. The kids liked the standard holiday fare and the kidding around with Santa and his surly elf. Mom like the newer songs like "Toxic" and an Outkasts cover. Dad liked the older songs.

This show is a great way to rock in the holiday season. It is our 4th time coming and each time there has been some of their own songs, some holiday songs and some surprises. We love the way local musicians and dancers are incorporated into the show. Love the show! We think Steve is great too.

What a great group, and the show was geared for both child and adult alike. The group was able to blend their stylings with Christmas, what's not to like! Really enjoyed myself and the hour just flew by. I will definately go again next year, and hopefully get a chance to see them in their element at the Dakota. THANK YOU FOR A VERY ENJOYABLE SHOW ;o)

I hosted a group of relatives and friends as the annual get together with people from 21 years to 68, and everyone liked it. We enjoyed the quirky and whimsical touches: the trapeze, the DANCING (GREAT!) and Batucada do Norte (drummers) all wonderful. I would have appreciated a list of songs, there wasn't one in the program.

This show was great! There was quite a variety of musical guests which joined the New Standards for this holiday show. They also played some of their regular non-holiday numbers, including an old Suburbs' tune.

The was thoroughly entertaining from start to finish! Attending this show will become a yearly tradition for my entire family.

This was my first time seeing The New Standards Holiday Show. It was fantastic! So thoughtfully pulled together - it captivated me from the minute the boys walked on stage. Each new song delighted with its composition and the special guests who added to the magical mix. The right way to kick off the season! A must for me from now on.

Loved the variety of the show and that they always kept you guessing what the next act was going to be. The musicians, singers, dancer and special effects were fabulous! Makes me appreciate how much talent there is right here.

I had been hearing for a couple of years that the New Standards' holiday show was a 'not to be missed' event - this was my first time and I'll be back again. The only thing that kept it from 5 stars was that I was not crazy about the spoken word pieces from K. Lanpher and Matt Wilson's rendition of 'Snowbird'. (and I normally really like Matt Wilson, I think it was just a goofy/off choice of material) Chris Koza was outstanding, the drum corps for 'Little Drummer Boy' were great, it was a treat to see Max Ray from my old faves the Wallets in the saxophone section. I'll be back.

I am a huge fan of the New Standards, so it's sad to write that their annual holiday show at the Fitzgerald Theater was only so-so, at least on Friday, Dec 3, when I attended. This is the first year that the event was expanded from 1 night (as it has been in years past) to 2 nights plus a Sunday family matinee. I think the effect of this programming change was to dilute the impact of any one show (or at least the Friday show). There was less variety in terms of guest performers, although all guest performers were wonderful. It just seemed that less was less. I must add that I am not a fan of Katherine Lampher's contributions to the show. The tone of her readings were maudlin which deflated their potential humor. And they really didn't ring true. If you have not attended a previous New Standards Holiday show, you might be delighted with the experience. Since I have the memory of two previous stellar shows, I found this most recent one lacking by comparison.

It was like being in the audience at the Lawrence Welk show. Good music for people who don't like music. Lame. Cloying. Let's call it uninspired.

These guys really put on a show. Lots of different guests, great musicianship and comraderie evident on stage. The audience was treated ike family and made to feel included. No pretentiousness, just a great night.

Great evening. It was like a party in the lobby when we got there. Everyone in great spirits. The boys put on a very entertaining show, with a great cast of supporting singers, dancers and musicians. A real credit to Chan and John for pulling all the Twin Cities connections. Steve is the silent magician - a real treat to see and hear. Only complaint is minor, and that is that the logistics and bathrooms in the Fitz are terrible. I know it's on the historic register, and once we were in our seats it was fine, but getting to our seats and the ONE bathroom was frustrating.

This is my third time seeing the christmas special with TNS and every year it just gets better and better. I think this kind of display of music at it's purist level is not seen that often. The highlight of the evening was with Dan Wilson and Gary Louris singing together. That was completely amazing. As always though the main band provides such a solid backdrop for the guests and their level of musicianship is unparalleled. If you have not seen this show then it is a must go for you next year!

This show was about the joy of music (and poetry and dance). I love these guys, and we brought our 22 yr old daughter, who said their rendition of 'Toxic' was brilliant; from then on, they had her total attention. Dan, Gary, Prudence, Jeremy and the others, were awe- inspiring. I love Minnesota!

Absolutely fabulous! Put me in the holiday spirit right away!!! I will plan on making this event a yearly tradition for sure!!! Adored all the guests as well!! I loved the mix of Holiday and non Holiday songs as this offers something for everyone!

The New Standards performed at their usual best and provided an unforgettable line-up of who's who in local musical talent, a good bit of humor and a heart-warming show.

Have wanted to get to this holiday event for years, and finally did so with my wife and another couple, who only knew that I was expecting great things. I think they were a little offput at the unconventional song selections, which I can understand. But I loved the thought behind those selections -- the lyrics were really on-point for a season that too often recycles the same-old same-old. State was a great venue. Sheer range of people and performances was outstanding. I respect the risk-taking involved ... and I'll try to talk my companions into attending again next year. Thanks for an entertaining evening.

Show was great fun. Performances were all top notch. Took my grandson and he enjoyed it.

It was an amazing show as usual. It is one of my favorite holiday traditions!

This is a gathering of musicians playing non-mainstream music. I knew only 2 songs. If you are a Suburbs fan, you will like this show but don t expect any Christmas music. None. I m not familiar with Suburbs music. I came expecting holiday music. Disappointed.

While the music and woven in humor was really good, disappointed at the lack of holiday music. There was the initial song and dancing Christmas trees in the end but it appeared the show featured music from the albums of those in the show. Therefore a bit disappointing from a holiday perspective

Such a great way to get into the holiday spirit! Amazing talent, great guests and funny banter...what more can you ask for in a show. Can t wait til next year!

Chan, John & Steve are amazing musicians, witty and comedic. They know how to showcase their music and yet share the stage with some of the best vocal talent around. This is a must see and every year they sell our three 3 shows. Creative, beautiful and fun! Perfect way to start out your holiday season!

always an easy and fun show...opening tree especially fun

It says Holiday in the title and I guess it s during the Holiday season so....that makes it a holiday show?? We were prepared for the racy talk(other reviews make a big deal out of that) but we were not prepared for the open mic talent show we were subjected to(a couple talents were very good while a few were sub-par). It s a Holiday show and NO Christmas or Holiday music except one, sort-of??? It would make a good News Year s or any other time of year show but don t go to hear Holiday music. It appeared as if they were trying to be anti-Holiday in what they said and sang. Again, it would be ok for any other time of year but take Holiday out of your title & why? WHY? will the radio station recording that night re-play it Christmas Day??? There is NOTHING Christmassy about this show!!

A bit less "holiday" than years past. I've always appreciated how they could keep in the holiday theme without doing a traditional holiday show. This was more just a show.

First, the music and the sets were wonderful. However, they unneccesarily added their political views into the event which ruined the evening for myself and the nine others who attended with me. I can only assume they must have thought that only Clinton democrats bought tickets to the show--how else can I justify the attacks on the president-elect? Certainly, they wouldn't intentionally insult ticket paying concert goers would they? If you don't want a certain segment of the population to attend future events; have the courtesy to tell me in the advertising for the event. Don't take my money and then tell me you do not respect me or my point of view.

Great show, a Christmas extravaganza. Very entertaining

Contrary to the recommendation on MPR and their own website, it is not family friendly. I thought it would be more of a holiday show but they only played a few Christmas songs even though their website sample video was God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. In fact, the dancing Devils portrayed an anti-Christmas theme. The chatter between songs was not clever.

This was my third New Standards Xmas Show--and each year it's a treat! We need their sass and class to counterbalance all the schlock that passes for holiday entertainment. Get your tix as soon as the shows are announced; good seats go as quickly as a desert snowman.

Always great fun and funk from this trio and their fellow music makers. Continue to introduce the uninitiated to this event, the posse is growing.

Our third straight year attending the New Standards Holiday Show. This year's edition was the least entertaining by far. The Friday show lacked the energy and entertainment value of the previous two years. You know the show is a bit flat when one of the biggest applause lines was when someone mentioned Har Mar Superstar, which made the audience think he was coming on stage. Alas, Har Mar was not in the building, and we won't be either next year.

As always, The New Standards were entertaining and brought a ton of friends to help out.

This was my first year going to The New Standards Holiday Show and I would absolutely go again! I went with my mother and my 6-year-old son and all three generations enjoyed it equally. I wish there had been some announcement to turn off your electronics. I watched a woman in front of me play "Wheel of Fortune" on her phone throughout the ENTIRE show....

This is always the greatest holiday show in town, and this year was no exception. The variety, sound, and pure childish fun make this a show I look forward to all year.

Great show as always. Our fourth year in a row and we'll be back again next year.

I absolutely LOVED the New Standards Holiday Show! A must see every year! Great entertainment!

One of my favorite holiday traditions. It never fails to disappoint. Another fantastic performance.

The New Standards nailed it as usual. Their casual mix of fan favorites and great humor kept me smiling all night. Love our local celebs!

Good show it didn't know much about it when I bought the tickets just was interested in the names of the headliners .Iit surpassed my expectations.

Excellent holiday show by The New Standards - - loved it, can't rave enough about it, and would definitely go again!! Great variety - wasn't just Christmas songs, but a mix of tunes "related" to the holiday season - - superb musicians / singers!! And wonderful to hear some of the area musician guests as well! Hoping Rochester is on their tour schedule again for 2016 and beyond!!

I felt like When I was a kid and we all said to our neighborhood friends "let's do a show!". THe show was entertaining, irreverent, we loved it! The New Standards choose impeccable musicians to join their considerable talents, totally fun! Wish the site lines in the State Theatre were better, but you can't have it all.

I have been to three other New Standards Christmas shows, and enjoyed every one. This year the emphasis was on - What? Some weird pot skit is really all that was memorable. I'm sorry if the guys are going through some sort of mid-life crisis, and it shows. If they really don't want to do the show anymore, they shouldn't sell tickets.

These guys are the best, year round, but they raise the bar when the holidays roll around. I hope to make this show a tradition in my home, and look forward to bringing more friend's and family next year.

Fun group, fun event, new holiday tradition....just got a note that my text is too short...so much for minimalism and getting to the point.

Compared to the many previous times I've attended the Holiday show, this event was poorly structured. It seemed chaotic and unorganized, without the smart transitions that generally characterize these things. It basically banked on you having seen the show before and "getting it".

Poor guest selection, where ws Gary Louris, Haley Bonner, Jeremy Messersmith? Horrible language by some of the guests, especially for a Holiday show! And with children in the audience. Won't be back !

Never cease to amaze! Those guys glow of incredible talent. John Munson is my favorite host, not to mention he rocks. All three guys are a blast. Love the guest theme, surprise after surprise.

Year after year a great show. You never know what you will be seeing other than a night of great local entertainment.

This show is full of energy; however, the seating is cramped and the flashing light show is blinding in the balcony area. We expected more traditional Christmas music. The excerpt performed by MN Orchestra musicians was a welcome break from the blaring ear piercing noise of much of the show. Furthermore, we found the vulgarity to be offensive, and the repartee to fall flat. We believe such a talented ensemble can do better.

It was a wonderful evening with a wide variety of music and artists. It was a great way to bring on the holiday season.

So entertaining. Lively, fun and energetic. What a great way to start the holiday season. These guys are awesome.

In their zeal to touch on every musical genre and age group the trio has forgotten why fans come to this event. If you look at the 50 somethings in the crowd they are not looking for a token Rap song or French Vaudeville number, most would like to relive their MN musical roots with a dash of holiday cheer. Not one Burbs song, one Trip song, Matt sang an unknown number? It might not be cool but the holidays are a nostalgic time, take us back to the 80's give us what we want. Love is the Law, Toolmaster and some holiday cheer.

Great music, great laughs and a wonderful venue - we'll make it an annual treat for us.

If I want a gab, love fest, it will be with those I love. I go to music events for entertainment and that is why I have gone to this show for 6 years in a row. I thought last year's show was perhaps an anomaly and that this year's show would be back to the New Standards excellence. WRONG! It appears they are resting on their laurels and just dial the show in. I will not be purchasing tickets for the first time in 7 years next year. Thanks for 5 years of joy in music and the xmas season.

I look forward to this every year, but this year's show didn't compare to previous shows. I don't know if I would go so far as to say they were phoning it in, but close to it. I can remember favorite moments from years ago (trapeze artist, Dessa reference to Carrie Underwood in Sound of Music, thought-provoking poetry . . .I could go on but that's the idea). I don't think there is anything I will remember 2 months from now about this year's show - I was never moved. With the exception of Jeremy Messersmith it seems like most of the repeat artists were better in previous years. Also disappointed that Matt Wilson wasn't there for "Snow Days". Last year I was wishing I had tickets for both nights . Was ready to hit the road this year.

We weren't quite sure what to expect, but were blown away by the fun, variety and talent. We enjoyed seeing the special guests that we're familiar with from listening to The Current. This was a spontaneous event for us to attend since we purchased our tickets the day before. Next year we'll buy them when they first go on sale.

Hopefully, this was not a 'new standard' for The New Standards. This show was not up to the high standards set at previous NS Holiday shows I have seen. There just didn't seem to be the spontaneity I saw/felt at previous NS shows. Several parts felt forced almost as if the show was getting too familiar for them. LOTS OF TALK-NOT ENOUGH MUSIC. Example: Explaining how the show was being recorded and then proceeding to drop several FBombs and GD's. Really? Even the FBombs felt forced. However, this did not detract from the outstanding musicianship displayed by the NS and their guests (Nellie McKay in particular). One last beef, having backlighting is an awful idea! Lights were shooting from the back of the stage straight into the audience (esp balcony) that at times made it impossible to see the performers. I love the boys but not every year can be a 10. Can't wait until next Dec.

Oh boy, where do I start? This show is not worth $60 a ticket in my opinion. I wish I had stayed home. If they want to keep this going, I'd suggest that they hire writers and a director, or fire the ones they have & hire John Moe or whatever group writes for Wits. The banter between John & Chan was painful to listen to. It would be much better if it didn't seem to be a show that was thrown together haphazardly in their spare time. It was extremely scattered & didn't feel "Holiday themed" to say the least. Don't get me wrong, there were two artists that performed this year that stood out above the rest: Chris Koza and Jeremy Messersmith were great. Steve Roehm (dude on the vibraphone) was impressive, too. The other guests were decent, but because the show lacked direction and flow, many of them just felt ushered on & off the stage quickly for no good reason. We left when the random disco dancing started... People in our city have more taste than this, we should demand better from our talented local artists.

Fast paced, fun. We had a great time. Some very talented people entertained us Friday!

First time event for the five of us and we all enjoyed it immensely! The surprise guests were wonderful and the music mix was a delight. Definitely hoping to make this an annual holiday event going forward!

Each year this seems to lose more of its cohesiveness. Fewer and fewer MN ties and amazing performances are replaced with fair video clips. It also went on for 2.5 hours.

We attended last year and such a great time we invited friends along with us. They loved it too.

The New Standards show Friday night was the most amazing, thrilling, unpredictable and enjoyable way to start holiday season! Chan, John and especially Steve provided a most memorable night - but thanks to everyone who played a part in making this such a great event!

I'm a huge fan of the New Standards and have seen two previous Christmas shows as well as lots of other shows. The Rochester show was good -- those boys are never bad -- but it really just wasn't as good as they usually are. I was a bit disappointed. I missed last year's Holiday show but the two before we exceptional.

Seriously worth every penny. I would have paid triple what I paid if I had known how amazing it was going to be. So many special surprise guests and dancers. TNS holiday show made my year.

It is way too good for most people and I think we should all keep this our little secret. It is now a tradition of mine and I desperately need the holiday cheer this time of year.

Awesome show, lineup of performers and song selection. Amazing night.

LOVED the show this year - my 2nd time. The entrance and visuals throughout the show were fab. The OutKast skit with dancing men was HILARIOUS! And I almost felt like I was in my 20's again when Matt Wilson sang his solo (almost cried-thanks Matt!). Dan Wilson's solo was also a real treat and his voice was spot on and, of course, was completely thrilled and honored to have experienced the 1st reunion of Trip Shakespeare in 20 years. Other solos of note by visiting artists: Silent Night, the River; can't remember the names & song titles of all the other songs that were fabulous but everyone was just stellar - can you tell I'm a fan (groupie) ;-) This will definitely be a yearly holiday tradition. Thanks again guys - you always rock, croon, surprise and delight and make me feel young again - or at least ok with getting older!

What a great show. The fellas never stop entertaining. From the music, to the lights, the dancers, and a Poet (the poet was very cool)!!! the talent level on that stage is HUGE. This show is for sure a must see Holiday treasure. I was lucky enough to bump into Chan (piano and vocals and funny) on the way out and said to him, "Please, don't ever stop playing!"

The New standards were great as usual and the talent the assembled to join them was remarkable.

I would have given this show 5 stars without the trip Shakespeare reunion, but with it.... Can I give 10 stars?

This was the best New Standards Holiday Show!! The Trip Shakespeare reunion was over the top!

I was very disappointed I missed the concert / performance due to the weather. With near blizzard conditions we decided to skip the drive from the Excelsior, MN area to down town St. Paul. I'd hoped the concert might have been rescheduled. I plan to see The New Standards some time soon. C'est la vie.