Concert Review: Bumpin Uglies and Joey Harkum at The Met in Pawtucket, RI

Bumpin Uglies and Joey Harkum performed at The Met in Pawtucket, RI, on Saturday January 17, 2026. They were so exceptional that I spent many hours after the show listing the music swirl around in my head. The music, the vibe, the audience (sold out show), the socialization, the lighting on stage…everything was so perfect for a great night of music. The two groups performed in front of a group of dedicated fans who were there to listen to the incredible music.

The show started at 8:15 p.m. with Joey Harkum as the first opener. A touring singer- songwriter known for his blend of folk, rock, reggae, and hip-hop, with strong ties to the Boston area, Joe has played numerous shows including opening for acts like Joe Samba and supporting local bands.

He started in metal as a teen and achieved success with solo albums like Love and Labor, Storyboard, and The Art of Revenge. Joey Harkum, for his entire life, has been strumming a guitar and after a decade of touring as the lead singer and songwriter of Baltimore-based band Pasadena he started his own exceptional band.

As always, Joey was terrific. I have seen him play as a solo artist many times but this time at The Met he was performing with the entire band. Joey Mitchell (bass) Kavoosi (guitar, keys, vocals) and Jt Haset (drums). He is effectively a very talented artist. The band played different songs like Without You in My Mind, I’ll Be Gone, Hold On, Art of Revenge, Wont’ Be Long, etc.

At 9:45 p.m. The Bumpin Uglies, as the headliner, hit the stage. An American band from Annapolis, Maryland, the group described their music as a “melody-driven”, free spirited blend of ska, reggae, rock and punk with a strong focus on lyrics and crowd-pleasing grooves. Founded in 2008 by guitarist and vocalist Brandon Hardesty and percussionist Zach Pfefferkorn, the group was influenced by pioneering bands like Sublime, Bad Religion, Reel Big Fish, and Gold finger.

The current members are: Brandon Hardesty (lead vocals, guitar, and songwriter), T.J. Haslett (drums), Ethan Lee Lichtenberger (keyboard, trombone), Will Lopez (tenor saxophone, guitar), Brent Schraffenberger (bass, guitar, vocals).

When I walked into this show I did not know I would find a new favorite band in the Bumpin Uglies but their music and vibe were infectious. I could not have asked for a better night of music.