RECAP: Start Making Sense @ Cohoes Music Hall, 12/29/2024

Written by Staff on December 30, 2024

Words and Photography by Stephanie J Bartik.

On Sunday, December 29, the historic Cohoes Music Hall in became a portal to the 1980s, as Start Making Sense transported a sold-out crowd into the heart of a Talking Heads live experience. This Pennsylvania-based tribute band doesn’t just play Talking Heads’ music—they inhabit it, blending technical precision with raw energy to create a performance that feels both nostalgic and exhilaratingly fresh.

From the moment they took the stage, it was clear the evening would be a special one. Fans who had traveled from across the region—and beyond—filled the hall, underscoring the band’s devoted following. It’s not every tribute act that inspires this level of dedication, but Start Making Sense is no ordinary cover band. With a seven-piece lineup, including Jon Braun on vocals and guitar, Brian Davis on guitar, Colin Miller on percussion, Alex Ayala on keyboards, Jenny Founds on bass, Jesse Braun on drums, and Kate Desisto on vocals, the band channels Talking Heads’ eclectic sound and dynamic stage presence with a meticulousness that borders on reverence.

Opening with “Psycho Killer,” the band set the tone for the evening, their tight musicianship and attention to detail immediately apparent. Jon Braun’s vocals mirrored David Byrne’s unmistakable cadence and quirky intensity, while the rhythm section—anchored by Jesse Braun’s driving drums and Jenny Founds’ groovy bass lines—kept the audience moving from the first note to the last.

The setlist spanned Talking Heads’ illustrious catalog, including fan favorites like “Burning Down the House,” “Once in a Lifetime,” and “Life During Wartime.” Each track was performed with an infectious energy that had the audience dancing in the aisles, many dressed in oversized suits and retro gear to pay homage to the band’s iconic aesthetic. The group also showcased their visual storytelling, with lighting and staging reminiscent of Talking Heads’ legendary Stop Making Sense concert film, adding an immersive layer to the performance.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the evening was the palpable sense of community in the room. Fans from out of state—some who had followed the band on tour—mingled with locals, united by their shared love for Talking Heads. This is a testament not only to the enduring appeal of Talking Heads’ music but also to Start Making Sense’s ability to foster that same universal connection through their performances.

The band’s dedication to their craft extends beyond their live shows. In addition to recreating Talking Heads’ music with astonishing fidelity, they have embarked on specialty projects, such as horn tours with original arrangements of the band’s songs and international trips with fans. Their upcoming Australian tour is yet another indication of their growing influence and ambition.

As the final notes of “This Must Be the Place” echoed through the Music Hall, the crowd erupted into applause, their faces beaming with joy and nostalgia. For two hours, Start Making Sense didn’t just play Talking Heads—they became them, capturing the spirit of a band that has inspired generations.

If David Byrne is a genius, then Start Making Sense is nothing short of a tribute to genius. Don’t miss the chance to catch them live—they’re not just a cover band; they’re an experience.