Moondance Amphitheater — Attraction in Lexington

Metro Gnomes Swing into a Night of Sheer Exuberance! The Metro Gnomes big band descended upon the Moondance Amphitheatre last night, delivering a performance that was nothing short of a masterclass in pure, unadulterated jazz joy. For anyone with an appreciation for the power and nuance of a great big band, this was an evening to remember. The Gnomes didn't just play notes; they painted vivid musical landscapes, each chart a new exploration. Among a setlist packed with gems, several iconic pieces stood out, showcasing the band's remarkable range and the individual talents within their ranks. Their rendition of Ernesto Lecuona's "Malagueña" was a showstopper. From the instantly recognizable, dramatic opening chords, the Metro Gnomes built an edifice of sound that was both fiery and intricate. The brass section soared with controlled power, while the saxophones wove a rich tapestry of harmony and melody. The percussion was a masterclass in itself, driving the complex rhythms with an infectious energy that had toes tapping and heads nodding throughout the amphitheatre. The dynamic shifts, from hushed, smoldering passages to explosive, full-band crescendos, were handled with skill, truly capturing the passionate heart of this Latin classic. Then came the timeless "Love for Sale." The Gnomes approached this Cole Porter standard with a sophisticated swagger. The arrangement was engaging, allowing for some truly inspired solos that dripped with bluesy elegance. One could almost hear the collective sigh of appreciation from the audience as the final, lush chords faded. Adding a shot of soulful rock energy to the evening was their take on Laura Nyro's "Eli's Coming," famously covered by Three Dog Night. This was a fantastic choice, allowing the Metro Gnomes to unleash a different facet of their collective personality. The arrangement crackled with anticipation, building layer upon layer of sound. The iconic piano riff was present, of course, but the horns brought a new dimension of power and urgency to the tune. The build-up to the chorus was a masterstroke of ensemble playing, culminating in a joyous declaration that had the audience visibly energized. Throughout the concert, the Metro Gnomes displayed not only musicianship and tight ensemble work but also a genuine love for the music they were creating. The camaraderie on stage was palpable, translating into a performance that felt both polished and spontaneous. If you have the chance to experience the Metro Gnomes live, do not hesitate. They are a vibrant reminder of the enduring excitement of big band jazz, capable of tackling beloved classics with reverence and injecting them with a fresh,...

Moondance Amphitheater is such a gem in Lexington! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy live music outdoors. We brought our chairs and the kids, and it turned into a fun and relaxing evening for the whole family. The sound quality was great, and there was plenty of space to spread out and get comfortable. Parking was easy and close by, which made getting in and out super convenient. The atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, but also a great place to meet up with friends or have a date night. We had a wonderful experience and will definitely be coming back for...

I've only been here for performances a couple times, but I like it. It seats some 2000 people in normal times which has always been more than enough. The stage looks kinda small, but it's usually used for band performance, so that doesn't matter too much. The music carries surprisingly well for an outdoor venue in (effectively) an open field. The whole place is kept clean, and is in a nice neighborhood. It's kinda close to a highway, but you can't...