As I entered Crossett Hall one February afternoon, I was greeted by the sweet sounds of Pearl Jam coming from the basement. My curiosity led me downstairs, where I encountered the future members of Cosmic Boot (Nick Mancusi’ 10, bass; Brett Miller ’09, drums; and James Roth ’09, vocals/guitar) enjoying an impromptu jam session. Despite their best efforts to insulate the noise by using college mattresses from student storage, I had to tell the guys to take their rehearsals elsewhere for the sake of the ever so studious Crossett crew. They took their act to the music rooms of James Hall where they would eventually be joined by Ben Cohen ’11 on lead guitar, to round out the lineup.

When asked how such a diverse group of players came together to form the band, Miller explained, “Roth was able to connect with Cohen whom we had all heard about, and from the first time we played together we just gelled.”

“It took us three weeks to come up with the name Cosmic Boot, but as soon as we heard it we loved it,” said Mancusi. “We want to bring back those songs you forgot you loved.”

The diverse foursome played their first public show in the crowded, always-grimy basement of Stone Hall this past Saturday night, opening with an enduring American classic, “Fortunate Son” by CCR. The debut proved to be a successful one for the Boot as 125 faithful chanted, fist-pumped and sang along to an impressive set-list including Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way” and the James Gang’s “Funk 49.”

Aside from enthusiasm and obvious sex appeal (lookin’ your way ’Cusi), this band has some real talent. Residents of Crossett South can attest to the fact that Roth’s vocals carry very well (even through the shower, neighbor). The rhythm section of Mancusi and Miller kept it clean and tight while displaying some impressive showmanship. Finally, Saturday night’s show introduced Amherst College students to the face-melting lead-guitar of freshman Ben Cohen. This kid can flat out play—shredding through numerous impressive solo efforts including Pearl Jam’s “Yellow Ledbetter” (made me cry), Guns n’ Roses’ “Sweet Child of Mine” and “Fire,” by Jimi Hendrix. The band showed significant poise for a first effort, with quality sound control and solid timing.

Amherst needs the Boot, as this year marks the departure via graduation of long-time rock staple marks The Elements of Style and the remaining members of Count Groovula. While hip-hop and techno dominate the Saturday night scene, there is something about a live band (made up of familiar faces) rocking their hearts out that feels oh-so-college. “The first show went better than we expected and we really want to do another one soon. Thanks to everyone for coming out and supporting us,” said Miller.

The show definitely stirred up a lot of excitement amongst those in attendance, “Everyone had a lot of fun tonight. There is something special about a live band, and those four guys did an awesome job. We want an encore soon,” said Bethany Belisle ’10 shortly after the show. “The energy tonight was amazing, it was great to see people enjoying themselves and singing along,” said Mancusi. The Cosmic Boot has certainly arrived. Keep on rockin’ in the free world, gentlemen.