SOMERVILLE - JULY 26: Berklee College of Music, singer/songwriting duo Axel Gabi and Lauren Vice (Axel and Lolo) perform original songs at Crystal Ballroom in Davis Square, Somerville, Massachusetts 

SOMERVILLE - JULY 27: Lead singer James McDermott of Emo rock band Bay Faction stuns the crowd during Bay Faction's performance at NICE, a fest.

On Thursday, July 25, 2024, Bostonians and Massachusetts locals pulled up to the wildly free-spirited, inviting, and chillest summer event. Hosted by Berklee graduates Alex Pickert and Josh Coplon, these two clever guys have been turning Davis Square in Somerville, Massachusetts, into a live music function for four years! Starting in 2021, a wide variety of highly accomplished local artists flooded the stage during such a crucial time for individuals. When COVID-19 began in 2020, there was a need for social interaction. How could this even happen? Surprisingly, COVID didn't stop the show from going on. Instead, it got bigger and better, reminding people of all realms to step outside the sadness COVID brought, especially for creative minds. This year, I was lucky enough to volunteer to work at the festival that claimed the name Nice, a fest! 

Growing up loving music and being surrounded by the music scene, attending this fest was definitely something I was honored to cross off my bucket list. It all started when I walked into Vivant Vintage in Allston; I noticed an eye-catching poster that immediately grabbed my attention. When I began asking questions about the event, I knew I just had to get involved. So, I did what I do best...yap. I started asking questions to be a part of the staff, and I am happy I did. I yapped until I got involved. For three days, I was allowed to go to all the venues. These were The Rockwell, The Crystal Ballroom, and newly, as of 2024, the main stage right outside, in the center of Davis Square. The weather held up beautifully, ensuring that the artists and fans could enjoy the vibes. With special guests from all sorts of alternative, punk, and indie bands, including Vundabar, Palehound, Bay Faction, and many more incredible artists, the fans were immersed in a unique, diverse community filled with immaculate vibes and company, where everyone, regardless of their background, felt included and part of something special. 

That's not even half of it! With the inspiring and profound original artists and setup, It's no surprise that the show would be a massive hit and continue for 4 years. On top of the fantastic live music, the environment is surrounded by Boston's most artistic and creative eyes, including their most prized art pieces that attract numerous individuals, such as the outstanding custom print shop, Speakeasy. All around the square, pop-up markets filled the streets and sidewalks. If you love vintage wear, thrifting, paintings, food, and more, this event is just another branch of Nice right up your alley. As I mentioned before, Vivant Vintage, a local vintage store and thrift shop and also one of my favs, located in Allston/Brighton, Massachusetts, was also a part of this community. Setting up one of their tents, all types of remarkable pieces covered the racks and allowed individuals to peek at the items. Items ranged from purses from the 80s to Levi jeans that have been designed into jorts, a new fashion trend that the younger crowd recently started to adore and admire. 

Although everything was perfect in my eyes, the most memorable thing that filled me with awe was how genuine and kind the people I met along the way were. Now, there's no secret that most of the East Coast population can be wild, especially in Boston. But the amount of inspiring, caring, and talented individuals that crossed my path shook my soul in the best way. I met friends. Friends that shared dreams and goals while sharing laughs and smiles. We bonded over the silly song titles but, at the same time, shed a few tears about how amazing it is when people achieve their wishes. People of all ages showed up. Family members of artists, photographers, kids, and even grandparents. For a brief moment, it was beautiful to see how breathtaking it is when individuals come together. Music brings souls together and opens doors to friendships you never thought you'd make. Attend the fest! It was nice, and it's a place where new friendships are waiting to be made.

Never miss a shooting star...STAY INVOLVED! Follow @weareforeverstars on instagram!