An incredible array of talent augmented original drummer Jody Stephens to truly channel the spirit of Big Star. Chris Stamey (The dB’s) and Jon Auer (The Posies) continue to form the core of the Big Star Quintet alongside Stephens. Two members of Wilco, Pat Sansone and John Stirratt, rounded out the fivesome at Woodstock’s Bearsville Theater.

Review by Ross Marvin / Photos by Nick Soto for NYS Music

Jody Stephens of Big Star (Quintet) at Bearsville Theater in Woodstock, N.Y. (September 6, 2025) – photo by Nick Soto for NYS Music

Jody Stephens came to the front of the stage to sing his departed bandmate’s song (Jody also came up front to sing “Way Out West” and “Thirteen”). Stephens recounted that he first met Andy when they were both only thirteen years old, and that when “India Song” was recorded he didn’t have any clavs so he just used his sticks alone as the recorded percussion instrument. It was cool to see him replicate that on the Bearsville Stage.

– Ross Marvin for NYS Music