Catskill Chill, the annual music festival in Hancock, NY, kicked off its series of weekly jam sessions last night. Taking place each Wendesday in August at New York City’s Sullivan Hall, the events feature a number of “Chill Family Artists,” in addition to weekly performances by host band FiKus.

Last night’s performance began with a solo set by Derek VanScoten (D.V.S*), who brought up a female drummer for part of his set. FiKus took the stage next, playing a set which opened with “Fanfare for the Common Man” > “Chariots of Fire” theme. Later in their set, the group welcomed Steve Molitz to join tin on “Jim Jones” into Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition,” the latter of which also featured an appearance by D.V.S.

Molitz and Ben Combe of Particle kicked off the headlining set with a 10 minute jam featuring DJ Logic. FiKus drummer Kito Bovenschulte and bassist Travis Paparoski then joined the mix, followed shortly after by DVS on guitar, FiKus’ Pete Kozak on percussion and Jon Schmarak on trombone, sax, and trumpet.

Next week’s Catskill Chill Wednesday features opening act ShizZ, FiKus, Molitz, and Kung Fu gutiarist Tim Palmieri.

The third annual Catskill Chill takes place September 7 – 9 in Hancock, NY.