New London music fest begins rocking

New London – And I AM 2010 is underway.

With welcome pitch-perfect weather of the annual free independent music festival on the New London waterfront drew perhaps its largest early crowd in the concert's five-year history.

The Stonington band The Facelifters kicked off the show shortly before 1 p.m. with an energetic blast of funky punk.

"We're super excited to play here," singer Pat Boyle said. "It's good to have I AM Festival on your resume."

The festival also features 22 vendors selling food, crafts, records and t-shirts.

Laura Nadelberg of Brooklyn, N.Y., a 2008 Connecticut College graduate, was selling her custom stationary at the show for the second straight year.

"(Students) in New London really appreciate the I AM Festival," Nadelberg said. "It's a gateway to all things downtown has to offer."

Festival co-organizer Rich Martin reported that the early going has been snag-free and the show is running on time.

Headliners We Are Scientists, along with Mates of State, O' Death and Darlings will play the evening portion of the show.