NYS Music 20​14

Category: Albany

  • Ed Kowalczyk sells out The Swyer Theater

    If you are a fan of 1990’s grunge, you know the band Live. Though songs like “I Alone” and “Heaven” debuted twenty or so years ago, they still get air time today. Not all fans of 1990s grunge or Live know the name Ed Kowalczyk though. Live’s former lead singer has taken a new direction (sort of) since splitting with the band, Live, in 2009.

    Kowalczyk’s direction is an active one; he is producing new stuff and still tours. Quite a bit. Despite his happy marriage and four kids, he is seemingly always on the road. He sold out The Egg’s Swyer Theater in Albany on March 21 and is heading overseas shortly.

    Ed Kowalczyk followed an opening performance by Anna Rose, originally of Dutchess County and promoting her album Behold a Pale Horse, she is all voice.  While her stage presence is still a bit awkward – she even explained that she’s been accused of laughing too loud –  Anna Rose’s powerful voice over heart-felt lyrics will lead her to greater things in the future.

    Kowalczyk, also known for pairing his powerful voice and lyrics, opened with “All Over You”. It seemed like everyone in the theater knew the words, leading me to believe that the sold out show was filled with Live fans. But as the show proceeded, and Kowalczyk shared his newer, more religious songs, it was clear that there was a strong Christian contingent in attendance as well. Kowalczyk’s three solo albums since 2010 focus on his re-awakening into the Christian faith, but listening even to his oldest material, you can sense the strong religious tide that runs through all his music.

    The Egg is a great venue because the layout allows fans to feel really close to the performer(s). This was my third time seeing Kowalczyk (once with Live ten or so years ago, then solo at Albany’s Alive at Five series in 2011), and this show did feel more intimate. Kowalczyk seemed totally at ease, and the closeness made it a lot easier to see the emotion that was written all over his face. He offered a very good sampling of 20 years worth of music, performing 18 songs including one surprise cover of The Rolling Stones “Gimme Shelter.”

    Last Time Kowalczyk was in Albany he confessed that he has a long history with New York’s Capital City since he once courted a girl who attended Siena College, who later became his wife. Now that he and his family have moved to the East Coast (Connecticut) from California, I suspect that we will see lots more of Kowalczyk.

    Setlist: All Over You, The Distance, The Great Beyond, Bottle of Anything, All That I Wanted, The Dolphin’s Cry, Angels on a Razor, Selling the Drama, Seven, Pain Lies on the Riverside, Face and Ghost, Heaven, I Alone

    Encore: Lakini’s Juice, Gimme Shelter, The Beauty of Gray, Overcome, Lightning Crashes

  • EXIT 97.7 WEXT Announces Fund Drive

    “Leave Regular Radio Behind” is their motto, they focus on local 518 artists, they dig through endless catalogs of forgotten songs, they are supported only by their listeners; they are Exit 97.7 WEXT and they command a unique on air musical experience rivaled by many, with a new Fund Drive coming up.

    Presented from March 21-28, WEXT-FM announces the Songwriter Showcase, an ideal platform respecting various musicians, navigating the sound waves to where songs begin.

    The Songwriter Showcase is a group of songs played on air from years past through current or new artists. The rotation of songwriters presented range from Neil Young to Josh Ritter. There will be songs that are political to songs that tug on the emotional heartstrings and everything in between. The Songwriter Showcase is only one example of programming 97.7 WEXT presents. Other special shows include countdown lists that no other radio tackles such as: the 500 greatest bands and albums of all time, as well as 977 greatest songs of all time. Other equally unique programming includes the 200 women who rock on International Women’s Day and an entire week is devoted to songs of freedom and protest.

    The EXIT 97.7 began July 7, 2007 making this year their lucky seventh anniversary. The station is not only proud of their commitment to music but also maintains a strong community based ideal sponsoring events such as Tulip Fest, Lark Fest and Art on Lark. Members of the community are also invited to partake in MY EXIT programming where the listener creates their own playlist and becomes the DJ for an hour. WEXT is a huge supporter of local talent, providing 518 artists with an outlet for their creativity with live in-studio performances. Local musicians are showcased throughout the day.

    Defying commercial radio, WEXT has a stronghold on local public broadcasting, setting their own policies and program decisions based on the desire and needs determined by open communication with the community. The community-owned and operated station relies heavily on financial support of its members, as there is no commercial advertising on air. During the Songwriter Showcase, listeners will have an opportunity to make a contribution during WEXT’s spring fund drive. In exchange members will receive a gift. Based on the contribution, each member will be able to choose from CD’s such as the re-mastered Uncle Tupelo’s No Depression, or concert tickets to upcoming shows. The sold out James Taylor show at Tanglewood is one package offer. Other available contribution packages include tickets to Shawn Colvin and Steve Earle at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers featuring Edie Breckell at The Palace Theatre or Jake Shimabukuro at The Egg.

    Exit 97.7 WEXT is still in its infancy yet the station has become a staple of the community and did so through grassroots efforts using the co-op paradigm as its model. Turn the dial to 97.7 FM and be the judge. Contributions can be made online at exit977.org or by calling toll free 1-800-272-6492.

  • Groovestick with The Jauntee & The Assortment of Crayons TONIGHT at Red Square

    Tonight in Albany, Red Square and Guthrie Bell Productions will host a trifecta of bands to make one helluva dance party. Albany’s own Groovestick and New Paltz natives The Assortment of Crayons will be joined by The Jauntee from Boston, MA. Each band overflows with an intense energy during their live performances that you will still be buzzing the next day. Do not miss these bands as they are on the rise and your best bet for a good time in Albany. Doors open at 8pm with a $10 cover charge and The Assortment of Crayons set to start at 9:30pm.

    groovestick at red square
    Groovestick at Red Square

    The Assortment of Crayons is a multi-genre band that isn’t afraid to color outside the lines as their unique arrangements are endlessly entertaining and surprising. With an eagerness to experiment, the Crayons pool together their musical influences to create a sound that has a little something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors but not strangers to Upstate New York, The Jauntee return to the Capital District to once again melt faces with their original improvisational jams. The four piece band has been gaining attention across the East Coast for their psychedelic, welcoming music often being compared to Phish, a comparison that should not be thrown around lightly but regardless, The Jauntee has a growing fan base in Albany that is eager to get the show on the road. Groovestick is one of Albany’s newest bands, a trio just under a year old with heavy organ melodies and a new age funk. Their fusion of progressive jazz with a touch of rock is brilliant as their rhythms are contagious and undeniable for all dancing feet.

  • Bobaflex with Tantric at Bogie’s

    Named after the iconic bounty hunter from the original Star Wars arch, Bobaflex and the music it plays is just as keenly adept to bad-assery.

    bobaflex tantric
    Bobaflex to play Bogies in Albany on Thursday, along with Tantric. The boys travel to Syracuse the following night. (Photo Credit: New Ocean Media)

    Those familiar with George Lucas’ mythology are also aware of the lack of respect bestowed upon the anti-hero, Boba Fett.  That lack of respect, is an unfortunate fate also familiar to the band. The introduction to their latest release, Charlatan’s Way, is a dramatization of an actual voice message the band received several years ago from an agent.

    “You know out West, they have a name for your kind: Working Class Trash. You don’t come from shit.  You ain’t never gonna be shit…  You think because cause you pissed in Gatorade bottles, lived off the Dollar Menu and played the dirt circuit, that it’s your time?  Heh. It’s over. It never began. An intelligent person would just give up!”

    Bassist Jerod Mankin said, the monologue is taken “pretty much at verbatim.”

    Mankin was not asked to reveal a name, as he said, it’s not worth dwelling on the negative. Today, married and still touring, he considers himself successful. “If you can say you are happy and personally satisfied, I consider that a success.”. 

    On Thursday, March 20th, this five-piece nu-metal band out of West Virginia travels well north of the Mason-Dixon line to share a playbill with Tantric at Bogie’s in Albany, and venture off to Syracuse to play Monirae’s the following night.

    The band has a reputation for relentlessly touring throughout a career that has spanned for the better part of two decades.  Hitting the road gets the needed face time with fans.  And, while on stage, they are one of the liveliest performers in music.

    They are currently on a promotional tour that has included more than 100 stops.  Charlatan’s Way, their sixth studio album, was released last September. The first single, “Bad Man,” charted at No. 33 on the Active Rock Radio charts in the United States and has since been followed by “I’m Glad Your Dead.”

     Bobaflex advertises as a Nu Metal band, akin to Korn and Limp Bizkit.  But, this release comes across as good ‘ol fashion rock, complete with an edgy bass, a generous supply of drums, and racy lyrics that Mankin nearly sounds apologetic. “It’s a little bit racy for what people care,” he said. “It didn’t come out purposely, it just came out that way.”  What immediately comes to mind is the track “School for Young Ladies,” providing the description of a young woman in traditional schoolgirl outfit, and the events that surround her.

     In its entirety, Charlatan’s Way is the kind of CD you throw in and don’t take out until the last few notes of “Rogue” are done playing. From beginning to end, Bobaflex announces what it is, and is unashamed about it. Machismo lyrics always have a place in Rock – it’s what I grew up on, listening to Van Halen, Motley Crue, and Warrant, and there will always be a place for it.  If that’s wrong than I don’t want to be right. 

  • Deer Tick Pack The Hollow to the Brim

    On the first Friday of March, Deer Tick played to a rabid sold out crowd at The Hollow in Albany. Opening the show was Toy Soldiers, a fantastic band hailing from Philadelphia, who mixed rock, blues and funk into a great sound. By the end of the set the crowd was in the palm of their hands as they jammed out the last song in extended solos for each member of the band. They will be back at The Hollow on May 28th and you should make sure you see them.

    20140307 - Deer Tick 9

    Taking the stage after a short break was Deer Tick, who was welcomed by one of the most enthusiastic crowds ever seen at The Hollow. From the moment they came on stage, people were jumping and dancing around in the small space that each person occupied. The band split the show up into thirds, with the first and third part being straight up in-your-face rock and roll, and the middle portion being a beautiful acoustic section. Deer Tick showed that they can master either one with ease. Hopefully it won’t be a long time before they come back to the area.

  • Skrillex Bringing The Mothership Tour to New York in June

    Skrillex is bringing “The Mothership Tour” to New York for three dates in June. The New York leg starts at The CMAC Peforming Arts Center in Canandaigua on June 2nd, and the next evening at  The Washington Avenue Armory in Albany.

    On June 7th, Skrillex will wrap up his New York leg at Governor’s Ball Music Festival in New York City. Performing at these shows alongside Skrillex will be DJ Snake, What So Not, and Milo and Otis.

    Skrillex’s shows are always a party with blaring lights, lots of dancing, and concert goers leaving with nothing but smiles on their faces. Tickets go on sale for Albany and Canandaigua on Friday March 14th at 10AM. Governor’s Ball Tickets are available now.

    Here is a behind the scenes look at what to expect from the tour.

    Skrillex 2014 tour

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  • The Gaslight Anthem and White Denim Teaming Up for One Night Only

    The Gaslight Anthem and special guests White Denim are coming to Upstate Concert Hall on June 19th for a great billing that is happening for one night only.

    The Gaslight Anthem and White Denim The Gaslight Anthem hails from New Jersey and have been critically acclaimed by many, once sharing the stage with New Jersey’s own Bruce Springsteen. The band boasts an impressive tour schedule with worldwide stops. Their music is heavily influenced by punk, rock, and Americana –  all coming together to give them a very unique sound.

    White Denim, based out of Austin, Texas, have been taking their psychedelic-blues rock all over the country in the past year. They have been gaining steam as of late and are looking at a big year to come, with upcoming appearances at SXSW, Bonnaroo and Firefly music festivals. Tonight you can check out White Denim when they perform live on Jimmy Kimmel Live, as they broadcast from the 28th annual SXSW festival in Austin, TX.

    This show is surely a great one for those in the Capitol Region! Tickets for The Gaslight Anthem and White Denim are on sale now.

  • Band of Horses Pack The Egg on their Acoustic Tour

    Band of Horses set free remarkable talent inside The Egg’s acoustic heaven on February 23, leaving a deep mark on the 900+ people inside the Hart Theatre. With only about half of the audience seated, the group’s long time friend, Sera Cahoone, warmed up the room with her soft, sultry, simple sound, along with the steel pedal guitar mastery of Jason Kardong. Sera’s casual stories about ten years of touring were happily received– especially the one of the rat eating her leftover dinner at a dumpy hotel, although  it is not the premise behind the song, “Shitty Hotel”; that tale followed.

    The few hundred fans still milling in the lobby during Cahoone’s performance made their way to their seats just in time to hear three powerful voices backed by a clean piano perform the dramatic ballad, “St. Augustine”. Though classified as Indie, Southern Rock or Alternative Country, seeing and hearing Band of Horses, you can sense the Seattle influence. There is a distinct grunge feel to the look and sound of these guys, but the Southern influence is heavy as well.

    The acoustic tour, promoting their recently released Acoustic at the Ryman album, is a short-lived experience with only 13 performances scheduled and Albany was the eighth stop. The stage setup at The Hart Theater included rugs, a floor lamp spouting a plain living room shade, and an old record player, creating a homey, comfortable experience meant to mimic what is supposed to be a laid-back, toned-down experience. That’s a tough act to achieve when using gigantic equipment such as a baby grand piano, a bass, and whole host of guitar varieties — not to mention the massive vocals.

    The relaxed scene was in direct opposition to the powerfully strong sound that was consistently offered. One thing is for sure — these guys know sound. Whether solo or collaborative, each piece was well balanced, offering the same commanding intensity with one voice as with all the instruments together. The music was very well written for acoustic performance, and the inclusion of the toned-down drums was brilliant.

    Their songs are deep, penetrating and sometimes heart-breaking. The high quality of the group’s talent, performed in a theater designed to perfectly move sound resulted in beautiful, potent and dramatic music. I went to this show to hear “Laredo,” became intrigued by “Ode to LRC” and was seriously moved by “No One’s Gonna Love You.” Crowd favorites included “Is There a Ghost” and “Funeral.”

    Just before wrapping up their set, the band’s founder and lead, Ben Bridwell, announced their “fake last song,” offering a refreshingly humorous perspective on the strangely accepted “encore” ritual that both musicians and fans accept, despite the insincerity of it. But it was worth the two minute wait. Just before the encore, the band members walked through the crowd to pass out little plastic egg-shaker sound-makers to the entire audience. (These instruments had the band’s name printed on them – a brilliant marketing strategy!) The crowd was encouraged to join in the performance – and wow – this was almost as good as having everyone know every word to the song and loudly sing it. Actually, maybe this was better. Again, a testament to this group’s sense of sound, this instrument could not possibly be offensive or off-key. It was soft enough to complement the band’s music, yet still offer crowd participation. So not only do the Band of Horses know sound; they also know how to draw people in!

  • Mister F Celebrates Year One at Red Square

    On March 1st, 2013, Albany was introduced to Mister F, a group comprised of members of Timbre Coup and Capital Zen, with an electronic-meets-progressive rock sound. One year later, after 97 shows at 48 venues across 16 states, Mister F celebrated their first anniversary with a vibrant and excited crowd at Red Square.

    With opener Formula 5 filling in for an ailing Aqueous (feel better Mike!), the Brothers Pickering, Matt and Ben, Scott Hannay and Andrew Chamberlaine played a two hour set, complete with a surprise cover of “This Must be the Place (Naive Melody)”, a rearranged “Vocoder”, where the double-time parts were half-time and the half-time parts were double-time, and an accelerating “Jump the Shark” to close the set. An occasion worth celebrating, Mister F has another big show on April 11th, the release party for their debut album The F Stands Four. 2014 is shaping up quite nicely for one of Albany’s hottest acts.

    Download the entire show from Archive.org

    Mister F at Red Square Setlist: Answer the Dawg, Deal Breaker, Treadmill, Everything You Say, Naive Melody, Vocoder^, Oasis > Eye Level, Get Used to it, Hedgehog, This one goes to 11 > Unisex Collider > This one goes to 11, Shit Catapult%, Jump the Shark.

    Encore: Oh my Dayum > On and On
    ^ inside-out
    % debut

  • Lucid Lights Up The Hollow

    Lucid swung by The Hollow on February 22nd and turned the venue into a dance floor. Openers Way Down, a local three-piece jazz rock band, started the show with a mix of covers and originals to the crowd’s delight. A fun take on Ween’s “Roses Are Free” had more of a Phish vibe to it than Ween, much to the crowd’s enjoyment. All three members are fantastic on their instruments, showing high skill levels on all of the songs, but vocals could use some improvement. Don’t let that stop you from seeing them though, as their musicianship is fantastic.

    20140222 - Lucid 9

    Lucid barely fit the whole band on the small stage of The Hollow and broke out the funk right away. Jaime Armstrong’s saxophone and Lowell Wurster’s percussion-work continuously pushed the band throughout the night. The songs came at a blazing pace, seamlessly never stopping. They introduced a new drummer in Chris English, and even though it was his first show, he did a fantastic job of keeping things interesting behind the kit.  They played late into the night with nothing but smiles on stage and throughout the crowd. Make sure to catch Lucid out on tour as they regularly play throughout Upstate New York.