NYS Music 20​14

Category: Saratoga Springs

  • Look Under Your Couch, You May Be Lucky to Find some Cosmic Dust Bunnies

    The streets of Saratoga Springs were jammed packed on Saturday, May 17th  night and there was little doubt that the Putnam Den would be receiving much of this overflow, especially considering the first beer was on the house, and two of the best progressive bands around, The Cosmic Dust Bunnies and the Squid Parade, were about to tear the place down. Yet somehow, the room was sparse, as fans of these bands looked around in befuddlement wondering if they were in the right place. They were, and regardless of how many people were there, the band did not mind one bit as they played some of the best sets seen at Putnam Den in quite some time!

    Squid Parade, formed at SUNY Oneonta, opened the evening with their own variety of jamtronica and a steady groove, setting the evening’s vibe. All the supporters of the bands knew they were in the right place: this was going to be a party! Guitarist Zac Westbrook had a very similar style to that of Chris Michetti, yet with his own soaring flow, showing his influences but also proving he is his own musician. The drums, played by Emmett Rozelle, and bass, played by Pete Piscitelli, played perfectly in sync with each other, leaving Westbrook to do his thing. Although many bands play to this formula, Squid Parade did it in a manner that exemplified practice and experimentation leading towards a new twist on what is becoming a tedious sound in a fantastic genre. The stand out track was a brand new song, among a set that showed extreme diversity, from speed metal, to classic rock, to electronica poppy choruses, yet never losing groove or the attention of the fans. This is a band that some may say are trying to find themselves, due to all the different sounds but they have already found themselves, in creating a new sound.

    Setlist: The Hammer, Out of Phase, Mutation Engine, Leave that Thing Alone,Never Odd Or Even, Frog Legs, S.S.R.A.S.B., Dualit

    New Haven, Connecticut natives The Cosmic Dust Bunnies then took the stage and hit the crowd with another type of a daring musical adventure. Their sound of new wavetronica seems like an anomaly in itself, but it wasn’t long before the crowd understood what this meant. With Chris Sellas spouting a synthesizer over the other instruments, it felt like 1984 all over again. Bassist Matt Beckett constructed the perfect bridge between Sellas and guitarist Matt Dempsey. A very fulfilling sound, giving both soloists time to slowly make their way to the spotlight. This concept is not used as precisely as the Dust Bunnies did it; they showed patience in that they were willing to solo at the right time, with no rush. This made the blissful compositions that much more significant. “Flood the Streets” was a very high point, starting out with a Talking Heads groove. It wasn’t until Sellas used the vocorder, that new wavetronica made complete sense. Erik Hyland’s drums were wailing away, as Demspey’s guitar screamed, and Sellas was just having a blast, along with everyone else.

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2folv1H9Hs&w=420&h=315]

    When the band played “Mission: Possible”, they threw in a bit of dub, although it wasn’t clear if the dub sound was going to take away from the sound that was already a staple that evening. This seemed a tad disheartening, as it appeared there was no room for the darkness that dub brings to the happy bouncy feeling that had already been established. As with everything else, however, CDB knew what they were doing and used just enough to make it interesting. This tactic was used for the next few numbers, with a little more of the electronica then the new wave, but there were no complaints, as everyone was thoroughly enjoying themselves. The group continued to show their uniqueness by playing“Down”, a poppy radio friendly song. Sung by Beckett with passion, this song seemed like it meant more than words to him, as he sang from the heart. This would be the perfect song to hear on the radio, with a little guitar and key solos thrown in bit, but it wasn’t the focus of the song: the vocals and lyrics were. The Cosmic Dust Bunnies have started a new style of genre blending. This doesn’t seem to be a flash in the pan. New wavetronica could be the sound of the future.

    Setlist: Gotcha>Moleculo>Gotcha, Emerald Zone, Flood The Streets, Mission: Possible, Cosmonauts, Down, Jay in My Life, Hipster Champagne

  • Pink Talking Fish Brings a Fantasy to Reality

    Fans whirled around the Putnam Den in bewilderment on Saturday night asking questions such as: Are there three bands playing tonight? What are they playing? What is this going to sound like? All these questions were asked in a jovial way as very few could fathom the idea of one band playing the music of Pink Floyd, The Talking Heads and Phish. Everyone was excited to see how this could be done, and they would not be disappointed; Pink Talking Fish delivered a spot on fantasy performance.

    The High Peaks Band, a three-piece ensemble out of Saratoga Springs, opened the evening bringing a high energy jammy sound that mixed in lyrics of an alt-country band. The lead vocals of Rick Nelson were complimented wonderfully by Michael Hoffman’s backing harmony. Drummer Jason Vasquez held the band together as they ran through their set. Although there were very few, if any, low points, the highlight of the set was the cover of a moe. classic “She Sends Me,” a rocking tune that not only got the crowd going, but also showed the bands diversity.  It was a great surprise during a great set.

    The stage was now set to answer everyone’s question: What is this Pink Talking Fish all about? Well, from the onset, they were about tearing it up. Opening with a spacey rendition of “2001,” the audience knew what this band was all about and that they meant business. With the funk vibe of Phish and backing sounds that echoed Pink Floyd, the tone was set for the whole evening.  “Life during Wartime” came out of this extended jam as the entire room danced along with the bouncy lyrics. From there, things slowed down a little as the band performed “Have a Cigar.” Keyboardist Rick Umlah took lead vocals on this, hitting all the notes perfectly, resonating Floyd, yet with his own spin to it. Up to this point, the songs were played very well, but it wasn’t until “Possum” that they really shined. Eric Gould, founding member and the only one consistently in the lineup, took over the vocals and guitarist Dave Brunyak, of the Phreaks, showed the crowd his stuff. The lengthy jam was filled with shredding only comparable to Trey Anastasio himself. Brunyak’s sound wasn’t the only thing that was reminiscent of Trey, as he made body movements and gyrations similar to those of the Phish guitarist, but with his own style. He wasn’t copying Trey, he was just simply being Dave, and the crowd ate it up as they fed off his energy and enthusiasm. This continued throughout the set up until the closer “Cross Eyed and Painless.” This was a perfect way to end the first set, a high energy song that left the fans wanting more.

    Some may have thought there was no way the first set could be matched, but those people could not have been more wrong. Opening with a raging “Run like Hell,” Zack Burwick’s drums hit hard and heavy which set the atmosphere for the whole room and the whole set. “Run like an Antelope” was as solid and tight as it has ever been played. It seemed as though there was nothing these guys couldn’t do. They were nailing everything they tried and then some, but just like every great band, they were not done outdoing themselves. “In the Flesh,” went into “Mikes Song,” which in and of itself was a treat. The real treat however is when they went back and forth between seven different songs before playing “Weekapaug Groove,” going into “Eclipse,” and ending the set where they started it with “Run like Hell!” This was simply amazing. For the encore the boys had some fun mashing up “Makisupa Policeman” with “Brain Damage,”  and closing the night out with“Cities” and “Tweezer Reprise.”

    Many bands go out and try to cover other bands, usually falling short. These guys not only successfully covered one band, they covered three! The energy was high from the beginning and it only intensified with each song. The magic of not knowing what was coming next and being pleasantly surprised when it dropped was pure brilliance, brilliance in which this band should continue to do for a long time.

    High Peaks Band Set List 4/19/2014

    Walk to the Bar, Within Reason, Doesn’t Matter, Rice Petunias, Not on TV, Superman Above, She Sends Me*, Fade to an Echo#

    *- moe. cover #- Lively up Yourself teases

    Pink Talking Fish Set List 4/19/2014

    Set 1: 2001*>Life During Wartime, Have a Cigar>Posum, Slippery People>Sand>Slippery People, Another Brick In the Wall>Psycho Killer> Another Brick In the Wall, You Enjoy Myself>On the Run>You Enjoy Myself**>Crosseyed and Painless

    Set 2: Run Like Hell***>Run Like An Antelope, Burning Down The House, In The Flesh>Mike’s Song> Pigs(3 Different Ones)>Houses In Motion>Tweezer>One Of These Days>Lenghtwise>One Of These Days>Once In A Lifetime>Weekapaug Groove>Eclipse>Run Like Hell

    Encore: Makisupa Policeman/Brain Damage >
    Cities>Tweezer Reprise

    *w/ multiple Pink Floyd teases in the intro
    **w/ Mother tease
    ***w/ Careful With That Axe Eugene tease
    ****Back and forth between Makisupa and Brain Damage. Brain Damage was reggae style during the verse and classic style during the chorus. “Woke up on 420. Went to Putnam Den. I get to try out my brand new Vapo Pen.”

  • Musical Force: Alan Evans Playonbrother and Turkuaz hit Putnam Den

    Putnam Den hosted two soulful bands, Alan Evans Playonbrother and Turkuaz, this past Thursday the 27th of March that rocked the roof off the venue. Both acts had new music to share with fans that eagerly filled up the dance floor.

    alan evansWith their most recent name change, Alan Evan’s Playonbrother started the night to prove that they are more than a jazz trio. Were they always this edgy? The new name was the boost the group needed to give them more of a dark rock sound. Guitarist Danny Mayer was relentless in his strong guitar riffs throughout the set, never slowing down as Beau Sasser on keys cranked out sharp notes for the familiar jazz like sound that fans have always loved. Alan Evan’s passionately beat his drums and cymbals with a new found fiery confidence, not his usual cool, calm and collected manner. One of the highlights of the night was their rendition of Cream’s “Sunshine of your Love” and subsequent jam, an out of control, hard hitting masterpiece. The trio recently released a new album, Woodstock Sessions, Vol 1. that is available online or at their shows on their current tour with Turkuaz.

    The well-oiled funk machine known as Turkuaz shook the crowd and Putnam Den with their explosive dance music. The 9-piece band from Brooklyn resembles a modern day Talking Heads but with more funk, some Motown flavor and a touch of techno. The band has harmonies coming from every direction and member, not to mention a great chemistry that makes each show fun and special. Their synchronized dance moves were contagious to the crowd and kept everyone pumped up throughout the night. Guitarist Dave Brandwein dances in the eye of the Turkuaz tornado, being a strumming, sturdy force. Geneva Williams and Sammi Garett showcased a wide range of vocals, both in unison and in the solo spotlight. Chris Brouwers was a treat to watch perform in that he can multi-task like a boss as he plays the trumpet and keys at the same time. They are set to release their newest album, Future 86,on April 1st with all pre-orders (digital or physical) receiving a code to download it the day it comes out, no joke. To quote one of their new songs, “The future is coming now” and it is Turkuaz. Be sure to see Turkuaz and Alan Evans Playonbrother at Rock n Roll Resort v4: The Dream Machine, and get your hands on their latest music.

    Setlist: Typa-Lika, Night Swimming, Coast, Rules, Murder Face, 20 Dollar, Chatte, Lookin’ Tough, Can You Handle It?, Tiptoe Thru Crypto, It’s Hard, Honky Tonk, Future, Bubba, Take me to the River, Monkey Fingers

  • Turkuaz and Alan Evans Playonbrother Celebrate Album Release at Putnum Den

    Turkuaz and Alan Evans’ Playonbrother (formerly known as the Alan Evans Trio) will each hold a CD release party at the Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs, Thursday, March 27 at 9 pm. The party is organized through Nectars and tickets are available to those 18-years old and older for $8 (and $12 the day of the show) through Ticketfly.com or at the Putnam Den. Turkuaz launches their latest with Zerbert  at the double-CD release party.  While Alan Evans Trio sets out to release their Woodstock Sessions in tandem.

    Alan Evans TrioAlan Evans recently announced that the group would drop “Trio” from their name, despite remaining a three-piece band.  Evans supplies the drums and vocals, Beau Sasser is still on organ and Danny Mayer is on guitar. Though they have now adopted Playonbrother as part of their moniker, Alan Evans Trio will still appear on their latest album.  Please don’t refer to them as a jazz trio.  In fact, don’t try to put your thumb on them at all.  They are three musicians, who happen to play for other bands, but don’t dare call this a side project either.  In fact, they would just rather you just tune in and enjoy.

    Influenced by the funky ’70s groove and R&B of Sly & The Family Stone, Rick James, Parliament and Bohannon, Turkuaz take their self-described “jittery, world-pop-power groove” to the streets.  They just recently finished supporting Future 86, and will continue on the road for this latest installment.  Sporting a line-up of nine musicians, Turkuaz throws everything from percussion to brass to guitars in a live performance that can invoke the ghosts of rockers past. Don’t miss them and Alan Evans Playonbrother and check out our coverage of their show at Drom in NYC on December 30th.

  • Jesus Christ! and the Hallucinogenic All Stars Bless Putnam Den

    Some of the biggest problems in modern music today include the needless repetition of every theme. Unfortunately, most people have “seen it all before,” and local music is especially notorious for this. For example, go to a metal show, and you’ll probably see the guitarist put his or her foot on the monitor. It’s old and tired. On the other hand, there are certain acts that try their own thing. Imagine that you’re a member of Jesus Christ! and the Hallucinogenic All Stars.

    You’ve smoked so much weed that you can’t see straight and you’ve drunk so much you can’t stand. But more importantly, your musical ideas are quite different than others and you’re unafraid to showcase them.

    Although the part about being ‘too high’ is an exaggeration, Jesus Christ! is very clearly unconcerned with what pop music is, how much money they’ll make, or whether they’ll have a career in music. They’re on stage for the fans and for their enjoyment of music.

    If you love the sounds of Clutch and Mastodon, you’ll probably also like Jesus Christ! They’re technically a three piece band, featuring guitar played by Jon Imbo, bass and vocals from Dustin Alexander, and drums from Ross Kelch, but this is where things get tricky. Anyone who goes to a show will notice a bearded man on the left side. His name is Jacob Pederson. He stands behind a partition, so he looks like he is probably a keyboard player, or a DJ, but his job is not one that you typically see on stage. He is literally a bartender, and the new people in the crowd had no idea how to react when he stepped away from the partition to hand the drummer, Ross, a mixed drink. He shakes, stirs, and produces right on the spot.

    This is just an example of Jesus Christ!’s non-conformities. Other than this, their bartender works on the light show and handles roadie and driving duties for the band, and by the power of his drink making would be arrested if they even attempted driving. The man acts as a hype man, and is not afraid of the possibility of anyone questioning why a non – musician would be on stage.

    But Jesus Christ! and the Hallucinogenic All Stars aren’t all about getting high. There is a lot more to their show than might be apparent. For instance, their sound, although similar to other bands, has its own groovy nuances. You’ll recognize Clutch and Mastodon, as well as Kyuss, in the mix, but their use of tasteful harmonies and rough vocals sung into one of those old time radio microphones have an awe-inducing effect.

    The band played some of their usuals at their March 19th Putnam Den show like “the Mountain,” and “Shipwrecked,” and covered a song as well, but besides the headlining Mobile Deathcamp, the band was a highlight of the night and did not disappoint. Their sound was a lot different from Dark Matter and Satan Place, who also played the same show. Their presence in the studio easily carries over to a live setting, where the band gets heavy enough to yell, casual enough to sway, and doesn’t mind jamming a bit.

    Anyone who comes to their shows in the future can expect one thing: the ability to relax after a long week at work, have a drink, and sway to the music. You don’t have to be high to have a good time, but you do have to believe in miracles, because in a musical sense, that’s exactly what Jesus Christ! will give you.

  • 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.

  • KISS and Def Leppard Rocking Across the Country This Summer

    KISS and Def Leppard announced a summer tour that will span 42 cities throughout the United States, this summer. The tour will be hitting Upstate, NY for two shows – August 5th at Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the second being on August 13th at Darien Lake Peforming Arts Center.

    KISS is entering their 40th year in the music industry and they’re looking to celebrate it the entire year, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Although KISS has had many lineup changes throughout the years, Def Leppard has had pretty much the same lineup since the early 80’s.

    This tour is also supporting the military with an exclusive presale and discounted tickets for those who have served the country. More information on that can be found at here. Tickets go on sale starting Friday March 21st.

    Kiss Def Leppard 2014 Tour

  • Metal Night declared on Saratoga Springs

    Metal Heads in Saratoga Springs will be delighted to hear about METAL NIGHT, Wednesday, March 19th at Putnam Den.

    Mobile Deathcamp, and their vicious guitars, will be headlining the show with local bands Satan Place, Dark Matter, and Jesus Christ and the Hallucinogenic All Stars.

    Ohio’s own Mobile Deathcamp has been blowing audiences away since 2008. Todd Evans, known as “Beefcake The Mighty “, formed the band after a six-year stint with metal’s biggest shock bands,  GWAR.  Bassist Boe Skadeland and drummer Chad Smith teamed up with Evans to form this musical terror packet.

    Deathcamp’s music has been described by critics as “not overly flashy” and devoid of “self-indulgent, ego-stroking pretense” and a sound that will “blow your mind” with aggressive growls and a rhythm section that induces action from the crowd.

    Satan Place describes their own music as heavy ‘groove’ metal. They have an even measurement of old school metal combined with newer elements currently arising in the metal genre.  As for their inspiration to play, Satan Place took to their Facebook to say,  “We play because we all enjoy creating music and just simply melting faces.”

    Jesus Christ and the Hallucinogenic All Stars are directly from Saratoga Springs.  The band, described as heavy and psychedelic, gained local notoriety in 2011 when they organized a flash mob on Caroline Street as they performed from the back of a truck.

    Doors open at 8 pm with performers starting at 9 pm. Tickets at the door for attendees 18 and older. Prices start at $7 for 21 and over and $12 for underage. Putnam Den is located at 63A Putnam Street.

  • Melvin Seals and JGB Bring Smiles to All

    The smell of patchouli oil filled the air as dreadlocked, middle-aged folks wore their patchwork pants while sipping on Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. The vibe was set for a grateful night, as Melvin Seals and JGB were set to play Putnam Den on Sunday, March 2nd.

    Opening the night from Hartford, Connecticut were the Balkun Brothers. Their unique style of powerful blues, fronted by lead guitarist Steve Balkun, mixed sounds of Joe Satriani and Jimi Hendrix, an ability shown by few guitarists today. The shredding that came from every song left the crowd wanting more, and more is what they got. Showing their diversity the band also delved into a few funky songs, further proving they weren’t a one trick pony. This was even more evident in their closing number, “Fire”, by the aforementioned Jimi Hendrix, leaving the crowd in good spirits and ready for Melvin Seals and JGB.

    When Melvin and crew took the stage, everyone, including the band, was more than ready to get things rolling. They opened with the Rolling Stones classic, “Lets Spend the Night Together.” Dave Herbert’s guitar emulated the sweet harp-like harmony of Jerry Garcia perfectly. Herbert’s high pitched, fast-paced playing was a new twist that brought his unique style to JGB. The backing vocals of Shirley Starks and Cheryl Rucker were in perfect harmony with Herbert throughout the night. This rang true on the Van Morrison classic “Crazy Love,” serving as a perfect addition to an already flawless song. At this point, it seemed as if the man of the hour, Melvin Seals, was holding back; that all changed on “Get Out My Life.” Seals took the first solo and he meant business. The whining from his organ sent the crowd into a frenzy, dancing harder than they had all night. Everyone was ecstatic, but no one more than Melvin, as he sat up on the stage smiling and laughing along with everyone. The key to the whole band was the patience and steadiness of bassist John-Paul McLean and drummer Pete Lavezzoli; these two always held the jams together even when the music seemed to be heading nowhere at times; this was pure brilliance. The rest of the night followed suit as the band went through JGB favorites, “Run for the Roses,” “Cats Found Under Stars,” and “Ain’t no Bread in the Breadbox,” all played note for note and as brilliant as the originals.

    This group has dedicated their careers to honing in the JGB sound and they do not disappoint. Although Jerry may be gone, his memory and music will live as long as Melvin Seals and JGB are playing shows like this!

  • Conspirator Warm up Putnam Den on a Cold Night

    The wind blew a brisk arctic breeze as fans of Conspirator stood outside waiting to see the band. Upon entering Putnam Den and looking over the sea of flat brimmed hats adorned with various pins, the stage was set for a memorable evening of livetronica played by some of the best in the business.

    Albany heroes, Digital Dharma took the stage to open the night. The keys of Eliot Kershner got the crowd hopping and wailing from the start, a glorious way to get the night going with a positive vibe. The beats went on and Aaron Zarabi’s drums combined with Steve Mink’s bass tightly held the groove together as Kershner and guitarist Brian McQuade kept a stunning harmony. This went on for quite some time and allowed the crowd to get loose and have a great time. Then they started to sing. This was just weird and misplaced. Losing the crowd as they looked around in bewilderment, as the goofy sound took away from the sweet groove that was in place. However, this would quickly be overshadowed when the next song, “Better Off Alone”, came raging in with wailing guitar and sweet sampling. The guys were back on track, perfectly setting the night up for Conspirator.

    Setlist: Aeronautics -> Shag Moonstruck -> Better Off Alone -> Mission Control

    After a short break, it was time for Conspirator to take the stage and the crowd was more than ready. The energy was pulsating through the room and the band definitely fed off of this. Coming at the crowd hard right off the bat with a tune “Saw Sir” featuring Aron Magner’s outstanding keys. The mix of Marc Brownstein’s bass and the drums of Torch made the groove completely unstoppable. This led into the fan favorite “Feed the Wolf”, a song featuring a catchy chorus driven by the keyboard that led to high fives and screaming. You could tell the guys enjoyed this one as smiles appeared across all of their faces. Conspirator has been leaning towards more of a jammy-sound as of late and this was most apparent when guitarist extraordinaire Chris Michetti tore up the next few songs. As the main soloist, Magner’s keys were out of this world throughout the entire evening. Torch had many high points as well, keeping all the feet in the audience moving.

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfiLg0EJW8s&w=560&h=315]

    There’s the obvious comparison to the Disco Biscuits that the band constantly draws, but if this show was any indicator, they have successfully taken on an entity all their own.

    Set 1: Saw Sir >Feed the Wolf>Brooklyn Bridge>Right Wrong>Special Kind

    Set 2: Park Ave >Up>Retrograde>Pow Wow>Hellsing

    Encore: Hammerdown

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzSjY02AS5k&w=560&h=315]