Category: Central NY

The New Mastersounds Kick Off Tour in Buffalo Next Week

Eddie Roberts of The New Mastersounds

Over the years, music has become more accessible than it’s ever been. With internet radio sites, 160GB iPods, satellite radio, YouTube, and every other outlet, the amount of choices out there are near limitless. Listening to music in your headphones and in the car are one thing though, while actually experiencing the collective force of a live show is far different. Even with how accessible music is, shows are still something that unfortunately can’t be everywhere, all the time. We’ve yet to figure out the whole geographical boundary thing, outside of live streaming, which is ultimately a better-than-nothing alternative. The further a band is from you, the lower the chance you will see them. It’s still just as dead simple as that. Thankfully for one band, that is all about to change. This Fall, The New Mastersounds, a band whose roots in Leeds, England has limited their Stateside exposure, are making their rounds with a first-time stop in MANY Upstate cities with three nights in Brooklyn (9/11-9/13) and closing Catskill Chill (9/7), the band will be making first time trips to Buffalo (9/3), Rochester (10/7), Saratoga Springs (11/8), and Syracuse (11/9).

The New Mastersounds are riding on the heels of their latest album Therapy, which was released back in March. While they will surely play a few off of the album, the depth of their catalog should bring out some longstanding favorites and a few surprises. The show in Buffalo will be the tour kickoff and is being held at one of Buffalo’s best venues in The Tralf. On the same stage where Lettuce played earlier in the year, the British funksters will bring their jazz-spiked flavor out for all to hear, and finally see. The anticipation around the city for fans is getting stirred into a frenzy with less than a week before the show. The band is known for their blending of old school tone and approach with pure energy. Their music’s simple mission is the passing of kinetic energy, whether through dance, foot tapping, or a neck-jarring head nod. There’s just no way to shake that.

With the Catskill Chill Music Festival looming, the Wednesday night show is the perfect setup for anyone who is looking to get a sneak peek of what they’ll be in for down in Hancock. What you won’t find at The Chill though, and coming to Buffalo for only their fourth show, is West Coast-natives Orgone. The band calls Portland, Oregon home and, again, with the geographical divide, the band has not made it over on this side of the country as much as fans would like. With the funk scene thankfully growing stronger in every city, this band can now make a worthwhile trip to help spread their word.

The combination that was put together by ECE Presents for this show is worthy of an applause. And while we’ll get the jazz side of funk from The New Mastersounds, Orgone plays on the soul side of funk’s fence. Regardless of style, both bands have been around a while and surely will not disappoint the expected packed house at The Tralf.

Grab your tickets now to these shows throughout New York State:

| Buffalo | Hancock (Catskill Chill) | Brooklyn (9/11, 9/12, 9/13 Early, 9/13 Late) |

| Rochester | Saratoga Springs | Syracuse |

August 29, 2014
The Great NY State Fair Starts With a Bang

Starting The Great NY State Fair has started off with a bang, and some lightning, Kellie Pickler took the stage at Chevy Court to a packed crowd holding umbrellas and wearing ponchos. These hardcore country fans were in for a treat at the Fair’s first free show. Full of charm and talent, this young lady brought sunshine to the audience as she sang, shared stories, and gave an amazing performance to kick off the fair’s first show of the year.

Randy Houser – Grandstands Day 1

DAY ONE – Rain or Shine, The Show Must Go On

The one thing that stood out about Kellie was how personable she was with the audience. Whether it was waving to those shouting her name, holding up signs, or just waving her way, she made sure she acknowledged each and every one with a smile and a wave as though seeing an old friend once again. She even signed several autographs during her encore number. My first time and definitely not the last time I see this country girl perform.

Day 1 at The Great NY State Fair was chock full of country superstars. Country music fans hit the lottery with the Grandstand lineup Thursday evening with one of country music’s most loved entertainers, Brad Paisley headlining and he brought along some very special guests, Charlie Worsham, Leah Turner, and Randy Houser to join him.

I had the opportunity to cover these four performers earlier this year for NYS Music at the Taste of Country Music Festival down at Hunter Mountain in the beautiful Catskills. I immediately spotted Charlie Worsham out in the crowd doing what I loved about him most. He was down in the audience just hanging out and talking with all his fans, signing things, and being incognito right up until the time he put his earpieces in and jumped up on the platform and began singing and showing this audience just what he’s about. This young man is one hell of a guitar and banjo player. Sporting his signature orange converse, which he claimed he wore in honor of our Orangemen, he came right out in to the audience to pick and shred number after number. He told the crowd, “You may not know me….yet,” “yet” being the key word in that sentence as once you see Charlie in person, he’s really hard to forget. Yes Charlie, I was there for your first experience crowd surfing. It was epic and I have photos to prove it.

Immediately following Charlie was one of country music’s on the rise female artists, Leah Turner. The one thing that strikes me about Leah Turner is her strength. Her voice is strong, her presence is strong, and her impression is lasting. Rocking the audience and turning heads, the amazing performer is quickly making her mark in the country music business as a force to be reckoned with.

The next artist opening up for Brad was Randy Houser. I was happily anticipating this particular artist because this would be the first time I saw Randy perform his full show. Randy’s musical talent was put to the test this past June when on the way to the Taste of Country Music Festival, his bus broke down somewhere along the Pennsylvania highway. Making a split second decision, Randy and keyboardist, John Henry Trinko, packed it up and headed up through the mountains literally arriving five minutes before he had to go on. Playing an all acoustic set that was spectacular, I couldn’t possibly imagine how he would top that show. Well, the bus arrived this time, and he brought it. With a full band behind him, Randy whipped the audience into a frenzy, leaving it all out on the stage. One word, sensational. So happy I was able to see and hear him both full on with a full band and then stripped down acoustically. When it boils down to it, he is truly an amazing musician and vocalist, and talent such as that is unmistakable.

With the audience primed and ready to roll, the main event began. The one thing I must say about Brad Paisley’s show, is that it’s two shows in one. The perfectly choreographed video that plays behind Brad as he plays hit after hit, is spectacular and puts this show on a whole different level. I should expect no less, as Brad is truly on a different level. Brad is and amazing vocalist, but is also one amazing guitarist, I must add. I think it’s the one part of the show I look forward to the most. Shredding out like the rock star he is, you can’t help but love the new direction country music has been taking, getting back to their southern country rock and roll roots. For those of you who haven’t followed Brad and the comical tweets of late, Brad has been mischievous to say the least. With a new album, Moonlight In The Trunk, ready to be released this week, Brad took matters into his own hands allowing his fans bits and pieces of the album prior to the release date and against the wishes of his record label. This release was extremely important to Brad as his last album didn’t have the intended effect it was supposed to have. Brad felt that taking control and releasing on his terms would accomplish not only the message he wanted to send his fans, but thank his fans for being supportive over the years. Have to say, the comical scuttlebutt between Brad and his label was fun to watch unfold, almost making you wonder if it was a practical joke. In the end, Brad got his wishes did things his way, while the label did things their way and invited the fans to thank him personally by leaking his real email address. In the end, Brad, Label, and Fans all were happy.

DAY TWO – The Show that Could Possibly Break All Records

With Day One in the record books as an amazing start to the 2014 Fair, Day Two was bound to possibly be one of those days that beat some records. There are several factors that would assist in making a day at the Fair a record-breaking day….cooperating weather…special events going on…special day for select groups…or the acts at the stages…yep it was the act going on at Chevy Court at 8PM that would definitely shatter some records this day. This artist was one of those names that would surely draw a full paying crowd at the Grandstand, but instead the Fair treated their attendees to this act for free.

The Fair treated fairgoers to Jason Derulo. I am still waiting to see if Jason was able to break the Bruno Mars attendance back in 2011 of 35,000. Looking at the crowd that evening, I believe it may have come close. Attendees began saving their seats before the 2pm Smashmouth show, and by the time 6pm came along, the inner area was cordoned off. This wasn’t just an entertainer coming out to the middle of the stage and singing. This show had everything. Jason Derulo is already known for his amazing musical talents as a vocalist, but until you see him live, you can’t ascertain his true talents. He came out with a full entourage of professional dancers as he commanded that stage keeping up with each and every step they laid down. All I kept thinking of was how much he reminded me of Michael Jackson, with the voice and the moves. He definitely has something special. Dancing With The Stars would be handing him that trophy for sure if they included him in one their upcoming seasons.

DAY THREE – Mr. 305 Hit’s the 315- Everyone Loves Some Bacon, Brothers That Is

As Day Three began, the NY State Fair included two amazing shows at the Chevy Court stage. The 2PM show was Sean Kingston, which I unfortunately missed, as I’m still figuring out how to be in two places at once. However I was able to take in their 8PM show with The Bacon Brothers Band. What an amazing group of performers they were. Rocking with a bluegrass, country, jazzy, pop vibe this group were thoroughly entertaining and very talented with a big variety of instrumentation which included various percussion, harmonica, mandolin, electric and acoustic guitar, keyboards, etc. Was so pleased they made Central New York one of their stops on their summer tour schedule.

At the Grandstands on Day Three we had Mr. 305 himself, Pitbull. This distinguished performer is hugely talented and one of the best business men I have ever seen in the music business, taking the business by storm and branding himself as a worldwide superstar. He has appeared in numerous collaborations, taken home award after award (including a Grammy) and built himself an international empire in a ten year span. Taking the stage in a tailored suit and sunglasses, his charm, style, and charisma spilled over into the audience as they screamed and cheered his name. Singing hit after hit, Pitbull had a stronghold on the audience from the moment he came out.

As NYS Music covers the Great New York State Fair, we would like to point out a few notables to make sure you take the time to see. I always have loved the 25 cent milk, the butter sculpture, and all the animals, this year my new discovery was the butterfly exhibit. For a single $1, you can enter a tent filled with the most beautiful butterflies as they twitter and land on you. Was an amazing experience and such a cool find right inside the Horticulture Building. Oh, and while you’re there don’t forget to get your $1 baked potato.

Looking forward to the next three days there, the musical acts, foods, and adventures you too can share at the worlds first and best the Great NY State Fair.

August 28, 2014
Pink Talking Fish Swimming Through Northeast This Fall

Pink Talking Fish, with the wonderful combination of musical influences from Pink Floyd, The Talking Heads, and Phish, will once again make their way around New York and the rest of the Northeast this fall.

The band loves to weave in and out of all three bands’ repertoires without a pause, making this band one of the most interesting tribute acts out there today. It’s no secret how much New York loves all three of these bands, and the band is playing the most shows in that state to satisfy the crowds. The first New York date is on October 18 at New York City’s The Cutting Room. The following Thursday and Friday will see the band tackle The Wescott Theatre and Putnam Den respectively.

“There’s some serious energy when it comes to live music in Upstate New York,” said Eric Gould, the band’s bassist. “I went to college in Ithaca so, between attending shows all around the region during my time there and touring with Particle, I have a special place in my soul for this music scene. So psyched about late night Bella Terra and the 1-2 punch of Syracuse/Saratoga. We are going to have no repeats between those 2 shows so that people have an opportunity for a multiple show run PTF experience and catch a bit of the “tour fever”.”

The last time they were at Putnam Den was a great show and it sounds like this time will be more of the same. The full tour can be seen below.

August 18, 2014
Joe Driscoll and Sekou Kouyate to Set the Westcott on ‘Faya’

Syracuse, are you ready for music that will intrigue your mind, soothe your soul and get you hyped and dancing? Music that stretches the globe in influence and is half-born of a Syracuse native? Music sparked from the collaboration of a local hero turned international performer, and an acclaimed master from a far off land? Then you are ready for Joe Driscoll and Sekou Kouyate. Following an incendiary local performance at the Grassroots Festival in Ithaca, NY, Joe Dricoll and Sekou Kouyate are sure to bring a dedicated Syracuse fan base and many new followers to the Westcott Theater on Aug. 22.

Faya, Joe Driscoll and Sekou Kouyate’s debut album and the impetus for the current international tour, is appropriately titled. Throughout most of the album, Joe lays down funky or reggae-based guitar chords while Sekou’s insanely beautiful and rapid kora riffs lick the rhythm like flames. For those of you who have never heard a kora, you are in for a treat. The kora is a West African instrument that plays like a super-fast yet elegant harp. Sekou, a native of the West African country of Guinea, is no average kora player either- he is a master in all senses of the word. He is recognized throughout African music circles as a phenomenon, and known in France as the “Jimi Hendrix of the kora,” for his intensity, flowing virtuosity and innovative use of effects. Joe’s recent years of successful recording and touring as a solo act throughout Europe and the U.S. have polished his skills as a musician and solidified his sound, thereby enabling synthesis of different languages and musical styles. Joe’s unique take on hip-hop, funk, and reggae ties seamlessly into his exploration of exotic Afrobeat and traditional West African grooves.

Joe and Sekou share vocals throughout the album, which is a testament to both musician’s adaptability. Joe’s characteristic and insightful (English) hip-hop lyrics are broken up by full verses (sung by both) in French. When Sekou met Joe at the Nuit Metis (Mixed Night) Festival in Marseille France, neither of them spoke much of each other’s language; and yet, they were able to construct (in one week) an innovative and highly entertaining musical project that is most definitely hot like Faya.

Come out to the Westcott Theater on August 26th at 9pm and experience a new take on an old favorite and a cultural coalition that is sure to burn down the house.

August 17, 2014
Dierks Bentley Announces Utica, NY as Part of Second Leg of #RISERTOUR

Included in the first round of announced cities for Dierks Bentley’s second leg of his Risertour is Utica. In a genius of a marketing concept, fans are asked to unlock the cities by sharing the announcement. As the percentage of shares increase, so do the list of cities until all cities and details are announced.

Dierks Bentley

Dierks Bentley will be joined on this leg of the tour by Randy Houser, Eric Paslay, and Tim Hicks. Fans in attendance at the Taste of Country Music Festival this past June at Hunter Mountain saw first hand the amazing job Randy Houser did in the 9th hour, putting on an acoustic show as his bandmates sat with the broken down bus on the side of a Pennsylvanian highway. Also performing at the Taste of Country was Eric Paslay who is quickly making a name for himself in country music with hits such as “Song About A Girl” and “Friday Night” and wowing the audiences. Canadian country star, Tim Hicks, will join the group north of the Mason-Dixon line and will learn first hand just how much these northerners love their country music and these superstars.

Randy Houser

Eric Paslay

Stay tune to NYS Music.com for more information on RISERTOUR.

August 13, 2014
Enter The Haggis Once Again Tops it off at Saranac Brewery Thursdays

Enter the Haggis has become a well-loved tradition and crowd favorite at Saranac Thursdays lineup. The lads always draw a sell out crowd, and this year’s event continued the custom.

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

These five musicians make up one of the most dedicated bands I’ve had the privilege to meet and work with over the last few years. They are always giving back to their fan base, lovingly referred to as Haggis Heads. One of the first bands I know to successfully take over their own management by using Kickstarter and Pledgemusic.com, they are now three albums into making music on their own terms, exploring new avenues and pushing their limits musically and creatively. This is what makes Enter The Haggis so amazing; They are never stagnant and always looking ahead to new creative ways to bring messages of love, life, and family to their listeners.

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

Anxiously anticipating their upcoming release of their latest project, The Penny Black Project, this album is going to be solely for their fans, as the music has all been inspired by the stories submitted by Haggis Heads. This band continues to push their limits and stretching their capabilities to bring about the most diverse sounds. Not categorizing them into any one genre but giving them a unique mix of all their influences over the years. I think this is what is most appealing to me as a music lover. Their lyrics tell a story, the music accentuates their mediums, their sound is never the same – they evolve. Over the years this is what translates into musical longevity. Times change, current events change, technology changes, and music should follow and evolve in the same manner. Enter The Haggis identifies with change and embraces the opportunity to bring to their fans a piece of themselves.

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

As they took the stage at Saranac, the audience was ready to party along with the band as they played some of their best-loved songs. It never ceases to amaze me how this band can pump up an audience to the point of frenzy with “Lannigan’s Ball” and “Gasoline”. Those numbers incite an almost riot and singing and dancing each and every time they play them. However it was their encore number, “Long Way Home”, that left me speechless this time as it’s flavor was a mixture of sounds of celtic, bluegrass, and folk instrumentally and lyrically. Not sure as I’ve ever heard them play that one before and I must add, “Wow!” Hoping this is part of the new sound they are turning towards in the impending album, because it’s uniquely distinctive and appealing.

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

As always, Enter The Haggis’s performance at Saranac was amazing to say the least, and the CNY fan base just absolutely loves them. Stay tuned to NYS Music in the near future for a preview and interview with the band about their new project and what fans reactions are. If interested in supporting the project please visit their site for more information on their new album and upcoming shows.

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

Enter The Haggis – Saranac Thursdays

August 11, 2014
Electron Ready to Plug-In This Fall

Electron, the super group created in 2000 by Disco Biscuits frontman Marc Brownstein, is getting back together for a batch of shows this fall.

This fall you can catch them at the Catskill Chill Music Festival on September 7th as well as B.B. Kings in New York City on October 17th. The next night they will take the stage at Syracuse’s beautiful Westcott Theatre.

The group consists of fellow Disco Biscuits member Aron Magner, Mike Greenfield of Lotus, and Tom Hamilton of Brothers Past. This all-star group is always a favorite to go see as they do not tour as often as fans would hope since each member is usually busy with their main band.

Other shows are spread throughout the Northeast and can be seen below. Make sure to catch them this fall as it’s unknown when the band will have the time in their schedule to come together again.

September 5 Lancaster, PA—Chameleon Club w/The Beating
September 6 Worcester, MA—Electric Haze
September 7 Hancock, NY—Catskill Chill Music Festival
October 15 Washington, DC—Howard Theatre
October 16 New Haven, CT—Toad’s Place
October 17 New York, NY—B.B. King’s
October 18 Syracuse, NY—Westcott Theatre
October 19 Philadelphia, PA—TLA

August 11, 2014
The Great New York State Fair – There Is a Reason It’s Called “Great”

This year’s Great New York State Fair is adding up to be one spectacular event with headlining shows at the Grandstand and Chevy Court venues, while the regional stages offer a diverse mix for music lovers of all genres. Taking place for 12 days and nights – August 21-September 1, 2014.

The Great NY State Fair is appropriately named as Syracuse, NY was the site of the nations very first State Fair back in 1841. The fair traveled for the next 47 years amongst New York State cities until finding its final home in Syracuse in 1890; when the Syracuse Land Co. donated its current 100 acre property. Originally held to promote agricultural improvement and local farm and home, the fair has evolved over the years to feature not only these items, but also to promote both local musicians and national musicians as they celebrate traditional customs and cultures of regional areas and attract families to the event. In 1972, Sonny & Cher’s performance broke all concert attendance records, holding the record until 2009 when Shinedown’s concert of 15,000 strong exceeded the record, only to be ousted once again in 2011 when Bruno Mars drew more than 35,000 concert goers to Chevy Court. Can any acts beat that attendance record this year? It could happen I believe with the stellar line up being offered.

In addition to multitude of fair like attractions; i.e. livestock, carnival rides, competitions for home-made goods and wares, and of course fried everything, the New York State Fair also offers five stages throughout the fairgrounds featuring the most diverse collection of music and entertainment for all attendees. The State Fair Grandstand is the largest venue hosting the powerhouse performers and events each evening, while Chevy Court is an attendee favorite as huge acts come to perform for the fairgoers free of charge right inside the main gates twice a day. The Midway Music Series features acts on the west side of the fairgrounds over by the Midway carnival rides showcasing national and regional performers of all sorts throughout the entire day, while the Regional Artists Variety Stage features special regional artists and acts from our great state. The Empire Theater Stage is located inside at the Art & Home Center and features a multitude of talent from special speakers, to performers, and dancers all day long inside the cover of the Art & Home Center Building.

NYS Music Music Guide will be there throughout the week to highlight as many shows as possible for our readers. With acts all over the grounds at the same time, our team will try to bring to you a diverse mix of national, regional, and local entertainment throughout the week with sneak peek photos, social media uploads, and a full review of shows, interviews, and photo galleries we are able to document.

Overview of Venue Lineups –

Grandstands – For dates, times, and ticket information please go online to www.nysfair.org

Brad Paisley/Randy Houser/Leah Turner/Charlie Worsham – This amazing line up has been touring this summer bringing down the house in venues all over the nation. Each one of these acts are favorites in country music and to have all four together is a real treat and a must see lineup for everyone. Brad Paisley shreds like a rock star, Randy Houser still has me floored with how he showed up at Taste of Country after his bus broke down and did the most amazing acoustic set I have ever seen, while Leah Turner rocks the stage like a country superstar, and one of the most loved new artists Charlie Worsham gives so much back to his fans that it’s no wonder he’s a fan favorite.

Carrie Underwood – Super excited to have this sensational powerhouse here this year. One of the first to be announced, the anticipation of her arrival performing at the Grandstands mounts daily.

Journey/Cheap Trick – Both amazing rock and roll bands, their music spans generations of fans bringing to Central NY one amazing rock show. These bands are timeless and it is bound to be packed.
Uproar – Entire Lineup of Bands was featured in NYS Music ‘s recent preview article. Have you seen it yet? This will be one full day of energy and mayhem. Mark my words.

Train/Wallflowers – Having Train and the Wallflowers together totally is mind-blowing and has me in high anticipation of this show as these two Grammy award-winning groups will absolute blow the roof off the stage. Can’t wait. Forget San Franciso, just save me.

Jason Aldean/Florida Georgia Line/Tyler Farr -Wow is all I can say about this trio of acts. Some of the biggest names in country music on the stage on the same night? Each should be headlining their own shows, and together they are a winning trifecta. Definite winning bet.

Kid Rock with Big Smo – This multi talented musician has made leaps across genres bringing to audiences everywhere an amazing eclectic sound. Opening with Big Smo, who is categorized as an american country rap musician, what an awesome combo.

Pitbull – The 315 can’t wait to welcome the 305 to the state fair this year as this international superstar fires up the stage at the fair.

CHEVY COURT – for dates and times please go online to nysfair.org

Jason Derulo – Can he possibly break the record set in 2011? I’m betting on this one.

Kellie Pickler – Opening the stage for the first show, this country superstar will get this party started.

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – Nothing is cooler than a rocking chick with a guitar, and Joan Jett is the epitome of rock and roll.

Angie Johnson – Up and coming country artist Angie Johnson is best known as part of Cee Lo Green’s team on The Voice, but what makes this young lady so special is her dedication to her country as part of our military.

Eli Young Band – This highly popular country band has been topping the charts over the past eight years, and for those who have not had a chance to experience the Eli Young Band, you are in for a treat.

Uncle Kracker – Hugely popular country musician, Uncle Kracker is one of those musicians that can leap across genres with the ease of spiderman. Love that voice.

MKTO – These two young men share their talents in not only stage but screen. Emerging pop duo hit the charts already with “Classic”, can’t wait to see what else is on their new album.

Phillip Phillips – Hard to believe Phillip Phillips just won Idol only two years ago. Since that time he’s released two albums hitting the charts and making his way in the business as a veteran now.

Barenaked Ladies – This Canadian rock band certainly has a way of bringing to life their music in a fun-loving, quick quitted, fast paced manner, that makes it fun to experience.

Smash Mouth – California-based rock band, Smash Mouth has a unique way of bringing to life covers as well as their own original music that has an effect on your feet that can’t stop them moving around in time to the music. Strange…very strange.

The Bacon Brothers – Okay, who’s with me on this one?….Is there anything better than Bacon? Okay maybe two of them then. I stand corrected.

Sean Kingston – This dynamic Jamaican based musician brings the tropics together with the asphalt jungle mixing music in a way that moves his audiences.

Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone – Original lead vocalist will bring audience members back to their 60’s roots with hits such as “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” and “There’s A Kind of Hush”

Bowser’s Rock and Roll Party – Like to travel back to the ’50s Bowser certainly has a way of transporting you with his Rock and Roll Party

Night Ranger – Turning the volume back up with Night Ranger is just what the audience will love as they belt out hits such as “Sister Christian”

Chef Anne Burrell – Originally from the central New York region (Cazenovia), it’s a pleasure to welcome back Food Network host and great Chef Anne Burrell.

The Neighbourhood – It’s fitting to have the band who plays “Sweater Weather” come to upstate NY and share their talents. We promise to keep it cool without the need for any sweaters.

Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes – Jersey based rock group, this band has been making music with the likes of Steve Van Zandt and the Boss and Jon Bon Jovi over the years.

Bell Biv Devoe – When talking about R&B and Hip Hop in the 90’s you can’t help but think of Bell Biv Devoe. Again, it does something to your feet, where twitching begins and movement takes over.

John Kay & Steppenwolf – Classic rock at it’s best, these guys were “Born to Be Wild” and CNY is ready to be wild right along with them.

The Doobie Brothers – No introduction is needed for this group. This group is considered timeless rock, and deservedly so.

As you meander around the fairgrounds don’t forget to stop in at the Region Artists Variety Stage, The Midway Music Stage, and the Empire Stages to get a taste of local and regional music and performers. Looking to see dancers, don’t miss the Ukrainian Dancers, the Irish Dancers, or the Cloggers. For a special treat this year you can see the contestants from The Voice, three of the original Brady Bunch children, ice carving demonstrations, comedians from Chelsea Lately, a hypnotist, favorites from The Amazing Race and Big Brother, and variety of instrumentalists. As for music, there is something for everyone from Caribbean and Latin acts of One Black Voice and Panigma Steel Drum Bands, and Grupo Pagan, to Polka with Fritz’s Polka Band. You’ll have Indian music with Veena & Devesh, and Folk/Americana Music with Mark Zane, Dark Hollow, Ruddy Well Band, and Big Eyed Phish. If Country is more your thing fans will see John Anderson with Logan Brill and Morgan Frazier, and newcomer Shannon Marie. For those into Hard-Rock/Rock you’ll love Afterburn, Pacinello, Young The Giant, 4 Point 0, Mo Chester, and Action Item. For a diverse mix, don’t miss these other regional favorites – Ferguson & Rogers, Margo Macero, Wagner Inc., Two Hour Delay, Ashley Allen with the Goonies, Cold Sweat Roc, Jenna Renae, Action Item, Bill Schmitt & The Bluesmasters, Until It’s Over There, Merry Mischief, Cash, Chris Dukes Band, Anthony Gargiula & The AG Dance Crew, Jason J., Megan & Liz With Heyday, The Lake Effect, the Rick Short Band, and Michael & Anjela Lynn featuring the Talented Ones.

To find out more information about specials each day at the fair, purchasing tickets online, maps and directions, vendors, or schedule of events and competitions, please visit the Great New York State Fair webpage.

August 10, 2014
Umphrey’s Mcgee triUMPH over storm at Saranac Brewery in Utica 08/03

Diehard fans brave the elements during the summer season to enjoy their favorite band and songs with good friends. Umphrey’s McGee fans proved this to be true after enduring heavy rains and thunderstorms this past Sunday, August 3 at the outdoor venue at the Saranac Brewery in Utica. Light rain started the evening, progressing to heavy rains with the occasional lightning strike and booming thunder. For everyone’s safety, the concert was delayed for two hours with fans seeking refuge in the Saranac Brewery, a reminder that there are worse places to be stuck indoors. With the delay of the show, Umphrey’s could only perform one set with a show time of 9PM vs 7PM and a curfew of 11PM but what a set it was.

Umphrey’s McGee. Photo by Bryan Lasky

Touring to support their latest and 8th album, Similar Skin, representing their new label Nothing Too Fancy Music. Umphrey’s played some fresh music as well as classic favorites. The show opened with a groovy and hard “Ringo” as bassist Ryan Stasik laid down a funky doo-wop and the band hit heavy rock peaks only to sway down to a jazzy melody from keyboardist Joel Cummins. “The Linear” saw crisp vocals from Brendan Bayliss and fast paced rhythms from Andy Farag and Kris Myers. The set got dark with a haunting “Morning Song” with echoes from Jake Cinninger guitar picking before going into an upbeat “Out of Order”. Among the many reasons to enjoy an Umphrey’s McGee show is the light show. Lighting Designer Jefferson Waful’s lights are truly stunning especially with the raindrops reflecting every glow. The dimensions of color, light symmetry and precise timing soar as high as the music does. Umphrey’s McGee treated soaked fans to a three song encore, the reggae easy flow of “FF”, the electrifying boogie of “Bad Friday” followed by the first and only cover of the night, David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”.

Umphrey’s McGee is a powerhouse of improvisational progressive rock clashed with classic metal and electronic funk. Fans can download this show and past shows from umlive.net. Be sure not to miss Umphrey’s McGee when they return to Upstate NY as part of their fall tour to the Rapids Theatre in Niagara Falls on Oct 23 and the Forum Theatre in Binghamton on Oct 29.

Setlist: Ringo, #5 > The Linear, In The Kitchen, Morning Song > Out Of Order, Example 1, Educated Guess, Wappy Sprayberry > Eat
Encore: FF > Bad Friday > Let’s Dance

August 8, 2014
Municipal Waste and Madball Set to Play Bogie’s

Thrash metal outfit Municipal Waste and New York City veteran hardcore group Madball are playing Bogies in Albany tonight in attempt to make a decent draw to potentially save the business, or at least, keep the steady stream of heavy shows coming to the venue.

Upstate Black N Blue, owned by Mike Valente, released the following statement yesterday on their Facebook page.

“Here’s the deal. If you care about hardcore and metal, come out tomorrow night (Thursday) to Bogies for MADBALL AND MUNICIPAL WASTE. This is a big tour. It shouldn’t draw less than 400 people in any city. But if we get less than 200 people tomorrow it shows a steady downward trend in attendance and bogies will have to make a decision about whether we can continue to taking a beating and lose money trying to stay open and provide a home to countless bands and people for underground music. So if you want. Bogies to stay open and you like hardcore and metal you better be there on Thursday (Aug 7)”

Municipal Waste’s latest release The Fatal Feast was released back in 2012 and has been steadily touring in support of that album ever since. Madball’s latest release Hardcore Lives was released just last month.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are only $18 at the door. Honestly, this show should be insane. Metal and hardcore fans need to get off their couches for this show and not only support two phenomenal bands, but help save a venue that has done so much for heavy music in the Capital Region.

August 7, 2014