Cut Chemist, founder of Jurassic 5 and helped to form the Grammy winning Ozomatli, with his 7″ size record partner Josh “DJ Shadow” Davis have added dates to their current “Renegades of Rhythm” tour. This “vinyl-only” tour honoring Afrika Bambaataa’s influence on hip-hop’s beginnings is spreading to new markets through November in the U.S. and Canada. The big news is the DJs are using Bambaataa’a actual vinyl collection for this tour.
Their performances are garnering critical acclaim, especially the two sold-out tour openers at Irving Plaza in NYC with Bambaataa in the audience while they spun beats from his legendary vinyl collection. Rolling Stone recently gave high praise for the turntablists, saying “Deep into their September 4th set at New York’s Irving Plaza, as DJ Shadow bent over his spread of turntables, cueing the next sequence of beats, his partner in spin, Cut Chemist, gingerly lifted a piece of 12-inch vinyl from one of his decks and held it aloft, like a round, black equivalent of the Ten Commandments. He had, in fact, just played a religious object.”
The list of new dates is expansive and includes stops at The Town Ballroom, Buffalo on 11/11 and The Westcott Theater in Syracuse on 11/10. Check the deets and beats at their websites, DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist. There is a ton of info available on each, both historical and the story of Bambaataa’s influence to them both as it’s being told through this tour.
Nov. 6 – Pawtucket, R.I. – The Met
Nov. 8 – Montreal, Quebec – Corona
Nov. 10 – Syracuse, N.Y. – The Westcott Theater
Nov. 11 – Buffalo, N.Y. – Town Ballroom
Nov. 14 – Pittsburgh, Pa. – Mr. Smalls Theatre
Nov. 15 – Charlottesville, Va. – Jefferson Theater
Nov. 17 – Athens, Ga. – Georgia Theatre
Nov. 20 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Garrick Centre
Nov. 21 – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – O’Brien’s Event Centre
Nov. 22 – Edmonton, Alberta – Encore at WEM
Nov. 23 – Calgary, Alberta – Flames Central
Nov. 25 – Oakland, Calif. – The Fox
If you attend college at SU, every now and then you need an excuse to go to Funk N’ Waffles. Maybe it’s the sweet aroma, abstract art, or the dynamic acts they book. No matter what your reasoning is, October 9th is the day to be at the Funk, because the one the only Pigeons Playing Ping Pong will astound all of us with a funky fresh energy that will make the best (waffle) dinner and a show of all time. Based out of Baltimore, this quirky combo has sailed to the top in the past five years, from the University of Maryland dorms to prestigious stages across the nation. I got to talk with the lead singer Greg Ormont about their past summer festival season, greatest moments, and upcoming releases.
Julia Wolfe: If you were describing your music to someone who doesn’t know your band, what three adjectives would you use?
Greg Ormont: High energy, psychedelic, and funk. I would need to put fun in there somewhere, so I would probably do that for extra credit?
JW: Sure! I’m cool with bonus points. I also noticed you guys recently played at the Catskill Chill Music Festival, alongside Lettuce, Papadosio, and Dopapod. What was that like?
GO: It was an honor to play Catskill Chill. It was our second time playing there, and the lineup is just so impressive from top to bottom. It was an incredibly deep and fanastic, funky lineup, so playing alongside those musicians is just a dream come true. We were able to invite some of our friends up on stage, so we had Mihali Savoulidis from Twiddle play guitar with us, along with others. There’s so much great cool stuff to see and great music.
JW: What would you say is your dream gig? What bands do you idolize?
GO: My dream gigs would be Jam Cruise, Madison Square Garden, and Vegas on Halloween somewhere. I would play with Phish, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd. If I had to answer with one dream gig, though, it would be the Superbowl Halftime Show with special guest Stevie Wonder.
JW: I looked into your discography, and it shows your first record was released in 2010, so you guys are still pretty new. How have you handled taking off so quickly in the past 5 years?
GO: We just love to play music. Back when we started this band, it was for fun. To this day, it’s still about the fun. As we play bigger venues and have more prestigious lineups, we continue to focus on having a good time on stage and have the crowd have an even better time. We’ve always been drawn to the energy that we share with an audience, and that’s what we focus on. It’s nice that we get to play later and longer at shows, but it all boils down to having a great time.
JW: It looks like you’ve hit up a ton of venues across the US. What has been your favorite so far?
GO: Opening for the Disco Biscuits at the Best Buy Theatre on New Year’s Eve. The 930 Club in DC and the 8 by 10 in Baltimore were also some of our favorites.
JW: Where can we expect to see you in the future? Any cool shows or releases coming up?
GO: We just recently announced New Year’s Eve in Richmond, Virginia. Just yesterday, we announced more shows in Upstate New York. We’re also playing Aura Music Festival in Florida, which is one of my favorite places to play by far. It’s one of the most beautiful grounds I’ve ever stepped on with the most visionary lineups of the year. It’s going to be a great show.
JW: If people want to follow your updates, where can they find you?
GO: Definitely on our facebook page as well as our website, but I also would recommend to follow our Instagram. Facebook has most of our band information, but our Instagram has all of our wacky, spur of the moment photos from our tour, so both are worth checking out.
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong released their second album, Psychology in July of 2014, and have undergone an extensive season of touring since. Despite their multiple stops in upstate New York, you won’t get as much of an inclusive experience unless you go to Funk N’ Waffles on South Crouse Ave. They stop here October 9th at 8:30pm, and food and beverages will be available for sale, as always. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door, but I’d recommend getting there early to secure a seat. See ya there!
As the curtain is lowered at 7pm on October 11, 2014 on Enter The Haggis, at the Wescott Theater, in Syracuse, NY, attendees commonly known as Haggis Heads, will close a chapter to a much-loved book, and open a new one. The title of the new book? Jubilee Riots. A name that invokes chaos, but in a fun exuberant manner. Fitting as these five musicians are known to take a crowd and incite utter chaos with their electric, eclectic, gripping sound.
Enter The Haggis
As we bid them farewell we also welcome a new sound, a new path, and a new opportunity to support our friends in their new adventure. Enter The Haggis aka Jubilee Riots has extended to NYS Music’s readers the opportunity to win (Post) one of three sets of two tickets to their final show on October 11, 2014. All you need to do is go to the link on the NYS Music’s Facebook page, and follow the directions to enter. It’s simple..you must first “Like” the NYS Music Facebook page…then go to the Jubilee Riots page and “Like” them, and then comment in the post as to who you will bring.
Enter The Haggis
Be a part of history, and a part of the future by showing your support of live music in Upstate New York and Enter The Haggis as they move ahead to new adventures. The chance to win ends Sunday, October 6, 2014, at midnight so don’t hesitate to win your chance to be part of history at the farewell show of the year. Winners will be announced the morning of October 7, 2014 on the NYS Music’s Facebook page. Good luck to all who enter and see you there at the show.
Syracuse’s own Country Swagg Band, opened for Colt Ford at Toby Keith’s Syracuse, Friday night September 26. Performing covers of big stars such as Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan, Country Swagg brought their “A” game to get the party started. As always, they did not disappoint. The show was packed with high intensity and yes, lots of fun too.
Lead guitarist, Tim Horst, just amazes me with that guitar. It’s hard enough playing it while in front of you, but he plays it backwards and up behind his head. During a sweet sentimental moment just after singing “Say Yes” written by lead vocalist Mike Johnson, he professed his love for his new bride of two weeks to the crowd. The fans, of course, just ate it up. Nothing like a country fairytale. The crowd sang along to every song and showed their support for this local country group; several Country Swagg T-shirts were even seen in the sea of people.
Country Swagg Band
Georgia native, Colt Ford hit the stage with his bass thumping mix of country/rock and hip hop to a huge crowd of fans ready to bring down the house. Colt Ford and his guys showed their love of the USA through some of their music and of course the American flag that hung from Colt’s shotgun mic stand. They saluted our veterans and troops with heartfelt lyrics that brought a few tears to the fans. Then it was back to the high energy, chest thumping bass that just takes control of your body and you’re unconsciously dancing away. He was set to party all night. Ford rocked the stage all while showing the crowd his fancy footwork and shaking his hips – reaching into the crowd grabbing cell phones to take selfies, handing them back to aw struck fans was the highlight of the evening.
Another highlight of this performance was when he asked the drummer for a stick and reached out into the crowd handing it to a young boy. Following that, one of the crew members approached the boy with a stack of picks. The smile on his face was priceless. Such a class act;
Ford sang of everything country, farmers to home cooked meals and truckers and hot country girls. They knew how to party and strike a chord in every fan there. The guys left the stage only to come back out to a chanting crowd to perform a cover of Eminem’s song “Lose Yourself”. Then they saluted the crows and America, all bowing together while Colt Fold raised his mic stand and waved the American Flag.
Despite the torrential downpour that swept the Syracuse streets this past Sunday, this year’s annual Westcott Street Cultural Fair lit up with a vibrancy and energy that could outlast any inclement weather. With over 30 acts performing on six different stages across Westcott Street, thousands of visitors got the chance to celebrate their cultural roots with acts ranging from Ivory Coast inspired drumming to tribal fusion belly dance.
The festival features over 100 artist tents, with a range of shopping in addition to Westcott Street’s most trusted food vendors. Free classes were also available during the entirety of the festival, where visitors of all ages can learn yoga, belly dance, and drumming. In case you’d rather watch the pros, you can always mosey over to the Wacheva Multicultural tent, where you can witness their Drumming and Dance studio perform Flamenco, Salsa, and African Dance routines.
With the addition of the Golisano Children’s Hospital Kids’ Stage (and a plethora of puppies!), this festival has a friendly, family-oriented vibe. But don’t fret fellow millennials- the ongoing concert series engages audiences of all ages, especially for funk lovers. If you consider James Brown and Wild Cherry your scene, dancing in the pouring rain to the Blacklites as they perform on the WAER Main Stage is an unforgettable experience. With an energetic stage presence and howling 12-piece band, there was no way you could stand still during their performance.
For anyone who wants to stay in the loop for next year’s event, follow the Westcott Street Cultural Fair on their website, Facebook, and Twitter.
As I prepared for Day 11 at the Great NY State Fair, I looked forward to the closing out the day of music, some glitz and glamour with my Miss Syracuse ladies, and taking in all the exhibits, food, and festivities as the week-long Fair began winding down. It had been the most amazing week for NYS Music staff members as we covered shows and events, and took in all the fun we possibly could so that we could share with our readers. With the Grandstands holding its final concert the night before, I looked forward to the shows at Chevy Court and a local band who I had been wanting to see for a while this fine Sunday.
First up at Chevy Court was MKTO, then I would be off to see The Rick Short Band, and then I would finally get to check another off my bucket list, with the Phillip Phillips show. Apparently I was not the only one with the Phillip Phillips show on a bucket list. As I approached the photography area at Chevy Court, I learned that one young lady had been there since sunrise when her folks dropped her at the gates to get the perfect seats. This was surely going to be a day to remember for her as she sat front and center with her friends, beaming from ear to ear that she would be first row center to see her favorites MKTO and Phillip Phillips. Now that’s a fan.
Day 11
MKTO – Who is MKTO you ask? MKTO has recently burst onto the pop music scene over the past few years with their hits “Thank You” and “Classic”. The duo, made of up Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller, met while working together on Nikolodean’s show Gigantic.
These two extremely talented young men began jamming together and the duo was born. Mixing pop, rap, and hip hop, their style is refreshing and energetic. Their background in acting, their musical talent, and their dynamic stage presence is the perfect combination to be the next big thing. Truly enjoyed watching them as they performed, and as they brought their young crowd to the feet singing and dancing along. Have to admit, do love their song “Classic”; is catchy and sends a good message to the younger generation about the importance of keeping it classy.
Set List: Could Be Me > Forever Until Tomorrow > God Only Knows > American Dream > No More Second Chances > Heartbreak > Am I Wrong > Wasted > Nowhere > Get My Way > Hide Your Girl > Goodbye Song > Thank You > Classic
Rick Short Band – Over the past few years I have tried to coordinate my schedule to be able to catch local favorites and good friend Rick Short and his band out and about. Unfortunately until today it had eluded me. With Tracy Bowens on vocals, Zach Calidonna on bass, Eddie Reilly on vocals and drums, Brian Tuttle on lead guitar, Callendra Comstock on vocals, and Rick Short on vocals and guitar, they played several songs that will be featured on their upcoming CD they are working on. With an anticipated release somewhere in the spring, the group shared with the audience some of their upcoming releases to positive results. His band, The Rick Short Band, specializes in what they call real rock and roll. We certainly were rocked, and look forward to seeing them again.
Phillip Phillips – Crowds began to gather for Phillips Phillips earlier than normal for this free show at Chevy Court. After exploring the fairgrounds for the day I decided to stake my claim to a spot close by the stage for the evening. Taking possession much earlier than normally, I wasn’t alone in my thought process. The immediate stage area was already spoken for, mainly by those who had seats from the earlier show. So as I sat there partaking in one of my favorite past times, people watching, I witnessed something pretty special that made Phillip Phillips a pretty stand up guy in my book. The security people, who by the way were awesome the whole fair, took notice of that young lady who had arrived at sunrise to see this show. Notifying the management for Phillip Phillips, shortly before the show began they surprise her and escorted her back stage to meet him in person. In tears and shaking, the young lady could barely walk to the back for the encounter. As she returned from the occurrence, she was ear-to-ear smiles chattering away about what had just happened. I just love seeing performers take notice like that and thank their fans who are so dedicated them. The humility in it sets them apart in my book.
Phillip Phillips who is best known as the winner of American Idol season 11, this young man has found a way to share his passion with the world, and we are certainly glad he has. With two albums under his belt, his song “Home” is the highest selling coronation song from any of the Idol winners to date. Phillip knew he had the music fever at the age of 14. Mentored by his brother-in-law,Benjamin Neil, Phillip pursued his passion in and around his hometown of Leesburg, GA playing with his brother in law’s band at local venues and events. Trying out for America’s Got Talent, he never made it to the final rounds. However this didn’t deter him, in fact it made him more determined to succeed, and off he went to audition for American Idol. Never in jeopardy of being eliminated during the competition, his talent shone through.
As he played at Chevy Court, it was apparent to me that this 23-year-old young man was special. As Phillip Phillip took the stage, what occurred during this performance seemed almost magical in its energy. I had covered the majority of the events over the course of the week, and as I began to watch him perform I was totally blown away. His enthusiasm and passion were transparent and you felt it as he performed. His stage presence and interactions with the audience just drew you in more. All the artists booked are talented, and I enjoy each and every performance, but WOW is all I can say about Phillip Phillips. He sang and played with a passion that mesmerized you. You literally felt the music as he played. Hands down this was my favorite performance of the Fair. He had me at hello.
The special passion and energy didn’t end at the edge of the stage either. One special couple took this opportunity to celebrate their special moment with the entire audience as Phillip Phillips played along. Yep, this show was special for sure.
Set List: Lead On > Get Up > Raging Fire > Unpack > Where We Came From > Gone > Man On The Moon > Trigger > Fly > Lillipop > Fool’s Dance > Home
Day 12 – $1 Day
Well as the Fair came to a close on Labor Day, they decided to try something new this year by offering $1 entrance, $1 rides, and many vendors charged $1 for favorite food items. As this new concept was born, it’s one I believe will live a long life as the record that was broken after twenty-five years the previous Saturday, was once again broken. 122,870 people took advantage of the final day at The Great NY State Fair.
Doobie Brothers – Closing out Chevy Court were the legendary Doobie Brothers. This multi-talented group has demonstrated their longevity and perseverance in the music business by doing exactly what they love, making great music. With a blend of blues, soul, R&B, and rock ‘n’ roll, these multi-talented award-winning musicians just continue to make great music and rock their audiences. The band has produced 3 multi-platinum, 7 platinum and 14 Gold albums; with five top 10 singles and 16 top 40 hits.
This ever evolving group, has proven over the course of the years that no matter what changes occur within the band, within the music industry, or within the world, being true to their sound and making music their way, produces music with a heart that their tried and true fans, and an ever evolving new fan base just love. Touring now with the band we have Tom Johnston – guitars, keyboards, harmonica, vocals, Patrick Simmons – guitars, banjo, flute, vocals, John McFee – guitars, harmonica, dobro, pedal steel, violin, vocals, John Cowan – bass guitar, vocals, Guy Allison – keyboards, backing vocals, Marc Russo – saxophones, Ed Toth – drums, and Tony Pia – drums, percussion. I personally am looking forward to their newest album’s release around the beginning of November 2014. In a collaborative effort with Nashville’s top country musicians, this album is already proving to be one of the most anticipated albums of the year. This collaborative effort pushes the boundaries, and follows a trend of forging rock and roll and country music in a new direction. The Doobie Brothers consider their music American Rock, and I wholeheartedly agree.
As day ten of The Great New York State Fair rolled in, it was destined to be a huge day. Skies were blue, temperatures perfect, and the day had a line up that made country music fans salivate…in fact it was the only day the grandstands had sold out with more than 17,000 fans anticipating a night they won’t forget. It was time for the “Burn It Down” tour to take center stage and you could already feel the heat.
Jason Aldean – Great NY State Fair Grandstands
Day 10-
Uncle Kracker –Setting out a bit early to enjoy the day with my son and his friends, it was a godsend that we did as we got stuck in the hour-long traffic on 690 coming in to the Fair. My regular exit, Exit 7, had already been closed and parking was being diverted to the Exit 6 Orange Parking Lot. Getting nervous that I would miss the opportunity to photograph Uncle Kracker (as media is only allowed the first three songs generally), I stayed calm and snaked my way around the hundreds of cars to the far back parking areas. Seeing that the window of time was diminishing, I began to panic. All I can say at this point was THANK YOU PARKING ATTENDANT that allowed me to make my own parking space that day so that I could catch the bus to the front gate. I literally made it with less than two minutes to spare. I didn’t even care that my son his friends never noted where we parked so that later in the evening when we left it would take us a half hour to find the car. All was good. I made it on time.
As I approached Chevy Court and as Uncle Kracker (real name Matt Shafer) took the stage, I noted a standing room only crowd. It was one of the largest afternoon crowds I had seen to date. Didn’t surprise me though as Uncle Kracker brings such an eclectic mix of music to his fans. His distinctive sound; raspy & sexy, lends itself perfrectly to a mix of country, rap, rock, and hip hop. Now with five albums under his belt and collaborations with such stars as Kid Rock and Kenney Chesney, it’s hard to believe that he began all those years ago as a DJ with his brother. He is an accomplished songwriter, performer, and his rapport with the crowd was entertaining as he bantered back and forth. Notable (and favorite) moments of the show had to include his mash-up of Steve Miller’s “Joker” into Jim Croce’s song “Bad, Bad, Leroy Brown”, and his remake of “Drift Away” originally by Dobie Gray. His spin brought the crowd to their feet and a smile to their faces. In fact all of his songs tend to be upbeat and positive. Closing with his songs “Smile” and “All Summer Long” (co-written and recorded by friend, Kid Rock), you couldn’t help leaving Chevy Court in a good mood ready to tackle the crowds of the day.
Set List: Heaven > Saturday Night > Good To Be Me > Little While > Better Days > Blue Skies > Follow Me > Stranger >Got That Thing/Leroy Brown > Sun Goes Down > Happy > Disasters > Drift > Smile > All Summer Long
On this beautiful day as one meandered around the Fair you couldn’t help feeling like a small fish in a big sea. The crowds were massive. On Day 10, 120,617 individuals made their way through the gates breaking all previous records held for 25 years. In fact, on this day, the statistics show that the Great NY State Fair was the place to be.
Paid Parking Number – 23,010 which is the most the parking supervisor can recall in his more than a quarter century at the fair
Attendance for sold out Jason Aldean/Florida Georgia Line/Tyler Farr show : 17,050
$1 baked potatoes sold: 4,753
25 cent milk tickets sold 34,510
Gallons of chocolate milk sold at Rainbow Bar 1,508 (sold out by 8:30pm)
Number of Twinx (Twix bar in a Twinkie wrapped in bacon and deep-fried with a sprinkling of powdered sugar) sold at the Fried Specialties two booths: 1,140 about double any other day, says owner Jim Hasbrouck
Number of cups of beer and soda sold at the grandstand Saturday night approximately 18,500
Number of rides taken on the Wade Shows Midway 122,781
As I made my way through the sea of people towards the Grandstands it seemed that the wave of people would never end as they entered in the pre-requisite dress code of cowboy boots, cowboy hats, and either red white and blue or camouflage attire. It was proof that the Mason Dixon Line no longer exists and all things country are embraced right here in Central NY.
Tyler Farr– First up was Tyler Farr, one of country music’s newest and most promising acts of 2014. Being the second time I covered one of his shows, I couldn’t wait to see him and his awesome band perform once again. Just love taking photos of Gary, his guitar player who sports one of the greatest Mohawks out there. The one thing that stands out about Tyler Farr is his love of his audience. NYS Music unfortunately couldn’t coordinate our anticipated interview with Tyler for this show/article due to his busy schedule, but had we been able to I was planning to award him my official “Audience Appreciation” award. The first of its kind, and one that is not given out to just anyone. The first time I covered a Tyler Farr show was at the Taste of Country Festival down at Hunter Mountain in the Catskills. For the entire weekend, one young man in the audience wore a turkey decoy on his head. You couldn’t help but notice, you couldn’t help but admire his audacity, and you couldn’t help but wonder about him. I can’t tell you how many artists came out to perform on Friday and Saturday that had to have seen him. Then on Sunday when Tyler came out, he immediately called out the dude and told him “he was his new best friend”. Those things resonate with me as a journalist. I look to capture the interaction between the performer and audience and feed off of that energy for photos and my reviews. It was duly noted.
Fast forward now to this show, and once again Tyler Farr proved to me he’s all about his audience as he came right out into the crowd to perform amongst them, bringing the reason he’s where he is, down to earth again, with his fans. Not only did he bring it down to this fans, he gave a shout out to the sound and stage crew that work tirelessly during shows to make it all happen seamlessly. This young man does not put himself up on pedestals, so for this very reason I will place you up on one as a star. Humility is a wonderful character trait, and remembering what it’s all about in the fast paced music business is difficult to do. He is one individual you will hear more about as time goes on. His musical abilities, songwriting capabilities, and stage presence will be making this new artist one of country music’s future stars. I know he’s one of mine.
Florida Georgia Line– To say I was excited about the next two acts was an understatement. This would be the first time I had the opportunity to cover a Florida Georgia Line show. Well, they certainly lived up to my expectations. These two young men are two of the most energetic performers out there. They came out with a bang, singing, dancing, sending the crowd into a frenzy. If you were in the pit this evening, there is no doubt that you got to shake hands with one if not both as they did everything they could to reach out to everyone. I was totally impressed by them. True class act. Working the stage every minute of every song, they belted out favorites “Round Here”, “Shine On”, “This Is How We Roll”, Dirt”, and “Cruise” to name only a few on their set list. But it wasn’t until they began “Party People” that they took the crowd over the top as the crowd joined Tyler & Brian singing, cheering, and screaming alongside them and the band. High energy doesn’t begin to describe the electricity you felt from the performance. Power surge was more like it.
Jason Aldean – Jason Aldean’s Burn It Down Tour of 2014 has been sold out from coast to coast. With fire spewing all around him, Jason enters the stage, slowly rising on a platform from down below. As the form of the shadow appears with his cowboy hat tucked down over his eyes amidst the explosions and flames, it was apparent why this show has been deemed as one of the best tours of the year. This superstar sure knows how to make an entrance. For Jason Aldean, it’s not just all show, he can back this pomp and circumstance up with the music and the talents needed to classify him as one of today’s country superstars. With twelve number one hits, record selling albums, numerous nominations and awards from American Music Awards, Billboard, Country Music Association, Country Music Television Awards, Academy of Country Music, Teen Choice Awards, People’s Choice Awards, and The Grammy’s, Jason Aldean has made his mark on Nashville, and in the record books as a country legend.
With his new album Old Boots, New Dirt right on the verge of release, it’s already hitting the charts with it’s first released number one single “Burnin It Down”. With a few more sneak peeks being released such as “Two Night Town,” “Sweet Little Something” and “Gonna Know We Were Here”, it’s only a matter of time that the number one hits and awards blazing their way through the charts for this album as well.
Days 7 and 8 brought a smorgasbord of musical sounds to The Great NY State Fair this year. Although country music dominated the lineup these two days, rock and roll greats threw the one two punch needed to turn up the volume at the Grandstands.
Day 7
Michael Ray – As the day of the show approached, Carrie Underwood ticket holders were still uncertain of the upcoming opening act for the evening. As they arrived, they soon learned they would be greeted by newcomer Michael Ray, winner of the reality program “The Next”. The program, which aired on the CW network was a different type of reality program. This program was designed to help contestants, who are already established musical acts and bring to the table a built-in fan base, move on to the next level in their careers. Each contestant was mentored by four professionals in the business; Gloria Estefan, Joe Jonas, John Rich, or Nelly. They then would compete to take their talents to the next level eliminating those until a victor was crowned. Mentored by John Rich of Big & Rich, it is apparent as he takes the stage why Michael Ray walked away victorious. He certainly nailed it with a few of his own songs and covers such as Friends in Low Places (Garth Brooks) and Mary Jane’s Last Dance (Tom Petty). It is always refreshing to see artists with vocal diversity be able to nail covers as different as these artists are. To me it shows their true vocal talents. He was right at home up there and quickly won over the crowd like a pro. Unbeknownst to the audience at the time, the stage has been home to him since he was a toddler joining his musical family up there with his Kermit the Frog guitar. This cutie won over the audience this night, implanted his name in their minds, and setting the stage (as if he needed to) for the superstar, Carrie Underwood. Although he may have been an unknown name upon arrival, he certainly wasn’t by the time he departed.
Carrie Underwood –
Sometimes performers are just born to be superstars. Walking away with the 2005 title of American Idol, it didn’t take Carrie long to hit the road with her first hit album Some Hearts that included number one singles such as “Jesus Take The Wheel” and “Before He Cheats”. Now a seasoned veteran with five studio albums under her belt, this petite superstar’s voice just blows you away with its strength and power. As she took the stage at the Grandstands, she certainly didn’t disappoint fans as she belted out hit after hit, from a catalog a mile long of music she’s recorded over the last nine years. In addition to her long list of hits, she also is extremely decorated with awards including six Grammy Awards, sixteen Billboard Music Awards, eleven Academy of Country Music Awards and seven American Music Awards, along with being nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song. We recently learned that one of these tunes “Two Black Cadillacs” will even be made into a television show. She has been the face of numerous product endorsements, and very active in working together with several non-profit agencies to bring awareness to their causes. All of this at the young age of 31. Amazing! Recently in the news just days after her NY State Fair performance, she shared with her fans her exciting announcement that she and husband, Mike Fisher (Nashville Predators hockey star), are expecting their first child. This amazing young woman will be an amazing mother and we couldn’t be happier for Carrie and Mike and send them all the best as they begin their family.
Set List: Good Girl > Undo It > Wasted > See You Again > Two Black Cadillacs > Temporary Home > Last Name > Jesus Take The Wheel >We’re Young and Beautiful > Cowboy Casanova > So Small > One Way Ticket > Some Hearts > I Told You So > Flat on the Floor > All – American Girl > Leave Love Alone > Cupid’s Got a Shotgun > Blown Away > Encore – Paradise City > Before He Cheats
Day 8
Angie Johnson –
Angie Johnson was the perfect choice to begin the salute to Veterans on Veterans Day at the Fair. Angie, herself a veteran serving in the US Air Force and currently a Missouri National Guard member, understands the trials and tribulations our military experience and how to bolster their spirits and give some peace and joy to them through her music. Donning the greatest red pumps (I so want a pair of those), they were the appropriate choice as she and her band heated up the crowd with each song they sang. One memorable tune was called “A Girl That No One Knew” which was co-written by Buffalo’s own Johnny Rzneik from the Goo Goo Dolls, showcased her talent and told her story. As most country musicians do, she writes about her life, her experiences, and her thoughts. This song was about her struggles to being discovered and given a chance as she paid her dues night after night in smokey bars. Almost giving up her dream on several occasions, the music business keeps pulling her back each time she thinks it’s over. Her talent is apparent despite her difficult struggles. Her song, Swagger, co-written with Phoenix Mendoza, is verification that this girl has talent, stage presence, and just plain rocks. And my admiration has nothing to do with her being a fellow St. Louis Cardinals fan, I swear.
I wonder if Mike Eli and James Young ever foresaw their huge successful career as they sat in their dorm room at the University of North Texas playing guitar and singing. These two later joined by Chris Thompson and Jon Jones are now known as the Eli Young Band. With five studio albums under their belt, several number one songs, and a truckload full of nominations and awards (2011 ACM Song of the Year/Music Row Awards Breakthrough Artist), these four young men really can rock a crowd and set the stage on fire. One of my favorites on my play list they are extremely talented musicians who can write and play like no other. I found it interesting how they continued to refer to themselves as a “garage band”. You know what I think? I think it’s the roots of this “garage band” that gives them their charm. They haven’t lost sight of entertaining their crowds, which I must say was packed to the gills at Chevy Court, and their love of the roots in country rock was apparent in their music and especially their encore of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Gimme Three Steps”. Anyone that can rock out to their music and embrace their roots in southern country rock has my adoration forever.
Set List: Revelations > 10,000 Towns > Skeletons > Love Songs > Dust > Prayer For The Road > Drunk Last Night > Even If It Breaks Your Heart > When It Rains > Oklahoma Girl > Guinevere > Small Town Kid > Crazy Girl > Encore – Gimme Three Steps
Cheap Trick exploded onto the scene back in the late 1970’s carving out a niche with their hits and their electric live performances. However their beginning here in the states experienced a slow start. By 1978, Cheap Trick had released three albums here in the US to a luke warm reception. Surprising to know as the songs were some of today’s greatest rock and roll songs of the era, i.e.”I Want You to Want Me” and “Clock Strikes Ten”. It wasn’t until the songs hit the big time in Japan and Cheap Trick recorded their live album in Budokan, that the US label took notice and re-released here. They were finally recognized at that point and their American audiences couldn’t get enough of them. Hailing from the Rockford, IL area, they even designated April 1st as “Cheap Trick Day” in the state; no joke. Still as entertaining today as they were back in the 70’s and 80’s with their flamboyant costumes, and amazing stage presence, it certainly understandable how this group has been recognized as one of VH1’s 100 Greatest Artsist of Hard Rock.
When someone asks me to list my favorite bands, Journey never fails to make my top ten list. Growing up in the 1980’s Journey was a part of everyone’s album, cassette, and dare I say without aging myself, 8-track collection. Their tunes were a staple then and still today, as you hear covers of some of their most popular songs played by national and local bands alike. Their popularity has not waned over the years. In fact, it’s refreshing to see younger generations appreciate their style of rock and roll. They were my first live show back in 1981 at the Syracuse Carrier Dome with their Open Arms tour, and I can recall it as though it was just yesterday. There was something about rock and roll performances in the 1960’s, ’70s and ’80s that focused on lyrics and musical composition. With guitar, drums, and bass solos taking center stage, it was more than just a show, it was a gift to the audiences. The band has evolved over the year with many changes,i.e. solo careers, collaborations with others, band changes etc. however here we are more than 30 years later and they still rock the crowd like they did all those years ago. As they took the stage at the Grandstands, it was apparent that the energy you felt back then was still there, and for those just experiencing their first Journey concert, something that will continue with a new generation of fans with Open Arms.
As days seven and eight wound down, I reflected on how amazing the Great NY State Fair had been so far. As I covered the shows and events over the course of these several days, I was able to take some time in between to really explore the different exhibits in the buildings, side entertainment, rides, and foods that make our fair so special. I highly recommend to families to actually come more than one day, so that they don’t feel rushed. By taking my time and exploring the buildings, seeing the parade more than one time, and taking time to taste some of what is offered, I felt as though I experienced the State Fair more than I ever had before.
Black Label Society is currently touring in support of their latest album Catacombs of the Black Vatican. This tour will mark the first time since 2006 that the band has played in Syracuse. Hatebreed, unleashed their latest album The Divinity of Purpose last year and came to Syracuse in February of 2013. Butcher Babies, who toured with Black Label Society earlier this spring, will be releasing a covers EP entitled Uncovered, on Sept. 30.
Tickets for the F-Shed Show can be purchased here, this Friday Sept. 19 at 10AM.
Tour Dates:
12/28 — Spokane, Wash. — Knitting Factory
12/29 — Vancouver, British Columbia — The Commodore Ballroom
12/30 — Kelowna, British Columbia — Kelowna Community Theatre
12/31 — Calgary, Alberta — Flames Central
1/2 — Edmonton, Alberta — Shaw Conference Centre
1/3 — Regina, Saskatchewan — Conexus Arts Centre
1/4 — Winnipeg, Manitoba — The Burton Cummings Theatre
1/5 — Thunder Bay, Ontario — Thunder Bay Community Auditorium
1/7 — London, Ontario — London Music Hall
1/8 — Toronto, Ontario — Kool Haus (The Guvernment)
1/9 — Montreal, Quebec — Le Métropolis de Montréal
1/10 — Syracuse, N.Y. — F SHED at The Market
1/12 — Reading, Pa. — Reverb
1/13 — Portland, Maine — State Theatre, Portland, Maine
1/14 — Hartford, Conn. — The Webster
1/16 — Royal Oak, Mich. — Royal Oak Music Theatre
1/17 — Columbus, Ohio — LC Pavilion
1/18 — Charlotte, N.C. – The Fillmore Charlotte
1/20 — Oklahoma City, Okla. — Diamond Ballroom
1/21 — Kansas City, Mo. — Arvest Bank Theater At the Midland
Since opening their doors at Destiny USA in Syracuse, NY, Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill has consistently brought the party to town. This Saturday, September 20th, at 10pm, join in welcoming Eric Paslay, one country music’s newest favorites to town.
Eric Paslay
Eric Paslay best known for his current hits “Song About A Girl” and “Friday Night”, is a multi-talented performer who not only plays but is one of Nashville’s most talented songwriters, co-penning hits such as “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” recorded by Jake Owens, “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” recorded by Eli Young Band, and Love & Theft’s “Angel Eyes”.
This young man standing 6’4″ not only makes a presence physically on stage, but he also brings the party and gets the crowd a rocking. will be there to cover and bring you highlights from the evening. Show starts at 9pm with opening act Hootn’ Anges, immediately followed by Eric. Advanced tickets can be purchased online or at the door the evening of.
