Assembly of Dust heads out on a four show trek from Connecticut to Western New York shortly before Thanksgiving and have a new live release in the works.
The unique sound of Assembly of Dust draws on influences including Neil Young, The Band, Traffic and other 70s rock acts, forming an acoustic panoply with deep lyrics, catchy hooks with a groove to the sound. USA Today has said Assembly of Dust has what it takes to “dazzle the Alt-Country universe,” but seeing the live performance is what makes AOD stand out among the folk/Americana acts of today.
Featuring Reid Genauer (vocals, guitar), Adam Terrell (lead guitar, vocals), John Leccese (bass, vocals), Jason Crosby (keys, violin, vocals) and Dave Diamond (drums, vocals), the short tour begins on Thursday, November 19 at Fairfield Theatre Company in Fairfield, CT and continues on Friday November 20 at The Westcott Theater in Syracuse, NY, Saturday November 21 at Flour City Station in Rochester, NY and wraps up Sunday November 22 at The Waiting Room in Buffalo, NY. For more info, visit AODust.com.
Assembly of Dust is also in the process of releasing a digital download of their December 12, 2014 Portland, OR show at Mississippi Studios. The show features special guest, Mark Karan of RatDog, adding a great dynamic to the AOD sound.
In January, forces collide when members of Assembly of Dust, Strangefolk and God Street Wine unite for Assembly of Strange Wine at The Capitol Theatre in Portchester, NY on January 15 and on January 16 at The Paradise in Boston. Each show will feature separate sets from each band with a mash up set at the end of the show. Tickets are on sale now.
Space Carnival, a fourtet founded in 2013, lit the crowd on fire with a touch of psychedelic and jamtastic euphoria Monday, November 9 at Black Oak Tavern in Oneonta. They implemented blends of funky and high spirited progressive rock which allowed the beings of Oneonta to release their souls into the fabrics of our universe. The groove had everyone get down as they combined fresh sounds along with original beats which created a positive atmosphere, making everyone look forward to their sweet return.
If music were an entity capable of wrapping listeners in the most sincere embrace, everyone would be wholeheartedly hugged by Alison and Zoë Mullan-Stout’s performance at the Merrifield House in Scipio, NY on Saturday, November 7. The sister songwriters, whose kind smiles added to the pleasant atmosphere, exuded playful yet mature dispositions perfectly suited to this intimate, historic venue.
Darkness blanketed the chilly fall evening as attendees filtered into the venue through the side patio, immediately greeted by the homeowners. The space functions as part of the Concerts in Your Home establishment where homeowners offer their dwelling for performances. The concert took place in an add-on at the rear of the cobblestone house where an old barn once stood. A row of large windows against the back wall, each sill embellished with an assortment of small trinkets, provided an open yet homey feel to the rectangular event space. Soft ambient lighting accented by candlelight filled the whitewashed room with warmth. A hodgepodge assortment of foldable chairs, rocking chairs and a small couch provided an eclectic seating arrangement.
Alison and Zoë shared joint custody of a guitar, banjo and ukulele to backup their vocals, often harmonizing to effortlessly create a nuanced, balanced sound laced with subtle intricacies between their distinct voices. Zoë’s delicate vocals offset Alison’s more mature, soprano soul. A quieter demeanor paralleled Zoë’s softer vocals where Alison’s tenacity and sly witticisms between and during songs mirrored her strong singing style. Every song carried a story behind it, which one sister would introduce while delicately strumming in the background before diving in.
Their song “Lost in the Woods,” inspired by true events, recounts a time Zoë found herself in unfamiliar surroundings. Rather than allowing the circumstance to invoke a sense of discomfort or fear, the song embraces the predicament, honoring an appreciation for the forest habitat. Midway through the number, Alison playfully prompted the crowd suggesting, “This is the part where you guys make animal noises.” A response came in the form of howls, growls, bird chirps and fits of giggling as the audience reveled in making the song one-of-a-kind.
“Dirt” described a longing to be loved by a girl in the same way she tends so intimately to her garden. The first utterance of the line “I wish she’d treat me like dirt,” induced laughter from the crowd before the following lines provided clarifying context: “I wish she’d rub me off her hands on the back of her skirt/Keep diggin’ on me til her back hurts/Roll around in me/Dissolve all boundaries.” In that scenario, who wouldn’t want to be treated like dirt?
The mood shifted for a more solemn cover of Emmylou Harris’ “Deeper Well” before Alison and Zoë offered a few more originals including “This Song I Wrote.” An Alison original, the song was crafted with inspiration from two separate couples whose relationships were salvaged in part by music. Beautifully poetic, the song speaks of rekindled love with the line, “We got drunk on honesty and fell back towards each other/Remembering all the ways we fell in love in the first place.”
During set break, everyone filtered into the kitchen to enjoy hot tea from a wide selection of mugs and tea varieties already set out for guests to choose from. Homemade brownies rested provokingly on the round kitchen table. Guests mingled with the musicians and homeowners, enjoying friendly conversation. Curious adventurers were allowed to roam about the first floor, and some were shown the well-kept guest bedrooms on the second floor. The Abraham Lincoln themed bedroom featured a well stocked bookcase crammed with the chronicles of his life history. A bust of the former president and a replica of his trademark top hat governed the room’s affairs from the fireplace mantle.
Guests filtered back into their seats to hear a few more tunes, with a guest appearance by Eric Dwyre playing the ukulele and singing soulfully. The evening came to a close with the sisters performing the title track off their first EP titled “Home Is…” Souls soothed by the tender thought provoking songs of the sister songwriters, guests sheltered in the welcoming environment were made even more at home with Alison and Zoë’s shining orchestration.
Guitarist Stephane Wrembel reached some level of notoriety when he was the man behind Woody Allen’s Gypsy-jazz-inspired film Sweet and Lowdown. He has gone on to do a few more soundtracks for Allen, as well as others. It is easy to see why he makes such a good choice for matching music to movies. His compositions, though completely instrumental, tell vivid stories all on their own.
Some artists write lyrics to tell their stories. Some leave their song’s meanings up to the interpretation of the listener. But for Wrembel, each of his compositions had a specific inspiration that he communicated in detail to the audience. The evening started, however, with a meditation on the Universe. Before the band got started, Wrembel wanted everyone to have a clear mind. To arrive at that point we followed his train of thought, pondering how the Universe came to be, and what was there before. ‘Nothing’ is just a concept, so there must have been something. We are a part of the everything forever. With that out of the way, the dining and drinking crowd was primed for Wrembel and his band: Kells Nollenberger on double bass, Thor Jensen on guitar, and drummer Nick Anderson.
Since they were recording the evening (and the evening prior) for a possible future live release, he warned, “Everything can be held against you.” This night they concentrated on material from his two most recent albums Origins and Dreamers of Dreams. The band took the crowd on a journey. A journey around the world, and beyond, through the eyes, mind and sounds of Stephane Wrembel. They started in the desert of the American Southwest with “Devices from the Desert,” a place they would return to later on with “Minuit Aux Batignolles” and second set opener “Let There Be Light.” Wrembel “loves the desert.”
But every destination wasn’t a sun-drenched sand dune. “Tsunami” brought us to a Wrembel-envisioned version of Japan inspired by the movies of Kurosawa. A pleasant airy tune, that was disrupted by a violent second half, representing the tsunami that hit the area of more recent times. “Road to Jos” told of the time the band traveled to Nigeria and had a military transport across the beautiful but war-ridden countryside between gigs. “Lasco” took a trip to one of the oldest caves in France, in which Wrembel pondered if people didn’t actually live there, but in fact just entered for ritual singing. “Orion” finally lifted us from our world and into the cosmos, back where the evening began. He started with the explanations, and the music then captured the scene perfectly. Musically, the band was top-notch. Wrembel’s solos were mystifying. In the moments when the band, Anderson on drums in particular, clicked together with him, the peaks were astounding.
Later in the evening, they played “Big Brother” and “Bistro Fava” from Woody Allen’s Vikki Cristina Barcelonaand Midnight in Paris, respectively. Wrembel told a story of how he was cast in a small role for one of the films, but that the one scene he was in got cut. So he joked, if Woody played a song while they were recording this album tonight, maybe he would cut it.
As the dust settles and we begin to experience a last surge of heat for the season during this balmy November, it seems like the perfect time to reflect back and savor the amazing week of events, shows, and spectacular activities and eats offered this year at the 2015 Great NY State Fair. After all, the week immediately preceding is generally so busy with back to school running around, Labor Day celebrations, etc… you don’t really get an opportunity to sit down and digest what an amazing week (twelve days really) we really have right here in New York State. After all, it was voted the fifth best State Fair in the nation by USA Today in 2015. Nothing to sneeze at. We also can bolster that we hold the prize and honor of being the first State Fair ever. So take that Minnesota. Wait till next year, you’ll be looking up to us as we sit at number one.
Breaking records on Day One with more than 16,042 above last years opening day, it was a great start for the Fair, as crowds visited throughout the twelve day event. With gorgeous weather, stellar performers scheduled each day, and special $3 Thursdays, and $1 Labor Day, attendees were able to take advantage of the fun at an affordable family price. Day One’s attendance record could possibly be attributed to the first of only a few final Grandstand shows scheduled. With the new Lakeview Amphitheater opening across the street, it’s exciting to be able to offer patrons the best in the business with state of the art equipment once again in this region. But, it also was bittersweet to be part of the final days at this venue before it’s demolition this year.
Over the thirty eight years the Grandstands at The Great New York State Fair hosted shows to fair goers. Memorable acts such Whitney Houston, Garth Brooks, Frank Sinatra, Neil Young, James Taylor, Ted Nugent, Rihanna, Brittney Spears, ZZ Top, Justin Bieber, Alicia Keys, and so many others graced the stage and filled the seats bringing Central New Yorkers some of the greatest names in the business while Chevy Court attendees were treated to free shows. Over the years the tide turned and the free concerts became the place to be.
As larger names were brought in to Chevy Court, records began to be set, with this years Steve Miller Band hailing the largest crowd ever at Chevy Court with approximately 36,900 attendees. Nonetheless, all good things do come to an end, while some have bright new beginnings. Next year fair goers will sadly reminisce about those days at the Grandstands, but will return to a brand new Chevy Court as national acts will once again treat those patrons to free entertainment with state of the art equipment and stage.
So as we reflect back on the final shows at The Grandstands this year, it was only fitting that country favorites Eric Church and Hank Williams Jr. held the last hooray and gave it a final farewell, fittingly deserved of those thirty eight years. The throw back ticket pricing for all acts including legendary Patti LaBelle and comedian Jim Gaffigan, and was a proper thank you to all attendees as they enjoyed the final moments at was once Central New York’s summer venue place to be.
Eric Church started the party off right with special guests Cadillac Three on Day One. This group of long haired rowdy boys, set the bar high with their country rock and roll and introduced those newcomers to their Cadillac Three style of in your face hard core rock with an edge of country thrown in. Eric Church, well of course this handsome mysterious country star shone bright as he filled to near capacity once again a venue paying homage to those before him. Playing hits such as “Cold One,” “Talladega,” “Give Me Back My Hometown,” “Drink In My Hand,” “Smoke A Little Smoke,” and of course the hot and steamy song, “Like A Wrecking Ball.” Yep, this down home country boy did this crowd proud and started this party off right.
Hank Williams Jr. brought his rowdy friends to the Grandstands on day four of the fair and kicked up some some dust with his Honky-Tonk hits. The Louisiana born country star brought some of his most well-known songs such as Neil Young’s “Are You Ready for the Country,” “All My Rowdy Friends,” “The Blues Man,” “There’s a Tear in My Beer,” and “A Country Boy Can Survive.” The audience was ecstatic to have Hank visit Syracuse, and Hank was equally happy to be performing to grateful audience. Among the crowd favorites in the set, was an impressive collection of his father’s songs including “Move It On Over,” “Kaw-Liga,” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart.” Adding even more intensity to the show, were a few unforgettable mash-ups, the greatest one covering “Outlaw Women” > “Dinosaur” > “There’s A Tear In My Beer” > “All My Rowdy Friends Have Settled Down” > “Good Ol’ Boys” > “I Walk The Line.” Of course, the evening would not have been concluded without an epic sing-a-long version of “Family Tradition.”
While Hank was bringing down the house over at the Grandstands, Chevy Court had a few shows to bring in the crowds themselves on Day Four. Up first for the 2p.m. show was country favorites The Swon Brothers.
The Swon Brothers are perhaps known by most as the lovable country brothers on season four of The Voice. On team Blake, these two siblings made their way to third that season, but are number one with all their country fans. Singing their hits “Later On” and “Pray for You,” Colton and Zach revved up the crowd and had them singing along in no time. In fact, the crowd even became part of the show with a sound of cheers as to which brother they liked best. Like a good mother always says, I love you both the same.
As the evening began to roll around Chevy Court was filling up with eager fans awaiting the amazing Nate Ruess. Best know perhaps as lead singer of the indie group Fun, it seems like every song he touches becomes a hit.
With his new band the Romantics, their set list was ridden with hits from both his bands Format and Fun with songs “Oceans” > “We Are Young” > “Some Nights” > “Carry On,” to some songs from his new solo album Grand Romantic (“Great Big Storm” > “You Light My Fire” > “What This World Is Coming To” > “Nothing Without Love” > “Harsh Light” > “Ahha”), and covers (Prince’s, “Let’s Go Crazy”). This amazing musician may be best known for his strong vocals, but don’t count him out as his songwriting abilities are top notch as well. As part of a collaborative effort, Ruess partnered with Pink in 2014 on the number one billboard song “Just Give Me A Reason” which was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 2014. Yes, the NY State Fair surely brought in the big guns on day four, for sure.
On Tuesday, Day Five, Chevy Court once again welcomed Bowzer’s Rock & Roll Party back to rock out the afternoon crowd. This lovable 50’s icon, known to most as a member of the popular 50’s Doo Wap group, Sha Na Na, has entertained us with not only his humor and personable demeanor, but his musical talents for more years. Jon Baumann, his real name, is a native of Brooklyn, New York and studied classical music at Juilliard at a very early age, and whether it was playing Mozart or with Sha Na Na, his mothers greatest moment was seeing her son at Carnegie Hall.
One Day Six, Chevy Court was packed with fans awaiting their favorite new 2015’s ACM New Artist of the Year, Cole Swindell. With such an amazing group of new artists this year to be nominated, what was it about Cole Swindell that stood out above the rest? One quickly learned it was his stage presence. He had the ability to draw an audience in like no other. Perhaps it was the eye contact, the waves, or the pointing to individuals that made you feel like he was singing right to you.
An accomplished songwriter way before releasing his self titled debut album, Cole Swindell, Cole was no stranger to the music business. Penning hits for other country artists such as “Roller Coast,” “Get Me Some of That,” and “This Is How We Roll,” to name only a few, Swindell had made his mark in country music and touching souls of those his words spoke to. Singing his hits “Chillin It” > “Ain’t Worth The Whiskey” > “Hope You Get Lonely Tonight” > “Let Me See Ya Girl,” he had this crowd in the palm of his hand. With a mischievous smile and a country charm, this down home country boy was definitely a crowd favorite at the Fair this year.
On Tuesday, September 6th, Day Six, country was once again represented by country favorite Joe Nichols at Chevy Court. Joe’s smooth country sound is clearly what some critics consider “traditional country” music and not the new “Bro Country.” His vocal comments against the turn of the tide has not gone unheard by many in the business and he even joked about it this year at the Fair. Singing Sir Mixx A Lot’s, “I Like Big Butts,” as only Joe could, the audience loved his countries version of rap as it confirmed why he is best suited for the country genre.
On Wednesday, September 7th, Day Seven of the Fair, Snoop Dogg was scheduled to perform but was forced to cancel the night before. To everyone’s surprise, the fair was able to bring in rapper Nas as Snoop’s replacement. The fair on Wednesday didn’t seem as packed as it had been the last week but that didn’t stop an estimated 30,000 people from coming to Chevy Court.
On Thursday, Day Eight, R&B superstar Jason Derulo performed for a packed crowd at Chevy Court. Derulo put on an excellent performance that included a backing band and a group of dancers. For a night that featured two other major artists at the Grandstand and the new Lakeview Amphitheater, Jason Derulo filled Chevy Court with no sign of any competition. As someone who just played at the fair last year, Jason Derulo drew an estimated 25,000 screaming teenage girls.
On Saturday, Day Ten, Chevy Court welcomed home many local talented artists right from our own back yard. At the 2pm Chevy Court Show, crowds welcomed Amanda Lee Peers; Syracuse native, Josh Batstone; and season eight’s winner of The Vocie, Sawyer Fredericks. It was heartwarming to be able to welcome all our hometown heroes to the stage and celebrate their music.
The 8pm show on Day Ten welcomed Motown greats, The Jacksons. Consisting of original members, Jackie, Tito, and Marlon Jackson, the crowd went wild as they danced and sang along with hits “Can You Feel It,” “Rock With You,” “2300 Jackson Street,” “ABC,” “Dancing Machine, ” Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” and many, many more.
It’s hard to believe that this marks their 50th anniversary tour, but still today fans went crazy, dressed in costume, and got up on their feet to sing and dance along to all their favorites. For me, it was a walk down memory lane watching video clips of live shows and interviews and clips of their Saturday morning cartoon that I watched so many years ago. A fun evening of music, those guys still have the moves for sure.
The Steve Miller Band came to the Great New York State Fair on the second to last night and brought along a record 37,000+ (the largest crowd to date). As the quintet hammered down on Syracuse with their hits from the last five decades, the performance got better as the crowd sang louder to each song. Opening the show with “Jungle Love,” gave a great representation of the fair with how all of the fun, food, crafts, and entertainment can sometimes feel overwhelming. The show included major plays consisting of “Take The Money,” “Shubada du ma ma,” “The Joker,” “Fly Like and Eagle,” and “Keep On Rockin’ Me.” Little Walters’ own “Blues With a Feeling” made an appearance during the show and despite Millers’ tender age of 71, he showed some animation during a rendition of “Loving Cup.” Before the crowd knew it, the enhanced encore had arrived with the group playing “The Stake,” a very bouncy “Swingtown,” and ending the high ride with extended “Jet Airliner.”
As the final day approached, I knew that an early arrival was mandatory to secure my seat amidst the Millennium generation that was sure to have already staked out the best seats available awaiting teen heartthrob, Nick Jonas. Arriving at 11 a.m. I realized that I was in for the longest day ahead, on what was to prove to be the hottest day of the fair. Surprisingly enough, the crowd of Nick Jonas fans remained upbeat with little to no complaints, and by midday the NY State Fair staff began handing out free waters to those who refused to budge from their seats, lest give up the prime real estate while in absence. The refreshing donation hit the spot and spoke volumes on what a great event and what great folks work to bring this event to everyone.
As the time neared and Nick Jonas came out to the stage, he set right out playing his number one song “Chains” following it up “Numb” > “Levels” > “Wilderness” > “Good Thing” > “I Want You” > “Santa Barbara” > “Under You” > “Roses” > “Teacher” > “Take Over” and for an encore, “Jealous.” How he managed to wear that jacket through half the show was beyond me as I was literally melting into my seat. Jonas’ first solo tour, and one of the first times out by himself, it was a great ending to the Fair, and great beginning for his new upcoming tour to get his footing on stage with his ultra hip band.
Okay, so we’re number five in the top ten best state fairs in the nation. Perhaps you can see why this twelve day event becomes the traditional ending to New Yorkers summers’. Whether you come for the rides, the events and competitions, the exhibits and opportunity to buy some Ginsu knives, the food (you know you do), or the music, it proves each year to raise the bar and bring in what fairgoers want. Looking forward to the 2016 Fair, they will once again raise that bar, and hopefully continue to bring in the biggest names in the business to their ultra new and state of the art Chevy Court. I predict that next years shows will exceed this years, they’ll book much quicker than years past, and once again the Great NY State Fair will prove to be the place to be to end our summer on the highest note possible.
Bassist Anders Kjølholm has decided to call it a career after 14 years with his brothers in the Danish psychobilly rock group Volbeat.
The parting so far has been mutual, and with no official word as to why Kjølholm is parting ways with Volbeat, but music skeptics add that Kjølholm may have been forced out from Volbeat.
The parting comes days after Volbeat was accused of stealing the sound and style of the band Life Of Agony, which singer Michael Poulsen denies.
Kjølholm has been with Volbeat from the band’s beginning in 2001. Kjølholm released a brief statement about the parting:
It has been a great experience to be part of the Volbeat family for so long, and I wish Michael, Jon and Rob, everyone involved with the band and of course all the fans, all the best on the continued journey.
Volbeat vocalist Michael Poulsen and drummer Jon Larsen talked about the matter:
Anders has been a loyal friend and bandmate since 2001. We’ve toured most parts of the world and shared experiences that only few bands get to do. We’re very thankful for this and wish Anders all the best in the future.
Volbeat plans to tour relentlessly in 2016 with a brand new sixth studio album in the works. The band debuted a new track from the upcoming album during a live set on Aug. 1 at Tusindarsskoven in Odense, Denmark.
Volbeat frontman Michael Poulsen stated back in May to local Ohio radio station 99.7 The Blitz that he has been writing songs on the road and plans to hit the studio sometime in November. He also stated that the band has rehearsed around five new songs during their soundcheck.
Making its debut at Hulaween was Atlanta based Incendia. Built by Cory Glenn, Incendia started as a backyard project that has blossomed into a tour de force of fire, music, and performance art and has been on a tour of music festivals, Burning Man, and regional burns all over the U.S., including festivals such as Mysteryland and Creatures of the Night. NYSMusic was able to get an exclusive interview with Cory regarding Incendia, it’s origins and future.
Mysteryland
Chris McMullen: How long have you been a burner/going to Burning Man?
Cory Glenn: I’ve been attending burns since 2009, when I stumbled across the incredibly passionate, creative, and resourceful community that is the Georgia burn scene, which is centered around an annual event called Alchemy.
CM: How many Burns have you been to, both main and regional?
CG: I lost count of how many burns I’ve been after around a dozen, but I can definitely remember that I’ve been to Burning Man twice.
CM: What inspired you to start making domes? And add fire to them?
CG: This is definitely a case of the chicken coming before the egg; I discovered our awesome flame effect whilst fooling around with fire in my backyard. Geodesic domes are just a simple, safe, and ultimately aesthetically sound way of framing this fire effect we’ve grown to call ‘fire inversion’. The more I began to work with, and learn about geodesic structures, the more amazed I became at their elegance, symmetry, and geometric majesty. They’re just so damn beautiful to me in their simplicity, and the more I studied them the more layers I found, and potential possibilities to expand and complement their inherent grace kept becoming apparent.
CM: Did you plan on taking Incendia to music festivals? Had you attended music festivals previously?
CG: I definitely expanded Incendia from a small prototype ‘proof of concept’ dome into the larger, more logistically challenging, and time-consuming behemoth it is today with the intention of turning it into a business. Music festivals were, and continue to be, the primary source of revenue for us. We are however endeavoring to expand our services into different markets such as private events, corporate showcases, pop-up restaurants, and the like. I had never really attended for-profit and musically-motivated festivals before, being too focused on large-scale projects within the burn scene. However in 2015 we’ve done close to 15 festivals, ranging from small mom-and-pop bluegrass jams to internationally-renowned events such as Mysteryland and Hulaween, and I’ve lead the build on all but two of them.
CM: What are your thoughts on Hulaween in particular in regards to the crossover of burns and music festivals?
CG: I wouldn’t consider Hulaween to be a crossover between a burn and a music festival in too many ways, as Hulaween does not uphold nor espouse the Ten Principles of Burning Man, which are tenets that play an integral role in creating the unique environment of a burn versus a commercial festival. However, I will say that Hulaween was excellently curated art-wise. Spirit Lake contained a greater density of incredible art projects than I’ve seen at any non-burn event, and definitely reminded me of the experience of wandering the open desert at Burning Man in search of art with which to interact. Furthermore, many of the experiences I witnessed people sharing in and creating together were very reminiscent of those at a burn. Oh, and radical self-expression. Hulaween’s attendees had that in spades, bunch of goofballs… the ultimate campsite contest too, to me that was a great way to encourage teamwork á la the burner principal of communal effort. I guess Hula’s doing more than I realized, I hope they keep it up!
CM: Is this a good thing for the future of Burning Man?
CG: It is no secret that American pop culture and mainstream commercial festivals have seen a greater influence from ‘burner’ culture. Unfortunately I think this is most apparent in the things that these separate entities previously shared; love of music, style and fashion, and technology. Whilst now I see a subtle permeation of burner fashions, musical sub-genres, and gadgetry and art into the greater American consumption machine, what would make me far happier to witness is the adoption of some of the tenets such as leave no trace, decommodification, and civic responsibility.
Is this ‘good’ for Burning Man? Depends on who you ask! Depends on how you define ‘good’! Whom exactly is influencing whom? One of the most striking things that has kept me going back to burns is this intangible and ethereal experience of human connection and personal fulfillment that I get. Imagine summiting Mt. Everest, only instead you’re summiting Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. THAT feeling. Can people reach this state at a commercial music festival? Undoubtedly so, given the right circumstances. Can this euphoric state be recreated in the day-to-day? It’s been a goal of burners everywhere since we started tracking playa dust back into our living rooms years ago. So if the permeation of burner culture into greater society results in this positive influence, then yes, I’d say it’s ‘good’ for Burning Man. If it results in the commercialization, dilution, and bastardization of our culture and it’s values, then no, I’d say it’s not good. Only time will tell.
The New York Times reported that two gunmen attacked the crowd at Eagles Of Death Metal concert in Paris from the balcony using shotguns shooting down at the crowd killing many concert goers. This was one site out of a so far reported seven areas of Paris attacked Friday night.
The country of France is currently under lockdown until further notice. All the borders closed with a curfew on the streets. The first curfew since 1944 during World War II.
All four members of Eagles Of Death Metal have confirmed to have escaped the attack and confirmed to be unharmed.
More updates to come. Prayers to everyone in Paris.
UPDATED 10:53 p.m.
French President François Hollande addresses the media outside the Bataclan. Confirms terrorists who attacked concert have been killed.
UPDATED 10:35 p.m.
Via Slate, an eyewitness account from a concert attendee at the Bataclan to CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, “They were not wearing masks.”
UPDATED 9:49 p.m.
U2 has canceled its scheduled live HBO performance from Paris scheduled November 14. From the U2 website:
As a result of the ongoing state of emergency across France, the U2 Paris concert scheduled for 14th November will not be going ahead as planned. U2 and Live Nation, along with HBO who were due to live broadcast the Saturday concert, are fully resolved to go ahead with this show at an appropriate time.
Speaking from Paris the band said:
“We watched in disbelief and shock at the unfolding events in Paris and our hearts go out to all the victims and their families across the city tonight.
We are devastated at the loss of life at the Eagles of Death Metal concert and our thoughts and prayers are with the band and their fans.
And we hope and pray that all of our fans in Paris are safe.”
UPDATED 9:45 p.m.
The New York Times has reported that Eagles of Death Metal had been performing before a sold out crowd at Paris’ Bataclan for about an hour when three gunmen charged into the venue shooting.
UPDATED 9:07 p.m.
From Billboard:
“The whole band heard the gunshots and went backstage and exited as fast as they could” https://t.co/pBhtt1A3OA
UPDATED 8:54 p.m. The Washington Post is reportingthat they have spoken to the Eagles of Death Metal’s drummer Julian Doro, who confirmed that her son and the rest of the band members are safe. The band members managed to flee the venue as the attacks began, however several crew members remain unaccounted for.
With details still being released every few minutes, dozens of innocent people were killed in Paris including at an Eagles Of Death Metal concert at Bataclan Arena in Paris.
An impressive crowd turned out for All Hallow’s Eve at the Westcott Theater October 30. Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad usually lures a sizable slew of reggae lovers, affording The Simpkin Project an opportunity to bask in the splendor of a well attended venue for the last stop of their east coast debut. Haewa and Ocular Panther appetized the quickly growing crowd with more abstract instrumental compositions.
Ocular Panther, a self proclaimed organic/electro band featuring Jason Gilly (bass), Collin Jones (guitar/synth/samples), and Michael Pantano (guitar), kicked the night off. Despite an optimistic concoction of notes culminating in a highly danceable jam beat, the crowd was not loose enough to dance in response. By the end of their short-lived set, the crowd had already grown to roughly seventy participants.
Rochester band Haewa followed, again utilizing Jones for his guitar work and vocals, plus Brendon Caroselli (drums/percussion), and Ben Chilbert (bass). For Caroselli’s second time playing with the band, he fit into their musical puzzle quite comfortably. Jones’ grungy fashionableness matched his Kurt Kobain-flavored vocals, adding some dimension to their instrumental, at times face melting musical offerings.
The Simpkin Project marked the third band of the evening paying no mind to the looming holiday by sporting a discernible Halloween costume. Phil Simpkin (guitar/vocals), Shawn Taylor (B3 organ/vocals), Sergio Sandoval (percussion) and Jules Luna (guitar/vocals), were joined by Giant Panda members and long time fans of the band, Chris O’Brian (drums) and James Searl (bass). The Simpkin Project’s mild mannered, warm presence conjured that satisfying sensation of joy akin to tearing open a homemade cornbread muffin hot from the oven before slowly savoring each textured, spongy bite.
Their mid-set song, “Everything You Want” professed a deep rooted love. Simpkin sang sweetly, “You are the shelter that protects me from the storm/The vindication for the reason I was born/I want to be everything you are to me/The center of my being.” Such enamor called to mind more than the simple indulgence of nibbling on a plain jane cornbread muffin. The slow-roasted, pan seared passion steaming out of this lyrical love plate was piled high with mashed potatoes, gravy and roast beef (ethically slaughtered of course).
Throughout their set, O’Brian and Searl happily mouthed the lyrics to many of the songs, fully immersed in the experience of playing alongside their musical heroes. Members of The Simpkin Project mirrored their gratitude, announcing towards the end of their performance, “This was a life changing experience, and what it taught us: we’ll be back.”
Giant Panda opened up with Searl soothingly offering the crowd, “This is a group meditation, please enjoy yourself,” following it up after the first song with “The first step to positivity is moving your body,” spoken like a true music yogi. Searl stood front and center, flanked by Dylan Savage (guitar/vocals) and Dan Keller (guitar/vocals), with Chris O’Brian (drums) and Tony Gallicchio (keys) rounding out their sound.
They covered a lot of ground, playing a range of older material from their 2006 debut album titled Slow Down, and mixing in a collection of everything since then including tracks off their May 2015 release Bright Days. Searl, Savage and Keller stood in a row, gatekeepers of reggae revolution, harmonizing before a crowd of mostly humans, mixed in with a few dancing pandas, princesses and superheroes, cuz ya know, Halloween.
As Giant Panda flowed into the marijuana-endorsing number “Mr.Cop,” the crowd dutifully sang along, to the delight of Searl and Savage who exchanged toothy grins as they strummed along. Before the next song, Keller divulged his entertainment from earlier in the day which consisted of flying a stunt kite. This anecdotal story was most certainly not followed by any references to how elevated the kite or any persons involved may or may not have been.
Known for effortlessly blending from one song to the next in a continuous swell of sound, Giant Panda transitioned from “Pockets” to “Healing,” followed by “Steady” and “Move” in a nonstop reggae rumble. Toward the end of the evening Simpkin reemerged as a guest vocalist. Sandoval added his percussive expertise to the high energy “O.K.” with Keller briefly adding some saxophone work to the lively tune. Leaving the audience buzzing with energy, Searl bid them farewell bellowing, “Peace, Panda and good night!”
Albany jam rockers Formula 5 announced Thursday that founding keyboardist Mike McDonald, is departing the group at the end of 2015 for personal reasons, so he can focus his attention toward building his family.
Here is the announcement as posted on their Facebook page:
Hi friends and fans,
We’ve reached a juncture here in Formula 5 camp and it pains us to announce that our own Mike McDonald will be stepping down as a member of Formula 5 at the end of 2015. Mike has been with us since the beginning and has been a big part of what we have built here with our music, business, and community. As a group, we have been discussing this change for some time now and while it is a very emotional and difficult decision for us all, we all support Mike with his decision to step down and wish him luck in his future endeavors. This decision was made on good terms – it was simply a personal decision that had to be made.
One thing we want to assure everyone of is that Formula 5 will continue on. Mike will always be a big part of Formula 5 but his decision was made to allow F5 to continue to grow, and keep making music and bringing joy to people. And that is what he has urged us to do. While bittersweet, we are accepting of the changes and excited to announce that we will welcome a new member and long-time friend Matt Richards to take over keyboards and vocal duties. Matt is an excellent musician that has experience playing with the prog-funk group The Assortment of Crayons and we are excited to see how this new chapter of Formula 5 evolves. We are very grateful to be able to perform music and appreciate everyone’s continued love and support for F5.
McDonald took to the social media site to express his sincere thanks for his time in the band.
It is with a heavy heart that I announce that I will be stepping down as a member of Formula 5. This was not an easy decision and one that I (and the band) struggled with for quite some time now. First off, I want to say that I love music, I love performing, and I love this band. That isn’t going to change. Writing music with these guys, performing live, learning about the business, and traveling around the northeast and meeting some amazing people and musicians has been phenomenal and something that I will be forever be grateful for. The business side of music can be quite grueling and often not even close to profitable – But this band, the music, its members, our fans, and the northeast music community is something very special and has made it all worth it.
The struggle of balancing my family, my “other” full-time career, and the development of this band has become too much for me to commit to the countless hours I believe are necessary to keep pushing Formula 5 upward with the momentum we have seen over the last few years. Despite all this, it would pain me to see this band simply fade away because of my own personal situation changing. This is something that we, as a band, have discussed greatly over the last year or so. While a very difficult decision for me personally, we all have worked too hard to get where we are today and I would hate to see this band and community fade away – that is why I am stepping down.
But Formula 5 is far from done. These guys are my family and I know that they are making better music than ever before and the future looks very, very bright. The band is very excited to announce that a long-time friend and a fantastic keyboard player and musician, Matt Richards will be stepping in as a new member. He has written and performed with The Assortment of Crayons and I truly think he is a fantastic addition to push Formula 5 into its newest chapter.
Change is good. While still a somber situation for me personally, I strongly urge all of you to still support Formula 5 and the great music that they are and will continue to create.
I will be finishing out the rest of the calendar year playing the next 3 shows with Formula 5 – my last show being on December 12th at dinosaur bbq in Troy. If you feel so inclined, come on out and bid farewell to this chapter of F5.
CM: What inspired you to start making domes? And add fire to them?
CM: What are your thoughts on Hulaween in particular in regards to the crossover of burns and music festivals?
