Category: News Desk

Theatre Nocturne: Horror. Melancholy. Metal.

Founded in September 2011, Theatre Nocturne has been a force to be reckoned with in Buffalo’s underground metal scene.

They’re influenced by bands like At the Gates, The Black Dahlia Murder, Dark Tranquillity, and other authorities on dark melancholic riffing; so you know what you’re getting yourself into just a few seconds into your first listen. But they aren’t your typical euro-influenced note fest. Theatre Nocturne proudly stands for horror, melancholy, metal and a dash of teeth grinding death riffing of a style all their own. Having just recently parted ways with vocalist Justin Foley, their lineup is currently comprised of Erik Wagonblott (guitar), Kenny Zotara (guitar), Justin Herzog (bass) and Mike Paquette (drums).

These boys have really raised the bar for other locals pursuing similar sounds in this already prevalent genre, having already shared the stage with bands like Arsis and Skeletonwitch. They’ve also already recorded two EPs, which more than secured their seats among Buffalo’s local metal greats. Anhedonia was recorded in August 2012 and Depictions of Life and Death followed in January 2014. Now, they’re on the hunt for a new vocalist, having just finished recording their first full length with Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY.

The new album is currently untitled and features ten tracks that are said to be, “heavier and more diverse” than anything they’ve written to date. Every song is brand new and is being kept a closely guarded secret, until the band returns to the stage at Stamps Bar in Tonawanda, NY – April 22. It’s been a prosperous and groundbreaking ride for Theatre Nocturne thus far, and with their new vocalist (whoever that turns out to be), they’re bound to keep on dominating Buffalo and beyond for years to come.

You can check out their recordings and merch at www.theatrenocturne.bandcamp.com.

March 22, 2015
Caustic Method signs with Pavement Entertainment

It has been a long road for NY natives Caustic Method. The band has been traveling the state for over a decade working their way into the hearts of metal fans. Their dedication and hard work finally paid off as they have signed a record deal with Pavement Entertainment. They will be joining artists such as Soil, Smile Empty Soul, and Tantric on the label.

Matt Caustic, Darin Scott, Eric Maliszweski, and Angel Rivera will be touring for the remainder of the year, kicking off in Chicago March 20 in support of their new album. Expected to be released June 2 – the album will contain songs from their latest EP “The Virus” as well as a mixture of old and new Caustic Method hits. Vocalist Caustic explains the bands optimism about this next step in their career:

This year should be the year that really puts us on the national metal map. We are definitely surrounded by the best people in the business and have a very loyal legion behind us that have our backs and champing for our success. With that formula of support we are super optimistic as the next chapter unfolds.

This band has truly earned their success. When asked what his advice they would give to the next generation of metal bands Caustic says:

Think as a brand and a business. Took me a long time to make the break between art and commerce. That’s only if you want to make a career out of this. If not just play and have fun. You never know what might come out of it. If you’re good, good things will follow.

So here is to the good things that follow. Stay tuned metal fans, The Virus outbreak begins!

March 20, 2015
Old Boy Records 2015 Spring Showcase

Old Boy Records is holding their 2015 Spring Showcase in the Center for the Arts of Homer – a repurposed church – on Friday March 27. The Upstate New York record label was founded in 2005 by Chris Merkley with a focus on representing the next wave of American Roots musicians.

Ten years later – Old Boy Records represents over a dozen artists from Upstate New York, Nashville and New York City. In addition to helping bands collaborate on shows and recordings – Old Boy also has their hand in creating custom music for television and film.

The showcase will feature acoustic performances from seven acts on two stages, including Driftwood who has created an exceptionally strong presence in the folk/Americana community. In addition to Driftwood – Merkley and band mate Stiv Morgan will be performing. Merkley and Morgan have been playing music together for over 15 years, and founded the band Digger Jones based out of Cortland, New York. Also on the list of performers is Los Blancos, whose eclectic mix of blues, funk, soul, country and Latin music has been a staple of the Syracuse music scene for years.

The music will start at 6pm, with performances taking place between the Community Room and Main Stage throughout the night. Tickets are available by calling the Center for the Arts of Homer at (607) 749-4900 or online. The Center is located at 72 S Main St in Homer, NY.

For a taste of what’s to come, here are some videos from this years Old Boy Records Showcase performers:

Driftwood

Chris Merkley and Stiv Morgan

Los Blancos

The Falconers

Nate & Kate

Gabe Cummins

March 20, 2015
NYS Music March Madness 2016 – Round 2

Welcome to Round 2 of NYS Music’s March Madness 2016! This tournament-style competition includes the remaining 32 bands and artists who call Upstate New York their home.

This year’s 4 regions are based on genres of music – Funk/Jam/Reggae, Metal/Rock, Bluegrass/Folk/Americana and Indie/EDM. Each region has 16 Upstate New York bands in their respective region, battling it out to reach the Final Four and claim this year’s title. Bands were chosen based upon their origins in Upstate and popularity in their respective genres.

In the first round, nearly all Metal/Rock underdogs beat the top seeds, while reigning champ Lucid fell to Mister F in the Jam/Funk/Reggae region. Almost every top seed moves on in the Indie/EDM region while a very competitive Folk/Bluegrass/Americana/Country region has a mix of underdogs and favorites alike.

Round 2 voting begins March 20 at Noon and ends at midnight on Monday March 23. Round three begins March 24, with additional rounds announced on the NYS Music Facebook page.

March 20, 2015
David Crosby Brings His One Man Acoustic Tour to New York

No conversation about musical history can be complete without a mention of David Crosby. From the multiple variations of Crosby and/or Stills and/or Nash and/or Young to a wildly successful solo career to an almost Keith Richards-esque ability to stay alive – Crosby is a true rock and roll legend.

Albany and downstate will get their own taste of “legendary” as David Crosby brings his one man acoustic tour to Hudson June 20, The Town Hall in NYC June 25 and Albany’s The Egg June 30. New York dates will close out July 3 at Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center.

Crosby on the solo shows:

“This is about the songs. The tale telling. Taking you on a voyage to my world for a moment.”

Tickets for all shows are available on his website. Check out the full tour below.

David Crosby Solo Acoustic Tour 2015

June 6, Kerrville, TX, Kerrville Folk Festival
June 9, Miami Beach, FL, Fillmore Miami Beach
June 10, Fort Pierce, FL, Sunrise Theatre
June 12, Clearwater, FL, Capitol Theatre
June 13, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
June 16, Durham, NC, Carolina Theatre of Durham
June 17, Charlottesville, VA, Paramount Theater
June 19, Morristown, NJ, Mayo Performing Arts Center
June 20, Croton-On-Hudson, NY, Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival – Croton Point Park
June 22, Alexandria, VA, Birchmere
June 23, Harrisburg, PA, The Whitaker Center For Science & the Arts – Sunoco Theater
June 25, New York, NY, The Town Hall
June 28, Munhall, PA, Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead
June 30, Albany, NY, The Egg Center For the Performing Arts
July 2, Ridgefield, CT, Ridgefield Playhouse
July 3, Westhampton Beach, NY, Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center
July 5, Bethlehem, PA, Musikfest Café
July 6, New Bedford, MA, Zeiterion Performing Arts Center

March 19, 2015
Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad is Bringing the Spring Steady Tour to Syracuse

Trucking across the country with their fourth studio album “Steady” on their shoulders, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad will be dropping by the Westcott Theater on March 21, to resurrect a night of deluxe reggae spirit for Syracuse. Steady was released in september of 2014, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae chart, #1 on iTunes Reggae Chart, and is the Rochester, NY based quintets’ first collaboration with Easy Star Records.

The GPGDS, as many fans know them by, have been writing, recording, and performing music since 2001 while they were still in high school. The band played local and regional shows, while focusing on performing live for the next few years. In 2005, friends and fans began taping their live shows for fun and sharing their progress with the live music community, which quickly built up a national fan base accompanied by continuous touring schedules. Their hard work and success have nursed a rising career, which we are in store for this week and may even hear some new material from their upcoming album (due out in May), titled Bright Days! Bringing with them to celebrate, are an extraordinary crew of musicians, the High Hopes Band from Boston, MA and fellow Rochester, NY group Danielle Ponder and The Tomorrow People as special guests.

With their Spring Steady Tour under way since March 12, the 20 date tour includes major highlighted events such as the California Roots Festival and Arise Music Festival in Colorado. This run of shows will also bring the Upstate New York natives back home to Ithaca on April 9, Albany the following evening, and Buffalo on April 11. Saturday, March 21 the band will play the Westcott Theater in Syracuse with special guests Danielle Ponder & The Tomorrow People, High Hopes Band. Doors open at 7PM and the show starts at 8PM. This is an all ages show, tickets are $15 in advance and $18 day of the show.

Websites:

http://LivePanda.com/

http://www.highhopesreggae.com

http://www.reverbnation.com/danielleponderthetomorrowpeople

March 18, 2015
Phish Festival 10 is Magnaball Aug 21-23

As we all have expected Phish will perform a three day festival – #10 overall – on Aug 21-23 at Watkins Glen Speedway in Watkins Glens NY. The site just popped up on the Phish homepage minutes ago. This is the same site as 2011’s Superball Fest. Stay tuned for more information shortly.

March 18, 2015
An Interview with Steve Molitz of Particle

NYS Music recently has a chance to sit down and talk to Steve Molitz of Particle about all things going on Particle.

Particle have always had an eclectic mix of musicians. From moe. guitarist Al Schiner to the legendary Joe Satriani, the pattern has remained unchanged. Beginning last year, Brothers Past bassist Clay Parnell joined the group, opening many new doors for the band to explore, and explore they did. This year the additions continue as The Disco Biscuits’ Allen Aucion joins the band on drums. Aucoin, who joined the Biscuits after winning a drum off in 2007 to replace founding member Sam Altman, has been playing under his moniker Dr. Fameus, while the Disco Biscuits tour schedule has slowed down. His sound, blended with Particle, can only lead to endless possibilities. The fast pace grooves that Particle provides will be complimented superbly.

Particle and special guests, Greenhouse Lounge, are coming to town March 19 at the Putnam Den in Sarartoga Springs. Tickets are $15 dollars and can be purchased here. This is going to be a special evening that may not be repeated.

Jimmy Chambers: How did Allen Aucoin end up on this tour with you guys?

Steve Molitz: Allen and I had played a handful of shows together in the past (The Space Lab, Everyone Orchestra, etc.), and we’ve always gotten along famously (pun intended) – both on and offstage. Our bassist Clay Parnell has toured extensively with Allen in their electronic duo Dr Diesel, so when Particle discovered that we needed a drummer (our previous drummer was unable to tour), Allen was a very natural choice. He had a break in his Disco Biscuits schedule, so the timing worked out perfectly. We’re so excited to have him out with us, and we’re all really having a blast on the road together…

JC: Has the Particle sound change since?

SM: Fans can still expect to hear that classic Particle sound, but it has definitely evolved since Allen started playing with us. He’s such a skilled and powerful player, and he has such incredible pacing in the jams. He’s a very creative player, and I love the way he approaches the songs and elevates the music. We’ve been getting into deeper electronic grooves on the recent tours, and this rhythm section lays down such a massive and dynamic foundation. Allen brings a fresh perspective to the songs from the Launchpad era, and he’s a perfect fit for the newer, more electronic songs…

JC: Have you, having been in Phil and friends, been in contact with anyone for the Grateful Dead 50 celebrations?

SM: I reached out to congratulate the guys when they made their big announcement, and I think it’s so cool that they are all so genuinely excited about the shows. I’m so happy for them that they have reached this epic milestone, and I know the shows are going to be really special. And although I can’t announce anything officially yet, I will say that there’s a very good chance you’ll see me and Particle both playing multiple shows in Chicago that weekend…

JC:. How do you feel the band’s momentum has increased over the last year?

SM: Things come in waves, and it’s been such a thrill to watch Particle pick up so much momentum in the last year. The band was on a sort of an unannounced semi-hiatus for the past seven years, but we’re 100% back in action now, and it feels so good to be completely immersed in Particle again. We’ll probably play 75-100 shows this year, and we are putting the finishing touches on a new album in the next few weeks. We’ve debuted a bunch of new original songs on this tour, and we’re really trying to write set lists that challenge us to explore uncharted territory in our improvisations each night. There has definitely been a noticeable change in the feeling at the shows, and the recent surge of energy and excitement from the fans has been so inspiring.

JC:. What are the bands summer plans?

SM: Write, record, release, rehearse, TOUR, rinse, and repeat

March 17, 2015
NYS Music March Madness 2016 – Round 1

ROUND one is complete! Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all bands for participating. ROUND two is now live, go vote for your favorites here. All the round one results can still be reviewed below.

Welcome to NYS Music’s March Madness 2016! This tournament-style competition includes 64 bands and artists who call Upstate New York their home.

This year’s 4 regions are based on genres of music – Funk/Jam/Reggae, Metal/Rock, Bluegrass/Folk/Americana and Indie/EDM. Each region has 16 Upstate New York bands in their respective region, battling it out to reach the Final Four and claim this year’s title. Bands were chosen based upon their origins in Upstate and popularity in their respective genres.

Voting begins March 16 at Noon and ends at midnight on Thursday March 19. Round two begins March 20, with additional rounds announced on the NYS Music Facebook page.

March 16, 2015
Bobaflex to Rock Putnam Den with Local Band’s CD Release

The day after St. Patricks Day is a day of recovery, or in some cases, a way to keep the party going. The Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs will be providing a full night of rock and roll to ensure that the fun doesn’t stop. The March 18 show is Bobaflex with some ‘can’t miss’ music coming to this area.

First up will be Dead Superstar from Long Island. The band has played this area before, and be prepared to have their high energy, heavy alternative rock kick off the night in the right way. they have been playing shows with Bobaflex already, and have a brand new single, “Searching For the Sun” out on iTunes.

Next up is the local juggernaut that is JCHA. (Jesus Christ and the Hallucinogenic Allstars). These guys have been bringing consistent quality rock shows with their residency at the Putnam Den, and this one is the culmination of all that hard work. The band is primed to release their new EP, Cosmic Annihilation at this show, and every single person that walks through the door gets to leave with a copy. NYSMusic premiered the single, “Dying in Leather“, and the rest of the EP will surely be revealed at this show. JCHA signature light show with on stage witch doctor is a spectacle in itself, and a live performance that no one should miss.

Bobaflex is headlining this night of awe inspiring rock, and they will most likely tear the roof off the place. They are widely considered one of the hardest working bands in the industry, and have been relentless in touring the country since their formation in 1998. Their live performance is full of incredible energy and will be sure to get the entire crowd moving and having a hell of a time. Their seventh album is coming out in June of 2015, so hopefully the audience will be privy to some of that new material.

The doors open at 7pm, and the show stars off at 7:30. $15 gets you in the door and a copy of the JCHA record in your hands. See more details at the Facebook event here.

March 16, 2015