NYS Music 20​16

Category: The Northeast

  • Boston Calling Music Festival Takes Over City Hall Plaza

    Over Memorial Day Weekend, thousands gathered in Boston’s City Hall Plaza for the final Boston Calling music festival in that location. Next year, the festival is expanding and will take place in Harvard University’s athletic complex. In addition to music, next year’s festival will also feature film and art exhibitions. (The festival was so enjoyable this year that I have already purchased my tickets for next year.) Despite the unpredictable and quickly changing weather, it was a terrific event with stellar musical performances. Read on below as we recap the three-day festival.

    Friday

    Friday started with an intimate set from Irish folk singer Lisa Hannigan and The National’s Aaron Dessner. It was an impressive performance, and a great way to start the weekend of music. Sufjan Stevens followed with a psychedelic, over-the-top set that started with an epic performance that involved a costume with wings and a banjo being smashed, and ended with a costume with balloons, tin foil and a disco ball strapped to Stevens’ chest. Boston Calling truly had a diverse array of music, and Friday’s lineup certainly displayed this diversity. Friday night closed with one of the festival’s most anticipated acts, pop singer Sia. Her powerful vocals and dance performances that featured Kristen Wiig, Maddie Ziegler, Paul Dano and Gaby Hoffman impressed crowds and left many awed and awaiting Saturday’s stacked lineup.

    city hall plazaSaturday

    Saturday started off with brutally hot weather, with the temperature hitting nearly 100 degrees at one point in the day. The festival managed the weather the best they could, providing free water and samples of Polar Seltzer. Although the water line could take up to 30 minutes to get through at points throughout the day, staff did a great job of making sure their patrons were cared for and safe despite the incredibly hot weather. BØRNS, famous for their hit “Electric Love,” created a fun, dancy atmosphere and lead singer Garrett Borns truly impressed crowds with his beautiful falsetto. Canada-based City and Colour played a soulful and bluesy set and featured a guest appearance from The Raconteurs’ bassist Jack Lawrence. Swedish indie pop band Miike Snow had a decent crowd, but they were mostly background music for those who wished to sit on the pavement of City Hall Plaza or grab something to eat and sit in the shade after a day of completely oppressive heat. The night finished off with impressive music, dancing and light shows from EDM duo Odesza and Swedish vocalist Robyn.

    city hall plazaSunday

    The weather changed drastically by Sunday, and was much cooler and clammier than most patrons expected. It was still a great day of incredibly diverse music. From Vince Staples’ powerful rapping to Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires funky set, the day started with two genres of music that fans had not yet seen at Boston Calling. Charles Bradley was especially impressive, and had me rocking out to his awesome moves and crazy-good voice. Next were The Front Bottoms, where lead man Brian Sella interacted with the crowd the entire set and gave the audience a really good time. Everyone knew the words to all of their songs, and the energy created by the interaction between the crowd and the musicians lent itself to a fun and energetic set. Elle King was next, with her bright blue hair and raspy voice. She faced some backlash from fans regarding her drinking, but she still put on a wonderful and engaging performance. To close out the night, Janelle Monàe really wowed fans with her nine-person band and powerful message of choosing freedom over fear. Her voice is great, her band was tight and fans really enjoyed her honest investment in her music. She also covered a Prince song. The next act, Haim, a rock band started by the Haim sisters, also covered Prince and played fan favorites like “The Wire” and “Falling.” Disclosure closed out the night with a mind-blowing light show and beats that resonated through fans’ chests.

    Overall

    Overall, Boston Calling was one of the most well-organized, fluid and fun festivals that I have ever attended. Staff dealt with the challenges of the weather with ease, and did their best to provide patrons with the most comfortable and healthy experience possible. The food vendors all had both healthy and delicious options, and I was really impressed by the quality of the food that was provided. They made sure that patrons weren’t just getting overpriced, greasy festival food, but an actual meal that tasted good and was well worth the money they paid for it. The diverse and eclectic acts all performed incredibly well, and no one disappointed. There weren’t even that many incidents of drunken fans that couldn’t handle themselves; as I said, it was an incredibly well-organized and fluid festival, and fans seemed to respond to that in a responsible and respectful way. Buy your tickets to the next Boston Calling as soon as possible — the expansion can only mean great things for this thrilling festival.

  • Wanderlust Stratton 2016: Find Your True North

    On June 16, 2016 Wanderlust Yoga & Music Festival makes its way to Stratton, Vermont. Wanderlust is a worldwide festival, taking place in Canada, Australia, and various sites in the United States, including California, Colorado and Vermont. This four day journey encompasses mindful living and healthy expression, offering many styles of yoga, meditation, workshops, lectures, music, outdoor activities such as acro & water-yoga, hiking, and various other amazing offerings; could it get any better for those looking for a healthy vacation?

    wanderlustStratton Mountain Resort in Bondville, VT is the perfect place for Wanderlust, offering a vast landscape for the many classes available: from hikes up the mountain and yoga at the peak, to paddle-board yoga on the pond, and a speakeasy for musicians/artists alike, along with live music at Stratton’s well-known nightlife venue Grizzly’s. And if you haven’t visited yet Stratton Resorts ‘Village’ offers restaurants, shops, and lodging as well, all within the center of the event!

    Their slogan and mission is one that inspires growth, community & healthy living:

    “Unplug from the ordinary. Adventure awaits! At Wanderlust, our mission is to help you find your true north.  True north is not a final destination:  it’s a path, a journey, and a yearning to explore and connect to your life’s purpose.”

    “Our festivals, set in awe-inspiring natural resorts across the globe, are a step down that path. Our transformational retreats bring together world-class teachers, taste-makers, and experts in mindful living in a fun-filled, creative environment.

    Choose your own adventure with multi-level yoga and meditation sessions, mouthwatering organic and whole foods, heart-pumping music, inspiring lectures and workshops, and boundary-pushing outdoor activities. Wander with us and find your true north.”

    Having attended the past three years, it’s easy to say that this event offers an experience that will leave you different than when you arrived-full of inspiration, joy and a perspective that you can only imagine until you enjoy the super-dynamic Wanderlust experience!

    And to top off all of the activities, the variety of teachers, performers, speakers and those who make it all happen is phenomenal. The past few years, Wanderlust brought musical offerings including talents such as Nahko & Medicine for the People, Trevor Hall, Coyote & Crow, Marco Benevento, and so many others that put on shows that left their imprint on the mountain. This year’s line-up consists of 28 yoga teachers, 11 speakers, a wide-variety of musical styles; Michael Franti, Karsh Kale, Magic Giant, Sheela Bringi, and Morley will bring their unique performances to the table. A variety of solo act’s from Francesca Blanchard, Garth Stevenson, and Priya Darshini, to DJ’s Drez, Sol Rising, Tasha Blank, and various others will keep the music flowing all throughout the weekend.

    If you have yet to experience a yoga festival, this one is sure to please. Wanderlust is super-dynamic, covering all of the bases: health, music, fitness, learning, organic food-as well as being a getaway to the mountains-this is one that will make your summer one to remember!

    For more info about the line-up and general inquiries visit the festival website.

  • Mad Tea Party Jam: A Fusion of Art and Music Not to Miss

    The Mad Tea Party Jam is a festival that friends have been buzzing about for years. This year, I am finally going to make it, and I’m excited to bring you the inside scoop of the weekend, garnished with a gallery by Amanda Siedner.

    This year’s Mad Tea Party Jam will take place from June 16 through 19 in Artemas, PA, at the Four Quarters InterFaith Sanctuary, a new location for the festival. This will be the fifth anniversary of the event, which began as the wedding of Elise and Taco Olmstead, founders of the Appalachian Jamwich. Now it is an anniversary celebration that the couple shares with everyone, and it’s a gathering that focuses heavily on the art community, in addition to packing the weekend with amazing musical experiences (see the video below).

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    The Lineup

    Topping this year’s lineup are Papadosio, Twiddle and Tauk, with each playing two sets. Other scheduled artists include Consider the Source (Radiohead Set), Big Something and Aqueous playing three sets each, two Broccoli Samurai sets, the Jauntee, the Primate Fiasco, Electric Love Machine (ELM), two Litz sets, Deltanine, Definition of One, Oh Kee Pa and more (see the full schedule here).

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    Artists and Workshops

    Throughout the weekend, there will a team of live painters creating visual art for festival-goers to explore while enjoying the music. The weekend is jam-packed with alluring workshops. Notably, Dale Allen Hoffman, the key-note speaker, will offer “profound insights about Mary and the Divine Feminine” in his workshop “Isis-Magdalene and the Sacred Fire of Ecstasy.” You can learn sacred geometry/mandala making with Charles Gilchrist, or learn about innovative eco-sustainable architecture with Gariel Carazos. There will be a 90-minute vinyasa-style Yoga workshop with Courtney Gabinetti to help open your heart, and a Laughter Yoga Workshop with Damon Owen. Other workshops include an Empowerment workshop, Healing Through Hoop, Merkabah Light Body Activation, among others. You can see the full list of workshops and their descriptions here.

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    Camping

    The new location seems to be a great fit for such a spiritual, art-geared event. According to the website, since 1994, “Four Quarters has been growing functional cultural alternatives, firmly grounded in an Ecological and Earth Spiritual perspective… A sacred place in the Alleghenies, set aside in perpetuity as a Sanctuary for Nature… and for People.” It will feature a shaded camping area perfect for hammocks, a swimming hole for festival-goers to dip into to cool off and two fishing ponds. You can learn more about the Four Quarters InterFaith Sanctuary on their website.

    Mad Tea Party Jam offers a VIP experience that will feature camping closest to the stages and the VIP lounge, catered dinner with the bands, a VIP laminate and a Merch Package. There will be a costume theme on each of the three nights that the website encourages people to “interpret loosely;” Thursday is Toga, Friday will be Disco and Saturday plans for a Star Wars/Space theme.

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    Things to Know

    According the Mad Tea Party website, festival-goers won’t be able to camp next to their cars, however, they will be able to drop their things off at their campsite before driving the car out to parking. Children are welcome at the festival; anyone under the age of 13 will be admitted for free. Water stations will be available, as well as a few small restrooms with showers, in addition to the porta-potties around the grounds. Mad Tea Party is a BYOB event for those of the legal drinking age, but Four Quarters will be selling bottles of their mead. Bad attitudes, glass, fireworks, pets are among things listed as not welcome at the festival.

  • Domefest 2016, The Flock Congregates for a Weekend of Pleasure

    Smaller festivals are considered to be a more intimate and familiar experience. Domefest 2016 is certainly that, but on a whole different level. There is a palpable energy, a feeling that being a part of this Flock brings with it a love that pulsates in every interaction, welcomes you as you are and most importantly, makes you belong without any doubt.

    This year’s Domefest was held in the beautiful back hills of Bedford, PA, at Front Royale Farm; it was the event’s seventh anniversary. The new location was favorable primarily to VA Flockers, PA Flockers and some from New York, but the Flock is everywhere, and some dedicated fans made a much longer drive. Over the years, the event has moved locations a number of times, most recently relocating from Tripp’s Farm in Terra Alta, West VA, where it was held last year. While making my rounds talking to veteran Flockers, I got the impression that this year’s location was the best one yet, due to proximity, ease of navigation and lay of the land.

    On Thursday, everyone arrived at the farm greeted by sunlight and a warm breeze pushing the clouds overhead. There was a large forest camping area most of which lined a long stretch of the main cleared road. There was also an option for field camping in the Dome Field that some people opted for. A path with wooden bridges that were fairytale picturesque, albeit a little risky, connected the general camping areas to the concert area. Camps set up and hammocks suspended, the early arrivals had a chance to enjoy the afternoon sun, while soft sounds of acoustic guitars from nearby campsites floated on the wind, laughter and conversation filled the woods.

    domefest 2016Music kicked off at 6 p.m. on the Flo Stage with Star City Disco, led by DigitalDevy. Lespecial followed at the main stage sparking the evening heat, spreading their melodies on hard electronic grooves and stirring vocals. This year’s Domefest had three stages again, the Flo Stage for in-between sets, the main Runa Stage and the Late-Night Stage, sponsored by the Bamboo Eater.

    Electric Love Machine (ELM) took us into the first evening with an energetic, ethereal “Hattori,” a spectacularly haunting “Rabbit Hole,” closing with a hard grooving “Tomorrow knows.” After that, the Flock, in full dancing mode from ELM’s set, got ready to see the first Pigeons set of the weekend. This set featured old favorites and tracks off their newly released third studio album Pleasure, such as, “Burning Up My Time” and “Live It Up,” along with a first-time cover of “1999” (Prince tribute). Broccoli Samurai did not give people a chance to miss them; opening with a Lotus cover that stopped people in their tracks, and kept them dancing well into the early morning.

    domefest 2016Friday morning was perhaps the best weather the Flock saw before rain took over for the rest of the weekend. Everyone emerged from their tents to meet the warm sun, shaded from the heat by the surrounding forest. Workshops kicked off with a Rise and Shine Yoga Flow both Saturday and Friday mornings, with the talented Rebecca Simms. Music kicked off at 1 p.m. with Mateo Monk’s soothing tones, “like gospel on a Saturday morning.” The Jauntee, Litz and McLovins kept the crowds glued in the concert area, while Puremotion and Vibe and Direct kept them from leaving during set changes. The Jauntee started the marathon with funky grooves, which Litz later picked up and reverberated with their unforgettable vocals by Austin Litz, closing out their set with the first song guitarist Justin Robb has ever written for the band, “If you haven’t heard our name, you’re overdue.”

    domefest 2016The evening was beginning to gather more and more of the Flockers, as Aqueous played their first set of the weekend (live stream by our Amanda Siedner available in AQuaintences Facebook group), followed by a heavy Mantras set with a memorable “The Way Life’s Been Good During Wartime” mashup. The second night of Pigeons certainly did not disappoint, with a Funky start, “Funk e Zekiel,” slowing a little for “Walk Outside” and “Sunny Day” before bringing the funk back with “Penguins>Funkijam” and a “Julia” with an “Under the Sea” tease. The Pigeons played an original debut “Fun in Funk” before closing out with “Ocean Flows” and “E. The Liquid.” The rain was starting it’s own marathon right around that time. Consider the Source mesmerized the crowd for as long as possible, until they thinned due to the heavy outpour, but many were determined not to let weather deter them from the amazing set. ShwizZ took the stage as the sky really opened the water flow for the remainder of the night, but again those determined were not dismayed and danced with ShwizZ until 5 a.m.

    domefest 2016Waking up on the last day of Domefest was a little less warm and a lot less sunny. Flockers were slower to emerge, hoping that the downpour would take a break, but a drizzle was present for the whole day. Music kicked off at 1 p.m. with Strange Machines and Out of Beardspace, while Mateo Monk once again soothed in between sets. The Hornitz rocked the stage with a cool “Dayman” cover (Always Sunny in Philadelphia), vibrating their horns through Dome. Mister F brought their funk with deep bass, synthesizers, high-energy tunes and great covers,  at one point sharing the stage with Hornitz. Scrambled Greg got the crowds ready for a Splintered Sunlight Grateful Dead set. Deaf Scene rocked the crowd before and after the amazing Big Something set that got the rainy night rolling with “Closer” and later “Passenger>Tumbleweed” and “Love Generator>The Curse of Julia Brown” to finish. Pigeons closed out their festival with an amazing run, with a “Skipjack” teased with “Paint it Black,” “J-Town>Black Dog>Whoopie” with the Hornitz boys and a first-time cover of “99 Red Balloons” that was sublime. A “Zydeko” finished the set, weaving into “Rainbow” in the middle. The last late-night was held by ELM and Aqueous, who held a sizable crowd in the soft mist until early morning. ELM kicked off the rainy dance party with “Captain Disco” and later went into a fly “Weird Fishes” cover, and Aqueous took the crowd home with “Origami” and “Skyway>Dave’s Song>Kitty Chaser (Explosions)” with Marty teases in Origami and Dave’s Song.

    This is the second year that Domefest has held three days of music. The stacked line up made it difficult for Flockers to leave the concert area, despite nature’s best attempt to wash them out. At the end of the weekend, although cold and wet, the Flock packed up with warmth in their hearts from the new memories and friendships that they will hold until we get to do it all over again next year. “Tell the right people,” Greg finished their last set with wisdom for keeping that very special energy that lives at Domefest alive.

  • Hearing Aide: The DuPont Brothers ‘A Riddle for You’

    The DuPont Brothers, a sibling duo from Burlington, VT, have the gift of being both poets and musicians, a rarity these days. It’s always refreshing to hear sibling duos, because you can sense the true bond felt between them. Whether they’re harmonizing or singing in unison, Sam and Zack hit every note head on and flawlessly, while at the same time giving each other the space to shine individually. Joined on their latest album by several Burlington-based stars, A Riddle for You showcases just what this corner of the world has to offer in the way of talent.

    While guitars are the most prominent instrument on this album, interjections from the occasional fiddle, banjo and pedal steel are certainly welcome throughout. The musical influences of Neil Young come through strongly, perhaps most obviously on “Trespassers,” which sounds a lot like “Harvest Moon,” while hints of the musical stylings of Ray LaMontagne can be heard on songs such as “The Arbor.” Then there are songs like “The Positives of Ten Degrees” that offer a more unique and individual style, while staying true to the folk element that seems to prevalent to varying degrees.

    In terms of the vocals, each brother has his own distinctive and divine voice, both being particularly easy on the ears. Zack’s strong vocals seem to come effortlessly, giving the sense that he must share his voice and music-writing talents with the world. With Sam taking over the vocal leads on the album’s fourth song, “Ben’s Song,” one can sense a heavy vocal influence from Nick Drake, with an almost otherworldly tone.

    It would be fair to say that this album would be perfect for a stay-at-home date night, having it playing in the background, while eating a romantic dinner, providing background music during periods of conversation with its mellow under-spoken tone and intelligent lyrics to ponder upon during moments of silence. A Riddle For You has a way of really tugging on your heartstrings, having the quality of sounding familiar while at the same time offering a fresh twist on traditional folk music. The DuPont Brothers’ second album will be available in stores this June, so be sure to pick up a copy.

    Key Tracks: Something to Write About, The Positives of Ten Degrees, Fuse

  • A Night Of Smooth Jazz and So Much More in New Haven

    The Lilly’s Pad was low-key but very much alive with Rohn Lawrence and Friends lighting up the intimate venue as they do every Monday night. The venue, found above Toad’s Place in New Haven is the epitome of a jazz lounge; soft lighting, a few tables and sectional couches lining the walls of the room, drinks in hand and people enjoying a relaxing night of incredible music

    Lawrence on guitar, Jay Rowe on keys and Trever Somerville on drums brought a huge sound to the small venue that captured the whole audience. It was a diverse crowd, a few students, a family or two, some regulars and good friends of the band members, and they loved every second of the show.

    Smooth yes, but just jazz? No. This was a night of everything smooth: jazz, funk, blues, soul. They had it and mastered it all.

    All of these genres require one to pour plenty of emotion and feeling into the songs and everyone on stage was obviously lost in their sound. Lawrence was perched on a stool for the night but by no means was he stagnant. Every note he hit was an emotional decision and you could see it in his face. His eyes shut,  head rolling and bobbing on his shoulders and body twisting.

    Somerville was in the same seated predicament but that didn’t stop him from moving around in his throne and pumping out some intriguing and driving grooves off of his four piece set. He was tight, technical throughout the whole night and brought a big sound from the tiny set.

    Rowe was just as into it as the others while managing to play bass on his upper board and mess around with his lower synthesizer to add a unique color to the already gripping performance.  All of the band members were working double time like Rowe, with Lawrence singing and working a plethora of pedals below him and Somervillie accompanying the band with backup vocals.

    The night started out with an energetic piece “This Is Where You Belong” off his second album Hangin’ On a String. It instantly drew the crowd in from the bar with Lawrence’s unique guitar tone and the intricate drumming from Somerville. It had a very jazzy tone to it but managed to be fairly aggressive and that was very prominent when Rohn soloed. One could even say it he was shredding away, not an adjective associated with smooth jazz. The night continued with a variety of smooth tones and took a shift when Rohn introduced his guest star, Wallace Gary.

    Lawrence brings on a guest musician every Monday, and this week the venue was treated to a very emotional Gary who fit the sound of Rohn and friends flawlessly. With his bright red leather jacket and acid wash jeans, Gary brought more than one type of color to the stage. His voice was very fitting and diverse, singing a few covers from Chaka Kahn’s “Tell Me Something Good” to Prince’s “Kiss” and absolutely nailing every note.

    The four of them made for a unique, powerhouse team that had everyone in awe at the unexpectedly big sound from a small band in an even smaller room. Rohn Lawrence and Friends play every Monday night for five bucks at the door and is definitely a friendly and inviting place for anyone to try once.

  • Daemon Chili to Tour This Summer

    Massachusetts-based American Roots Rock quintet Daemon Chili is hitting the road this summer in support of their sophomore album released earlier this year, titled Mercy of the Sea.

    Their 10-city tour is set to start June 3 in New Hampshire before trekking though New York with two stops in SaranacLake and Syracuse following shortly after. Their tour wraps up at Arlene’s Grocery in New York City on Oct. 8.

    Daemon Chili - Promo photo - Copyright Coleman Rogers

    Daemon Chili is made up of five members including singer Michael Dion (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) formerly of Hot Day at the Zoo, Steve Benson (pedal steel, electric mandolin), Jason Moretti (lead guitar), Jay Breen (drums) and Jason Samiagio (bass). The group formed in the fall of 2013 and quickly hit the studio to begin recording. Their first album, titled Rise Up, was released in 2014 to great reviews of their transition from acoustic string band to a roots rock force.

    Mercy of the Sea details provided by the bands website:

    The band’s second album, Mercy of the Sea (2016), is Daemon Chili’s first official full-length studio effort, which peaked out at number 5 on the Relix/Jambands.com Radio charts. This album marks the band’s unquestionable metamorphosis into a musical outfit that truly defies genre categorization. The album also features a myriad of additional musicians whose talents help to round out a sophisticated musical juggernaut that heaves up-and-down with purpose and intention. The lineup includes Max Chase (Amulus) on keys; Nick Heys (Hot Day at the Zoo) on piano; Seth Bailin, Mike Kaskiewicz, Alex Allman (The Party Band) on horns; and Jes Sheldon (The Lightkeepers) on backing vocals.

    June 3 – Manchester, NH @ Shaskeen

    June 17 – Saranac Lake, NY @ The Waterhole

    June 18 – Syracuse, NY @ Funk N Waffles Downtown

    June 23 – Portsmouth, NH @ Thirsty Moose

    July 1 – Peterborough, NH @ Harlow’s Pub

    July 30 – Lowell, MA @ Dudley’s

    Aug 12 – Worceter, MA @ Beatnik’s

    Aug 22 – Portsmouth, NH @ The Players’ Ring

    Aug 26 – Waterville, ME @ Mainely Brews

    Aug 27 – Old Town, ME @ The Boomhouse

    Oct 8 – New York, NY @ Arlene’s Grocery

    [embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=–AtlxiYp3w[/embedyt]

  • The Temperance Movement Premieres ‘White Bear’ Video, Announces Tour

    This summer, English rockers the Temperance Movement will debut the sophomore album, White Bear, followed by a headlining tour.

    The five-member outfit kick off the July run at the Ride Festival in Telluride, Colorado, and are scheduled to make stops at Lost Horizon in Syracuse, Mercury Lounge in New York City and Underground Arts in Philadelphia before the tour closes in Detroit. And on May 15, the group exclusively premiered the video for the record’s title track via Loudwire.

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    The three-minute video was the creation of noted photographer and director Steven Sebring, who used his signature “revolution system” camera techniques to produce a stunning visual manipulation of time and light. Sebring also created the album’s cover image “of a girl and a bear, interlaid and overlapping in magical realism” inspired by Fyodor Dostoevsky’s essay, Winter Notes on Summer Impressions. 

    The rising rock band that includes vocalist Phil Campbell, bassist Nick Fyffe, drummer Damon Wilson and guitarists Paul Sayer and Matt White. Although bearing the same name as the prohibitionist social movement of the 1900s, the Temperance Movement is not straightedge when it comes to gritty rock and roll. They have opened for heavyweight acts like the Rolling Stones, and this summer, the group shares the Ride Festival bill with Pearl Jam and Cage the Elephant, among others.

    White Bear officially drops July 15 via Fantasy Records, but is available for pre-order now via iTunes and Amazon. If you want to see them live, scan the dates here or below to see if the Temperance Movement is coming to a venue near you.

    The Temperance Movement summer 2016 tour:

    7/9-10 – Ride Festival – Telluride, CO
    7/12 – Marquis Theatre – Denver, CO
    7/14 – Bottom Lounge – Chicago, IL
    7/15 – Limelight – Peoria, IL
    7/16 – The Stache at Intersection – Grand Rapids, MI
    7/18 – Lost Horizon – Syracuse, NY
    7/19 – Mercury Lounge – New York, NY
    7/20 – Underground Arts – Philadelphia, PA
    7/22 – A&R Music Bar – Columbus, OH
    7/23 – The Shelter at Saint Andrews Hall – Detroit, MI

  • Gang of Thieves Tour Stops in Utica and Troy

    Gang of Thieves will head out on an extensive tour of the Northeast and South with stops at several New York music festivals and shows in Utica and Troy.

    gang of thieves tourBurlington, Vermont-based rockers Gang of Thieves’s spring and summer tour will take them to several stops in New York as well as neighboring states. It brings them back to Lukin’s in Utica on Thursday, May 26. After a tour of North Carolina and South Carolina through the first half of June, they return to the Northeast. They’re back in New York on June 18 to play the River Street Festival in Troy, and they’ll come back to Troy on Aug. 12 for a show on the Captain JP Cruise Line.

    Gang of Thieves has several stops in nearby locations in the Northeast including their tour opener on May 20 at Harlow’s Pub in Peterborough, New Hampshire and the following night, May 21, at the Magic Hat Artifactory in South Burlington, Vermont. Following their tour of the South, they return with a show at the Kingdom Taproom in St. Johnsbury, Vermont on June 11. They play the Middle East in Cambridge, Massachusetts on Friday, June 17. A return to Vermont sees them at the Eat More Kale Festival in Montpelier on June 25 before heading to Manchester, Connecticut on July 1 to play the Hungry Tiger. Beer and music lovers will find them at the Stowe Brewers Festival on July 29 in Stowe, Vermont.

    They’re making full rounds of the area festivals including Strangecreek on May 27; Buffalove on July 30; the Organic Smiles Festival in Middletown, Connecticut on Aug. 5; Backwoods Pondfest on Aug. 6; and Mazzstock in Marlboro on Aug. 27.

    Gang of Thieves tour dates:
    May 20 – Harlow’s Pub, Peterborough, NH
    May 21 – Magic Hat Artifactory, South Burlington, VT
    May 26 – Lukin’s, Utica, NY
    May 27 – StrangeCreek Campout, Greenfield, MA
    May 29 – Wicked Weed Brewing, Asheville, NC
    May 31 – Independent Public Alehouse, Greenville, SC
    June 1 – Charleston Pour House, Charleston, SC
    June 2 – Visulite Theatre, Charlotte, NC
    June 3 – The Pour House Music Hall, Raleigh, NC
    June 4 – Bulls Tavern, Winston-Salem, NC
    June 11 – Kingdom Taproom, St. Johnsbury, VT
    June 17 – Middle East, Cambridge, MA
    June 18 – River Street Festival, Troy, NY
    June 25 – Eat More Kale Festival, Montpelier, VT
    July 1 – Hungry Tiger, Manchester, CT
    July 29 – Stowe Brewers Festival, Stowe, VT
    July 30 – Buffalove Music Festival, Westfield, NY
    August 5 – Organic Smiles Festival, Middletown, CT
    August 6 – Backwoods Pondfest, Peru, NY
    August 12 – Captain JP Cruise Line, Troy NY
    August 27 – Mazzstock, Marlboro, NY

    [embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCn1NfcMBK8[/embedyt]

  • Dopapod Brings Spring Tour to a Close with Three Nights in Cambridge

    Dopapod spring tour came to a satiating conclusion this weekend, April 28, 29, and 30 at the prestigious Sinclair in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the band would be returning to the venue for the first time since April 17, 18, and 19 of last year. Having a different opening act to look forward to on each night attracted familiar faces from the previous year, as well as plenty of patrons unacquainted with the headlining act.

    dopapod cambridgeAqueous began the weekend at 9 o’clock sharp on Thursday the 28th. Hailing from Buffalo, New York, the band’s old school groove rock sound served as a perfect appetizer for the heavier energy of the evening. Guitarists Mike Gantzer and Dave Loss provided inspiring technical tandem guitar lines; extremely refreshing in a scene full of one-guitar bands. With pleasant vocal harmonies to match, the opening set provided foresight into the stunning musicianship that would recur throughout the weekend.

    Dopapod left the starting line with their spin on the “Donkey Kong Country Theme”, which saw us into a newer composition called “Super Bowl.” Keyboardist/vocalist Eli Winderman turned up the heat as they continued with “Turnin’ Knobs,” providing the perfect counterpoint to guitarist/vocalist Rob Compa’s ice cold leads which teased us out and into the next track, “Vol. 3 #86.” Aqueous guitarists Mike and Dave then returned to the stage to join Dopapod in giving us a special treat, The Eagles‘ legendary “Hotel California.” You’d think that that would be a track best left to its originators, but this cover did more than justice. Rob’s pitch perfect vocals accompanied Aqueous’ chilling guitar harmonies perfectly in a display that would’ve impressed Joe Walsh. A brief “Bubblebrain” jam directed us to the end of the set, an even briefer return to “Turnin’ Knobs”. The second set began with a jam and a “Weird Charlie”, which met its moniker perfectly in a flurry of teases that might seem weird on paper. Rage Against the Machine‘s unmistakable “Killing in the Name” began the onslaught. The familiar power chords of Green Day‘s “Brain Stew” then progressed surprisingly well into the chorus of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” All the while teasing their own “French Bowling,” a French flag was projected with the stage lights as the boys settled on a uniquely arranged version of this masterpiece. Moving right along with “Braindead” and “Sonic”, bassist Chuck Jones and drummer Scott Zwang’s firm rhythm kept the energy in the room brimming. The band chose a couple of tracks off of their latest album ‘Never Odd or Even’ to bring the second set to an end, “Like a Ball” and fan favorite “Present Ghosts.” The second part of “Weird Charlie” fulfilled the call for encore, and left the crowd almost anxious to return to the venue for the next evening’s show.

    4-28-2016
    Set I: Donkey Kong Country Theme, Super Bowl, Turnin’ Knobs [1], Vol. 3 #86 [2], Hotel California [3], Bubblebrain [4], Turnin’ Knobs
    Set II: Jam, Weird Charlie [5], French Bowling, Braindead, Sonic [6], Like a Ball, Present Ghosts
    Encore: Weird Charlie pt. 2 [7]

    [1] (Contained Vol. 3 tease)
    [2] (Contained Turnin’ Knobs, Donkey Kong, Escort – Cocaine Blues teases)
    [3] w/ Mike and Dave from Aqueous (Eagles cover)
    [4] unfinished (Contained Turnin’ Knobs tease)
    [5] included Green Day Brain Stew jam (Contained French Bowling, Killing in the Name, Jack’s Lament, While My Guitar Gently Weeps teases)
    [6] contained FIGHT and FATALITY Mortal Combat samples (Contained Fly Like an Eagle tease)
    [7] contained FATALITY Mortal Combat sample

    Boston’s own Hayley Jane and the Primates started the night with a bang on Friday the 29th. Combining elements of American folk, early rock, and a plethora of other popular genres, they create a sound that captivates in a way that the mere sum of its parts cannot. Vocalist Hayley Jane’s stage presence is something that can be matched only by her sheer range and overall vocal prowess. Guitarist/vocalist Justin Hancock and keyboardist/vocalist Jeff King provide clean three part vocal harmonies, as well as the base of a sound which diverse doesn’t begin to describe. With dates scheduled through spring and straight into the festival season, fans in New York and all over New England should certainly keep an eye out for the strikingly gorgeous Ms. Jane and her wonderful Primates.

    “Nuggy Jawson” drew the crowd’s attention like a tractor beam as soon as the lights went down. Dopapod was all smiles at the sold out friday night crowd, going into the fourth “Priorities” they’ve played this year. A menacing “Black and White” got everyone moving, with bassist Chuck Jones’ gut busting grooves truly allowing the rhythm section to cut through the mix. Next we got an insight into where exactly he might’ve honed his nearly sensual plucking skills, welcoming his former bass instructor Dan Morris to the stage. Frank Zappa’s crushing “Apostrophe” would serve as the backdrop for a dual bass solo that was emotionally fulfilling to say the least. It was moving to see a musician invite his mentor to the stage to show him the true reverence from both the crowd and the pupil. As ‘D-Mo’ waved goodbye, everyone concurred that nary a dual bass solo had been heard since Spinal Tap’s Derek Smalls played one with himself back in ’88. The more relaxing “Cure” continued the set, which saw it’s live debut on the third show of the tour in Colorado. The third track of the evening off of the ‘Drawn Onward’ album, “Flipped”, brought us to intermission. After a long and arduous TSA style search upon reentry, the Sinclair was gracious enough to allow Dopapod in continuing to be the only thing tighter than their security. “Nerds” had everyone who knew them singing along to no words. A dreamy intro from lead us into “FABA”, next driving the set in a heavier direction with “Give It a Name”. “Freight Train Filled With Dynamite” was actually filled with a finger pickin’ good bluegrass jam, exemplifying Dopapod’s propensity for true cross-genre fusion. The second night concluded with “Cloud World” and “Dracula’s Monk”. Rob Compa returned to the stage for a one man encore, playing right up until curfew to the crowd’s dismay. We would all have to wait until the final evening to see a complete return.

    4-29-2016
    Set I: Nuggy Jawson, Priorities, Black and White, Apostrophe [1], Cure, Flipped
    Set II: Nerds [2], FABA, Give It A Name [3], Freight Train Filled With Dynamite [4], Cloud World, Dracula’s Monk

    [1] w/ Chucks bass teacher Danny Morris (Frank Zappa cover)
    [2] (Contained Flipped tease)
    [3] (Contained Kung Fu Fighting tease) (Contained FABA teases)
    [4] Bluegrass

    Another Boston based band, Strange Machines, warmed the engine for the final drive of the weekend on Saturday the 30th. The spirit was high in another sold out crowd, as we received an early surprise when Dopapod’s Rob came out to join for the haunting “Little Monster”. Guitarist/vocalist Mike MacDonald upped the ante and busted out his falsetto for a funky cover of Escort’s “Cocaine Blues” that everyone related well with. All three opening acts of the weekend related to and prepared us for Dopapod’s sound perfectly, and that theme culminated in Strange Machines.

    “Onionhead” was actually the song that introduced me to the prog rock princes who are Dopapod, so it was a perfect coincidence that they would open this Saturday night tour finisher with the track. “Off the Cuff” provided a window into the previous evening, teasing tracks “Black and White” and “Give It a Name”. Another song which they debuted in early April, “November”, transitioned in and out of the next song “Bahbi”, which turned back into “November”. “Whale (I am)” was the next selection, with the jam seeming a bit directionless as Dopapod played it live for the third time in their career. “Psycho Nature” left us with another explanation of Friday night’s set, teasing “FABA” on its way into the end of the first set, “Weedie”. Feeling in a jammier mood than usual, the boys decided to begin the end with a bouncy “Piazole”, which rang excitedly into the soon to be classic “Trapper Keeper”. The jams and transitions throughout the run and the tour in general were far and above anything that Dopapod has played live thus far, and this last three song set exemplified that fact. At the end of “Picture in Picture” Rob told us exactly who’s to blame for the spectacular spring tour finale that we had just witnessed, thanking each and every one of the road, lighting, and sound crew members by name. The encore began with yet more new songs from the repertoire, beginning with “Made A Design”, which debuted on the 6th of April. “8 Years Ended” looped briefly back into “Picture”, then ending the night, the run, and the entire tour on “Bluetooth”.

    Set I: Onionhead, Off the Cuff [1], November [2], Bahbi, November, Whale (I Am), Psycho Nature [3], Weedie
    Set II: Piazole, Trapper Keeper [4], Picture in Picture [5]
    Encore: Made A Design, 8 Years Ended [6], Bluetooth

    [1] contained Black and White jam (Contained Give It A Name tease)
    [2] (Contained Bahbi tease)
    [3] (Contained FABA tease)
    [4] Extended Jam; Tim and Eric samples
    [5] Extended Jam; crew introductions
    [6] (Contained Picture in Picture tease)

    It’s interesting to wonder who will be the forerunners of rock and roll when the present day torch holders are forced to make their pass. Unique song structure, improvisation, seamless transitions, and iconic stage presence are all requirements on the checklist. They are all traits that Dopapod commands like old pros as well. This three night run proved that the band is more than just another act on the bill. They compose well. They rehearse as they should. And they executed their sound with more vim and vigor than ever before this weekend in Cambridge.