NYS Music 20​17

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  • 2017 NBT Bank Summer Concert Series in Norwich Announced

    NBT Bank summer concert series in Norwich will see a diverse mix of genres during this years lineup, every Thursday night during the months of July and August. These free shows will see a mix of Grammy winners/nominees, and young up and coming artists.

    Hartford, CT area band, McLovins, will kick off the summer festivities in Norwich’s East Side Park on July 6, at 7pm with a block party. Rotary Club will be serving free hotdogs, while the Norwich Cheer Team, will be serving free ice cream by Gilligan’s, along with other treats.

    The 2017 lineup will also consist of Grammy nominated blues artist Kenny Neal. Neal was nominated for Best Contemporary Blues Album, for his 2016 release Bloodline. Grammy nominated guitarist, singer/songwriter Bill Kirchen. In 2002, Kirchen was inducted into the Washington D.C Area Music Association Hall of Fame along with Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters/Nirvana). Two time Grammy award winner Terrance Simien will close out the summer series on Aug.31. His band, Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience Band have toured in more than 45 countries and performed over 7000 shows in their 30 plus year career.

    Rain will not stop performers from taking the stage, as Chenango County Council of the Arts Auditorium in Norwich will serve as the rain location if inclement weather happens.

    The event is brought to you by the Chenango Blues Association with support from corporate sponsor NBT Bank. Grants from the Greater Norwich Foundation and the R.C. Smith Foundation were also provided. The program is made possible with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by the Chenango County Council of the Arts, with support by Governor Andrew Cuomo, and the New York State Legislature.

    NBT Bank Summer Concert Series Lineup:

    July 6 – McLovins
    July 13 – John Brown’s Body
    July 20 – Kenny Neal
    July 27 – Dangermuffin
    Aug 3 – Bill Kirchen
    Aug 10 – Vanessa Collier Band
    Aug 17 – Honey Island Swamp Band
    Aug 24 – Billy Strings
    Aug 31 – Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience Band

  • Slipknot Documentary to Hit Theaters

    Maggots of the world get ready to see Slipknot in a different light. The bright lights to be exact. Well, sort of. Slipknot has announced that the band’s documentary, Day of the Gusano, will come to the big screen at the end of summer.

    slipknot documentaryThe documentary, produced by MusicScreen, and directed by Slipknot’s Shawn “Clown” Crahan, will hit over a thousand screens world-wide on a very limited ‘one night only’ showing on Sept. 6. Cities that will be lucky enough to hold screenings and ticket information will be announced sometime in July for the one day only event.

    Day Of The Gusano, features the band’s first ever visit to Mexico City in December 2015. The documentary consists of exclusive interviews with band members expressing how important Slipknots fan base is to them. The documentary also shares interactions with band members listening to stories from their fan base in Mexico City during the inaugural Knotfest.

    When talking about the upcoming documentary, Clown stated,”Slipknot still has dreams for itself. Finally playing Mexico was one of them. It’s been a surreal life of rock and roll for Slipknot and the fact that the dreams still go on for us is simply incredible. Thank you.”

    Guitarist Jim Root added,”We had such a great time at Knotfest Mexico… Not only with all the friends and bands that were there, but with the fans and the crowd we had to document it with. Now we get to share it with the world.”

    Slipknot has been nominated for several Grammy awards throughout its career, taking one home in 2006 for the song “Before I Forget.” Four of the band’s five studio albums, have reached platinum status by the RIAA, with the band’s debut album reaching two times platinum status. Slipknot has earned 13 platinum and 44 gold certifications from around the world with over 17 million unit sales.

    Slipknot is: Corey Taylor (vocals), Shawn”Clown” Crahan (custom percussion), Jim Root (guitar), Mick Thomson (guitar), Craig “133” Jones (samples, media, programming), Sid Wilson (turntables), Chris Fehn (custom percussion), Alessandro Venturella (bass), and Jay Weinberg (drums).

  • Saranac Jams Lineup Includes Taking Back Sunday, Dark Star Orchestra, Dirty Heads, Get The Led Out

    Saranac Brewery has booked some exciting jams and shows this summer. American Reggae bands Dirty Heads and SOJA will be taking the stage on Tuesday, June 20. Zeppelin tribute band Get the Led Out will perform Friday, July 21. Grateful Dead tribute band Dark Star Orchestra will be playing on Tuesday, Aug. 1. Alternative rockers Taking Back Sunday are slated to play alongside Every Time I Die and All Get Out on Friday, Aug. 18.

    Saranac Jams

    Saranac Brewery, located at 830 Varick Street in Utica, offers summer music events, a tavern on site, tours, and a gift shop. See the website for more information and hours of operation.

    Saranac Jams Lineup

    June 20 – Dirty Heads & Soja with the Green, RDGLDGRN
    July 21 – Get The Led Out
    Aug. 1 – Dark Star Orchestra
    Aug. 18 – Taking Back Sunday with Every Time I Die, All Get Out

  • 71st Annual Tony Award Wrap-Up

    New York’s annual celebration of Broadway theater has once again come and gone. The 71st annual Tony Awards, hosted by Kevin Spacey, showcased the best Broadway has to offer in theater, awarding the past calendar year’s best productions and performers. Dear Evan Hansen (6), and Hello Dolly!(4), took home the most awards at the 71st ceremony.

    71st Tony Award winners and nominees:

    Best Musical:
    Winner: Dear Evan Hansen
    Come From Away
    Groundhog Day The Musical
    Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812

    Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical:
    Winner: Bette Midler, Hello Dolly
    Christine Ebersole, War Paint
    Patti LuPone, War Paint
    Denee Benton, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Eva Noblezada, Miss Saigon

    Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical:
    Winner: Ben Platt, Dear Evan Hansen
    Josh Groban, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Andy Karl, Groundhog Day The Musical
    David Hyde Pierce, Hello, Dolly!
    Christian Borle, Falsettos

    Best Revival of a Musical:
    Winner: Hello Dolly!
    Falsettos
    Miss Saigon

    Best Play:
    Winner: Oslo
    Indecent
    A Doll’s House Part 2
    Sweat

    Best Revival of a Play:
    Winner: August Wilson’s Jitney
    John Guare’s Six Degrees of Separation
    Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    Present Laughter

    Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical:
    Winner: Rachael Bay Jones, Dear Evan Hansen
    Stephanie J. Block, Falsettos
    Jenn Colella, Come From Away
    Kate Baldwin, Hello Dolly!
    Mary Beth Pell, Anastasia

    Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play:
    Winner: Laurie Metcalf, A Doll’s House Part 2
    Jennifer Ehle, Oslo
    Sally Field, The Glass Menagerie
    Laura Linney, Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    Cate Blanchett, The Present

    Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play:
    Winner: Kevin Kline, Present Laughter
    Chris Cooper, A Doll’s House, Part 2
    Corey Hawkins, John Guare’s Six Degrees of Separation
    Denis Arndt, Heisenberg
    Jefferson Mays, Oslo

    Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play:
    Winner: Cynthia Nixon, Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    Jayne Houdyshell, A Doll’s House, Part 2
    Johanna Day, Sweat
    Condola Rasha, A Doll’s House, Part 2
    Michelle Wilson, Sweat

    Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical:
    Winner: Gavin Creel, Hello, Dolly!
    Mike Faist, Dear Evan Hansen
    Andrew Rannells, Falsettos
    Lucas Steele, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Brandon Uranowitz, Falsettos

    Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play:
    Winner: Michael Aronov, Oslo
    Danny DeVito, Arthur Miller’s The Price
    Nathan Lane, The Front Page
    Richard Thomas, Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    John Douglas Thompson, August Wilson’s Jitney

    Best Book of a Musical:
    Winner: Dear Evan Hansen, Steven Levenson
    Come From Away, Irene Sankoff and David Hein
    Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 Dave Malloy
    Groundhog Day The Musical, Danny Rubin

    Best Original Score:
    Winner: Dear Evan Hansen, Music & Lyrics: Benj Pasek & Justin Paul
    Come From Away, Music & Lyrics: Irene Sankoff and David Hein
    Groundhog Day The Musical, Music & Lyrics: Tim Minchin
    Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, Music & Lyrics: Dave Malloy

    Best Direction of a Play:
    Winner: Rebecca Taichman Indecent
    Ruben Santiago-Hudson, August Wilson’s Jitney
    Bartlett Sher, Oslo
    Daniel Sullivan, Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    Sam Gold, A Doll’s House, Part 2

    Best Direction of a Musical
    Winner: Christopher Ashley, Come From Away
    Rachel Chavkin, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Michael Greif, Dear Evan Hansen
    Matthew Warchus, Groundhog Day The Musical
    Jerry Zaks, Hello, Dolly!

    Best Choreography:
    Winner: Andy Blankenbuehler, Bandstand
    Peter Darling & Ellen Kane, Groundhog Day The Musical
    Kelly Devine, Come From Away
    Denis Jones, Holiday Inn, The New Irving Berlin Musical
    Sam Pinkleton, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812

    Best Orchestrations:
    Winner: Alex Lacamoire, Dear Evan Hansen
    Larry Hochman, Hello, Dolly!
    Bill Elliott & Greg Anthony Rassen, Bandstand
    Dave Malloy, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812

    Best Scenic Design of a Play:
    Winner: Nigel Hook, The Play That Goes Wrong
    David Gallo, August Wilson’s Jitney
    Douglas W. Schmidt, The Front Page
    Michael Yeargan, Oslo

    Best Scenic Design of a Musical:
    Winner: Mimi Lien, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    David Korins, War Paint
    Rob Howell, Groundhog Day The Musical
    Santo Loquasto, Hello, Dolly!

    Best Costume Design of a Play:
    Winner: Jane Greenwood, Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes
    Susan Hilferty, Present Laughter
    Toni-Leslie James, August Wilson’s Jitney
    David Zinn, A Doll’s House, Part 2

    Best Costume Design of a Musical:
    Winner: Santo Loquasto, Hello Dolly!
    Linda Cho, Anastacia
    Paloma Young, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Catherine Zuber, War Paint

    Best Lighting Design of a Play:
    Winner: Christopher Akerlind, Indecent
    Jane Cox, August Wilson’s Jitney
    Donald Holder,Oslo
    Jennifer Tipton, A Doll’s House, Part 2

    Best Lighting Design of a Musical:
    Winner: Bradley King, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
    Natasha Katz, Hello, Dolly!
    Howell Binkley, Come From Away
    Japhy Weideman, Dear Evan Hansen

  • Phoenix Rises From Red Ashes at Red Rocks

    There are certain things in life that move you in the most harmonious manner, that it sends chills down your spine. Phoenix was the cause of that exact sensation on a splendid and spectacular evening at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in colorful Colorado on Wednesday, June 7. The night was simply captivating, as giant natural rock formations surround you at this outside venue. An occasion like this should definitely be on a bucket list for those of you who have not had the chance to experience such an event at this magical place.

    phoenix red rocksThe night started off with an energetic group called The Lemon Twigs, who demonstrated their capacity to jam all while rocking funky outfits and made the crowd pop with extreme intrigue and positive responses. The audience slowly filled the arena and nature’s light began to dim. As their performance came to a close, boulders as crimson as can be started to glow underneath the moonlight in the background, and Miike Snow entered the stage not too long after that. As a Swedish indie pop band, they incorporated a sense of synthpop and alternative dance flare and gave fans a sweet taste for what’s to come next.

    Everyone was fooled that night; what was once a clear starry night moments before, took a turn for what was least expected. When it rains, it pours. However, the heaviest of downpours and even slight hail that evening surely didn’t stop the crowd from going wild. The weather gods somehow knew Phoenix was about to perform and it almost seemed like the rain was a grand opening display before an incredibly riveting performance. This French ensemble conquered the stage while standing on a giant LED platform and created a tantalizing memory to store in everyone’s minds. Thomas Mars soothed the surroundings with his vocals, Christian Mazzalai rocked on guitar, Deck d’Arcy on bass and keyboards, and Laurent Brancowitz on guitar and keyboards. The group included their touring members Robin Coudert on keyboards and percussion, as well as Thomas Hedlund on drums and percussion.

    This group’s style has developed over time only to create distinct soundwaves that hit one’s pleasure centers even more. Flavors of synth pop, alternative rock, and new wave filled the atmosphere all while including the French language in some of their masterpieces. This particular show at Red Rocks was actually the last one before they released their newest album, Ti Amo, which is now available for all to listen. It holds a unique and upbeat essence that puts the move in groove. They performed a couple fresh tunes off the new album such as “J-Boy” and “Ti Amo” as well. Certain underlying musical elements are discovered in the back beats of their songs. Other oldies magically graced the air including “If I Ever Feel Better,” “Lasso,” “Girlfriend,” “Trying to be Cool,” “Fences,” “Lisztomania” and “1901.”

    At the end of the performance, Thomas Mars of Phoenix entered the Red Rocks crowd as a personal closing of the night and shared that special moment with everyone around. ‘Twas a heart-warming and sincere performance with a sprinkle of friendliness. Phoenix rose and thus vanished into the night after wooing the crowd with their delectable sound.

  • Getting Weird at the 15th Strangecreek Campout

    Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend bookend the festival season, meaning many northeasterners start and end their summers at Camp Kee-Wanee in Greenfield, Mass., for the 15th Strangecreek and Wormtown Campouts.

    strangecreekLast week was the 15th annual Strangecreek, and the vibe was very focused around the family that had been built up over the years. Camp Kee-Wanee is the perfect spot to host this festival, with a picturesque green landscape that leads into the forest, which is cut in half by a stream running through the creek. The late night cabins make it as fun for ragers as all the kid friendly activities make it perfect for families.

    The four-day fete spanned May 26 to 29 and was a hit to everyone in attendance. Aside from the rain over the first two days, the festival went off without issue, and by the time the music was done late on Sunday night, everyone was left with ear-to-ear smiles.

    I wasn’t able to arrive until Friday evening, just as Consider the Source was soaring on the main stage. Prior to that, David Gans’ tribute to the Grateful Dead’s Ron “Pigpen” McKernan had fans singing the type of blues that only Pigpen could sing. Rebel Alliance and Relative Souls were prior.

    At 7:30 p.m., Shakedown took over the Vernville stage to play 90 minutes of the way they interpret the Grateful Dead. It was a very nice and relaxing way to segue back to the mainstage, where headliner Badfish brought the sunny spirit of Sublime to Strangecreek. It was a welcomed surprise to boogie down to one of my favorite bands from my teenage years.

    A few minutes before 11, I caught the tail end of Western Mass. group The Alchemystics and their genre melding blend of funk and hip hop.

    In the Keewanee Cabin, Tweed jammed, and jammed and jammed until the early morning hours, before Skeleton Keys brought a new spin on Grateful Dead music, using two pianos to interpret the legendary catalog. West End Blend and Bella’s Bartok were the late night acts at the Wormtown Cabin.

    After some late night campground shenanigans, I turned in to my tent and took a much needed rest. The cool mountain air, paired with a quiet camping area, made it easy to fall and stay asleep.

    The morning started with a delicious smoothie from the Solar Cafe and a bacon, egg and cheese from an independent vendor. By the time I got to the Vernville stage, Desert Rain was wrapping up, so I wandered to the Riverworm stage, nestled in the woods, to check out Rhythmic Circus, who were the perfect complement to the fair weather.

    A friend messaged me and told me not to miss The Broadcast, a three-piece group that played the main stage at 3 p.m. They brought a sort of straightforward approach to rock and roll, but mixed in some fiery soloing.

    Big Mean Sound Machine, The Fritz and Ryan Montbleau were up next, before a dinner break to get ready for the band I come to see every year: Max Creek.

    The four-piece band has been around since the late 1960s, and continues to innovate in the jam scene. Guitarist Scott Murawski has been playing a lot with Phish bassist Mike Gordon in recent years, and the duo’s partnership and style showed a lot during the show. Max Creek, years ago, sometimes felt like it was Murawski soloing over chord progressions, but this show featured a lot more in the ways of subtle rhythm shifts and deep grooves, which is similar to what he does with Gordon. And not to be forgotten is the Dead’s spirit, which is tattooed all over Max Creek’s live sets.

    Shakedown and Zach Deputy rocked the Wormtown late night cabin, and Keepers of the Vibe and the Z3 held down Kewanee.

    Sunday morning is what I’ve been looking to for a while. New York based group Cousin Earth was opening the Riverworm stage at 10:30 a.m. to bring their super unique, sometimes quirky and all-the-time fun and intricate music to Strangecreek for the first time. The five-piece band featured Joey Calfa on electric ukulele, Corey J. Feldman on a bass the size of a ukulele, Terry Brennan on vocals and percussion, Nate Searing on drums and Tara Lawton on vocals and melodica. They bring a Broadway vibe to rock and roll, and add in memories from your childhood, such as playing the Animaniacs theme song, or performing a video game medley. All in all, Cousin Earth was the most energizing set of the weekend, and I urge you to catch this band any chance you get.

    The Rev Tor Band and Hayley Jane and the Primates performed on the main stage, before Bella’s Bartok took another shot at the crowd. Bella’s Bartok is quite unique, with an indy rock feel and also a singalong sort of vibe. At one point, their singer sang a song while on an inflatable couch that the crowd was making surf.

    The Talking Dreads and Annie in the Water had the Vernville stage hopping, while Steal Your Peach brought the river to life.

    Eric Krasno of Soulive played a set with his solo band on the main stage right around the time people were learning that Gregg Allman had passed away.

    Zach Deputy, Pink Talking Fish and Pink Floyd tribute The Machine closed out the festival in grand fashion. Pink Talking Fish’s set consisted of all Phish material, adding another layer to the weekend.

    From September 15 to 17 at Kee-Wanee is Wormtown, which is put on by the same people. Melvin Seals and JGB and Max Creek are the headliners. You should really plan on attending if you want to experience one of the most amazing and laid back festivals in the country.

  • Hearing Aide: Danzig ‘Black Laden Crown’

    You find yourself in bed with the wind screaming outside your bedroom window like a banshee. Shadows dancing and morphing into sinister shapes upon the walls . Indeed the world is different once the warm embrace of the sun abandons us in the hands of the unknown abyss. Demons both of man and out of this world come out to play. Seducing  the weak and creating nightmares that no man should ever experience, but there will always be some who seek out these dreaded apparitions. For them there is a soundtrack that catches the beauty of the night, I am speaking of Danzig’s 2017 release Black Laden Crown (released via Evilive Records). Here is another album review for those who love all things metal and dark!

    Black Laden Crown is Danzig’s first original album since 2010’s release of Deth Red Sabaoth. The album features Glenn on vocals as usual and Tommy Victor behind the devil’s axe. You have Johnny Kelly, Joey Castillo, Karl  Rokfist, and Dirk Verbeuren featured on this release for drumming sessions on the album. Recorded at East West Studios in Hollywood, California, Danzig once again generated his own brand of metal mixed with blues with the help from the undead! The track that really sets the mood for the album is the first single, “Devil On Hwy 9,” which first premiered on Full Metal Jackie’s show Whiplash on April 02, 2017. This song starts with a strong, straight for the throat blues-induced attack. The guitar solo by Victor and the slow bass playing really creates that sense of becoming dangerous for the listener. The drumming on this track by Castillo is a savage skull beating, which no man can help but feel the tribal need to go out on a hunt. With the lyrics being so simple and addicting, fans will imagine themselves behind the wheel on a forbidden highway with demons flying by and cursing through the night. With Glenn’s vocals being so raw and deeply disturbing, it gives the track a real element of morbid obsession.  A perfect song to drive late at night. Just make sure you keep your eyes on the line!

    With “Devil On Hwy 9” being such a direct approach of pure danger and blood boiling elements, we see this element in some other songs like “But A Nightmare” (Dirk on drums). Now we all do love Danzig for his slower stuff as well. I am a blues and a metal fan at heart, but sometimes the slower songs can be much heavier in terms of approach compared to the aggressive counterparts. With the second single “Last Ride,” it has that eerie sensation running down your spine as if death is waiting for you to greet him in your blacken room. It is very much in the veins of Black Sabbath and The Doors with the slow bass line and  a wall of sound from the experienced mixing hand of Chris Rakestraw, which helps develops the vibe of the track.  You see this same direction on the final track on the album, “Pull The Sun.” These two songs contain so much dismay and loathing  you will find yourself drinking to these tunes at the bar with your friends. Pray that it is not your last drink my friend!

    This album is a solid release from start to finish. This album is perfect for both metal fans and blues fans. With so much influence from past and new releases, this album is in my top ten of favorite albums to be released  halfway through 2017. This album gets 4.5 out of 5 stars in terms of production, lyrics, and imagery. If you haven’t picked this beauty up, then you are missing out on something that is both dark and beautiful. Pick it up now through the  Danzig official site.

    Key Tracks: Last Ride, Devil On Hwy 9, Pull The Sun

  • The NYS Music Guide to the 2017 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival

    Starting June 23, and up until July 1, 2017, Rochester will once again become one of the hottest destinations for live jazz, and music in general. Once a year, for a nine-day stretch, the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Fest brings this medium-sized city wall-to-wall big city talent from across the globe. Headliners at the glorious Eastman Theatre, the Club Series making use of every viable hall in the East End neighborhood, and free shows filling the streets with sound; it’s a music lover’s paradise. With so much to see and hear, and only two eyes and two ears with which to take it all in, decisions must be made. Hit this, not that. But what? Well, that’s why we’re here. Here again we have compiled must-see acts for every type of fan. No matter what tune you’re singing as you stroll down Jazz Street, there’s something for you. Don’t forget to check out our tips for the best way to enjoy your time at the Rochester Jazz Fest.


    “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing”
    Are you more of a traditionalist? You’ll want to be at these sets:

    Miguel Zenon
    Puerto-Rican saxophonist Zenon is a Grammy winner and a Guggenheim and MacArthur Fellow. He brings his longtime quartet and the music from his fantastic new release, Tipico, which blends his Latin roots and adventurous hard bop for a sound that can be reminiscent of Horace Silver, with more than a few unexpected turns.
    June 26, Kilbourn Hall    , 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.; $35 or Club Pass

    Billy Childs Quartet
    Previously seen on a XRIJF stage as the pianist in Chris Botti’s band, Childs brings his own quartet this year, playing from his own impressive songbook. Perhaps he will throw in a Laura Nyro cover or two from his Reimagining Laura Nyro record, but more likely the set will lean heavily on his superb 2017 release, Rebirth.
    June 24, Kilbourn Hall, 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.; $35 or Club Pass

    4 By Monk By 4
    Four piano masters celebrating the works of a trailblazer and legend of jazz, Thelonious Monk. Kenny Barron, Benny Green, George Cables and Cyrus Chestnut will combine forces to do the man justice, playing together in various combinations. This has the all the makings of a special night of music.
    June 29, Lyric Theatre, 4:00 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass
    June 30, Kilbourn Hall, 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.; $35 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Kendrick Scott Oracle
    June 27, Xerox Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Hot Club of Cowtown
    June 28, Big Tent, 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.;$30 or Club Pass


    “It don’t mean a thang if it ain’t got that twang”
    In the, well this ain’t jazz category, here are some acts for the lovers of the tried and true roots and Americana tradition.

    The Jerry Douglas Band
    The unquestioned best dobro player around, Douglas might best be known these days for his work in Alison Krauss’ band, but he has been kicking around in the newgrass scene since it’s inception. He’ll be with his new band previewing his new album What If, which is out in mid-August.
    June 24, City of Rochester East Ave and Chestnut Street Stage, 9 p.m.; FREE

    John Paul White
    White found great success as the male half of the much acclaimed folk duo, The Civil Wars. Moving on from that project, White returned to his solo roots, plumbing the depths of Americana for his second solo effort, Buelah, released last year.
    June 25, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    The Dustbowl Revival
    An eight-piece that combines bluegrass, gospel, New Orleans swing and blues, they are no mere string revival band, mixing in some brass to throw it all for a unique loop.
    June 29, Montage Music Hall, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Jack Broadbent
    June 25, Montage Music Hall, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Lera Lynn
    June 26, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass


    “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got six strings”
    The festival has an unusually strong slate of guitar slingers this year.

    Bill Frisell & Thomas Morgan
    If the Jazz Fest existed for the singular purpose of getting Frisell to Rochester every couple of years it would be well worth it. Your favorite guitar player’s favorite guitar player, he is returning for his seventh festival. Every time he brings a different band and it never disappoints. This year he is presenting a duo set with bassist Thomas Morgan.
    June 25, Kilbourn Hall, 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.; $35 or Club Pass

    Matthew Stevens
    A major contributor to the sound behind Esperanza Spalding’s standout 2016 hit Emily’s D+Evolution, Stevens is out with a stunning brain melter of an album of his own this year, Preverbal. Angular and adventurous, you’re in for a thrilling ride at these sets.
    July 1, Wilder Room    , 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Eric Krasno
    The guitarist for jamband and XRIJF veterans Soulive, Krasno returns for a set with his own band. He has mixed in more rock and blues to the funk and soul, and even added vocals to the repertoire, but there’ll still be plenty of improvisation to go around.
    June 30, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Charlie Hunter Trio
    June 27, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    International Orange
    July 1, The Little Theatre, 7:00 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

     
    “It don’t mean a thing if I ain’t moving my thing”
    If you want to move while you listen, these are the acts that will have the crowd out of their chairs and on their feet. Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes.

    St. Paul and the Broken Bones
    Paul Janeway, an energetic singer with an electric and unique voice, leads this eight-piece soul band that turns heads wherever they go, wherever they’re heard. The streets will be a sea of dancers when they unleash music from their latest, Sea of Noise.
    June 23, City of Rochester East Ave and Chestnut Street Stage, 9 p.m.; FREE

    The Nth Power
    Soulful groove and dance music from a group borne from a late-night jam session at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, this is a young band quickly making a name for themselves for their electrifying live shows.
    June 23, Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Electric Kif
    Another energetic soulful quartet, this Miami band started as a side project for the members but quickly grew into something special and lasting.
    June 28, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Huntertones
    June 23, Montage Music Hall, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.
    June 24, Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass for either venue

    New Breed Brass Band
    June 26, Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.
    June 27, Montage Music Hall, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.    ; $30 or Club Pass for either venue


    “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that sing”
    If you want some vocals with your jazz, check out these shows.

    Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
    Scott Bradlee invited different musicians to play today’s popular music in specific classic styles and quickly grew his concept into a YouTube sensation. Be prepared to hear familiar songs as you’ve never heard them before. It makes for a truly unique and exciting live performance like you’ve never seen before. Browse the endless string of videos at his web site and you’ll get the idea fairly quickly.
    June 27, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 8 p.m.; $45 – $85

    Mavis Staples
    One of the few true living legends featured at this year’s festival, Mavis Staples is an American treasure that is still making new and relevant music. If you’re looking for some soul and gospel, accept no substitute.
    June 28, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 8 p.m.; $25 – $65

    Eivor
    As long as you’re in a church, you may as well listen to a voice from the heavens. From Norway’s Faroe Islands, Eivor will do nothing if not mystify you.
    June 24, Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Danielle Ponder and the Tomorrow People
    June 29, City of Rochester Midtown Stage, 7:00 p.m.; FREE

    Youn Sun Nah
    June 29, Harro East Ballroom, 5:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass


    “It don’t mean a thung if it ain’t fresh and young”
    People have been calling for the death of jazz for decades, but the youth keep reinvigorating the genre. Check out these younger acts to keep hip to what’s new. But if you want to catch the youngest talent, plan to catch some of the school bands gracing the Jazz Street stage throughout the festival.

    Phronesis
    This piano trio is making a very welcome return to the XRIJF lineup. The London Jazz News sums them up nicely: “established as one of the great trios. Three players, moving as one – head, heart and hands.”
    June 29, Christ Church, 6:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Neil Cowley Trio
    Like Phronesis, another brilliant British piano trio making their Jazz Fest return. These guys lean more heavily on the hook-laden melodies, adding a pop and rock sensibility to their compositions.
    June 24, Christ Church, 6:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Donny McCaslin Group
    The band behind David Bowie’s universally-lauded final album, Blackstar, this is jazz highly influenced and informed by that experience.
    July 1, Xerox Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Binker and Moses
    June 30, Christ Church, 6:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Jacob Collier
    June 23, Squeezers Stage at Anthology, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30p.m.; $30 or Club Pass


    “Doo wah, doo wah, doo wah, doo wah”
    And now for something a little different. When you invite bands from around the world you can get into some interesting and adventurous stuff.

    Shabaka and the Ancestors
    London-ite Shabaka Hutchens put together this ensemble of South African musicians, which recorded one of the most thrilling new records of 2016, The Wisdom of Elders. Spiritual afrocentric jazz that is equal parts soul-stirring and soul-soothing, in the vein of Coltrane or Sun Ra.
    June 25, Harro East Ballroom, 5:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Dakha Brakha
    This Ukrainian quartet plays music from another side of the world. Unusual, both visually and aurally, but quickly familiar and enjoyable, they blend tribal rhythms, chant-like singing and an odd mix of instruments into an infectious melting-pot of sound. This set will have Jazz Street talking.
    June 29, Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Dinosaur
    Led by trumpeter Laura Jurd, this young quartet plays creative instrumental music that rests in the crux of jazz, rock, electronic and funk.
    June 26, Christ Church, 6:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Also make time for…
    Klabbesbank
    June 28, Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    Ikonostasis
    June 26, Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; $30 or Club Pass

    See the full lineup and all of the festival details at RochesterJazz.com.

  • So Last Year Embarks on Summer Tour, with a Little Help from Their Friends

    So Last Year celebrated the first night of their summer tour with a hometown show at The California Brew Haus on June 3. The send off included performances by bands they’ve been sharing a stage with for some time: Maple Hill, Daily Milestone, Pilot The Universe, and Nostalgic Stereo. See the photo gallery at the end of the article for more pictures.

    So last year
    Logan Van Epps, Curtis Matteson, and Jason Campbell – So Last Year Photo by Corinne Cummings

    What The California Brew Haus lacks in style, it makes up for in character. The furnishings are worn in. Musicians load and unload gear through exit doors covered in band stickers. The wall behind the stage is plywood, hand painted with the name of the bar. But the food is good, the patrons are friendly, and the live shows rock.

    This night was no exception. We arrived when Maple Hill was taking the stage. The lively pop punk band from Ithaca played a set which included “Stomping Ground” from their 2016 album Headspace and “Well, Well, Well” from their earlier EP. Daily Milestone performed next. They had the audience clapping along to their catchy song “Silence.” It was announced that the drummer, Austin Porrata, will be moving to Nashville soon. He picked up an acoustic guitar and delivered a touching rendition of “Learning How To Love,” originally by Colony House.

    Then So Last Year was on. Frontman Logan Van Epps asked the audience to sing along to the intro. The band started playing the theme song to the show “Reading Rainbow,” and the crowd belted out the lines enthusiastically. They kept the momentum going with their song “The End of My Excuses pt.II,” a vibrant rock anthem with a strong beat. Fans clapped along and sang the chorus, “One day all we’ll have is stories and songs, but this is our chance to sing along… tonight.” They followed with their ballad  “You Can Imagine The Wild Times,” which showcases Van Epps’ vocal range, from soft and low to soaring heights.

    Also included in the set was the love song, “In Light of Summer,” which featured Van Epps on keyboard. This title track from their second album is also notable for its phenomenal guitar segments. Lead guitarist Jon Stowell positioned his hand over the top of the neck of his Les Paul, working over the fretboard with unbelievable speed and dexterity. Jason Campbell and Curt Matteson were a dynamic duo, and it was fun to watch them play rhythm guitar and bass, respectively. While Mitch VanDenBerge is a new addition to the band, he is a seasoned musician and performed admirably. They ended with “The Enchantment of Our Youth,” a song from the 2013 debut album.

    The disappointment of the end of So Last Year’s set was quickly replaced with curiosity as a group of kids (one decked out in a Boy Scout uniform and another in a karate school windbreaker) started setting up their gear. They hung up their band banner, with their logo and name Pilot The Universe. Jaws dropped when they started jamming some funky originals composed in band class. The five-piece outfit included a keyboard player, and the lead singer also played saxophone.

    Set included their most recent creation, “Koto.” Immediately following was Nostalgic Stereo from nearby Williamson. Playing exclusively alt rock covers from the past few decades, this is the band that time forgot. They got everyone to sing along to hits from Blink 182, Fallout Boy, and Yellowcard. Mid-set, lead vocalist Alan Overslaugh announced, “Let’s do something different.” Drummer Ty Palmer grabbed an acoustic guitar and the pair launched into a medley of emo ballads originally performed by the likes of We The Kings, Mayday Parade, and Dashboard Confessional. The finale was Blink 182’s “Dammit,” ending with Overslaugh saluting the audience from atop the monitor box, a thank you to the audience and send-off to So Last Year as they embark on their summer tour.

    Tour Dates:
    June 11 Boston MA – House Show
    June 15 Akron OH – The Overlook
    June 16 Kent OH – The Outpost
    June 17 Pittsburgh PA – Black Forge Coffee
    June 18 Buffalo NY – Buffalo Iron works
    June 25 Syracuse NY – Spark Art Gallery

  • Metallica Hits Nassau Coliseum for the Only Hardwired Tour Arena Show

    Metallica brought their Hardwired World Tour for the second of two stops in the New York Metro area on May 17 at the newly renovated Nassau Coliseum on Long Island.

    Volbeat kicked the night off with several of their new songs from Seal The Deal & Let’s Boogie along with a few of their previously released tunes. This wasn’t Volbeat’s first time supporting Metallica on tour either and their set was a treat for those who beat the Long Island rush hour traffic to get to the Barn before Metallica’s set.

    Metallica Nassau ColiseumMetallica’s Hardwired World Tour is entirely at large stadiums, except for the Nassau Coliseum show. While the stadiums certainly have their appeal for a monster show, nothing compares to catching one of the world’s biggest metal bands at a comparatively small indoor area (although their private fan club show at the 1,500-seat Webster Hall this past September might have this beat).

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BUOT4toFdv1/?taken-by=spm222photo

    The setlist had a tasty mix of what could be fit in a nearly two and a half hour show with just enough to tease their latest release Hardwired…To Self-Destruct and to satisfy the palate of the old school fans. Not to mention that the pick of songs was somewhat different than the MetLife Stadium show just a few nights prior.

    Metallica has been playing together for 36 years now, which is a well-seasoned career mark not every band sees. After the last sustained note of “Enter Sandman” and some stage banter, Hetfield noted that it was the eleventh time Metallica had played the Nassau Coliseum…and won’t be the last.

    Hardwired Tour – Metallica w/s/g Volbeat, Nassau Coliseum, May 17, 2017

    Setlists:

    Volbeat: The Devil’s Bleeding Crown, Seal the Deal, Heaven nor Hell, Sad Man’s Tongue, Black Rose, Let It Burn, 16 Dollars, Hallelujah Goat, Lola Montez, Dead but Rising, Still Counting

    Metallica: Hardwired, Atlas, Rise!, For Whom The Bell Tolls, Ride the Lightning, The Unforgiven, Now That We’re Dead, Moth Into Flame, Harvester Of Sorrow, Welcome Home (Sanitarium), Kirk/Rob Guitar/Bass solos, The Four Horsemen. Sad But True, One, Master of Puppets, Fade to Black, Seek and Destroy, Blackened

    Encore: Nothing Else Matters, Enter Sandman

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