Sometimes in life you need to stop stressing about everything, take a deep breath, and focus on what’s truly important; love, joy, adventure. That is exactly what the Somers, NY local Americana musician Dan Zlotnick did when he sat down and wrote his second album Bumpers. Driven by his soothing yet powerful voice, Zlotnick’s Zen-like stories of love and life inspire listeners to seek out the nearest mountain range and get lost in a world of childlike wonder.
Whether you are having your Sunday morning coffee, embarking on the road trip of the decade, or just need to smile, Bumpers is a versatile album worth revisiting again and again. The album begins on a genuine positive note with “Ballad of Dreamers,” a song that makes your body sway without realizing it and immediately establishes trust with the narrator, which bonds stronger as the album progresses. Throughout each track, Zlotnick speaks to the human element of who we are as a species and how, in many ways, we are all the same. Although we may seem different and lead individual lives, all everyone truly wants in life is to be happy. His thoughtful lyrics in the title track “Bumpers” reflect this as he urges listeners to enjoy every moment for what they are, good or bad, and reminds them that they owe it to themselves to be happy.
What separates DAn Zlotnick from other Americana musicians these days is the fact that he does not take anything too seriously. His songs are bright and full of joy, and it is clear without knowing him that he is a playful person. Songs like “Hide and Seek” and “Creatures” attest to this, for although they delve into a deeper romantic world at times there is always a juvenile sense of play at hand. If you are in the Hudson Valley you can catch Zlotnick perform live at the Towne Crier Cafe in Beacon (opening for Patty Larkin) Jan 20, or at the Paramount Theater in Peekskill (opening for Marc Cohn) Feb 16, and for a full list of shows visit DanZlotnick.com.
Key Tracks: Ballad of Dreamers, Bumpers, Creatures
Event booking and promotions company Hey Dude After Hours has just announced the lineup to their three day folk festival, “Folk City” at Photo City Comedy and Improv in Rochester. The event will run on Friday Feb. 16, Saturday Feb. 17, and Sunday Feb. 18. Folk City festival will be raising money for REACH (Rochester Engaging in Action for the Chronically Homeless). As the acronym implies, REACH collaborates to create safe, financially sustainable, housing options to meet the needs of chronically homeless individuals by ensuring services needed and encouraging mutual care.
One-day passes will cost $15 pre-sale or $20 at the door. Two-day passes come at a pre-sale price of $25, and a full three-day pass is marked at $40 pre-sale and includes a free drink. Tickets can be purchased through cnytix.com.
Imagine a cross between the shows Off Camera with Sam Jones and NPR’s Tiny Desk. Picture the best musicians in the local scene performing and being interviewed at neighborhood venues. And then envision yourself being part of a live audience. For music lovers in Rochester, this is a reality. Music journalist Dan Gross has devoted the past year and a half to bringing this vision to life.Rochester Indie Musician Spotlight highlights the best of the rich and diverse music scene in Rochester, which was recently voted best music town by staff in the Best of NYS Music poll.
With an exciting lineup of guests and the support of sponsors, Rochester Indie Musician Spotlight’s “Season5” promises to be exciting. “We want to make this the biggest season yet,” Gross told NYS Music. During the off season, he lined up a slew of talented performers. To support the expansion of the program to sixteen episodes, new and returning sponsors are pledging support. One of the new partnerships has led to the creation of a spin-off series. To top it all off, a fundraising campaign this month may make it possible to to air the series on television, in addition to the web.
Rochester’s Premiere Music Interview and Performance Series
“Season 5” will showcase sixteen musical acts representing a variety of genres. Among the guests slated to appear are Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist Jimmie Highsmith Jr., beloved folk band The Honey Smugglers, blues singer/pianist Hanna PK, and comedic songs by Small Signals from their Missed Connections album. This season concludes with the series’ landmark fiftieth episode.
The majority of episodes are filmed at Bop Shop Records, an independent record shop that carries a wide array of music and specializes in fine condition vinyl. Serving the community since 1982, the shop was originally in Village Gate and is now located at 1460 Monroe Ave. It was the first sponsor of the Spotlight, a partner since the second season in mid-2016. Gross is grateful for the the shop’s owner, Tom Kohn, as the use of venue space allowed the show to expand from a straight interview program to a mixed interview and concert format.
“To say that Bop Shop Records is the reason this show is happening is an exceptional understatement,” Gross said. “This place – a space dedicated to kindness, building a community and helping people, and great music and records regardless of genre – are the same values that the Spotlight lives by.”
“We really enjoyed being able to perform at Bop Shop,” said Marty LoFaso of Tart Vandelay. “The show is a great, one-of-a-kind aspect of our music scene.”
Filling a Niche
The longevity of Rochester Indie Musician Spotlight can be credited to both the quality of programming and the high standards established by Gross. After graduating college with a double major in Broadcasting and Music, he has found many outlets for his talents. He has bylines as a writer for the Democrat and Chronicle and Eastman School of Music. He’s on the crew of the local web show My Hometown. You can also find Gross hosting and producing the music interview podcast “Extended Harmony” for jazz record label Outside In Music and hosting a show on Jazz 90.1 on Mondays from 6-8pm.
Gross started Rochester Indie Musician Spotlight because he wanted to find a way to combine his broadcast journalism skills with his deep appreciation for the Rochester music scene.
“The philosophy of the show has always been to try to come at it with a journalistic approach,” said Gross. “I believe one of the reasons the show is successful is that it’s not gimmicky… The show doesn’t substitute a gimmick for meaningful material.”
The overarching goal is to become a benchmark for musicians, providing them with not only exposure to a wider audience and a shareable video, but to be able to become a stepping stone in their career. “I want my show to get to the point where if you’ve come on, that’s a stepping point for you,” Gross said. “I want to give people that ‘Spotlight boost.’”
“If you’re not doing it to help someone out, what’s the point?” Gross went on to explain. “That’s the difference between content and something that’s meaningful, is that it’s about people. Content is about views. But I’m trying to help people. There are people who live here who don’t understand how much live music is here, or how important Rochester is as an arts community.”
Growing The Local Scene
The show has grown from humble DIY beginnings with Gross conducting interviews and friend Stacey Baran on camera. Gross has operated the program on a shoestring budget, learning how to do a multitude of technical tasks himself, including audio mixing and color correcting video. He still tries to do as much as he can to contain costs. He’s deeply thankful to everyone who has helped the program to grow. From videographers Jason Thibault (producer of My Hometown) and Dallas Greene to a growing number of musicians, viewers, and sponsors.
“This show is not possible without other people,” said Gross. In addition to connecting musicians with an audience, the show promotes local independent businesses and venues which promote the local music scene.Bernunzio Uptown Music, a shop renowned for its quality vintage instruments, has hosted some of the Spotlight shows. Rowe Photo, Video and Audio, a place where Gross has bought some of the equipment he uses to record the sessions, was also an early supporter of the Spotlight.
Gross has been announcing new sponsors who will also be backing the program this year, including restaurant and roastery Joe Bean Coffee Roasters which features live jazz weekly and instrument sales/rental/repair shop Sound Source. There’s also a new partnership with Three Heads Brewing which launched a monthly series The Rochester Residency. The “Spotlight Spinoff” videos will highlight featured artist of the month.
The first installment of the “Spotlight Spinoff” with this month’s resident Fran Broderick was released last week. In the debut episode, Gross and Broderick chat at the brewery about Fran’s musical background. Broderick also gives viewers insight into the plans for his sets every Thursday in January: a week doing an acoustic set, another week with his band Friday in America, the third week playing Warren Zevron’s Excitable Boy with a handful of musical guests, and releasing his new album on the final week. The interview is book-ended with some clips of Broderick playing his original songs on acoustic guitar.
In addition to local business owners, viewers can also become patrons of the show. Donors to the Spotlight’s first crowd sourcing campaign are entitled to a variety of perks at various levels, including t-shirts, coupons or swag bags from sponsors, and being recognized in show credits.
If the indiegogo fundraiser reaches its target of $3,500, it will enable Rochester Indie Musician Spotlight to make the leap to television. Airing on television as well as being posted to the internet will help the show reach a wider audience. “If everyone who has ever “liked” the Facebook page gave $5, we’d reach our goal,” said Gross.
During the countdown leading up the highly anticipated “Season5,” Gross is replaying some of the episodes from the first four seasons. You can find them on Facebook at Dan Gross: Music & Journalism . Hit the follow button to get the scoop on upcoming events and new episodes.
A very Happy New Year from NYS Music! If your New Year’s resolution is to see more memorable shows in 2018, NYS Music is bringing you the rundown of all the can’t-miss shows around you in New York this January. The featured cities this month include Buffalo, Syracuse and Rochester.
Buffalo – Nietzsche’s
January 6th – Come out to Nietzsche’s for some funk and soul music from the group Tiger Chung Lee, accompanied by Rhubarb. Hit the event link for more details! Event link.
January 13th – For a night full of dynamic funky music, come see the English Project take Nietzsche’s with their groovy improvisation with Mosswalk, the progressive rock group who brings an immersive live music experience, and 18 Wheels and a Crowbar. Event link.
January 20th – The group LITZ blends together a multitude of genres to bring a new, exciting sound for listeners that has the power to transport audiences to another place, free from the stresses of life. To hear a variety of everything from soul, electronica, jam and funk, catch them at Nietszche’s with Cold Lazarus. Event link.
January 26th – Nietzsche’s is bringing you a day packed full of live music on the 26th. Start early with a free show at Happy Hour featuring The Fibs. Then come back for more at 10 PM to see Swimmer, Skyepilot and Haewa for a mix of experimental rock-fusion, genre-bending psychedelia, and rock ‘n’ roll. Event link.
Syracuse – Funk ‘N Waffles
As per usual, Funk ‘N Waffles is providing Syracuse (and Rochester) with live music 7 days a week. All shows are 18+ unless advertised otherwise.
January 5th – The soul powerhouse group, West End Blend, will be at Funk ‘n Waffles with special guest Akuma Roots, the reggae, afro beat, and dance hall group. Event link.
January 6th – The Last Revel, the Americana trio will be showcasing their blend of folk, rockabilly, rock and old time string band sounds with hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies with special guests the Slocan Ramblers Event link.
January 12th – Don’t miss the dream-like indie-rock sounds of Major Player with special guest Multi-Fonz. Event link.
January 16th – Nick Moss with special guest Jimmy Wolfe will be at Funk ‘n Waffles for a night of bluesy rock and roll. Event link.
January 17th – “Three dudes making one hell of a racket!” Don’t miss MonkeyJunk’s swamp roots rock on the 17th. Event link.
January 18th – The Rochester-native 12 piece reggae and afro-beat band, The Medicinals, will be performing for the first time with Brooklyn Producer Double Tiger featuring Jay Sparker of JBB. Event link.
January 24th – Come out and see the pre-war blues and string band inspired sounds of the Ben Miller Band with special guest Tim Herron. Event link.
January 25th – For a unique bluegrass version of the Grateful Dead, come see the Grass is Dead with David Gans. Event link.
January 26th – Blue Rootz, the funk and soul band from Buffalo will be performing with Burlington-based indie group Barika. Event link.
January 27th – Brutal by Design Presents: Mushroom Cloud with Big Sexy and the Scrambled Eggs for a night of explosive rock music. Event link.
January 31th – Independent soul artist Joanna Teters will be at Funk ‘n Waffles with special guests Ramshki Alley and Doug Mason. Event link.
Rochester – Funk ‘N Waffles
January 5th – Before The Last Revel and Slocan Ramblers perform in Syracuse, catch them in Rochester for a bold blend of Americana inspired sound. Event link.
January 12th – Milkgang Presents: Space Junk with SKYwalker. Come out for an always unique performance by these dynamic artists. Event link.
January 13th – Mumur a Tribute to R.E.M. will be bringing their dynamic and precise recreation of the sounds of R.E.M. to Rochester. Event link.
January 17th – Don’t miss the original Americana and roots sounds of the group Stay the Plow with Michael Jerling on the 17th. Event link.
January 18th – MonkeyJunk will be moving onto Rochester following their Syracuse show. Event link.
January 19th – After the Medicinals with Double Tiger take Syracuse with Jay Sparker of JBB, they’ll be bringing Rochester another can’t-miss show. Event link.
January 24th – To remind the people of Rochester about the power of rock ‘n’ roll, River Lynch & The Spiritmakers will be performing with special guests The Mighty High and Dry as well as Dangerbyrd. Event link.
January 25th – Hosted by David Abdoch with headliner Mike Bova, the NY native, award winning comedian and inspirational speaker, and featuring Big Ern, The Big and Tall Comedy Tour is coming through Rochester and is sure to keep you laughing. Event link.
January 26th – Jack Martini will be bringing his hip-hop/60’s rock-inspired and playfully humorous music accompanied by rock, ska, and jazz blended sound of The Saplings. Event link.
January 27th – If you miss Blue Rootz and Barika at Syracuse, make sure to catch them on the 27th for another night of incredible music. Event link.
The 121st Saranac Lake Winter Carnival starts February 2, 2018 and features 17 acts over eight days. Among the list of local and national bands slated to perform are regional favorites Donna The Buffalo, Sophistafunk, and Lucid. All performances take place at The Waterhole Music Lounge in Saranac Lake. For the first time ever, VIP passes are available, which entitle the purchaser to all shows during the carnival as well as special cocktail hours. Tickets are available at the Waterhole or online. The folks at The Waterhole also put together a Spotify playlist of all the featured artists:
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival 2018
February 2– O’Death with Tigerman Woah & Arthur Buezo – 9pm $13 Adv $15 Door February 3 – Kung Fu with The English Project – 9pm $17 Adv $20 Door February 6 – Swampcandy – FREE SHOW 9pm Downstairs February 7 – Sophistafunk with Jiggawaltz – 9pm $10 Adv $12 Door February 8 – Donna the Buffalo with The Old Main – 8:30 pm $18 Adv $22 Door February 9 – Lucid with Bella’s Bartok – 9pm $20 February 10 – Post Parade Party with Raisinhead – 2pm “After the Parade” FREE SHOW February 10 – West End Blend with The Big Takeover – 9pm – $10 February 11– The Plate Scrapers at Bloody Mary Sunday – FREE SHOW – 2pm Downstairs
One day photographer Michael Slattery found himself chasing elusive clouds with his camera, only to find the perfect shot in his passenger side mirror. Like the artwork memorialized on its cover, Reflections by Dave DiPrimo Band grasps for things in the past, just beyond reach. It’s an album rife with ruminations and dwellings.
At a time when many of their college-age peers are churning out angsty pop punk, Dave DiPrimo and his bandmates are composing alternative folk songs featuring soulful saxophone riffs. DiPrimo makes references to his maturity in the song “Fall Down,” with the lines “You can call me old fashioned/I prefer to be called an old soul.” Weaving in threads from influences as wide and varied as Otis Redding and The Front Bottoms, Reflections is a contemporary yet traditional tapestry of Americana.
The title track “Know You Best” sets the nostalgic tone for the poetic, introspective collection. It’s a song about unrequited love and longing for connection. It alternates between pleading verses and a bellowing chorus. “Now” is another contemplative track, rueful oozing with melancholy. “Every day it gets a little bit colder/ every day I get a little bit older,” sings DiPrimo. The slight distortion on guitar lends a distant, dreamy effect. The melody is set to the a rat-tat-tat drum beat laid down by Reid Hoffmeier and deep rhythms from Ian Benz on bass. The saxophone played by Karis Gregory is featured prominently on the bittersweet ballad “Caroline.” The indie rock anthem “Glory Days,” wraps up the album, ending on a slightly higher note with remembrances of happy times.
Dave DiPrimo Band recorded Reflections in a single day at The Green Room. The 9-song collection was mixed and produced by studio owner Matt Ramerman. CD’s are available at their live shows. The album can be found digitally on multiple music platforms, including Spotify and iTunes.
Key Tracks: Know You Best, Fall Down, Now, Caroline, Glory Days
Albany local Cosby Gibson has released her new album Into Mid-Air on November 17, 2017. Gibson’s previous album, Talking to Echos is an award winner for Best Folk Album in 2017 and was also accepted to the first ballot for Grammy consideration. Gibson performs in solo and duo acts, and leads a non-profit music performance troupe.
With a positive reputation, Gibson’s music is an experience to be had. Into Mid-Air contains thirteen tracks, one of which holds the title of the album. “Whispers on the Water,” the third track on the album, starts with the happy, twinkling sound of guitar, only to then blend with Gibson’s voice. Her voice is soulful and holds a carefree quality to it, making her songs that much more down to Earth. All of her music is “low-fi,” meaning that the sound is more organic. In this case, that sound adds to the “self-made” feeling Gibson’s music gives off. “Into Mid-Air,” the title track of the album, is a shorter tune with a deeper sound quality, adding some contrast to the album. There is a recurring theme in her lyrics, showing off the fact that her musical inspiration oftentimes comes from nature itself. Gibson’s style could be considered “earthy” as a whole, making each of these musical elements blend together quite nicely.
Gibson herself seems to be a free spirit. It is notable in her songs, in her style, and in her live performance. If carefree, folky tunes are a sound you would enjoy exploring, Gibson might just be a listen for you.
Key Tracks: Whispers on the Water, Never Did Let Go, Into Mid-Air
Whether you are having your Sunday morning coffee, embarking on the road trip of the decade, or just need to smile, Bumpers is a versatile album worth revisiting again and again. The album begins on a genuine positive note with “Ballad of Dreamers,” a song that makes your body sway without realizing it and immediately establishes trust with the narrator, which bonds stronger as the album progresses. Throughout each track, Zlotnick speaks to the human element of who we are as a species and how, in many ways, we are all the same. Although we may seem different and lead individual lives, all everyone truly wants in life is to be happy. His thoughtful lyrics in the title track “Bumpers” reflect this as he urges listeners to enjoy every moment for what they are, good or bad, and reminds them that they owe it to themselves to be happy.
One day photographer Michael Slattery found himself chasing elusive clouds with his camera, only to find the perfect shot in his passenger side mirror. Like the artwork memorialized on its cover, Reflections by Dave DiPrimo Band grasps for things in the past, just beyond reach. It’s an album rife with ruminations and dwellings.
With a positive reputation, Gibson’s music is an experience to be had. Into Mid-Air contains thirteen tracks, one of which holds the title of the album. “Whispers on the Water,” the third track on the album, starts with the happy, twinkling sound of guitar, only to then blend with Gibson’s voice. Her voice is soulful and holds a carefree quality to it, making her songs that much more down to Earth. All of her music is “low-fi,” meaning that the sound is more organic. In this case, that sound adds to the “self-made” feeling Gibson’s music gives off. “Into Mid-Air,” the title track of the album, is a shorter tune with a deeper sound quality, adding some contrast to the album. There is a recurring theme in her lyrics, showing off the fact that her musical inspiration oftentimes comes from nature itself. Gibson’s style could be considered “earthy” as a whole, making each of these musical elements blend together quite nicely.