NYS Music 20​18

Category: News

  • Estate of George Harrison Presents HariSongs Label

    George Harrison left a vast legacy, part of it in the form of his collection of rare recordings. The Estate of George Harrison has partnered with Craft Recordings to create the HariSongs label.

    Selections of world music will be released from Harrison’s archives. Along with the announcement comes the digital-only release of two out-of-print albums: Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan In Concert 1972 and the last collaboration by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar, Chants of India. For the first time, this music will be available to enjoy and share on streaming platforms.

    About In Concert 1972:

    “In Concert 1972 was originally released via Apple Records in 1973, with a statement that read: “Within the small community of Brilliantly Gifted Musicians there exists an even smaller world of Masters. Two of these masters recently joined together in concert …” The album features two of Indian Classical music’s greatest artists at the height of their powers, the sitar maestro Ravi Shankar and master of the sarod, Ali Akbar Khan. The album captures the live recordings from a performance that took place at New York City’s Philharmonic Hall on October 8, 1972 and was produced by George Harrison (with Zakir Hussain and Phil McDonald). Featuring tabla accompaniment by the great Alla Rakha, this mesmerizing concert comprises three ragas played in the jugalbandistyle (or a duet played by two solo musicians) and became a poignant tribute to the guru of both soloists (and the father of Ali Akbar), the great Allauddin Khan, who had died but a month previously. Audio for this reissue was sourced from the original master 1/4″ analogue tapes which were digitized at FPSHOT (Friar Park Studio Henley On Thames) and remastered by Paul Hicks, Gavin Lurssen & Reuben Cohen at Lurssen Mastering (Hi-Res 96/24 and 192/24 audio also available).”

    Stream or download In Concert here.

    About Chants of India:

    “Chants of India by Ravi Shankar and produced by George Harrison was originally released in 1997 on Angel Records. Recorded in Madras, India, and Henley-on-Thames, UK, this collaboration was referred to by Shankar as “one of the most difficult challenges in my life, as a composer and arranger”, and draws upon the sacred Sanskrit texts of the Vedas, Upanishads and other scriptures. He added, “the repetitive use of mantras invoke a special power within oneself and I have tried to imbibe this age-old tradition in this recording… into which I have poured my heart and soul.” Audio for this reissue was sourced from the original Digital master tapes, also remastered by Paul Hicks, Gavin Lurssen & Reuben Cohen at Lurssen.”

    Stream or download Chants of India here.

  • Ace Frehley releases new song ‘Bronx Boy’

    On April 27, Ace Frehley celebrated his birthday and released a new song, proclaiming that after all these years, he’s still a “Bronx Boy.” The song is a the first single from his upcoming eighth studio album. No date or title yet on the new release, but the first release has a lot of old-school rock and roll grit that shows the co-founding Kiss is still a contender. Rumor has it the new album will be out this summer.

    Paul Daniel Frehley was born and raised in The Bronx (Boy), New York City, the youngest of three children of Esther Anna (Hecht) and Carl Daniel Frehley.

    Frehely grew up on the corner of Marion Avenue and 201st Street, off Bedford Park Boulevard (also known as 200th Street) and Webster Avenue in the Bedford Park section of the Bronx.

    bronx boy ace frehely

    Frehely invented the persona of The Spaceman (a.k.a. Space Ace) and played with the group from its inception in 1973 until his departure in 1982. After leaving Kiss, Frehley embarked on a solo career, which was put on hold when he rejoined Kiss in 1996 for a highly successful reunion tour.

    Frehley’s second tenure with Kiss lasted until 2002, when he left at the conclusion of what was originally purported to be the band’s Farewell Tour. His most recent solo album, Origins Vol. 2, was released on September 18, 2020. Guitar World magazine ranked him as the 14th Greatest Metal Guitarist of All Time. Outside Kiss, Frehley had commercial success, with his first solo album going platinum. His first album with his “Frehley’s Comet” band was also a big seller. Frehley is noted for his aggressive, atmospheric and melodic guitar playing and is also known for the use of many “special effects” guitars, including a Gibson Les Paul guitar that emits smoke from the neck humbucker pickup and produces spinning pyrotechnics, and a custom Les Paul that emits light based on song tempo.

  • Upstate Punk Band Surmiser Announces Upcoming EP ‘Hold The Static’

    Surmiser’s latest EP, Hold The Static, will be available on June 8. The grungy garage punk band will celebrate the release with a show on June 9 at The People’s Cauldron in Rosendale. The band issued a music video for “Trains,” from the upcoming release, which debuted at New Noise Magazine.

    ‘Trains’ is about dead-end life in a small city and an analogy to the way that people in this place, and indeed these types of places, allow themselves to be derailed by anger, addiction and the patterns created of the previous generations mistakes.

    The video was shot by shot by Mike Parish of 424recording.com. Jay Andersen at Bohemesphere in Saugerties recorded and mixed Hold The Static. It was mastered by Oliver Ackermann at Death By Audio, Brooklyn, NY.

    Follow Surmiser for the latest news and show listings.

  • Deep Purple and Judas Priest Announce Summer North American Tour

    With one hundred years of rock and roll experience combined, Deep Purple, and Judas Priest have announced that they will team up for a co-headlining, 25-city tour across North America.

    Three of those twenty five cities on the tour will include stops in New York starting on Aug. 9, at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, Aug. 2, at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, and Aug. 5, at the Darien Lake Amphitheater in Darien Center.

    Since its formation in 1968, Deep Purple has released 20 studio albums throughout its 50 year career including 2017’s Infinite. The band has sold over 100 million albums world-wide and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on 2016.

    Formed in 1969, Judas Priest has recorded eighteen studio albums, selling over 50 million world-wide. The band won a Grammy award in 2010 for Best Metal Performance for the song “Dissident Aggressor.”  The band’s latest studio effort, Firepower, released in March is its most successful album, selling 49,000 copies the first week and debuting at number five on the Billboard 200 chart.

    Deep Purple/Judas Priest North America Tour Dates: 

    Aug. 21 – Riverbend Music Center – Cincinnati, OH
    Aug. 22 – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre – Chicago, IL
    Aug. 24 – Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill – Detroit, MI
    Aug. 25 – Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort – Mt. Pleasant, MI*                                                                           Aug. 27 – FirstOntario Centre – Hamilton, ON
    Aug. 29 – Bell Centre – Montreal, QC
    Aug. 30 – Centre Videotron – Quebec City, QC
    Sept. 1 – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater – Wantagh, NY
    Sept. 2 – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – Bethel Woods, NY
    Sept. 5 – Darien Lake Amphitheater – Darien Lake, NY
    Sept. 6 – PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ
    Sept. 8 – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach – Virginia Beach, VA
    Sept. 9 – BB&T Pavilion – Camden, NJ
    Sept. 11 – PNC Music Pavilion – Charlotte, NC
    Sept. 12 – Daily’s Place – Jacksonville, FL
    Sept. 14 – Verizon Amphitheatre – Atlanta, GA
    Sept. 16 – Mississippi Coast Coliseum – Biloxi, MS
    Sept. 18 – Starlight Theatre – Kansas City, MO
    Sept. 20 – Treasure Island Casino – Welch, MN*
    Sept. 21 – Harrah’s Council Bluffs – Council Bluffs, IA*
    Sept. 23 – Pepsi Center – Denver, CO
    Sept. 26 – Mattress Firm Amphitheatre – San Diego, CA
    Sept. 27 – FivePoint Amphitheatre – Irvine, CA
    Sept. 29 – Shoreline Amphitheatre – Mountain View, CA
    Sept. 30 – Toyota Amphitheatre – Wheatland, CA

  • EDM Artist Avicii Found Dead

    Swedish EDM DJ/Producer Avicii, has been found dead in Muscat, Oman at the young age of 28. No details have been released as to the cause of his death.

    Avicii

    Born Tim Bergling, Avicii, days ago posted on social media that he was honored to be nominated for Top Dance/Electronic album at this years upcoming Billboard Music Awards on May 20 for his EP Avicii. The DJ/producer was in the middle of a music career re-launch after a spiritual rebirth he had while traveling to Peru since retiring.

    Avicii’s publicist, Diana Baron made the following statement about his passing: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known a Avicii. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given.”

    In 2016, Avicii shocked the world with the announcement of his retirement from active touring. In 2014, he was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis due to excessive drinking. He started producing music at sixteen and by the end of his brief career collaborated with artists such as Madonna, Santana, Aloe Blacc, David Guetta, Imagine Dragons, Rita Ora and Coldplay.

    Avicii, along with other DJ/producers like Guetta and Calvin Harris, helped the EDM genre cross over into the pop side of the music world with his song “Wake Me Up,” opening doors for other EDM artists like Zedd and the Chainsmokers. In 2010, Avicii released the song “Seek Bromance,” under a shortened version of his real name Tim/Berg, and stands as an classic EDM track.

    Several artists from the EDM world and other genres have taken to social media to express their feelings about the loss of Avicii.

    Calvin Harris: “Devastating news about Avicii, a beautiful soul, passionate and extremely talented with so much more to do. My heart goes out to his family. God bless you Tim x”

    Charlie Puth: “Wow. I would like to take a moment to pay tribute to the man who really opened my eyes as to what my productions could one day sound like. @Avicii was a genius and a music innovator, and I can not believe he is no longer with us. RIP to the very best.”

    Madonna posted a photo of her and Avicii and stated: “So Sad……. So Tragic. Good Bye Dear Sweet Tim. Gone too Soon.”

    Zedd: “No words can describe the sadness I’m feeling right now, hearing about Avicii passing away….
    Thoughts go out to his family and friends…”

    3LAU: “I cannot express enough that @Avicii revolutionized dance music, and effortlessly. An unparalleled writer and one of my biggest inspirations will be remembered and missed for centuries to come. We love you Tim”

    Deadmau5: “My sincerest and most heartfelt condolences to the friends, fans and families of @Avicii 🙁 Banter aside, nobody can deny what he has accomplished and done for modern dance music and im very proud of him.”

    Marshmello: “At a loss for words…Rest easy brother @Avicii”

    Dillon Francis: “RIP @Avicii you will be insanely missed…my deepest condolences to his family.”

    Imagine Dragons: “Devastated at the news of @Avicii passing. working with him was one of my favorite collaborative moments. far too young. the world was a happier and fuller place with his presence and art. sending all my love to his friends and family. Xxdr”

    Aloe Blacc: “My heartfelt condolences to Tim’s family and close friends. I can’t express how deeply sad I am. Meeting him changed my life. He was an amazingly talented person and it hurts so bad that he’s gone.”

    Martin Garrix: “Can’t really describe in words how sad I feel right now.. thank you for inspiring me and millions others. RIP @Avicii”

    Rita Ora: “I have no words. I remember how amazing it was to make Lonely Together and it felt like just yesterday we were talking. Condolences to Avicii’s family, friends, and the fans who supported him. May he rest in peace. Gone too soon. I’m devastated. Heartbroken.”

    Kascade: “@Avicii was talented and kind, and I was genuinely excited to see what would come next from him. His future most certainly should have been written beyond age 28. I am heartbroken. Rest easy Tim.”

  • BB King’s Blues Club & Grill To Close Doors in NYC

    BB King’s Blues Club & Grill in NYC’s Times Square announced that it will be closing its doors, citing a rent hike as the reason for closing. The lineup for the final week includes shows by William Bell’s Memphis Soul Revue (April 22), Rick Ross (April 23), Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh (April 25), El Gran Combo (April 26), and George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic (April 28). The finale on April 29 features Buddy Guy. Tickets are on sale now.

    photo: Steve Malinski, NYS Music

    “Despite many sold out shows, the location’s rent escalated to an unsustainable level, leaving us no choice but to close our doors. Unfortunately this has become a growing trend in New York City, with other iconic music venues and businesses falling victim to opportunistic property owners. This venue’s legacy extends much further than the stage, playing a role in Times Square’s revitalization two decades ago. It is a shame that wasn’t taken into consideration regarding its future in the area. Nevertheless, we feel extremely grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from both fans and artists over the years to create some truly historic and incredible memories in this space. We hope that we can find a new place to call home very soon so we can continue bringing live music to you all.”

    – Tsion Bensusan, chief operating officer

    B.B. King Blues Club & Grill Closing Week Celebration Show Schedule:
    April 17 & 18 Buddy Guy
    April 22 William Bell’s Memphis Soul Revue
    April 23 Rick Ross
    April 25 Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh + Special Guests
    April 26 El Gran Combo
    April 28 George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic + Special Guests
    April 29 Buddy Guy

  • Huey Lewis Discloses Hearing Loss

    Huey Lewis And The News have announced that they are cancelling all upcoming performances. The announcement is on the advice of doctors whom Lewis has consulted regarding recent hearing loss. In an online statement, Lewis stated:

    Two and a half months ago, just before a show in Dallas, I lost most of my hearing. Although I can still hear a little, one on one, and on the phone, I can’t hear music well enough to sing. The lower frequencies distort violently making it impossible to find pitch. I’ve been to the House Ear Institute, the Stanford Ear Institute, and the Mayo Clinic, hoping to find an answer. The doctors believe I have Meniere’s disease and have agreed that I can’t perform until I improve. Therefore the only prudent thing to do is to cancel all future shows. Needless to say, I feel horrible about this, and wish to sincerely apologize to all the fans who’ve already bought tickets and were planning to come see us. I’m going to concentrate on getting better, and hope that one day soon I’ll be able to perform again.

    Huey Lewis Hearing Loss

    Huey Lewis and the News hit the rock scene in the 80’s, achieving 13 Billboard Top Ten singles and selling millions of records worldwide. Over the past few decades, they have been continually active, performing live and recording a total of nine studio albums. Last fall, they released a 3-disc career-spanning set entitled Collected. 

    Since opening up about his hearing loss, Lewis has received an outpouring of support, for which he expressed his gratitude in a separate statement. “The response from my colleagues, friends and fans has been truly overwhelming. And extremely heartening. It helps me to focus on improving, and finding a way to sing again. Thanks to everyone.”

    Read our review of Huey Lewis and the News at Tarrytown Music Hall on the 30th anniversary tour in celebration of Sports.

  • Kendrick Lamar Wins Pulitzer Prize for Music

    Columbia University announced the 2018 Pulitzer Prize Winners on Monday afternoon. In the category of music, the Pulitzer Prize Board chose Hip Hop artist Kendrick Lamar for his critically acclaimed album DAMN., which was released one year ago. In a statement, the committee called the work:

    a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life.

    Kendrick Lamar at Pitchfork Music Festival 2014

    Lamar is the first rapper to win the prestigious Pulitzer Prize, which has traditionally been awarded to jazz or classical artists. The prize is named for Hungarian-born journalist and publisher Joseph Pulitzer. Pulitzer has been described as an innovator, a visionary, and a passionate crusader. In his will, he made provisions for fourteen prizes for excellence in journalism and related arts. It has since expanded to twenty one categories, including music.

    Dana Canedy, administrator of the prizes, told the New York Times,  “The time was right. We are very proud of this selection. It means that the jury and the board judging system worked as it’s supposed to — the best work was awarded a Pulitzer Prize.”

    Lamar had no immediate comment on his monumental achievement.

  • Paper Mill Island Adds More Acts to Summer 2018 Lineup

    Baldwinsville’s Paper Mill Island has just announced a new show to join an already impressive array of talent stopping by the Bud Light Amphitheater for summer 2018.  On Friday, April 13 tickets will be available for Gary Clark, Jr.’s show which is slated for Aug. 1, marking the guitar virtuoso’s first trip to the island.  A former teen prodigy in Austin’s roots music scene, Clark has grown his brand and name steadily throughout the past few years, collaborating with legends like Chuck Berry and Eric Clapton. This summer, upstate New York will finally get to see what the buzz is all about.  Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. for this all ages admitted show.  Tickets can be purchased through Ticketfly beginning Friday at 10 a.m.

    papermillClark, Jr. joins a summer lineup for Paper Mill Island that also includes other nationally known acts like Nahko and Medicine for the People, playing Wednesday, June 27, and Matisyahu, who performs on Sunday, July 22. Tickets for both of these shows are already available through Creative Concerts on their website. Earlier in the summer, the island will play host to Umphrey’s McGee and Dark Star Orchestra for their respective shows, laying the foundation of what appears to be a special summer of music.

    Paper Mill Island Schedule:

    5/17: An Evening with Umphrey’s McGee
    5/19: Get The Led Out
    5/20: Dark Star Orchestra
    6/27: Nahko and Medicine for the People
    7/22: Matisyahu
    8/1: Gary Clark Jr.

  • Good Nature Farms Brewery Announces Summer Concert Series

    Good Nature Farms Brewery in Hamilton has announced its first Summer Concert Series. In collaboration with Creative Concerts the “homegrown family-owned,” brewery will be home to seven upcoming concerts, starting in May through August.

    Good Nature Farms Brewery

    “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Creative Concerts,” GNB Co-Founder Carrie Blackmore said. “We look forward to bringing nationally renowned acts and regional favorites to Good Nature Farm Brewery this summer. It doesn’t get any better than bringing folks together in our Beer Garden for great music and great beer!”

    The concerts will take place outside the brewery in their Beer Garden, where they will be serving food from their “farm-to-table kitchen.” The brewery prides itself on sustainability and and building a beer culture in, N.Y.

    The Good Nature Farms Brewery series will begin starting May, 13 with Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad. The brewery plans to announce more acts coming this summer. Tickets for shows went on sale Friday morning and can be purchased at CCtix.com

    Schedule:

    May 13 – Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad
    May 27 – The Heavy Pets
    June 3 – The Ghost of Paul Revere
    June 17 – Amy Helm
    June 24 – Martin Sexton
    July 15 – Dark Hollow
    August 19 – Donna The Buffalo

    More will be announced on a later date.

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