NYS Music 20​19

Category: Media

  • In Focus: Jackie Greene Serenades City Winery

    On Friday, May 17, Americana singer/guitarist Jackie Greene treated an intimate City Winery crowd to an acoustic evening filled with rare catalog classics and his take on many classic rock hits. His second of a two-set evening, accompanied by Nathan Dale on guitar and vocals and special guest Leslie Mendleson on vocals and piano, showcased why he is one of the top musicians around today.

    This was a special, intimate setting for the musician who is usually flanking some of the biggest names in music with his soulful electric guitar. On this evening in a small venue like City Winery, donning only an acoustic guitar, Jackie told a different story using his amazingly rich voice and soulful lyrics. Known for his ties to the Grateful Dead family, he treated fans to stellar renditions of “Brokedown Palace” and “Peggy O.” But it was the stripped down version of Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice it’s Alright” that made this evening a special one.  

    Setlist: Don’t Let the Devil Take Your Mind, Brokedown Emotion, Slip Slidin’ Away, Gone Wanderin’, Honey I Been Thinking About You, Never Satisfied, Mexican Girl, Animal, Don’t Think Twice It’s All Right, Shaken, Breakdown, Trust Somebody, Don’t Let Me Down, Scarlet Begonias, That’s What Love Will Make You Do, Brokedown Palace, Ball and Chain, Peggy O

  • In Focus: Tom Morello Unleashes Atlas Underground

    Tom Morello brought Atlas Underground Live to the infamous Irving Plaza, treating a packed house of young and old fans to his most ambitious project in years, on Wednesday, May 14 . “The Atlas Underground Tour is one-part Marshall-stack guitar-madness and one part bass-drop meltdown. The show will be an intense sonic and visual ‘less talk, more rock’ experience that’s somewhere between a crazy mosh pit, an illegal rave, a subversive art installation, and a prison riot.,” said the guitar god and social justice vanguard.

    The virtuoso has taken different genres of music and blended them like never before. A new mix of EDM and his powerful tone and attitude make Tom Morello one of the top guitar players in the style. Each song was carefully selected, paired with a powerful video message depicting giant problems going on in our society.

    The show touched all genres and aspects of Morello’s long illustrious career. With plenty of Rage Against the Machine Material, the set journeyed along with nods to a deep connection with his Audioslave band mate and friend, Chris Cornell, and an inspiring cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “Ghost of Tom Joad.” During the final song Morello invited as many fans as could fit on stage with him; he blew the roof off the New York City venue with the Rage classic “Killing In The Name Of.” It was proof: the song’s lyrics are just as relevant now as when the song was originally released 18 years ago.

  • Griz Ride Waves Tour rolls into Brooklyn’s King’s Theatre

    Griz’ Ride Waves: Season One tour rolled into Brooklyn’s Kings Theater last week. Griz is an electronic music producer and saxophonist from Southfield, MI who combines the saxophone with his self described “future funk,” electro-soul, hip-hop and funk beats.

    Griz

    Ride Waves is Griz’ fifth album, and came after a prolonged hiatus from social media and music. Griz used this time to hone his craft and travel the country while recording new music. He was able to recruit talent such as Snoop Dogg, Matisyahu, Bootsy Collins and Dram, as well as address social issues like gun control. He also recorded his first rap verse.

    King’s Theater warmly welcomed Griz and his openers, Dwilly and Yung Bae. LA-based DJ and producer Dwilly took the stage first and delivered urban pop beats and remixes that got the crowd moving. Yung Bae, the Portland-based producer who has amassed millions of streams on Spotify, followed with his disco-centric funky beats.

    Fans enjoy the Yung Bae set.

    The crowd was on their feet as Griz took the stage. His setup included a raised area for his DJ equipment and saxophone, and an area to perform near the front of the stage, with a huge LED display illuminating with positive messages. Griz was accompanied on stage by guitarist Muzzy Bearr, vocalist Chrishira, and horn/trumpet players.

    “Can’t Get Enough” featured Griz’ first rap verse, and showed his depth and talent. He sounded great and the crowd was loving it. The lyrics pulsated in bold letters behind him, and the light show was incredibly well timed.

    Guitarist Muzzy Bearr, Griz, and vocalist Chrishira

    The saxophone and guitar combination in “Caught Up” has a classic disco funk meets reggae feel. It’s hard to not start dancing, and that is exactly what the crowd did.

    “It Gets Better” emanated with positivity, and combined elements of hip-hop, jazz and funk into one danceable tune. The LED screen displayed the lyrics and was a positive reinforcement of the chill vibe. The crowd enjoyed the song, and was singing along in unison by the end.

    Griz seamlessly intertwines his funk and hip hop beats with positivity and the saxophone, creating pure musical bliss in Brooklyn. This show was an enjoyable party, from start to end, that is not to be missed.

    griz ride waves

  • Griz Reigns as King of Palace Theatre in Albany

    The Palace Theatre in Albany, NY played host to Griz and his Ride the Waves tour on Wednesday, May 8.

    Openers, Dwilly and Yung Bae opened the night and got the adrenaline pumping early. The front rows were packed with a high energy, young crowd and they were soon ready for one of Colorado’s best.

    The lights dimmed, and the bass began to rumble. Griz emerged and began to throw out some incredible lyrics, not usual for past tours. The show continued to bring out surprises including two different singers and two artists on trombone and trumpet.

    The energy, production, and bass lines, were all at full capacity all night. You can catch this energy yourself as Griz continues his tour west and is a headliner at many festivals this summer.

  • Alice Frost Wows the Crowd in Hudson Falls

    In a sold out show, a blast to the past of the late ’60s – ’80s progressive rock era, the Alice Frost band had the crowd rocking in their seats to the music of YES! The core of the band started performing in the late ’70s and the friendships made then have endured to this day. The members of this ensemble, original and newly added, have developed a true love for the music and for playing together. The group is composed of experienced area musicians who enjoy the challenge of this complex and beautiful music. On guitars is John Eisenhart who has played in 805, out of Syracuse, Lake City, Blind Design and currently performs around upstate New York as a solo artist.


    John Eisenhart – Guitar

    John has a diverse background which includes a wide range of musical styles. From 17th century classical guitar to delta blues, as well as more popular music, John adds his own style and the audience loves it. Harold “Clutch” Reiser, on drums and percussion, is a founding member of The Maynard Brothers Band, and also played with The Sundowners, Blind Design and other bands. Matt Donnelly, keyboards, plays with The South Street Saints, The Music Box and hosts the Thursday night jam at the Lawrence Street Tavern.

    Matt Donnelly – Keyboardist

    Matt brings years of experience on the keyboards to the Alice Frost band. He currently is associated with many other bands in the upstate New York area. Once you hear his mastery of the keys, you can understand why so many bands want to be associated with him. Frank Esposito, the vocalist, played for Howard Stern’s show and works in the Vibratones. Carl DeSantis jr., on basses and a Berkeley graduate, plays in North Carolina in a number of ensembles. Steve Hymowech, the bassist for Dirt Cheap, assists Alice with extra guitar, vocals, percussion and inspiration. The show encompassed music from the Yes Album, Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Relayer.

    Playing at a high level of difficulty to bring this music to audiences makes the work enjoyable and rewarding, and it was be a show to remember. The May 3 date kicked off the 2019 season for Alice Frost, ending as the headliner to an outdoor prog music festival in the Syracuse area. They have a Facebook page with videos, pictures and more information. 

    Harold “Clutch” Reiser – Drums

    “Clutch” not only sets the beat for the songs, but he did a tympani set which drove the fans wild and onto their feet.


    Steven Hymowech – Acoustic Guitar
    Carl DeSantis Jr. – Bass
    Alice Frost hudson
    Alice Frost hudson

     

  • Griz Crashes into Albany and Brooklyn on Ride Waves Tour

    Future funk and electro-soul artist, Griz, continues to Ride Waves on tour, promoting his new album of the same name across the East Coast. The lineup includes electronic and urban pop producers, Yung Bae and Dwilly, for most of the May shows.

    Ride Waves was produced over a two year hiatus that Griz took from electronic music, in which he addresses socio-cultural issues like gun violence. The DJ, producer and saxophone player recruited talent from Bootsy Collins and Matusyahu to Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa for his 5th studio album that emanates with positivity. The album contains elements of funk, rap, reggae and soul, including moments of reflection from Griz’ life. The track “It Gets Better” is an uplifting collaboration with DRAM that showcases Griz’ saxophone skills, and sends a message of perseverance.

    Join Griz at the Palace Theatre in Albany and King’s Theater in Brooklyn, NY this week for the Ride Waves tour, as well as his signature electronic beats and organic saxophone-funk.

    Upcoming Shows:

    May 6th – Worcester, MA – The Palladium*
    May 8th – Albany, NY – Palace Theatre*
    May 9th – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Riverworks*
    May 10th – Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre*
    May 11th – Philadelphia, PA – The Met*
    May 14th – Louisville, KY – Iroquois Amphitheater*
    May 15th – Columbus, OH – Express Live!*
    May 16th – St. Louis, MO – The Pageant*
    May 17th – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory*
    May 17th-19th – Gulf Shores, AL – Hangout Fest
    May 18th – Kansas City, MO – CrossroadsKC*
    May 27th – Detroit, MI – Movement
    June 9th – Chicago, IL – Spring Awakening
    June 14th – Manchester, TN – Bonnaroo
    June 21st – Heber City, UT – Bonanza Campout
    June 23rd – Dover, DE – Firefly Music Festival
    July 5th – Liempde, NL – We Are Electric
    July 10th-14th – Dour, BE – Dour Festival
    July 12th – Bristol, UK – Nass Festival
    August 2nd-4th – Montreal, QC – Osheaga Festival
    August 9th-11th – Salmo, BC – Shambhala Music Festival

    * = with Yung Bae & Dwilly

    griz ride waves

  • In Focus: Snow Patrol Wildness at Terminal 5

    On April 30, British Rockers, Snow Patrol, brought their 2019 Wildness tour to the beloved Terminal 5. A sold-out crowd was treated to an amazing high energy performance with the band, weaving in and out of their immense catalog. Highlights included: “Take Back the City,” a fan requested “You Could Be Happy,” “Chasing Cars,” and an encore that included “What if This is All The Love You Ever Get?” and “Just Say Yes.” Check out Snow Patrol’s latest album Wildness, it’s perfect for new and old fans alike – a timeless sound and lyrical mastery.

    Setlist: Take Back the City, Chocolate, Crack the Shutters, Empress, Don’t Give In, Open Your Eyes, Run, *(1) You Could Be Happy, Life on Earth, Make This Go On Forever, Shut Your Eyes, Called Out in the Dark, Heal Me, The Lighting Strike (What If This Storm Ends?), Chasing Cars, You’re all I Have.

    *(1) Fan Request

    Encore: What If This Is All the Love You Ever Get?, Just Say Yes.

  • Exclusive: Ian Flanigan debuts new single “Picture You”

    Upstate New York singer/songwriter Ian Flanigan today debuts his single “Picture You,” produced by three-time Grammy winner Justin Guip (Levon Helm, Hot Tuna). Flanigan’s songwriting features husky vocals and evocative lyrics that highlight the rural landscapes of his compositions.

    “Picture You” seamlessly weaves intricate acoustics and lyricism across supportive cello arrangements and skillful percussion. The song in its entirety is concise, persuading the listener to play it on repeat.  “When the world feels like it’s about to break…” the melodious bridge sings out to the listener “…I picture you,” illustrating the comfort in familiarity—a feeling the listener will become familiar with after falling in love with “Picture You.”

    Ian Flanigan

    Flanigan’s sound — an eclectic blend of progressive folk and percussive finger-style — is reminiscent of the road less traveled, paved with poignant lyrical truths of his past. Ian is a celebrated Kerrville Grassy Hill New Folk Festival finalist, and Emerging Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Artist.

    Flanigan has had the pleasure of sharing stages with Corey Glover (Living Colour), Sean Rowe, The Pedrito Martinez Group, Session Americana, Chris Knight, and Dwight Yoakam. Follow Flanigan on and Facebook, and listen to “Picture You” and watch “Give Me Color.”

    three more words

  • Last Pharaoh Blisters the Night at Orange County Choppers

    Last Pharaoh screamed out melodic power/progressive metal and neo-classical music at Orange County Choppers on Saturday night which left the crowd roaring for more. Influenced by Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Queensryche, Last Pharaoh was signed by Pure Steel Records in 2018. Their first album, “Mantle Of Spiders”, was released last year on September 21. After their ‘blowing off the roof’ rendition of “Bark at the Moon,” they treated the crowd to their soon to be released “Intruders” as their last song of the night (which will be on their new album and first single).

    The four band members each bring a rocking history of their own and combine to a fantastic blend of guitar riffs and metal screams, Ron Toth on guitar, Michael James on bass, Ed Shelinsky playing drums, and Tommy Santangelo performing on vocals. They are based in the Hudson Valley, however, they will be coming to the Albany area at Chrome in Waterford, NY on May 25. Look for their music on Spotify, YouTube, Apple music, iTunes, Amazon, and of course, your local record store.

    Setlist: Into the Darkness, The Headless Horseman, Jekyll and Hyde, Desert Dreams, Deadly Dreams, Machinic Non-Conscience, Slave to the Kill (The Son of Sam), Mantle of Spiders, Psychohouse, Bark at the Moon, Intruders

    Pure emotion carried the crowd away

    Last Pharaoh
    Michael James
    Last Pharaoh
    Ron Toth
    Ed Shelinsky
    Tommy Santangelo
    Last Pharaoh
    Michael James
    Tommy Santangelo
    Ron Toth
    Tommy Santangelo

  • In Focus: Trey Anastasio Band Impress in Final Brooklyn Bowl Show

    Trey Anastasio Band closed out a long weekend run with the second of two sold out show at Brooklyn Bowl on Monday Night. Playing the beloved Brooklyn venue for only the third time, fans didn’t hesitate on packing this venue/bowling alley to capacity. This is one of the smaller venues TAB will play, but it seemed like Trey’s eight-piece solo outfit felt right at home in this tiny space.

    The show began with “Blaze On” a song TAB debuted three nights earlier at Anastasio’s Me and My Mind documentary premier. The band continued in top form offering up TAB favorites Including “Alive Again,” “Night Speaks to a Woman,” “Curlews Call,” and “Dark and Down” before bringing an amazing first set to an end with “First Tube,” the Phish fan favorite.

    After a short set break Trey and his amazing band returned with “Money Love and Change” where Anastasio shined with amazing guitar work. The rest of the set included speak to me, the first “The Land of Nod” since 2017, and a fun version of “Alaska” that the entire crowd sand every word to. The set came to a close with a smooth pairing of “Shine” into “Rise/Come Together.” The band returned for a two song encore offering up “Drifting” and “Ghost.”

    Trey Anastasio Band Continues with a four night run in the southeast at the end of May as they prepare for a full card of summer dates. See a full gallery from the show Monday below.

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