NYS Music 20​19

Category: News

  • A Night with the Stars of the Capital Region: The Thomas Edison Music Awards at Proctors

    The night of Sunday, April 14 was a special night for all of the Capital Region’s music and entertainment scene at Proctors Theatre. It was the first ever Eddie’s – the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards. The Eddie’s were formed this year by Jim Murphy (marketing and corporate development director at Proctors Collaborative) and Salvatore Prizio (program director at Proctors). It provided an opportunity to amplify, empower, and celebrate all creative professionals that are vital to the Capital Region’s growing music scene. Thirty-three categories, ranging from best photographer, soloist, music venue, and others, and three people’s choice categories, were voted on by the public. Two 2019 Inductees, songwriter, Kevin McKrell, and Music Mobile founder, Ruth Pelham, were inducted into the N.Y. Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame.

    As a creative professional in the visual arts, photography, and journalism scene, it was an honor to attend and be a part of this show at Proctors. It was a blast being a part of this show with other creative musicians, photographers, publications, and music patrons. The awards show gave patrons an opportunity to learn more about the musicians, bands, publications, music promoters, photographers, venues, radio hosts, and other creatives that make up our music scene in the Capital Region. It was a great event to support all the nominees and winners that make up our growing scene.

    This year’s 2019 Inductees for the NY Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame included songwriter and visual artist, Kevin McKrell and Music Mobile Founder, Ruth Pelham. The video presentations and the speeches that both McKrell and Pelham gave to the audience were both interesting and inspiring, particularly Pelham’s. It was interesting to see how McKrell’s Celtic music and his portrait art of musicians that he created inspired him to become a visual artist and a successful musician who previously performed at the esteemed Carnegie Hall.

    Girl Blue with Jamie from Chromoscope Video Productions, accepting the award for “Best Music Video” for “Dreams”
    Sara Ayers and Paul Jossman accepting the award for “Best Arts Publication” for Nippertown.com
    A photo video montage shown on the screen held in memory of Caroline MotherJudge.
    Kevin McKrell,songwriter and recipient of The Eddie’s Artistic Lifetime Achievement Award.
    Music Mobile Founder, Ruth Pelham, the recipient of The Eddies Lifetime Achievement Award for Music Education or Community Impact.

  • Losers Club Launches with Catchy Debut Song, Music Video

    New pop rock outfit Losers Club have released their first song “Emerald Eyes” this week. The song is a rallying call for those for whom everything seems to be going wrong, but who never lose sight of hope.

    “At the time I wrote this song, I had no idea Losers Club would even exist. It was just another personal demo I wrote to get my feelings out of my head for a while,” says frontman Nate Blasdell. “I’m currently working full time as a middle school teacher, so my schedule had been super busy. There was an unexpected snow day in late February, so I took advantage of it with the intention of writing a song about things I had been feeling recently. I can’t remember the last time I wrote a song in full and recorded it in a single day, but once I got started on this song, it just took off on it’s own. The lyrics came so easy because it was all stuff I had been felt for so long the previous year. I had just gotten off a Europe tour in December that was the most emotionally tolling tour I had ever done and my mental health just hit rock bottom. That particular tour had numerous obstacles on top of so many things going on back home that I wasn’t there to deal with at the same time. This song was really just putting that whole thing into perspective. “

    The Rochester-based band includes Andy Champion on bass, Aidan Snyder on guitar and vocals, Cody Wagner on drums, and Blasdell on lead vocals and guitar. Active in the music industry since the age of 16, Blasdell has been a member of several bands, including The Bunny The Bear and I Set My Friends on Fire. He’s also got songwriting credits for bands like
    MKTO, The Vamps, and Big Time Rush.

    “Losers Club is kind of a collective of every idea I’ve ever wanted to do but wasn’t confident enough to pull the trigger,” Blasdell says about the project. “Even though most of my platform and social media branding had been built in the metal scene, my heart has always been in Pop-Rock. I’ll openly admit, I was afraid to sacrifice giving up what I had, what I had worked for, and the opportunities in front of me, to ‘start over’ in a different scene that I had been out of for so long and there was a lot of self-doubt.”

    Blasdell continues, “To be honest, I’ve lived a pretty great life and it took me a while to realize that I had my mental health was not nearly as strong as I thought it was. I needed an outlet, so I started writing basement demos for myself with the intention of never showing anyone. It was a new perspective and the first time I was ever really able to be fully honest with the state my mental health was in. Soon after writing the songs, I realized it wasn’t about being ‘good enough’ or what other people thought, and I didn’t have to give anything up. Everything was so ‘all or nothing’ in my head. I could still play metal. I could still tour. I could still be a teacher, but I could do everything I was afraid to do as well. Somehow, I managed to find three best friends that I could relate to on a personal basis but were all incredible musicians as well. None of us cared about ‘being good enough’ or ‘fitting in’ to the industry’s stand point. We’re all goofy guys. We’re all weird. And we’re all fucking losers, but we’re embracing it head on and learning to let go of the things that aren’t Important in the process. These are songs that have helped us and we can only hope they help you too.”

    Follow Losers Club on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date on this exciting new venture.

  • Phish Announces ReCurveball Festival

    In a surprise announcement from Phish, ReCurveball Festival will be held in Watkins Glen, NY this August 9-11, on the same grounds as Phish’s cancelled 2018 Curveball festival.

    “After last summer’s sudden cancellation of Curveball, we immediately made plans to get back to Watkins Glen. We found a guy who said he could take care of the water issue and you know what, we trust him,” said Trey Anastasio. “We owe it to the fans.”

    curveball
    “Water will not be an issue at ReCurveball” – Andy King

    With Woodstock 50 being held at Watkins Glen International the following weekend, Phish and Woodstock Ventures teamed up to ensure that both ReCurveball and Woodstock 50 go off without hitches. Operations director C. Wallob said of the plans, “Holding ReCurveball festival the weekend before ensures that we can not only prepared the grounds for the influx of thousands of fans the following weekend, but any issues that come up can be sorted out in advance. We really want to make ReCurveball a success, and hopefully Woodstock 50 can feed off our success at Watkins Glen. We certainly don’t want another Woodstock 99 to happen. If anyone is going to burn Watkins Glen to the ground, it’ll be Phish.

    “Plus,” Wallob added, “Phish fans will certainly leave it clean for Woodstock 50 attendees.”

    curveball
    photo via Phish.net

    Phish plans to reuse the silver ball for the special late-night set, and unsold merchandise from Curveball will be rebranded with new dates added. More information can be found at ReCurveball.com.

  • Lineup Announced For Tulip Fest 2019

    Albany’s signature spring event, the Tulip Festival, is set to take place in Washington Park on Mother’s Day Weekend, May 11 and 12, 2019.  The 71st annual festival aims to celebrate the Dutch Heritage of the region as well as provide the opportunity for artisans to sell handmade crafts, the park to showcase more than 140,000 tulips in 150 varieties, and musicians to entertain large crowds with world-class live entertainment. Additionally, KIDZONE is available to entertain the whole family.

    The live performances on the 518 Stage begin on Saturday, May 11,  following the Tulip Queen Coronation at 12 p.m. The first performance is by Hasty Page at 1 p.m. The young members of this group embody an exciting new sound full of inspiration, while creative lyricism paints a theatrical image for their original music. Next up is CK & The Rising Tide at 2 p.m. This alternative/country/folk rock band chooses to record in the solitude of an upstate log cabin. Their songs are rooted in folk-rock, oftentimes exploring the indie/country rock side of things. At 3:30 p.m., alt-rock, folk, pop singer Sydney Worthley takes the stage. This young singer/songwriter debuted her album, Strong, as a 14 song blend of strength, courage, and perseverance. Capping off the day is Wild Planes at 4:45 p.m.This rock/pop trio is labeled as a “wild” group with unmatched energy and immense personality.

    Sunday, May 12, kicks off with the 21st Annual Mother of the Year Award at 12 p.m. This award seeks to recognize the Capital Region’s most outstanding moms. Following this touching tradition, Mike Grutka, an acoustic based singer/songwriter will perform at 1 p.m. His ability to blend funky-modern-roots with rock has established his name on more than 400 radio stations between the U.S. and Canada. Honey Slider comes next at 2:15 p.m. This folk rock/pop duo based in Albany has roots in musical theater. This background shines through in their classic rock and folk influences, mainly during live performances. Following Honey Slider is Bird Streets at 3:30 p.m. An array of introspective indie rock and power pop draws on music of the decades’ past without promoting an overly nostalgic vibe. The music is credited as being “both fresh and familiar.” Last but not least will be a performance by Lets Be Leonard at 4:45 p.m. This group of rockers is fresh out of Saratoga Springs and well-known for putting on an exciting show.

    KIDZONE, is open both Saturday and Sunday. Pony rides, rock climbing, inflatables, face painting, music, and games will all be available to enjoy. Furthermore, the KIDZONE stage will be filled with performances. On Saturday and Sunday, Park Playhouse will be putting on two shows, at 12:15 p.m. and 2 p.m. This beloved theater group will be offering sneak peeks of their upcoming musical productions! At 1 p.m. on Sunday, Artpartners, a -community-based dance training program, will be presenting a performance bridging classic music and modern styles. Melvin the Magnificent, a professional magician, will be wowing the crowd with his action packed, interactive tricks at both 1:45 and 4 p.m. Next, Andy “The Music Man” Morse will be performing his well-versed children’s music at 2:45 and 4:45 p.m. This includes sing-a-longs, dancing, storytelling, and play-acting. Closing the show is Ruth Pelham. At 3:30 and 5:30 p.m., Ruth will be promoting her mission to build peace within communities through her original songs spanning all age groups.

    The Main Stage on Saturdaybegins with El Modernist at 1:30 p.m.This band dives into a new take on Indie-rock, showcasing fantastic hooks and melodies that embody psychedelia. Overall, the group gives off a very catchy garage-rock sound with a taste of modern alternative hip-hop. Next to take the stage is the Greeting Committee at 3 p.m.This Kansas City-based band gives originality that feels as intimate as a basement recording, but surprises you with intricate textures and sophisticated melodies. 4:30 p.m. kicks off KONGOS performance. This four-brother rock band popped up on the map with their song Come With Me Now, popular all around the world. This track went RIAA double-platinum for sales in excess of 2 million, and occupied the number one spot on alternative radio for five weeks, historically marking the quickest rise to the top by a new band.

    Sunday starts with Girl Blue at 1:30 p.m. Known for her powerful vocals, viewers can expect for the room to be silenced by her and her guitar alone. In collaboration with Just Pretend Records, she tours regularly and records her own music. At 3 p.m. is Moriah Formica, a top 20 contestant on Season 13 of The Voice. The coaches had this to say: “So much talent, it’s almost unfair to the rest of the world. You are a born rockstar” (Blake Shelton).” Marshall Charloff & The Purple Xperience are finishing off the weekend at 4:30 p.m. This five-person group from Minneapolis, MN has been bringing authentic productions of Prince and The Revolution on tour with them. Band leader Marshall Charloff recorded with Prince on the album 94 East, where Marshall plays both, keyboards and bass guitar and Prince is on lead vocals.

    Additionally, a free CDTA shuttle runs to Washington Park from three designated locations:

    • Elk Street Parking Lot: Located behind the State Education Building – the pick-up location will be Elk and Hawk at the stop sign.
    • Eagle Street Parking Lot: Located at the corner of Eagle Street and Madison Avenue.
    • Albany Medical Center Parking Lot: Located off Robin Street, for customers needing extra assistance or in a wheelchair. This particular shuttle will drop passengers off at the Madison Avenue/New Scotland entrance to the park.

    Shuttles will run every 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. All parking lots are free to use the weekend of Tulip Festival.

  • Join Sad Songs Summer Camp with the Milk Carton Kids

    Welcome to Sad Songs Summer Camp, where you’ll talk, listen to, and learn about music from the Milk Carton Kids. You’ll also get the chance to workshop sad and not-so-sad songs during your stay, with input from the duo. From July 23, to July 26 at Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York, you’ll join a camp full of other music lovers for an all-inclusive music vacation, complete with lodging (available in multiple packages), provided meals, and more.

    The camp is powered by Music Masters Camp, a series of interactive retreats and workshops which bridge the gap between performers and their audience.

    Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan sum up the experience in their special, banter-filled style in a transcribed bit from the above trailer video.

    Pattengale: “Basically, we all wake up, eat breakfast in the morning, Joey and I will give a master class, then a guest artist will give a masterclass. We eat lunch –

    Ryan: “Master class?”

    Pattengale: “Yeah, we’ll teach things, like things that we know. Harmony Singing, songwriting, lyric writing…”

    Speaking to NYS Music about the camp following a recent show at Tarrytown Music Hall, Ryan described the way the camp came together.

    “We’ve been aware of camps like this because friends of ours do them. Steve Earle does a camp called Camp Copperhead and the other people in our band will go and teach at folk and bluegrass camps. So, we’ve been aware of camps like this but we never thought that we would do one ourselves. When we got the call with the opportunity to host a camp, we thought it’d be a great chance to work with people directly and share a combined musical process.”

    On reflecting if working in a teaching and workshop capacity is of particular interest, Ryan commented:

    “I enjoy talking and getting to know people. We’re around musicians on tour all the time, so it’ll be great to spend time with people and musicians in another capacity, where we can learn about them and work directly. Conversations at merch tables are a quick ‘We loved your show’ and ‘Thanks, here’s a t-shirt we have,’ where at Sad Songs camp, we’ll be able to get to know people and fans on a deeper level that we aren’t usually able to, and work with their music, while spending some time to write for ourselves as well.”

    According to the website, camp goers can expect a full, crafted experience.

    “The camp will provide a space for a lucky group of individuals to learn, co-write, workshop, and, if desired, perform for an audience of like-minded peers —  all with the guidance of the Milk Carton Kids and some of their favorite songwriters and comedians. Mornings will have Kenneth, Joey and their hand-picked guest artists guiding master classes that explore the ins and outs of  harmony singing, songwriting, arrangement, lyricism, stage-banter and performance. After lunch, students will break off into workshops, working solo or with other campers on the skills of their choice, with encouragement and tips from TMCK and other SSSC instructors. Evenings are packed with entertainment, with performance opportunities for campers (don’t worry they’re not required), late night jam sessions, and informal song circles. Not to mention two intimate Milk Carton Kids concerts. Whether it’s over breakfast or around the campfire, students will have the opportunity to hang out with TMCK and friends while learning the tricks of their trade.”

    Non-musicians are welcome to spend time and attend the camp as well. Interested people who have a roommate in mind are welcome to sign up at the same time to secure a spot together. The camp is a unique opportunity for Milk Carton Kids and folk fans to spend intimate time with an artist, and engage in a study of the craft together.

    An early-bird special is available if you book before March. Secure your spot at Sad Songs Summer Camp.

  • ponder Drops New Single During International Tour

    The funk-rock quartet, ponder, specializes in soulful and original tune-making. Praised for engaging live performances, the group from Buffalo, has been working diligently to shine light on their music in other regions of the state.

    Previously, ponder has performed at Buffalove 2016 and Rochester Fringe Fest 2016 & 2017. An extension of the list includes Cobblestone Live Music and Arts Festival. Music is Art Festival, and Rock Autism Music Festival. Additionally, they have been granted the opportunity to open shows for acts such as LITZ, The Werks, Formula 5, and many others.

    With the intention of bringing their talent to North America, ponder’s international tour begins in March, kicked off by the decision to release a brand new single today. Titled “Greener,” the tune embodies the multi-dimensional groove rock aura ponder promotes. Harmonies are smartly layered, accompanied by drums and dueling guitar phrases. The thoughtful lyrics in combination with a prominent bass line results in a full body experience for the listener. In reference to previous works, the single offers an uplifting message about staying together through tough times while keeping life exciting through transition and monotony.

    Performances include:

    March 12- The Doors Pub – Hamilton, ON

    March 13- La Marche a Cote – Montreal, QC

    March 14- Nectars – Burlington VT

    March 15- Monopole Bar – Plattsburg NY

    March 16- Parish Public House – Albany NY

    March 17- Iron Works – Buffalo NY

    Soothe your ears by listening to “Greener” below.

  • Webster Hall Reopening Following Renovations

    After being bought in 2017 by Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment and AEG Presents from long time owners the Ballingers, Webster Hall has announced the reopening of the historic New York City venue with their Spring 2019 lineup. The historic night club was closed for extensive renovations with its last show on August 9, 2018.

    Webster Hall

    The Hall will reopen this Spring  with a full schedule of performances, including Patti Smith, who last performed at Webster Hall on December 30, 2014. Joining the lineup for the reopening is the Chris Robinson Brotherhood, MGMT, and Sharon Van Etten among those lined up to perform. While Smith and company are the first scheduled show slated for May 1, 2019, a true reopening date and headliner have yet to be announced. For more information on the reopening of Webster Hall, visit the Hall’s website.

  • Kofi Burbridge Dies at 57

    Kofi Burbridge, multi-instrumentalist of Tedeschi Trucks Band passed away in Atlanta on Friday, February 15 following treatment complications for an ongoing cardiac issue. Kofi was well-known and praised for his mastery of the flute and keyboard, as well as his strong vocal skills.

    Kofi and his younger brother, Oteil, displayed musical interest and skill when they were young. Their parents supported these abilities, encouraging the pair to learn the ins and outs of music and performance. The brothers became comfortable with multiple instruments and took part in classical and jazz courses, eventually leading to participation in well-known bands. Kofi found himself in Atlanta in the 80s where he performed with Knee-Deep and became friendly with Col. Bruce Hampton. In 1997, Otiel became a member of the Allman Brothers Band, opening the door for Kofi to impress the world with his talents during several guest performances.

    Interview Kofi BurbridgeDerek Trucks, also a member of the Allman Brothers, founded the Tedeschi Trucks Band in 2010 with Kofi as a founding member, reuniting him with his brother. Although Oteil left the band in 2012, Kofi remained present throughout his surgery and recovery, accompanying the group for their final shows of 2018.

    Following his death, tributes and loving messages displaying admiration for Kofi Burbridge filled social media. Among others, Oteil penned a tribute to his big brother, referring to him as his “first and biggest hero” and highlighting his sweet and humble nature. As wisely stated by Oteil, and openly supported by us all, “fly free, Kofi.”

  • The Dirty Pennies Announce New EP and Release Show in April

    Save the date. On Friday, April 19, the Dirty Pennies celebrate the release of their new EP with a show at the Bug Jar in Rochester. Special guests include Buffalo’s Handsome Jack and indie rockers The Stedwells. Tickets are on sale Thursday, February 21.

    The Dirty Pennies’ much-anticipated sophomore release will be out a couple weeks before the show, on April 2. Entitled ep, the collection will be available over all major music platforms (including Spotify, iTunes, Google Play, Bandcamp).

    The new work demonstrates The Dirty Pennies’ ability to create a cohesive sound from blues and surf rock influences. The Dirty Pennies turned to Josh Pettinger and Greg Thompson of Wicked Squid Studios to record and engineer their new songs. The pair took on the herculean task of harnessing the raw energy of this dynamic trio and translating it into a recording that remains true to the feel of the Dirty Pennies’ live shows.

    Visit The Dirty Pennies online or follow on Facebook for updates. While you’re waiting for the new tunes, give their 2017 album Kick Out The Rocks a spin.

  • Imagine a World Without The Beatles: “Yesterday” Trailer

    What would happen if The Beatles never existed? What would happen if you woke up one day and you’re the only person who knew their songs?

    That’s what Yesterday, an upcoming musical comedy film directed by Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire), is all about. Written by Richard Curtis (Love Actually), the film follows Jack, a struggling yet ambitious songwriter who awakes after a bike accident to find that he’s the only person who knows The Beatles and their songs.

    Jack’s journey seemingly mirrors the drama, fame, romance and fandom that The Beatles must have experienced. Starring Himesh Patel and Lily James along with an enticing supporting cast featuring Kate McKinnon and Ed Sheeran, Yesterday comes to theaters on June 28.