NYS Music 20​19

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  • Shannon Hoon Documentary to be released in 2020

    A documentary capturing the final years of Blind Melon frontman Shannon Hoon is slated to be released in 2020, per Variety. Both Double E Pictures and Live Nation Productions were recently added as executive producers for the film, which was created using more than 200 hours of the late singer-songwriter’s home videos from Grammy-winning videographer and acclaimed photographer Danny Clinch. Hoon and Clinch were close friends, and Clinch co-directed the documentary alongside Taryn Gould and Colleen Hennessy. Find out more info here.

    “We realized that we basically had all these videos of a guy who was videotaping himself obsessively for five years from before he was famous up until really the day of his death,” Clinch told Variety. “It was the dawn of technology where people started to film each other, and he was way ahead of the curve in a way. It’s kind of one of the earliest moments of someone who was self-archiving his own life.”

    Hoon died from an overdose at age 28, following the monumental success of Blind Melon’s 1992 eponymous debut.

    “He was really an endearing character,” Clinch told Rolling Stone in 2015. “He could just become your best friend right away. His energy was great. He was really creative and super friendly. He definitely liked to have a good time and he enjoyed the rock and roll lifestyle for sure.”

    A Kickstarter was launched in 2015 for the documentary, which has been in the works since then, and has been screen at Tribeca Film Festival and the International Documentary Film Festival in Amsterdam.

  • NYC’s Fever Dolls blur ‘The Distance’ between Music and Art with New Video.

    New York City’s Fever Dolls, a pioneered quintet hinged on being “brash and over-the-top,” are hot off the release of their new music video for “The Distance.” Released this past Wednesday, November 27, the video evokes the limitless nature of modern music with a vintage film.

    Fever Dolls The Distance

    With an endless supply of irresistible hooks and lyrics about sex addicts, according to the band’s website, “The Distance” follows suit. The band’s leading duo, Evan Allis and Renn Mulloy, fuse musical queues that are equally as provocative as the video’s visuals. With each step, or foot traveled, the viewer picks up on a new detail once overlooked – meanwhile, the stereo proves to be growing in complexity.

    “The Distance” is one of the first songs Renn and I sang when we started playing together. It has always been a favorite of ours to perform live and a favorite of our audiences to sing along with. It’s the kind of song that makes people lose their minds and jump for joy.

    Evan Allis

    While we’ve played “The Distance” in different bands and different forms for a few years now (even releasing a version in 2016 with our previous band Iron Eyes Cody) we never felt like we captured the live energy and spirit of the song in a recording until now. We feel like we caught something special with this cut of “The Distance,” and are excited for people to hear it.

    Evan Allis

    The Fever Dolls are no strangers to NYS Music after Sammy Steiner dubbed them as musical populists, transcending as visual storytellers for their release of “Mr. Carver.” They are on the rise with a constantly sharpened sword, ready to disrupt the music scene with a vengeance. Check out “The Distance” on all social media platforms, such as Spotify, where the band draws over 9,000 monthly in.

    Fever Dolls are playing Mercury Lounge on January 12 with West End Blend and Travers Brothership. The show is 21+ with an 8 pm start time. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

  • Debut performance of Jam Just Happened planned for December 6 at Nublu

    A first of its kind show, Jam Just Happened will bring together the intimacy of a podcast and the uniqueness of a live music experience. The first live performance is set for Friday, December 6, at Nublu NYC. The show will feature guitarist Scott Metzger, drummer Adam Chase, keyboard player Aron Magner, and bass player Jay White. 

    The musicians will bring each of their individual styles together to create something entirely unique for a small audience. A podcast companion will be released after the show. This event is presented by Osiris Media and nugs.net, and will be emceed by Tom Marshall.

  • Joe Russo’s Almost Dead perform dream setlist at HeadCount Benefit

    The fans voted, and Joe Russo’s Almost Dead delivered a dream setlist at the Brooklyn Bowl on Monday, November 25. “Make Democracy Rad Again” was a benefit for HeadCount included selfie moments as well as plenty of goodies for those who signed up to vote or showed support for democracy. The biggest treat was the incredible setlist played to a packed house.

    Joe Russo's Almost Dead Headcount

    If you aren’t familiar with the group, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead offer a fresh take on the music of the Grateful Dead. The band consists of Joe Russo (Drums), Dave Dreiwitz (bass), Marco Benevento (keyboards), Scott Metzger (guitar/vocals), and Tom Hamilton (guitar/vocals).  They are known to sell out venues within minutes and offer experimental takes on classic tunes.

    Joe Russo's Almost Dead Headcount

    HeadCount is dedicated to registering new voters through music. Joe Russo and Marco Benevento were part of the first HeadCount benefit back in 2004, making Joe Russo’s Almost Dead an easy candidate for the first of many benefit shows between HeadCount and the Brooklyn Bowl. Brooklyn Bowl owner Pete Shapiro was recently named Chair of the Board of Directors at the non-profit. The band has also outgrown this venue, which made this pairing more enticing. According to HeadCount’s twitter, the benefit successfully generated $150,000.

    Joe Russo's Almost Dead Headcount

    In order to uphold one of HeadCount’s missions, democratic participation, the set list was voted on by those attending the show. The results included heavy hitters, starting with a full suite of “Terrapin Station,” “Eyes of the World,” “The Eleven,” and “Franklin’s Tower.” Notable favorites like “Fire on the Mountain,” and “Help on the Way” didn’t get enough votes to make the cut, however, two stellar non-Dead tunes made the cut, including “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” by the Allman Brothers and “Atlantic City” by Bruce Springsteen.

    Joe Russo's Almost Dead Headcount

    After this incredible show of dynamic improvisation and fan favorites, it’s easy to see why this band quietly sells out venues. They are back on the road in 2020, kicking the year off at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY. Head on over to the band’s tour page for more details before the tickets are gone.

    Setlist: Joe Russo’s Almost Dead Headcount Benefit at Brooklyn Bowl, Monday, November 25, 2019

    Set One: Althea > The Eleven > Viola Lee Blues > Franklin’s Tower, Atlantic City > Reuben & Cerise > Eyes Of The World > In Memory Of Elizabeth Reed

    Set Two: St. Stephen > Scarlet Begonias > Dark Star > Terrapin Station Suite > Shakedown Street > Throwing Stones > Another Brick In The Wall Part 2 jam > Throwing Stones

    Encore: Jack Straw

  • Celebrate 10 Years of Phish’s Seven Below->Ghost

    Over November 27 and 28 2009, Phish performed two nights at Albany’s Times Union Center, the latter of which produced one of the band’s ultimate jams from their ‘3.0’ era. Opening set two with “Seven Below” and segueing seamlessly into “Ghost,” the band put forth 45+ minutes of Type II jamming (improvising beyond the song’s composition and structure) that still serve as one of their best from the last 10 years.

    seven below ghost

    Listen via LivePhish.com, Phishtracks.com, stream the full show, or just the 45 minutes of “Seven Below” -> “Ghost” below.

    November 28, 2009 setlist via Phish.net

    Set 1: Party Time, Stealing Time From the Faulty Plan, Uncle Pen, Sanity, Foam, Walk Away > NICU, Alaska, Split Open and Melt, Joy, Vultures, Backwards Down the Number Line

    Set 2: Seven Below > Ghost, Cool It Down > Gotta Jibboo, Let Me Lie, Wolfman’s Brother > Julius

    Encore: You Enjoy Myself

    This show featured the first Uncle Pen since July 11, 2000 (129 shows). Ghost contained a tease of Seven Below.

  • They Might Be Giants Add New ‘Flood’ Shows

    Brooklyn’s “Ambassadors of Love,” They Might Be Giants,  due to popular demand, have added new shows to their 2020 tour. New stops will include  Boston, New Haven, Pittsburgh, Minneapolis and many more. They also have added additional shows in Chicago, Detroit and New York City at the Bowery Ballroom, all of which are now sold out. New Yorkers can still catch TMBG at the State Theater in Ithaca (May 5) and Buffalo at the Town Ballroom (May 6). 

    The 2020 tour is in celebration of the 30th anniversary of their third album, Flood, which catapulted them into international stardom upon its release. Dubbed as an “evening with” show, fans can expect for TMBG to play Flood in its entirety along with favorites and some brand new tracks thrown into the lineup. Find a full list of the shows below and visit the band’s website for ticketing.

    They Might Be Giants 2020 Tour Dates

    Jan.10 – Daryl’s House Club – Pawling, NY

    Jan.11 – Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY

    Feb.6 – College Street Music Hall – New Haven, CT

    Feb.7 – Columbus Theatre – Providence, RI

    Feb.8 – Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY

    Mar.5 – Pabst Theater – Milwaukee, WI

    Mar.6 – Vic Theatre – Chicago, IL

    Mar.7 – Geek Bowl XIV – Chicago, IL

    Mar.8-9  – The Majestic – Detroit,MI

    Mar.13 – Union Transfer – Philadelphia, PA

    Mar.14 – Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY

    Apr.8-9  – Lincoln Theatre – Washington, DC

    Apr.10 – 930 Club – Washington, DC

    Apr.11 – Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY

    Apr.30 – May 1 – Royale – Boston, MA

    May 2 – Higher Ground – South Burlington, VT

    May 3 – Academy of Music Theatre – Northampton, MA

    May 5 – State Theater – Ithaca, NY

    May 6 – Town Ballroom – Buffalo, NY

    May 7-8 – Mr. Smalls Theatre – Millvale, PA

    May 9 – Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY

    May 12-13 – Beachland Ballroom & Tavern – Cleveland, OH

    May 14 – Vic Theatre- Chicago, IL

    May 15 – First Avenue – Minneapolis, MN

    May 16 – Fitzgerald Theater – St.Paul, MN

    May 17 – The Pageant – St.Louis, MO

  • Hearing Aide: Fruition ‘Wild As the Night’

    Portland-based quintet Fruition has come a long way since busking on the streets of Portland, and as they take the country by storm, they’re not afraid to dive into new ideas in their latest album release Wild As the Night.

    Perhaps the greatest talent of this group is their ability to weave in and out of different genres with ease, and their versatility can qualify them to perform at all types of festivals, from Telluride Bluegrass to Bonnoroo (both of which they’ve played).

    The album is a true testament to this group’s musicianship and experience. The opening track “Forget About You” is riveting, with piano-arpeggiated runs to fill the spaces between the thunderous drum beat that carries the song. As the commotion builds, we’re introduced to tight three part harmonies and rhythmic mandolin strums. The title track of the album has a rich balance that warms the mix, and just as you get past the tenderness of the ballad, you’re suddenly thrown into the trip-hop trance of “Sweet Hereafter.” It’s here where the beat thickens, the heads bob and the mandolin is given a bit more bite so as to mimic an electric guitar.

    Wild As the Night is unique glimpse into the band’s history, which has lasted more than several years. While they can all play multiple instruments, there is no fight for attention on this album. This group has their own language, and they leave space to breathe and allow each other to contribute. They even describe themselves as pieces of a bigger part when it comes to their music, and it’s evident in the album as well as their live shows. A band this creative and daring can generate a buzz quickly, so do yourself a favor and catch one of their shows while they’re still on the rise.

    Fruition will be stopping by the Hollow in Albany on February 1, and if you’re in NYC, you can catch them at the Brooklyn Bowl on February 5. For info and tickets, check out their website and Facebook page.

    Top Tracks: Forget About You, Wild As the Night, Sweet Hereafter

  • Gramatik Formulates Electronic Wizardry in Brooklyn

    Electronic wizard and free music advocate Gramatik made people dance into the early morning hours with his digital weave of urban and funky beats at the premiere EDM venue in Brooklyn, Avant Gardner. He was supported by incredibly talented colleagues Opiou and Balkan Bump for a night of organic, hip-hop-infused electronica.

    Balkan Bump is an electronic artist who mixes live instruments, world music and digital production. Trumpeter, producer and enthomusicoligist Will Magid is the brain child behind this band. A tapestry of funky beats, stellar trumpeting and dance hall vibes was cleverly woven throughout the set. At one point, Magid announced that he was playing a one word song, and everyone should sing along. That song was “Tequilla” by The Champs, and it was a huge hit with the crowd.

    Opiou, a producer and artist from New Zealand, was up next, and brought his Kiwi electronic heat. Also known as Oscar Davey-Wraight, this DJ is known for funky beats and deep bass grooves, as well as a penchant for keeping the dance floor alive well into the late night. Will Magid joined Opiou during the middle of his set on trumpet, creating a refreshing organic synergy. His signature buildups and drops continued throughout the set, framed with an engaging LED light display and plenty of fog.

    Gramatik took the stage to a packed crowd that was ready to dance. And dance they did. Denis Jašarević is Gramatik, hailing from Slovenia, and is known for his mind numbing hip-hop beats and fresh remixes. He played with guitarist Adam Stehr, adding an organic feel to his live performance. His stage setup included several LED panels that displayed colorful graphics, a healthy dose of fog, and a stacked lighting rig that fostered an elevated visual experience.

    This evening’s stellar performance included samplings of “No Sleep Til Brooklyn” by NYC’s own Beastie Boys and “Can’t Get Enough” by Gramatik’s frequent cohort Griz. Will Magid joined the party on trumpet for a tune, and the crowd was loving every second of this vibrant collaboration. Gramatik noted that this was his last show of 2019 and he sure went out with a bang.

  • Governors Ball Institutes New Age Policy for 2020

    The Governors Ball Music Festival, held annually on Randall’s Island in New York, is instituting an 18 and over age policy for festival attendees beginning in 2020. The 10th edition of the festival will be held June 5-7.

    The Yeah Yeah Yeahs perform at the 2018 GovBall

    Festival attendees 17 and younger must have a valid photo ID and be accompanied by someone 21 or older in order to gain entry to the 2020 festival. According to the new policy, “All persons aged 17 and under MUST attend with an adult who is 21 or older. Each adult must have a valid form of ID and may accompany up to TWO ticket holders aged 17 or younger. All individuals must arrive together, via the same entrance, and all individuals must have valid wristbands/tickets.”

    Festival co-founders Tom Russell and Jordan Wolowitz stated, “The changes we are implementing this year come directly from fan feedback and conversation. We are always listening, always evolving, and always trying to give our fans and our City the best festival they could ask for.”

    In addition to the new age policy, the festival also announced new VIP perks. The VIP Experience allows access to all VIP viewing ages at all four stages, specialty food vendors, shade tents, cell phone charging stations and comfortable seating options. New to the 2020 festival is a separate lane for transportation pick up points, private Wi-Fi, free water and air-conditioned bathrooms. VIP areas will be 21 and over.

    This year’s GovBall was fraught with weather issues. Organizers were forced to cancel the entire final day of the festival due to severe thunderstorms. The cancelation nixed performances by The Strokes and Nas along with 25 other acts.

    The 2020 lineup should be rolled out after the first of the year. For more information, follow the festival’s Twitter feed here or the website here.

  • Kamaal Williams Showcases His Modern Jazz on Two Floors at Elsewhere

    UK-based modern jazz artist Kamaal Williams brought his band to Brooklyn this past Saturday for a headlining show at Bushwick’s Elsewhere. Also known as Henry Wu, Williams has been putting out hip-hop-infused jazz music since 2012. With a musical foundation as a drummer, Williams has brought a percussionist mentality to his music, developing deep layers and rhythms on the keys.

    Kamaal Williams at Elsewere, Brooklyn – Photo: Joseph Buscarello

    In 2018, Williams founded his own record label, Black Focus Records, and released his debut as Kamaal Williams, The Return. The album is a true representation of the modern jazz scene, with influences from hip-hop, UK garage and funk melding with the jazz foundation in a unique way. All of these influences feature heavily on William’s NTS Radio residency as Henry Wu.

    Kamaal Williams at Elsewere, Brooklyn – Photo: Joseph Buscarello

    The show relied heavily on The Return, but throughout the night the band ventured in and out of unidentifiable musical passages and jams. The connection between Williams and the drummer was obvious as they cued off each other constantly, all while keeping in sync. Along with Williams’ large keyboard setup, the band consisted of drums, bass and tenor saxophone, but the depth of their sound made them seem much larger.

    Kamaal Williams at Elsewere, Brooklyn – Photo: Joseph Buscarello

    Shifting back to his roots as Henry Wu, Williams also released the 70th edition of the legendary series DJ Kicks this earlier this month. Still with jazz influences throughout, this release focuses more on the eclectic history of UK beat and garage music with Williams’ jazz style layered in. After the show at Elsewhere, Williams moved up to the second floor loft to DJ a late night party celebrating this release.

    Kamaal Williams at Elsewere, Brooklyn – Photo: Joseph Buscarello

    The band continues a tour of North America through December. It will be very interesting to hear how Williams follows up The Return in 2020.