NYS Music 202​1

Author: Maddie McCafferty

  • Backline Presents Livestream Event for Mental Health Awareness

    From New York, NY, Backline will host “Set Break” on April 10th. This will be their first-ever livestream fundraiser on The Relix Channel, exclusively on Twitch. The event will feature live performances worldwide, public service announcements from music professionals, and immersive wellness experiences also.

    Backline dedicates their time to connecting music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness resources as a nonprofit organization. Backline seeks to provide a safe, private, and immediate place to go for help with the difficulties that life in this industry brings.

    Set Break intends to bring the music industry together to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the community. During the event, money will be raised to expand Backline’s programs and services in a time when they are needed most. In addition, Set Break will incorporate wellness experiences from Wanderlust, Breathwrk, The Big Quiet, and Meditation Studio by Muse to promote collective healing for those greatly affected by the closures within the last year.

    Backline has provided a safe place to land for industry workers during this time, and the event will bring together fans, artists, and organizations who all believe in the cause and want to create a safer and more supported environment for music to thrive.

    Backline’s Executive Director Hilary Gleason

    The lineup for Set Break expands across an array of genres. The event will have performances by Alanis Morissette, Leon Bridges, Dawes, Black Pumas, Sara Bareilles, Bob Weir & Wolf Bros, Ben Folds, Oteil Burbridge, Los Lobos, Michael Franti, K. Flay, Galactic, American Authors, Larkin Poe, Deer Tick, DJ Millie, and more. Many musicians are coming together to raise mental health awareness and show support.

    Join this Movement Through Livestream

    Set Break will feature conversations with the Black Mental Health Alliance to represent the music industry’s diverse experiences. Also, there will debut findings conducted by the Tour Health Research Initiative (THRIV). The free event will have opportunities to donate and support the mental health of the music industry. In addition to supporting Backline, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Crew Nation and Sweet Relief’s Mental Health Fund. Fans even have the opportunity to turn their physical activity into charitable donations by signing up for the wellness app Sweatcoin before the event. Make sure to tune in to Set Break on April 10th to support the cause!

  • The Orchestra Now (TŌN) to livestream Two Concerts

    The Orchestra Now, aka TŌN, will be conducting two shows to livestream on April 10 and May 1. With 72 young musicians from 14 different countries, The Orchestra Now seeks to make symphonic music relevant today.

    The Orchestra Now
    Photo Credit: David DeNee

    Conductor, educator, and music historian Leon Botstein founded TŌN in 2015. This graduate program at Bard College has grown exponentially and has undoubtedly begun to leave its mark. The concerts are free, with a suggested donation of $25-50.

    On April 10, Leon Botstein leads TŌN in Mendelssohn’s “Scottish” Symphony and Berstein’s Serenade. This performance will feature violinist Zongheng Zhang also. The program additionally will have the work of Ácana from Tania León and Stravinsky’s Concerto for Piano and Wind Instruments, performed alongside pianist Blair McMillen. RSVP here for a direct link to the livestream on the day of the concert.

    On May 1, the show is dedicated to the memory of Stuart Strizler-Levine, a beloved Bard faculty member since 1964. Leon Botstein will conduct the Orchestra in the first of two concerts in the Beethoven tribute. This first program will present the composer’s 5th and 7th Symphonies in addition to his Triple Concerto for violin, cello, and piano. This start to the Belated Beethoven Birthday Celebration will feature violinist Adele Anthony, cellist Peter Wiley, and pianist Shai Wosner. RSVP here for a direct link to the Livestream on the day of the concert. This commemoration will continue on May 8.

    The Orchestra Now
    Photo Credit: Matt Dine

    Members of The Orchestra Now are hand-picked from the world’s leading conservatories. With The Orchestra Now offering onstage introductions and demonstrations, writing concert notes, and having one-on-one discussions with patrons, TŌN musicians can further share their unique visions.

  • The Restless Age Mix Campy and Yacht Rock in “Take It”

    Power trio from the Hudson Valley, The Restless Age, has just released their inspiring song “Take It.” The band’s modern yet nostalgic feel pulls listeners in instantly, weaving between genres effortlessly while also mastering three-part harmony.

    The Restless Age

    Composed of Will Bryant, Lee Falco, and Brandon Morrison, The Restless Age uses various instruments and have no limits on what they incorporate in their music. The constant change from developing an electric sound with keys to bass and drums to even three acoustic guitarists around one microphone. The Restless Age is always exploring new ways to tell stories and spread their enthusiastic spirits.

    The “Take It” music video premiered on Saturday, March 20. The video gives tribute to camp and yacht rock. With Bryant on the keyboard, Falco on drums, and Morrison on bass, the musicians maintain a tight sound. The trios shared vocals also deliver a collective precision.

    When it came to the songwriting, the performance and the retro wardrobe, we just didn’t hold back. We’ve never made a point of taking ourselves too seriously, and this video makes that abundantly clear.

    Will Bryant

    “Take It” is just the beginning of new releases of The Restless Age. The band has additional singles set to release in the coming weeks, as well as a new album. Until then, make sure to check out “Take It” available on major platforms.

  • Inclusion Dining and Jams welcomes Ryan Montbleau on April 11

    On April 11, Ryan Montbleau will team up with Inclusion Dining & Jams to provide a musical experience that acknowledges people of all abilities. Inclusion Dining provides a sensory-friendly restaurant experience intended to accommodate those with autism and other special needs. In addition to Montbleau’s performance, there will also be sensory-friendly music, yoga-inspired dance, collaborative art, sing-alongs, and much more. 

    Inclusion Dining

    Ryan Montbleau’s empowering messages within his music make him a positive outlet in this time of darkness. He has mastered a balance between rock and roll energy with folk introspection. Montbleau dedicates his work to providing hope for those going through hard times. The artist’s inspiring mantra has particularly helped individuals with disabilities feel included. 

    Presented by Accessible Festivals, this inclusive event at MusikFest Café has been designed for people of all disabilities. The dining experience includes menu items for special diets, modified picture menus, social stories to support ordering and waiting, table-top activities, and therapists on site. Also, Inclusion Dining & Jams will be following health and safety procedures due to COVID-19. These regulations consist of practicing social distancing, mask requirement, temperature check before entry, and enhanced cleaning procedures. 

    Tickets are now available for purchase here. For folks outside of Bethlehem, a donation-based livestream will be occurring to join in on the evening. The show and livestream will have accessibility features that include visual, auditory, cognitive, physical, and sensory. Live ASL interpreters, captions, and audio and image descriptions will be available as well.

  • Live Jazz is Making a Comeback at The Terrace at Delaware Park

    The pandemic has caused an immense amount of hardships that swept over the world. Both individual livelihood and business establishments alike have had to deal with these dilemmas. The Terrace at Delaware Park has had to delve into its own resourcefulness to ride out this past year. 

    The Terrace
    The Terrace at Delaware Park

    Located at the historic Marcy Casino building at Delaware Park and Hoyt Lake, The Terrace has experienced various closings and reopening since March 2020. The establishment in Buffalo has altered seating arrangements and event rooms in order to meet COVID-19 regulations. 

    This March, JazzBuffalo is partnering with The Terrace again to help out during this tough time. Jazz events are set to accompany dinner and brunch. Last week Saranaide and Banjo Juice Trio performed outstandingly at The Terrace. Two more performances are set to take place from Mary Ramsey and Inga Yanoski and Carina & The Six String Preacher.  

    A Celtic Brunch with Mary Ramsey & Inga Yanoski

    The Terrace

    Sunday, March 21 @ 11:30 am – 3:00 pm at The Terrace at Delaware Park

    Come to the Pan-Am Room for a St. Patty’s Day Brunch! JazzBuffalo is partnering with The Terrace to bring “A Celtic Brunch.” This event will feature Mary Ramsey, a lead singer, and violist for the 10,000 Maniacs, as well as violinist Inga Yanoski. Inga has toured with 10,000 Maniacs, is a member of the band The Bards, and performs with the BPO. Music performances will be held from 12 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. The cost is $10 per person plus food and beverage purchase.

    Dinner Jazz with Carina & The Six String Preacher

    The Terrace

    Friday, March 26 @ 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm at The Terrace at Delaware Park

    On this date, The Terrace is conducting dinner jazz at this scenic location. Look to reserve a table for dinner overlooking Hoyt Lake and Delaware Park. Carina & The Six String Preacher blend jazz, Latin, and pop to create their signature sound. The cost is $10 per person plus a dinner bill with a $25 minimum.

    Call The Terrace at 716-886-0089 or visit them online to make reservations.

  • Interview: Zola Opens up About Misogyny in New Single

    18-year-old singer-songwriter Zola releases her new single “Not Like Other Girls” today, March 12. Building her fanbase in the New England area, the young artist blends indie, pop, and R&B. Zola integrates her raw and honest lyrics within her work also.

    Zola

    Zola’s music is oriented around her vulnerability. The way in which she can unapologetically be herself is what resonates with many fans. Although, at such a young age, Zola has had to face hardships within the music industry. Zola shares with NYS Music:

    I think, especially being a woman in the industry, there’s a completely different set of expectations placed on us than on our male counterparts. Women in music constantly have to reinvent themselves in order to stay relevant and, in general, face way more judgment on whether or not we’re ‘basic.’ If you’re basic, that has a sort of negative connotation, but if you’re ‘alternative’ you’re trying too hard. It’s an impossible battle to win.

    Zola

    This “frustration and relationship between judgment and identity” had a major influence on how she wrote the new song. Being a young woman in this industry places a microscope on one’s work. Zola takes this scrutiny, though with an enlightening and mature perspective. She aims to fit no one’s narrative but rather create her own.

    Zola

    Calling Out Misogyny

    “Not Like Other Girls” sets a haunting tone with penetrating piano keys, moody guitar chords, and a synthesizer. Layered over this is Zola’s riveting vocals that effortlessly glide with the beat. When constructing this single, Zola shared that she first began with the lyrics and then built the additional instrumental sounds around that. As this single is very personal to Zola, she wanted the song’s tone to be reflective of the meaning.

    The song deals with “finding the courage to stand up for one’s self.” This phrase ‘not like other girls’ is inherently misogynistic because it instinctively devalues other girls. Zola purposefully utilizes this phrase in order to bring attention to this popularized but damaging mindset.

    The ‘Not Like Other Girls’ trope is very interesting and complicated, and there is definitely a growing discussion about how the whole concept is rooted in misogyny. The whole thing started out as women trying to remove themselves from femininity, in order to set themselves apart and prove superior to other women. Oftentimes it’s even just a ploy for male attention. I think in order to break down this harmful trope and mindset we need to educate people on what it actually means, and have conversations with other women about it. Being into popular things isn’t bad, and being into unpopular things doesn’t make you better. Everyone should be able to like what they like, but if I see a girl with a superiority complex, I’m not going to think twice about calling her out.

    Zola
    Zola

    Breaking Down Barriers and Building Connections

    Zola values the importance of her individuality and has expressed that freely in her work. Being personal with her fans has built a relatability that is hard to find. Her new single is one of many that encapsulates her artistry and vulnerability.

    I’m just a very vulnerable person, so my music and what I write directly represents who I am. I’m driven by everything; life experiences, relationships, hardships. Life’s too short to not be vulnerable, because what’s the point if you don’t let yourself feel, isn’t that what music is all about? I like to think so.

    Zola

    Check out “Not Like Other Girls” out now on major platforms.

  • AJA Creates Inclusivity Through Diversity

    International role model AJA (they/them) has broken down barriers in their new single titled “21 Roads,” featuring Katie Jobes. The revered artist and performer has brought non-binary visibility into the music industry, while also building a safe community among their fanbase. AJA is of an ecletic Puerto Rican, Nigerian and Egyptian background. Being an adopted Afro-Latino from Brooklyn has also had a lot of influence over their music and this new single. 

    AJA
    Photo Credit: Tanner Abel

    “21 Roads” is the first single off of AJA’s upcoming sophomore album CROWN. The song delves into being stuck at a crossroad, re-evaluating and learning to prioritize yourself. Protecting your happiness and being at the forefront of your own destiny is what AJA preaches.

    The artist used three tracks on the single: an interlude, the actual song, and recorded drumming. AJA shares that “the beat of the song, the interlude sample of the drums as well as the instruments, singing, and chants that are on the drumming — these are traditional songs for Esú Elegba, who is the gatekeeper, and opener of all roads in the Lukumi Faith; which stems from Nigeria.”

    Watch the Lyric Video for “21 Roads” Here

    Later this spring, AJA will release CROWN. The album incorporates themes of back spirituality, fame, race, class, gender, and sexuality. CROWN deals with AJA’s hardships and their adjustment to vulnerability. Following their critically acclaimed debut album, Box Office (2019), CROWN has high anticipation. 

    AJA
    Photo Credit for CROWN Album Cover: Tanner Abel

    AJA constantly uplifts their fans through inspiring perspective, fashion, and activism. They have taken their positive outlook to over 180 live shows and even sold out venues worldwide. The new single is nothing short of AJA’s empowering insight.

    “21 Roads” (featuring Katie Jobes) is available on major platforms. Listen to the single below.

  • Guitarist Ryan Dugré Hones his Technical Mastery on New LP

    Ryan Dugré is a New York-based multi-instrumentalist and composer. originally from Holyoke, MA. On February 19, the artist released his nostalgic LP Three Rivers.

    Photo Credit: Annette Wong

    Beginning in 2019, Dugré wrote the album’s instrumental pieces. Dugré’s work established shadowy undertones and an introspective melody. His utilization of guitar at the forefront of his work built the calmness of Three Rivers. He also supported this sound with piano, synth, strings, and sparse percussion. 

    The song-writing process behind Three Rivers was relatively fast-paced. Dugré developed an exercise where he created a new piece of music each day. He did this in order to build a routine of writing and creativity. The work he had to compose daily consisted of an improvisation, loose sketch, or a fully orchestrated piece. 

    Three Rivers Album Artwork

    Dugré’s techniques allowed him to be vulnerable with his many colleagues who performed on the album alongside him. Three Rivers was re-recorded in October 2019 in Brooklyn with engineer Adam Sachs. This LP featured string arrangements from Ian Mcllelan Davis and contributions from Brett Lanier, Sean Mullins, Adam Dotson, and Will Graefe. Also, Leo Abrahams mixed the album.     

    The artist initially forced himself to commit to ideas without leaving time for second-guessing. He strived for an honest depiction of his original thoughts. Despite Dugré’s fast-paced process, he was able to develop intimate pieces throughout his work. Each track encapsulates the musician’s cinematic guitar-led instrumentals. He builds a simplistic mastery that is especially evident on his solo guitar track “Glace Bay.”

    Ryan Dugré on “Glace Bay“:

    Over the past year, I have spent time looking through what records I could find about my ancestors. It has always intrigued me to try to picture what their lives were like. Hearing about their struggles and the relative poverty they endured puts things into perspective for me. Glace Bay is where my great-grandfather Edward Macmillan was born. It’s a coal mining town on the eastern tip of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. His father died in the mines in 1897 when he was three, leaving him as the eventual provider of the family. This piece is named in his memory.

    Previously, Dugré has shared his elegant music at Le Festival d’été de Québec, Bonnaroo, and Haldern Pop Fest. He even has performed at NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Series and on BBC 6 Radio. Dugré is on the rise, and his new LP is nothing short of this. Make sure to check out Three Rivers available now on major platforms.

  • “It Runs in the Blood” Takes Indie Band Council From Farm Life to Stardom

    The indie band of brothers, Council, has announced their upcoming EP It Runs In The Blood. On May 28, their third EP of will be released on all platforms.

    It Runs in the Blood

    Council consists of three brothers: Pat, Doug, and Andy Reeves. As the trio grew up just outside Syracuse in Baldwinsville, NY, they’ve committed to trading a life of farming for their true passion; music. From working in the fields during the day to perfecting their craft in their family barn at night.

    The debut single off of the new EP, “Faded Purple White Trash Royal”, was recently released. The track is available on major platforms and provides listeners a sneak peek of the anthemic tone expected on It Runs In The Blood.

    Listen to Council’s Debut Single Here

    Council‘s new EP contains singles, “I See Sparks,” “Still We Rise,” “Faded Purple White Trash Royal,” and the title track, “It Runs In The Blood.” Apart from the title track, the entire EP was written and produced by Council. The track “It Runs In The Blood” was co-produced and co-written by Kevin Andreas. Andreas is known for engineering A$AP Rocky’s hit, “Peso.”

    It Runs in the Blood
    Cover Artwork for EP

    Council has begun to build a name for themselves. They have worked with countless household names and appeared on popular programs. The brothers’ band has played shows at mainstays in NYC. Also, they have opened for bands such as The Strumbellas, The All American Rejects, and The Kooks. The musicians have even had their music played throughout the 2018 Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup, American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, and the Premier League, to name a few.

    As this band has begun to establish themselves in the music scene with their unique sound, they are definitely a group to watch out for. It Runs In The Blood will undoubtedly only add to Council’s growing success. Although this EP’s release isn’t for a few months, make sure to check out the band’s previous EP, Haunts Me.

  • Fiona Glenn Teams Up with Award-Winning Composer David Baron

    Mid-Hudson Valley Native Fiona Glenn worked with award-winning composer David Baron on the upcoming single “Don’t Give Up.” On February 26, this motivational piano ballad will release.

    At just 16 years old, Fiona Glenn has sung with various artists such as Pete Seeger, Natalie Merchant , and Simi Stone. She even appears throughout David Baron’s Whisperers album, including the title track where she sings the lead vocals.

    Watch the “Whisperers” Music Video Here

    As a composer, arranger, engineer, and producer, David Baron has worked with some of the most notable musicians. His influential Woodstock sound has merged with Lenny Kravitz, The Lumineers, Shania Twain, Vance Joy, and many more.

    With previous experience collaborating, Fiona Glenn and David Baron delved into their new single head-on. “Don’t Give Up” blends Glenn’s rich voice with Baron’s piano performance. Also, the composer integrates a 40-piece orchestra and a throwback rhythm section throughout. The duo’s talent produces a retro-modern production with high fidelity and antique recording gear. As if the single didn’t already have enough expertise featured, the song was even mastered by Chris Athens, whose credits include Drake and The Beastie Boys.

    “Don’t Give Up” was written for Baron’s wife, who stood by him during his health issue. Baron wrote these lyrics as a testament to an isolating and hopeless experience. These feelings are probably familiar to many in the circumstances of today. “Don’t Give Up” serves as a light in these times of darkness. Keep a lookout for the new single later this week.