NYS Music 202​1

Author: sage kuhlman

  • Grace Yurchuk: Footsteps On the Moon EP Review

    Grace Yurchuk, a lifelong musician and current NYU student, released her first EP, Footsteps On the Moon, on July 23rd. After her first two professional releases “Need Me” and “Good Together” hit all major streaming services in the spring, Grace Yurchuk has announced a follow up EP called Footsteps On the Moon. A true labor of love, this collection was conceived as dorm room pop during a pandemic.

    Grace Yurchuk Footsteps on the Moon

    With influences you can hear in every note, the musical storyteller has made five indie/pop hits with a little something everyone can enjoy. All written, composed, performed, and produced by herself, Grace spent many nights with the cool glow of a Mac screen illuminating her face as she tinkered with her latest creation. Her mission is to inspire other girls to discover the producer pathway, which can be just as meaningful as other “more glamorous” musical pursuits. There are so few female producers in the studio system, Grace is determined to raise that number, at least by one. 

    You’re Cute When You’re Mad

    The opening track deals with asking for positive attention despite the other party only contributing unhealthy things to the relationship. The backing is interspersed with electric guitar riffs that add a deep robust sound to an otherwise light pop song. Following the story, it tells of a know-it-all, teasing boy who thinks it’s cute to be rude to a potential partner. Fitting for the soundtrack to the culminating prom scene in a show when the protagonist finally realizes the popular boy isn’t worth the trouble.

    Good Together

    The second release from the album, a hopeful look at two young people hanging out and enjoying their time together, has been filling playlists since its debut in May. With the strong synth and beautifully layered vocals, this is the perfect feel good song. 

    Need Me

    The first ever professional release from Grace, “Need Me” slows down the EP. A melodic track that breaks up the dance hits and allows the listener to breathe for a second. Sticking to the title of the album, it feels like slow dancing in the moonlight or on the moon itself. By the third song on the EP, this is where the story of love gained and lost (or not reciprocated) really cements itself.

    Walk In the Rain

    With a tad more folk influence on this track, the guitar instrumentation is the star of this lamenting of unbalanced love. The build of the music into deep vocals filled with emotion pairs immaculately with the added piano. This is the song to listen to if you’re looking for a nice ballad.

    Supernova

    The closing track, aptly named for its otherworldly opening, feels almost ethereal. A lyric that could describe the running motif throughout the whole release is this line from the song “If I’d have known my heart would break I would do it again with a smile on my face.” A great bittersweet track to close out the EP that also leaves a feeling of wanting to keep repeating the music to find more meanings to the words.

    Overall this EP lived up to the expectations leading from the two first releases. A wonderful end of summer listen and a magnificent start to a career. To follow Grace in her future projects check out her social media, website, and Spotify.

  • Joe Bonamassa Releases New Blues Rock Single “Notches”

    Blues rock artist Joe Bonamassa is back with a brand-new single “Notches” from his highly anticipated upcoming album, due out later this year. 

    Joe Bonamassa

    “Notches” exemplifies the unwavering journey Joe has experienced while taking the road less traveled, ultimately leading him to find success. A bit older in years, but wiser in knowledge earned, his new sound has a raw and vital flavor, combined with a resolute skill that can only be gained through years of perseverance and unyielding dedication. He takes no prisoners with his hard-hitting anthem and holds nothing back, delivering a fresh unchartered sound that isn’t like anything he’s done before. The cinematically excellent official music video was directed by Paul van Kan.

    For recording “Notches,” Bonamassa hit the studio with longtime collaborators Kevin Shirley as producer and manager/business partner Roy Weisman as executive producer. The track was mixed by Bob Clearmountain (Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, Toto, Bon Jovi) and was co-written with Charlie Starr (Blackberry Smoke). Recorded in New York City at Germano Studios/The Hit Factory the band includes Steve Mackey (bass), Lachy Doley (piano), Bunna Lawrie (didgeridoo), Bobby Summerfield (percussion), and Late Night with David Letterman‘s Anton Fig (drums and percussion), along with Mahalia Barnes, Juanita Tippins, and Prinnie Stevens on backing vocals. The fantastic artwork on this single was created by famous graphic artist Hugh Syme (Rush, Aerosmith, Whitesnake).

    The lyrics allude to Joe’s tenured uphill battle with the music industry. Looking back, he reflects, “Twenty years ago, I recorded a record of covers that eventually was called ‘Blues Deluxe.’ It was recorded at Bobby Nathan’s studio in Manhattan. It captured an energy and purpose that always stuck with me as an artist…The music business is tough, very tough. Especially back in those days when major labels pulled all the strings and, in my case, all the punches.”

    Now, maybe more than ever, Bonamassa holds the power of controlling both his artistry and his business in both hands. With 24 #1 albums, yearly sold-out tours worldwide, and custom annual cruises, he’s a hard act to beat. Joe knows his worth, and albeit humble, he has no plans to back down now. “Notches” is a testament to his credentials. It’s Joe Bonamassa at his finest, ready to rock.

    This month Joe heads back out on tour for 42 shows, starting on the West Coast in the US at the end of this month, then traveling around the rest of the country throughout the fall season before taking the stage at sea for his sold out Keeping The Blues Alive At Sea VII cruise, sailing from Miami, FL to Ocho Rios, Jamaica on February 21-25, 2022, by way of the Norwegian Pearl. 

    Connect with Joe Bonamassa on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and stream or buy “Notches” here.

    For everything Joe Bonamassa, visit his website at jbonamassa.com. For tickets and full tour dates, visit jbonamassa.com/tour-dates.

  • Farm Aid 2021 Announces Festival and Lineup

    Farm Aid 2021 will be returning to Hartford, Connecticut, for a live, in-person festival on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Xfinity Theatre. A full day of music, family farmers, HOMEGROWN food, and a HOMEGROWN Village with skill-shares and other agrarian experiences.

    Farm Aid 2021

    Farm Aid’s annual festival is an all-day celebration of music and family farmers featuring a unique lineup of artists and genres, along with family farm-identified, local and organic foods as part of the HOMEGROWN Concessions.

    Farm Aid 2021 will be at Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, Connecticut, marking the second time that the festival has brought its music and food to the venue.

    Farm Aid

    Farm Aid 2021 will reunite family farmers and musician activists, with performances by Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson & Family, John Mellencamp, Neil Young, Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds, and Margo Price, as well as Sturgill Simpson, Tyler Childers, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Bettye LaVette, Jamey Johnson, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Allison Russell, Particle Kid, and Ian Mellencamp.

    The festival will be an outdoor, open air event. While they are working closely with venue staff, State, and other public health officials to ensure that the most up-to-date safety guidelines are followed, the event is more than three months away from the event. Detailed protocols will be published on their website as the event date approaches.

    For more information about the event visit the official Farm Aid website. 

    To stay connected follow their socials on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    A limited number of pre-sale tickets will be available beginning at 10 am EDT on Wednesday, July 21. Tickets for Farm Aid 2021 go on sale July 23 at 10 am EDT. Ticket prices range from $65 to $305 and will be available for purchase at LiveNation.com.

  • Pine Barrens Jam Music Festival debuts on Long Island This Fall

    Long Island musicians and artists have taken the struggle of living through the Covid-19 pandemic and turned it into inspiration to launch a brand-new music festival known as Pine Barrens Jam.

    Pine Barrens Jam

    Celebrating one of Eastern Long Island’s iconic natural treasures, Pine Barrens Jam will feature live music, art, local food, and more set in the East End’s unique landscape. Long Island’s first crowdfunded festival has gathered like-minded and hardworking local businesses and creatives to donate their time to put on this first-year event. Everyone involved with Pine Barrens Jam, from the producers to the performers, are from Long Island, showcasing what the region has to offer. This intimate yet socially distanced event will be held on Sept 18 at Ringhoff Farm in Center Moriches. The gates will open at noon. 

    Drop The 4, a high-energy funk-fusion group, will be headlining the Jelly Jam main stage. Alternating with the main stage will be the Lantern Sound Recording Rig acoustic stage, with a lineup of songwriters including Pete Mancini and Rorie Kelly. Local poets such as Bruce “AllOne” Pondolfo will be reading their pieces on the poetry & arts stage, curated by Melissa Marie Imagery, and local artists will be selling and creating work on the site. The fireside acoustic after party will feature The Belle Curves, Anne O’Rourke, and Sarah Gross swapping original songs. Throughout the day, food trucks and vendors will be selling everything from macarons to handmade embroidery.

    The festival welcomes support from businesses, artisans, and anyone who would like to play a part in putting on this inspiring, collaborative event. This is the start of an exciting new tradition in Long Island music and arts.

    Pine Barrens Jam

    Tickets and more information about sponsorships can be found at The Pine Barrens Jam website.

    To stay up to date connect with Pine Barrens Jam on socials including YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

  • Neo-Soul Artist Kristen Merritt Shares Summer Playlist

    Up-and-coming neo-soul artist Kristen Merritt paired up with NYS Music to create a summer playlist for fans to enjoy, leading up to the release of her debut album on Sept 14.

    Kristen Merritt
    NYS Music x Kristen Merritt Playlist

    Detroit native turned New York local, Kristen Merritt has taken advantage of the creative energy the city has to offer. Since 2019 she has released an EP and various singles all leading up to the formation of her debut album Joi. The latest release from the artist is the single “I Don’t Think About You,” which is the second taste of the upcoming album after “I’m Done” was put out this May.

    “I Don’t Think About You,” has a little bit more of the flavor that you’ll see present throughout the album. I say that because “I Don’t Think About You” is a little bit more of a love song. While “I’m Done,” is a love song in a way, it’s a breakup song, love was there at some point.” said Kristen adding, “Generally, the tone of the album is love songs that explore the different parts of love. Whether it’s beginnings, endings, something in between, just to describe how it feels to have love and to carry that love for someone.”

    While writing this album, Kristen went about it the same way she goes about life, “I’m very hype as a human being so I like to bring hype to everything that I’m doing. In addition to being hype, I’m very “go with the flow.” I hadn’t always been this way– and don’t get me wrong, I like the list, but for the most part, I am pretty free flowing and so I carry that into my writing process as well.” 

    “I will hear a melody in my head, sometimes that melody is on guitar and sometimes that’s a vocal melody. I’ll go ahead whether it’s vocal or guitar and record it in the recording function on my iPhone. Then I will freeform, stream of consciousness, let the thoughts flow. Then after the fact, I’ll go in tweak some metaphors, make sure things make sense, and make sure that there’s a story within what I’m expressing.”

    For specific songs and their meanings, Kristen always makes sure to focus on storytelling and the emotional weight, “On the smaller, micro level, different lines that hit me emotionally like, “Wow. Okay, that that came from a deep place, a vulnerable place.” Then on the macro level, when there is a story being told, and it feels like it started, in a way that is going to pique someone’s interest, and ended in a way that didn’t have to be completely resolved, that still felt like there was some level of finality then I know that I have written a good song.”

    “I Don’t Think About You” featured on the Kristen Merritt playlist

    This summer NYS Music and Kirsten Merritt have teamed up to give the people a “Summer Jamz” playlist to fit everyone’s newly liberated and fully vaccinated plans. Filled with songs like “Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino, “Toothache” by Topaz Jones, and of course Kirsten Merritt’s own tracks.

    “What I ended up doing to create the playlist was going through my liked songs on Spotify and any song I found that immediately brought a smile to my face I added it to the playlist. I have about maybe 300 songs on my liked songs so I made sure to comb through. The ones that really stood out to me where I loved this song, I loved the way that it feels, or the lyrics, or the message it imparts. I added that to the playlist. I wanted to share good feels with everyone.”

    While it is technically a summer playlist, for Kristen at least, that is just a state of mind. And that state of mind is put on repeat, “You could blame it on me being a Taurus. One time I saw a Zodiac thing that said, “Taureans, we love playing the same song 15 million times. You never get tired of it.” That is true for me. Where often I will play the newest songs that I’ve added because I’m so excited about that and then occasionally I’ll shuffle through. Unless it’s a colder or a rainier day outside I generally go for higher energy music and then if it is one of those other days I might do a little bit more chill music.” 

    As a growing artist, Kristen has been setting and making goals for her various works, “My biggest goal now– you know if you had asked me this a year ago, it would have been to release more music. So, that’s what I’m doing now and to get more comfortable with releasing music, because previously, while I felt there was an expectation and a standard that I was holding myself to with releasing music. It was good and I liked it, but there was a level of enjoyment and joy, if you will, that I hadn’t yet accessed in terms of feeling comfortable releasing music. At this point, that’s not the case with this album. I feel very excited to release the album.” 

    At any level of performing, getting in front of a crowd can be intimidating. Despite that feeling, Kristen can’t wait to give it another go, “Previous to the pandemic I was working on doing some sets with open mics and gigs like that. And while I was pretty comfortable, I was getting much more comfortable with my instrument because I haven’t been playing guitar for too long. There was still just a part of me that really wanted to be present in those performances. It may not come off as it but I feel internally stilted in a way that I want to tease out and untether a little bit.” 

    “Moving forward, I want to work on having fun at the live performances and feeling really present. So whether it’s busking in Washington Square Park, doing a gig at a small cafe, or all the way up to a larger venue. Having bandmates accompanying me, I want to enjoy performing. My work moving forward is allowing myself to be open and have fun with it.”

    “I’ve been very fortunate that the first song, “I’m Done,” got added to some Spotify playlists and I’m hoping the same for “I Don’t Think About You.” I want to let people know that I’m so happy that I’m getting to meet people digitally, even if it’s digitally for now. Being able to have my music out there and hopefully affecting people, whether it’s positively or negatively, I’m open to all types of effects just as long as it’s there. “

    The next single “Breathe,” is except to hit all platforms in late July or early August, while the album, Joi, will drop on Sept 14. 

    To stay informed, follow Kristen Merritt on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Spotify, and Apple Music and be sure to listen to the Kristen Merritt playlist “Summer Jamz” linked below.

  • Caveman Announces Tour Dates In Buffalo & NYC This Fall

    Caveman has announced nine brand new tour dates in September. The tour will be kicking off in Buffalo at The 9th Ward at Babeville on Sept 9. 

    Caveman

    Caveman previously shared “River,” alongside a visualizer, the latest single off their upcoming LP, Smash, out Aug 13 via Fortune Tellers. On the track, Matt Iwanusa of Caveman says “’River’ is mostly about how you survive when you have suffered a big loss; how to look at yourself and your actions moving forward.

    This song is about my cousin Ashley “smash” who we lost about 4 years ago. She was one of my best friends and sidekick in trouble-making all around NYC. She was one of the only people in the world who never judged me. Since she was my youngest cousin I felt like I had to protect her, but in the end, we protected each other. I miss her every day and this song coming out makes me think about the process it’s been to continue life without her and have the good memories continue to help me when I get down.

    Matt Iwanusa, Caveman

    Smash is the first new Caveman record since 2016’s “Otero War.” Much of it was composed just after the passing of Iwanusa’s cousin – her nickname Smash becoming the album title and much of the music inspired by her. 

    On a whim early last year, they connected with old friend Peter Matthew Bauer of the Walkmen and his label Fortune Tellers to quickly release “New Sides” a series of recordings they had freed up the rights to while waiting for what would become “Smash” to return to their control. Basically dropping the EP five days after it was mastered, it was an early step to just get out into the world again a little with the song “You Got A Feeling” getting picked up on several major playlists and radio stations. “It was just great for people to hear something from us,” said Iwanusa. “It feels like it’s been forever and now we’re sitting on so much new music that’s finally able to get out into the world.”

    Since Caveman began in 2010, they’ve released 3 full length records, toured endlessly (sharing stages with The War on Drugs, Jeff Tweedy, and Weezer, and playing festivals including Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Austin City Limits), and received accolades from everyone from Pitchfork to the New York Times. 

    Nowadays, they’ve grown from young punk kids into statesmen of sorts for New York indie music. Jimmy’s Brooklyn shop The Guitar Shop NYC is a city institution as well as a clubhouse for the band. Practicing and working out of Williamsburg nightclub Baby’s Alright during its down hours, the band is just beginning to recreate the momentum of their early career after a period of false starts, legal issues, and frustrating delays that slowed the release of their new record for several years. 

    For more information visit Caveman’s website and stay up to date by following the band’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

    Listen to tracks on Soundcloud, YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. Tickets for Caveman’s US Fall Tour are available now.

  • Circle Line Cruises Announces Summer 2021 Series Lineup

    Hear local and international artists bring their own spins and rhythms with the new Circle Line Music Series for summer 2021 from Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, featuring today’s hottest DJs through the season ahead. 

    Circle Line Music Series

    If ever there was a summer that called for dance parties, it’s this one. Groove to the sounds and let the music, waves, and good vibes transport you into the night, with a front row seat on the decks of Circle Line’s state-of-the-art Bronx-Class vessels and the most spectacular skyline in the world providing the light show. The route will be truly breathtaking, cruising right by the Statue of Liberty and other famous NYC Landmarks. 

    Since its start in 1945, Circle Line has hosted over 80 million guests and is known as “America’s Favorite Boat Ride.” Circle Line operates from Pier 83, located in Hudson River Park on 42nd Street and the Hudson River, convenient to Times Square, the High Line, and Hudson Yards. 

    All Circle Line Music Series cruises have first-class service, local and premium beer, wine, and spirits. Most of the Music Series cruises will have food options available for purchase at café-style dining outlets. The third-floor party deck will be the setting for gorgeous views of the city, Lady Liberty, and additional sights in every direction beyond.  

    Boarding starts at 7 pm (unless otherwise indicated) at Pier 83 at West 42nd Street, with cruising from 8 pm to 12 am (unless otherwise indicated), rain or shine, with only limited seating available. Attendees must be ages 21+ to board and need not follow any special protocols except wearing masks indoors. 

    Circle Line Cruise

    The 2021 Circle Line Music Series lineup includes: 

    Friday, July 16 (starts at 6:30 pm): Ukrainian Boat Party – No place parties like Ukraine, especially in New York! Get ready for music by Kanel, Misha Iogansen, DMC Cuba and MC Kosmos, with two dance floors, a Ukrainian Dance Show, and the very best Ukrainian vibe.  

    Saturday, July 17: Benny Soto Presents 718 Sessions: Danny Krivit Boat Party II  – The annual 718 Sessions Boat Party returns with music by New York’s own Danny Krivit, who has been DJing since the 1970s and has a gazillion records to prove it. 

    Sunday, July 18 (starts at 6 pm): Alex Bueno & Urbanda – DJ Charly, DJ Myriel, DJ Caldero    

    Sunday, July 18: Larry Levan’s Birthday Boat Party Celebration – Joey Llanos & David DePino  – Celebrating the DJ best known for his decade-long residency at Paradise Garage, not to mention his cult following. With Paradise Garage DJs Joey Llanos & David DePino.  

    Sunday, July 25 (runs 7:30pm-11:30pm): Ari El Dark Vocals  – Groove to the sexy dark vibe of one of NYC’s most successful running House Techno parties from DJ Ari El, whose ascendant, organic dark beats blended with Dark Vocals pay homage to what makes the dance scene great.    

    Friday, July 30: Boat Trippin’ – Justin Martin – The second Boat Trippin’ of the summer will pump things up with headliner Justin Martin, plus Love & Logic, Devon James, and Charles Meyer 

    Saturday, August 7: Dirty South Boat Party – Party with twice-Grammy-nominated, Australian-Serbian progressive house DJ Dragan Roganović, aka, Dirty South. 

    Saturday, August 21: Boat Trippin’ – Soul Clap  – Don’t even think of missing the season finale of Boat Trippin’ with headliner Soul Clap, plus Devon James and Love & Logic. 

    Sunday, August 22: Mood on the Hudson – Nicole Moudaber  – With her muscular techno, Lebanese/British DJ/Producer Nicole Moudaber will be a one-woman army on the waves.    

    Friday, August 27: Ilario / Alicante  – Livorno, Italy-born DJ/Producer Ilario Alicante’s success comes down to one thing: He started as a clubber, still considers himself a clubber, and will always maintain a vital link to the dance floor.    

    Sunday, August 29: Soul Alliance Boat Party – Talk about a party not to be missed! With music by Joaquin “Joe” Claussell and New York’s own Danny Krivit.  

    Friday, September 3: Deborah De Luca  – Born under the shade of the sails of Scampia in the far north of Naples, De Luca started as a waitress, spent years as a dancer, then pursued new genres and trends that see her playing fresh and innovative music in clubs all over the world.   

    Saturday, September 4: Mark Knight  – A rare and wonderful breed of musical heavyweight, DJ/Producer/and Grammy nominee Mark Knight has never rested on his laurels. His boundary-less musical library will be energizing to everyone on board.   

    Friday, September 24: Hernán Cattaneo  – Close out summer with an artist who needs no introduction – though he’s known the world over as “El Maestro.” With 30+ years of DJ-ing, 11 albums and more to his legacy, Hernán’s night on the Hudson will be one to remember.  

    For more information or to purchase tickets for a Circle Line Music Series cruise, go to Eventbrite.com. Ticket prices vary depending on the performance. 

  • Troy Summer Square Concert Series Begins July 9

    The Summer Square Concert Series takes place in the Music Hall Courtyard every Friday and Saturday night in July and August, starting at 6 pm, and is free and open to the public with no tickets required. All performances are weather dependent, there is no alternate rain location.

    Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Logo

    The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, a National Historic Landmark located at 30 Second Street, has been in perpetual use since its opening in 1875. World renowned for its near perfect acoustics, it has hosted performances by legions of world-renowned artists, from legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Isaac Stern, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Vladimir Horowitz, to the best on today’s contemporary music scene, including Joshua Bell, Andrew Bird, Steve Martin, Lyle Lovett, John Prine, and many others.  

    Jacob Shipley

    The Summer Square Concert Series will kick off Friday, July 9 with local Troy musician Jacob Shipley, an Alt/Folk artist whose influences run the gamut from Talking Heads to Phoebe Bridgers, Damien Rice to Lucius, and Halley’s Comet to the Decemberists.

    Carol Daggs - Summer Square Series

    On Saturday, July 10, Carol Daggs is welcomed back to the Music Hall Courtyard. She will be offering some tastefully arranged jazz standards and hip, groovy originals.

    To stay up to date with the series visit the Troy Music Hall’s website, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

    2021 Summer Square Series Concerts

    Friday, July 9 – Jacob Shipley

    Saturday, July 10 – Carol Daggs

    Friday, July 16 – Bossamba Brazilian Jazz Trio

    Saturday, July 17 – Deb Cavanaugh

    Friday, July 23 – MC^2 

    Saturday, July 24 – Joe Gorman

    Friday, July 30 – Jon Leroy & Joe Finn Blues Duo

    Saturday, July 31 – Teresa Broadwell Jazz Trio

    Friday, Aug 6 – Heard

    Saturday, Aug 7 – Sophia Vastek

    Friday, Aug 13 – Triskele

    Saturday, Aug 14 – Mark & Jill

    Friday, Aug 20 – Lost Radio Rounders w/ Paul “Bowtie” Jossman

    Saturday, Aug 21 – Julia Alsarraf

    Friday, Aug 27 – Jordan Taylor Hill

    Saturday, Aug 28 – Ryder Cooley

  • moe. and Twiddle to Headline 2021 ADK Music Festival, Daily Lineups Announced

    This year’s ADK Independence Music Festival lineup has been announced and features two big names that Upstate New Yorkers are quite familiar with. The Lake George festival will take place on Labor Day Weekend, Sept 3-5 with headliners moe. and Twiddle stepping up to the plate for the 2021 edition.

    ADK Music Fest

    moe. will return to their moe.down Labor Day roots as they play four sets over two nights with Twiddle performing two headlining sets of their own. All ADK Music Fest performances will be located at the Charles R. Wood Festival Commons in the heart of Lake George Village, across the street from the lake.

    There will be a special tribute to Prince and David Bowie performed by Prince Bowie featuring members of Pink Talking Fish, Snarky Puppy, Kung Fu and much more.  The lineup also features sets from Roots of Creation, Kung Fu, Lucid, Bella’s Bartok, Eggy, Neighbor, Dogs In A Pile, Annie in the Water, Baked Shrimp, and Hartley’s Encore. 

    The ADK Music Festival will have a selection of beer and wine, a full bar, food vendors, and merchandise for sale, all available for purchase after entry. As well a great view of the Lake George fireworks on Saturday evening.  

    Shows will begin at 2 pm on Friday and 12:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday and run until 11 pm each night. The event is open to attendees of all ages and children 12 and under are free. VIP tickets include admission to all 3 days of the festival, a meal each day, half priced adult beverages, $2 waters / soft drinks, a private viewing area (with private bars), and access to private bathrooms.

    ADK Music Fest

    3-Day General Admission tickets and a limited number of VIP tickets are on sale now for the 2021 Adirondack Independence Music Festival. To learn more and get tickets, visit the ADK Music Fest official website. 

  • Blue Note Jazz Club Announce Chris Botti Holiday Residency

    New York City’s Blue Note Jazz Club has announced the return of Grammy Award-winning master trumpeter and composer Chris Botti to the Blue Note stage for his 17th annual holiday residency.

    From Dec 6 to Jan 2, Botti will perform two shows a night at 8 pm and 10:30 pm ET. The schedule includes performances on Christmas and New Year’s Eve, ringing in 2022, and rounding out Blue Note’s historic 40th anniversary celebration.

    Chris Botti

    Since 1981, Blue Note Jazz Club has been a cultural institution in New York City. Fans have anxiously awaited Botti’s return to Blue Note Jazz Club since his last holiday residency in 2019. Previous concert-goers have seen the jazz-pop powerhouse’s usual Gold and Platinum albums, paired with Blue Note’s usual surprise drop-ins and celebrity cameos, including Sting, John Mayer, Caroline Campbell, and Veronica Swift. Following the jazz club’s 15-month closure due to the pandemic, this year promises even more surprises and star power. 

    Speaking not only for myself, but for my band as well, it’s the gig we look forward to all year long,” said Botti. “Blue Note is the best jazz club in the world, in the best city, at the best time of the year. We’ve been doing it for 17 years, and to come to such an incredible environment with fans from all over the world, many who have seen us in various cities throughout the world earlier that year, and who then come to our gig at the Blue Note is a very special feeling. We hope it never ends.

    Chris Botti

    In addition to the main acts that feature the likes of Robert Glasper, Pat Metheny, Christain McBride, Joshua Redman, Ron Carter, and Chris Botti, Blue Note regularly showcases up-and-coming jazz, soul, hip-hop, R&B, and funk artists. 

    Special Guests include:

    Andy Snitzer (Saxophone) Dec 6 – 19 & Dec 27 – Jan 2

    Chad Lefkowitz-Brown (Saxophone) Dec 20 – 26

    Caroline Campbell (Violin) Dec 6-14

    Erin Schreiber (Violin) Dec 15-22

    Anastasia Mazurok (Violin) Dec 23 – Jan 2

    Sy Smith (Vocals) Dec 6-19 & Dec 30-31

    Shayna Steele (Vocals) Dec 20-23 & Dec 26 – 29 & Jan 1 – 2

    Veronica Swift (Vocals) Dec 6-29 & Jan 1-2

    Jonathan Johnson (Vocals) Dec 31

    The Chris Botti holiday residency at the Blue Note has become an iconic tradition in New York City. We are so happy to be able to announce the return of this month-long celebration which also coincides with our 40th anniversary.

    Steven Bensusan, CEO of Blue Note Entertainment Group

    To stay up to date with the Blue Note Jazz Club visit their website, or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

    Tickets for Blue Note Jazz Festival and Botti’s residency shows can be purchased at bluenotejazz.com