Category: Reviews

Dead and Company Mark Return to NY with Home Runs and a Trip to Yasgur’s Farm
A New York Welcome at Citi Field – Review/Photos by Steve Malinski

It was otherwise just a typically warm summer NYC evening to usher in this past Friday night when Dead and Company took the stage at Citi Field. After some strange times in the two-year gap since their last stop in NYC (and some Covid-19 checks before entering), however, the music restored a sense of normalcy and familiarity with experiencing a large-scale concert.

Just as if Dead & Co. hadn’t skipped a beat since their 2019 tour, they took the stage without an ounce of rust from their pandemic downtime. As they shuffled into the first set with “Good Times,” John Mayer commanded the mic, signaling the core role he has developed in this iteration of the Grateful Dead family. Bob Weir stepped up to the plate sharing the lead with Mayer on vocals throughout the night, rallying the Queens crowd for the New York City line in “Ramble on Rose.” The youngest surviving member of the original Grateful Dead lineup, Weir was nimble on his feet as he enjoyed crafting the rhythms just as much as the crowd relished the sound.

Set two took a trip to the late 1970s-era Dead setlists, featuring the classic pairing of “China Cat Sunflower/I Know You Rider” and fluidity from the start to finish of the set. The night was capped off on a high note with an energetic “U.S. Blues” and an encore covering The Band’s “The Weight,” featuring a trade of choruses between Jeff Chimenti, Mayer, Weir, and Oteil Burbridge.

Dead and Company Citi Field – Flushing, NY 8/20/21

Set 1: Let the Good Times Roll, Bertha, Good Lovin’ -> Big Railroad Blues, Ramble On Rose, They Love Each Other, Cassidy -> Casey Jones

Set 2: Eyes of the World -> Uncle John’s Band -> China Doll -> China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider -> Drums/Space -> Spanish Jam -> Althea, Stella Blue, U.S. Blues

Encore: The Weight
Visit NYS Music’s interactive Grateful Dead in New York series, So MaNY Roads

Dead and Company Recreate 1969’s Woodstock Performance at Bethel Woods – Review by Matt Romano, Photos by Steve Malinski

It’s true, The music never stopped for the Grateful Dead. It’s newest reincarnation as Dead and Company continued its trip through the Empire State at Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center on Monday, August 23. The band played on a stage set among the rolling hills of the original 1969 Woodstock festival. A sense of delight was in the air for all those on the adjacent path of the site towards the stage for this year’s festivities.

They opened with “Hell in a Bucket,” this time enjoying the ride. Jeff Chimenti immediately stepped out as he would the whole night on the keyboards. The band really seems to play off Jeff and the musical ideas he passes onstage. John Mayer especially picks up on the mixolydian blues concept Pigpen started in the ‘60s by taking lead on “Easy Wind.” This track is ideal for Mayer’s blues background and the words, “Easy wind going ‘cross the Bayou today. There’s a whole lotta women. Out on the streets in a red today.”

Mayer also stepped out in front for “Brown Eyed Women,” singing as humbly as Jerry sang about Delilah Jones. The band then drifted off into the seas to end the first set. A “Row Jimmy” out in the mist led to a “Lost Sailor,” and they came back to shore with a “Saint Of Circumstance.”

Tigers in trance deserve a second chance. That’s what the band was able to get on the other side of the hill from their Woodstock ‘69 performance. The Grateful Dead may have been one of the more famous performers at Woodstock, but their set didn’t exactly knock it out of the park. They played from 10:30 pm to midnight on the second day, but their entire performance was filled with technical difficulties. The band was even subject to electric shock on stage although that truly could have been them representing their infamous logo.

But on this night on the other side of the hill, Bob Weir said at the start of the second set, “Now 50-some years ago right here, we tried this next little sequence and it didn’t go so well. It didn’t work so we’re gonna try it again.” With that, Dead and Company, in all their glory, recreated the five song setlist from the 1969 festival that includes covers by Merle Haggard and Bobby Blue Bland: “St Stephen,” “Mama Tried,” “Dark Star,” “High Time,” “Turn on your Lovelight.”

Weir, who was 22 during the original Woodstock, sang Merle’s “Mama Tried” with the same howl in 2021 that he had in 1969. “I turn 21 in prison doing life without parole. No one could steer me right but Mama tried.” Bobby Bland’s “Lovelight” percolated throughout the set with John Mayer, who is no gravity stranger, wanting to be where the light is. The old memory set faded into a “Drums/Space” jam that featured a new “bass” segment from Oteil Burbridge – who has joined the Rhythm Devils on Halloween at Madison Square Garden – took his own featured piece. He was left on stage solo with only pure bass notes to the crowd’s ears. The band joined Oteil on his sky journey for “Space” While up there, they decide to return to the Garcia classic “Standing on the Moon,” to remind of summer tours past. Bob Weir and John Mayer then brought out the acoustics to send everyone back on the tree lined paths with “Ripple.”

You certainly could feel Jerry’s spirit in the same rolling Catskill hills that his music happily haunts. His music helped Dead and Company continue to set the bar high for likely their only recreation of this old performance. “It’s not enough to be the best at what you do. You must be perceived as the ONLY one who does what you do”

Dead and Company hit Darien lake Wednesday night, then head to Saratoga Springs on Friday.

On your way to SPAC, don’t forget that Stewart’s Shops is your ice cream shop! With over 345 shops in 31 counties across New York and southern Vermont, the convenience store chain is known for their fresh & local dairy products. With dozens of choices at the cone counter, you’re bound to find something you love! Try a shake, sundae, or cone today, What’s Your Flavor?

Dead and Company Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center – Bethel, NY 8/23/21

Set 1: Hell in a Bucket, Easy Wind, Loser, Brown-Eyed Women, Throwing Stones, Row Jimmy, Lost Sailor -> Saint of Circumstance

Set 2: St. Stephen -> Mama Tried -> Dark Star -> High Time -> Turn On Your Love Light, Drums/Space/Oteil Bass Solo -> Deal -> Standing on the Moon -> Turn On Your Love Light

Encore: Ripple
August 26, 2021
Jackson Browne and James Taylor delight and Excite at SPAC
Thousands of fans packed the beautiful grounds of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) in Saratoga Springs on a spectacular August evening to listen to the familiar and steady voices of James Taylor and Jackson Browne.

Jackson Browne got the evening started, singing a mix of his classic songs. If you closed your eyes during the performance, you’d be hard-pressed to know that it was not the Jackson of one of his early albums. Fans enthusiastically greeted each song, many singing along with the familiar lyrics. The audience erupted in cheers when Jackson brought out James Taylor to accompany him on a few songs. He mentioned that knowing this tour was on the horizon made the last year and a half more bearable. Both performers mentioned how much fun they’ve been having on this tour, so much so that they have added 18 new dates.

Jackson Browne at SPAC

After a short break, James Taylor‘s set began with images and videos playing on a gigantic fretboard above the stage. Pictures of James throughout his career, fans at different James Taylor shows, and videos of fans playing some of James’ songs warmed up the enthusiastic crowd. As the darkened stage lit up, James emerged in his trademark cap and jacket and performed songs from his massive songbook.

James Taylor at SPAC

The crowd didn’t hesitate to call out requests, and James interacted with the crowd to set up his next selection. “It’s funny you should mention North Carolina,” before segueing into “Copperline,” a song about the area he grew up in. As a James, I was happy to hear “Sweet Baby James” make the setlist. The songs served as a lullaby of sorts to me and transported me back to my youth. Jackson Browne joined Taylor for an encore of “Take it Easy,” and James ended the night with “You Can Close Your Eyes,” a duet with his son Henry

The tour continues in the northeast with one more show in New York at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater, and two shows in New Jersey before heading south and west in the fall.

James Taylor Setlist: Country Road, Never Die Young, Copperline, That’s Why I’m Here, Mexico, You Make It Easy, Line ‘Em Up, Steamroller Blues, Easy as Rollin’ Off a Log (Johnnie ‘Scat’ Davis cover), Sweet Baby James, Fire and Rain, Carolina in My Mind, Shower the People, How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)

Encore: Shed a Little Light, Take It Easy (with Jackson Browne), You’ve Got a Friend, You Can Close Your Eyes (with Henry Taylor)
August 25, 2021
Armand Hammer And The Alchemist Bring Underground Rap To SummerStage
Armand Hammer and The Alchemist headlined Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage on Sunday, August 15, showcasing underground rap from their latest record Haram. The lineup for the day was rounded out by an opening DJ set from GENG PTP, followed by short sets from Moor Mother and Fielded.

Armand Hammer and The Alchemist at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

As with most SummerStage shows, the evening started off with a series of short films, including a two minute short Pumbucha in which a low-level influencer tries to push a disgusting beverage that only causes them physical and emotional pain. After the film, DJ and producer GENG PTP took to the stage to spin original songs and classic hits, including “All Caps” in tribute to the late MF DOOM (remember, all caps when you spell the man’s name). During the set, underground rapper AKAI SOLO joined in and performed “Nebula” and “True Truths” off of his records Eleventh Wind and Mad Space respectively.
GENG PTP at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photos by Buscar Photo
Next up was genre-defying poet and multi instrumentalist Moor Mother. Blending spoken word poetry with avant-garde and jazz influenced beats and soundscapes, Moor Mother delivers a powerful and thought provoking performance. Standing at the front of the stage, she fervently echoed the mantra “WE ARE STANDING ON GRAVES,” echoing a similar plea from the SummerStage public announcer before the show to honor the native lands and burial grounds our cities are built upon. Moor Mother is currently putting out and featured on some of the most cutting edge music, much of which is available on her BandCamp page.
Moor Mother at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photo by Buscar Photo
Fielded took the stage next and delivered a short set of lighter pop tunes. The three-piece band provided a bit of change of pace for the night, but sandwiched between the high energy and cerebral performances of Moor Mother and Armand Hammer, Fielded soothed the crowd and allowed the evening to take on a different atmosphere as the sun was setting. The singer from Fielded would also later make an appearance to provide vocals on a song for Armand Hammer.
Fielded at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photos by Buscar Photo
Armand Hammer is the collaborative project of underground rappers Billy Woods and Elucid. The duo occupy a really specific sub-genre within the rap umbrella. Cerebral and relenting lyrical flow is delivered over more minimal but psychedelic beat patterns laced with horns and ambient loops. The instrumentals here serve more of a mood-setting purpose while the lyricists engage in a “stream of consciousness” rap style.

Elucid of Armand Hammer at SummerStage 8/15/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

Making their LP debut in 2013 with Race Music, the group hit a major stride with 2018’s Paraffin. Hailed as an underground rap opus, this LP brought the duo’s unique style to the forefront and began inspiring a wave of new rappers in the genre. With their latest release Haram, Armand Hammer is joined by heavyweight producer The Alchemist. His inclusion is apparent right at the start of the record, delivering a dark and hypnotic beat on “Sir Benni Miles” to set the mood of the record straight away. Haram explores, in startling detail, the wounds and fear still experienced by African Americans today as a result of colonial slavery and oppression in America. This fear is embedded in the lyrics and instrumentals across the 40-minute runtime of the record.

The group love sharing the stage with their peers, allowing fellow rap duo Shrapknel on stage to perform a couple of their songs. The whole night was a showcase of the exciting artists on Backwoodz Studios, all the artists who performed tonight have releases on the label.

Billy Woods of Armand Hammer at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

Concerts right now are nothing short of a spiritual experience. After 18 months of isolation and fear due to the pandemic, being at a concert today is both daring but rewarding. Getting back to the enjoyment of a concert while being safe and cognizant of what is still going on is incredibly important at this time. Artists on stage are acutely aware of this, and seeing these artists take the stage again after all this time you can’t help but feel the energy emanating from them. After a couple of songs, Elucid was so caught up in the performance he desperately pleaded to the sound engineers, “I need more volume up here man, this is a physical experience right now,” a sentiment that was on clear display amongst the audience.

The Alchemist at SummerStage, 8/15/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

Next up for Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage is a very special benefit show with Common this coming Sunday, August 22nd. The show is supported by exciting hip hop artist Rapsody. We will be there – make sure to check back for a photo gallery and review of that show. All upcoming SummerStage shows will require proof of vaccination along with a government issued ID to gain entry. Make sure to check the individual requirements of any show you plan on attending as vaccine and testing requirements begin to take shape.
August 20, 2021
Dave Matthews Band Rains Groove on Onondaga Lake

Dave Matthews Band performed in Syracuse, NY at the St Joseph’s Amphitheater on Wednesday, August 18 on the shores of Onondaga Lake. This marks the band’s third show at the Amp. Dave Matthews Band performed at the old Sky Chief Stadium in 2009 that included special guest Sam Kininger. Dave Matthews performed solo for the Dalai Lama at the Carrier Dome in 2012.

photo by Josh Davis

The rain-soaked masses came out for all occasions to the shores of Onondaga Lake to celebrate live music. It comes as fast as it passes through, so why fear the rain? The band responded with a 23-song set list mixed with old and new material from their catalog.

photo by Josh Davis

“Come and relax now leave your troubles down no need to bear the weight of your worries here let them all fall away.” For the first time in thirteen years, they opened the show with “Pantala Naga Pampa” -> “Rapunzel” that also appropriately starts the Before These Crowded Streets record. Thirteen years from this August 19 also marks the day Leroi Moore gave up his ghost as founding member on saxophone for the band.

The heavy rains commanded the band’s attention on stage. The crowd, as well, who started a “JTR” chant that helped changed the set list to oblige the rain dance request. The lyrics resonated off the stage through the sky, Rain, rain, Rain down on me Again And again, Rain down on me... Some thunder did come off the bandstand from Carter Beauford’s floor Tom drums during the JTR jam.

photo by Josh Davis

Do You Remember all of the Summer Tours this band has consistently put on with last year being its only break? Tim Reynolds was eager to play his electric guitar this tour. He shines during “Crush” and “You Might Die Trying.” His notes are both fueling off the horn section for full crescendo endings.

Dave Matthews debuts a song played for just the second time named “The Only Thing.” The jam includes Buddy and Tim jiving back and forth on funk. The new lyrics hit home in the crowd. I just want some kind of love I know cause I feel it, It’s a lonely world you’re living in. I just want love. more love. Lord knows I need it. It’s the only thing…

photo by Josh Davis

For those in the crowd battling a love they can’t break free from the band drops a raucous “Can’t Stop” The song started on Summer tour of 2006 and has grown to their most recent studio album. Dave’s words on this track clearly show the yearning that hopefully fades So hungry, you make me, I surrender… I’m hurting like a junkie for you. The outro chorus screams Free the Beast inside of me.

“You and Me,” a song written in Lake George, NY was played for the 375th time. The band also busted out “Captain” for the first time since Madison Square Garden In 2018.The “Jimi Thing” mash up jam featured covers by Huey Lewis and the News’ “I Want a New Drug” and Prince’s “Sexy Motherfucker.” Keyboardist Buddy Strong really stepped out vocally with Rashawn Ross on this while howling on that B3 Hammond organ. Its a damn shame to lose your way running wild. The band then went heavy with “Louisiana Bayou” and “Grey Street” to end the performance.

photo by Josh Davis

During the encore, two riders were approaching and the wind began to howl. The band played off the rainy night’s elements again for their finale. Stefan Lessard’s chilling bass intro to DMB’s take on Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower” was beyond appropriate to end the night. This version also features a tribute to Led Zeppelin during the finale as Dave belts out the infamous final verse to “Stairway to Heaven” before ending ”Watchtower.” No reason to get excited…

Dave Matthews performed solo at a Stephen Talkhouse in the Hampton’s on Thursday evening. The band visits New York for shows in Saratoga Springs and Jones Beach in September. In November they return to the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden.

Dave Matthews Band – St Joseph’s Amphitheater, Syracuse NY – August 18, 2021

Setlist: Pantala Naga Pampa->Rapunzel, Funny the Way It Is, JTR, So Much to Say->Too Much, Squirm, Do You Remember, Crush, The Only Thing, You Might Die Trying, You and Me, Can’t Stop, Dancing Nancies, Warehouse, Captain, Jimi Thing I Want a New Drug (Huey Lewis & The News cover) Sexy M.F. (Prince cover) Louisiana Bayou, Grey Street

Encore: All Along the Watchtower (Bob Dylan cover with Led Zeppelin Verse)

August 20, 2021
In Focus: Lindsey Stirling at SPAC
On August 16, 2021, Lindsey Stirling graced Saratoga Performing Arts Center with an incredible performance. From daredevil aerial spinning to intricate choreography, her show is one for the ages. Sterling said during her set that she always imagined herself becoming what she is today, a badass playing violin and dancing to dubstep, wearing the most fantastical costumes.

Photo by Zach Culver

Lindsey’s Artemis Tour, named after her latest album release, is just as outrageously out of this world as any of her work. Every few songs a video would come up on the massive LED screen behind her playing a fable of sorts, usually incredibly strong and uplifting, inner beauty and strength being a key point in all her messages. She dives deep into each genre of… well, everything she gets into. Her music ranges from heavy dubstep to classical and back to pop, and her stage performances always have incredible themes.

Artemis is very much an album based in ancient fantasy. The videos between songs showed Lindsey Stirling in full costume in the middle of the woods, bow in hand, among her clan of pre/post-apocalyptic hunters. As she dove into her other albums, her costumes and themes changed with them. A Choose Your Own Pirate Adventure got the crowd cheering as the fair maiden and her crew acted out insanely hilarious and amazing choreography.

The Artemis Tour takes Lindsey out west for a handful of shows before a five-month hiatus. In late February 2022, she begins her World Tour of the same name beginning in Sydney, Australia and ending in Kiev, Ukraine.

Setlist: Artemis, Til the Lights Goes Out, Darkside, Shatter Me, Masquerade, Master of Tides, Love Goes On and On, Crystallize, Married Life > Once Upon a Dream > A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes / You’ve Got a Friend in Me, Between Twilight, Sleepwalking, The Arena / Underground, Roundtable Rival / Don’t Let This Feeling Fade, First Light, Mirage
August 19, 2021
Hall and Oates are “Back Together Again” at SPAC
Rescheduled from 2020, Daryl Hall and John Oates had been waiting to get their tour on the road for almost as long as we’ve been waiting to see them again. On Sunday, August 15th, they arrived with some 13,000 fans at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, one of the biggest crowds this venue has seen in some time. English band Squeeze opened the show.

Photo by Zach Culver

The duo came out, clad in their best rocker gear, followed by their band. Starting out with the classic “Maneater” the crowd was in from the start. They ripped through a few of their oldies before Daryl moved over to his grand piano for “Sara’s Smile.” After tearing up the crowd’s heartstrings he moved back over to center stage with his counter-part. The whole band came in strong for “Back Together Again,” surely being a very meaningful track for them after this past year.

30 minutes before their slotted end time they left the stage, leaving the crowd hungry for more. Little did they know what they were in for. Hall and Oates came back on stage for a four song encore, starting with “Rich Girl” and flowing into “Kiss on My List,” “Private Eyes,” and lastly, “You Make My Dreams.”

The duo headed west after Saratoga and the next time they will be near New York State will be September 18th at the Merriweather Pavilion in Columbia, MD and Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, CT to close their tour on December 3rd and 4th.

Setlist: Maneater, Out Of Touch, Method of Modern Love, Say It Isn’t So, You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ (Barry Mann cover), She’s Gone, Sara Smile, Is It a Star, Back Together Again, I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do),

Encore: Rich Girl, Kiss On My List, Private Eyes, You Make My Dreams
August 18, 2021
Billy Joel Dazzles Buffalo at Highmark Stadium
Billy Joel performed at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Saturday, August 14 for his rescheduled 2020 date, with thousands of fans packing the Buffalo Bills stadium in a highly anticipated event that marked the return of concerts at the venue since the pandemic began.

This was the first full capacity event to happen at Highmark Stadium, and the fans were really enjoying it. From tailgating out in the lots, to everyone together in the stadium the atmosphere was nothing short of electrifying.

The rules in place were well respected to give the best and safe experience as possible. Masks were required by all fans and staff when inside of the stadium concourses or in the bathroom.

Shortly after 8:30pm the stadium filled in as eager fans waited for the Piano Man to take the stage. The piano sat front and center in plain sight looking immaculate as anticipation grew for the performance to start. Fans were up front holding an assortment of different signs expressing their love and gratitude to Billy Joel, one woman even holding a sign saying how she named her child after him.

With an eruption of applause and cheers Billy Joel took the stage, giving a brief wave and smile to the crowd before taking his seat at the piano. Immediately he opened up with “Movin’ Out’ setting the crowd off into cheers. Billy Joel transitioned his songs flawlessly as one would expect from the lifetime of experience of performing music. Billy Joel performed “Miami 2017” and then “Pressure” before addressing the crowd with a “Hello Buffalo!”

While being considered one of the greatest musicians of all time, Billy Joel also brings with him a fun and witty sense of humor. This was showcased when he informed the crowd of the origins of Buffalo’s name, stating it was too difficult of a French word to pronounce, so it ended up being “Buffalo”

Billy Joel went on to perform an electrifying 24 song set that seemed to go way too quickly. Joel is known for bringing other musicians on stage with him, and it was no different for Buffalo. Introducing John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls, a Buffalo native, they performed the bands hit “Iris” This was very well received by fans as everyone in the stadium was singing along, as Rzeznik looked like he was having the time of his life.

The set consisted of many of Billy Joels top hits including “New York State of Mind”, “Allentown”, “She’s Always a Woman”, “Scenes From an Italian Restaurant” and of course to end the set was “Piano Man”. But Billy Joel wasn’t finished yet – coming back for a five song encore of “We Didn’t Start the Fire”, “Uptown Girl”, “It’s Still Rock and Roll to me”, “Big Shot”, and “You May Be Right” to finish the night off.

Billy Joel gave a masterclass in live performance in Buffalo, and he shows no sign of slowing down. He truly is one of the greatest performers of all time, and demonstrated that with the combination of a beautiful production and his ability to command the crowd with his presence.

Setlist: Movin’ Out(Anthony’s Song), Miami 2017(Seen the Lights Go out on Broadway), Pressure, Summer, Highland Falls, The Entertainer, Vienna, Zanzibar, New York State of Mind, Don’t Ask Me Why, Iris(Goo Goo Dolls cover with John Rzeznik), Allentown, My Life, She’s Always a Woman, Sometimes a Fantasy, The River of Dreams (With “Tush” by ZZ Top interlude), Only the Good Die Yound, Nessun dorma (Giacomo Puccini cover with Mike DelGuidice) Scenes From an Italian Restaurant, Piano Man

Encore:We Didn’t Start the Fire, Uptown Girl, It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me, Big Shot, You May Be Right
August 18, 2021
Modest Mouse Parade Discography, ‘The golden Casket,’ Over Four Nights In Brooklyn
Modest Mouse wrapped up a four night stay at Bushwick’s Brooklyn Steel on Saturday, August 14th in celebration of their seventh LP The Golden Casket. Providing a different setlist each night, Modest Mouse played a significant portion of the new record along with songs from their entire catalog.

Modest Mouse at Brooklyn Steel, 8/13/2021. Photo by Buscar Photo

The Golden Casket was released this past June, six years since the band’s previous record Strangers to Ourselves came out back in 2015. For nearly a quarter century, Modest Mouse have been making pop-infused indie rock and amassing a devout following. That was on clear display at Brooklyn Steel last week; arguably a smaller venue for the group, but four nights quickly sold out and the audience would have stayed there all night had they kept playing. Even after a 2 hour show with a 6-song encore, barely anyone left the floor until security began ushering the crowd out.

Isaac Brock of Modest Mouse. Photo by Buscar Photo

The new record draws on Modest Mouse’s signature sound, with a more psychedelic edge. Songs like “Leave a Light On” and “We’re Lucky” showcase shimmering guitar and horn loops while “Wooden Soldiers” and “The Sun Hasn’t Left” are reminiscent of Magical Mystery Tour era Beatles. These songs combined with quintessential Modest Mouse indie rock tunes and an artistic theme filled with rainbows and bright colors give The Golden Casket it’s own distinct place in the band’s discography.

Modest Mouse at Brooklyn Steel, 8/13/2021. Photo by Buscar Photo

The lengthy ‘MMXXI’ tour continues with a dense schedule all the way through the end of October. You can find the full list of dates and ticket links on the band’s website HERE. Check out the music video for The Golden Casket lead single, “We Are Between” as well as the full photo gallery from night 3 at Brooklyn Steel below.

As of Monday, August 16th, New York City is requiring proof of vaccination for most indoor activities including concerts, indoor dining and gyms. Depending on the show in question, negative COVID tests may be required in addition to vaccination. Make sure to check the policy of the show and venue in question. You can find Bowery Presents policies HERE.
August 17, 2021
In Focus: Zac Brown Band, “The Come Back Tour” at Bethel woods
Imagine if you will, the Zac Brown Band’s “The Come Back Tour” as a Phoenix rising from the depths of musical silence. The 2021 tour, running from August to October, incorporates a host of rotating special guests to help reinvigorate those who had fallen into the abyss of the last year. The stop at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Upstate New York featured Ashland Craft opening and Teddy Swims in the middle spot with Zac Brown Band headlining

Ashland, inducted into CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2021, took to the stage with an “it’s time to party and let’s get it going” demeanor. In shorts and knee-high boots, Craft and band reinforced the vibe with “I Smoke Weed” and the classic rocker “American Woman.”

Teddy Swims opened his set strutting from one end of the stage to the other, deviating from a pure country sound to one with rap induce lyrics. He is a performer who can traverse many musical paths. At mid set, Karl Michael joined Swims on stage. The two performed their just released single “Liar.” From this point on, Swims’ vocal power became apparent. Closing with the powerful and emotional anthem “Bed on Fire,” Teddy solidified why he is part of the tour.

The Zac Brown Band

The Zac Brown Band offered the packed house a two-hour night of music that reached well beyond country. Throughout the night, Brown introduced tunes from his upcoming album release The Owl, most notably “Same Boat.” Classics such as “As She’s Walking Away” and “Whatever It Is” were standouts to his extensive catalog and not left by the wayside.

Zac appears like a warrior onstage: big, bold, and defiant with his guitar strapped to his barrel chest, ready to take on anyone who would challenge him. Mid-way through the night, he stripped down to a microphone for “Colder Weather.” That song found Brown opening himself up to the audience as if to expose his vulnerabilities. The sold-out crowd reciprocated back with big love for this genuine gesture that found Brown tapping his hand over his heart in humble appreciation.

To be clear, this is The Zac Brown Band and not Zac Brown supported by a group of musicians. Members of the band, affectionally called (musical) ninjas by Zac, stepped up front and center throughout the night sharing their musical abilities.

This was not a night devoted solely to country. Not at all. The set included the Beatles “Blackbird,” Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” (performed with Teddy Swims), Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” to name a few, offering something for everyone and acknowledging the bands apperception for good music, no matter the groove. The encore proved entertaining starting with an eight-song medley (Black Betty / I Want You to Want Me / Two Tickets to Paradise / La Bamba / Come Together/ Jump Around / Love in an Elevator / What’s Up), followed by Elton John’s “Rocket Man.” Of course, no Zac Brown Band show could end without “Chicken Fried” filling the hall to take everyone home. At the end of a hot night on the hollowed grounds of Bethel Woods, the musical horizon was once again ablaze with music, sweet music.

Zac Brown Band
Teddy Swims
Ashland Craft
August 17, 2021
The Districts return to NYC for four nights at brooklyn Steel
The Districts wrapped up a four night run at Brooklyn Steel Saturday August 14th in support of Modest Mouse’s MMXXI Tour. We were there for night three; you can see the full photo gallery below.

The Districts at Brooklyn Steel, 8/13/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

For so many bands today, these tours mark the return to the stage after nearly a year and a half pause due to the pandemic. Vaccine and testing requirements are constantly changing, but while this remains in flux, these early concerts have shown that both the fans and artists are eager to get back on tour. Brooklyn Steel was nearly at capacity for The Districts’ opening sets, drawing their own fans out early who were more than ready to get back to live music.

The Districts at Brooklyn Steel, 8/13/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

The Districts released their fourth LP ‘You Know I’m Not Going Anywhere’ back in March 2020, right before COVID-19 would cause mass lockdowns around the world and in the US. These shows, more than 500 days later, are the first time the band has been able to perform the new songs live since their 2020 tour was cut short. Even with the hiatus, the band performed a tight set and did not show any sign of rust.

The Districts at Brooklyn Steel, 8/13/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

The band’s last pre-COVID show ironically was a hometown gig at Union Transfer in Philadelphia. The tour has the band making their return to Philadelphia in December for a show at The Fillmore with Dr. Dog. Check out all of their upcoming tour dates HERE.

As of this week in NYC, proof of vaccination will be required for most shows, including all of Bowery Presents’ venues. Visit their site for more information on acceptable proof of vaccination and individual venue policies.
August 16, 2021