Category: Genres

Infidelity Makes Sweet Sounds on debut from Lisa St. Lou, “Ain’t No Good Man”

Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” TLC’s “Creep” and Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.” The Eagles’ “Lyin’ Eyes,” Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” and, of course, Hank Williams’ “Your Cheatin’ Heart.”

Infidelity is torture on the soul of the victim. But it is also a potent catalyst for great artistic output, especially for musicians. It’s the brand of misfortune that inspired classic songs like the above. It also birthed a bevy of legendary albums, from Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours to Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks to Beyonce’s Lemonade – works which pushed these artists to creative apexes they may never match.

Singer/songwriter Lisa St. Lou with debut album, Ain’t No Good Man, is another powerful product of a ‘done me wrong.’ It’s a blues-powered blast of 13 soulful originals, tunes that travel the road from betrayal and broken heart to redemption and, seemingly, a new love. They are expertly performed by Lisa St. Lou and an all-star crew including New Orleans greats Irma Thomas, Cyril, Ivan and Ian Neville, axe man Walter “Wolfman” Washington and many more.

Brooklynite St. Lou’s style is anchored in the gospel she absorbed as a child at a Baptist church in her native south St. Louis. Her childhood love of singing led her to serious musical study. Lisa earned a Masters in Opera (!) before heading to New York City and rapid success with a role in the Broadway production of The Producers. But an entertainer’s lifestyle didn’t jibe with her new husband’s vision of their future, so she quit showbiz and had two kids. Her partner’s repeated infidelities over the following decade led her to the most important decision of her life – leaving him in an effort to reclaim her voice, metaphorically and now literally.

St. Lou has had the good fortune of partnering with Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter Tor Hyams (Joan Osborne, Lou Rawls) for her debut. And while she sites Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin and Nina Simone as inspirations, I hear another soulful St. Louis white girl wailer evident in her style – Bonnie Bramlett of Delaney and Bonnie fame.

St. Lou and Hyams have co-written 12 top-flight tunes. They are all in a bluesy vein but with an original bend, not a very easy thing to do with such a well tread genre. Recorded at Parlor Studios in New Orleans, the tunes all naturally have a swampy, steamy, Big Easy groove. There’s also plenty of Memphis in the horns and Stax-like guitar licks and Chicago-flavored gospel in the ever-present Hammond organ swirl and churchy background vocals.

The album kicks off with the title track. Here Lisa puts her operatic pipes and gospel grit to good use. She sings high and hard to romantically nihilistic lyrics like:

I’m hip to the game
They’re always the same
I can smell a rat from a mile away
Ain’t no good man
Who gon’ be lovin’ me, anytime soon
Ain’t no good man,
Who can fool me twice, by giving me the moon

“Girl Get On” warns the “other” woman to stay away from her man, set to an up tempo groove with plenty of lyrical double entendre. “Love Me Baby” is a plea that starts with fingers snaps, a four note bass riff and solo voice, before breaking into a shuffling blues with some great call-and-response with the chorus.

On one of the album’s showstoppers, “Nothing Is Never Enough (For A Man),” St. Lou is joined by the immortal Irma Thomas. The NOLA soul queen who throws down her signature stanky vocals on a slow blues with some sweet guitar licks and punchy lines like:

You give your body, you give your soul
You give up on every fight
Don’t wanna get out of bed in the morning
Cause nothing, nothing, nothing is ever right
Nothing is ever enough, for a man
Nothing is ever enough, for a man
Don’t matter how hard you tried or if you’re doing the best that you can
Nothing is ever enough, for a man

The Meters’ founder Cyril Neville shares the vocals on “Whatcha Gonna Do.” This is true New Orleans funky with all the trimmings, wah wah guitar (or clavinet), more call-and-response vox and a jerky stop-time beat.

While St. Lou’s go-to style is up tempo, my favorite tunes here are the ballads. “Miracle in Motion” is an achingly slow love song, a gospel-flavored offering with no lyrical axe to grind. There’s some nice rhythmic changes and modulations, luscious horn and keyboard support, which make this seemingly straight forward ballad something more.

My favorite on the album, “Flowers In the Rain,” closes the collection on the kind of hopeful note we wish for all wronged in love. The arrangement is pure gospel, largely just piano and voice at first, like a sketch or a demo. Lisa and her throaty angelic background singers build the song, along with a churchy, bluesy organ that surges and dances around the melody. This is a real could-be classic.

You gave me hope through the storm
When it was cold you kept me warm
You took away the pain
You gave me flowers in the rain
I never met a man who could look in my eyes
And see all the beauty inside
And the sound of your voice
It takes all the worry away
You opened up my heart
You picked me up when I fell apart
When my whole world went insane
You gave me flowers in the rain

St. Lou’s Ain’t No Good Man is a musical journey through Kubler-Ross’s famous five stages of loss, with plenty of anger at first, ending with acceptance. It boasts some wonderful songs and topflight performances from all involved. It’s good musical medicine – a shot of gospel goodness that can help the brokenhearted exorcise their rightful anger and move on down the road.

It’s also refreshing to see a debut disc come our way from a 40-something with something to say, rather than a pre-fab teen product spit out by the pop machine. In music, as in life, Lisa shows that it’s better late than never.

Lisa’s website provides some cool video clips of the recording of the album and discussions of the development of the songs and the arrangements. Check it out here and find all links to all platforms here.

Key Tracks: Whatcha Gonna Do, Nothing Is Never Enough (For A Man), Flowers In the Rain

March 10, 2021
Madison VanDenburg kicks off Music in Motion Season 2 this Friday

On Friday, March 12, Madison VanDenburg will kick off NYS Music in Motion Season 2, when she sits down with our host, rocker Frank Palangi.

Sponsored by Helping Friendly Salve, the series brings together seasoned musicians who hail from the Empire State or have made New York their home, alongside Palangi, a Warren County native.

Guests for Season 2 of NYS Music in Motion include American Idol’s Madison VanDenburg, Scott Hannay, The Voice’s Moriah Formica, Donny Frauenhofer, Sirsy and Lowell Wurster.

Tune in starting on Friday, March 12 and every other Friday for each installment of Music in Motion on the NYS Music YouTube, IGTV and Facebook page. New for Season 2, you can catch all episodes on the JamCast Network.

Palangi will have a sit down conversation with each artist, with a first season lineup that includes the following musicians from across New York. A homegrown indie rock recording artist, singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Palangi fuels his positive ambition naturally by serving up a feeding frenzy of edge heavy guitars, with a side of deep, gritty vocals. With a no-quit mentality, Palangi draws on influences from 80s & 90s rock, including post-grunge and heavy metal.

NYS Music in Motion Season 2 Schedule

March 12 – Madison VanDenburg
March 26 – Scott Hannay
April 9 – Moriah Formica
April 23 – Donny Frauenhofer
May 7 – Sirsy
May 21 – Lowell Wurster

March 10, 2021
Flushing Town Hall announce their Jazz-packed tribute for Women’s History Month

Flushing Town Hall has announced their Jazz-packed tribute for Women’s History Month. The tribute will take place on March 26, 2021 7PM EST and is being called “Songbirds,” a virtual tribute to Minnie Riperton, Shirley Horn, and Joni Mitchell by the Mala Waldron Quartet.

Flushing Town Hall is known particularly for its long history of presenting strong jazz programming. It has been able to expand its audience across the globe through virtual programming since the COVID-19 pandemic closed its doors one year ago, like most music venues around the world. Although audiences are still not permitted into the venue, local performers are now slowly being able to return to the stage for live-streamed performances. The cultural nonprofit also has increased its collaboration with other performance venues to bring additional programming to its fans.

The Mala Waldron Quartet features Mala Waldron who is a pianist and vocalist who has a unique technical alacrity and sensitivity that isn’t widely known. She is the daughter of Jazz Icon Mal Waldron. She has performed all over the world at prestigious music festivals including in Belgium, Russia, Belarus & China, Taiwan and Malaysia. Waldron has performed on some of NYC’s most prestigious stages, including the Iridium Jazz Club, the Blue Note, and the Jazz Standard, and at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage. The rest of the quartet is made up of Steve Salerno on guitar, Michael T.A. Thompson on drums and Gene Torres and bass. They will perform “Songbirds”—a beautiful journey into a not-so-distant past made popular by Minnie Riperton, Shirley Horn and Joni Mitchell. It will be filled with memorable music and songs.

The concert will be performed at Flushing Town Hall’s theatre and will be streamed live for audiences at home in celebration of Women’s History Month. It will be available on the Flushing Town Hall’s YouTube channel. This performance is ticketed performance and requires a prior purchase of $5.00, plus a $1.00 convenience fee to view the performance online. Audience members can submit questions at any time during the performance for a live Q&A which will be moderated by Flushing Town Hall’s Jazz Producer Clyde Bullard after the show.

For more information on Flushing Town Hall tribute to Women’s History Month visit their website.

March 10, 2021
Arsun Shares Visuals For “Southern Winds” and Launches T-Shirt Collab

New York indie rocker Arsun has released a new music video for his song “Southern Winds,” premiering on i-D, alongside an exclusive interview.

The music of Arsun is influenced by the art-rock of the late 60’s and 70’s, with heavy influence from Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground. The music video for “Southern Winds” is directed by Arsun’s girlfriend, Tasmin Meyer Erahin, makes special use of black and white, intentional video artifacting, and a four way split camera perspective. Shot on a vintage Super 8, the video was not initially meant for a music video – just the couple causally videoing their tropical getaway. Nature is a key fixture of the video, strolling through idyllic beach vistas and gorgeous ocean’s to match the serene mood of the music.

The new track comes packed with a catchy, retro instrumental line, as Arsun’s gritty vocals take the lead
Indie88

Arsun released “Southern Winds” with Dover Street Market as part of their Art Book Fair programming. Dover Street Market is multi-brand relator that collaborates with several of its closest associates to release a series of virtual events. Arsun’s collaboration with Dover Street Market also includes a new t-shirt designed in conjunction with visual artist Tom Sachs.

The t-shirts are up for purchase on DSM New York E-Shop.

March 9, 2021
Afro-Cuban Musician Bobi Céspedes Releases New Album “Mujer y Cantante”

Cuban singer Bobi Céspedes releases her new studio album Mujer y Cantante in celebration of her 40-year career and experience.

Bobi Céspedes represents and promotes Cuban music from the Bay Area in California. She specializes in Cuban son and is a composer, bandleader, and educator. She fronted the band Conjunto Céspedes creating unique music staying true to her roots. Her music fuses Cuban folklore and modern sounds. In the 90s her work with Conjunto Céspedes was notorious in the local music scene and internationally. She took a break from the band and toured with Mickey Hart of Grateful Dead and played the drums on his album Supralingua.

Throughout the past few years, Céspedes performed at several events and been a part of powerful lineups. She performed for the launch of the Smithsonian’s Museum of African American History and Culture at the “Freedom Sounds Celebration” along with international legends Angelique Kidjo and Meshell Ndegeocello. Her music has been used in some television series and was a part of soundtracks for a few movies as well.

Céspedes tribute to Celia Cruz in 2016 started a connection between her and SFJazz. She performed another tribute for Celia Cruz in 2019 and her band was a part of their series “Fridays at Five” and the performance was released on Oct. 2, 2020. Last year after the pandemic began, she appeared on the Kennedy Center’s “Couch Concert Series.”

Mujer y Cantante, which translates to “Woman and Singer” is her latest release. It was initially released in June 2020 but has recently been officially introduced to the public. The album is personal, consisting of eight songs inspired by her family, upbringing, culture, spirituality and experience. Her sound returns to her Afro-Cuban roots and is led by Cuban son. The messages are drawn from the Yoruba-Lucimi traditions she practices and, prays to the Orishas to bring strength and guidance during these times. During the initial release, the pandemic and Black Lives Matter protests were taking place and she wanted the album to be uplifting.

The rest of Conjunto Céspedes worked with her on Mujer y Cantante as well. It was co-produced by the Latin Grammy Award-winning producer, Kenya Autie and mixed as well as mastered by Grammy Award-winning engineer, Oscar Autie. Céspedes takes another step in her acclaimed 40-year career with her newest work.

March 9, 2021
Grateful Dead Return to the Garden: March 9, 1981

Few buildings have as storied a relationship with the Grateful Dead that Madison Square Garden does. The World’s Most Famous Arena quickly became the band’s “home” arena on the East Coast beginning with their first run here in January of 1979. Their welcomed stay would last until their final shows played there in 1994. Today, we celebrate the anniversary of the Grateful Dead’s third run at the Garden and only their sixth show ever here. This would be the first of only two Dead shows here this year. But its musical impact, thanks to an incredibly well preserved AUD recording, will last forever.

The opening tones of “Feel Like A Stranger” ring throughout the Garden to kickstart things this evening. The electricity immediately comes through the pristine recording on this one as the bands “get’s on with the show.” Guitarist Bob Weir’s voice is in fine form for the opener and throughout the rest of this show. Some typical brief, scat-like improv singing from him gives way to a short but tight little opening number. “Althea” then follows, with fellow guitarist Jerry Garcia getting his turn to serenade the New York faithful. A fierce early guitar lick sets just the right tone early as Garcia nimbly moves from singing to soloing and then back.

This is followed by a super-bluesy “C.C. Rider” that’s fueled by some great interplay between Garcia, Weir and Mydland on keys. A raucous Garden crowd makes their feelings well known afterwards. An extended tuning break might disrupt the rhythm for any other concert, but it’s not long before the arena is back in full sway and singing along with Garcia to “Ramble On Rose.” As expected, the “Just like New York City” line is met with resounding approval. Weir seems to begin “El Paso” by himself at first, but the band soon catches up and nails the rest of this first set staple. This one sees more impressively delicate guitar fills thrown in by Garcia who sounds clean and inspired from the onset this evening.

A return to the blues then follows, this one of the “Deep Elem” variety. After being taken off the shelf late last year in October, the vocal sections still sound a little unsure on the Dead’s take of this blues standard but the continual passionate guitar stylings from Garcia more than makes up for it. There’s nothing unsure about Weir’s vocal delivery on “Beat It On Down The Line” as the band rips through another first set staple.

Jerry’s vocals seem to run out of steam somewhat in the “Bird Song” that comes next. But the initial lackluster vocal section quickly gives way to some dazzling improv in the jam that follows with Garcia’s guitar leading the way. This seems to infuse some life into the band and the song’s dismount is much cleaner. Weir then re-assumes command and “New Minglewood Blues” closes out a rollicking opening stanza. Whether it was planned or not, the two guitarists wind up going tit-for-tat and alternate lead vocal duties between each song in the opening set.

But like any Dead show, the real “meat and potatoes” of the show are generally found in the second set. Tonight’s show at the Garden would be no different. After some clearly audible teases while tuning, the band takes their sweet time before launching into a majestic set-opening “China Cat Sunflower.” Garcia’s meandering guitar solos play perfectly atop a bed of fresh bass rhythms supplied by Phil Lesh. The slowly building jam eventually makes its seamless transition into “I Know You Rider” where both Weir and Garcia throw a little extra mustard on their respective parts. The second “China Cat” > “Rider” sequence ever played at MSG is certainly one to behold.

Out of the ashes of this blistering start comes “Samson and Delilah” with drummers Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart wasting no time at all before launching into the percussive into. The accompanying jam is played at a near-frenetic pace that seems to have carried right over from the start of the set. Things finally cool down for a bit with “Ship Of Fools” that Garcia ably leads the group through with no issues. Even a slower number like this one seems to have the Grateful Dead Garden crowd enraptured.

Things perk back up in a big way in the second set with the two heavy hitters that follow. “Estimated Prophet” sees a fired up Weir complemented beautifully by Mydland and the signature tone of his electric keys on this number. A typically patient and slow-building jam then ensues with Jerry soon beginning to take the helm musically. When this reaches its conclusion, he switches tones and starts the opening chords to “Uncle John’s Band.” The Garden is again enthralled by these proceedings, with many clapping along in time.

Towards the end of the second’s set traditional “Drums” > “Space” section, some familiar chording can be heard. And before long, Lesh’s bellowing bass roars once again, signaling the high-intensity start of “The Other One.” The rest of the band follows Weir’s lead on vocals with this passionate take on a classic Dead number.

After this powerful, but fairly short “Other One,” begins to peter out, Garcia slows things down once more and the beginning of “Stella Blue” ensues. A large crowd that was in full rock mode, clapping along wildly just more than an hour ago, is now in near total silence listening to Jerry’s deliberate and soulful vocals – a testament to the emotional power of a Grateful Dead Garden show.

It sounds like Jerry wants to revisit and possibly finish “Uncle John’s Band” at the end of “Blue,” but they instead shift towards a “Good Lovin’” closer, the second set’s only cover song. The Garden crowd, once more, shows their love and appreciation afterwards before a “U.S. Blues” finishes things out, a proper call after so much blues-inspired songs and playing this evening. The Dead would go on to play one more show at MSG the following night. And thanks to the impeccable recording by Barry Glassberg below, we’ll be able to enjoy this one forever.

Grateful Dead – Madison Square Garden – New York City, NY 3/9/81

Set 1: Feel Like A Stranger, Althea-> CC Rider, Ramble On Rose-> El Paso, Deep Elem Blues, Beat It On Down The Line, Bird Song, Minglewood Blues

Set 2: China Cat Sunflower-> I Know You Rider-> Samson & Delilah, Ship of Fools, Estimated Prophet-> Uncle John’s Band-> Drums-> The Other One-> Stella Blue-> Good Lovin’,

Encore: U.S. Blues

March 9, 2021
Hearing Aide: Alan Evans “Let it Ride”

In the early part of the decade Alan Evans had been playing with his band Soulive and every other big name in music. In 2004 he had the notion to collaborate with some of his closest friends to put out his first solo album. Let It Ride was only released on CD in Japan, but now 17 years later Alan Evans’ 2005 album has been released to all on February 26, 2021 by Vintage League Music. The record features bonus tracks and a snippet of Alan live in Upstate New York from 2005 with some of the cast.

He recruited some of the best names of the modern funk soul scene to help him record it. Neal Evans, Sam Kininger, Aaron Bellamy, Nikki Glaspie, Mike Feingold, Ruslan Sirota, Cochemea Gastelum, Atticus Cole, Amee Jana and Skip Jennings. The music was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Evans at his Iron Wax Studios.

The album features Alan locked in with bass player Aaron Bellamy for every track to hold down the bottom end. All the right personnel start the groove on “Do It Again” where Evans channels his inner James Brown shot calling “ Only Way to Do It, Is to Do it, So hit me Sam!!” that drops an iconic Kininger saxophone solo to get your head wrapped on the familiar funk these cats bring. “Can you feel this sound?” Evans vocals ask the same question “Auhhhh, are you with me?” for the appropriately named track “Are You With Me?” that also features Sam K on Saxophone. Answer most given, “Right on, Right on, Right On!”

Sam Kininger, Alan Evans, Aaron Bellamy at Electric Company in Utica

To exit with the heavy funk, Evans gets his brushes out on ‘Welcome To The World’ where his vocals on this tune sound as soft as Hendrix on 1983… (a Merman I Should Turn to Be). Saxophonist Cochemea Gastelum helps set a worldly tone through the orbits on “Low Down Low.” To help come full circle on the recording Nikki Glaspie, Amee Jana and Skip Jennings lend their profound voices over the backing groove that kicks the record off on the “Do It Again Outro.”

In light of his Upstate New York roots, Alan chose to release along with Let it Ride, the second half of a live album from Saratoga Springs on February 5, 2005 at Skidmore College. Saratoga native and former band mate Peter Prince encouraged this particular set, which encapsulates the whole mood of this release – Alan leading the improvisational pack with Aaron Bellamy on bass, Mike Feingold and Jeffery Lockhart on guitar. They stretch out on the live bonus tracks in front of the crowd many Februaries ago that even features a Jimi Hendrix mash up of “Purple Haze” and “Third Stone from the Sun” on the final track. We should be glad Alan Evans and company decided to “Do It Again” this year for the release of this funked up record.

Key Tracks: Do It Again, Are You with Me?, Welcome to the World

Purchase the Album here and look for our interview with Alan later this week.

March 8, 2021
Wu Tang Clan To Issue Extremely Limited Photobook

The lives and times of the Wu Tang Clan has been chronicled heavily (deservedly so) throughout their existence. Beginning with their own personal accounts in their music, to feature interviews, documentaries, tv series and now, an exclusive Wu Tang Clan photobook will share rare and never seen before images of the rap phenoms. With photography from the likes of; Danny Hastings, PROTIM PHOTO, Kyle Christie and Andy Cantillon, as well as friends and family of the Clan.

Titled Wu Tang Clan: LEGACY, this large format photography book features more than 300 pages of images and comes encased in a 400-pound sculpted chamber.

“From conception to the present day, this is the story of the undisputed greatest hip-hop group of all time being unveiled through rare and never before seen photos,” said John “Mook” Gibbons, CEO of Wu-Tang Clan Management, in an official statement.

According to the book’s official website, only 36 editions will be made available for purchase, and each comes signed, dated and numbered and with a certificate of authenticity.

Each book will be printed and bound in Italian leather and will come encased in a bronze-encrusted black steel chamber individually designed by sculptor Gethin Jones. The design was inspired by the bronze ritual bowls from the Zhou Dynasty, an ancient period considered the pinnacle of Chinese bronzeware crafting, and its first ruler was King Wu-Wang. This comes as no surprise as the Clan’s music — specifically RZA’s production – was heavily influenced by Asian martial arts, beliefs and overall culture. Even the 36 copies being produced serves as an ode to their first album tittle (36 Chambers) and the numerological significance of there being 36 chambers in a Shaolin Temple.

For more information on how to purchase and own what is sure to be a rare collector’s item, click here.

March 8, 2021
Hearing Aide: No Showers On Vacation ‘Aquaband’

No Showers On Vacation sounds about right. Now, wouldn’t that make you stink? Well, yeah of course. It is fitting then that this Burlington group’s funk is so strong it can kill a hippo. And jokes aside, this Phish-inspired group really does know how to bring their A-game while keeping things fun and exploratory.

Processed with VSCO with l6 preset

This second pandemic release, AQUABAND, is true to the group’s sound and intentions. The album is terrifically produced and the compositions are very well organized considering this is a group that releases material at a good rate. Sam Lyons (drums), Emmett Lurssen (guitar), Alden Nichols (keyboards), and Pat Maley (sax) form a very good jam group. It is worth noting that this is only their second release, after debut EP Bath Time: Miami. Spoiler alert: this album is well worth your time.

The first track, “Chestnut” features a rambling but consistent piano riff that leaves room for a ton of various solos. The eccentric beat forms itself into a Santana type jam, while a dirty guitar solo paves the way back to the piano riff. There is nothing missing here, aside from more sax (and even then, you better hold onto your hats cause this album just started). Throughout the beginning, the listener sees the piano taking center stage.

The keys introduce a lot of the themes of the song and bring in the rest of the band. The bass divides the chord structure, navigating its way around the low end with a steady groove. The guitar sits back when it should and finds its way into the spotlight only when called upon. In a band of this style, it is often the case that one instrument will win a power struggle for being the most heard- that is not the case at all with No Showers On Vacation. Here we have a group that meshes really well and leaves space for every aspect of their music to shine.

One that will get listeners up and active is “Sinkko.” Really, the only thing listeners might want more here is…literally more! The song hooks you in and then sets you free. It is easy to listen to this one a few times to soak in the vibes and the bouncy rhythm. “Amtrakk” features a beautifully organized instrumental that harkens back to a lot of 70’s jams. This is something you likely do not hear a lot of, coming from a band writing music today. The song has a progression that feels like you are actually traveling on a train (minus sitting next to someone who did not shower on their vacation). The charging, locomotive piano and beat drop off to a grand, empowering progression that can be likened to driving out of a tunnel onto a mountainside road.

The beauty of what the band puts together here compared to the dirty funk in something like “Chonk” gives this album a whole of re-listening value. Highly recommend, and keep an eye out for when No Showers On Vacation are able to get back out to their live element! Find them on Instagram to keep up to date.

Key Tracks: Chonk, Amtrakk, Gold

March 7, 2021
NYS Music’s March Madness 2021: Round 2

First, we would like to congratulate our round two winners, as well as all of the bands who participated. March Madness has a stout lineup and you will not be disappointed. Make sure you give all the bands a listen below. Get sucked in to NYS and see what we’ve said about bands in round two.

March Madness 2021 Round One

Since 2015, New York State Music has crafted a March Madness bracket delving into the musical harbors of our great state. As fans and musicians ourselves, we spotlight the great talent across New York in friendly competition and discovery. Its furry never looses sight of the underdog, a headliner’s humble beginnings, new musical discovery and rolling with the punches in our ever-changing industry.

March Madness 2021 Balbert Marketing Region:

Tortoise Forest – Buffalo — Vs. — Baked Shrimp – Long Island

“A mixture of prog with aspects of jam, dub, and jazz give the group an eclectic sound that departs just enough from its classical music roots to create something exciting and new sounding.” Tortoise Forest

“An impressive musical and technical feat from start to finish. The opening track, “The Vision That I Can See,” is a jaw-dropping epic that really showcases the prowess of this band” – Baked Shrimp ‘Bubble Suit’

Kate Usher & Sturdy Souls – Montauk – Vs. – The Goodnight Darlings – New York

“oceanside, cozied up in warm vibes with a breeze in your hair. Manifesting in two forms, duo and full band.” –Cait Elizabeth

“Bred from Faulkner’s ‘murder your darlings,’ nothing stands on safe ground. At any moment an explosion of creative energy, or sound, propels the band into an epic dance-rock performance.” The Goodnight Darlings

Frank Palangi – Queensbury — Vs. — Vaporeyes – Syracuse

“A personality that doesn’t give up; no matter what it takes. He fuels a refreshing positive outlook serving up a feeding frenzy of edgy heavy guitars, deep n gritty vocals.” Frank Palangi ‘Bring On The Fear’

“But before you close your eyes and float away, the band changes things up, shaking the listener from the dream state. On “Donye Wump,” Cadley (drums) turns the tempo up and brings everyone along.” Vaporeyes ‘Cantrips’

Runitup Sho – Queens — Vs. — Gerald Slevin – New York/Ithaca

“It isn’t just the distinctive guitar riffs nor the infectious chorus, but the duo’s effervescence throughout the song that will likely coax listeners into joining them in sing-a-longs.” – Runitup Sho “Pressure”

“His inspiration came from his 4-year-old daughter during a hike when he saw her look to the sky and blow a kiss. She was blowing a kiss to the future. That accidental yet wholesome moment resulted in the song’s creation in 15 minutes.” – Gerald Slevin Begins Solo Journey

Polls are now closed. Stay tuned for Round 3 voting, beginning Thursday, March 11 at 8am!

March Madness 2021 518 Prints Region:

King Buffalo – Rochester — Vs. — Periodic Table of Elephants – Rochester

“The psychedelic rock band with a heavy blues bent delivers heady grooves laden with symbolic imagery. It’s the kind of music that is best heard live – but if not live, then on a turntable in a room with curtains drawn and incense burning.”

“If there ever was a formula behind the iconic music of the 90s, many would say it would be “Guys with instruments & vocals” + “Guttural feelings” + “Garage.” While rock is not as dominant on today’s airwaves, Periodic Table of Elephants keep this classic formula alive and well.”

Grosh – Buffalo — Vs. — The Dirty Pennies – Rochester

“A classic thou hard rock, with influences from band like Led Zeppelin to Rival Sons. Guitar riffing, a present bass and superb drumming, not to mention the powerful voice of Megan Brown” – ‘Whether or Not you Know’

“The gritty song features staple driving guitar riffs that the Pennies are known and loved for. It’s a more aggressive song…fueled by the times in which we are living.” Video Premiere: ‘I’m Your Man’

Purple Stuff – Albany — Vs. — Blind Owl Band – Saranac Lake

“Prepare yourself for an explosion of improvisational funk that will evoke dance moves you didn’t even know you had inside ya.” – Prepare for the Purple Stuff

“After harnessing the rawness of traditional bluegrass instrumentation, the band has taken the genre into an entire new dimension. The fast-fingered, high energy, cohesive group explores their live performance with an element of improvisation, gaining energy from their audience.” BOB Host a Halloween Bash

Annie in the Water – Albany — Vs. — Hartley’s Encore – Albany

“At the intersection of Rock, Reggae, Funk, Blues and Jam written with a conscious dose of positive vibes, unique melodies and down to earth lyrics. The innate ability to fill an entire night with original music or cover in their signature style, fans share extraordinary experiences that can’t be seen anywhere else.” The Palace Sessions

“One goal in mind: create funky, dance-leaning tracks that leave the live crowd choice but to groove in their immediate proximity. “Take ‘Em Down” and “Can’t Fake the Funk” are full embodiments of dance anthems, an impressive horn section splashed throughout.” ‘Hartley’s Encore’

Polls are now closed. Stay tuned for Round 3 voting, beginning Thursday, March 11 at 8am!

March Madness 2021 Creative Concerts Region:

Central New York promoters Creative Concerts bring fans together

ShwizZ – Nyack — Vs. — Sarah King – Brooklyn

“ShwizZ slams you against the blackboard in awe that all your basic math skills have fleeted. Not only does ShwizZ explore a multi-level, mixed-meter halfway house of genres, but also bulldoze your ear to the other end of the record collection.” Chuck DeFilippo on ‘Big Things

“On this classic Black Sabbath tune. Sarah King adds to the field of great artists who have brought a twist on this brilliant anti-war song.Sarah King’s acoustic rendition is chilling, and cuts to core of the song, a treatment so honest and pure that it is as powerful as the original.” Pete Mason on NXNES

Harmonic Dirt – Syracuse — Vs. — Sháquan – New York

“They pull inspiration from Son Volt, Wilco, Neil Young and other heavy hitters of the sixties folk-rock genre. Not many aspiring musicians make music like this anymore. Harmonic Dirt delivers that.” – Hearing Aide: ‘Anthracite’

Lo-Fi Hip Hop Rap. Sháquan on Soundcloud with “Long Time Coming (Prod. By Krs.)”

Glass Pony – Albany — Vs. — Our Common Roots – Utica

“Swing That Maximus” has a full two-minute instrumental intro. With tempo changes up the wazoo throwing the listener from dance-y beats that make you want to get up and boogie, to slow sections you would barely move.” Hearing Aide: Glass Pony ‘Glass Pony’

Since 2015, Our Common Roots is an alternative rock band bringing a blend of nostalgic blues vibes with a modern rock feel; OCR is committed to providing a fun atmosphere that will keep you dancing through the night.

Mikaela Davis – Rochester — Vs. — Antwon Levee – Plattsburgh

“The harp has been known since antiquity in Asia, Africa and Europe, early as 3000 BCE. ‘Learning Live Dead was really fun and difficult, we rehearsed like twice a week for a month because we really wanted to play through like the record with no stops,’” Mikaela Davis.

“Levee’s production is rooted in thumping bass, drum-machine-style loops and carefully developed songs. His compositions only seem simple: Every note, every drum hit, is calculated for maximal impact. He’s profane, clever and full of tight flow patterns.” Justin Boland, Seven Days, on Antwon Levee

Polls are now closed. Stay tuned for Round 3 voting, beginning Thursday, March 11 at 8am!

March Madness 2021 Lark Hall Region:

Lark Hall -A soon to open mid-sized Albany venue.

Kelly and Kat – Long Island — Vs. — Remsen Social Club – Utica

“Elements of rock, pop, and jazz are accompanied by their soft vocals and smooth harmonies. Music has allowed the sisters to form a strong bond.” – Kelly and Kat on NYS Music

“Vocals bring something unique with their bluegrass, Americana sound. Playing a mix of original music, “Stuck In the Middle With You” by Stellars Wheel, they had the crowd wound up.” – RSC at Oak Mountain Bluegrass

Jess Novak – Syracuse — Vs. — Intrepid Travelers – Buffalo

“Complemented by drums and guitar, the upbeat tempo of “Match” creates an eccentric mood. The beat leaves listeners toe-tapping and wanting to get up and dance. Violins match fast-paced tempo and create a new level of fire through Novak’s singing.” “Standing Now”

“This recording session was among the most rewarding and creatively fulfilling projects I’ve ever been a part of – self producing these tracks has the band energized and excited for more!” Adam Bronstein Intrepid Travelers

Organ Fairchild – Buffalo — Vs. — Dodongo – Ithaca

“Jan. 2021 marks the release of single, “Seepin’,” from long-time Buffalo jam band veterans Organ Fairchild. Members have a history on the jam scene dating back 40 years.”
Debut Single”Seepin”

Hey! Listen! Dodongo is more than a jam collective. It’s a way of life. It’s also a lizard-like creature in Zelda. Jams from Brooklyn .

See NYS Music’s March Madness shoutout on Dodongo’s Linktree.

The Brass Machine – Buffalo — Vs. — Funktional Flow – Buffalo

“Laying down funky New Orleans-style street beats across the United States and Canada. Formed in 2014 at the University at Buffalo, The Brass Machine provides a unique blend of hip hop, funk, and R&B, all in an infectious and energetic package.”

“Over a heady Three Heads beer at theirBrewery, we discussed* Flowfest, Night Lights Music Festival, The Great Blue Heron Music Festival and Cobblestone live. Also, birth of the band, their long-term growth and a few influences.”

*A “Rochester Groovecast” podcast with tracks, “Back Door” and “Time Will Tell.” – Functional Flow

Polls are now closed. Stay tuned for Round 3 voting, beginning Thursday, March 11 at 8am!

Check out more Jamcast on NYS Music

Don’t forget about our amazing sponsors:

Central New York promoters Creative Concerts bring together fans at venues, stretching from Albany to Rochester and Syracuse to Utica. Lark Hall is the soon to open mid-sized venue in Albany that will host bands of all sizes, events and more. If you need to market your show, event, band or brand, Rochester’s Balbert Marketing has you covered. Need merchandise? Homegrown Eastern New York’s 518 Prints makes quality goods for local, regional and national bands or tours. High Peaks Event Production is a team with years of experience, aiding in all your stage, lighting and sound demands. JamCast proves high quality streams for bands, podcasts and much more. Between these companies, bands will find a great deal of what they need, and support businesses from across New York and the Northeast.

We’re also proud to present a bracket designed by the good folks at Wook+ Media, who have been keeping brackets going strong throughout the year, with unique topics and incredibly artistic designs. Check out the Round 2 graphic below:

March 6, 2021

Built in Breakdance