Category: News Desk

Bela Fleck Announces New Album “My Bluegrass Heart” and Upcoming Tour Dates

NYC-native and 16-time Grammy-winner Bela Fleck marks his return to bluegrass with My Bluegrass Heart, out September 10. In preparation for this release, Fleck shared the single “Charm School,” a collaboration with fellow bluegrass musicians Billy Strings and Chris Thile.

Banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck is best known for his work with the bands New Grass Revival and Béla Fleck & the Flecktones. Fleck was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame as a member of New Grass Revival in 2020.

My Bluegrass Heart is the third chapter in Fleck’s multi-decade-spanning trilogy that began with 1988’s Drive and continued in 1999 with The Bluegrass Sessions. Produced and composed by Fleck, My Bluegrass Heart carries on the bluegrass tradition of sharing music between generations.

They nearly always come back, all the people that leave bluegrass. I had a strong feeling that I’d be coming back as well.
Béla Fleck

Fleck first shared single “Charm School,” featuring Billy Strings on guitar and Chris Thile on mandolin, on July 28. The track is hypnotizingly fun – the interweaving of instruments is in a soulful, yet danceable way. The inclusion of the count off and “whew!” at the end with excitable agreeance by the other musicians feels so organic. This natural approach makes listeners feel present at the recording session, only to be brought down from bluegrass heaven once the eight-minute piece inevitably comes to an end. “Charm School” is a promising introduction to My Bluegrass Heart, proving that Fleck’s love for the genre is just as passionate as ever.

In some ways, it’s the wildest and jammiest track on the album, and yet highly melodic and organized. I feel this was the perfect vehicle for this band and the perfect band for this song.
Béla Fleck

“Charm School” is out now on all major streaming platforms and My Bluegrass Heart is available for preorder on BelaFleck.com.

Fleck has also announced he will be touring My Bluegrass Heart throughout 2021 and 2022, including a special night at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on January 7 with Sam Bush, Michael Cleveland, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Sierra Hull, Edgar Meyer, Justin Moses, Mark Schatz, Billy Strings, Bryan Sutton, Chris Thile, Molly Tuttle and more.

Ticket information for the “My Bluegrass Heart Tour” can be found on Bela Fleck’s website and more dates are to come.

Béla Fleck: My Bluegrass Heart Tour

With Michael Cleveland, Sierra Hull, Justin Moses, Mark Schatz, & Bryan Sutton:

9.17 Roanoke, VA // Jefferson Center

9.18 Berryville , VA // Watermelon Pickers’ Fest 2021

9.19 Glenside, PA // The Keswick Theatre

9.21 Pittsburgh, PA // Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall

9.22 Bethesda, MD // The Music Center at Strathmore

9.23 Cumberland, MD // DelFest

9.24 Princeton, NJ // McCarter Theatre Center

9.25 Boston, MA // Berklee Performance Center

9.26 North Adams, MA // FreshGrass

9.28 Kent, OH // The Kent Stage

9.29 Cincinnati, OH // Taft Theatre

9.30 Charlottesville, VA // The Paramount Theater

10.01 Raleigh, NC // IBMA Bluegrass Live!

With Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer, & Bryan Sutton:

* = Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer, Bryan Sutton

11.27 Grand Rapids, MI // DeVos Performance Hall

11.28 Fort Wayne, IN // Clyde Theatre

11.29 Milwaukee, WI // Riverside Theater

12.01 St. Louis, MO // The Sheldon Concert Hall

12.02 Des Moines, IA // Hoyt Sherman Place

12.03 Salina, KS // The Stiefel Theatre

12.04 Denver, CO // Paramount Theatre*

12.05 Jackson, WY // Center For The Arts

12.07 Portland, OR // Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall

12.08 Seattle, WA // Paramount Theatre*

12.09 Eugene, OR // Jaqua Concert Hall – 2 shows!

12.10 Redding, CA // The Cascade Theatre*

12.11 Reno, NV // Silver Legacy Resort Casino

12.12 Berkeley, CA // The UC Theatre

12.14 Costa Mesa, CA // Segerstrom Center for the Arts

12.17 Los Angeles, CA // Theater at the ACE Hotel

12.19 Tucson, AZ // Fox Tucson Theatre

With Sam Bush, Michael Cleveland, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Sierra Hull, Edgar Meyer, Justin Moses, Mark Schatz, Billy Strings, Bryan Sutton, Chris Thile, Molly Tuttle & more:

1.7.22 Ryman Auditorium // Nashville, TN

August 4, 2021
Band Merch – a great way to support your local Artist!

New York State has an abundance of talented musicians. While music is their main priority, artists also use their creativity to produce coveted merchandise lines so that fans can rep their favorite bands all day in a variety of ways. This page features band merch collections from artists across New York State – browse these items and support the next generation of hard working musicians from across the Empire State.

Alternative/Indie Artists:

The Demos

From Rochester, this indie band is known for their beautiful, calming melodies that are easy on the ear. Their newest music to date is a single titled “Private Eye” that was released in May. The Demos have promising potential to become big around the nation, not just around New York State. Their merchandise consists of t-shirts and CDs of their EPs.

Dark Honey

Coming from Troy, Dark Honey‘s music is lyrically-rich, indie-pop-rock with an emphasis on guitar notes. They are currently selling their creative merchandise in a variety of forms including T-shirts and sweatshirts.

Melt

Melt the Band is based out of New York City and their music has been described as “One groovy super organism.” They are soulful and funky and are currently selling epic merchandise, such as beanies, posters, hoodies, and more.

Mikaela Davis

From Rochester, Mikaela Davis continues to prove her outstanding talent with every new release. Her alternative sound pulls from rock, 70s and 80s pop, and funk vibes. This fabulous artist is currently selling physical copies of her full-length album.

Sean Rowe

Sean Rowe is an indie singer-songwriter from Troy. His music evokes emotions from listeners that they have never felt before because of his stunning vocals and peaceful guitar blends. He is selling physical forms of his four albums.

The Sea The Sea

From Troy, The Sea The Sea is a powerful indie folk-pop duo featuring Mira Costa and Chuck E. Costa, who make a lovely couple in and out of the studio. Their merchandise is currently physical albums, signed posters, and various clothing items.

Funktional Flow

This alternative band from Buffalo, is known for their ability to entertain everyone, regardless of musical preference. They have gained many fans over the years, performing at major music festivals and winning multiple awards in Buffalo. Funktional Flow‘s merchandise consists of t-shirts, pins, and stickers.

Sydney Irving

Although this singer/songwriter from Syracuse, just recently began her career, she has already been nominated for three major regional music awards. Sydney gets inspiration from artists including but not limited to Taylor Swift, Tom Petty, and Post Malone. She is currently selling merchandise such as t-shirts, tank tops, and buttons.

Bandits on the Run

Bandits on the Run is a staple band in the Metro NY music scene, both below and above ground. They released their debut indie-folk-pop album in 2017, and have become even more adored ever since. They are currently selling merchandise items such as t-shirts, bandanas, and stickers.

Architrave

Architrave is a husband and wife duo from Ballston Spa. Their alternative music is heavily reliant upon post-punk guitar and basslines. They also incorporate a funky 80s flair into their tracks. They are currently selling t-shirts with differing logos on them.

The Mountain Carol

The Mountain Carol is an atmospheric electro-pop indie band from Saranac. They are most known for their mixed media art projects as well as their mysterious fan club/utopian life cult “The Divine Council.” They are currently selling physical copies of their albums, buttons, and t-shirts.

Lucas Garrett

Lucas Garrett is from Queensbury and is known for his catchy hooks that don’t necessarily fit under one category. He started playing his original music at local coffeehouses and eventually released his debut EP in 2017. He is selling physical copies of his music as well as t-shirts.

Americana/Bluegrass Artists:

Eastbound Jesus

Eastbound Jesus, from Greenwich, is an Americana/Bluegrass Northern Rock band comprised of six males. They have five albums that they are currently selling in CD format.

Electronic Artists:

Fake Dad

From Brooklyn, Fake Dad is a band that will leave listeners assured that everything will be alright, almost as if they were giving you a tight hug while blasting their tunes. The electronic tracks that the duo creates have a calming effect when mixed with their peaceful vocals. They are currently selling two epic variations of a t-shirt.

Haley Moley

Haley Moley is a talented artist from Troy, that does not fit into one category. She excels at guitar and loves electronic and disco beats. She is selling CDs of her music as well as t-shirts.

Funk/Soul Artists:

Intrepid Travelers

From Buffalo, Intrepid Travelers is a musical quartet that is rooted in friendship, fun, and freedom. Their music can be described as upbeat, groovy jams with roots in jazz, funk, and a hint of bluegrass. They treat every show as an interactive experience with the audience rather than a typical performance. The merchandise that Intrepid Travelers currently has on sale includes shirts, koozies, and pins.

Noon Fifteen

Noon Fifteen is Ithaca’s genre-bending soul combo that produces forward-thinking jams with old school instrumentalism. Their sound has been compared to Lake Street Dive as well as The Beatles, with elements of gospel, funk, and hard rock. They are currently selling a band logo t-shirt.

Pop artists:

moon kissed

moon kissed comprises of New York City natives Emily, Khaya and Leah. Their debut album was self-released and tells stories of youth and heartbreak. Their sound is inspired by artists such as Charlie XCX and St. Vincent. The trio is currently selling t-shirts and vinyls.

Girl Blue

Girl Blue is the project of vocalist Arielle O’Keefe who is based out of Troy. Her angelic voice paired with her songwriting capabilities leads her to have an extremely positive outcome on every listener. She has tons of merchandise available now, including shirts, vinyls, and buttons.

Sulene

Originally from South Africa, Sulene started her music career out of Brooklyn. She is most well-known for being the the lead guitarist for Nate Ruess of Fun. She is active in the indie-pop Brooklyn scene and has performed on stages all across the world with all kinds of people. Her aesthetically pleasing merchandise collection features t-shirts and vinyls.

Rock Artists:

Bendt

Bendt is a modern rock band from Albany. Their distinctive sound blends hard rock, alternative, metal, and funk together to produce sensational tracks. They are currently selling t-shirts and tank tops, as well as physical copies of their music.

Vaporeyes

Vaporeyes is a progressive rock band from Syracuse. Their sound can be described as an actualized collective of overactive subconscious. Merchandise for Vaporeyes comprises of hats, buttons, stickers, and more.

Grosh

Based in Buffalo, Grosh is an energetic four-piece rock band. They are known for frequently selling out local Buffalo shows, and fans love them for their heavy-hitting rock style combined with their vulnerable lyrics. They recently released their second full-length studio album, Not Down For Long. They are now selling t-shirts, koozies, bracelets, and more.

The Jess Novak Band

The Jess Novak band is from Syracuse, and is known for their powerful, fierce vocals (by Jess Novak herself) and their engaging songwriting capabilities. They can win over any crowd with their unmatched energy and soul-pumped rock sound. They are surely on the rise and have made a great impression on New York State audiences thus far. Their merchandise includes stickers, mugs, shirts, and more.

E.R.I.E.

From Albany, E.R.I.E. can be described as “Not yer Dad’s dad-rock.” The motivational messages behind their lyrics helps them stand out from other rock bands. Their first full-length album, Don’t Wanna Live, Don’t Wanna Die, was released in August 2020. They are now selling one t-shirt and physical copies of their album.

The Erotics

The Erotics, from Albany, take a very straightforward approach to rock & roll. They released their first full-length album in 1997 and fans have loved them for their constant political incorrectness ever since. They have a comprehensive merchandise list, ranging from t-shirts to dog tags to shot glasses.

Mike Grutka

Mike Grutka describes his music as, “acoustic based funky modern roots rock-n-roll.” His most recent album takes listeners on a journey through loneliness and pain to find happiness and peace. His merchandise is currently physical copies of his albums.

Joe Mansman & The Midnight Revival Band

Joe Mansman & The Midnight Revival Band is a classic outlaw rock & roll band. They successfully carry the torch for authentic rock, featuring gnarly guitar solos and impressive vocal hooks. They are selling guitar picks, koozies, buttons, and more.

Maddy Walsh & The Blind Spots

Featuring female vocalist Maddy Walsh, this band from Ithaca, is a force to be reckon with. They have gotten tons of recognition from all over the country because of the genius blend of Maddy’s vocals and her accompanying four-piece band. They are selling apparel such as tote bags and stickers as well as vinyls and CDs.

Organ Fairchild

Organ Fairchild is a highly admired organ trio from Buffalo. Their music has been described as a party that never quits. Their vibe makes you want to jump out of your seat and jam along until the sun comes up. They are currently selling their own shirts, posters, and stickers.

August 4, 2021
Glens Falls GEM fest 2021 Announces Lineup

Art in the Public Eye has officially announced the set times for performances at the fifth annual Glens Falls Entertainment and Music (GEM) Fest 2021. The event will occur on August 7th at the Shirt Factory, located at 71 Lawrence St in Glens Falls from 10:30 AM until 10:30 PM.

GEM Fest brings musicians and artists together from throughout the region to perform on two stages, audiences can enjoy live painting, food trucks, and Shirt Factory gallery spaces featuring work from local artists. Hosting over 30 artist vendors, food trucks, and 20 performances across 2 outdoor stages, the GEM Festival is where the arts and music collide. This is a must-see summer event that celebrates Glens Falls’ diverse and rich local art and music scene.

This will be the first GEM Fest since the last 2019 event and they’re back with more incredible artists.

42 Degree Stage

9:30 PM The Midnight Revival Band

8:20 PM Pillowhead

7:20 PM Simple Sin

6:30 PM Terrallite

5:40 PM Freedom Stratton

4:40 PM Brookline

3:50 PM The Hauntings

3:00 PM Project Racecar

2:05 PM Seize Atlantis

1:10 PM Peter Annello Trio

12:20 PM Grape Juice

11:30 PM Erin Powers

Adirondack Guitar Stage

6:20 PM Brain Medicine

5:20 PM Safety Meeting

4:40 PM Malicious Dee

3:50 PM We’re History

2:50 PM Lucas Garrett Band

1:50 PM Ragged Company

12:50 PM 42nd Draft

12:00 PM Only Dustin with Friends

To learn more about GEM Fest and Art in the Public Eye visit their website and to stay up to date follow the GEM Fest on Facebook.

August 4, 2021
2021 Capital Concert Series Comes to Albany’s Empire State Plaza

Albany-area music fans can enjoy four exciting (and free!) concerts at Empire State Plaza every Wednesday in August. The Capital Concert Series, presented by the State Employees Federal Credit Union (SEFCU), which kicks off August 4, 2021 with a headlining performance by Grammy-nominated R&B artist Ginuwine. Other big-name artists include Lit, Wild Adriatic, Super 400 and the Legendary Wailers.

Empire State Plaza, Albany

Lit, a grunge rock band from Southern California, famous for late 90s-era hits like “My Own Worst Enemy” and “Miserable”. Their performance on August 11 will cap off a full day event (11 AM-8:30 PM) of live music and great food by the many vendors located on the plaza.

The August 18 show will feature a special “518 Night” theme, spotlighting local talent. Acclaimed band Wild Adriatic are from Saratoga Springs and bring a smooth blues rock sound. Jam-rock trio Super 400 hail from Troy and were even given their own holiday by the mayor in 2006, declaring February 25 “Super 400 Day!”. Super 400 takes the stage at 5:30, followed by Wild A at 7:10.

The series will come to a close on August 25 with a set from the Legendary Wailers. Frontman Julian Junior has collaborated since the 70s with Stevie Wonder and late reggae legend Bob Marley. Junior and the band now play and sing Bob Marley & the Wailers hit songs “the way Bob intended them to be heard.”

The Legendary Wailers

Parking is available for $10 at Empire State Plaza’s visitor lot (V-lot) or for free in the East Parking Garage. The plaza is handicap accessible. Event and grounds rules are as follows: no tickets necessary, no alcohol not purchased on premises (ID needed for purchase), no coolers or glass containers, no animals (except service animals), no fireworks or sparklers, no audio or video recording, and bag inspection or item confiscation may be deemed necessary by security. For more details, including vendor and sponsorship opportunities, click here.

SCHEDULE

August 4: Ginuwine (7:15 PM). Additional performances by DJ TGIF, Freedom Stratton, and New York Players.

August 11: Lit (exact set time unknown)

August 18: Super 400 (5:30 PM) and Wild Adriatic (7:10 PM)

August 25: The Legendary Wailers (7 PM). Additional performance by Anthem

August 4, 2021
NYC Announces Vaccine Mandate for All Indoor Concerts

New York City announced plans to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for all indoor events including concerts starting next month. The announcements come to little surprise with the rising COVID-19 outbreaks throughout the country.

Madison Square Garden in NYC.

Mayor Bill de Blasio made the announcement on August 3, 2021 for the vaccine mandate. The customers and workers will be required to wear masks in some NYC establishments including indoor dining, gyms and performances areas in mid September. The mandates will start to roll out on August 16, 2021 and after a transition period, enforcement will begin on September 13, 2021. Mayor Bill de Blasio is also requiring city workers to get vaccinated or to face weekly testing, and he has offered a $100 incentive for the public to get vaccinated in the light of the Delta variant of the virus.

Bowery Ballroom in NYC.

De Blasio spoke at the press conference saying, “It’s time for people to see vaccination as literally necessary to living a good and full and healthy life. Not everyone is going to agree with this, I understand that. But for so many people, this is going to be a lifesaving act, that we are putting a mandate in place that is going to guarantee a much higher level of vaccination in this city. And that is the key to protecting people, and the key to our recovery.”

The city will also be implementing a new app called the “Key to NYC Pass,” which is not a particular document, but rather the strategy of requiring proof of vaccination for workers and customers at indoor dining, gyms, entertainment and performances, including Broadway. People can also prove their vaccine status by a vaccine card or the New York State’s Excelsior Pass. However, providing a negative test result will no longer be enough to enter venues after September 13, 2021.

For more information on NYC’s plan to mandate vaccines for all indoor events read the New York Times article on the mandate here.

August 4, 2021
The Great New York State Fair has a Stellar lineup of music in store for 2021

The Great New York State Fair has released lineup of concerts and music performances for 2021 to be held in Syracuse at the State Fairgrounds from August 20th through September 6th.

The Fair was founded in 1832 by a group of farmers for agricultural improvement and local fairs. It wasn’t until the 1950s-1960s the fair was used for entertainment where singers came to perform.

Artists performing at the 2021 edition of the Great New York State Fair include the following national and local artists:

Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots August 20th at 2p.m.

Radio & TV personality Bobby Bones brings his musical comedy band Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots to the Great New York State Fair on opening day, Friday, August 20. The New York Times bestselling author and host and executive producer of his own breakout television series Breaking Bobby Bones on National Geographic will perform at 2 p.m. on the Chevy Park stage in the New York Experience festival grounds. All Chevrolet Music Festival concerts are free with $3 Fair admission.

LOCASH August 20th at 7p.m.

Hart-topping country duo LOCASH will open what will be the largest slate of national touring band concerts ever presented at the Great New York State Fair on the Chevy Park Stage Friday, August 20. The band behind hits such as “I Know Somebody” and “I Love This Life” will perform as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival. All concerts are free with Fair admission.

Nas August 20th at 8p.m.

Rap legend Nas will come to the Fair’s Chevy Park stage for an 8 p.m. show.

Ratt August 21, 2021 at 8p.m.

Hard-rockin’ California band Ratt will take the Chevy Park audience “Round And Round” Saturday, August 21 at the Great New York State Fair as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival. The band, known for its steady stream of rock hits as well as its appearance in a funny commercial for GEICO insurance, will perform at a time to be announced. All concerts are free with Fair admission.

98 Degrees August 21, 2021 at 8p.m.

The men of R&B pop supergroup 98 Degrees will bring their hits, including “Give Me Just One Night” and more to the Chevy Park stage Saturday, August 21 at 8 p.m. during the 2021 Great New York State Fair. It’s the group’s second appearance, following a concert in 2001. All concerts are free with $3 Fair admission.

Brothers Osborne August 22, 2021 at 8p.m.

Brothers Osborne bring their hard-driving, good-time country to the 2021 Great New York State Fair’s Chevy Park stage Sunday, August 22 at 8 p.m. as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival. TJ and John Osborne have had big hits with “Stay A Little Longer” and “It Ain’t My Fault,” as well as a hit collaboration with Dierks Bentley, “Burning Man.”

Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra August 23, 2021 at 2p.m.

Grammy-winning group Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra will bring an afternoon of high-energy polka music to the 2021 Great New York State Fair at 2 p.m. Monday, August 23. Sturr and his band won the Grammy for Best Polka Music 18 of the 24 times the prize was awarded.

Bishop Briggs August 23, 2021 at 7p.m.

Bishop Briggs will perform on the Chevy Park stage at the Chevrolet Music Festival at the 2021 Great New York State Fair Monday, August 23. The Scottish-born, Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter hit the alternative and rock charts with songs such as “Wild Horses” and “River.”

Foreigner August 23, 2021 at 8p.m.

One of the most popular rock bands of all time, Foreigner, will perform on the Chevy Park stage at the Chevrolet Music Festival at the 2021 Great New York State Fair Monday, August 23 at 8 p.m. Founding member Mick Jones leads the band that scored nine Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts, including “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Feels Like The First Time” and “Cold As Ice.” It will be the fourth appearance for Foreigner at the Fair, following shows in 1994, 2006 and 2011.

The Spinners August 24, 2021 at 2p.m.

The Spinners, the legendary soul group behind unforgettable hits such as “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love?” and “Rubberband Man,” will return to the Great New York State Fair with a 2 p.m. performance Tuesday, August 24 at a venue to be announced. It will be the seventh appearance for The Spinners, stretching back to 1985.

DSL* Dire Straits Legacy August 24, 2021 at 7p.m.

DSL* Dire Straits Legacy, which features musicians who performed and recorded with the band during its days atop the world’s music charts plus top class musicians such as Trevor Horn, will perform at the 2021 Great New York State Fair as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival.

Train August 24, 2021 at 8p.m.

Train, the San Francisco-based band behind the hits “Meet Virginia,” “Drops of Jupiter” and “Hey, Soul Sister,” returns to the Great New York State Fair with an 8 p.m. performance Tuesday, August 24 at the Chevy Park stage as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival.

Jameson Rodgers August 25, 2021 at 2p.m.

Jameson Rodgers takes the Chevy Park stage at the 2021 Great New York State Fair’ Wednesday, August 25 at 2 p.m. as part of the Chevrolet Music Festival.

Russell Dickerson August 25, 2021 at 7p.m.

Country music star Russell Dickerson will make his Great New York State Fair debut on the Chevy Park stage at the Chevrolet Music Festival Wednesday, August 25. Dickerson owns four #1 singles: “Yours,” “Blue Tacoma,” “Every Little Thing” and “Love You Like I Used To” as well as a handful of awards nominations from the Academy of Country Music, CMT and iHeart.

REO Speedwagon August 25, 2021 at 8p.m.

Arena rock superstars REO Speedwagon return to the Great New York State Fair’s Chevrolet Music Festival with an 8 p.m. show Wednesday, August 25. The band behind classic hits such as “Ridin’ The Storm Out,” “Keep On Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling” will make its sixth appearance at the Fair.

Three Dog Night August 26, 2021 at 7p.m.

In the years 1969 through 1974, no other group achieved more top 10 hits, moved more records or sold more concert tickets than Three Dog Night. Their hits wind through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio where they are heard day in and day out, in TV commercials or in major motion pictures — songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come)”, “Joy to the World”, “Black and White”, “Shambala” and “One” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize their continuing popularity.

Additional New York State Fair concerts later in August and early September 2021

CNCO Friday, August 27, 2021 at 7p.m.

Great White and Vixen Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 7p.m.

The Oak Ridge Boys Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at 2p.m.

Jamey Johnson Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at 7p.m.

Halestorm Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at 8p.m.

Sheena Easton Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 2p.m.

Blue Öyster Cult Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 7p.m.

Nelly Wednesday September 1, 2021 at 8p.m.

Starship featuring Mickey Thomas Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 7p.m.

Third Eye Blind Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 8p.m.

Uncle Kracker Friday, September 3, 2021 at 2p.m.

Blues Traveler Friday, September 3, 2021 at 7p.m.

AJR Friday, September 3, 2021 at 8p.m.

Cold War Kicks Saturday, September 4, 2021 at 2p.m.

The Mavericks en Español Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 2p.m.

Jesse McCartney Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 2p.m.

The Mavericks Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 7p.m.

Sheff G. & Sleepy Hollow Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 8p.m.

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts Monday, September 6, 2021 at 6p.m.

Resurrection: A Journey Tribute Monday, September 6, 2021 at 7p.m.

Updated on August 17, 2021: The NYS Fair announced on August 12, 2021 southern rock band Jackyl will be replacing Dire Straits Legacy in the line up at the Chevy Court Stage on August 24 at 7 PM.

August 3, 2021
David Murray Solo Concert with Live Painting Comes to Rustic Ridge View Farm August 7

Jazz saxophone great David Murray will perform a unique solo performance, complimented with live painting by artist Nancy Ostrovsky, August 7 at Rustic Ridge View Farm in Ulster County.

A titan of the tenor sax and bass clarinet who came to prominence in the mid-70s, David Murray has recorded dozens of albums that merge free jazz with the mature style of classicists like Coleman Hawkins and Ben Webster. He was a founding member of the World Saxophone Quartet and has performed or recorded with luminaries like Henry Threadgill, Elvin Jones, James Blood Ulmer, Olu Dara and the Grateful Dead, for whom he recorded a tribute album with his Octet in 1996. In 1989, Murray won a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance for his album, Blues for Coltrane: A Tribute to John Coltrane, along with a Guggenheim Fellowship. The Village Voice named him “Musician of the Decade” in 1980.

Deeply textured and enthralling in their execution, Nancy Ostrovsky’s paintings are, just like the music itself, free improvisations inspired by and at one with the resonant vibrations and spirit created by a musician in a live performance. Her spontaneous method of smearing, dripping, squeezing and manipulating paint onto canvas, in real-time as compelled by the music, is electrifying to witness.

Over the years, the Accord, NY-based artist has collaborated at concerts with some of the jazz world’s leading names, including Roswell Rudd, Butch Morris, Michael Gregory Jackson, Michael Bisio and Murray. She has performed her live painting to music at many prestigious venues including Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston and the Eastman School of Music.

The event will take place Saturday, August 7 at Rustic Ridge View Farm, 15 Old Kings Highway, Kerhonkson, New York. Suggested donation is $20. It is recommended that patrons bring their own chairs or pillows for seating at this outdoor event. Refreshments will be available.

More of Ostrovsky’s work and videos of her unique live painting performances can be seen here.

August 2, 2021
X Ambassadors Release New Single, Announce Tour Dates

Ithaca-natives X Ambassadors have shared a new song called “Okay” in preparation for their third album, The Beautiful Liar, which is set for release on September 24. X Ambassadors have also announced their upcoming U.S./European Tour, including a stop at Webster Hall in October.

X Ambassadors made their full-length debut in 2015 with VHS, that transitioned the band from Ithaca alt-rockers and Brooklyn-indie-scene outsiders to Billboard chart-toppers. Now certified platinum, VHS delivered X Ambassadors’ popular hits “Unsteady” and “Renegades,” which launched them into mainstream success. Most recently, the band released EP Belong, inspired by ’60s and ’70s soul and R&B, in March 2020 as well as three-song project (Eg) in January 2021.

“Okay” follows the June release of their darkly cinematic track “My Own Monster” whose black-and-white visual finds lead vocalist Sam Harris performing a choreographed routine with his own shadow. Both songs will be featured on the band’s third studio album The Beautiful Liar.

“Okay” marks the start of a compelling new lyrical direction for X Ambassadors. With the same emotional intensity as 2015’s “Unsteady,” “Okay” adds deeper poeticism with verses like “We’ll make no mistake, whatever may come… We’ll rise up, it’s true and we go down this road…”

Written during a period of such uncertainty, “Okay” has the ability to connect with and validate the worries of today while sending the reassuring message that things will work out eventually.

Life is unpredictable… things happen that are out of control all the time. We all are living in a constant state of uncertainty. And yet… I say it all the time. ‘Everything’s gonna be okay.’
Sam Harris, lead vocalist

“Okay” is now available for streaming on all major platforms. Preorder The Beautiful Liar album here.

Tickets are on sale now for X Ambassadors’ “The Beautiful Liar” tour, which will hit New York’s Webster Hall on October 27. Scarypoolparty and Taylor Janzen will open the show on all North American dates. For ticket information, visit xambassadors.com/tour.

Check out their U.S. tour schedule below:

X Ambassadors 2021 “Beautiful Liar” Tour

Scarypoolparty direct support, Taylor Janzen will open.

October 15 – House of Blues / San Diego, CA

October 16 – Phoenix AZ / Marquee

October 18 – Tulsa, OK / Cain’s

October 19 – Austin, TX / Emo’s

October 22 – Nashville, TN / Brooklyn Bowl

October 23 – Louisville, KY / Mercury Ballroom

October 25 – Asheville, NC / Orange Peel

October 27 – New York, NY / Webster Hall

October 28 – Boston, MA / Big Night Live

October 29 – Philadelphia, PA / Theatre of the Living Arts

October 30 – Washington, DC / Lincoln Theater

November 1 – Toronto, ONT / Danforth

November 2 – Detroit, MI / St. Andrew’s

November 4 – Chicago, IL / Vic

November 5 – Indianapolis, IN / Deluxe

November 6 – Milwaukee, WI / Rave

November 8 – Kansas City, MO / Truman

November 9 – Minneapolis, MN / Varsity

November 11 – Denver, CO / Ogden

November 12 – Salt Lake City, UT / The Depot

November 13 – Boise, ID / Revolution Concert House

November 15 – Seattle, WA / Showbox

November 16 – Spokane, WA / Knitting Factory

November 17 – Portland, OR / Roseland

November 19 – Sacramento, CA / Ace of Spades

November 20 – Los Angeles, CA / Belasco

August 2, 2021
SummerStage Jubilee Benefit Concert nominated for New York Emmy

The City Parks Foundation has announced that the 2020 SummerStage Jubilee benefit concert has been nominated for a New York Emmy. The documentary film shows off the impacts of the City Parks Foundation free programs in New York City parks, which was originally aired in September 2020 on WABC-TV, as well as digitally streamed. The Emmy nomination is for the Documentary Cultural Category.

The film follows the story of a young girls journey throughout the five boroughs while enjoying musical performances by Sting, Norah Jones, Trey Anastasio, Rufus Wainwright, Leslie Odom Jr., Rosanne Cash, Emily King and PJ Morton with appearances by comedian Louis Black and musical artists H.E.R., Paul Shaffer, Jimmy Fallon and many more.

https://twitter.com/OfficialSting/status/1305963186210910209?s=20

Along with the City parks Foundation, SummerStage founder Joe Killian is nominated as the Executive Producer of the film. SummerStage has been around for 35 years and is a music and entertainment powerhouse.

Oscar winning producer and now Emmy-nominee Jonathan Olson breathes life into the SummerStage Jubilee at a time when public programs were halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. NYC parks remained open as some of the only public areas available to all.

Donations to SummerStage help ensure New York’s largest free outdoor performing arts festival is able to remain free and available to all New Yorkers, giving residents a chance to converse and hang out with others while attending this terrific event. For more information, visit www.SummerStage.org.

Watch a 0:30 trailer of the SummerStage Jubilee

August 2, 2021
Joe Russo and The Bogie Band Collide To Bring Fans New Single, “The Witnesses”

Following an exhilarating sold-out show at Nublu in New York City earlier this month and performance at Newport Jazz Festival on Sunday, August 1, The Bogie Band, led by saxophonist Stuart Bogie has combined musical talents with the legendary Joe Russo, releasing their new single, “The Witnesses.”

“The Witnesses” | Presented by Royal Potato Family

Leaders and founders of the 10-piece ensemble are Bogie and drummer Joe Russo. Members of The Bogie Band hail from a litany of groups, including Antibalas, The Dap Kings, Red Barat, Arcade Fire, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, David Byrne’s American Utopia, St. Vincent, The Budos Band, and Superhuman Happiness. “The Witnesses” signifies a triumphant musical synergy. In a thrilling collaboration between old friends, Bogie’s horn arrangements meet Russo’s propulsive drumming to create an explosive combination of woodwind and brass instruments – reimagining wind music in bold and dynamic new ways.

Stuart Bogie and Joe Russo

“‘The Witnesses’ speaks to the urgency of the times in a musical language that laid the groundwork for the Bogie Band featuring Joe Russo. The brass knocks you right and left, the saxophones scream, and the drums keeping you running for your life.”
Stuart Bogie on “The Witnesses”

This band is just getting starting and will surely bring more live music – like their jam-packed Nublu debut – as we head into the fall. Be sure to catch The Bogie Band featuring Stuart Bogie and Joe Russo as they hit the stage to perform live at the Newport Jazz Festival, it will be a performance fans will not want to miss. To stay updated on the band’s upcoming events, projects, and exciting new releases check out their Instagram HERE.

Listen to “The Witnesses” via Spotify and YouTube Below:

August 2, 2021