Category: Brooklyn

In Focus: The Slip Wrap Up First Tour in Nearly a Decade
The Slip, avant-rock trio from Boston, soundly finished their first mini-tour in a decade, playing seven shows over two weeks this November across the northeastern US. This was their first mini-tour since 2011. Brad and Andrew moved to Montreal in 2005, birthing The Barr Brothers. As The Barr Brothers ramped up, The Slip’s performances ebbed, playing only 7 times in 2011, then only twice at High Sierra Music Festival. Everyone wanted to know when they’d tour again.

The long-awaited Slip mini-tour launched at Higher Ground in Burlington, VT, where they’ve played over two dozen times since 1998 (lastly in spring of 2008). BAM started off with the ethereal Landing, prelude to the fiery fan favorite, Get Me With Fuji (a song named by long-time friend and one of the first Slip tapers, Jason Booth). After Fuji fired up the crowd, Brad donned his Danelectro for Nobody Waits That Long Anymore, a brand new song (debuted at Lockn’ Farm). Even Rats, their most-watched video, brought indie rock vibes to keep the first set lively.

The reflective rock classic, Sometimes True to Nothing, warmed the crowd in the first set. “The heart is a wilderness / with beauty and emptiness / that you endure”. The new rock song Motherwolf went into Chasing Rabbits, which debuted in 2003, but hadn’t been played since April 2007. Long-time Slip fans anticipated more good times from the wide mix of new and old songs in their tour opener.

The Slip flexed their jazz chops with their Coltrane tribute, Trane-ing, first played back in 1998 at The Living Room. They continued with an even older classic, Through the Iron Gate, which debuted in 1997 and hadn’t been played in 16 years! Heading back to recent times, they unearthed another gem from Eisenhower, Life in Disguise, then on to The Weight of Solomon, ending the single set with the oft-paired The Orginal Blue Air > Paper Birds.

The boisterous crowd cheered them on for a tasteful encore of The Band classic, The Weight, which The Slip has greatly rearranged, ending it typically with a Dogs on Bikes outro, and Autobody teases. Slip tour commenced robustly.

Thursday, November 11, 2021 – Higher Ground – South Burlington, VT

Setlist Landing, Get Me with Fuji, Long Ways Back, Even Rats, Sometimes True to Nothing, Motherwolf, Chasing Rabbits, Trane-ing, Through the Iron Gate, Life in Disguise, The Weight of Solomon, The Original Blue Air, Paper Birds
Encore: The Weight*
Notes: * new version, with Dogs on Bikes theme
Their tour evolved at Fete Music Hall in Providence, a cool industrial warehouse converted to a two-stage music venue. Ryan Montbleau, a friend of BAM’s who has Marc Friedman in his current band, surprised us with a lovely opening set of originals on acoustic guitar. This hometown crowd was larger than the tour opener in Burlington. BAM started the set with Landing, but ended there, instead of the typical segue into Fuji. They continued into Trane-ing, Blue Air > Paper Birds, and saved Get Me with Fuji until after the commonly-paired song duo.

Brad announced to the audience they were about to play their new single, Superterranean Onlyness, The Slip’s first studio release since Eisenhower – flowing with harmonized vocals, and brilliantly engineered by Steve Albini. Here’s a fan-shot 4K video of the live debut. BAM then played Driving Backwards with You, a song which debuted in 2000 at Higher Ground, then Lockn’ this August after an 11-year hiatus (last played at Narrows 2010). Even Rats preceded another new song, Hit Song.

More songs came back into regular rotation, such as Chasing Rabbits, Motherwolf, and Sometimes True to Nothing, followed by the sublime Aptos* > Something Learned, which debuted at Bethel Fest in 2003, and was last played at Cafe du Nord in 2010. They delved back into Eisenhower territory with Life in Disguise, then treated their hometown fans with another old-time classic, Autobody Experience (debuted in 1996!). This led into their new version of The Weight, with Dogs on Bikes outro to close, ending with a tasty encore of Children of December (performed over 250 times!)

All the parents of the children of december have a clutch
because their birthdays are the hardest to remember
when you’re born on christmas or the day before new year’s
you can sing happy birthday but nobody hears it

Friday, November 12, 2021 – – Fete Music Hall – Providence, RI

Setlist: Landing, Trane-ing, The Original Blue Air, Paper Birds, Get Me with Fuji, Superterranean Onlyness, Driving Backwards with You, Even Rats, intro, Hit Song, Chasing Rabbits, Motherwolf, Sometimes True to Nothing, Aptos, Something Learned, Life in Disguise, Autobody Experience, The Weight, Dogs on Bikes
Encore: Children of December
The Sinclair in Harvard Square was packed before showtime, being where they went to music school and have played more than anywhere. Ryan Montbleau opened again.

BAM started with Landing, then Brad launched into wild guitar playing & effects, then segued into a sizzling Get Me with Fuji, then the brand new ballad Nobody Waits That Long Anymore. They continued into Even Rats, Sometimes True to Nothing, and capped the first set with a fierce Motherwolf.

Set two started with the jazzy Trane-ing, The Weight of Solomon, followed by Hit Song into Aptos. They returned to Through the Iron Gate, into Life in Disguise, with Lennon’s Jealous Guy teases (foreshadowing?). They teased Autobody Experience inside The Weight, following up with a Wolof jam and Dogs on Bikes outro to finish the smoking second set.

The most popular encore, Children of December, was well-executed. The weekend ended on a high note, and those attending all 7 shows were eager to see what they’d play next week in Philly and New York.

Saturday, November 13, 2021 – The Sinclair – Cambridge, MA
Setlist: Landing, Psych Guitar, Get me with Fuji, Nobody Waits That Long Anymore, Even Rats, Sometimes True to Nothing, Motherwolf, Trane-ing, The Weight of Solomon, Hit Song, Aptos, Through the Iron Gate, Life in Disguise, Autobody Experience, The Weight, Wolof jam, Dogs on Bikes outro
Encore: Children of December
Originally scheduled for Tuesday, Nov 16th, their first show at the new Brooklyn Bowl in Philly was canceled. It was great to return there, having attended the venue’s opening night with Soulive. This brand new 900-capacity venue shoulders The Fillmore in Northern Liberties, with two floors, twenty lanes of bowling, dining room, stage, and long bars on both floors. Delicate Steve opened, with a straight-ahead drums/guitar rock duo.

The Slip began with Trane-ing, followed by You Might Say (not played since High Sierra 2008). Ernie Mickey continued, a fan favorite (House of Blues Chicago 2001). BAM continued with The Soft Machine, Hit Song into Motherwolf, into From the Gecko, and Something Learned. They busted into a hot take of Get Me with Fuji, where Steve Marion (from Delicate Steve) joined in on guitar, staying on through Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Proud Mary and ending the set with Sometimes True to Nothing. The Reddish Moon encore was calming, perhaps to prepare us for NYC?

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 – Brooklyn Bowl – Philadelphia, PA
Setlist: Trane-ing, You Might Say > Ernie Mickey, The Soft Machine, Hit Song > Motherwolf > From the Gecko, Something Learned, Get Me with Fuji% > Proud Mary%^ > Sometimes True to Nothing%
Encore: Reddish Moon
Notes: % w/ Steve Marion (Delicate Steve) on guitar and Charlie Hall (War on Drugs) on drums. ^ Creedence Clearwater Revival (cover).

As is usual in pandemic times, inter-city travel is capricious, so the Philly to NYC route was beset with numerous accidents and traffic jams, even after morning rush hour. The usual 2.5 hour ride to Brooklyn took over 5 hours, but I was lucky to have a booked hotel a couple blocks away to unwind before the show. The Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg is the first one that Peter Shapiro opened in July 2009. The Slip last played there in 2011, after another slow year in 2010 when they only played 4 shows.

To keep us on our toes, at the first Brooklyn Bowl show on Thursday, The Slip opened with Landing again, but instead went into Even Rats instead of Fuji. They played Superterranean Onlyness third, which was growing on us after a couple of live appearances. There was a quiet pause after, then we were treated to Invocation, first in 1999, last played in 2004 (17 years ago!). Stuart Bogie (tenor sax from Antibalas & Fela! Broadway musical) joined for a sizzling Yellow Medicine.

Brad went into The Weight of Solomon and then Motherwolf, Chasing Rabbits, Through the Iron Gate, into the Nathan Moore song I Hate Love, with Bogie returning on tenor through the set closer, Jumby. A Sometimes True to Nothing encore left fans energized. Few were ready to turn in, so we met for aftershow drinks at The Gibson, a favorite late-night watering hole a couple blocks away, where we discussed what the future may hold for upcoming Slip tours.

Thursday, November 18, 2021 – Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY
Setlist: Landing > Even Rats, Superterranean Onlyness*, Invocation > Yellow Medicine%, The Weight of Solomon, Motherwolf, Chasing Rabbits, Through the Iron Gate> I Hate Love%, Jumby%
Encore: Sometimes True to Nothing
Notes: * new song, released Nov. 2021. % with Stuart Bogie on tenor (from Antibalas and Fela! Broadway Musical

Relix hosted The Slip for a livestream on their Twitch channel, at a top-secret location near my old apartment. Brad asked his good friend Jason Booth for his song requests. Brad smiled, then turned to the stream chat for viewer requests, joking that they “probably wouldn’t play any of those”. The livestream included their new hit single Superterranean Onlyness, followed by the scorcher, Sometimes True to Nothing, then Motherwolf, The Original Blue Air > Paper Birds to close the set. Watch the stream here.

Friday, November 19, 2021 – Relix Studio – Manhattan, NY
Setlist: Superterranean Onlyness*, Sometimes True to Nothing, Motherwolf, The Original Blue Air > Paper Birds
Notes: afternoon set, livestreamed on Twitch – www.twitch.tv/therelixchannel. * new song

Brooklyn Bowl Friday saw the biggest turnout of this tour. Our night started off boisterously, with BAM being introduced by Brett Siddell, a comedian from their high school wrestling team. BAM opened with the classic, Aptos > Airplane/Primitive (only time played in 2021), the poetic Friedman song:

The airplane, the primitive, saw it and thought it was some kind of bird
it landed, he made up his mind – I can’t live knowing that there’s some other world
where men fly, up in the sky, trapped himself on the wing for a one way ride
and in the air above a cloud, there his soul stayed when his body fell down.

Before Wolof, Brad thanked the Brooklyn Bowl staff, and everyone who traveled to the show, saying “that’s not easy to do these days”. He continued, “So, if anyone bowls a strike during this song … you get a t-shirt, and a handshake from Marc.” This definitive Slip classic starts with Marc’s infectious bass groove, debuting at Valentine’s in Albany in 1998.

Bloodstone came next, another new song debut (only played at Brooklyn Bowl and Levon’s), followed by the raucous Hit Song. BAM cooled things down with the mellifluous Driving Backwards with You, last played at Narrows 2010. Panda began with Brad spacing out with his pedals, applying feedback for Soft Machine. Next was The Shouters (cut short), which was only played once in 2021. The room exploded for the highly popular Get Me with Fuji (played 243 times), with a tease of Guns N’ Roses’ Sweet Child of Mine that drifed into a few measures of Moby Dick before returning to Fuji.

The band took a breather as Brad asked if anyone bowled a strike and got their t-shirt, then leveled with the audience:

I want to say it feels really good to be The Slip again. We’ve had such a journey, from our beginnings in high school when we were the jazz band … our friend Brett was not kidding. So when we moved to Boston and really became a band together … in the 90s and 2000s, you know, and coming up with all of you and starting to do the festival thing and really getting to know this really cool community of bands getting to know other bands like Lettuce and Schleigho, and Soulive, Marco, The Duo, … they all fit conveniently under the jamband umbrella. And then, at some point for us, for The Slip it became sort of a hard pill to swallow, because we related to maybe parts of being a jam band, but we really didn’t relate to whole other parts of being a jam band. And then there was … an identity crisis there in the mid 2000s and we made our record, Eisenhower, and that was so much fun to make and really felt like a success. But we still sort of had – you know – more than a decade playing together, and it was very hard to see…you know…sometimes it’s hard to see what’s great about you, as a group … and you start thinking of ways to change it, and then we did. And so we went into one identity crisis … beautiful and contorted … what I mean, it’s really good to be back here as The Slip … enjoying what was always good about being The Slip … and having so much fun together up here, with you … and that means a lot to me

Brad’s pensive baring of his soul set the tone for Through the Iron Gate:

I get tossed like a bone into the dogs into the sky
the closing is a gathering a gathering of eyes
an i will look to you and you to me
in between the space we chase the tune we dream so lazily

Ruminating on what he had just shared, Brad continued into the soul-searching Life In Disguise:

The world is only a stage and I’m just a man
with a sound caught in his throat and a pick in his hand
but when the song comes tumbling out, you understand there’s no great demand
well it’s there under your breath behind your eyes
and you don’t have to say nothing cause I realize
that everything somehow in some way eventually dies

…and then Jealous Guy:

I didn’t want to hurt you
I’m just a jealous guy

The introspective, sombre tone evaporated with the first beats from Andrew’s kit to kick off the funky Autobody Experience, while we processed what Brad had just laid on us. After a few measures, feet and hands started flailing as Autobody melted into the newly rearranged The Weight, with guitar pyrotechnics and rhythmic undulation. They merged into Dogs on Bikes organically and fiercely, going back into The Weight, mashed up and dangerous, as they are known for. Dogs kept going, with a blazing solo by Andrew, back into The Weight, Dogs, Weight, Dogs…and our minds will never be the same.

The fans were not ready to leave, and the packed house didn’t budge, cheering for an encore. The Slip came back, and Brad warned us, “We all knew how this was going to end”, as they encored with a 9-minute Children of December.

Friday’s Brooklyn Bowl was the best of the tour so far; The Slip had rekindled the sacred fire.

Friday, November 19, 2021 – Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY
Setlist: Aptos > Airplane/Primitive, Wolof, Bloodstone*, Hit Song, Driving Backwards with You, First Panda In Space > The Soft Machine, The Shouters > Get Me with Fuji@ > Moby Dick^ > Get Me with Fuji, Through the Iron Gate@#, Life in Disguise$, Jealous Guy!, Autobody Experience > The Weight+ > Dogs on Bikes (outro)
Notes: * new Brad song (working title). @ w/ Sweet Child o’ Mine tease from Brad and Marc. # w/ So What (Miles Davis) teases from Marc & Andrew. $ unfinished. + new version, rearranged w/ Dogs outro.
The Barn at Levon Helm Studios – final night of the tour

We arrived early to Levon’s to hang by the fire. It was wonderful to see so many dear friends, some from as far as California! The Slip played High Sierra Festival most often, garnering a huge west coast fan base to rival back east. We wondered what they’d play tonight, and who might show up. Our anticipation was rewarded when Kt confirmed that Marco was arriving, which means he’d sit in. Other fans found out when they saw Marco’s Hammond inside the barn. A handful of fans had never seen The Slip before, but the audience was comprised of dear friends and music aficionados Levon’s sold out in a few minutes, so we all counted our blessings to gather at this special venue for our favorite band.

On the way in, we went to check out the merch. The new Slip tour hoodies have “216” on the front, a special code. 216 is Plato’s Number, which has references in ancient texts, the sum of 3 consecutive cubes (a “magic number”).

BAM opened with Suffocation Keep. This was another tour bust-out, last played at Sullivan Hall in 2010 (one of only 4 shows they played that year). This sombre song is about a relationship and introspection (lyrics, video). Trane-ing came next, which was played in every city this tour, but had not been played since a Slip stealth gig at Matt Murphy’s Pub on Valentine’s Day 2006 (The Slip were billed as “The Lips”). Bloodstone returned, which debuted at Brooklyn Bowl Friday. The powerful Sometimes True to Nothing and Motherwolf ended the first set with ferocity.

Marco sat in on Hammond for most of the second set, adding depth and chops to the musical stew. They opened with the sing-a-long If One of Us Should Fall, one of their most popular tunes, last played at Lockn’ Farm this summer. A funky Chasing Rabbits came next, followed by Jumby and a sweet Yellow Medicine with a Zion intro. Marco took a break for Through the Iron Gate and Life in Disguise, returning for Lennon’s Jealous Guy, which BAM only ever played on this tour.

Teasing this song throughout the tour on preprinted setlists, The Slip finally satisfied fans with their most-requested song, Honey Melon. This song is an earworm – once the “Words go in, they don’t come out.” This ended the set with great energy, and everyone was on their feet by then.

BAM returned to play an blazing encore of The Weight (fan-shot video), which was even fiercer with Marco on keys. This version had both the Autobody intro and the Dogs on Bikes outro. Fans danced wildly to celebrate this last show of the tour, and we all hope that The Slip will return to the road again soon.

Hugs and tears flowed as we processed the musical majesty of these last two weeks.

Saturday, November 20, 2021 – Levon Helm Studios – Woodstock, NY
Set 1: Suffocation Keep, Trane-ing, Bloodstone*, Aptos, Sometimes True to Nothing > Motherwolf
Set 2: If One of Us Should Fall, ? > Chasing Rabbits, Jumby, Yellow Medicine%, Through the Iron Gate^, Life in Disguise^, Jealous Guy$, Honey Melon
Encore: The Weight#> Dogs on Bikes
Notes: * new Brad song, previously untitled. % w/ Zion intro. ^ the only two songs in second set w/o Marco Benevento on Hammond. $ John Lennon cover. # new version, with Dogs on Bikes outro and Autobody intro.
December 10, 2021
Pavement to play four nights at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn

Kings Theatre in Brooklyn will welcome indie-rock legends Pavement to Brooklyn for four back-to-back shows from September 30 – October 3, 2022. The shows are part of a World Tour for Pavement, which brings the Stockton, CA group to Europe in June and once again in October-November, with North American dates in between.

Pavement publicity photos

Pavement began in 1989 and features lead singer/guitarist, Stephen Malkmus, vocalist/guitarist Scott Kannberg, bassist Mark Ibold, drummer Steve West and percussionist/vocalist Bob Nastanovich. They’re best known for songs “Harness Your Hopes,” “Summer Babe” and “Here,” and cite Sonic Youth, Bob Dylan and The Velvet Underground as influences. The group are also highly influential themselves and have been cited as an influence by artists such as Beabadoobee, Elliot Smith, Trey Anastasio of Phish and Death Cab for Cutie.

Widely renowned as one of the most popular and influential bands to come out of the American underground in the last three decades, Pavement disbanded in 1999, and reunited in 2010 with four sold out benefit shows in Central Park. This was in addition to top billing of festivals including Coachella, Reading & Leeds, Primavera Sound and Pitchfork Festival.

Shows are all at 8:00pm with doors at 6:30pm. Tickets for all four nights are on sale now here.

As public health conditions and the State’s guidance for performing arts and live entertainment change, Kings Theatre will remain flexible and adapt to applicable health protocols, such as face coverings, health screening, enhanced air filtration and ventilation, and rigorous cleaning and disinfection. All patrons 12 and older are required to show proof they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO. Patrons are required to present an ID matching the name on their vaccination documentation. Acceptable methods for providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination are: Excelsior Pass, NYC COVID Safe App, CDC Vaccination Card or NYC Vaccination Record.

Children under the age of 12 who are not yet able to be vaccinated may attend performances when accompanied by a vaccinated adult. All patrons are required to wear acceptable face coverings at all times inside the venue, except when actively consuming food or beverages. Acceptable face coverings do not include bandanas, gaiters, or any face mask with a vent. Venue management reserves discretion over determining whether a face covering is acceptable. Three-ply face coverings will be made available for patrons that do not arrive at the venue with an acceptable face covering..

Pavement 2022 Tour Dates

06-02 Barcelona, Spain – Primavera Sound
06-10 Porto, Portugal – NOS Primavera Sound
09-07 San Diego, CA – Balboa Theatre
09-09 Los Angeles, CA – Orpheum Theatre
09-10 Los Angeles, CA – Orpheum Theatre
09-12 San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
09-13 San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
09-14 San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
09-16 Troutdale, OR – Edgefield Amphitheatre
09-17 Seattle, WA – The Paramount Theatre
09-19 Denver, CO – Paramount Theatre
09-20 Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
09-21 St. Paul, MN – The Palace Theatre
09-22 Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre
09-24 Detroit, MI – Masonic Cathedral Theatre
09-26 Toronto, Ontario – Massey Hall
09-28 Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
09-30 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre
10-01 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre
10-02 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre
10-03 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre
10-05 Philadelphia, PA – The Met
10-06 Washington, DC – Warner Theatre
10-08 Atlanta, GA – The Eastern
10-09 Atlanta, GA – The Eastern
10-11 Austin, TX – ACL Live at the Moody Theater
10-17 Leeds, England – O2 Academy Leeds
10-18 Glasgow, Scotland – Barrowland Ballroom
10-19 Edinburgh, Scotland – Usher Hall
10-20 Manchester, England – O2 Apollo
10-22 London, England – Roundhouse
10-23 London, England – Roundhouse
10-24 London, England – Roundhouse
10-25 London, England – Roundhouse
10-27 Paris, France – Le Grand Rex
10-29 Copenhagen, Denmark – Vega
10-30 Oslo, Norway – Sentrum Scene
10-31 Stockholm, Sweden – Cirkus
11-02 Aarhus, Denmark – VoxHall
11-04 Bremen, Germany – Pier 2
11-05 Berlin, Germany – Tempodrom
11-07 Brussels, Belgium – Cirque Royal
11-08 Amsterdam, Netherlands – Royal Carré Theater
11-10 Dublin, Ireland – Vicar Street

December 8, 2021
Late Night Thoughts Release Their Most Honest EP To Date, “Bridges & Tunnels”

Brooklyn-based folk-pop duo, Late Night Thoughts’ new EP Bridges & Tunnels, including their hit single “Sacrifice,” released earlier last month. The duo like to describe their unique sound as “home-grown pop” evolving from just two classmates in a songwriting course in college, to blessing us with their third EP.

Embodying a singer-songwriter feel, each song is undeniably earnest, opening an intimate dialogue between both artists and their audience. Warm, thick vocal harmonies consistently present themselves across the record, mixed with groovy acoustic guitar strumming and sincere messages. This time we hear a more polished, mature sound from the two artists, now with the utmost potential after amassing over 3 million streams for their first two EPs.

Every facet of our being has taken a giant leap forward, from the clothes we wear to the videos we make and the music itself. This EP will take you on a journey through what life has been like for us as young adults trying to live out our dreams while struggling with our fears and holding on to love
Late Night Thoughts

An all new sound has debuted on Bridges & Tunnels especially listening to “Faith” where Late Nights Thoughts’ transition to a ballad format execute their message in a more fitting form. The sheer rawness of their lyrics with minimal instrumentation somehow tugs on our heart strings just a little harder. Brian Rauch’s ability to encapsulate the struggles of a long distance relationship makes us think that he may have just read our mind.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frjCfaNFvlw

The piano power ballad “analyzes the struggle of a long distance relationship,” according to the band. “It was influenced by a time in one of our relationships when long distance seemed like it was an impossible hurdle to climb, despite the love being so strong.” Rauch’s silky voice over Harlow’s piano makes you feel like it’s just you and the artists.

Mifflin Street Music produced the confidence boosting “Get Back Up” encouraging us to preserve through dark times through a catchy hook releasing a powerhouse chorus of “Push me down I’ll get back up, I always do/My motivation is strengthened by every bruise.” You can find the perfect blend of upbeat classic foot-tapping classics to more somber tracks with serious notes, the EP as a whole is meant to encapsulate a journey.

Brian Rauch serenades us enunciating the countless uphill battles that a relationship may take you on like “Love Ain’t Cheap”. Michael Harlow gives us his signature syncopated groove on guitar and we can’t help be be engrossed in dance. A type of song that will make you uncontrollably break out with some embarrassing dance moves hoping nobody will watch you.

Late Night Thoughts true secret sauce lies in their vulnerable songwriting. Yes, their songs will make you burst out in dance and sing your heart out, but when taking a closer listen one might be amazed in what and how LNT is able to describe the many journeys we take in life. “Inches” is a good representation of their ability to illustrate crucial memories through lyric and song: “It’s giving and taking/ I’ll make it my mission for more than an instant/ For minute by minute/ We take it by inches.“

These 5 tracks present LNT as comfortable with their audience and happy to share their introspective ideas. Listeners may take an enduring walk through the EP to discover something new about themselves, but should not be afraid because you can always confide with Late Night Thoughts.

Key Tracks: Faith, Get Back Up

December 3, 2021
Brooklyn Bowls a Turkey with Three band line up of Peak, Jam the Radar and Zestrove

The smell of fried chicken in the air and the sounds of clanking bowling pins has been the setting for some of the finest musicians the world has to offer; a night at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg is always one full of joy and a lot of dancing, especially on November 30 with a three band bill of Peak, Jam the Radar and Zestrove.

The night started off with Zestrove and their Americana funk styled jams. Zestrove is a 5 piece band driven by heavy guitar riffs and funky breakdowns. A smile was brought to my face as the chords from the Doug theme song flowed seamlessly into their song, “Shuck and slide.”

Following Zestrove was Brooklyn’s Jam the Radar, offering a heavy improvisational segue from Zestrove. The name Jam thee Radar is very fitting for this band, because everywhere the radar searched, jams were found. They busted out “I Want You (She’s So Heavy),” by the Beatles, and closed the set out with their original tune “Cabin Fever.”

Peak closed the night out at Brooklyn Bowl with a pedal to the metal set full of jamtronica, funk and rock n roll. The backbone of this band is drummer Kito Bovenschlute, an absolute octopus on the drums with heavy Allen Aucion influence echoing with each drum pad strike. On bass is Josh Carter, formerly of Haley Jane and the Primates, keys is Johnny Young, and last but definitely not least on guitar is Jeremy Hilliard. Each one of these musicians is extremely talented, so keep an eye out for the growth of this band because they have definitely not hit their peak yet.

Setlists

Zestrove: Keep it Recording, Shuck and Slide*, Poi, Ideal Circumstances, Nothing Left to Say, In the Backyard, Lemonade (*Doug theme song Tease)

Jam Radar: Fragile Minds, Quicksand, Drop the Dice, Help is Not, She’s So Heavy, Cabin Fever

Peak: Starlight Child, Vanishing, Easy, What It Is, Missionary, In My Mind, Run Me Down, Level, When Night Comes

December 2, 2021
How Marco Benevento Nourished Brooklyn Bowl: The Tao Of “Let It Slide”
On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Marco Benevento, Karina Rykman and David Butler took the Brooklyn Bowl stage for an upbeat celebration honoring induvidual self expression. The charistmatic smiles beaming from the stage reflected the jovial comradery happening down in the crowd. While the ever present bowling alley was running simultaneously to the performance, it became apparent that Marco’s gathering was happening in what some Lebowski fans might consider The Dude’s Temple.

Colorful crowd in the temple of The Dude. Photo by Em Walis

Many parallels between mindset masters Marco Benevento and The Dude existed that night. There was an overarching reminder to the revitalization that occurs whenever time has been carved to show up for something with the power to ignite minds and hearts alike. The social connection, dancing, individual expression and unexpected favorite cover all contributed towards an emotional elixer helpful in priming the system for the upcoming holiday season.

Karina Rykman, her bass, sparkle outfit, and hand made t shirt. Nothing else. Photo by Em Wals

The Dude Abides | Let It Slide

The opening tune of the night “Let It Slide” set tone for the night to be upbeat, full of personality and constantly shifting. The catchy tune and “rhythmic chordy bass” drew a lasting attention to the stage to the point where time seemed like it began to fly by. The metaphysical shift that happened with a song like this allowed for the outside world to fall away because senses were being flooded with every happy neurotransmitter imaginable. It was impactful enough to carry through the rest of the night. By letting it slide, fans were able to abide which resulted in the ability to be taken on a journey without having to think too deeply in the moment.

Photo by Em Walis

That Rug Really Tied The Room Together | The Royal Potato Family

That Rug Really Tied The Room Together | The Royal Potato Family From upstate to down south, the atmosphere was positively unified. Attendees, colorful and diverse, all shared a familial bond that clearly valued making a conscious effort in being attentive to one another. One woman from Knoxville made sure to ask everyone at the table if they would like a beverage or needed anything before she departed on her own beer run. A potato cannon firing distance away from the Fred Short Recording Studio, family and friends close to the artists stacked up to show support as if it were their kid at little leauge. Notably, Melt guitarist and vocalist Marlo and Veronica made time during the bands headlining national tour in order to show some love for their bud Karina. The collection of people both new and familiar with the music wove together in order to create a beautiful, robust rug that provided a sense of safety and joyful company. To add a little bit of adorable fringe to the experience, Marco’s wife screen printed custom t shirts in their basement specifically for the Brooklyn Bowl event. Each band member wore the shirt and Marco could be seen making funny faces at her throughout the night.

Photo By Em Walis

New Shit Has Come To Light | Heartbeats

Never once did the joy become irritating or overdone. The pure honestly in the fun being had by all in the room and gratitude felt had its roots deeply in the concept of “all things considered”. The music never commanded listeners to think or feel differently, rather, an offering of an alternative mindset to live in the moment was presented. The wildcard cover of “Heartbeats” by The Knife speaks of submission to moments of forbidden love and while beautiful, provided a nice balance of darkness to the mood. The reminder evoked inspiration to never ignore those precious moments when desire has sparked and opportunity has presenteditself.

Photo by Em Walis

The Dude Is Not In | Here To Percieve

Anyone that walked down the alley and into Brooklyn Bowl for Marco Benevento’s performance likely assumed that they would experience upbeat, genre-nomadic music. Not everyone knew the level of rejeuvination they were about to experience through music, community and an opportunity to look at the world differently. Attendees probably wore some of their most coveted and unique articles of clothing after very carefully taking into account how the material might look on the dancefloor. Little did some know, the fur vests, tie dye, geometric glasses and bold lipstick were symbollic to the loving embrace Marco’s music gives to individuality and self expression. During the recent tumultuoius times, it has become increasingly important to find out what The Dude was feeling when he laid on the rug with his headphones in.

Keeping the innter light bright. Photo By: Em Walis

You’re Out Of Your Element, Donny | At The End Or The Beginning?

For some, the start of holiday season in New York City could mean a dreamy illumination of the city, Rockefeller center and time with loved ones. For others, it could be the most difficult dark season they have experienced yet. Covid tests are flying off shelves so families can be reunited for traditions to resume. Conversely, many are faced with the tidal wave of grief pulsing with each gathering that might not include that favorite person no longer with us. Invitations have not been passed along to certain people because they have been rejected by their families opposing fiercly to welcoming LGBTQIA+ members into their household.

Social media feeds filled with family photos are a constant reminder of what we do not have or what we used to have but recently lost. The last two years on their own have contributed to an influx of loneliness and depression especially during the time of year when the sun shines least. Financial pressure to show love by spending non existant money contributes to levels of anxiety that only can be reached by a threatened sense of ability to meet societal expecations. The entire night felt like it provided family and support for anyone disheartened by the world. Hope sparked all thoughtout the night.

Photo by Em Walis

Let’s Go Bowling | Random Note

Marco Benevento’s Brooklyn Bowl performance provided a dream-like, restorative experience where the aforementioned conditions need not be the single identifier to one’s experience. It is not to encourage denial of such things but to instead focus on the things that emote joy. In Marco’s Interview over the summer, he mentioned often starting his creative process with drum machines or randomly generated notes. There was rarely an intention to use these starter tracks in the final project, but it got the ball rolling and his head in the creative space. The sounds were often silly and the instruments not particularly coveted. The lack in seriousness seemed to also help in the process and stay at minimum net netural, which for many of us could be a whole lot better compared to their current mindset. For music fans, it is important to buy the ticket and go to the show. Bringing along a friend that might have it rough this time of year would not be a bad idea. The point being, once in the environment alongside appealing sounds, sights and people, the emotional and mindful shift will automatically follow.

Photo By: Em Walis

This time of year, it is important that we take after Marco’s fans and check in with each other whether we are at a show or not. Think twice before making family brag posts and consider other ways to show your appreciation more privately in order to respect those experiencing a more fragile season. Most importantly, if you need help, not matter how embarrassing, please tell someone or call the New York Emotional Support Hotline CALL: 1-844-863-9314

Marco Benevento – Brooklyn Bowl, Williamsburg, NY – November 27, 2021

Setlist: Let It Slide, Dropkick, If I Get To See You At All, Coyote Hearing, Greenpoint, Heartbeats (The Knife), Bus Ride, The Story Of Fred Short, At The End Or The Beginning?

To learn more, check out our exclusive interview and a review of Let It Slide.
Marco Benevento Brooklyn Bowl November 27 2021
December 1, 2021
Caribou Brings The Club To Brooklyn Steel
Canadian multi-instrumentalist and producer Caribou (a.k.a. Dan Snaith) made his way to New York this past weekend for three shows over two days at Brooklyn Steel. Sandwiched in the middle of a 20-night run of another electro-rock band at the venue, these Caribou concerts were two years in the making. Originally scheduled for March of 2020, the Caribou shows were some of the first to be postponed in the city due to the incoming pandemic. Snaith attested to that after the opening song, admitting to the crowd how weird it felt finally being able to play a gig planned so long ago.

Caribou at Brooklyn Steel, 11/27/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

The concert calendar right now is a very strange mix. The entire live music industry came to a halt for a year and a half; postponing or cancelling shows throughout 2020 and 2021, many of which have been rescheduled and are now in progress. On top of that, there is a backlog of tours that were being planned at the time of the pandemic, and are just now trying to be scheduled for the first time. Tickets are being sold for shows more than a year in advance. Some of these artists have released albums two years ago and are now getting their first opportunity to perform the music live. This is the case with Caribou and his fifth LP under the moniker, Suddenly. The record was released back in February 2020 on Merge Records.

“Never Come Back” off Caribou’s LP Suddenly. Via YouTube.

Caribou’s music is a bright blend of electro-house elements and indie rock. The songs are stretched out on the live stage into deep jams with distinct movements and very high energy, techno-style percussions. A heavy strobe style lighting arrangement gives off a club type atmosphere ripe for the dance floor. The concerts took place this past Saturday and Sunday, with a matinee performance Sunday afternoon before a second show later that night.

Dan Snaith (a.k.a. Caribou) at Brooklyn Steel, 11/27/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

This leg of the tour is nearing its end; Caribou plays three more shows in the Northeast leading up to a set at Mexico’s TrÃ³pical Festival the first weekend of December. A lengthy second leg of the tour kicks off in February and takes Caribou across the UK and Europe with some west coast and Canadian dates mixed in. Find the full tour schedule HERE. Check out NYS Music’s photos from the first show on Saturday night below.
November 30, 2021
Protomartyr Return To The Live Stage For Three New York Shows
Detroit based post-punk vets Protomartyr are back; on tour for the first time post-COVID and giving their excellent 5th LP Ultimate Success Today the live treatment. The band made their way to Bushwick’s Elsewhere Hall this past Thursday, November 18 followed by two more sold out shows upstate at Tubby’s in Kingston.

Protomartyr at Elsewhere 11/18/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

The night opened with a fiery punk rock set from the Philly based band TVO. After a short changeover, Poughkeepsie native and free jazz legend Joe McPhee took the stage for a deep and abstract saxophone performance. The crowd was quite taken back by the significant change of pace, but McPhee stepped up to the microphone and performed a 20 minute set consisting of three distinct movements. Bits of distinguishable jazz rhythms kept popping up, surrounded by layers of breathing and speaking (inaudibly) through the instrument as if an entire story was being narrated. You could hear a pin drop in the room while McPhee was performing, but he concluded with a thundering applause from an audience truly shocked and in awe of what we witnessed.

Joe McPhee at Elsewhere, 11/18/21. Photo by Buscar Photo

Protomartyr have been a cult success for their first couple of albums and their stature has grown quite a bit with their more recent releases. LPs such as The Agent Intellect and Relatives in Descent solidified the band’s sound; a solid post punk backing fronted with deep vocal style reminiscent of Nick Cave. Ultimate Success Today, released in July of 2020, stayed true to that sound and provided another pillar to the band’s catalog. One of the singles from the album, “Processed By The Boys,” came along with a comical video featuring the band in 80s era TV game show form.

The short tour started earlier in November and after the three New York shows, the band has one final stop in Pittsburgh to close out the run. Photos from the Elsewhere show are below and stay tuned for more updates from the band as the tour wraps up.
November 20, 2021
Will Smith Talks Through His Journey at Kings Theatre
Will Smith, the world-famous actor, musician, and producer, stopped by Kings Theatre in Brooklyn on November 9th for his book tour to promote his self-titled memoir “Will”. Moderated by legendary film director Spike Lee, Smith elaborated on parts of his unusual path to super-stardom for a sold-out audience. What makes Will Smith such a compelling actor and public figure was on full display that night.

Will Smith & Spike Lee at Kings Theatre, 11/09/21. Photo by Kunal Khunger

Will Smith is a legendary figure in Hollywood, having been only actor to have starred in eight consecutive films which grossed over $100 million in the United States box office. He’s a blockbuster legend and a huge cultural figure for a wide variety of age groups. The sold-out crowd was filled with people from various ages and backgrounds, just showing how wide of a reach Will Smith’s films have had on all of us, which doesn’t even include his big break, the hugely popular 90’s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Will Smith & Spike Lee at Kings Theatre, 11/09/21. Photo by Kunal Khunger

Accompanied by a massive visual board, Will and Spike walked through some of his biggest moments, ranging from Will’s impromptu audition for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air for producer Quincy Jones to the recent death of his father. Will’s father, Will Smith Sr., casts a shadow over the whole book and the conversations he had on stage. Will has referred to his father in the book as “his biggest ally and his biggest enemy”, which only sheds a little light on how complex their relationship was. While Will spoke about how grateful he was for the lessons his father bestowed on him about hard work, there was still intense resentment due to Will Smith Sr. having been an alcoholic abuser for most of Will’s childhood. Watching the famously guarded Will Smith work through his traumatic experiences on stage was fascinating.

Will Smith & Spike Lee at Kings Theatre, 11/09/21. Photo by Kunal Khunger

In spite of the dark subject matter, Will really showed why he is who he is. I’ve rarely ever seen anybody so charming and naturally humorous. Even as an audience member, his charisma was too bright to ignore. You couldn’t help but fall under his spell, which is a testament to Will Smith’s ability as both a showman and a storyteller.

After having spoken to the audience about his life, Will unveiled a surprise and brought out DJ Jazzy Jeff, his old partner during his rapper days, to perform some of the old hits they were both famous for. They ran through classics like “Summertime,” “Switch,” and even the famous “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” theme song. I would not have guessed that in 2021 I’d see Will Smith perform these hits live, which was quite the experience.

Will Smith & Spike Lee at Kings Theatre, 11/09/21. Photo by Kunal Khunger

Will Smith has one last stop of his book tour in London on Thursday, November 18th. You can see more details here. Be sure to check out the full photo gallery below!
November 16, 2021
Sam Rappaport Drops Second Single, “Journeyman’s Ballet”

Brooklyn-based songwriter Sam Rappaport has released his second single, “Journeyman’s Ballet,” A founding member of Brooklyn indie R&B/blues rock band Gooseberry, the solo effort was led by his debut single “Till the Morning Comes”.

The song follows a traveler’s decent into isolation and contemplates that which provides him company. Silky, melancholic vocals in the vein of John Mayer hang delicately above a buoyant groove. Sam worked with Toledo‘s Daniel Alvarez and Jordan Dunn-Pilz to produce the track, showcasing the duo’s talent for warm, layered arrangements.

Sam spent most of his life believing that he was headed for the NBA. When that didn’t work out, he’s been searching for purpose ever since, traveling the country, taking jobs as a case manager at a welfare office, a reporter for local newspapers, a bartender at a Sichuan restaurant, among others. However, he’s never strayed too far from a piano and a healthy stack of yellow legal pads.

As noted by Eclectic Music Lover, “the song has a pleasing jazzy soft-rock vibe reminiscent of late 70s/early 80s Steely Dan. Rappaport’s keys are well complemented by Daniel and Jordan’s lilting guitar notes and gentle percussion that enhance, rather than overpower, allowing his lovely piano to really shine.”

Give a listen to Sam Rappaport and his underrated vocals that fit the melody of “Journeyman’s Ballet” superbly.

November 15, 2021
The Weight Band Release “World Gone Mad” Tour Dates Include Shows in Brooklyn and Huntington

Performing their current album, World Gone Mad, as well as classic songs of The Band, The Weight Band is led by Jim Weider, a 15-year former member of The Band and the Levon Helm Band. Originating in 2013 inside the famed Woodstock barn of Levon Helm, Weider was inspired by Helm to carry on the musical legacy of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group.

Years of touring have seen The Weight Band revive “The Woodstock Sound,” keeping the spirit of Americana/Roots Rock alive for audiences of all ages. They continue to keep the sound vibrant by releasing new music, evidenced by the album World Gone Mad, released in February 2018. Their live set features songs from the new album as well as fan favorites from The Band’s treasured catalog, including “Up On Cripple Creek,” “The Weight,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.”

The Weight Band includes Brian Mitchell (The Levon Helm Band), Michael Bram (Jason Mraz), Matt Zeiner (Dickey Betts Band), and Albert Rogers (The Jim Weider Band). With a US and international tour schedule slated for 2019 and beyond, The Weight Band complements The Band’s timeless legacy while pushing the music forward for new audiences.

The Weight Band Tour Dates

11/11- Buskirk-Chumley Theater- Bloomington IN

11/12- Old Town School Of Folk Music- Chicago IL

11/13- Mineral Point Opera House- Mineral Point WI

11/14- The Cedar Cultural Center- Minneapolis MN

12/3- Scottish Rite Auditorium- Collingswood NJ

12/4- The Paramount- Huntington NY

12/10- The Warehouse @ FTC- Fairfield CT

12/11- Brooklyn Bowl- New York NY

November 15, 2021