Tag: Jess Novak Band

  • Joe Altier, Jess Novak & Cait Devin play ‘Hazel’s Way’ Benefit at ONCO in Tully

    On Sunday, November 7, ONCO Fermentations in Tully, New York hosted a benefit of music and activities to celebrate the dedication of a new town road, “Hazel’s Way,” in support of Hazels Hope Foundation. This brand new town of Tully street located off Meetinghouse road across from ONCO was named “Hazel’s Way” in honor of thirteen year old Cazenovian Hazel Shaw, who passed in April from a rare ninth chromosome disorder. 

    ONCO

    The event raised over $3000 for Hazel’s Hope & families of children with special needs. A fashion with compassion idea that keeps on growing.

    Hazel knew how to walk but wasn’t able to tell her body how to do it and she knew what she wanted to say but the words didn’t always come out. From her wheelchair and communication device Hazel’s love for art flourished during her days.

    Her finger paintings inspired her Aunt Debby Martin to incorporate Hazel’s art work into scarves. Debbie Martin fashions added the Hazel & Friends line to her collection in 2014. It utilizes the designs of children with disabilities on scarves to raise funds to build playgrounds and support genetic research towards “Hazel’s Hope.”

    Hazel & Friends scarf

    Hazel enjoyed her life by spending time with her sisters Pearl & Mabel, enjoying dance parties, musicals, and fireworks. The seasonably sunny Sunday had all the elements Hazel loved. Her smiling spirit could be felt shining on all those enjoying the benefit. No fireworks but local Labrador Mountain hang gliders could be seen in the skies above ONCO throughout the day.

    ONCO

    Syracuse musician Joe Altier performed a few moving songs for the ceremony on his piano. It helped launch the full crowd into the day’s festivities.

    Central New York rockers Jess Novak and Cait Devin performed a special acoustic matinee set from 4 PM till 6 PM. Some tiny dancers in the crowd also helped on their tambourines. Jess Novak joined on violin during Cait Devins’ acoustic set for a jam on the Allman Brothers Band classic “Whipping Post,” Cait definitely helped put her own vibe on this legendary song.

    Jess Novak tapped her foot tambourine along with the the tiny dancers in the crowd for a cover of Tedeschi Trucks Band soul refresher “Anyhow.” Jess put her own spin after looping the guitar rhythm for a Larry Campbell-like fiddle solo on the violin before ending the tune. The duo really channeled these southern artists’ sound and their own material in the Southern Tier on Sunday.

    On Sunday, November 28, Jess Novak and her band will hop down Route 20 through the tier to Meires Creek in Cazenovia for their new Thousand Lives album release party. The Jess Novak Band continues the tour in support of the album as they return to ONCO Fermentations on December 4.

    ONCO will also be bringing local talent Biggs & Young on Friday November 12 and a special Thanksgiving Eve party with The Shylocks. After the holiday, The Vectors are set to rock on November 26.

    ONCO

    ONCO is one of Central New York’s best new music venues, offering live music weekly in its “cozy warehouse-style” tasting room or outside in the beer garden when seasonally allowed.  A new 3400 square foot Back Space area is under construction for hosting larger groups and music acts. It currently serves as a raw but inviting overflow space and features indoor games such as cornhole and foosball while under construction.

    ONCO

    ONCO offers a rotating taplist of 12 house brewed beers along with NYS wine and hard ciders. Starting November 4 and running all Fall and Winter ONCO is partnering with Spinner Culinary LLC and Naan Ya’ Business food truck to pair simple exciting food to your ONCO cold beverage tasting experience.

    ONCO is just off I-81 twenty five minutes south of Syracuse and just 18 minutes north of Cortland. Arrive by car, bicycle, or snowmobile (ONCO is a Tully Trailblazer’s trail head). Just minutes from Song Mountain, Labrador Hollow, and other outdoor activities, ONCO is a welcome addition to Southern Onondaga County, offering a relaxed vibe to go with great music, food, and of course, beer. #Tullyrocks


  • 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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

    band merch

    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.

  • Jess Novak finds inspiration from “Joker” for “The Joke” music video

    Jess Novak, winner of Best Pop Artist at the 2021 SAMMY Awards, is out on the road this summer across Central New York. But first, she has “The Joke” to share with you.

    With Joker inspired song lyrics and an accompanying music video where Novak channels Harley Quinn, “The Joke” creates Novak’s own version of the super villain – sweet, yet angry, with a custom jacket by Adirondack Ink – allowing the singer to step outside herself as she got into character. 

    jess novak the joke

    Written and recorded by Jess Novak and The Jess Novak Band at Hobin Studios in 2020 and filmed by DripNetwork and Lights on Fayette in 2021, “The Joke” captures her love of music videos and the inspiration drawn from the film.

    A huge music video nut when I was a kid, I had wanted to make music videos for a living. I love the idea of telling a whole story in five minutes using a song. It’s always thrilled me. In the past we’ve made really fun videos, but this is the first that really tells a story and I couldn’t be happier about it.

    Jess Novak

    Setting out to make a video that goes deeper, and teaches people about the world and themselves, “The Joke” was shot at Lights on Fayette in their new warehouse on West Fayette Street in Syracuse, where they plan to hold more photo and video shoots, record music and hold live performances. 

    jess novak the joke

    The concept came directly from the lyrics and was something Novak had in her head since she wrote the song. Moved by the origin of the classic supervillain, she had begun writing lyrics for the song before she left her second screening of the film. 

    My mom always said when I was growing up that the villains were her favorite part of Disney movies because they had more depth, more story – and it took a long time for me to understand that. Joker really proved it.

    I appreciated that movie because it not only provided an alternate perspective, but it made me root for the bad guy, which I found fascinating. It also touched on the subject of mental health, which I feel is often skirted around in mainstream entertainment. Artists talk about it, but they don’t dive so deeply into it because it’s scary and almost taboo. But Joker took it head-on.

    Jess Novak

    The lyric “I hope that my death, it makes more sense from my life” is a direct draw from the movie, one that connected with Novak.

    I really hoped the movie would make people see that people who are “bad” or do “bad things” are really just a product of their environment, which is what this song is saying, too. We place too much blame, or in reverse, pride, on people when really, they are just formations of their upbringing and situation.”

    Jess Novak

    For the music video, Novak’s concept has drawn out a storyboard and then the team took it from there, altering it to make the video more like a movie, with action scenes and a short plot. Starting with Novak as the villain, her boyfriend splits and leaves her to deal with the cops. Betrayed, she chooses to stand up, get out of the handcuffs and wreak havoc. This theme is explored on the album Standing Now, that “The Joke” is featured on.

    jess novak the joke

    Novak is already talking about the next video with the same team for a song they are currently recording, “Devil’s Walk”, a follow-up to her 2016 song “Counting on Love.” Look for this video and more this fall from Jess Novak. 

    The Jess Novak Band members featured in “The Joke” video include Novak, Byron Cage, Anthony Saturno, Nick Fields, Gavin George and Jabare Mckinstry. “The Joke” was directed by Mac Cushing and edited by Bryan Wolcik.

    The latest album from Jess Novak Band, Standing Now is available here and you can watch “The Joke” below. Pre-order her new album A Thousand Lives here

    For the summer, you can catch her solo, duo or full band performances across Central New York.  

    Jess Novak Summer 2021 Tour Dates

    June 29 – Great Northern Mall Food Truck Fest – Clay, NY – 6 p.m. – DUO
    June 30 – The Taste Smokers – Bethlehem, PA – 8 p.m. – SOLO
    July 1 – Tiki Island – Baldwinsville, NY – 6 p.m. – SOLO
    July 2 – Homer Hops – Homer, NY – 6 p.m. – DUO
    July 3 – Middle Ages – Syracuse, NY – 4 p.m. – JNB
    July 4 – Steamers – Oswego, NY – 3 p.m. – DUO
    July 8 – Heritage Hill – Pompey, NY – 6 p.m. – JNB
    July 9 – Rome Summer Concert Series – Rome, NY – 7 p.m. – DUO
    July 12 – Northside Bar and Grille – Surf City, NY – 6 p.m. – TBD
    July 18 – Willie’s Chop Shop – Sylvan Beach, NY – PIRATE’S WEEKEND – 2 p.m. – DUO
    July 22 – Meier’s Creek – Cazenovia, NY – 6 p.m. – SOLO
    July 23 – Gibby’s – Oswego, NY – 7 p.m. – SOLO
    July 24 – Skaneateles Brewery – Skaneateles, NY – 3 p.m. – DUO
    July 25 – Concerts on the Waterfront – Sackets Harbor, NY – 3 p.m. – JNB
    July 28 – Alex’s on the Water – Oswego, NY – 6 p.m. – SOLO
    August 4 – Perseverance Park – Syracuse, NY – 12  p.m. – NOVAK/SATURNO
    August 5 – La Parrilla – Oswego, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 7 – McConnellsville Golf Club – Blossvale, NY – 7:30 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 7 – Lukins – Utica, NY – 10 p.m. – LAST CALL KINGS
    August 8 – The Nest – Tully, NY – 5 p.m. – DUO
    August 10 – Farmers Market – Clinton Square, Syracuse, NY – 11:30 a.m. – NOVAK
    August 12 – Heritage Hill – Pompey, NY – 5 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 13 – Stinger’s – Manlius, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 14 – Private Event – SAFE WORD BAND
    August 15 – Willie’s Chop Shop – Sylvan Beach, NY – 2 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 16 – Levitt AMP Music Series – Utica, NY – 6 p.m. – JNB
    August 18 – The Preserve at 405 – Syracuse, NY – 6 p.m. – DUO
    August 19 – Duskees – Phoenix, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 20 – Canale’s – Oswego, NY – 7 p.m. – DUO
    August 21 – Private Event – DUO
    August 22 – Steamers – Oswego, NY – 3 p.m. – JNB
    August 24 – New York State Fair Experience Stage – Syracuse, NY – 2 p.m. – JNB
    August 25 – Alex’s on the Water – Oswego, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 26 – Hops Spot – Clayton, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 27 – Bellevue Country Club – Syracuse, NY – 6 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 28 – Clinton Music and Arts Festival – Clinton, NY – 3 p.m. – NOVAK
    August 28 – Tiki Island – Baldwinsville, NY – 7 p.m. – JNB
    August 29 – Panther Pub – Allamuchy, NJ – 5 p.m. – NOVAK