Brooklyn-based indie-alternative artist Osaze Akerejah, also known as Butterfly Haus, is set to release his new record, Hold It Against Me on June 22 via Glass Bullet Sound Company.
The New-Jersey-born Nigerian-American artist came up with the project in 2019, and after three years, is ready to share it with the world. As an indie musician, the young artist’s production explores indie rock, alternative pop, hip-hop elements, and even snippets of the ’70s/’80’s new wave. Akerejah originally began making music in the late 2000s, and formerly went by the moniker SAZE.
With this upcoming record, Butterfly Haus becomes more introspective, exploring themes such as love, mental health, identity exploration, and more. The project was born out of intense personal struggles, including a recent heartbreak, cancer diagnosis, and other mental and physical health battles.
These last few years have been beyond transformative. I’m not nearly the same man or artist I initially set out to try to be. Making music under the SAZE moniker was a lovely cocoon that I existed within since 7th grade, and I guess all the trauma, growth and self discovery of the past three-four years especially was what finally cracked the cocoon, ya know?
Osaze Akerejah
Butterfly Haus wrote “Hold It Against Me” after an extended hospital stay and as he attempts to grapple with questions about life, the nature of the universe, and manifestation. The record is quite an emotional one, featuring hard-hitting lyrics, background vocals from Norwegian singer-songwriter Rosarii, and psychedelic electric guitar from Levi Wilkinson.
Stayed tuned for this record’s release on June 22, and see below to explore more of the impressive artist’s work.
Buffalo-based band Fernway released their debut album Autocrave on June 17, and will hold an album release show on June 25 at Town Ballroom in Buffalo.
Photo Credit: Matt Sledziewski
Fernway formed as a band in 2017 and consists of RJ DeMarco (vocals/guitar), Brett Robertson and Jonah Wrest (guitar), Tanner DeMarco (drums), and Alec Dube (bass). The band has diverse influences, from Stand Atlanic, The Band Camino, COIN, and Bo Burnham, among others, no member of the band listens to exactly the same music.
The new album includes 29 minutes of new music across 9 tracks. Produced and engineered by lead singer RJ DeMarco, the album’s refreshing sound blends pop-rock, alternative emo, and elements of jazz.
Autocrave as an album acknowledges the immense impact technology has on our society as a whole. A large focus of the project is on mental health and regaining control over your own happiness.
Even the album artwork’s underlying messages focus on concepts of the addictive forms of technology and the way it can interrupt human connections. Created by Aaron Gordon and Quinn Gundel, the artwork was one of the most important parts of the album creation process.
The artwork of the record is a representation of how the advancement of technology has consumed each and everything around us. The red lips represent technological consumption and domination of all that is around us while the white represents the vast unknown.
Aaron Gordon and Quinn Gundel
Many of the tracks come from deeply personal experiences of the band, including the track “Compass Free” which was born out of guitarist Brett Robertson’s struggles and is now one of the band member’s favorites. Of the album, the band shares that they “hope these songs comfort you while you learn to navigate the ever-changing terrain of the world we live in.”
In the months leading up to the album release, Fernway has had 3 successful single releases and a great Spring tour across the Northeast region. In March, the band opened up for The Dangerous Summer and Cory Wells at Buffalo’s Rec Room.
Fernway will celebrate the recent release at the Town Ballroom’s new Oxford Pennant Stage. The stage was built with a specific focus to showcase local and up-and-coming touring acts. The tickets for the release show on June 25 can be found here, and Fernway will also be joined by close friends Marquee Grand, Ghostpool, and Amateur Hockey Club.
Following the celebration of the album, Fernway will be touring this summer with 10 shows across 6 different states. The Rock and roll band Imposters will join them on the road for 4 of the shows.
Listen to Autocrave, out now on streaming services. Fernway also updates their playlist, “Spread The Love”, every two weeks, which showcases artists they wish to bring more exposure to.
Fernway Summer Tour Dates
July 6 – Mercury Lounge – New York, New York
July 7 – Balmville Grange – Newburgh, New York*
July 8 – Soundbank – Phoenixville, Pennsylvania*
July 9 – House Of Independents – Asbury Park, New Jersey*
July 10 – Barca City – New Brunswick, New Jersey*
July 13 – Local 506 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
July 14 -The Milestone – Charlotte, North Carolina
July 15 – House Space – Charlotte, North Carolina
July 16 -TBD – Nashville, Tennessee
July 17 – Legends Bar and Venue – Cincinnati, Ohio
The Mars Volta have broken their 10 year hiatus today with the release of their new single and short film, “Blacklight Shine.” Over the weekend, the band began teasing this release with coordinates to Grand Park in Los Angeles, hinting at some kind of “pop-up” for June 19th-21st. This came in the form of a cube you can enter and experience the new song with an audio-visual experience. Today, June 21st, the single is officially released along with the bands first tour since 2012.
The Mars Volta, Photo by Fat Bob
“Blacklight Shine” highlights The Mars Volta’s fundamental strengths in their most accessible and Latin-rooted form. Vocalist Cedric Bixler-Zavala sings mostly in Spanish with his signature tones soaring over a mix of traditional drums and Caribbean bongos and percussions. Guitarist Omar Rodriguez-López presents a sunshine-laced psychedelic groove perfect for a release date on the summer solstice. When talking about the story of the song, Cedric says he is trying to shine a light on “a wave of rolling blackouts washing memories onto shore, a heartbeat that still remembers everything.” Watch the short film below, which takes place on a Caribbean beach and features a multi-generational dance sequence backed by driving percussions.
“Blacklight Shine” by The Mars Volta, via YouTube
The announcement is also coming with a short tour; a New York show is happening at NYC’s Terminal 5 on September 29th. Presale starts this Wednesday, June 22nd with a full general sale on Friday, June 24th. See the official tour poster below and head to the band’s website for ticket links. The Mars Volta has not yet announced any details on what would be their seventh LP, but stay tuned for more announcements to come.
Tune-Yards made their way to Bushwick’s Brooklyn Steel last Wednesday, June 15th, in support of their excellent fifth LP, Sketchy. The album was released back in March of 2021 and like most bands today, this is the first opportunity for Tune-Yards to tour behind the record.
The band has released all five of their albums on 4AD records dating back to 2009. Singer and multi-instrumentalist Merrill Garbus took time at the end of the show to personally thank the label for being the backbone of their career.
Tune-Yards is the musical project of Merrill Garbus and Nate Brenner and is an eclectic mix of art-pop, worldbeat, lo-fi, and vocal play. Garbus has a history as a puppeteer, and this method of visceral expression comes out in her performance style. Most of the songs have intricate vocal loops and patterns, all of which are recorded and performed live while Garbus bounces around the stage, engaging the fans. She also paraded various signs around stage, serving as introductions for her banter between songs.
Tune-Yards made it a point early in the show at Brooklyn Steel to remind the audience that we are all living on Native American land and that fact must be constantly acknowledged. There was also a long interlude later in the show (noted on the setlist as “extinction memorial”) where Garbus instructed the audience on the plight of the Bramble Cay melomys. The rodent, native to islands off the coast of Australia, is confirmed to be the first mammal to go extinct due to climate change. The rising sea level surrounding the low-lying islands destroyed their habitat and led to the rodent’s extinction.
The music of Tune-Yards is impossibly difficult to categorize. The band performs live as a trio, but with all the vocal and synth looping, once the songs are structured live they feel larger than life. Garbus’ vocal abilities are captivating and have always been a fundamental component of the music. Sketchy track “Hypnotized” is a prime example and has been a mainstay in this tour’s setlists. Garbus delivers a bit of vocal play over a sparse, but deliberate drum beat to open the track, before an array of art-pop synths and a chunky bass line fill in the groove. The band also featured the track “Gangsta” from their second LP, Whokill. The song has been one of Tune-Yards’ most succesful, appearing in TV shows Letterkenny, Orange Is The New Black, Weeds, and The Good Wife.
Tune-Yards’ tour concluded over the weekend, with a final show on Saturday, June 18th, at Union Transfer in Philadelphia. The band spent a lot of time throughout the show thanking the people that have been supporting and enabling them to create their music. Garbus is also a new mother, and she relished in that as her baby was off-stage sharing in the moment. Garbus lamented that she felt that Tune-Yards would never be able to tour again after the pandemic, admitting that these shows were also a celebration of their miniature victory over COVID. Head over to the band’s website to see a handful of one-off shows they have scheduled, and see NYS Music’s full photo gallery from Brooklyn Steel below.
Phoebe Bridgers played three nights in Brooklyn and Queens the week of June 14, 2022 to conclude the US leg of her Reunion Tour with support from Muna. The first two sold out shows at the Lena Horne Bandshell at Prospect Park in Brooklyn saw fans camping out overnight to grab a spot as close to the front as possible. The final show of her North American tour was at Forest Hill Stadium on June 16, which she called, “the biggest show I’ve ever played.”
Phoebe Bridgers playing Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
When the Prospect Park dates first went on sale earlier this year, the two shows sold out almost immediately. Phoebe quickly announced a third date at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, teasing a secret “special guest” to be announced the day of show. Fans speculated wildly for weeks leading up to the event, and it was finally revealed as Boygenius alum and friend of Phoebe, Lucy Dacus. Lucy and her band came out after opener Muna’s set.
Lucy Dacus playing Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
For the first two dates at Prospect Park, some fans lined up as early as 4:30AM and camped out overnight to secure their spot. Prospect Park was the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon (or entire day, for some) in the park. The line wrapped around the block and wove its way through the park. The scene featured fans reading, eating lunches, and relaxing with friends on picnic blankets.
Fans waiting in line at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Phoebe Bridgers fans are known for their intense dedication to her music, with some of her most diehard of fans reportedly passing out at several points during her shows due to overwhelming excitement. Many in attendance adorned Phoebe Bridgers tees, tote bags, handmade signs, and tattoos, showing their devotion to the multiple Grammy Award nominated artist. Although waiting hours for an event can sometimes devolve into an impatient and tense scene, this queue featured only smiles and eager anticipation for what promised to be an unforgettable experience.
Fans waiting in line at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Having been only the second act signed to Phoebe’s label, Saddest Factory Records, in early 2019, Muna quickly rose in popularity before being announced as the supporting act for Phoebe’s 2022 Reunion Tour. Muna’s lyrics and public statements quickly led to their become a symbol of queer acceptance. The members of the band publicly identify as queer, and their songs explicitly handle themes of acceptanece and inclusiveness in the queer community. Both Muna and Phoebe have become strong and vocal allies for LGBTQ+ rights movements. The band wished fans a happy Pride Month several times. Fans waved rainbow flags and screamed every time she mentioned gay, trans, or queer rights issues.
Muna playing at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Muna opened each of the three nights with a powerhouse set, their signature uplifting beats, and an entranced audience who sang along with every track. Some fan favorites included, “Number One Fan” and “I Know a Place.” Katie mentioned Muna would be releasing a new album, releasing the week following the show, and they included a song from the album in their set.
Muna playing at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Throughout Muna’s set each night, Phoebe could be spotted beside the stage dancing and beaming as Muna worked the audience into an elated state. Each night they ended their set by inviting Phoebe onstage to join them for their single, “Silk Chiffon.” The audience seemed to have been waiting for this, and frontwoman Katie Gavin even joked, “I think you know what song this is.” The audience danced, sang, and screamed each word.
Muna and Phoebe Bridgers singing “Silk Chiffon” at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Phoebe had teased a secret special guest for the final night of her US tour at Forest Hills Stadium. Although rumors had spread regarding which artist would be featured, Lucy Dacus was announced as the guest on the day of the show. She and her full band came onstage after Muna’s set to play a packed setlist including top tracks, “Brando,” “Night Shift,” and “Hot & Heavy,” which was recently featured as a music video at Tribeca Film Festival.
Lucy Dacus playing at Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
Lucy shed some tears during her performance of “Thumbs,” a tragic and sorrowful song telling the story of observing a lover’s interaction with an estranged father. The song features difficult themes, and many in the audience wiped tears and sobbed as she played. The entire crowd screamed the lyric, “You don’t owe him shit” as the verse played. Lucy joked at the end of the song, “Wow, we’re crying already. It’s been a while since this has happened.” The crowd not only chuckled, but their cheers surged in loving support of Lucy. Phoebe observed Lucy’s set from the sidestage, smiling, crying, and laughing along with the audience.
Phoebe Bridgers observing from sidestage at Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
Lucy invited Phoebe and Muna onstage with their bandmates for a singalong rendition of “Going Going Gone.” Throughout the song, Phoebe held onto and danced with her pug Maxine. Some fans held handmade signs made out just for Maxine, and several pointed and cheered specifically for the dog. Maxine certainly had her day in the spotlight.
Lucy Dacus playing “Going Going Gone” with Phoebe Bridgers at Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
Phoebe took the stage each night to immense applause. The instant her silhouette began to shine through the backlight, the crowd starting cheering and screaming in delight. Phoebe’s staging, lighting, and set-lists for each of the three nights featured pristine production and popup-storybook-themed visuals to match the story and progression of each track.
Phoebe Bridgers taking the stage at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
At a few points on the first and third nights, one or two crowd members experienced brief medical emergencies. Phoebe immediately paused the show, called for EMTs to assist, and waited until she got a thumbs up from those affected before continuing the show. She also paused several times each night between songs to instruct staff to pass out water bottles, asking, “Does anyone need water? Can we pass around a case of water for anyone who needs it?”
During her Forest Hills Stadium show Phoebe told the crowd, “this is officially the biggest show I’ve ever played.” Because this was the last show on her US tour, she thanked her crew from a printed list. She joked that the list was “arranged by astrological sign.” She went through each sign, occasionally joking about which signs were most common among her crew, and thanked every member of her crew by name, including her truck drivers, managers, techs, and her dog’s nanny.
Phoebe Bridgers thanking her crew at Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
She ended each night with an encore performance of a fan request. On the second night at Prospect Park, she ended the show with a solo acoustic rendition of Boygenius track, “Me and My Dog.”
Phoebe Bridgers at Prospect Park silhouetted by moon, Photograph by David Reichmann
At the Forest Hills Stadium show, Lucy joined Phoebe onstage to play “Graceland Too” and ”I Know the End.” During the latter song, Phoebe encouraged fans to “lose their voices” if they can, during the climax of the song. Phoebe, Lucy, and the entire stadium screamed at the top of their lungs to cap off Phoebe’s epic set. She thanked the crowd, Lucy, and Muna, and walked offstage to thunderous applause.
Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus playing “I Know the End” at Forest Hills Stadium, Photograph by David Reichmann
After a brief break, she came back onstage for her encore. Unaccompanied by her bandmates, Phoebe played a solo acoustic rendition of “Waiting Room.” She told the crowd, “I wrote this as a teenager. I used to think it was corny, but now I feel like it’s just sincere.” The crowd cheered and listened intently to what would be the final performance for Phoebe’s incredible US tour and three night run in New York.
Phoebe Bridgers playing at Prospect Park, Photograph by David Reichmann
Phoebe’s World tour is now underway, starting with dates in the UK and Europe. Her critically acclaimed full-length record, “Punisher,” celebrated two years since its release the following day of the Forest Hills show. You can listen to Phoebe Bridgers’ catalog here, as well as Lucy Dacus’s music here. Muna’s new album will be available to stream here upon its release on June 24, 2022. Check out our full gallery below.
Muna and Phoebe Bridgers singing “Silk Chiffon” at Prospect ParkLucy Dacus playing surprise set at Forest Hills Stadiu,Lucy Dacus singing Going Going Gone with Phoebe Bridgers and MunaPhoebe Bridgers with dog Maxine singing with Lucy DacusPhoebe Bridgers sidestage watching Lucy Dacus performFans waiting in line at Prospect ParkFans queueing up at Forest Hills StadiumPhoebe Bridgers MerchandiseFans holding signsFans dancing at sunsetFans interacting with artistPhoebe walking onstage at Prospect ParkPhotography by David Reichmann
The annual CFCU Cortland Main Street Music Series continues to grow with a 2022 line-up featuring the best local talent from CNY plus world-class bands. The series celebrates 19 years of bringing local, regional and national acts to Downtown Cortland with genres ranging from rock, Americana, folk, country, blues and many points in between. Doors open at 5pm for all shows and music begins at 6pm every Friday in July.
The City of Cortland, home of the Main Street Music Series, is centrally located in the scenic seven valleys of Central New York. Historically known as the Crown City, for its position as the highest elevation city in the state, Cortland is a gateway to the Finger Lakes Region and destination spot for live music and cultural events.
15 artists will grace the CFCU Community Credit Union stage over the course of five free concerts, all taking place at Rose Hall, at 19 Church Street Cortland.
The series kicks off with a triple billing on Friday, July 1st with headliners James Barker Band and supporting acts Taylor Made and Jon Rogalia. James Barker Band have fueled an incredible story over the last six years, largely on their own, from playing opening spots in small Ontario bars to charting multiple No. 1 singles, garnering hundreds of millions of global streams, and headlining some of Canada’s largest country music festivals. Now, with new music on the way, the four-piece is continuing their meteoric ascent in Nashville. In 2017, they sent their single “Chills” straight to the top of Billboard’s Canadian Hot 100 chart. The upbeat anthem also achieved Platinum status, alongside other songs from their introductory LP Game On, earning them numerous national awards. In addition, these best-friends have already amassed another six GOLD-certified and PLATINUM-certified tracks.
The second week of the series follows on July 8th with local roots rock band The Unknown Woodsmen and fellow area artists The Rollin’ Rust and Austin MacRae. Music fans across the Northeast are talking about CNY-based band The Unknown Woodsmen, who draw from the classic sounds of rock to create their own blues-reggae flavor of infectious rock grooves. Since its inception in 2011, the band has spent countless hours honing their signature sound and tirelessly performing throughout the Northeast. Whether it is their crafty hooks, old-school grooves, or energetic stage presence, The Unknown Woodsmen captivate crowd after crowd at show after show to a growing base of loyal fans in the Central New York region.
The series turns things up a notch in the third week, when The Rods headline the Friday, July 15th show at Rose Hall. They’ll be joined by supporting acts Sydney Irving and the Mojo and local singer songwriter Quona Hudson. The Rods are a series favorite and classic heavy metal band that rocked their way through the 80’s with a powerful, raw energy that led them on tours with some of today’s greatest metal bands—Judas Priest, Ozzy, Motorhead, and Metallica, to name just a few. Listeners will find that The Rods are still a force to be reckoned with today, as they continue on at full-throttle, with a new line-up and a forceful, vintage sound.
Friday, July 22nd, the CFCU Cortland Main Street Music Series will drench Rose Hall in the blues, when Joe Louis Walker brings his band to the Cortland stage, with opening sets by regional favorites Mike Powell and Raedwald Howland-Bolton. Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner celebrates a career that exceeds a half a century. A true powerhouse guitar virtuoso, unique singer and prolific songwriter, he has toured extensively throughout his career, performed at the world’s most renowned music festivals, and earned a legion of dedicated fans. Walker’s 1986 debut album Cold Is the Night on HighTone announced his arrival in stunning fashion, and his subsequent output has only served to further establish Walker as one of the leading bluesmen on the scene. NPR Music has called Walker “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues,” and he is already being referred to within the blues world as a living legend.
Rounding out the last show of the series on Friday, July 29th, Rose Hall will welcome headlining act Upstate along with opening artists Miss Tess Duo and Cloey Tierno.
The CFCU Cortland Main Street Music Series, presented by CFCU Community Credit Union, is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization with a mission to enrich Cortland’s culture and contribute to a vital downtown by providing an annual series of concerts by local, regional and national artists. Additional sponsorship is provided by the Cortland County Business Development Corporation and the Cortland County Convention and Visitors Bureau to promote “Crown City Rising,” a communications platform aiming to inform downtown stakeholders and the community at large about the ongoing Main Street reconstruction process.
More information can be found by visiting CrownCityRising.com and more information about the series can be found by following updates on Facebook and Instagram or by visiting their website at MainStreetMusicSeries.com.
Celebrating its 11th anniversary, Governors Ball Music Festival took over Flushing, Queens for the weekend of June 10-12, 2022. Returning to Citi Field for a second year, the lineup featured headliners Kid Cudi, Halsey, and J. Cole, as well as a slew of other talented acts across three stages. NYS Music contributors David Reichmann and Joseph Buscarello were on the grounds covering the three day event. Full festival coverage and photo gallery below.
Governors Ball in a Nutshell – Iconic Festival Returns to Citi Field
Each year fans are treated to performances by some of the biggest names in music. The 2021 Festival was headlined by Billie Eilish, A$AP Rocky, and Post Malone while other notable acts from included, Rüfüs Du Sol, Future Islands, J Balvin, Megan Thee Stallion, Phoebe Bridgers, and Carly Rae Jepsen. Before the pandemic, Governors Ball was always held on Randall’s Island. It was moved to Citi Field for the first time last year, following 2020’s pandemic-related cancellation. The new festival location offers fans easier accessibility via mass transit; a welcome change for those familiar with traveling to and from the old location.
This year’s production boasted a three-stage setup in the parking lot of Citi Field, dozens of local food and drink vendors, smaller experiential booths, lounge areas, and a space for intimate acoustic sets from artists on the bill. Governors Ball has always highlighted diverse local food vendors that represent the melting pot of New York City. NYC born and family-owned Doughnuttery was at the festival this year serving their iconic, coarsely sugared mini doughnuts and cold brew coffee.
Performances encompassed a wide range of genres across the festival’s three stages, some highlights including: Black Pumas, Jack Harlow, Channel Tres, Flume, Joji, Chelsea Cutler, Playboi Carti, Clairo, Japanese Breakfast and 100 Gecs.
This year’s festival started strong, with a warm and sunny Friday leading up to Grammy Award-winning headliner Kid Cudi’s main stage performance. Fans traveled from both near and far to come to the festival, with one fan telling staff contributor David Reichmann, “I came in from Chicago for the weekend today! I asked around, ‘What’s there to do for a weekend in New York City?’ I saw a post about the festival and bought my ticket!” Other fans came from throughout the Tristate Area and beyond, representing the typical “melting pot” experience New York is known for. The first day ran smoothly, and fans enjoyed dozens of their favorite artists during this action packed weekend event.
Crowd at Governors Ball at Citi Field, Photograph by David Reichmann
Earlier in the day on Friday, the mainstage was dominated by indie rock. Plastic Picnic opened the day, followed by Julia Wolf, New York City native Samia, and Beabadoobee with her indie pop stylings. Over on the GoPuff Stage, punk bands Ultra Q and Aly & AJ kicked off the day before the stage transitioned over to hip-hop and EDM with Channel Tres, Skepta, and Louis The Child. Experimental rap dominated the Bacardí Stage with Coi Leray, Paris Texas and JPEGMAFIA.
About a week before the festival began, Migos announced they would no longer perform and were replaced by Lil’ Wayne. Only a few hours before his set, the festival announced that Weezy would not make it due to “flight delays” and would be replaced by Harlem native A$AP Ferg. Joking with the crowd during his set, A$AP Ferg said he was on his couch when Governors Ball called, asking him to save the day. He did not miss a beat, delivering a fiery performance to a packed crowd eagerly awaiting Kid Cudi.
Black Pumas are a soul and psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas. The group found immediate, worldwide success with their self-titled debut EP released back in 2019. The band has since won three Grammys, including ‘Best New Artist’ in 2020, and ‘Best Rock Album’ in 2022. Only a couple days after their mainstage set at Governors Ball, the group are heading out on a lengthy European tour. Barely a minute into their show, frontman Eric Burton leapt from the very tall stage into the pit, posed for the cameras, and walked the center aisle while singing and greeting fans from the front all the way to the back of the crowd. The future is extremely bright for Black Pumas, whose sophomore record will be one of the most highly anticipated rock albums when it comes to be.
The Bacardi Stage hosted Between Friends, Paris Texas, and Coi Leray before JPEGMAFIA went on to deliver a powerful set. The crowd went wild for each track in his set, and he interacted with them frequently. He joked before playing his song, “BALD!” that he sees “lots of beautiful heads of hair,” but “this one is for the bald” people in the audience. New York founded electronic duo The Knocks delivered the next hour of music before Jack Harlow closed out that day for the stage with massive pyrotechnics.
Jack Harlow at Governors Ball, Photograph by David Reichmann
Channel Tres Continues Meteoric Rise
Hip-hop and house music have a long history of coming together to create dance floor anthems spanning different generations. Channel Tres leverages that relationship and creates a hard-hitting yet cool and laid back sound. Thunderous bass and house beats provide the backdrop for his equable vocal delivery, all while dancing flanked by a crew of backup dancers. Channel Tres has collaborated on songs with the likes of JPEGMAFIA, Tyler, The Creator, Tinashe, and Robyn all while climbing the ranks and becoming more and more popular with each new song he releases.
As the daylight began to fade leading up Kid Cudi’s mainstage set, fans at the Gopuff Stage were treated to a special sunset. The sky glowed red, pink, and orange over the festival as Louis the Child played and fans reveled in both the increasing prominence of the light show and the gorgeous sunset. Fans still enjoyed a few more hours of music even after night fell, but this picturesque sunset came as the perfect way to punctuate a great first day of Governors Ball Music Festival 2022.
Louis The Child Sunset Set, Governors Ball. Photo by Joseph Buscarello
Kid Cudi Plays Classic Hits, A New Single, And A Live Debut
Although there were plenty of great acts spread across the three stages, diehard Kid Cudi fans waited by the mainstage for nearly the entire day, to secure a spot as close to the front as possible. With frequent hydration reminders displayed between sets on the stage screens, security and paramedics onsite worked constantly to distribute free water throughout the festival grounds, focusing on fans who were stuck waiting at the very front of the crowds. Kid Cudi closed out the first night with a powerhouse performance of tracks spanning his expansive Grammy Award Winning, seven-album catalog. His set featured a number of hit singles, deep cuts, pyrotechnic fireballs, and waves of emotion from his devoted fans in attendance.
Kid Cudi has just announced the premiere date for his new Netflix animated series Entergalactic. The show follows the story of a young artist (voiced by Cudi) as he finds love and success in New York City. He also played the new single “Do What I Want,” which saw its official release earlier that day and serves as the lead single for the album accompanying the series. Entergalactic premieres on Netflix later this year on September 30th; no official release date for the album has been set.
His setlist included fan favorite tracks, “Memories (David Guetta cover),” “Mr. Rager,” and “Surfin’.” Cudi brought out King Chip (a.k.a. Chip Tha Rapper) mid-set to join him for a performance of their track, “Just What I Am.” Cudi also treated fans to the live debut of his Travis Scott collaboration “THE SCOTTS.” Kid Cudi closed out the first night of the festival by playing, “Pursuit of Happiness (Nightmare) – Steve Aoki Remix.” You can Listen to his latest single here.
Kid Cudi walked off-stage to a thunderous applause and a fully-satiated fanbase. Now that Governors Ball takes place in the heart of Flushing, fans were able to exit the grounds and hop on the subways, buses and ride shares that awaited them. Local food trucks and vendors were eagerly awaiting the departing crowd, offering an authentic array of the rich Latin food from the neighborhood.
Saturday – Halsey Can’t Resist Playing “Running Up That Hill,” Debuts New Single
The second day of the festival started strong, with another sunny day and some weather reports of minor scattered showers and thunderstorms. Festival staff were on alert in the event of a sudden storm, to maintain crowd safety and all costs, but thankfully only a few light raindrops dared to rain on the festival goers. And the second day went off without a hitch, with numerous excellent acts leading up to Halsey’s incredible and jaw-dropping headlining performance.
The Mainstage featured standout acts, Benee, Tove Lo, and Still Woozy. Tove Lo wished the audience a happy Pride Month during her set, and played a number of her hit tracks, including “Bikini Porn” and “Habits (Stay High)”
There is little NBA legend Shaquille O’Neil is not involved in after retiring from basketball. The CEO of Papa John’s and ubiquitous spokesperson has cultivated a second life and a cult following as a dubstep producer and DJ. DJ Diesel just released “Welcome To The Playhouse,” a collaboration with EDM giant Steve Aoiki, and is curating (and headlining) two weekends of Shaq’s Bass All Stars which features surging names in the underground bass music scene.
It’s hard for a 7 foot NBA hall of famer not to cast a big presence in everyday life, but behind the decks at Governors Ball, DJ Diesel took on an even larger persona with his hard hitting musical style and frequent cries of “where’s my mosh pit” into the microphone. Drawing one of the largest crowds of the weekend on the second stage, DJ Diesel dropped a wide palate of crowd pleasing favorites and underground bangers. Jerseys from the Lakers, Heat, and Magic littered the crowd, and many were brought onto stage for Shaq to sign and return to his fans.
Roddy Ricch had been scheduled to perform on Saturday, but apparently was forced to cancel at the last minute. A few minutes before he was scheduled to begin his set, a message displayed on the screens alerting the crowd of the cancellation. There was a momentary upset among the crowd, but they picked up from their spots and went on to enjoy the other upcoming sets, Joji, Ashnikko, and Flume. Flume put on an amazing set, with stunning visuals and lighting as the sun went down. Towards the latter half of his set, he brought Tove Lo onstage to join him for a song. The crowd loved it.
Halsey took the stage to a packed crowd of fans who had waited for hours to get the best possible spot. During her set, she mentioned having attended Governors Ball 8 years ago, on the day she signed her record label deal. She told the audience how much of an impact that moment had on her life, signing the deal with her Governors Ball wristband on.
Halsey debuted a new single, “So Good” towards the end of her set. As she began to wrap up, she thanked the crowd again and began a cover of the trending Kate Bush song, “Running Up That Hill.” The song recently made it to the top of the charts for the first time in decades thanks to its inclusion in Netflix’s fourth season of Stranger Things. At the end of the song, she laughed and said, “I couldn’t resist.”
She ended the set with her powerhouse single, “I Am Not a Woman, I’m a God.” Fans once again exited the festival in an excited buzz, talking with friends about the long and full day of performances. With the second festival day over, only one more day remained. And fans would have to savor it. Weather reports looked mixed, and there was no telling whether New York would have clear skies or daylong thunderstorms for Sunday. Fans would just have to wait until the morning to find out.
Sunday – J. Cole and Playboi Carti Close Out Governors Ball with a Bang
Despite some ominous weather reports and a passing storm overnight, fans enjoyed mostly sunny weather and moderate heat for the festival’s final day. J. Cole and Playboi Carti were set to close out the festival, with fans in eager anticipation of what was to come on the last day of 2022’s Governors Ball Music Festival. Although many fans complained of sore feet, lack of sleep, or responsibilities they had been shirking all weekend, they all did so with gleeful smiles and laughs.
Clairo’s mainstage set featured some technical issues with her microphone, but she played it off very well with her charming laugh and smile, to huge applause from the audience. The rest of her set went off smoothly, with fans packed to the front of the barricades, singing along for every song. She apologized to fans for the technical difficulties as she exited the stage, but the audience didn’t seem to mind, cheering and thanking her for the moving set.
Clairo checking her mic at Governors Ball, Photograph by David Reichmann
JID Takes One for the Team, Breaks Wrist Onstage
Atlanta-born rapper JID filled a mid-day slot on the main stage on Sunday. At this point in the day, fans were packing into the main stage grounds to claim their spot for J. Cole. JID is a relative newcomer to the scene, releasing his debut LP The Never Story back in 2017, but the fans who were there to see him were quite familiar with his music and rapped along with him throughout his set. Towards the end of his set, he brought out Kenny Mason for an energetic performance of fan-favorite “Stick.” Unfortunately, JID fell and fractured his wrist while moshing onstage during his performance, but continued on despite the minor injury. It wasn’t made clear the extent of the injury until he was brought onstage for a guest spot during J. Cole’s performance where he admitted he “went too hard, don’t be like me!”
JID also treated the Governors Ball crowd to the live debut of his just released new single, “29 Freestyle.” JID’s flow is as cohesive and vibrant as ever on the new song, which is being teased as a lead up to a new album, The Forever Story. The single and music video were officially released Friday, June 17th.
Japanese Breakfast Returns to Citi Field – the “Scene of the Crime”
Twice-Grammy-Nominated artist and New York Times Bestselling author of Crying in H Mart, Michelle Zauner and her band performed to a dedicated audience of her most hardcore fans. Japanese Breakfast had played Governors Ball once before, and a huge crowd of adoring fans came to their set to cheer and sing along through nearly every song. “I didn’t know if you would all come today,” Michelle told the crowd, “but you came through, New York. As you always do.”
Japanese Breakfast at Governors Ball, Photograph by David Reichmann
Michelle threw out the first pitch at Citi Field just a few weeks prior. She joked, “We’re from Philly […] I know I am returning to the scene of the crime, where I threw out the first pitch here for the Mets.” Japanese breakfast recently featured on SNL as the final music guest of the year for season 47. They also released a two-song EP for Spotify Singles this year, featuring a cover of Bon Iver’s “Skinny Love” and an acoustic rendition of Japanese Breakfasts’ hit single, “Be Sweet.” During their set, a newly-turned fan was overheard saying, “Wow, they’re amazing. This is amazing, I have to check them out later.”
Japanese Breakfast at Governors Ball, Photograph by David Reichmann
Playboi Carti Moves the Earth
Playing opposite J. Cole on the GoPuff Stage, Playboi Carti brought his signature staging and rap style and offered a fiery closing to the weekend. Some fans lamented having to choose between the J. Cole and Playboi Carti, but both acts drew impressively large crowds. Playboi Carti spent a good portion of the show rapping from atop a tall pyramid while a singular guitar player patrolled the stage. Featuring constant pyrotechnics and a rabid, near heavy metal-like performance, the set was one of the most chaotic and in-your-face moments of the weekend. Carti’s fans were raging, causing a noticeable bounce in the parking lot of Citi Field while screaming along to the lyrics.
J. Cole took the mainstage for the final performance of the festival’s 2022 year. He came out swinging, starting the opening track, “95 South” from his latest LP, “The Off Season” without wasting a second to introduce himself or greet the crowd, which he only took the time to do before moving into his next song, “Amari.” The crowd let out massive cheers and their dancing literally shook the ground beneath their feet throughout the set. He also included classic tracks “G.O.M.D.,” “Wet Dreamz,” and “No Role Modelz” in his expansive setlist.
J. Cole took on a more wistful tone between songs, pausing for a moment to listen to the sound of a nearby passing 7 train. He then talked about living in Queens writing songs “just down the street from here,” listening to the sounds of the trains while looking out his window. He thanked the audience and said, “New York is like a second home to me.”
J. Cole and JID at Governors Ball, Photograph by David Reichmann
JID and Kenny Mason joined J. Cole on stage to perform “Stick.” Before they started, JID told the crowd, “I want you to be safe out there.” He held up his hand, wrapped in bandages, and said, “I broke my hand earlier during my set because I was raging too hard. Don’t be like me.” He asked the crowd if they felt comfortable with some mosh pits, and told any fans who weren’t comfortable or interested to move back from the pits before they began. “I see fun. I see mosh pits. I see safety.” He held up his hand one more time, “Listen, I’m serious, don’t be like me. Have fun.” The crowd obliged, and a massive wave of movement took over the excited crowd. The three artists flew around the stage.
J. Cole at Governors Ball with JID and Kenny Mason, Photograph by David Reichmann
J. Cole played a few more songs before walking off to an instrumental version of “Hunger on Hillside.” He thanked the audience once more as he walked off. As the fun of the weekend came to a close, fans shuffled off from Citi Field in a happy daze of exhaustion and excitement. They told stories of their day to each other as they found their way to the buses, cars, trains, and bikes that would see them home. Although each fan had their own unique experience, with their own mix of artists and activities, they all shared in this singular one moment that was Governors Ball Music Festival 2022.
Another year of the Governors Ball music Festival has come and gone. Fans were treated to dozens of massive acts who may not typically share a stage together, and were – hopefully – exposed to plenty of new styles, genres, and artists as a result. Governors Ball has and always will be a definitive New York experience, and although New York concert-goers may have to wait another year for the upcoming 12th installment of the festival in 2023, music fans in the Tristate area will have plenty of great options until then. Summer concerts and festivals continue strong in New York City, with Rolling Loud Music Festival, Central Park’s Summerstage Concert Series, and Celebrate Brooklyn’s Summer Concert Series just to name a few.
You can listen to all artists mentioned wherever music is streamed, and see the full photo Gallery featuring coverage from David Reichmann and Joseph Buscarello below.
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Each Sunday evening from 7-9pm you’ll find EQXposure on WEQX, featuring two hours of local music from up and coming artists. Tune into WEQX.com this Sunday night to hear new music from, Scotchka, Phantom Suns, Witch Culture and many more.
WEQX has long been the preeminent independent station in the Capital Region of New York, broadcasting from Southern VT to an ever-expanding listening audience. NYS Music brings you a preview of artists to discover each week, just a taste of the talent waiting to be discovered by fans like you.
Phantom Suns – “Probably Wrong”
From Burlington, Phantom Suns perform riffy and melodic Alternative Rock, and released their last album, Cordyceps in July 2021. On EQXposure you’ll hear “Probably Wrong,” a new tune from the group consisting of Seth Gundersen, Chris Mathieu, Chris Knauer, and Tristan Baribeau.
SCOTCHKA – “Corinthians”
From Albany, Scotchka is a rock band blending emo, pop punk, and alternative influences for an energetic, introspective style. The band includes Dominick Murdock (Rhythm Guitar, Vocals), Brian Fahey (Drums, Juul Master), Maiya Campbell (Lead Guitar, Backing Aux), and Jacob Hite (Bass, Producer)
Witch Culture – “You”
Witch Culture is a rock band based out of Nashville. Their music can best be described as intimate and emotional, yet energetic. “You” was released on released June 10, 2022 and the band includes Dan McGarr (Vocals/ Guitars), Aaron Messina (guitar), Joe Moran (bass), and Ryan Bedlack (drums)
Inclusion Festival returns for 2022, from July 15-17 at Kempton Fairgrounds in Kempton, PA with daily programming from 11am to 11pm. The festival features various activities, music, workshops, camping and art, which are accessible experience for all ages and abilities.
Inclusion Festival
Debuted in 2018, Inclusion Festival became the nation’s first festival designed to accommodate disabled people. Since then, the festival has grown to spread inclusion as a state of mind through year-round events, experiences, consultation and training, as well as an online magazine. This year’s festival will offer virtual components to increase accessibility for those unable to attend the live event.
Inclusion Festival (credit to Wendy Dolof)
Presented by the non-profit Accessible Festivals and proudly supported by Rex Foundation and Mimi Fishman Foundation, Inclusion Festival offers sensory-friendly live music, a wide variety of educational and recreational workshops, camping, collaborative art, relaxation areas, a community resource fair, and more, all presented in an environment designed to be accessible for all.
This year’s lineup includes The Mantras, a Greensboro-born rock band, Yam Yam, a vibrant band from Harrisburg, PA, NYC-based award-winning blind recording artist and advocate Lachi, funky Philadelphia brass band Snacktime featuring disabled musician Ryan Gilfillian, and many more.
All donations received from the event will directly benefit the non-profit organization Accessible Festivals, dedicated to making communities stronger by ensuring music and recreation is accessible to all abilities.
To purchase tickets, donate, or get involved, visit inclusionfestival.com.
New York City folk-pop trio, Morningsiders, release their newest album, I’ve Got A Song on June 17. Known for their unique style of indie music, this album encompasses a set of their latest quirky tunes. Their sound is often described as music that bridges the gap between virtuosic, intimate live moments and gorgeously atmospheric studio-produced pop.
The Morningsiders are NYC-based, having met and formed at Columbia University. The band is comprised of Magnus Ferguson (vocals/guitar), Reid Jenkins (fiddle/vocals), and Robert Frech (piano).
The band has evolved from an Americana-collective into today’s guitar-fiddle-piano trio more focused on song craft and production. Originally, the band was comprised of rotating members and improvisatory performances.
Morningsiders had first made a name for themselves on a national level when their song “Empress” went viral, topping Spotify’s Viral 50 in 2015. Shortly after, they ended but being featured in a Starbucks commercial featuring Oprah Winfrey. “Empress” now has over 44 million streams on Spotify to this day.
Songs like “Hang the Cedar” and “Bowery Ballroom” have an emotional yet upbeat melody, with pop-punk highlights. The lyrics are heartfelt and gentle, making us reminisce about a past or current relationship.
This album has quite a few gentle melodies, “This Could Be Good” has a beautiful guitar riff with motivating yet gentle lyrics. Yet, “Four Faced Liar” pokes at our heartstrings with a beautiful symphony and chorus.
Currently, the trio are set to expand their popularity using their quirky sonic maneuvering, while still retaining the moments of brilliant musicianship. I’ve Got A Song encompasses this new style overall, making it an easy hit.
Overall, “I’ve Got A Song” encompasses a gentle yet pop-punk side to the Morningsiders. They have evolved from an Americana-collective into today’s incredible guitar-fiddle-piano trio, you won’t want to miss out on this new album.
To download I’ve Got A Song, click the link here and watch “Hang The Cedar” below.
