NYS Music 202​2

Category: Genres

  • MSG Entertainment Announces “Summer of Live”

    As we saunter auspiciously into the sunny season, New Yorkers will be hoping for another memorable summer. In light, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment), has released its list of events between all of their MSG affiliated venues. 2022’s “Summer of Live” presentation will be split between Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre and Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, as there will be more than 75 live entertainment events from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

    Embed from Getty Images

    “Summer of Live” kicked-off with a performance from, The Who, on May 26 at Madison Square Garden. A quick turnaround between the 27-29 saw the Harvard Athletic Complex play host to the Boston Calling Music Festival this Memorial Day Weekend. There, fans got the chance to rock out with headliners Nine Inch Nails, The Strokes and Metallica.

    From there, MSG Entertainment brings the heat with a jam-packed line up of events at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre and Hulu Theater at MSG. From concerts and comedy, to professional darts and boxing, marquee performances will include Lil Baby and Chris Brown on July 22 as part of their “One of Them Ones Tour.” MSG Entertainment will also be host to two Top Rank Boxing fights on June 11 and 18. While popular podcasts, Pod Save America and My Dad Wrote A Porno will also grace the Beacon Theatre stage.

    The complete schedule to MSG Entertainment’s upcoming shows schedule can be found below. Tickets to upcoming summer performances are available now on the MSG website.

    May 26 at 7:30PMMadison Square GardenThe Who “Hit’s Back! 2022 Tour” – Tickets start at $97.00
    May 27-29Harvard Athletic Complex
    (Allston, MA)    		Boston Calling Music Festival – Single day admission tickets start at $149.99 with two-day and three-day packages also still available
    June 2 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatrePod Save America “(A)live And On Tour 2022” – Tickets start at $49.50
    June 3 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreGipsy Kings – Tickets start at $80.00
    June 3 at 7:00PM
    June 4 at 1:00PM & 7:30PM    		Hulu Theater at MSGWorld Series of Darts: Bet365 North American Darts Championship – Two-day event with single session tickets starting at $30.00
    June 4 at 7:00PM & 9:45PMBeacon TheatreNate Bargatze “The Raincheck Tour” – Limited tickets for the late show starting at $39.75; early show sold out
    June 8 at 2:00PMHulu Theater at MSGBeat the Streets Wrestling Presents Final X New York – Tickets start at $65.00
    June 9 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreTribeca Festival Presents “Taurus” – Tickets start at $46.00
    June 10 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreTribeca Festival Presents “the DOC” – Tickets start at $46.00
    June 11 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreTribeca Festival Presents “Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby” – Tickets start at $46.00
    June 11 at 6:00PMHulu Theater at MSGTop Rank Boxing: Berlanga v Angulo – Tickets start at $66.00
    June 16 & 17 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreSigur Ros: World Tour 2022 – Two shows with limited tickets still available starting at $125.50
    June 17 at 9:00PMHulu Theater at MSGHombres G – Tickets start at $75.00
    June 18 at 6:00PMHulu Theater at MSGTop Rank Boxing: Artur Beterbiev vs. Joe Smith Jr. – Tickets start at $56.00
    June 23-25 at 8:00PMMadison Square GardenJohn Mulaney “From Scratch” tour – Three shows with limited tickets available starting at $69.50
    June 24 & 25 at 8:00PMRadio City Music HallGoose – Two nights with limited tickets still available on 6/24, starting at $39.50
    June 30 at 8:00PMRadio City Music HallMy Dad Wrote A Por.no World Tour – Tickets start at $51.75
    July 9 at 7:30PMHulu Theater at MSGTOMORROW X TOGETHER “<ACT: LOVE SICK>” tour – Tickets start at $75.00
    July 9 at 8:00PMRadio City Music HallCHEER Live – Tickets start at $79.95
    July 21-25 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreWidespread Panic – Five shows with tickets starting at $49.50
    July 22 at 7:00PMMadison Square GardenChris Brown & Lil Baby “One of Them Ones Tour” – Tickets start at $69.50
    July 26, 27, 29 & 30 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreAn Evening with Jackson Browne – Four shows with tickets starting at $39.50
    July 27 at 7:00PMRadio City Music HallBANKS “Serpentina Tour” – Tickets starting at $39.50
    July 28 at 8:00PMRadio City Music HallRuPaul’s Drag Race “Werq The World Tour” – Tickets start at $45.00
    July 30 at 8:00PMHulu Theater at MSGCarin Leon – Tickets start at $75.00
    July 31 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreHanson “Red Green Blue 2022 Tour” – Tickets start at $39.50
    Aug. 2-3 at 8:00PMMadison Square GardenSwedish House Mafia “Paradise Again Tour” – Two nights with tickets starting at $59.50
    Aug. 8-12 & 14 at 8:00PMMadison Square GardenRage Against the Machine “Public Service Announcement” tour with Run The Jewels – Six shows with limited tickets still available starting at $125.00
    Aug. 18 at 8:00PMMadison Square GardenAn Evening with Michael Bublé – Tickets start at $131.00
    Aug. 21 at 7:00PMBeacon TheatreGilberto Santa Rosa’s Birthday Bash! – Tickets start at $65.50
    Aug. 27 at 7:00PMBeacon TheatreCeleste Barber “Fine, Thanks. Live Tour” – Tickets start at $54.50
    Aug. 30 at 8:00PMBeacon TheatreSoft Cell – Tickets start at $49.50
    Aug. 30 & 31 at 8:00PMMadison Square GardenRoger Waters “This Is Not A Drill” – Tickets start at $70.00

  • Tupper Arts Hosts Free Music on Monday and Wednesday Nights all Summer in Tupper Lake

    Each summer in the Adirondacks there is an abundance of music series in the towns and villages that dot the Adirondack Park. One of those towns, Tupper Lake, features two free music series on Monday and Wednesday evenings throughout the summer, if you are able to escape to this remote outpost in the Adirondacks.

    tupper lake summer

    Tupper Lake is located in Franklin County, located within the Adirondack Park. Tupper Lake makes up the Tri-Lakes region along with nearby Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. The village was first settled during the town’s lumber production period in 1844, making the village the top lumber producer in New York State.

    Since 1976, Tupper Lake has been celebrating its artists and artisans that make up the small community. Before Tupper Arts, there was the Tupper Lake Arts Council, then named Tupper Lake Presents. Throughout the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, the Arts Council continued strong, most notably starting the annual tradition that is the Tupper Lake Arts Show, now entering its 49th year.

    tupper lake summer

    In 2018, current Tupper Arts Vice President Louise McNally headed the planning to re-establish the Arts Council as the community entity it is today. Along with 11 board members, the Arts Council was saved and renamed as Tupper Arts and incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization to allow for the collection of donations to start strengthening the arts involvement in Tupper Lake. Tupper Arts has grown and set up a tradition of year-round programming to involve the community and provide easy access to the arts, through gallery shows, classes for all ages, live performances, and community events.

    The Tupper Lake Municipal Park is located on Demars Boulevard off Route 3. This park is the center of the Tupper Lake community. The park is home to the best sunset views, a waterfront walkway, picnic table area, two covered fishing overlooks, public boat slips, playground, sports fields, skateboard park, and much more.

    tupper lake summer

    All summer hows at Tupper Lake Municipal Park are FREE, with shows starting at various times, and ending by 8:45pm (9pm on the 4th of July only).

    Tupper Lake Monday Summer Sunset Series Lineup

    July 4 – Night School & Spring Street

    Night School is a five piece dance-rock band from Tupper Lake, performing some of the most popular dance hits from yesteryear and today, everything from The Beatles to Talking Heads, from Rick James to The B-52’s. Spring Street is a unique mix of old and new rock, blues and strong vocal harmonies make Spring Street a must-see when visiting the Tri-Lakes area.

    Hours: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Night School, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Spring Street

    ​July 11 – Ursa and the Major Key

    Ursa and the Major Key is an indie/psychedelic rock band from Plattsburgh, NY. Their first album, Daytime/Nighttime, is out now on Cricket Records. Originating from the scenic Adirondack region of New York State, the foursome infuse influences from classic artists including The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, and The Band, as well as modern artists like Whitney, Beach Fossils, and Levitation Room.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    Ursa 1.JPG

    July 18 – Geo Beat

    Geo Beat Quartet celebrates musical traditions ranging from Jazz and Bossa Nova to World Beat with a few pop standards and original compositions. Crispin Catricala leads the group on guitar, Dave Casner plays Vibes, Michael Hurt is on Bass and Percussion Master Brian Melick rounds out the ensemble with a variety of instruments to bring infectious grooves and harmonious melodies to the stage.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    tupper lake summer

    July 25 – Darkside Skinny Dippers

    Darkside Skinny Dippers, often known more affectionately as the world’s greatest hashtag #DSKINNYD, evolved into a ferocious rock band that defined the course of music history in the late 70’s into the mid 80’s. Recommended by 0 out of 10 doctors, the band all but guarantees a baby boom that would rival the mid 40’s-mid 60’s. In short, #DSKINNYD is best described as diverse rock and roll with attitude! There’s a little something for everyone.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. 

    tupper lake summer

    August 1 – Shakespeare in the Park: Midsummer Night’s Dream

    The Adirondack Lakes Summer Theatre Festival returns with an abridged A Midsummer Night’s Dream A family-friendly production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream will feature all the beloved characters of the play, including the Royals, the Rustics, the Lovers, and, of course, the Fairies. This abridged version, directed by Karen Lordi-Kirkham, will run between an hour and fifteen minutes and an hour and a half and takes place outdoors.

    Featuring: Mason Barber as Nick Bottom; Jadzia Briggs, Angeliq Hammie, Kirsten Denis, and Dante Giacovelli as the Lovers; George Cordes, Fred Balzac, Dave Myers, and Monica Bills as the Rustics; Mike Corey as Egeus/Philostrate; and Karen, Ted, Christabelle, and Felonica Kirkham as the Royals and Fairies.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    tupper lake summer

    August 8 – Martin and Kelly

    The incredibly talented duo of Jilly Martin and Ryan Brooks Kelly have become the next must-see act from New England to Nashville. Over the years, they’ve been featured as support acts for many traditional, and mainstream country artists. Standouts in today’s crossover country music scene, Jilly & Ryan’s songs bridge the boundary between traditional and new country.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 15 – The Big Takeover

    Fronted by the charismatic Jamaican-born singer and songwriter Nee Nee Rushie, the seven-piece New York band The Big Takeover plays original music that is rooted in and reverent toward the genres and rhythms of Jamaican pop: reggae, rocksteady, ska. They are devotees of Desmond Dekker and the way the old school did it. At the same time, The Big Takeover crosses lines and blends traditions like global pop fusionists. Their deceptively complex arrangements and big hooks connect with the spirit of Motown and the uptown sophistication of the 21st century retro soul and R&B revival scene.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 22 – The Bob Stump Band

    Bob Stump and his band feature a collection of Americana sounds, including a mix of Bluegrass, blues, country, rock and jazz. Hudson Valley-based, Bob enjoys making his way around the North Country, sharing stories through his music.​

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    bob Stump Bluegrass Picture .jpg

    Tupper Lake Wednesday Summer Sunset Series

    July 6 – On 3

    ​On 3 is the partnering of Jim Boucher, Eric Pasternak, and Josh Pratt. Their music consists of 70’s and 80’s, up to some modern covers, highlighting harmonies, guitars, mandolin, ukulele, and percussion.​

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 13 – The Altered Tones

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 20 – Larry Lee Ebere

    Popular Chazy-born country singer Larry Lee Ebere got his musical start singing with his family at a young age. He has since been traveling and singing for 25 years, and notably placed 16th in the Nashville Talent Competition, and was also featured in Country Living.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 27 – Claire & Mickey

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Army Band

    Location: Tupper Lake Sunset Stage, Flanders Park, Tupper Lake

    August 3 – Crackin’ Foxy

    Crackin’ Foxy is a ukulele-driven ensemble featuring close vocal harmony and tight instrumental arrangements. The Saranac Lake—based quintet is inspired by Traditional New Orleans Jazz but plays with a fresh and joyful energy all its own. Influences include the Boswell Sisters, Anette Hanshaw, and Django Reinhardt as well as Vaudeville and Hawaiian music of the early 20th century.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 10 – TBA

    August 17 – The Rustic Riders

    The Rustic Riders “songs are bouncy and danceable and carry a loving message. A little bit of percussion and a variety of instruments keep things fresh, and they’re really good at getting the crowd laughing and singing-along.”  Sarah Craig, Caffe Lena Executive Director

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Army Band

    August 24 – Blessid Dirt

    Tereson Dupuy and Eric Pasternak make up this beautiful, Adirondack grown acoustic duo called Blessid Dirt. Both singer-songwriters, their original music is ripe with life experiences most can relate to. Classified as heavy-folk, they have been influenced by greats such as John Prine and Led Zepplin alike.  Eric, a native New Yorker, dazzles listeners with some wicked dirty strings and brilliant lyrical balance. While Tereson, a transplant from New Orleans, adds a bit of soulful Southern charm making this duo something to be experienced.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 29 – TBA

  • Peach Fest Unviels Daily Lineup, Individual Ticket Sales

    The daily lineup for the 10th anniversary Peach Music Fest has been released, with a lineup that makes this installment head and shoulders above past years.

    The four-day live music and camping experience returns to Montage Mountain in Scranton, PA, from Thursday, June 30 through Sunday, July 3.

    peach fest lineup

    The Peach Music Festival began in 2012 as the first-ever Allman Brothers Band-inspired festival in the Northeast and quickly evolved into one of the most highly-anticipated summer musical events loved by music enthusiasts from across the nation.

    To celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Peach Music Festival, Trey Anastasio Band and The Black Crowes will headline The Festival, and be joined by Billy Strings, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Goose, the Revivalists, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and the reunion of The Word. 

    Additionally, Trouble No More, featuring Brandon “Taz” Niederaurer (Guitar, Vocals), Daniel Donato (Guitar, Vocals), Dylan Niederaurer (Bass Guitar), Jack Ryan (Drums), Lamar Williams Jr. (Vocals), Nikki Glaspie (Drums), Peter Levin (Keys) and Roosevelt Collier (Pedal Steel Guitar), will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Festival’s founders, the Allman Brothers Band’s seminal “Eat A Peach” album.

    The Peach Music Festival, which was inspired by the legendary music of the Allman Brothers Band, will feature founding member Jaimoe with Jaimoe and Friends, as well as Friends of the Brothers, and Brother & Sister (featuring Butch’s kids, Melody and Vaylor). 

    Thursday, June 30

    Billy Strings, Trouble No More: Performing Eat A Peach, Keller Williams, Samantha Fish, Midnight North, Yam Yam, Consider the Source, JD Simo, Miss Mojo, Carly Moffett, and Tand Band.

    Friday, July 1

    Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, Steel Pulse, Andy Frasco & the U.N., Eric Krasno & the Assembly, the Motet, Marco Benevento, the Bogie Band featuring Joe Russo, Lacuna featuring Tom Hamilton & Holly Bowling, Doom Flamingo, Kitchen Dwellers, The Nth Power featuring Jennfier Hartswick, Funk You, Eggy, Little Stranger, Brother & Sister, Snacktime, Wax Owls, Gabriel Kelly, Evanoff, and the Jauntee.

    Saturday, July 2

    Trey Anastasio Band, Goose, the Revivalists, Ripe, Rayland Baxter, Celisse, Karina Rykman, Jaimoe and Friends, Brandon “Taz” Niederauer and Friends, the Shady Recruits, Neighbor, Melt, Cordovas, Friends of the Brothers, Cycles, One Time Weekend, Pixie & the Partygrass Boys, Chalk Dinosaur, Dry Reef, JB Strauss, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, and Muskrat Lightning.

    Sunday, July 3

    The Black Crowes, the Word featuring Robert Randolph, John Medeski, Luther Dickinson, Cody Dickinson, and Ray Ray Holloman, G. Love & the Juice, the Wailers, Duane Betts, Star Kitchen, Spaga, Tauk, Dogs In A Pile, Maggie Rose, Daniel Donato &. Friends, Hannah Wicklund, the Wild Feathers, Bobby Lee Rodgers, Sicard Hollow, GA-20, and Great Time. 

    The VIP sets, performed exclusively to VIP ticket holders in the “Midland” above the water park with firepits, a bar, and concession stands, will feature Andy Frasco’s World Saving Podcast with special guests, Brandon “Taz” Niederauer with Kanika, the Cordovas performing an acoustic set, Daniel Donato, Dogs In A Pile, Duane Betts, Karina Rykman performing a DJ set, Kitchen Dwellers, and Maggie Rose.

    In addition to the four days of live music with over 50 artists, this one-of-a-kind experience features food and craft vendors on the grounds and access to the scenic Montage Mountain Ski Resort’s large water park, zip line and ski lift rides. 

    The 10th-anniversary celebration of The Peach Music Festival will conclude with a spectacular Independence Day Weekend fireworks display on Sunday, July 3.

    To purchase VIP tickets, ticket packages, reserve travel packages, camping, glamping tent, RV passes, and individual tickets, or for the most up-to-date information on the Peach Music Festival, including additional artist announcements, visit ThePeachMusicFestival.com.

  • New York Guitar Festival Announces 2022 Lineup Featuring Bill Frisell, Vernon Reid, and More

    The New York Guitar Festival is back with in-person performances after two years of being streamed online. The shows will be held in The Greene Space, WNYC’s multimedia performance venue in Soho from June 14 to 17. Featured performers include Bill Frisell, Vernon Reid, and more.

    New York Guitar Festival

    The festival was founded in 1999 by  David Spelman, the Artistic Director of the festival, and WNYC’s John Schaefer, host of the “New Sounds” radio series. The main focus of the festival is the use of the guitar, and how it is in many different genres of music.

    New York Guitar Festival Lineup

    June 14 at 7:30 P.M.- Glenn Jones and Vieux Farka Toure

    Glenn Jones has a background in rock and experimental music but is best known for keeping the flame of “American Primitive” music alive, which is a folk-based style. Jones’s music is full of unexpected textures through his uses of capos, half-capos, and a variety of tunings. Vieux Farka Toure is known as “the Hendrix of the Sahara,” with roots in playing West African music. He has released five solo albums rooted in the sounds and rhythms of West African blues.

    New York Guitar Festival
    New York Guitar Festival

    June 15 at 7:30 P.M.- Gyan Riley, Bill Frisell, & Luke Bergman.

    Gyan Riley started his career playing with his father’s band Terry Riley and The All-Stars. Now, he works with Grammy-award-winning artists and plays different genres, from classical to spacey electric guitar excursions. Bill Frisell is regarded as one of the best guitarists of our time, and he is the subject of a new biography called Bill Frisell: Beautiful Dreamer. Luke Bergman is part of Bill Frisell’s Harmony Quartet and is a bassist, guitarist, and pedal steel player.

    New York Guitar Festival
    New York Guitar Festival

    June 16 at 7:30 P.M.- Badi Assad, Vernon Reid, & Laraaji

    Badi Assad is a guitarist, singer, and percussionist who also uses the guitar as a percussion instrument. She was the co-curator of the 2014 edition of the New York Guitar Festival. Badi is also the younger sister of the great Brazilian guitar duo of Sergio & Odair Assad. Vernon Reid is one of Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time. He gained fame as the main songwriter for the rock band Living Colour, and as a founder of the Black Rock Coalition. Laraaji has recently performed as a duo with Vernon Reid and is an ambient zither player,

    Vernon Reid

    June 17 at 7:30 P.M.- Marta Pereira da Costa and William Tyler

    Marta Pereira da Costa plays Portuguese fado music and writes her own music and collaborates with other musicians. She is among the few women playing this type of music, as it is mostly dominated by men. William Tyler is a folk, indie, country, and electronic music artist. His work offers a gothic, often celestial take on American roots music.

    For more information about the festival, go here.

  • King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard Return to Rochester, Revive Water Street Music Hall

    Aussie psych-mavens King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard last played in Rochester almost exactly seven years ago, a half-full affair at the Bug Jar. Since then, they have put out an astounding 14 albums. In those same seven years, Water Street Music Hall, their venue of choice on their return to town Tuesday night, has been closed and opened under different names multiple times before finding it’s way back once again to Water Street Music Hall. This show sold out hours after going on sale and anticipation has been building ever since.

    king gizzard and the lizard wizard

    The line to get into the show stretched the full length of Water Street. Once inside, the sold-out crowd was bounding with potential energy, a powder keg waiting to be lit. Every test by every roadie for every instrument and every light and video screen was met with screams of excitement in the lead-up to the band’s arrival. “Gizzard” chants started, stopped, and started again.

    Opening with “The Dripping Tap,” an 18 minute epic off of their just out Omnium Gatherum, the sextet quickly erupted into their frenetic guitar-heavy signature. The fireballs of energy shooting off the stage set the crowd afire. Everyone was bouncing off the floor, bouncing off each other and bouncing off the walls. It was kinetic.

    king gizzard and the lizard wizard

    A screen on stage displayed colorful and glitchy animations that perfectly matched the bonkers activity of the musicians in front of it. The wild off-kilter lyrics, the everything all at once onslaught of sound, spasms of motion and color. Senses were sated, the audience transported.

    King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard smashed jams from no less than nine of their 20 albums into two near non-stop hours of energetic rock. Songs flowed effortlessly in and out of each other. Guitars, bass, harmonica, keys, electronics, flute and whoops and screams wove a thick mesh of sound that blanketed the vast music hall. Drummer Michael Cavanagh inhumanly kept the pace throughout, a gong seeming to serve as a protective shield for most of the night until it was finally crashed in a late set “Straws in the Wind.”

    The band and the crowd running on fumes, King Gizzard slammed on the accelerator one last time, closing out the night with one of their more recognizable and more frantic tunes, “Rattlesnake.” There was still enough left in the tank, the crowd revved the energy back up to a fever pitch one last time.

    Water Street Music Hall has been an important piece of the Rochester live music scene for decades. From the show announcement to the final notes of the show, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard helped revive the venue to it’s former glory. A sellout show that won’t soon be forgotten.

  • Rachel Bard Releases New Single “The Buildings Are Fake”

    NYC-based singer-songwriter Rachel Bard has released a new track, “The Buildings Are Fake,” her third song to be put on streaming services.

    Having written it in 2018 after visiting Los Angeles as a first year film student, the track “is a heartbreak song about the City of Angels.”

    A greyscale image of a television featuring on screen a vague image of a beach with a palm tree.
    Cover art for “The Buildings Are Fake.”

    Produced by Brian McTear and Amy Morrissey, the song takes a stripped down garage rock approach. Almost Pixies-like it sets a nice quiet-loud contrast between its imagery-driven verses and disillusioned, anthemic choruses as the track builds towards a loud finish.

    As for Bard’s vocal performance, comparisons that ring strongly include Nico and Dan Bejar of Destroyer. Her gloomy, vibrato-laden delivery faithfully match the song’s cynicism and rise to meet the track’s energy during louder moments.

    In “The Buildings Are Fake,” Bard is quite visual in how she delivers her ideas. During the verses she muses about pushing “through crowds of teardrops and sunscreen” and “watching the stars all over the floor,” picturesquely reflecting the excited curiosity of a young film student.

    It’s all for nought however. “The buildings are fake, and so is your job,” Bard shouts on the hook, comparing the glamorous facade of Los Angeles and the artificial nature of movie sets to that of a dishonest romantic partner, enforcing the track’s general sense of disappointment.

    While Rachel Bard doesn’t stray from being artsy and metaphorical in “The Buildings Are Fake,” its message never fails to be clear. This air of let down and heartbreak is conveyed in full articulation over a solid slacker-rock backdrop, making for a fine new addition to Rachel Bard’s resume.

  • Knotfest Roadshow plows through Albany at MVP Arena

    On Tuesday May 24th 2022, MVP arena in Albany hosted Knotfest Roadshow, featuring Slipknot and Cypress Hill with Ho99o9 (Horror) as the opening act. Slipknot is currently on leg two of their roadshow that runs until June 18th in the USA. Slipknot is an American heavy metal band formed in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995. This show marked 12 years since the passing of their original bassist Paul Grey on May 24th 2010.

    Large welcome sign inside the front doors of MVP Arena. Photo credit- Mike Miller

    Slipknot played many of their hits including Wait and Bleed, Psychosocial, Duality and Spit it out. Throughout the show Slipknot used pyrotechnics, many flame throwers and use of special effect lighting that was blinding at times to people in the front. The crowd in the front rows could feel the heat radiating from the flames bursting in the air. Crowd surfing and mosh pits were expected but their Albany fans brought more energy and raw emotion to the floor than other cities have their singer Corey Taylor said. Security was on point and ready to respond to any issues that arose and escorted any crowd surfers back to the floor section very quickly.

    The fans against the barricade. Photo credit Mike Miller

    To keep their look fresh, Slipknot has new masks this year. Their image is always changing slightly to stay aligned with their new music. They are expected to release their seventh album sometime this year. There was also VIP tickets for sale that included a walk through the Slipknot traveling “Museum”. It featured instruments of band members, and prior masks used, fans could view and interact with. New York hosted Knotfest Roadshow multiple last year in Syracuse and Darien Lake.

    Singer Corey Taylor. Photo Credit- Mike Miller

    Setlist: Disasterpiece, Wait and Bleed, All Our Life, Sulfer. Before O Forget, The Chapeltown Bag, Dead Memories. Unsainted, The Heretic Anthem, Psychosocial, The Devil and I, Snuff, Vermillion, Duality, Spit it out, People = Sh*t, Surfacing.

  • Primus Tributes Prog-Rock Legends at The Cap

    It’s been almost seven long years since Rush played what would become their final NY Metro area shows at Prudential Center in NJ and Madison Square Garden in NYC as part of their 40th anniversary tour. The talent of the trio – Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and the late Neil Peart – has left remarkable influences on many musicians touring today. Primus has been on the road performing their own songs as well as an entire set dedicated to performing Rush’s A Farewell to Kings in its entirety; the tour appropriately billed as “A Tribute To Kings.” A few of those recent stops were in Albany and this past weekend, The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. Check out our coverage of Primus’ Albany show here.

    NYC-based duo Battles, who formed back in 2002, put on an intriguing opening set as an excellent compliment to the rest of the evening. In some ways, the duo seemed like a live performance of a DJ, minus the turntables. Using samples, they crafted remixes and improvised jams on guitar, synths, and drums, and certainly held the attention of The Cap.

    Primus took to the stage to the immediate delight of the full house crowd (which seemed to be nearly sold out at a quick glance of the room). Les CLaypool’s driving bass sound led a signature role through the first set as the band navigated through their repertoire, including the recently crafted ode to Volodomyr Zelensky, “The Man With The Iron Balls.” Proceeds from sales of that song, when released April 2022 went to benefit non-profit organization Nova Ukraine.

    Donning bit of the spacey glam garb as a nod to 1978, Primus returned for the second set to perform Rush’s A Farewell to Kings in its entirety. The anticipation for this moment of the show was visible even before entering The Cap; the sheer number of Rush album and tour t-shirts in the crowd might make one wonder if they were actually at a Rush fan convention. But in fairness, for the loyal Rush fans it certainly felt that way.

    Claypool noted his experience attending a Rush concert in his younger years, looking up to Geddy Lee as a tremendous influence and dreaming about someday playing bass on stage. Almost note for note, Primus recreated the album with remarkable precision to dynamics, tone and style, although Claypool joked about how difficult it was to mimic Geddy Lee’s high octave range (which he pulled off the few instances where he reached for that range).

    Rounding out the night, Primus returned for an extended encore to dive back into their own songs.

    Primus – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester – May 20, 2022

    Set 1: Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers, Lacquer Head, Groundhog’s Day, Polka Dot Rose, American Life, HOINFODAMAN, Conspiranoia, Professor Nutbutter’s House of Treats, Hamburger Train, Harold of the Rocks, The Man With the Iron Balls

    Set 2: (A Farewell to Kings): A Farewell to Kings, Xanadu, Closer to the Heart, Cinderella Man, Madrigal, Cygnus X-1

    Encore: On the Tweek Again, Over the Electric Grapevine, Jerry Was a Race Car Driver, Tommy the Cat, Follow the Fool

  • New York Series: The Story Behind “City of Gods”

    The longevity of the hip hop era has yet to cease. Its influence within the music industry, as well as the significant role it plays in cultural shifts worldwide is ever-growing. With the help of stellar records, powerful performances, captivating music videos and the puissant storytelling, hip hop has become engrained in everyday life, down to basic communication. Over decades it has been fragmented into sub-genres with its origins deriving globally, with one of the most bodacious being drill music. It may have first originated from Southside Chicago, but nonetheless has extensively embedded itself within the rap game forever.

    City of Gods
    Kid Flvsh

    This sub-genre of music began in the early 2010s and was pioneered by the notable, King Louie and Chief Keef. Nonetheless, drill has yet to falter, as it has grown from underground to mainstream music, preeminently within New York and the United Kingdom. Every drill song has a storyline, centered around gun violence, disses, and gang culture which touch upon the realities of surviving the streets. Its raw nature is what also connected people, as well as led rappers from a life of poverty, a higher degree of institutionalized racism, and crime within the hood, to a better life with riches and fame. After consummating such accomplishments, many take on the role of the hero within their hometowns and devote their time, as well as their money to giving back.

    Fivio Foreign, Alicia Keys, and Ye, also known as Kanye West, are the three prominent artists who collaborated to create the timeless song, “City of Gods”. Considering the trio’s hometowns are New York City and Chicago, the cultures from both were intertwined to perfection.

    In an interview with DJ Clue on 105.1, Foreign compared his song with another credible record by Keys and Jay Z, “Empire State of Mind”, which is a New York classic. The idea for “City of Gods” was first established by none other than musical genius Ye. When Foreign first received the beat, it was a sample from The Chainsmokers’ 2015 song, “New York City“. Soon after creating his verse, he shared everything with Ye, who then envisioned a new path for it. Ye not only mixed up the beat, but also encouraged the drill rapper to alter some of his lyrics to further reinforce his message. After adding in his own verse, the only thing missing was the chorus and Ye knew undoubtedly, the one person who could tie this masterpiece together was Keys.

    At first I had said ‘ain’t no King of New York, nobody really in charge’ and Ye like ‘yo you gotta say you the King of New York, you the one that’s in charge.’

    Fivio Foreign

    Not only did Foreign tribute “City of Gods” to New York City, especially his hometown of Brooklyn, but he dedicated it to his friend and fellow drill rapper, TDott Woo, who was fatally shot soon before the record was released. This tragedy is a prime example of the message behind the passionate lyrics, “New York City please go easy on me tonight. New York City please go easy on this heart of mine.” These are more than just lyrics for another hit song but are words that electrify the hearts of so many who experience the same livelihood of violence and crime within their neighborhood.

    Kid Flvsh’s vision, for the cover art of “City of Gods”, was to make a statement with the vibe of New York City, as well as all of the emotions from the song. The drawing is in honor of TDott Woo who mirrored what drill is all about.

    According to Foreign, “City of Gods” is what New York sounds like. Therefore, within his second verse he mentions three iconic dances within the Black community that originated from fellow Brooklyn rappers. Foreign paid homage to 2 Milly with the Milly Rock, Bobby Shmurda with the Shmoney Dance, and Pop Smoke with the Woo Walk.

    “City of Gods” is a biblical term that refers to Heaven, which is why Foreign chose it to represent the city that means the absolute world to him. Additionally, the drill rapper shares this nostalgia with New York City natives, Nas, and Jay Z, who are viewed as “gods” within the world of hip hop. All-embracing, Foreign knows the massive impact his city holds, regarding the rap legends it birthed.

    Throughout the record, Foreign continued to shed light on how much he appreciates love from his city and is always considering ways to improve its livelihood, especially for people of color. Nonetheless, he spoke of its terrors and how to survive them, which correlates to his album title B.I.B.L.E., Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.

    On Ye’s verse he mentions “It’s a Sunday Service in Brooklyn”, which refers to the time when him along with his gospel group, performed at DMX’s Memorial in Brooklyn. Sunday Service was recognized globally after their appearance at Coachella on Easter of 2019.

    Ye proceeds with a juxtaposition, “It’s the city that come with the lights. I’m with the drillers that come with the night.” The first line describes the city that never sleeps, specifically Brooklyn and how it is a city of light. However, the next line emphasizes how dark and gloomy it is at nighttime, considering all the violence that occurs. This topic is nothing new to Ye, as he once bared witness to the crimes of Chicago growing up.

    New Yorkers continuously support and respect Ye’s music, cultural influence, and commitment to his artistry. Resultantly, every chance Ye receives he praises New York, hence his reference to Frank Sinatra, “I feel like Sinatra in these streets.” Sinatra is accoladed with being one of the greatest musicians of the 1900s, which Ye compares to how the world views himself in this generation. Additionally, the 20th century singer once created a record in honor of the city, called “New York, New York“.

    I’m from the Chi but I’m always New York. In the city, they treat me like Jesus is walkin.

    Ye

    Although, many claim drill music to be detrimental to the culture and that it supports ongoing violence, Foreign is an advocate of the contrary. In fact, he firmly believes this style of music provides people with the freedom to express themselves and discuss what their ferocious world entails daily. Furthermore, rising to stardom, provides an opportunity for monetary gain, which leads to a better life and keeps more Black men off the streets. Notwithstanding this perspective, he discusses that many artists do not write their own lyrics, and according to Foreign, would make it unjust for laws to be used against them based on the messages relayed.

    As a respected voice of this generation, Foreign is currently planning to unify distinguished artists in support of one another to cultivate change. Those he mentioned who were already in agreement are Ye, Jay-Z, Dave East, 2 Chainz, Fabulous, Jim Jones and more. Moving forward, Foreign would love for younger artists to connect and take part in this brotherhood.

    Essentially, no matter how much recognition and fame Foreign receives worldwide, he knows that his home will always be right here in the “City of Gods”.

    “City of Gods” Lyrics

    New York City, please go easy on me tonight
    New York City, please go easy on this heart of mine

    Nigga, this my shit
    Welcome to the city of Gods
    Pop was the king of New York
    Now I’m the nigga in charge
    Only the drillers, the city is ours
    We found out the opps and we pick ’em apart
    I give ’em my time so I give ’em my heart
    If the city love me, then I’m really a star
    New York City, please go easy on me tonight
    New York City, please go easy on this heart of mine
    ‘Cause I’m losing my lover to the arms of another
    New York City, please go easy on me

    Yeah, look, this is the city of money and violence
    Everything we do is gon’ come with a challenge
    Every bitch you fuck is gon’ come with a balance
    Every shooter with me is coming in silence
    And you niggas better pick a side
    You niggas side hoppin’
    If I want ’em to not let you come into the city, it’s my option
    This is the home of the fly shoppin’
    This where the bitches gon’ watch pockets
    When I’m on TV, I gotta look good
    ‘Cause I know the whole block watchin’
    If you chill with the opps, we is not vibin’
    If I see ’em in person, we Fox 5 ’em
    Yeah, the police is on us, we not stoppin’
    (Yeah, the police is on us, we not stoppin’, nah)

    This is the town of the big drip (big drip), smooth talk (smooth talk, ha)
    Milly Rock (Milly Rock), Shmoney Dance (Shmoney Dance), Woo Walk (Woo)
    You will not survive being too soft
    Been a long time, we took a new loss
    Shooters shootin’ ’til we got a new corpse
    If we stop then we lettin’ it cool off

    New York City, please go easy on me tonight
    New York City, please go easy on this heart of mine
    ‘Cause I’m losing my lover to the arms of another
    New York City, please go easy on me

    We went off the grid
    We ain’t watch the throne, we took it
    We went viral on ’em, they lookin’
    It’s a Sunday Service in Brooklyn
    It’s the city that come with the lights
    I’m with the drillers that come with the night
    They ain’t do four years in college
    But they’ll do 25 to life

    We make money every night
    Never too big of a price
    After I buy the Chicago Bulls
    Imma go link with Mike
    And if I let ’em have my wife, niggas should thank me
    With this Balenciaga and Balenci’ boots and a new blue Yankee

    This is Ye, I’m so focused, throw on a mask, no COVID
    Imma turn your life to a meme, let Justin LaBoy post it
    You got an album? Postpone it
    I drop two and they both going
    I got a feeling they in they feelings
    They filmin’ a show, but won’t show it

    You gotta watch me in slow motion, I’m in that wide-body Benz
    I go back to college, do an album, and then drop out again
    Took me a minute to get here, my vision is crystal clear
    Ayy, Fivi’, excuse me, but this the feature of the year

    I feel like Sinatra in these streets
    Me and Drizzy, we at peace
    This the backpack with the Polo and the first Jesus piece
    I’m from the Chi’ but I’m always New York
    In the city, they treat me like Jesus is walkin’
    I been through the pain and all of the torment
    I’m sayin’ His name, I make that important

    Now it’s time to give ’em hell
    Ask my staff, I pay ’em well
    This afternoon, a hundred goons pullin’ up to SNL
    When I pull up, it’s dead on arrival
    They act like they love you, they don’t even like you
    They throw a party, won’t even invite you
    I seen the same thing happen to Michael

    You black and you rich, they sayin’ you psycho
    It’s like a cycle
    If you text me anything hype
    You better text back and say it’s a typo
    The city of Gods, no city is like you
    This the new New York, Ye is the GOAT
    Fivi’ is viral and this is the B.I.B.L.E.

    New York City, please go easy on me tonight
    New York City, please go easy on this heart of mine
    ‘Cause I’m losing my lover to the arms of another
    New York City, please go easy on me

    Don’t leave me, go easy, go easy, go easy
    Don’t leave me, go easy, go easy, go easy
    Don’t leave me, go easy, go easy, go easy

    New York City, please go easy on me

  • Chuck Garvey gives Health Update on First Episode of Podcrash

    Chuck Garvey shared a health update this week on Podcrash as he continues to recover from a stroke he suffered in November 2021. 

    chuck garvey podcrash

    A new podcast from the band, Podcrash features all members addressing all things moe. In the new episode, Harvey shared that he was first and foremost ‘getting some speech going on’ as the most important part of recovery. Garvey went on to say “I just wanted to talk. When I woke up I just wanted to see everyone that I’ve ever known.”

    It was great to see you guys, but I couldn’t say what I wanted to say so that was hard. Working on the speech is because I want to talk to everybody and now all the stuff … getting back on my feet was a big thing so I could get out of a chair was the next thing. And then the next thing was getting my hand to work so I could play.

    Chuck Garvey

    “Working on everything to get the fine motor skills on my hand is really big because I want to play again,” explained Chuck. “I want to play with the band. I want all the fun things that we can do with music is … I want to try that again.”

    Chuck Garvey will miss moe.’s upcoming shows this summer, including at Summer Camp Music Festival this weekend, with Suke Cerulo (Schleigho) and Nate Wilson (Assembly of Dust, Percy Hill) filling in. Discover how their recent Monkeys on Ecstasy show at Empire Underground in Albany unfolded.

    The full episode is now available via moe.org and all podcast services. Spotify | Apple | Google | Amazon 
    More info at moremusic.at/moespodcrash

    moe. 2022 Summer Tour
    Thurs, May 26 – Sun, May 29 – Chillicothe, IL – Summer Camp Music Fest
    Fri, June 10 – Norfolk, VA – HarborFest
    Sat, June 18 – Philadelphia, PA – City Bisco 2022
    Wed, July 6 – Albany, NY – Empire State Plaza Concert Series
    Thurs, July 7 – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Outer Harbor
    Fri, July 8 – Marshfield, MA – Levitate Music Festival
    Sat, July 9 – Patchogue, NY – Great South Bay Music Festival
    Sun, July 10 – Seaside Heights, NJ – Live at the Heights, The Beach Stage
    Fri, September 2 – Jay, VT – Jay Peak Resort
    Sat, September 3 – Sun, September 4 – Lake George, NY – Adirondack Music Festival^
    Fri, September 23 – Sat, September 24 – St. Helena, CA – Blue Note at the Charles Krug Winery

    ^ Official announcement and on-sale date TBD

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