NYS Music 202​2

Category: News

  • ‘Check In’ With MVW’s First Single from Upcoming Album, Featuring Matt Ox

    Michael Vincent Waller’s foray into the world of hip hop continues with his latest single, “Check In,” featuring teenage YouTube star and rapper, Matt Ox. The highly touted classical composer’s latest endeavor comes on the heels of his debut hip hop project, the Lex Luger assisted, CLASSIC$.

    MVW now recruits the frenetic Matt Ox, who has amassed tens of millions of views, with his breakout song “Overwhelming” amassing 31 million views. “Check In” will serve as promotion for MVW’s sophomore album, Connections. Continuing to draw on the parallels between his life as a composer and hip-hop producer.

    The theme of the upcoming project is entitled ‘Connections,’ MVW reveals.” “This first single channels that ethos of branching out into the hip hop landscape and making revelations through collaboration and furthermore, the title for the project was derived from a bar in [the song’s first verse], “I am way too connected, too many connections.

    Connections are what MVW has continued to foster, as he has developed working relationships with many talented acts like Atlanta-bred Lil Gotit and Good Music artist Valee. Jumping head-first into a new creative space, an invigorated MVW has churned out his second project in less than a year.

    Matt Ox, whose newer releases have seen him experiment with his vocal ranges, shows his versatility. On “Check In” he rhymes in a start & stop flow focusing on cadence and annotation. 

    As a producer MVW is equally parts free-wheeling and controlling. Preferring to give leeway on artistic freedom while focusing on the song’s structure and vocal tones on his beats. 

    Overall, Matt was given freedom to be inventive and true to his voice in the chorus and verse, but how the final arrangement and orchestration played out was very meticulous and true to the way I like to work on records that is starting to feel like a melodic signature for the music I’m working to produce and release into the world.

    MVW’s quest to explore classical sounds within the frame of contemporary trap sounds require a great attention to detail. On “Check In” Matt Ox’s enigmatic flow on eerily inviting loops are structured for rhythmic optimization and his pursuit has brought him, Connections. 

    The vocals could be considered more complex in their delivery and intonation than maybe appears on the surface, or from first listen. I think the more one sits with the material and marinates on how the vocals are arranged with the beat, the exact placement and timing in relation to the bars and feel of the cadence.

    MVW’s continues the road to Connections with another Matt Ox assisted single, also featuring Valee and 645AR releasing on April 22 and a spring/summer timetable set for the album.

  • Live Nation Announces Partnership With American Dream

    Live Nation has announced a multi-year partnership with American Dream, a preeminent entertainment and retail center located in East Rutherford, NJ, including exclusive live events and concerts.

    The main stage at American Dream will feature a series of concerts, as well as other unique experiences like fan-to-artist activations, pop-up shops, launch parties for new music releases and upcoming tours, and more. These will come to life throughout the venue, which has a theme park, the largest indoor one in the Western Hemisphere, Big SNOW, North America’s only indoor ski slope, The Rink, an NHL-regulation ice rink, and more.

    American Dream first event

    The first acts to perform in the concert series have been announced. Hip hop star Ludacris will perform on May 7, followed by rapper J.I. on June 17; DJs/producers Two Friends on June 18; rapper Lil Tjay on July 22; rapper Sheck Wes on August 13; and Japanese rock band Band-Maid on October 30.

    CEO of the venue Don Ghermezian spoke about the partnership.

    American Dream provides guests with experiences that can’t be found anywhere else, like the incredibly popular amusement park takeover concert series we’ve created. A partnership with Live Nation takes our property to a new level. The impact and value Live Nation brings as our content provider gives artists another unique platform to inspire their fans.

    The venue will feature upcoming Live Nation shows in the New Jersey-New York metropolitan area, and create opportunities around events at the neighboring MetLife Stadium featuring live performances and other fan engagement.

  • Proctors Collaborative Annouces Upcoming Shows For April

    Serving the community through the arts, Proctors Collaborative has announced their next block of upcoming shows at the historic Proctors in Schenectady. Since 1926, this unique theatre and educational program has presented the very best in entertainment for the Capital Region.

    Proctors Collaborative upcoming shows at Proctors in Schenectady

    Proctors Collaborative is an association of arts organizations located in three venues: Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga, Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, and Proctors in Schenectady. Overall, being one of the most expansive arts education programs in Upstate New York with programming in Albany, Schenectady Saratoga, and in schools throughout the Capital Region.  

    Over the past few decade, Proctors has expanded their venues. Doing so made it possible to accommodate large Broadway productions, giant screen films, local performers, and ever-growing audiences from around the country. Today, Proctors Collaborative is known for being the Capital Region’s destination for upcoming major Broadway shows, cutting-edge film festivals, exciting special events, and everything in between. 

    April Shows at Proctors

    Alton Brown Live: Beyond the Eats 

    7:30 p.m. Friday, April 8. MainStage at Proctors  

    Alton Brown is hitting the road with a new culinary variety show. Expect comedy, music, and potentially dangerous science. Prepare for an evening unlike any other and if Brown calls for volunteers… think twice.  

    Shen Yun 2022  

    7:30 p.m. Friday, April 15-16. 2 p.m. Saturday, April 16. MainStage at Proctors  

    Through breathtaking dance and music, Shen Yun’s artists tell of a time when divine beings walked upon the earth, leaving behind a culture that inspired generations.  

    GNA Secret Star  

    7 p.m. Wednesday, April 20. MainStage at Proctors  

    GNA’s Secret Star features four of country music’s biggest stars, on stage at the same time sharing their songs and stories. The lineup is not revealed until the show. 

    Gospel Jubilee  

    6 p.m. Saturday, April 23. MainStage at Proctors  

    Gospel Jubilee returns to the MainStage at Proctors with a special musical tribute in dedication to the Capital Region’s beloved, the late Regina “Gina” Parsons, and Antonia “Toni” Brown.  

    Suede with Fred Boyle, Piano & Rich Hill, Bass  

    7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 23. GE Theatre at Proctors  

    From astounding a cappella, incredibly intimate ballads and smoking trumpet solos to “bring down the house” belting blues, Suede delivers it all with her own unique blend of warmth, high energy, wit, and pure musical artistry.  

    Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards – “The Eddies”  

    6 p.m. Sunday, April 24. MainStage at Proctors  

    This year, we honor 210 finalists in 36 categories for their work during 2021. Nominations and voting are determined by a group of judges representing the local music community. The musical line-up for the 4th annual Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards will be Buggy Jive, Nite Train w/ Thomasina Winslow, Hot Club of Saratoga, Rich Ortiz, the Erin Harkes Band and Super 400 with returning emcee Erin Harkes. 

    An Evening with Neil Gaiman  

    7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 28. MainStage at Proctors  

    Neil Gaiman is the bestselling author of Neverwhere, Anansi Boys, Good Omens (with Terry Pratchett), Smoke and Mirrors, Fragile Things, and so many more. Today, as one of the most celebrated writers of our time, his popular and critically acclaimed works bend genres while reaching audiences of all ages.  

    Golden Oldies Spectacular  

    7 p.m. Saturday, April 20. MainStage at Proctors  

    Headlining the show is The Brooklyn Bridge, highlighted by a tribute to the memory of their incredible lead singer Johnny Maestro who passed ten years ago. Hits include “The Worst That Could Happen,” “Blessed is the Rain,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and “Welcome Me Love.” 

    Tickets are available online here, in person at the Box Office, or via phone at 518-346-6204 Monday-Friday 10am-6pm.

  • Gunna performs on Saturday Night Live

    Saturday Night Live returned on April 2 to address the Oscars slap and more, with host Jerrod Carmichael and musical guest, Gunna.

    gunna

    Weekend Update focused on ‘the slap’, noting it as a defining moment of television for the current generation, a mark in pop-culture time.

    Pete Davidson returned for the first time in three episodes with the music video “Short Ass Movie,” where he cited the need for movies with a runtime under 1 hour, 40 minutes. Joined by fellow cast member Chris Redd, Dirt Nasty (Simon Rex) and musical guest Gunna, the group explored the myraid of movies considered a quick watch.

    Gunna rapped “I’m not pushin P unless it’s under two hours/ Like Lion King or Bad Moms or all three Austin Powers.” Davidson took on A Beautiful Mind-style observation on the run times of Jurassic Park (2 hours, 7 minutes) and Sex and the City 2 (2 hours, 26 minutes), and even referencing a recent Instagram post from Davidson where friend Scott Diseck fell asleep during boys night.

    Gunna’s first song, “Banking on Me,” was released as a single on Valentine’s Day, originally planned to be on the deluxe edition of his third studio album, DS4Ever, his second consecutive number one album, released in January and featuring guest appearances from 21 Savage, Drake, Kodak Black and more.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW_miq1-SXQ

    For his second performance, Gunna was joined by Future for “pushin P,” a phrase meaning to ‘push positivity.’ On DSM4Ever, the pair are joined by Young Thug for the brief (2:12) yet hypnotic track.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ex3LGdbDqe0

    Next week Saturday Night Live welcomes host Jake Gyllenhaal with Musical Guest Camila Cabello.

  • Empire State Youth Orchestra Announces The Acquisition Of A Former School In Schenectady

    As a cultural institution that provides young musicians with the education and experience to achieve excellence, the Empire State Youth Orchestra, is moving its efforts to Schenectady.

    The multi-year project will transform the property, at 45 MacArthur Drive in Scotia-Glenville, formerly known as St. Joseph’s Parish School, into an establishment centered around progressive learning, leading to high-level performance opportunities within the music industry.

    Empire State Youth Orchestra
    The former St. Joseph’s Parish School, new home of the ESYO

    The goal is to establish an ensemble rehearsal academy and a permanent home for ESYO, rather than utilizing other temporary facilities. Since EYSO already provides the youth, specifically over 500 musicians with an unparalleled musical sanctuary, a place to call it home was all that was left to do.

    For years, ESYO has operated out of school gyms and auditoriums throughout the Capital Region. We’ve always dreamed of having a permanent home that will best support our young musicians as they grow and develop. We are thrilled to have acquired this property and look forward to transforming it into a center for musical youth.

    Omar Williams, ESYO’s new Board Chair

    This organization provides opportunities for those who are selected after the audition process in all twelve counties in New York’s Capital Region, the Hudson Valley, Western Massachusetts, and Southern Vermont. This program has 13 distinct ensembles and orchestras for all performance levels.

    Members are given high-class training from well qualified conductors, coaches, and extraordinary guest artists. Furthermore, the organization’s alumni include GRAMMY-nominated Vibraphonist Stefan Harris, Bang on a Can All-Star Ashley Bathgate, Ian Antonio the co-founder of the experimental piano and percussion ensemble YarnWire, and Chicago Symphony’s Associate Principal Cellist Ken Olson.

    According to Schenectady County Legislator Cathy Gatta, who is also the President of the Discover Schenectady Board of Directors, this change in location for ESYO will provide major benefits for Schenectady, specifically benefiting local businesses and the community as whole.

    Since 1979, ESYO has built up its reputation as a strong force within the music community and as a result of its efforts has received three American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) awards. For more information, about the organization visit the ESYO website. 

  • Chamber Music Society in NYC Creates Two-Part PBS Film

    The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in NYC closed its doors for two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in a two-part PBS film Chamber Music Society Returns, the story of CMS’s return to live concerts is told. It will be airing nationally on April 8, and then on the 15th.

    CMS is one of eleven constituents of the largest performing arts complex in the world, the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. CMS brings the experience of great chamber music to more people than any other organization of its kind through its many performances, education, recording, digital, and broadcast activities.

    Musicians perform Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall, photo by Cherlynn Tsushima.

    The PBS film will explore the passion for making music that pushed the CMS community forward. The film features behind-the-scenes footage at CMS’s rehearsal studios, offices, and backstage. Musicians will reveal their relief at finally leaving the pandemic, and long-awaited performances full of emotion, embrace, and tears of joy.

    The first part Setting the Stage features violinist Arnaud Sussmann, bassist Joseph Conyers, cellist David Finckel, and pianist Wu Han talking about how frightening the early stages of the pandemic were, and how music helped them during that difficult time. Viewers get to see the everyday work of chamber musicians, and see performances of both solo Bach and work from the opening night concert.

    The second part Bringing Down the House explores the aftermath of opening night, and the challenges of finding a way to safely gather over a dozen wind players to play as performing were considered risky early in the pandemic.

    CMS artistic director David Finckel spoke about why live music is special.

    Listening to a recording is like looking at a painting on a wall. It can be a great painting, but it doesn’t change. It’s always exactly the same. The live performance, though, is so far beyond the recording or the painting on the wall in that it’s like watching the artwork itself being recreated by the artist in front of your eyes in real time. Because live is always an interpretation. It’s never the same twice.

    The CMS PBS documentary will be airing on April 8 and 15, and the trailer is out now.

  • Gooseberry Drops Titular Song In Anticipation Of Debut EP “Broken Dance”

    In anticipation of their debut EP, Broken Dance, set to release on May 6th, Gooseberry has dropped the titular track of their forthcoming project. The Brooklyn band, consisting of Asa Daniels, Evin Rossington, Sam Rappaport, and Will Hammond, is slowly building an underground following.

    Recently, the band placed in the Final Four in NYSMusic’s March Madness 2022 bracket, and their newest release continues to highlight their talent.

    Gooseberry Broken Dance
    Gooseberry

    Gooseberry’s music is a magnificent blend of soulful R&B and indie-pop. Their newest release continues to showcase this amalgamation. The titularly titled track, “Broken Dance,” features a happy yet inquisitive piano roll. Accompanied by a melancholic violin and intimate lyricism, the track wonderfully captures the antonymic feelings of intimacy and loss.

    The four-piece talent will also be touring the American Northeast. In New York, they will return to the Bowery Electric on April 14th and to Brooklyn’s Knitting Factory on May 21st. Additionally, the band will also pass through the Finger Lakes region and will play at Grist Iron Brewing on June 11th.

    TOUR DATES

    04/13 – O’Brien’s – Boston, MA

    04/14 – Bowery Electric – New York, NY

    04/16 – Transparent Clinch Gallery – Asbury Park, NJ

    05/21 – Knitting Factory – Brooklyn, NY

    06/11 – Grist Iron Brewing – Burdett, NY

    Gooseberry is set to have an exceptional 2022, for more information on the band and to pre-order Broken Dance, visit gooseberryband.com.

  • First Ever David Bowie World Fan Convention Announced for June

    The David Bowie Glamour Fanzine and Sound City have come together to organize the first annual David Bowie World Fan Convention. From June 17th-19th, Bowie enthusiasts will have the opportunity to show their love for the iconic artist in Liverpool’s Mountford Hall.

    The unconventional convention will have a number of events and performances to keep fans entertained. Hula-hoop artist Natasha Moonshine will make an appearance, along with dancer Joshua Hubbard and performance artist Pretentious Dross. Drag artist Jonny Woo will serve as a host for the Bowie Ball events. Woo, owner of the London LGBTQ+ venue The Glory, is also a founding member of Glastonbury’s drag scene at NYC Downlow.

    The David Bowie Glamour Fanzine and Sound City have hand-picked the musical acts for the convention, with Bowie tribute band, Rebel Heroes, being the first group confirmed. DJs The MenWhoFell2Earth and Sonic Youtha will entice fans to come to the dance floor with Bowie deep cuts, familiar favorites and associated hits. 

    David Bowie during David Bowie’s 50th Birthday Celebration Concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Patti Ouderkirk/WireImage)

    There will also be an array of art installations and displays. Painter Shaun Lowndes will be exhibiting his surrealist, comic book inspired work, while ceramic artist Maria Primolan will be displaying her series of sculptures, each piece modeled after a different Bowie era. 

    Some of Bowie’s closest friends and collaborators will make appearances during the two day event. Influential image makers like Tim Bret-Day and Brian Duffy will answer fan questions and give insight into Bowie’s creative processes and life.

    Tickets are on sale now.

  • NY Punk Band Shakeout Release Inspiring Single “Build Your Building”

    NY Punk Band Shakeout has just released their new inspiring single “Build Your Building.” This is the second single from the band this year, who just got off an east coast tour.

    Shakeout is a two-piece alt/punk band from Yonkers that formed at the end of 2016. The band’s songwriting is filled with experimentation as they take influence from a multitude of genres including punk, pop, and hip-hop. They have also built their sound on the heavy use of looping, which creates the idea that there are more than two people in the band. They are unique as well because both of the band’s members are named A.J.

    The band has already self-released three EPs, has played throughout the east coast and midwest. They have played at multiple festivals, including the Launch Music Conference in Lancaster, PA, NYC’s Punk Island, and NY Riverfest.

    The new single “Build Your Building” is inspiring with lyrics about “feeding a machine that dictates the lives we lead” and “building yourself up and don’t tear them down.” The song has a steady drum beat and layers of guitars. The overarching message of the song is inspiring, as they urge you to build yourself up and don’t tear others down, as they shout it in the bridge.

    The single is availible to listen to now on any streaming service.

  • Jake Huffman EP “Adderall & Whiskey” Out April 29th

    Producer and multi-instrumentalist Jake Huffman has announced his newest EP Adderall & Whisky, dropping on April 29th. This EP is inspired by his early 20’s, and lyrically he writes about the story of the rise and fall of love along with experiencing life in a rock band. “Giving it a Try” and “Just a Little More” only preview the intensity of Huffman’s newest project.

    Jake Huffman EP "Adderall & Whiskey" out April 29th
    photo credit: Coley Stevens 

    Since he was young, Jake Huffman began his musical journey traveling up and down the east coast with his rock and roll band, McLovins. With influence from early 2000’s alt-rock, Huffman’s writing flows into an Indie rock/Indie pop mindset combined with deep personal lyrics. In 2010, Rolling Stone described his band as “having the ability to harness the musical ferocity of Trey Anastasio, Les Claypool and Stewart Copeland before being able to legally drive a car.”

    "Adderall & Whiskey" EP
    “Adderall & Whiskey” EP

    Stated in a previous article from NYS Music, Huffman went back to college when COVID-19 hit, getting a Certificate in Music Production from Berkelee School of Music in Boston. During his time being locked down, Huffman dove into his studio work writing about 50 tunes over 2020-21 along with teaching music lessons remotely four days a week.

    Jake told Relix Magazine “Over the last few years, mostly in isolation, I was forced to look inward and found creative inspiration in the process.  I always tell aspiring songwriters that the best songs are honest, simple and specific. “Giving it a Try” is my way of practicing what I preach.”

    Jake releases his first solo song “Giving It A Try,” a preview of his full EP

    I took my own emotional arc of living with so much uncertainty in the world and produced and engineered the song myself from my home studio. The music video is a loose concept of writing, practicing and performing the song.  It’s a crowd favorite when the band and I play it live so I wanted to capture the love and energy for the song. I co-directed and edited the piece with my partner Coley Stevens who shot and colored the video.

    Jake Huffman

    As mentioned in a profile in Relix, Huffman said ““Over the last few years, mostly in isolation, I was forced to look inward and found creative inspiration in the process.  I always tell aspiring songwriters that the best songs are honest, simple and specific. “Giving it a Try” is my way of practicing what I preach.  I took my own emotional arc of living with so much uncertainty in the world and produced and engineered the song myself from my home studio.”

    Get tickets for the Mercury Lounge show on May 20th here, located on the Lower East Side of NYC.