Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will begin their 2023 US tour with 31 shows across the country including 6 shows in New York.
The long-awaited tour marks the first time Springsteen and The E Street Band have toured together in the U.S. since 2016. This newest tour will launch in Florida on Feb. 1 and continue through April 14 with the finale in Newark, NJ.
The NY part of the tour includes one-night stops at MVP Arena, Keybank Center, Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center, and two nights at UBS Arena in Belmont Park. UBS Arena is the only venue across the entire tour to host two nights on April 9 and 11. The state-of-the-art arena is designed to accommodate 19,000 people and previously showcased the talents of international stars such as Dua Lipa, Harry Styles, John Mayer, Eagles, and more.
The most recent release from Springsteen and the E Street Band, Letter to You, debuted at No. 1 in eleven countries. The album also was the first time in decades that the group recorded live in decades. At almost an hour-long, Letter to You was recorded in 2019 at Springsteen’s NJ home studio.
Photo Credit: Danny Clinch
Springsteen and the E Street Band will tour across Europe from April to July 2023, after which more North American tour dates are expected to be announced for August. The U.S. tour is set to be a great success, as the 2016 River Tour was in the past.
The members of the E Street Band include Roy Bittan (piano, synthesizer), Nils Lofgren (guitar, vocals), Patti Scialfa (guitar, vocals), Garry Tallent (bass guitar), Stevie Van Zandt (guitar, vocals), and Max Weinberg (drums), Soozie Tyrell (violin, guitar, vocals), Jake Clemons (saxophone), and Charlie Giordano on keyboards.
The first of the ticket sales will begin on July 20, at 10 am local time, through Ticketmaster. The Springsteen and the E Street Band tour will also be utilizing Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan program, and fans can register now for the program through July 17 with more information available here.
For the full list of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band tour dates, see below.
Real hip-hop was on display at the latest Alive at 5 in Albany on Thursday, July 7. Talib Kweli, one-half of hip-hop duo Black Star, was greeted to a warm reception on Thursday. Kweli’s large audience consisted of many who probably grew up listening to 90s styled hip-hop/rap. Backed by the band, The Whiskey Boys, many were brought to the feet with the versatile range of music on stage.
Not only was hip-hop on the menu this evening, there was also a fair amount of R&B and jazz performed. Kweli made time to demonstrate the complexity of each instrument on stage with solo performances. He also interacted with the crowd by not only playing some of his hits, but in paying tribute to Biz Markie, Ol’ Dirty Bastard and DMX. The show brought a lot of nostalgia and history to a multi-generational audience.
Talib Kweli was preceded by DJ Siroc and DJ TGIF. DJ Siroc played a nice set of songs, ranging with many hits from the 90s and early 2000’s. DJ TGIF was introduced by Mayor Kathy Sheehan, as he is one of Albany’s own. He kept to the unofficial theme with a set consisting of hits from Jay-Z, A Tribe Called Quest, and DMX. A dance battle broke out during the end of DJ TGIF’s set that lead well into the excitement for Talib Kweli.
If you were not able to catch Talib Kweli, his next performance will be at the Blue Note in Manhattan on July 12th.
Alive at Five returns on July 14 with Cassadee Pope featuring Sydney Worthley opening the show.
Making the most of an unfortunate and potentially volatile situation, a free moe. concert at the Empire State Plaza in Albany was music to the ears of disappointed Deadheads and plenty of moe.rons on Wednesday, July 6. With many fans already on the road when late afternoon news broke that Dead and Company had suddenly cancelled their show at SPAC, live music lovers didn’t have to look very far to find their fix.
With beloved Buffalo improv icons moe. already scheduled to kick off Albany’s ‘Summer at the Plaza’ concert series on the same night, what was once thought to be tough choice for the competing fanbase suddenly seemed like a blessing a disguise. For the moe.rons, there was never a debate on where to be, but to the dedicated Deadheads still hoping to dance, turning the bus around and detouring it to the Empire State Plaza became an obvious no-brainer.
“I can remember the warm summer nights, drinking cold Gennys, yeah we’d get so tight.” – Lyrics from “Blue Jeans Pizza”
Set in the shadows of the state capitol building and in a sea of tie dye t-shirts, it was more than just the hippies who showed up on this picture-perfect summer evening. Instead, a pleasantly diverse crowd of all ages, genders, colors, hair styles and musical aptitudes packed into the plaza shortly after happy hour. There were kids running around with cotton candy and snow cones, old friends catching up while waiting in the massive beer line, people playing frisbee and walking their dogs, local artists hustling for a buck. All of it helping to create a family friendly, carnival-like vibe bustling with energy and as word got around that moe. was in town, the crowd only seemed to grow larger as the evening went on.
Dead and Company fans flocked from SPAC to the Empire State Plaza after the bands surprise cancellation.
The entire performance felt drenched in nostalgia. While it was a beautiful and surreal scene come showtime, the road to getting there has been long and full of curveballs. You see, while moe is largely considered a “Buffalo band,” die-hard Albany fans still like to consider the guys “homegrown.” Playing some of their earliest shows at legendary local dives like the former Valentine’s off New Scotland Ave, some members of the band even lived in Albany before truckin’ up to Buffalo. Their impact on local culture over the years so significant, that back in 2018 Albany’s mayor, Kathy Sheehan, officially declared February 24th as “moe. Day” in the city. While little has been made of that fact since then, judging by the amount of people who packed into the plaza for this rare (and free) moe. show, it’s clear that the local love has never wavered. Seeing core members Rob Derhak (bass), Al Schnier (guitar), Vinny Amicio (drums), and Jim Loughlin (percussion) sharing smiles together while taking it all in, you couldn’t help but feel proud of the “happy hour heroes” on stage.
From the thought-provoking summer anthem “Blue Jeans Pizza” opener, to a jammed out 16 minute version of “The Road,” to old-school moe. staples like “Head,” 2001’s “So Long” and an always appreciated “Mexico” set closer, much of the talk during intermission wasn’t about the guys playing on stage, but rather who wasn’t on stage. The conversation was all about Chuck and how much he is missed. For many in attendance, it was their first time seeing the band without moe.’s founding guitarist, virtuoso Chuck Garvey, who has been on the sidelines recovering from a serious stroke since in November of last year. In a truly sentimental moment towards the end of the show, Al read a “get well soon” note from a fan named Nicole, then lead the entire crowd in a “Chuck, Chuck, Chuck” chant.
moe. performing with Suke Cerulo and Nate Wilson at the Empire State Plaza 7/6/22
Stepping up to the plate in Garvey’s absence, the band has enlisted not one, but two world-class players; Suke Cerulo of Schleigho on guitar and keyboard/multi instrumentalist Nate Wilson from Percy Hill. While guitarist Al Schnier handled most of the heavy lifting and soloing during the first set, the improvisation during the second set went long and deep and really allowed Cerulo and Wilson to show what they’re made of. While Cerulo’s headless guitar will take some getting used to, he’s seems to be a natural fit, while Wilson on the other hand, adds a completely new dynamic and versatility to the moe. sound, complete with funk infused keyboards and a flute that plays incredibly well off Jim Loughlin’s xylophone sounds.
Coming out of the gates for the second set with a near 20 minute version of Lazarus, the band would effortlessly segue into a particularly funky 18 minute rendition of “George.” After a brief pause, the band would launch into a massive “McBain” sandwich that saw them jam into a “Starship Troopers”>”Tubing the River Styx” and eventually find their way back into “The Pit.” The true highlight and easily the long jam of the name night came next with the set closing 26 minute moe classic “Brent Black” which brough everyone at the Empire State Plaza to their feet in a standing ovation. With the hard curfew now rapidly approaching, the band would return to the stage for fan favorite “Bear Song” as an encore.
If you liked the setlist of this show, you can thank a kind man by the name of John King. If you didn’t like it, well, blame cancer. Based on King’s generous donation to the American Caner Society, the band gave him the unique opportunity to write the setlist. Considering many of the people who were there went into the night expecting to hear Dead and Company, I think it’s safe to say Mr. King knocked it out of the park in a big way. Before exiting the stage, bass player Rob Derhak addressed the crowd one final time saying, “We had an awesome time, we hope you guys did as well. Thank you so much for coming out. Seriously though, we really do love Albany. We have are own day here in February, it’s moe. day, so you can’t beat that, thank you. Me and some of the guys are gonna be down at The Hollow tonight with Blue Star Radiation, so shameless plug. Goodnight.”
Moe. | July 6, 2022 | Albany, NY | Empire State Plaza (Free Show)
Set 1: Blue Jeans Pizza, The Road, Head, So Long, Mexico
Set 2: Lazarus > George , McBain> Starship Troop Jam > Tubing the Rive Styx* > The Pit> Brent Black
Encore: Al.nouements, Chuck Chant, Bear Song * with Nate Wilson on flute
Pulling double duty, the fun wasn’t over yet this evening. Directly following moe.’s performance, fans in the know headed further downtown to The Hollow where Guthrie/Bell Productions was hosting an evening with Blue Star Radiation, the side-project which also features moe. drummer Vinnie Amico and bassist Rob Derhak, plus keyboard/multi instrumentalist Nate Wilson and virtuoso guitarist Tim Palmieri of Kung Fu, The Breakfast and most recently Lotus fame.
As you might expect with the pedigree of the players involved, this show was quite the party. A veritable “all-star” band of improvisational, jam band musicians that all share an affinity for classic rock, the show saw everything from highly danceable funk grooves, to tasteful blues-based crooning, to bombastic, over-the-top soloing. It was perhaps no surprise that guitarist Tim Palmieri stole the show however, as he was the only member of Blue Star Radiation that was completely fresh having not played at the Plaza earlier in the night.
Always the consummate showman, Palmieri’s incendiary shredding was on full display from the beginning, almost daring his bandmates to try and keep up. Derhak, who could be seen grinning ear to ear most of the show, was up to the challenge, and even would go head-to-head with Palmieri in an instrumental duel that would send the Hollow howling.
While there appeared to be no formal setlist, obvious highlights included covers of moe. classics like “Opium” and “Mar De Ma” as well as “Biblical Proportions” and an exquisite rendition of the Jethro Tull classic “Locomotive Breath.” Sensing there was something special going on here, about half way through the night, promoter Greg Bell casually worked his way through the crowd to the front of the stage to ask the guys how they felt about playing a second set. Derhak would leave it up the audience, holding his arms out and asking “What do you folks think?” After the resounding cheer, Blue Star Radiation would go on to play all the way till about 1am. While this project is still relatively new, BSR shows are quickly becoming “can’t miss” affairs.
New Yorkers will get their next chance to see the band soon, as Blue Star Radiation makes their NYC debut at the Cutting Room on Friday, July 22. As for moe.’s next New York engagement, the band is set return to beautiful Lake George the first weekend of September for two headlining nights at the Adirondack Independence Music Festival.
Blue Star Radiation | July 6, 2022 | Albany, NY | The Hollow
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 The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, Eastern Highs, Gracies Paris 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.
The Eastern Highs – “Redwood Trees” & “One More Star”
The Troy NY quartet The Eastern Highs produces a captivating soundscape which combines classic & modern sounds reminiscent of The Band, Wilco, Pink Floyd and Radiohead. Two songs will be featured this week on EQXposure, “Redwood Trees” & “One More Star.”
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch – “waiting”
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch features Jordan Demarest on drums, Dan Haggerty on bass, and Will Kachidurian on guitar and vocals, who call Albany home. Their newest song “waiting” will premiere on EQXposure, for now listen to Game of the Year Edition below.
Gracies Paris – “Baby Now”
On original power pop rock band from Albany, Gracies Paris is a hook-oriented group formed in 2007 featuring Carl Ferritto (vocal and guitar), Eric Buechner (drums), and Randy Rose (bass). Together, Gracie’s Paris will keep you yearning for more, as each new song pushes them in a different direction.
The Palace Theatre in Albany has announced its Summer in the City Movie Series which will begin on July 12. Over the course of the summer, the theatre will host eight free, family-friendly movies for the community to enjoy.
The Palace Theatre began the series in 2015 as a way to give children the opportunity to experience the excitement of the theatre, and fun and safe ways to participate in the arts. Since 2016, the SEFCU has been a proud sponsor of the event. Each show will begin at 1 pm, with educational activities one hour before showtime.
Since the series began in 2015, over 35,000 people have enjoyed a movie at the Palace Theatre thanks to the Summer in the City Movie Series. This year’s lineup features popular movies with something for everyone to enjoy.
From Sing 2, Raya the Last Dragon, Luca, Space Jam: A New Legacy, and more, the movie offerings are packed with entertainment for all ages. The Palace Theatre is also offering free popcorn for children under 12 for the full movie experience.
On August 30, after the showing of the popular Disney musical Encanto, audiences can enjoy the finale of the series with a special ice cream social – a great way to beat the summer heat. There will be giveaways, activities, and free ice cream courtesy of Stewart’s Shops.
Free tickets are available in advance at the Palace Theatre Box Office or can be reserved . For the full series schedule, see below.
2022 Summer in the City Schedule
For all events, doors open at noon for activities; movies begin at 1:00 p.m.
On July 7 at 7:30 pm, Opera Saratoga will present a Sky on Swings at The Egg in Albany with a second performance on Saturday, July 9, at 2:00 pm.
Sky on Swings, directed by Artistic and General Director of Opera Saratoga Lawrence Edelson and conducted by Emily Senturia, is an opera about the different stages and challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease. Meredith Arwady and Phyllis Pancella play Martha and Danny, who are two women with the disease and develop a bond over their experiences.
Opera Saratoga, formerly Lake George Opera, opened with its first production in 1962. The opera renewed its commitment to the community by offering productions that engage critical issues to promote meaningful connection and dialogue among audiences. Sky on Swings is one such production that aims to encourage understanding and empathy.
Helena Colindres, Meredith Arwady, and Phyllis Pancella during Sky on Swings. Photo credit: Gary David Gold
Sky on Swings’ world premiere occurred in Philadelphia, where Opera Saratoga’s Lawrence Edelson was in attendance. As someone whose family was personally touched by Alzheimer’s, the artistic director at first was hesitant to see the show before experiencing the opera in its entirety.
I’ll admit that I attended SKY ON SWINGS with some reluctance, in part because I knew the story would likely impact me, but also because I wasn’t sure how the journey of someone with Alzheimer’s could be portrayed in opera without making it feel artificial or sensationalized. But experiencing the opera was cathartic and deeply moving. The score is remarkable in how it both creates the sound of memory and also portrays the experience of two women and their children living through different stages of the disease.
-Lawrence Edelson, Opera Saratoga Artistic & General Director
Following the performances on July 7 and July 9, Opera Saratoga will hold a discussion including Elizabeth Smith-Boivin, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York; composer Lembit Beecher; members of the cast and creative team.
Photo Credit: Gary David Gold
After almost a two-year delay due to the pandemic, the opera will also be launching a full-time therapeutic music program for those in the region living with the disease. As Edelson’s last production as director, Sky on Swings and the music program are both particularly touching: “this, for me, is what an opera company should be all about. We entertain. We enrich. We educate. And we enhance the lives of those who need us, and whom we have the ability to help in a deeply meaningful way.”
Tickets to the shows range from $50-$125 and more information can be found here. The show is an important one for so many and is a must-see.
moe. begins a truncated summer tour this week, taking them across New York State, where they have made their mark for more than 30 years. The moe. lineup – Al Schnier, Rob Derhak, Vinnie Amico and Jim Loughlin – continues to feature Suke Cerulo and Nate Wilson, filling in for Chuck Garvey as he steadily recovers from a stroke he had in November 2021.
Chuck Garvey projected onto the walls of The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY – photo by Filip Zalewski
moe. bassist Rob Derhak and the band have spent time over the past two months rehearsing with Cerulo and Wilson at Big Blue North in Utica to prepare the sextet for their first real stretch of shows without Garvey.
The Chuck shows at The Cap in December with all the guest musicians, those guys (Suke and Nate) were part of the last set of the second night, and the set just really gelled. We had no time to rehearse with anyone beyond soundcheck; Suke had spent his time doing his homework, and Nate has sat in many times and knows a lot of songs, so when it came time to decide, it wasn’t that hard a decision. They can play really well and had a jump on the material, so both factors made it simple.
We’re very fortunate that those guys put the work in ahead of time and did their homework to learn the material, so it was a good fit and a good call in the end.
Rob Derhak, on Suke Cerulo and Nate Wilson
Derhak spoke to NYS Music shortly after Summer Camp Music Festival had wrapped its 21st year, where hosts moe. and Umphrey’s McGee performed 5 sets each over three days at their respective stages in Three Sisters Park. Derhak, along with Schnier, Amico and Loughlin threw Cerulo and Wilson some curveballs that they were still able to hit into play.
There was a 3-song sandwich – “Rebubula” > “So Long” > “Buster” > “Rebubula” – that was a situation where most people may not understand what’s going on but those guys got it. We talked about it ahead of time but never played through the whole thing with them. It came off without a hitch. Nate added a new keyboard intro for “Rebubula” that was really cool.
Rob Derhak
This was of course the first Summer Camp that Garvey had missed in the last two decades, and there was an emotional vibe with the band while they rehearsed and warmed up before the fest. From the Summer Camp Moonshine Stage, Derhak recalled how he felt two separate emotions during the weekend:
One is I keep looking over where Chuck would be, and he isn’t there, and it makes me feel weird and sad. And doing shots before a set, we would always wait for Chuck, and instinctively it’s kinda sad. I miss him, and it’s still not exactly right without him playing there.
Having Nate and Suke play at the same time, it’s almost a guilty feeling having this much fun, knowing Chuck would be loving this. Chuck did FaceTime with the band, saying he was jealous. It was bittersweet.
Rob Derhak
moe.rons can get a change to see Cerulo and Wilson with moe. a few times in July, as they will perform a free show at the Empire State Plaza on Wednesday, July 6 in Albany from 5:30-8:30 p.m., one that looks to have warm breezy weather for the show.
That won’t be all for moe. this summer though – they have a trio of shows in the Northeast over Labor Day weekend, starting at Stateside Amphitheater in Jay, VT on Friday, September 2, then they head down to Lake George for the annual ADK Independence Festival for two nights of two set shows. Labor Day weekend and moe. go hand in hand, given the nearly 20 years of moe.down festivals held in Turin and Mohawk, NY.
We joked last year it was like a little moe.down and after playing, it really was. I’m looking forward to it because it’s a great three days of music, perfect size and location, the vibe is amazing, and made me think of moe.down quite a bit when we did it.
Derhak noted that following the fall shows, moe. will look to start working with Garvey in “sometime in September and getting back to where we gotta go.” With regular check-ins and FaceTime calls, the band hopes to get a better idea of where Garvey is in his recovery and look ahead with new hope for the new year.
The 2022 Summer at the Plaza Festival lineup has been announced. The festival will be at the Empire State Plaza in Albany and it will feature family-friendly concerts, movies, and festivals, starting with the annual July 4 celebration.
New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy announced the lineup and spoke about the festival in a statement.
Thousands of people come to our free Summer at the Plaza events each year with their family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy the great entertainment, delicious food, and beverages, and the amazing fireworks at New York State’s Independence Day celebration. We have an exciting lineup of concerts, festivals, and movies this year with something for everyone. I want to thank our generous 2022 sponsors whose support makes it all possible.
Summer at the Plaza 2022Events
July 4, 5 – 10 P.M. New York State’s 4th of July Celebration Presented by Price Chopper/Market 32 with a performance by Starship Featuring Mickey Thomas.
This annual event features live music and fun for the whole family, including a fireworks show. Each year more than 20,000 people gather on the Plaza and in the surrounding neighborhoods to enjoy the day, which includes a naturalization ceremony, dozens of food and craft vendors, activities for kids, and an evening of live entertainment leading up to the big pyrotechnics show.
Starship featuring Mickey Thomas.
July 16, noon – 5 P.M. Kids Day Presented by MVP Health Care featuring “Dino Ranch”
Kids Day is a day dedicated to activities that kids can do. There will be live music, face painting, horses, rock wall, balloon twisting, and more. Kids Day will feature characters from the animated series “Dino Ranch” and will be held in the parks on the east and west side of the state Capitol.
August 6, 2 – 7 p.m. Black Arts & Cultural Festival Presented by UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce featuring SWV
The Black Arts and Cultural Festival is an updated take on a classic celebration of the traditions and cultural contributions of the Black community through music, art, dance, and more. The celebration will feature a performance by R&B group SWV, one of Billboard’s “Top 40 Female Groups of All Time.”
SWV
August 17, 11 A.M. – 9 P.M. New York State Food Festival featuring the Eli Young Band
The annual Food Festival pairs a wide variety of delicious food and beverages with an exciting lineup of free entertainment, featuring a country music performance by the Eli Young Band.
Eli Young Band.
September 14, 5 – 9 P.M. Hops & Harvest Festival
The Hops and Harvest Festival was first held in 2018, and it celebrates the best of what autumn has to offer in upstate New York. Headline performer to be announced.
September 24, 5 – 9 P.M. Hispanic Heritage Celebration featuring Charlie Cruz, Amarfis, & Fulanito
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the state’s annual cultural celebration, featuring live music and dancing inside the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. This year’s celebration will feature performances by musical acts Charlie Cruz, Amarfis, and Fulanito.
Amarfis.Fulanito (Photo by Brian To/FilmMagic)Charlie Cruz.
The Capital Concert Series presented by Miller Lite and DeCrescente Distributing Company offers four Wednesday evening concerts free to the public. Each performance starts at 5:30 P.M. with a list of award-winning and diverse artists.
Rock band moe. is the first act to kick off the Capital Concert Series Lineup. They formed at the University of Buffalo in 1990, and are known for their unique sounds and epic concert performances. They have played with well-known bands, like the Allman Brothers Band, Robert Plant, members of the Grateful Dead, and more.
Grammy-award-winners Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will headline the July 13 date of the concert series. Benatar and Giraldo, whose hits include “We Belong,” “Invincible,” “Love Is A Battlefield,” “Promises In The Dark,” “We Live For Love,” “Heartbreaker,” and “Hell Is For Children,” have created two multi-platinum, five platinum, and three gold albums, as well as 19 Top 40 hits.
Grammy-award-winning Jamaican-bred quintet Inner Circle has had a long string of successes stretching back to the 1970s. The King Yellowman Show won a contest and then went on to play reggae for crowds all over Jamaica and the rest of the world.
Inner Circle.The King Yellowman Show featuring K’reema & The Sagittarius Band
Melle Mel and Scorpio were members of Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five which was the first rap group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The Sugar Hill Gang has released hits such as “Rapper’s Delight,” “Apache,” “8th Wonder,” and “Living in the Fast Lane.”
Melle Mel and Scorpio with The Sugar Hill Gang
The lineup for the Lunchtime at the Plaza Concert Series Presented by M&T Bank has been announced. The free outdoor concert series provides live music from noon to 1:30 P.M. on Wednesdays between June 1 and July 27 at the Empire State Plaza. New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy spoke about the lunchtime events in a statement.
The lunchtime concert series provides an excellent opportunity for state employees and the public to get outside and enjoy a live performance while eating lunch from one of the Plaza food trucks or shopping at the weekly summer farmers market. We want to thank M&T Bank for their generous sponsorship of this Summer at the Plaza event
Lunchtime at the Plaza Concert Series Presented by M&T Bank
The last set of events happening at Summer at the Plaza 2022 are the outdoor move nights in West Capitol Park starting at 8 P.M. for three Wednesdays, featuring classic films.
Capitol Park After Dark Movies Series in West Capitol Park
August 24 — “The Wiz”
August 31 — “Sunset Boulevard”
September 7 — “The Philadelphia Story”
All events for the Summer at the Plaza 2022 celebration are free. For more information on the events, go here.
During the first weekend in July, The Albany Symphony will continue a series of free outdoor concerts in celebration of the newly completed Empire State Trail. The series, TrailBlaze NY, debuted in Troy and Cohoes and will include stops in Schenectady, Albany, and Amsterdam.
Photo Courtesy of ASO
The Albany Symphony debuted the festival in order to recognize the completion of the expansive Empire State Trail. The trail offers the people of NY 750 miles of cycling, hiking, and walking paths along the state’s most significant waterways.
At each stop along the weekend, the Albany Symphony, led by Maestro David Alan Miller, will perform at 7:30 pm featuring a program of new music, a folk-song sing-a-long, and more. Flame The Band will open for the Symphony at the Schenectady stop, with Barbara Howard and Jordan Taylor Hill opening in the Albany and Amsterdam events respectively.
Photo Courtesy of ASO
Audiences can also enjoy local food and drinks, health and wellness events, activities for kids, music, and more alongside the beautiful scenery. Each stop along the weekend is tailored to showcase the unique offerings of each of these communities.
TrailBlaze NY is a unique opportunity for people from all over the Northeastern US and Canada to discover some of the most extraordinary towns in New York State and the glorious nature that surrounds them … I hope all our friends and supporters will also join us to celebrate New York State in all its wonder and natural beauty, as well as our resilient communities and the things that connect us and bring us together, all the trails we explore, real and imagined.
Maestro David Alan Miller
The previous weekends of the festival in Troy and Cohoes were a big hit and audiences saw performances from the Symphony as well as Dogs of Desire among other musical guests. Dogs of Desire premiered five new pieces inspired by the Empire State Trail, and both groups were led by Miller.
For the schedule of activities for the weekend, see below. For more information on the Albany Symphony click here.
On Friday, June 24th, a rock themed night kicked off with Battleaxxx and closed out with cover band Black Sabbitch at Empire Live.
Battleaxxx is an all female rock band originally from the Capital Region. They are a fairly new band emerging from the Capital Region. They have played a few shows in and around Albany, including at The Lost & Found on August 28th, 20221. This show, however, was their first time performing at Empire Live. They released their debut album Adequate in March of 2021. Battleaxxx has upcoming show at Rare Form Brewing Company in Troy on July 5th.
Keeping on theme with women-lead rock, Black Sabbitch is an all female cover band from Los Angeles. They have been doing covers of Black Sabbith songs since 2011. To validate this band position as the Black Sabbith cover band, they were hand picked by Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne to open Ozzfest. Black Sabbitch was originally supposed to perform at Empire Live back in January 2022. Due to COVID surge, that show was postponed; and their next show in May was postponed due to a band member getting COVID ironically. The road to get to Albany was long, but they made it. Their summer tour ends in NYC on June 25th at the Iridium.
Battleaxxx kicked off the show with a growing crowd of about 30-40 people. Their opening song did not grab the attention of the audience, but their song “Slut,” did bring smiles and laughter. If the song was meant to be funny, it was, as people of varying ages applauded the band for calling their mom a slut. The lights did go out during their last song, but it did not stop the music. Battleaxxx’s set lasted for about 30 minutes and they received a warm applause as they left the stage.
The crowd did fill up to maybe about 100 or so people by the time Black Sabbitch took the stage. The audience was filled with a lot of seemingly empty nesters who were probably trying to relive the songs of their youth. A mosh pit of about 3 people did break out at a point, but did not last very long. During the guitar solos, you could see many people in the crowd reach up and out; banging their fist to the beat, resignating which each cord that was struck. A fire alarm did interrupt the set for about 20 mins, as well as a flood both in the dressing room and in the pit to stage left. They came back on stage, brought the crowd down low with Changes, and left on high with the Black Sabbith hit, “Sabbra Cadabra.”
Black Sabbitch did come back out for a one song encore after pump faking an exit with the dressing room door. If you are not able to catch Black Sabbitch in NYC, you can see them at the Psycho Las Vegas Festival on August 20th before they leave the states for their UK tour.
Battleaxxx Set List: Aqua, Eyes, Sex Boys, Biz, Slut, Holy, Oh Yeah, SWTB, Head, Discharge, Top Shelf
Black Sabbitch Set List: War, The Wizard, N.I.B., Sweet Leaf, Tomorrow’s Dream, Lord of the World, Solitude, Supernaut, Into the Void, Cornucopia, Wheels of Confusion, Changes, Snowblind, Sabbra Cadabra; Encore Song: Children of the Grave
