NYS Music 2023

Category: Audio

  • Michael Ian Cummings of Skaters Announces Debut Solo EP, Releases Single “Contemporary Me”

    Infamous lead singer/songwriter of NYC’s Skaters, Michael Ian Cummings, has just announced his debut solo EP Oldest Troubles, out May 26th. To tease the upcoming release, he has decided to release a single from the album titled “Contemporary Me.”

    Michael Ian Cummings (SKATERS) Announces Debut Solo EP & Releases Single "Contemporary Me"

    10 short years have passed since Skaters’ formation in Lower East Side Manhattan. Within months of forming and a self-released EP, the band was signed to Warner Brothers Records. They toured around the world, had global critical acclaim from NME to the New York Times. And two years later, they released their debut album, self-released their sophomore album Rock n Roll Bye Bye independently, and then disappeared. 

    Michael Ian Cummings (SKATERS) Announces Debut Solo EP & Releases Single "Contemporary Me"

    It was a whirlwind ride for the band that came at one of the most difficult transitions in the music industry, the exact time digital downloads plummeted, and streaming had not yet reached the masses. Skaters were caught in the shuffle, and broke up.

    Now, after years of reevaluation and new inspiration, working an array of day jobs and night jobs for that matter, Michael Ian Cummings has rediscovered his muse. He has something special to show for the struggle, returning just a bit wiser with the debut solo EP titled Oldest Troubles. 

    “There are things in everyone’s life that will haunt them forever,” he writes of the EP’s title track. “Whether it stems from internal or external influences from our past that have marred, mamed, and influenced the way we handle life. No matter how far we try to run from them they always find us. This song is about welcoming those relentless “troubles” in, confronting them, and beginning to make yourself stronger. Or, at the very least, learning to live with them.” 

    “I love having autonomy over how and when I release music. Making decisions and moving on,” Cummings continued. “Reminds me of when I was a teenager. Just make things because they are worth making. Move forward and try not to look back too much.” 

    To accompany his new release, Michael Ian Cummings will perform at The Sultan Room in Brooklyn on May 31 (7:00 PM).  

    To listen to “Contemporary Me,” click the link here. 

    Tickets and more information about the show can be found HERE. 

  • Julica Dann, Prom Sex, And Brian Kaplan Featured on This Week’s EQXposure

    Each Sunday evening from 7-9 p.m. 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 Julica Dann, Prom Sex, and Brian Kaplan.

    Julica Dann, Prom Sex, and Brian Kaplan.

    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.

    Julica Dann – “Side Grit”

    Julica Dann is Erica Ann’s indie/electro music-making Gemini Twin. She has been making music and involved with bands for years but wanted to branch out to do completely solo music. She started with an old drum machine making beats along with her bass playing skills and has grown to include computer samples as well. Her song “Side Grit” off of her record On Hold, released in 2019, will be played on EQXposure.

    Prom Sex – “The Thinker”

    Prom Sex is a DIY noise rock project from Upstate New York. Originally starting as an experimental noise project fronted by Alex Furnia, it has since developed into an electric, rock-oriented group, enlisting the songwriting talent of Alex’s twin brother Nick on later EPs and their most recent album, DEATH OF THE BODY.

    Brian Kaplan – ”Harder to Stay”

    Award-winning singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and recording artist Brian Kaplan has fronted his genre-bending original projects since 2001. His original music has made its way onto the playlists of some of the most prominent regional radio stations in the Northeast. His various projects have opened for or shared the stage with such monster acts as BB King, blink-182, moe., Widespread Panic, Jerry Garcia Band, and more.

  • Josh Lumsden Releases Energetic Debut EP “SCION i”

    Independent DIY pop artist and acclaimed NYC-based producer Josh Lumsden has just released his debut EP SCION i just in time for Pride Month. The album features many dramatic hit songs accompanied by a handful of LGBTQIA icons. 

    Josh Lumsden Releases Energetic Debut EP “SCION i" May 19th

    For instance, the album starts off strong by introducing Rupaul’s Drag Race Winner Yvie Oddly on first single, “Energy,” multi-dimensional trans icon Cottontail makes their mark on second single, “Holiday,”  and Australian pop-sensation Brendan Maclean croons on “Drowning.” 

    Josh Lumsden Releases Energetic Debut EP “SCION i" May 19th

    The remaining tracks of the EP mark a close to its collaborative first half, and a start of its visual-album experience. “Right Here,” an industrial house track that takes you right into a Brooklyn warehouse rave was accompanied by a music video that centered around high-fashion by up & coming designers SIKK Designs & SKNDLSS.  

    Josh Lumsden Releases Energetic Debut EP “SCION i" May 19th

    The song “Wanna Have Fun” is a Pop/R&B turned Techno earworm features a futuristic AI-infused music video making a statement on the emergence of AI generated art. The final single, “Waiting,” is a downcast pop dream that turns violent, featuring melodic vocals and infectious harmonies. The music video for “Waiting” is currently in production and will be released in the coming weeks.  

    Born and raised in Austin, Texas, the classically trained musician and self-taught producer Josh reins as NYC’s “Independent DIY pop artist” (Kaltblut Magazine). Thus, for being the sole producer of their entire discography, director and editor of their music videos, and graphic designer of album and singles artwork.

    “The ability to produce my own music came from not knowing anyone who made beats, along with my innate apprehensiveness to bother anyone,” recalls Josh. “Being able to create things on my own and not rely on anyone is not only practical, but liberating.” Josh cites their biggest musical influences, as fellow self-producing artists like Grimes and Rosalia, for giving him the drive to continue doing things his own way and on his own terms.  

    To listen to SCION i, click the link here. 

    For more by Josh Lumsden, click the link here. 

  • Interstate Island Release Rock Single “Grey Wolf”

    LI rock band Interstate Island have just released their newest single “Grey Wolf” on May 18th. The single explores the dichotomies of choosing between freedom and companionship.  

    Interstate Island Release Rock Single "Grey Wolf" Out May 18th 

    The track “Grey Wolf” navigates these feelings through the lens of a “lone wolf,” one searching for clarity. Throughout the song, both ideas are celebrated as the singer tries to decipher what he needs the most. Sonically, the track has a similar vibe to singers/band like Elton John, Styx, and REO Speedwagon. 

    Interstate Island was initially formed by Eddie Andrews, who was born and raised with a firm appreciation for classic rock music. More Inspiration for the project came after seeking to reimagine Electric Light Orchestra’s classic albums of the 1970’s. The first visions of Interstate Island emerged in 2019 when Andrews met with accomplished producer Matt Wallace (O.A.R., Maroon 5, Andy Grammer). 

    Matt Wallace had listened to a few of Andrews’ demos and expressed an interest in working together on a project.  They initially recorded an early version of “Love Song” with a group of rock musicians who have regularly toured and recorded with some of the world’s most successful artists.   

    While the results were inspiring, Andrews believed there was an opportunity to expand on the concept by incorporating leading (as opposed to background) string arrangements – and perhaps using a live orchestra to perform those arrangements. 

    After a brief hiatus caused mainly by the Covid-19 pandemic, Wallace and Andrews were finally able to record Brave New World in 2021. Simultaneously, Interstate Island began to scope out the best fit for a leading string arranger.  

    Since a centerpiece of ELO’s work was the way in which they glistened string arrangements over pop-rock tracks, Andrews felt this was imperative to incorporate. This led Andrews to collaborate with Steve Turner, a well renowned arranger who previously toured with Electric Light Orchestra. 

    Listen to “Grey Wolf” by clicking the link here. 

    For more on Interstate Island, click the link here. 

    For more information on the band, click the link here.

  • Jess Jones and E.R.I.E. Featured on This Week’s EQXposure

    Each Sunday evening from 7-9 p.m. 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 Jess Jones and E.R.I.E.

    E.R.I.E. and Jess Jones

    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.

    Jess Jones- “Souvenier”

    Jess Jones is a free spirit born and raised in Esperance. She studied classical voice and guitar at the Crane School of Music and has performed at venues such as the Hotel Cafe, the Orange County Fair, the 2019 NAMM Show, and Rockwood Music Hall. She loves to borrow the picking styles of Paul Simon, James Taylor, and John Denver. 

    E.R.I.E-“Bad Mans World”

    E.R.I.E. is a Capital region-based indie rock quartet. What began as a passion project developed by singer/songwriter TJ Foster has turned into a fully formed quartet, bringing energetic live shows to eager audiences. Their most recent album Suburban Mayhem is out now.

  • Emily King Releases R&B LP “Special Occasion” 

    NYC native and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Emily King has just released her newest album Special Occasion. The album is the follow-up to King’s critically-acclaimed Scenery LP and is her first full release in four years. 

    “I’ve called this a breakup-to-makeup-to-breakup-again album, but really, it’s about trying to find joy in trying times—trying to celebrate who you are in your quietest moments, rather than in relation to someone else,” King explains. “For me that’s still very much a work-in-progress, but I hope these songs will help people to find some hope and relief.” 

    The album’s title track highlights King’s songwriting prowess and her ability to dig into life’s deepest sorrows and uncover unexpected beauty, shifting her focus on the little things that make life fun and worth celebrating. Across eleven dynamic tracks, including “This Year,” “Medal,” “False Start” (a collaboration with Nick Hakim), “Bad Memory” (featuring Lukas Nelson)”, and “The Way That You Love Me” (in collaboration with Rob Moose). 

    Coinciding with the album release, King kicks off her North American headlining tour tonight in South Orange, NJ. Over the next few weeks, King, supported by Joseph Solomon, will visit esteemed venues across the country including Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, Los Angeles’ Wiltern, New York’s Terminal 5, and more. The tour will conclude on June 1st in Boston. 

    King shows off her “smart, catchy songs that blend soul, R&B and pop” throughout the new album release (WNYC Soundcheck). Earlier this week she performed “Special Occasion” on Live with Kelly and Mark. Next Tuesday, fans across the country can catch King on CBS Mornings as she sits down with Anthony Mason for a conversation about the new album. 

    2023 North American Tour Dates 

    Fri, May 5 – South Orange, NJ – South Orange Performing Arts Center 

    Mon, May 8 – Toronto, ON – Danforth Music Hall 

    Tue, May 9 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues 

    Thu, May 11- Chicago, IL – House of Blues 

    Fri, May 12 – Madison, WI – Barrymore 

    Sat, May 13 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line 

    Tue, May 16 – Seattle, WA – Crocodile 

    Wed, May 17 – Portland, OR – Revolution Hall 

    Fri, May 19 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore 

    Sat, May 20 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern 

    Tue, May 23 – Austin, TX – The Paramount 

    Wed, May 24 – Dallas, TX – Granada Theater 

    Fri, May 26 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium + 

    Sat, May 27 – Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre 

    Sun, May 28 – Asheville, NC – The Orange Peel 

    Tue, May 30 – Washington, DC – The Howard 

    Wed, May 31 – New York, NY – Terminal 5 

    Thursday, June 1 – Boston, MA – The Royale 

    Special Guests: Joseph Solomon, Devon Gilfillian+ 

    To listen to Special Occasion, click the link here. 

    For more information on the upcoming tour, click the link here. 

    For more music by Emily King, click the link here. 

  • Tennis Courts Release New Indie/Folk Single “Am I Not Talking Enough” 

    Brooklyn’s 4-piece indie band Tennis Courts have just released their latest single “Am I Not Talking Enough” on May 3rd. The song is about the realization of how it feels to be not young anymore, but also not old either. 

    Consisting of the singer/songwriter duo of Pat Walsh and Andrew Clarke, lead guitarist Brian McKenna and bassist Spencer Brigman, the band started writing songs together in college in Charleston, SC before moving to Brooklyn in 2022. Tennis Courts’ sound overall offers a delicate mix of indie, folk, and power pop.

    Screenshot 2023-05-02 at 9.43.52 AM

    Of the new single, Walsh says, “This song is probably the most personal song we’ve ever put out. It’s about a lot of things, but I think it’s mostly just about how I have felt over the last year. I’ve spent a lot of time coming to terms with myself, how I fit in the world, and how I fit into other people’s lives. I spend a lot of time examining my relationship with myself, family, friends, and partners. And at the end of the day, maybe I am just thinking too much.” 

    Tennis Courts Release New Indie/Folk Single "Am I Not Talking Enough" 

    “Pensive and gorgeous, opening with acoustic strums accompanying subdued vocals, swelling with atmospheric treatments until the full band kicks in for a stunning final movement.”

    – Tuned Up 

    The band has played countless shows with Dogwood Tales, Sun Room, Hotel Fiction, Sonic Blume, Mo Lowda + The Humble, Wakelee, Daddy’s Beemer, Teenage Halloween, Easy Honey and many more. Tennis Courts forthcoming LP, which will come out later this year, was produced by Erik Kase Romero (The Front Bottoms, Lorde, Dogwood Tales). 

    Tennis Courts will also be accompanying Charlie & Margot on June 22nd at the Bond Street Basement in Asbury Park, NJ. For more information on this upcoming event, click the link here.  

    To listen to “Am I Not Talking Enough,” click the link here. 

    For more music by Tennis Courts and more information on upcoming shows, click the link here. 

  • Annie Scherer, 10:01, The Sugar Hold Featured on This Week’s EQXposure

    Each Sunday evening from 7-9 p.m. 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 Annie Scherer, 10:01, and The Sugar Hold.

    Annie Scherer, 10:01, and The Sugar Hold on EQXposure.

    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.

    Annie Scherer-“Everywhere I Go ( Everybody’s the Same)”

    Annie Scherer is a Voorheesville native, merging her love of rock ‘n roll classics with her passion for alternative music to produce her own unique sound. Her emotional lyrics and haunting melodies have been heard live from New York to Tennessee, releasing her first full-length album Garden Bed in March 2021.

    10:01-“Flying Home”

    Formed in Averill Park, NY, 10:01 is an alternative rock group that combines a modern indie sound with influences of blues and rock. Their new single “Flying Home” is out now.

    The Sugar Hold-“Walk of Shame”

    The Sugar Hold are indie surf rock band based in Schenectady. Fairly new to the scene, they are known for their hard-partying ways and their funny off-the-wall songs and lyrics.

  • Stolen Gin Share Dance/funk “Drunk Ambition” Single + Video 

    NYC-based dance-funk quintet Stolen Gin have released their newest single “Drunk Ambition” paired alongside a lyric video. The single gives the feeling of an intense love for a person, never wanting them to leave your side. 

    Stolen Gin, a dance-funk quintet formed in 2019 from New York City, is known for their high-energy live act and avid improvisation–they never play songs the same way twice. The band first came together playing college parties on NYC rooftops, and their goal then was the same as it is now: to make every gig feel like a party, and to keep people dancing. 

    Stolen Gin Share Dance/funk "Drunk Ambition" Single + Video 

    The band writes, “This song was written a couple months after meeting someone really special. I’m looking back at how it started and counting my blessings that it happened the way it did. The first verse is a flashback to that original moment where a relationship was the last thing on my mind- or so I thought. The chorus then brings us back to the present, where ‘Drunk Ambition’ is my own little way describing the untamable love I feel for this person, never wanting to leave their side.” 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3Y3XhGifto

    “As a band, we’ve recorded some projects in the past at full service studios but realized that we’re most comfortable locked in a room together with no outside influences. For ‘Drunk Ambition,’ we decided to book a session at a DIY studio in Brooklyn. We produced the verses of the song to be tight and funky, while playing with longer, distorted chords and pumping drums in the chorus to create tension and release. Our guitarist, Will Adler, engineered the session and mixed the track, and the song was mastered by Will Quinnell at Sterling Sound.” 

    Having gotten their start playing college rooftop shows around the city, the band is continuing to utilize all New York has to offer, with this latest track being recorded at a DIY studio in Brooklyn. But Stolen Gin’s sound can be heard all over the world, given their immense TikTok following after songs like “Tension Release” and “Take Your Problems to the Disco” went viral across the platform. 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ajj4D7YCdw

    Stolen Gin goes on tour consistently, selling out their last eight consecutive NYC headliners in the span of the last 18 months at venues such as Baby’s All Right, Mercury Lounge, and more. The band recently played in both D.C. and Boston for the first time, with sellouts in both of those cities. They’ve also just finished a tour with the legendary jam band TAUK, and now Stolen Gin is heading back into the studio to make more new music. 

    To listen/watch “Drunk Ambition,” click the link here. 

    For more music by Stolen Gin, click the link here. 

  • Dive Brake Release Progressive Rock EP “The Approach” 

    Brooklyn based rock band Dive Brake have just released their debut EP full of unapologetic progressive rock songs. Along with this, the band has a gig lined up for May 6th at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2 in Manhattan. Joining them will be Nick Balzano’s band Whaley (fka Logan Whaley Band), and Dysfunktone. 

    Dive Brake Release Progressive Rock EP “The Approach” 

    Dive Brake is a progressive grunge jamband trio from Brooklyn. They recorded 9 tracks with Pinch Records, a very small startup label out of Long Island City, and just got their first 3 songs released as an EP titled The Approach. 

    Dive Brake Release Progressive Rock EP “The Approach” 

    The tracks are supposed to play well in order. “Static” being the leadoff, coming across funky and heavy. Next, “4 Banger” is an alt-prog banger with 2 different refrains and a jammed out multi part bridge section. Lastly, “Stay on Target” is an 11:34 long epic. The Approach EP is available everywhere. 

    There will be a follow up LP that contains the rest of the tracks from those sessions where The Approach was recorded. Keep your eyes peeled for more info on that in the coming months.  

    From casual jams between Nick Pascarella and Steve Remp, following the breakup of Gone Quite Mad, thus, Dive Brake was born. But after grabbing the attention of a longtime friend and collaborator, Dexter Larsen, a once innocuous trio launched into full blown ascent. 

    With using their distortion laden verses and enveloping choruses, the occasional Latin groove driven bridge, never ending tumults of guitar led melody. Their sound isn’t music you listen to casually, it’s for when you want to be assaulted by sound.  

    Listen to The Approach by clicking the link here. 

    To listen to Dive Brake, click the link here. 

    For more information about the upcoming show on May 6th, click the link here.