NYS Music 2023

Category: Media

  • Daniel Donato brings his “Cosmic Country” to Brooklyn Bowl

    On the evening of Saturday, October 21, fans gathered at the legendary Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg to witness an unforgettable performance by Daniel Donato. The 1000 capacity venue was completely sold out as Daniel and his ensemble graced the stage, bringing his unique presentation, “Cosmic Country,” to the streets of Brooklyn.

    Daniel, who is currently in the midst of his fall tour, made a resounding statement by packing this iconic venue to the brim. The atmosphere was electric. Taking the stage promptly at 8:00 PM, Daniel showcased not just his musical talent but also the profound connection he shares with his audience. “Cosmic Country,” originally the title of one of his albums, has become more than just a moniker; it symbolizes a journey into the world of Americana, and the boundaries he pushes as he explores each song.

    Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Daniel had previously made guest appearances at this venue earlier this year with the Kitchen Dwellers, and his growing popularity as an original artist has also seen him collaborating with mainstream icons. Notably, he recently joined Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzman for several of his recent shows, including the sold-out Pier 17 NYC performance in August, as well as performing with Bob Weir in his home state last year.

    https://youtu.be/lAOzVcLgoV8?si=mUMJR5Udcpu99M5t

    Daniel’s “Cosmic Country” experience takes the audience on a captivating journey, with his influences in jam band music shining through. It’s a blend of country and folk, infused with groovy and funky elements. The music is structured yet possesses an ethereal, space-like quality. The audience, in sync with the Cosmic Country vibe, sported cowboy, western, and psychedelic attire.

    A standout moment in the performance was when Scott Metzger, of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead fame, made a guest appearance during the first set. The energy in the venue was palpable as Daniel and Scott engaged in a musical duel, their notes creating a delightful exchange that resonated with the ecstatic audience. Throughout the night, Daniel’s ensemble band played an indispensable role in the evening’s success. Will Clark, commanding the drums, Nathan Aronowitz, who effortlessly alternated between keys and guitar, and Will McGee, holding down the bass, provided a solid musical foundation for the evenings journey.

    As the final set concluded, Daniel playfully bid the sold-out crowd a faux goodnight. The audience, buzzing with excitement, began chanting for an encore, and their enthusiasm was infectious. Prominent venue owner Peter Shapiro even emerged, further igniting the crowd’s energy. Daniel and his band returned to the stage amidst cheers, embarking on a final descent that left a lasting impression. As fans exited the Brooklyn Bowl, they were left buzzing with excitement, their anticipation for Daniel Donato’s promising career is undeniable. He is undoubtedly on the cusp of becoming a prominent figure in the Rock Community, with a dedicated fan base to support him.

    For those in Buffalo eager to catch a glimpse of the Cosmic Country phenomenon, a performance is scheduled for Tuesday, October 24. Furthermore, fans can look forward to his upcoming album, Reflector, set to release on November 10.

  • In Focus: Melvin Seals & JGB help celebrate 10 years of Buffalo Iron Works

    On October 19, Buffalo Iron Works celebrated ten years with a performance by Melvin Seals & JGB. As the evening began with a line of anxious fans awaiting to be let into the building, you could feel the energy in the air. The building filled in quickly for what had to be a capacity show.

    As the house lights went down, the crowd grew eager waiting to catch the first glimpse of the band. One by one each band members – Melvin Seals, John Kadlecik, Ron Holloway, John-Pual McLean, Peter Lavezzoli – made their way up the side stage stairs and onto the stage under thunderous applause and cheers. When the first note hit the air, the crowd moved in delight with a smile on nearly every face. Each song during the night was masterfully done. Each jam taken to a new level. And every member of the band was right where they needed to be all night long.

    The night could not have been any better with the two stellar sets of music brought curtesy of Melvin Seals & JGB. This was not their first time playing Buffalo Iron Works, and definitely should not be their last. As many in attendance would agree.

    Melvin Seals and JGB – Buffalo Iron Works – Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Setlist: How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You), Love in the Afternoon, Forever Young, Loose Lucy, Franklin’s Tower, Cassidy, Rubin and Cherise, Can’t Find My Way Home

  • Margaret Glaspy Shines Bright at Bowery Ballroom

    On yet another rainy night in New York City, the elusive Margaret Glaspy performed at The Bowery Ballroom on the Lower East Side.

    The last time she played the exact same venue in 2017 I couldn’t attend the show and she has not been back since, so needless to say I was very excited.

    Her most recent album Echo The Diamond came out mid-August of this year and she spent September opening up for Canadian band Half Moon Run – whose album release show NYS Music covered in June – then started her proper North American headline tour which will end November 14 in Los Angeles.

    On stage was Margaret with her signature Fender Electric, black leather pants, and the same see-through top with a black bra underneath that she had on the cover for Echo The Diamond. She talks to the crowd a lot, charming as ever, her vocals are sharp and hit the mark every time, mid-set the band leaves and she does a few numbers alone with just the guitar, and the room is silent. It’s not always that I’d consider the Bowery a listening room, but you could hear a pin drop.

    Half the set was songs off her most recent release, with five additional songs from her debut. A nice highlight was an Alanis Morrissette cover of “You Learn” and closing the set with the encore of “Fruits of My Labor” by Lucinda Williams. Here’s to hoping she doesn’t wait another six years before coming back to the area.

    Margaret Glaspy – Bowery Ballroom, NYC – October 20th, 2023

    Setlist: I Didn’t Think So, Act Natural, Irish Goodbye, Female Brain, Memory Street, Hammer and the Nail, You and I, My Eyes, Heartbreak, Turn The Engine, Somebody to Anybody, Memories, Before We Were Together, You Learn (Alanis Morrissette cover), Parental Guidance, Emotions and Math, One Heart and Two Arms, I Let My Worst Get the Best of Me, Get Back
    Encore: Fruits of My Labor (Lucinda Williams cover)

  • Watch The Rolling Stones Promote Album at Surprise Racket Show

    The Rolling Stones celebrated their first album release of original music in 18 years, Hackney Diamonds, at a small surprise show at Racket in NYC on Oct. 19.

    Ronnie Wood, Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards perform during the Rolling Stones’ surprise set at Racket. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for RS.

    The night started with a DJ set courtesy of Quest Love, and Samantha Urbani. Different VIP guests including Elvis Costello, Daniel Craig, Chris Rock, Jimmy Fallon, and more, were in attendance. With the death of drummer Charlie Watts in 2021, the Rolling Stones performed with the core trio of Mick Jagger and guitarists Keith Richards and Ron Wood, with other musicians supplementing.

    This isn’t the first time the Stones have performed an album release show in the city. The band once rolled down Fifth Avenue on a flatbed truck and on another occasion rode on a caboose into Grand Central Terminal. Their newest record Hackney Diamonds has received rave reviews, with Variety describing it as their best work since 1981’s Tattoo You, and Telegraph seeing it as “the best rock’n’ roll album of the past four decades at least.”

    They opened with “Shattered,” from 1978’s Some Girls, before playing their new songs “Angry,” “Whole Wide World,” and “Bite My Head Off.” The set also featured “Tumbling Dice” and “Jumping Jack Flash” before an encore for which the Stones were joined by Lady Gaga. 

    Dressed in a sequined maroon pantsuit, Gaga made an appearance to recreate her duet with Jagger on the new song “Sweet Sounds of Heaven” off Hackney Diamonds. The band’s Racket gig marked one of their smallest venue locations to date, particularly in the area, and was the perfect intimate setting to celebrate their newest album.

    https://youtu.be/Yg8XY9vNFIk?si=jM75V3XAjbMSf0QC

  • Les Claypool’s Frog Brigade Flies High at the Palace Theatre in Albany

    Frogs and freaks flew into the Palace Theatre in Albany on Friday, October 20, heralding the return of Les Claypool and his Frog Brigade. The first tour for the group in 20 years began earlier in the year, winding its way into the Northeast for a run of late-October shows.

    With draped banners of stars and stripes giving a nod to Pink Floyd’s The Wall, the stage took on a blue dystopian hue, as the six piece band – Skerik (saxophone), Mike Dillon (percussion, vibraphone), Sean Lennon (guitar), Harry Waters (keyboards), Paulo Baldi (drums) and Claypool (bass) – arrived on stage to “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” (Patrick Sarsfield Gilmore), Claypool bringing up the rear. With Les dressed in all black and a bowler hat, a slow bass led intro to “Cosmic Highway” took the audience on a psychedelic ride, right into “Up on the Roof.”

    Following Les offering praise to Skerik, Skerik spoke in French briefly before telling an Albany/All bunny/All moose joke that earned groans and chuckles from the audience.

    A cover of The Beat’s “Mirror in the Bathroom” was an early highlight, taking the narcissistic 1980 song out for an extended spin. “David Makalaster,” the Purple Onion track, followed, with Claypool Lennon Delirium composition “Blood and Rockets: Movement I, Saga of Jack Parsons – Movement II Too the Moon” closing a ‘short but didn’t feel short’ 60-minute set.

    With Harry Waters – son of Roger – helming the keys, set 2 began with a full rendition of Pink Floyd’s Animals, the five song suite never missed a mark, Claypool donning a pig mask while switching to stand up bass.

    A pair of songs from Les Claypool and the Holy Mackerel – “Precipitation” and “Calling Kyle” would follow, with “D’s Diner” closing the second set with audience callbacks, whispered lyrics, and xylophone throughout.

    King Crimson’s “Thela Hun Ginjeet,” a song that Claypool and his Frog Brigade kicked off the main stage at the first Bonnaroo (and the incredible DVD as well) would drive the energy of the audience to 11, peppering in “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” teases. As the band left the stage, walk out music of “Pure Imagination” played, calling back to Claypool’s memorable Primus and the Chocolate Factory tour.

    A can’t miss tour, the Frog Brigade will be at The Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ on October 24 before heading to Hulaween and ending the tour at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on Halloween.

    Les Claypool and his Frog Brigade – Palace Theatre, Albany – Friday, October 20, 2023

    Set 1: When Johnny Comes Marching Home, Cosmic Highway, Up on the Roof, Mirror in the Bathroom, David Makalaster, Blood and Rockets: Movement I, Saga of Jack Parsons – Movement II Too the Moon

    Set 2: Pigs on the Wing, Part 1, Dogs, Pigs (Three Different Ones), Sheep, Pigs on the Wing, Part 2, Precipitation, Calling Kyle, One Step Beyond, Buzzards of Green Hill, D’s Diner

    Encore: Thela Hun Ginjeet, Pure Imagination

    Photos by Derek Java

    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany
    les claypool albany

  • Bad Bunny Enlists Mick Jagger, Lady Gaga, Pedro Pascal on SNL

    Reggaeton artist Bad Bunny made his third ever appearance on Saturday Night Live and first as host and musical guest, bringing along a few friends for sketches that were spoken in equal parts English and Spanish.

    bad bunny snl

    Inviting out Pedro Pascal – who hosted SNL for the first time last year – in the monologue, Bad Bunny began the show saying “My name is Benito and I am very excited to be here on Sabado Gigante“ a nod to the long-running Univision Saturday night variety show. Bad Bunny took aim at the GRAMMY Awards in his monologue, opting for [Speaking Sexier Language] instead of [Speaking in non-English] when subtitles appeared, before Pascal translated for the audience into English, creating a bilingual monologue, with Bad Bunny offering hugs and kisses to his people in Puerto Rico to close.

    A native of Almirante Sur, Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny referenced Puerto Rican and Spanish culture in sketches including “Rap Battle” with Bad Bunny as ‘Fuego,’ as a Spanish King in “The Age of Discovery” (featuring Fred Armisen) and “Telenovela” which featured an unexpected appearance from Mick Jagger.

    Lady Gaga surprised fans when she introduced (in Spanish) Bad Bunny as musical guest who performed “Un Preview” in a white cloaked stage with only a coin operated horse ride moving to the beat.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkSnz-5C5C8

    Featured player Marcello Hernández had ample air time for this episode, his Dominican/Cuban roots providing multiple opportunities to speak Spanish and reference Hispanic culture. In the sketch of the night, Bad Bunny dresses up as his tia and Pascal as his mother, Hernández parodied bringing a white girlfriend (new featured player Chloe Troast) home and the Spanglish conversations that ensued.

    Bad Bunny’s second song “Monaco” from Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana began with two violinists before revealing a long dinner table with Bad Bunny in the center around masked dancers on each side.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1ArZCGbIr0

    Mick Jagger would return one more time in a cringey “Convent Meeting” as an irresistible Sister Kevin.

    Next week, Saturday Night Live‘s Halloween episode will feature comedian Nate Bargatze with musical guest Foo Fighters.

  • Sam Gellaitry’s ‘Under the Illusion’ Unleashes Musical Magic at Elsewhere Brooklyn

    The night at Elsewhere Brooklyn with Sam Gellaitry showcasing his newest EP, Under the Illusion, was nothing short of a mesmerizing musical journey. On October 13th, the venue buzzed with anticipation as Gellaitry took the stage and immediately immersed the crowd in a soundscape that can only be described as pure auditory bliss.

    sam gellaitry under the illusion

    Under the Illusion is a testament to Gellaitry’s evolution as a musician. The EP seamlessly blends elements of electronic, hip-hop, and R&B, creating a tapestry of sound that is both innovative and emotionally resonant. Each track on the EP carries a unique flavor, yet they all maintain a consistent, ethereal quality that captivates the listener. From the dreamy “Alone” to the groove-laden “Think I Know,” the EP takes the audience on a sonic journey that transcends genres.

    What truly sets Gellaitry apart is his ability to connect with the crowd. Throughout the performance, he exuded an infectious energy and passion for his craft. His interactions with the audience were genuine and intimate, making everyone feel like they were part of a shared musical experience. His stage presence was magnetic, and it was evident that he was pouring his heart and soul into every beat and melody.

    sam gellaitry under the illusion

    Elsewhere Brooklyn provided the perfect backdrop for this musical odyssey. The venue’s industrial-chic aesthetic and state-of-the-art sound system were a perfect complement to Gellaitry’s avant-garde style. The crowd’s energy was electric, with fans of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate the music. The atmosphere was both vibrant and laid-back, creating an environment where people could lose themselves in the music and dance the night away.

    sam gellaitry under the illusion

    Gellaitry’s performance of Under the Illusion was a testament to his artistic prowess and ability to connect with his audience on a profound level. The night at Elsewhere Brooklyn will undoubtedly be remembered as a magical evening where music transcended boundaries, and the crowd’s energy and vibes were a testament to the unifying power of sound. Under the Illusion by Sam Gellaitry was not just a collection of songs; it was an experience that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be there.

    Images by @adrian_hernandezz

    sam gellaitry under the illusion
    sam gellaitry under the illusion
    sam gellaitry under the illusion

  • Watch Steve Conte’s Video For New Single “Girl With No Name”

    NYC-based singer-songwriter Steve Conte released a new official music video for his latest single, “Girl With No Name.” The video was filmed on the streets of New York, and shows iconic locations such as Times Square and the famous Flatiron Building.

    Steve Conte, Girl With No Name

    Conte wrote “Girl With No Name” based on ideas of missed opportunity and attraction. He began writing it in 1984 and finished the track for his upcoming album. He cited influences such as The Beatles, XTC, and Diana Ross and the Supremes.

    This is a song of regret…about missed opportunity and lack of skills in meeting someone you’re attracted to. When putting my new album together, I was looking for songs that would fit nicely alongside the songs that Andy Partridge and I had written for it and I kept thinking of this one. I wrote it back in 1984 and never forgot it – which was a good sign.

    Steve Conte
    Steve Conte, Photo Credit: Anja Van Ast, 2020
    Photo Credit: Anja Van Ast, 2020

    Steve Conte is known as a longtime member of the rock group New York Dolls, as well as working alongside Paul Simon, Billy Squier, and Peter Wolf. Conte expanded internationally in recent years, working alongside Japanese composer Yoko Kanno to write soundtracks for anime series’.

  • Hannah Diamond’s “Perfect Picture”: A Night of Empowerment at Elsewhere Brooklyn

    On October 14, a cool Brooklyn night, Elsewhere played host to an intimate and emotionally charged performance by the sensational Hannah Diamond, as she unveiled her latest album, Perfect Picture. The evening was a celebration of empowerment, self-confidence, and the universal struggles we all face in terms of self-perception, all wrapped in a visually and sonically captivating experience.

    Images by Adrian Hernandez

    The tracklist of Perfect Picture takes us on a touching journey, each song delving into the complex web of emotions that revolve around self-identity and the pursuit of perfection. The album kicks off with the enchanting title track Perfect Picture, which immediately sets the tone for the night. As Hannah’s ethereal vocals blend with mesmerizing visuals, it’s clear that she is on a mission to explore the intricacies of human self-perception.

    The theme of empowerment is prevalent throughout the album, and songs like “Affirmations” and “Unbreakable” stand out as anthems of self-confidence and resilience. These tracks evoke feelings of strength, freedom, and the realization that true beauty lies in embracing our flaws and imperfections. Hannah Diamond’s lyrics are a beacon of hope, reminding us that our self-worth should not be contingent on societal standards but on our ability to love ourselves.

    The show was an intimate affair, which perfectly suited the album’s personal and vulnerable themes. The crowd’s energy was electric, with fans singing along and dancing in unison to the infectious beats. It was evident that Hannah had a genuine connection with her audience, making the performance feel more like an interactive conversation between friends rather than a traditional concert.

    Hannah Diamond’s stage presence was nothing short of mesmerizing. She effortlessly navigated between her hit singles and the deep cuts from “No FX,” and it was clear that she was emotionally invested in every note she sang. Her humility and vulnerability on stage resonated deeply with the audience, as she encouraged everyone to embrace themselves.

    Perfect Picture is an album that delves into the essence of human existence, examining the power of self-love and the beauty of imperfection. Hannah Diamond’s performance at Elsewhere Brooklyn was a testament to the depth of her artistry and her ability to connect with her fans on a profound level. In an industry that often perpetuates unrealistic ideals of beauty and perfection, Hannah’s music serves as a beacon of authenticity and self-empowerment, reminding us all that we are, indeed, perfect just the way we are.

  • Cooking with Fire: Kitchen Dwellers Bring the Heat in Cohoes

    Full of gritty energy, thoughtful storytelling, extremely tight improvisation, a spectacular light show, and a palpable connection to their audience, Kitchen Dwellers brought their unique brand of psychedelic bluegrass to Cohoes, NY on Thursday, October 12th.

    No strangers to the Capital Region, Kitchen Dwellers have played the area many times over the years, but the second show of their 2023 fall tour would be their first at the historic Cohoes Music Hall, one of the oldest (and allegedly haunted) venues in the country. Delivering an absolute scorching performance, the level of musicianship on display was scary good.

    Kitchen Dwellers made their Cohoes Music Hall debut on 10/12/2023.

    Showing up to the corner of Remsen and Cayuga, you were instantly met with heady vibes from the municipal lot as the jokers and tokers greeted one another.  There was a laid back feeling of familiarity and optimism as people of all ages lined up to check out the plethora of band merch and the gorgeous limited edition show poster designed by artist Dan Dippel. Fans who got there early enough were treated to a delicious appetizer from the young-and-hungry opening act, Fireside Collective from Asheville, NC. 

    After a brief set change, Capital Region show promoter Greg Bell of Guthrie Bell Productions took center stage to welcome everyone to the Cohoes Music Hall and wax nostalgic for a moment before introducing Kitchen Dwellers to a massive ovation. Wasting no time serving up the main course, the band set the tone early with a “Sundown” opener, the first of five songs that would be played from their latest album, Wise River. They had the crowd captivated from the very first note.

    Kitchen Dwellers (L-R): Max Davies, Torrin Daniels, Joe Funk, and Shawn Swain performing on 10/12/23.

    Consisting of Torrin Daniels on banjo, Joe Funk on bass, Max Davies on guitar, and Shawn Swain on mandolin, describing their inspired sound is no easy task. Utilizing traditional string instruments, adding a few effect pedals and foregoing a drummer, their expansive playing is full of character, bombastic banjo riffs, lightning fast licks, virtuosic finger picking and foot-stomping grooves. These guys make the complex look effortless.  After squeezing “Their Names Are The Trees” into a “This Time” sandwich, the Kitchen Dwellers were cooking with pure gasoline as they alligatored “Smokestack” through a pair of choice covers – “Salt Creek” and “Alcohol in the Bloodstream.” Coming up for air to greet the audience and exchange some friendly banter about the proper pronunciation of Cohoes, the band would then invite Fireside Collective dobro player, Tommy Maher, to the stage for the remainder of the set. 

    Chest Fever: Fireside Collective’s Tommy Maher (dobro) joined in on the fun on 10/12/23.

    Taking control of the ship and guiding the band through the crowd-pleasing title track of 2019’s Muir Maid, upright bassist Joe Funk’s vocals sounded fantastic here, while the extended interplay and energy of Torrin’s flying dreadlocks and Maher’s youthful exuberance sent the room into a fever pitch. With the venue itself located just on the outskirts of Levon Country, perhaps that was their intention all along, as a well-placed cover of The Band’s classic “Chest Fever” would bring the opening frame to a close.

    Kitchen Dwellers’ Joe Funk croons away in Cohoes, NY 10/12/23.

    When Kitchen Dwellers hit the stage for round 2, it didn’t take them long to address the elephant in the room, or in this case, the ghost. Nicknamed “The girl who made vaudeville famous,” many believe the spirit of Eva Tanguay has haunted the Cohoes Music Hall since her death in 1947.  Often “felt” hanging around just off stage left and sometimes in the center of the balcony’s second row, the band acknowledged this bit of folklore by offering up their song “Ghost in a Bottle” in tribute.

    Ghost in a Bottle: Kitchen Dwellers make an offering to the ghost of Eva Tanguay on 10/12/23.

    The real meat and potatoes of the set would come next as the Dwellers found their groove on “Stand at Ease” which seamlessly segued into a cover of “White Freightliner Blues.” Showing a deep respect to their roots by weaving together a tapestry of their influences, the dexterity and speed at which these guys play make it almost impossible to stand still. After a stellar version of “Gypsy,” the band gave a special shoutout to a group of friends who traveled there from Vermont, allegedly breaking the record for the most people you can cram into a van, something which Torrin found debatable. Announcing they weren’t going to do the typical encore thing and that they’d just play until the venue kicked them out, the enthusiastic crowd were then treated to a sizzling combination of “Mountain” > “Drowning (… Again)” > “Ebenezer’s Winter” to bring the tasty night of galaxy-grass jams to a close just after midnight. 

    Putting a fresh spin on an old genre and blending the past with the future,  Kitchen Dwellers rose to the occasion in Cohoes and threw down a performance that will be talked about for years to come. Upon leaving the Cohoes Music Hall, perhaps one excited fan summed it up best, saying “That was the best $20 I’ve spent in a very long time.“

    With fall tour just getting underway, fans in New York won’t need to wait long to catch them again. Kitchen Dwellers have been tapped by Twiddle to take part in their final shows next month before going on an indefinite hiatus. The sentimental sendoff will take place at the historic Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. For more details on tour dates and tickets head to kitchendwellers.com.

    Kitchen Dwellers | October 12, 2023 | Cohoes Music Hall | Cohoes, NY

    Set 1: Sundown, This Time > Their Names Are the Trees > This Time, Smokestack>Salt Creek >Alcohol In the Bloodstream, Muir Maid * > Chest Fever *

    Set 2: Ghost in the Bottle > Cuckoo’s Nest [Traditional] > Ghost In the Bottle, Stand At Ease > White Freightliner Blues, Gypsy, Mountain > Drowning (… Again) > Ebenezer’s Winter

    * Featuring Tommy Maher of Fireside Collective on Dobro