Category: Features

In Conversation with Tyjhier: A Syracuse-Born Singer and Songwriter

In the heart of Syracuse, a remarkable artist has been cultivating a sound that defies boundaries and resonates with raw authenticity. Tyjhier, a native of the Salt City, has not only harnessed the diverse cultural tapestry of her hometown but has also drawn inspiration from her experiences to craft a distinct musical journey. Tyjhier shares her unique story with NYS Music, reflecting on her hometown’s influence, the evolution of her music, and the exciting future she envisions as she embarks on a promising career as a singer and songwriter.

Born and raised in Syracuse, Tyjhier reminisces about how her hometown and its unique culture have deeply influenced her music journey. She acknowledges the challenges of life in Syracuse, stating, “It’s not always easy being from here; the people that live here know what I mean.” Despite the hurdles, Tyjhier finds inspiration in her hometown’s experiences.

“I surely have taken many of my experiences growing up in Syracuse and used the memories, both happy and sad, within my music. Syracuse is always going to be home no matter how far I go.”
Tyjhier

A Lifelong Dream Realized

For Tyjhier, becoming a singer and songwriter was more of a calling than a choice. She reflects on her earliest memories of music, saying, “I used to sing songs with my dad on top of the coffee table all the time.” Tyjhier’s musical journey began as soon as she could talk, with the very first song she sang being Erykah Badu’s “Orange Moon.” She recalls her childhood filled with singing, songwriting, and even creating full concerts with her dad. She mentions, “Singing and songwriting have been ingrained in who I am for as long as I can remember.”

The Thrill of the First Live Performance

Tyjhier vividly remembers her first live performance at DROM, a renowned New York City venue, with MajorStage. She describes the lead-up to the event as a mix of emotions, admitting, “I was extremely anxious about the gig leading up to the performance and on the day of.” The experience involved a multitude of behind-the-scenes logistics, from promotion to equipment setup. She adds, “I didn’t want to mess anything up behind the scenes, but I also didn’t want to let all the stress behind the scenes bleed into my actual performance.” However, once she took the stage, the anxieties faded, and she felt like a seasoned performer.

“It was an amazing feeling to have other musicians not only singing along but coming up to me at the end and telling me what songs they loved because at that point I didn’t have anything released. It was a blast, and I honestly couldn’t wait to do it again.”
Tyjhier

Describing her music is no easy feat for Tyjhier, as she artfully blends elements of R&B and Neo Soul into her unique sound. These genres have been pivotal in her life, resonating not only with their musical styles but also with their cultural significance. Tyjhier draws inspiration from an array of legendary artists, including Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu, Frank Ocean, and more. She explains, “I aspire to have a unique sound like that.”

The In–Betweens: A Journey of Growth

Tyjhier’s debut project, The In-Betweens, has been a profound journey that has resonated with listeners, amassing over 40,000 streams on various platforms. She reflects on the project’s inception, sharing, “At first, the idea wasn’t fully fleshed out, and some of the songs on the project weren’t completed, but it started off with the shower sessions.” These sessions served as a bridge between the album’s concepts and themes. She delves into the deeper meaning behind the project, stating, “I really wanted The In–Betweens to be a journey of not only growth over time and growth through life experience but to show that certain things can’t just be rushed through.” Tyjhier’s music provides solace and empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace the in-between moments in life.

In the near future, fans and the music world can anticipate more music from Tyjhier. She’s already working on new material, pondering whether her next project will continue the narrative started with “The In-Betweens” or venture into uncharted territory. Additionally, Tyjhier envisions live performances, collaborations with fellow artists, and the possibility of taking her music on the road. With her distinctive sound and compelling narrative, Tyjhier is poised for a promising future in the music industry.

October 23, 2023
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)

October 23, 2023
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

October 22, 2023
Nora Polinnia Releases Resilient Sophomore EP “Present Chronicles”

Nora Polinnia’s sophomore EP, Present Chronicles, is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a heartfelt expression of resilience and a call to action. While residing in New York City, Nora’s music transcends borders and languages, making her an influential voice in the fight for justice.

In her own words, “Yes, indeed, there is a time and place for groovy, happy music – such was my first EP. However, I think that now it is time to clarify my beliefs and the beliefs of those I hold close.”

Present Chronicles is an EP that came to life unexpectedly, driven by the collective pain of Nora’s home country, Ukraine. As she watched the world around her, Nora couldn’t help but wonder how she could make a difference, how she could channel her anger and communicate the Ukrainian people’s struggles to the rest of the world.

The result is a musical journey that delves into themes of resilience, loneliness, betrayal, and the responsibilities that come with our heritage. It’s an exploration of the human experience during times when accepting reality is not an option.

“Some of the songs I wrote didn’t seem war-related to me at all. They didn’t feel like they encapsulated the message I wanted to put out. Some I wrote before the war even began, but soon I realized that they are very relevant. They address all of the emotional factors and burdens that came into play because of what was happening.”
Nora Polinnia

Nora’s Present Chronicles doesn’t aim to invoke pity; it seeks to reveal the anger and resilience of the Ukrainian people and expose the reality of the Russian invasion. Tracks like ‘KGB‘ on the EP boldly challenge Russian propaganda and use ironic lyrics to mock the regime.

This musical project, born out of a deep sense of purpose, carries a message of hope and strength. Nora hopes that her music will serve as a legacy, a testament to the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people.

Nora Polinnia’s artistry is a reflection of the power of music to inspire change, and her music carries a message of hope and resilience that resonates deeply with her audience.

Listen To “Present Chronicles” Here.

October 22, 2023
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

October 22, 2023
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.

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.

October 22, 2023
The Darkness Shine Bright at Terminal 5

Celebrating the 20^th anniversary of their platinum-selling debut album Permission to Land, The Darkness flew into Terminal 5 this past Wednesday night, October 18 at a 3,000 capacity concert hall located in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen – for the twelfth layover on their massive, 52-date global trek.

For those unfamiliar, the British quartet of Justin Hawkins (vocals, guitar, keyboards), brother Dan Hawkins (guitar), Frankie Poullain (bass) and Rufus Tiger Taylor (drums), son of Queen’s Roger Taylor, erupted onto the music scene in 2003 with said album’s infectious hit single “I Believe In A Thing Called Love.”

Justin Hawkins of The Darkness | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

Providing opening support for The Darkness were Josh Dion (vocals, drums, keyboards) and Geoff Kraly (bass, modular synthesizer), better known as Paris Monster. Formed in 2012, the indie experimental duo and local natives hailing from Brooklyn took the stage promptly at 7:50 pm. Known for their musical virtuosity, Dion and Kraly play multiple instruments simultaneously and sound more like a quartet rather than just the two of them. As Hawkins would exude to the packed venue later in The Darkness’ set, “Frankie described it to me earlier. He says, ‘it sounds like aliens came down to Earth, listened to some of our music, and then decided to do their own version of it.’ Their fucking amazing. Paris Monster, it’s my favorite band.” The highlight of Paris Monster’s 40-minute, 10-song set was the closing number “A Vision Complete,” lifted from their debut EP It Once Had Been Kind released in 2013. For fans of the beat-driven, groove-based sound, inter-mixed with elements of funk and soul, I strongly urge you to check out their first full-length album entitled Lamplight (2019).

Paris Monster | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

With The Darkness’ stage crew having put the finishing touch to the set, all of whom donned matching navy blue boiler suits complete with their nickname on the back, Abba’s instrumental “Arrival” played on tape over the house PA. And right on schedule, at a few ticks past 9;00 pm, the house lights went dark and the rock and roll outfit from ‘the other side of the pond’ appeared from the shadows.

Dan Hawkins of The Darkness | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

Playing 2003 Permission to Land’s album in its entirety (and according to Justin, “in no particular order”), the 90-minute set kicked off with “Black Shuck,” a song about the Old English legend of a ghostly black dog roaming the English coastline – which actually is the lead track from their debut album. Before exploding into “Get Your Hands Off My Woman,” Justin spotted a fan along the rail sporting a brilliant, Queen-branded Hawaiian shirt that he confessed has “coveted for many moons.” After asking that the shirt be taken off and handed over, Justin quipped, “Thanks friend, you’re never going to see it again. Cheers!”

Frankie Poullain of The Darkness | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

As the festive night ensued, Justin and his mates gifted the power ballad and fan favorite “Love Is Only a Feeling,” and then ripped through their pop anthem and smash hit “Friday Night,” backed by an exceptional Gotham audience who belted out the infectious chorus in unison. With the epic gig’s denouement upon us, Justin sang a beautiful rendition of “Happy Birthday” to Josh of Paris Monster, followed by “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” – sans audience members taking pictures or video with their phones – as per Justin’s request.

Rufus Tiger Taylor of The Darkness | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

After taking a few moments off stage for everyone to catch a collective breath, The Darkness triumphantly returned to the stage rocking silk bathrobes. As Justin introduced the band before commencing the penultimate track “I Love You 5 Times,” there had been some personnel reshuffling – brother Dan was now behind the kit, Frankie had taken up an acoustic guitar, Rufus had a bass in his hands and their guitar tech, Softy, was seated at the Mellotron. The night concluded at 10:30 pm, but not before Justin majestically rode atop the shoulders of a roadie through the floor crowd during the solo to “Love on the Rocks With No Ice,” which was preceded by an impromptu jam of Don McLean’s “American Pie” (and not the full version that Justin had jokingly promised!).

Justin Hawkins of The Darkness | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger

Hawkins is the quintessential embodiment of the rock star persona, and per usual, he was at the top of his game on ‘hump day.’ His flamboyant, explosive on-stage energy was truly a spectacle to behold. Equipped with a signature falsetto and exquisitely delivered guitar solos featuring an intricate fingerpicking style, Hawkins gives The Darkness a magnificent pageantry that stands up in comparison to the likes of his biggest influences, notably Bon Scott, Steven Tyler, Robert Plant and Mick Jagger. Whether it be his dramatic gesticulations, a high-flying leap off the drum riser that would make David Lee Roth proud, or a show of strength by holding a self-supported handstand for what seemed like an eternity, he exhibited true showmanship and an enduring passion for his craft.

Watch The Darkness perform a cover of Radioheads’ “Street Spirit (Fade Out),” immediately followed by “Holding My Own” here:

This past October 6^th, an expanded edition of Permission To Land was dropped by the band as a five-LP package, a four-CD+DVD package, a double-CD package, as well as across various digital streaming platforms. Fans of The Darkness can also look forward to a feature-length documentary dubbed “Welcome To The Darkness” coming to cinemas for one night only, on November 9^th, in the UK and Ireland. Distributed by Lightbulb Film Distribution and directed by renowned photographer Simon Emmett, the film is a comeback tale of a “cult band” in search of its past glory that will also be available on digital download and Blu-ray beginning December 4^th.

Paris Monster Setlist: The Unclean > Laugh it Off > Andalusia > Hot Canyon Air > Ape > I’m Not Gonna Miss This Dive > Grandma > Darkest Days > Had Damon Caught His Sloane > A Vision Complete

The Darkness Setlist: Black Shuck > Get Your Hands Off My Woman > Growing on Me > The Best of Me > Makin’ Out > Givin’ Up > Love Is Only a Feeling > Curse of the Tollund Man > Stuck in a Rut > How Dare You Call This Love? > Street Spirit (Fade Out) > Holding My Own > Friday Night > Happy Birthday > I Believe in a Thing Called Love > Encore: I Love You 5 Times > Love on the Rocks With No Ice

UPCOMING WORLD TOUR DATES

10/21/23 – Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
10/22/23 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
11/07/23 – Berlin, Germany @ Admiralspalast
11/08/23 – Hamburg, Germany @ Markthalle
11/09/23 – Köln, Germany @ Essigfabrik
11/11/23 – München, Germany @ Technikum
11/13/23 – Ciampino, Italy @ Orion Live Club
11/14/23 – Milan, Italy @ Alcatraz
11/15/23 – Nonantola, Italy @ VOX CLUB
11/17/23 – Prattleln, Switzerland @ Konzertfabrik Z7
11/18/23 – Luxembourg City, Luxembourg @ den Atelier
11/20/23 – Rubigen, Switzerland @ Muhle Hunziken
11/22/23 – Bruxelles, Belgium @ AB
11/23/23 – Paris, France @ La Cigale
11/24/23 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Melkweg
12/02/23 – Belfast, Northern Ireland @ The Telegraph Building
12/03/23 – Dublin, Ireland @ 3Olympia Theatre
12/05/23 – Edinburgh, Scotland @ 02 Academy
12/07/23 – Newcastle Upon Tyne, England @ O2 City Hall
12/08/23 – Norwich, England @ UEA LCR Norwich
12/09/23 – London, England @ Roundhouse
12/11/23 – Glasgow, Scotland @ Barrowland Ballroom
12/12/23 – Manchester, England @ New Century Hall
12/14/23 – Bristol, England @ Bristol Beacon
12/15/23 – Nottingham, England @ Rock City
12/16/23 – Wolverhampton, England @ Wulfrun Hall
12/18/23 – Leeds, England @ O2 Academy
12/19/23 – Nottingham, England @ Rock City
12/20/23 – Brighton, England @ Brighton Dome
12/22/23 – London, England @ Roundhouse
01/26/24 – Wellington, New Zealand @ The Opera House
01/27/24 – Auckland, New Zealand @ Powerstation
01/30/24 – Adelaide, Australia @ Hindley Street Music Hall
02/01/24 – Fremantle, Australia @ Metropolis
02/03/24 – West Melbourne, Australia @ Festival Hall
02/07/24 – Brisbane, Australia @ The Fortitude Music Hall
02/09/24 – Bruce, Australia @ UC Refectory
02/10/24 – Moore Park, Australia @ Horden Pavilion
03/02/24 – Miami, FL @ Monsters of Rock Cruise

PARIS MONSTER

THE DARKNESS

October 21, 2023
Shower Curtain Releases Cat-Inspired Single And New Music Video

Brazilian NYC-based band Shower Curtain dropped their first single in two years, titled “Edgar.” The group released an official music video shot in New York City, following lead vocalist Victoria Winter’s cat Edgar’s point of view.

The track approaches a heavy topic, as Edgar faces many medical issues. However, the music video seeks to create a lighter tone by playing with perspective: the video shifts from following the cat’s point of view at floor level to overhead shots of people searching for him.

“Edgar” is a dreamy, melancholic rock track that shows strong, deliberate use of intense guitar riffs, as well as moments where the song pulls back to showcase clear emotion.

Photo Credit: Juliette Boulay

Shower Curtain recently evolved from being Victoria Winter’s solo project to adding musicians Jill Olesen on bass, Ethan Williams on guitar, and Sean Terrell on drums.

It feels very liberating to share this song with the world. Not only is it marking a new phase for the project but I think an overall process of maturing as a creative, letting go of the old aesthetic and sound that defined Shower Curtain when I lived in Brazil. The new sound is of course a reflection of the project evolving from a solo project into a band, and the band’s contribution to this song is evident in the instrumentation.
Victoria Winter

Shower Curtain is currently focusing on their first album, set to release sometime in 2024. In addition, they will play a celebratory show at Brooklyn venue Trans Pecos on November 9 to mark their resurgence as a group. Shower Curtain is Victoria Winter (vocals), Jill Olesen (bass), Ethan Williams (guitar), and Sean Terrell (drums).

SHOWER CURTAIN LIVE

Nov

9 – Trans Pecos – Brooklyn, NY

17 – Wonka Bar – Curitiba, BR

19 – Balaclava Festival – São Paulo, BR

October 21, 2023
Oktoberfest Hosts Local Gospel and Soul Bands at Buffalo Central Terminal

The Buffalo Central Terminal will host its infamous Oktoberfest on Sunday, October 22, with live music from local bands featuring southern soul, blues, hip-hop, pop-rock, and gospel-inspired sets.

Get ready for a day of autumnal fun with live music and delicious treats at this year’s Oktoberfest. This family-friendly fall festival blends contemporary elements with the traditional charms of Oktoberfest, promising an unforgettable experience with activities for all ages.

Live music: Enjoy music with DJ P followed by live performances featuring southern soul, blues, hip-hop, pop rock, and gospel-inspired sets from fantastic local bands. Don’t miss a Free Music Party at 1:00 pm, as well as Miller and The Other Sinners at 3:00 pm.

Bills Watch Party: Watch the Bills take on the Patriots at Oktoberfest’s Bills Watch Party. Cheer for your favorite team on several big screens. Wear your Bills gear, and don’t forget your lawn chairs and picnic blankets.

Petting Farm: Bring the kids for a chance to pet, feed, and learn about some adorable animals such as goats, pigs, tortoises, rabbits, and more, at the petting farm.

Hayrides: The hay wagon is back in the neighborhood. From 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, enjoy the crisp autumn air on a hayride around the historic Terminal. Pumpkin Decorating: Skip the mess and get creative at Oktoberfest’s no-carve pumpkin decorating station.

Local Food and Drinks: Indulge in your delicious fall favorites, from traditional Oktoberfest fare to plant-based foods, they have something for everyone. Oktoberfest vendors include sausages from Shish Kabob Heaven, plant-based treats from Avenue29 Foods, spice and flavor from KT Caribbean Cuisine, and artisan German cookies from Catering by Marjorie. Oktoberfest has your favorite local beer, wine, cider and MORE served up by Buffalo Brewing Company, Bully Hill Vineyards, Tree Hugger Hard Cider, Blue Groove Coffee, and Bubba’s Loganberry.

The Buffalo Central Terminal has also partnered with their neighbors at Buffalo Brewing Company to present “Central Terminale,” a pre-prohibition style amber ale brewed in honor of Oktoberfest at the Terminal. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of “Central Terminale” will support the rehabilitation of the Buffalo Central Terminal. The release of this special brew will happen this week at Buffalo Brewing Company’s Myrtle Avenue tap room.

“This partnership echoes our slogan ‘Good Neighbors, Great Beer.’ The Buffalo Central Terminal and our renovation of Schreiber Brewing run on parallel tracks. Even though each project is happening independent of one-another, they both will have a profound effect on Broadway-Fillmore and the East Side,” said John Domres, Jr., owner of Buffalo Brewing Company.

These events at Buffalo Central Terminal are all about uniting our diverse East Buffalo community. We’re creating an inclusive space right in our very own neighborhood where families can come together and celebrate the season without having to venture out of the heart of the city.” said Lindsey Taylor, events consultant for the Buffalo Central Terminal.
Lindsey Taylor, events consultant for the Buffalo Central Terminal

Buffalo Central Terminal’s Oktoberfest is the perfect opportunity to embrace the autumn spirit and create lasting memories with friends and family. So, bring your picnic blankets and lawn chairs to celebrate at the Buffalo Central Terminal on Sunday, October 22 from 11 am to 4 pm at 495 Paderweski Drive Buffalo. Tickets are free for all October events at the Buffalo Central Terminal.

For more information and event updates, visit the Buffalo Central Terminal website.

October 20, 2023
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.

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.

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.

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

October 20, 2023