NYS Music 2023

Category: Features

  • An Evening with Natalie Merchant and The Knights – Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center

    On the heels of releasing her eighth solo studio album on April 14, Keep Your Courage (Nonesuch Records), Natalie Merchant played the Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center for two consecutive sold-out shows this on the evenings of Friday, June 2 and Saturday, June 3.

    A huge fan of hers since the heyday of the 10,000 Maniacs in the late-1980s and early-1990s, I was “blessed and lucky” enough to be in attendance for the night two performance on June 3.

    natalie merchant and the knights

    At the midway point of a 45 date tour that shares the same name as her new album, the Jamestown, NY native brought her trademark, unmistakable alto chops to the Adrienne Arsht Stage, within the warm, wood veneer confines of the Starr Theater. In celebration of her first new material since 2017, Merchant has been performing several shows on the tour while backed by an orchestra. And Friday and Saturday’s concerts were no different as The Knights, a symphonic orchestral collective based in New York City and led by Associate Conductor Michael P. Atkinson, accompanied Natalie Merchant onstage for lush arrangements of career-spanning tunes.

    natalie merchant and the knights

    On an atypically chilly evening for late-spring on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, patrons began to congregate in Alice Tully Hall’s foyer one hour before showtime to relax with a drink from the bar and to check out the ‘merch’ table, which included signed vinyl copies of Keep Your Courage selling for $50. At 7:30 pm, doors to the 1,086-capacity theater renovated in 2006 and known for its exceptional acoustics officially opened. Walking into the theater alongside other attendees to take our respective seat in the orchestra section or balcony, we were immediately taken aback by the theater’s grandeur, particularly the venue’s centerpiece, a cathedral-sized, 19-ton, Swiss-made pipe organ built in 1974.

    natalie merchant and the knights

    Running slightly behind schedule, the house lights suddenly dimmed at 8:10 pm and the moment we all had been waiting for was finally upon us! Entering stage right in the first of two elegant, long skirt and blouse ensembles Merchant would be rocking tonight, the epic 23-song show comprised of two sets (separated by a 20-minute intermission) and an encore was officially underway with “Lulu,” from her self-titled studio album released in 2014. At the song’s conclusion, Merchant explained that she wrote the song about Louise Brooks, the American film actress and Jazz Age icon of the 1920s and 1930s who of all things, popularized the bob hairstyle.

    With a setlist mimicking Friday night’s selections and order (despite Merchant and The Knights reportedly sound checking “Seven Years” and “My Skin” at rehearsals earlier in the day), Merchant’s voice was in top form, like a fine wine, as she gracefully danced, twirled and flowed from one end of the stage to the other, frequently interacting with her beaming audience.

    Speaking of superb vocals, Merchant was joined onstage by two back-up vocalists for several songs, including “Lady Bird,” “Break Your Heart,” “Big Girls,” “Come On, Aphrodite,” “Kind & Generous” and “Tower of Babel.” One of the vocalists who teamed with Merchant during both Lincoln Center performances was Abena Koomson-Davis, a renowned performer and the musical director of the Resistance Revival Chorus, who also sings two duets on 2023’s Keep Your Courage.

    As The Knights continued to compliment Merchant’s repertoire of current and past array of heartfelt melodies Saturday night, her innocent charm was palpable. Having matured into a beautifully refined artist over the course of nearly four decades, her songs have the ability to touch the inner soul of her listeners. Tonight, during “Beloved Wife” (Tigerlily, 1995) and “Sister Tilly” (an homage to powerful women from Keep Your Courage), she pulled on her own heartstrings as she was brought to tears during each of these emotional song deliveries. Poking fun at herself as she continued to wipe away the tears, the 2 hour, 30 minute display of live solo material was unfortunately nearing its climax.

    The second set consummated with the entire house rising to their collective feet for a rousing rendition of “Kind & Generous” (Ophelia, 1998), followed by thunderous applause which lasted for minutes until Merchant appeased her adoring fans for a three song encore consisting of “Tower of Babel” (Keep Your Courage), fan-favorite “Carnival” (Tigerlily) and “These are Days” (Our Time in Eden, 1992), the lone 10,000 Maniacs number of the night. Before commencing the encore, Merchant quipped, “You are [all] gluttons! A three hour show, that’s what you all get, like Bruce Springsteen!”

    Well past 11:00 pm, Natalie Anne Merchant fans of all ages, including a generous sampling of teenagers with their Gen X parents, gleefully filed out of the concert hall and into the Gotham night. Despite all of us going our separate way, we unanimously agreed on one thing – that it’s true, we are all “blessed and lucky” to have witnessed firsthand an emotionally-captivating performance by an artist that oozed both life and passion.

    The North American leg of Merchant’s Keep Your Courage Tour will resume in St. Louis, Missouri on June 22. And in case you missed either of her Lincoln Center shows in the Big Apple, or you just need another dose of ‘90s nostalgia, Merchant will be back in the tri-state area to perform with a full orchestra again at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, New Jersey on June 25. The thirty-sixth and final show in the lower 48 will occur on September 30 in Los Angeles, California.

    Following a much-needed respite during October, Merchant will then continue her tour abroad with nine more shows, including five across the pond in the United Kingdom, as well as stopovers in Dublin and Amsterdam, with the tour finale scheduled for November 14 in Brussels, Belgium.

    Setlist

    Set 1: Lulu > Maggie and Milly and Molly and May > The Feast of St. Valentine > The Worst Thing > Frozen Charlotte > Ladybird > Giving Up Everything > The Letter > Narcissus > Break Your Heart > Big Girls

    Set 2: River > Ophelia > Guardian Angel > Beloved Wife > Sister Tilly > Wonder > Come On, Aphrodite > Life Is Sweet > Kind & Generous

    Encore: Tower of Babel > Carnival > These Are Days (10,000 Maniacs song)

  • In Focus: Noah Kahan Dazzles Sold-Out Audience at Beak and Skiff

    A picturesque late spring afternoon yielded way to a beautiful evening of music at Beak and Skiff, in Lafayette on Saturday, as Noah Kahan brought his Stick Season tour to the apple orchard.  With the tour lauded as one of the summer’s hottest tickets, the event sold-out well in advance of the show.

    Kahan, a native of Strafford, Vermont, is known for his blending of folk-rock and pop music.  His first full length studio album, Busyhead, was released in 2019.  But it was during the Covid pandemic when Kahan’s popularity began to really soar.  He first released the Cape Elizabeth EP in April of 2020.  Following its release, and during the height of the pandemic, Kahan would retreat home to Vermont and write his most successful album to date, Northern Attitude (2022).  The album, which leans heavily on themes of mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, feeling homesick, and childhood nostalgia, has earned Kahan much critical acclaim and a devoted fan base all across the age spectrum.  

    The evening kicked off with a set by Richy Mitch & The Coal Miners.  The folk-rock band from Montana was joining Kahan for a special, one-off concert.  The four-piece band delighted early arriving concert goers with a forty five minute set of folk-rock jams.  

    During the stage change-over between sets, excitement in the concert field was at a high.  Fans packed the area in front of the stage, and shouted the singer’s name.  Each crew member received a small roar from the crowd as they made their way across the stage, placing set-lists and water bottles.  Finally the house lights dimmed, and the band took to the stage. After a brief instrumental piece, Noah Kahan took to the stage with a mandolin and launched into the crowd favorite “All My Love”.   The audience exploded with excitement, and sang along to every word.  Impressively, the singing did not stop after the first song.  The majority of the crowd sang along, every word, to every song.  Kahan kept the energy running for the first portion of the set, playing tracks “Everywhere, Everything,” and “She Calls Me Back”.

    As the setlist moved on, Kahan would touch on heavier subject matters.  Kahan, a staunch advocate of mental health awareness, would sing openly about his own struggles with mental illness on many songs.  He sang in loving memory for a friend who passed too soon, on “Carlo’s Song”.  During this song the concert field would glow in a sea of green (for mental health awareness) as fans held lights up from their cellphones.  Noah Kahan would sing of substance abuse and finding sobriety on the track “Orange Juice.”  Perhaps the most power full moment of the night would be when Kahan returned for an encore.  He would open the three song encore with “The View Between Villages”, a reflective and nostalgic track written about an emotional return to Kahan’s childhood home town many years later.  The song would build with emotion until its epic climax, and the audience did not miss a beat, singing along to every word.  Kahan would finish the night with crowd favorites “Stick Season” and “Mess”.

    If you missed out on this performance, you are in luck.  Kahan has already scheduled a return visit to Syracuse, at the Lakeview Amphitheater on September 1.

  • Ice-T Rocks The Bushwick Collective Block Party

    Ice-T rocked the stage at The 12th annual Bushwick Collective Block Party held on June 3rd in Brooklyn. The party proved to be an electrifying celebration of art, music, and community. Ice-T, the legendary rapper, actor, and cultural icon, headlined the concert and delivered a memorable performance that left the audience in awe.

    Ice-T, who has been a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene for over three decades, has consistently pushed boundaries with his thought-provoking lyrics. As he stepped onto the stage, the cheers and applause erupted, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Ice-T wasted no time in taking the audience on a musical journey through his extensive catalog. He seamlessly transitioned from classic hits like “Colors” and “6 in the Mornin’” to newer tracks that showcased his continued relevance in the ever-evolving rap landscape. He also brought a few special guests out including Kool Keith and Treach from Naughty by Nature.

    The 12th annual Bushwick Collective Block Party was not only about Ice-T, though. Dres from Black Sheep had a set as well, as did Tony Touch and Statik Selektah who also both brought guests. Coney Island native Nems made a quick appearance during Tony Touch’s set. Statik brought out some younger acts like Kota the Friend and Recoechi as well as Termanology. Shade 45 talent D-Stroy hosted the event and DJ Evil Dee helped keep the crowd amped with a mix of classic hip hop hits. The collective talent on display was a testament to the hip-hop spirited community that continues to thrive in Brooklyn.

    The event’s organizer, Joe Ficalora, created this open air gallery know as The Bushwick Collective over ten years ago. There are many murals of fallen hip-hop artists that pay tribute all around the area. Some include Guru, Nipsey Hussle, Biggie and Dave from De La Soul. The collective has transformed Bushwick into a hub of artistic expression. The annual block party serves as a culmination of their efforts, bringing together artists, musicians, and residents to celebrate the neighborhood’s vibrant spirit.

    This is an important year for hip-hop. It marks the 50th Anniversary, a significant milestone that pays tribute to the genre’s enduring influence and cultural significance. From its birth in the streets of the Bronx to its domination of the global music scene, hip-hop has continuously challenged norms, and given voice to marginalized communities.

  • Rock City Junction Release Americana/Folk Single “Morning Sun” 

    Hudson Valley natives Rock City Junction have just released their newest single titled “Morning Sun,” the third single they have ever released. To support the upcoming release, the band will be touring throughout the Hudson Valley in early June. 

    Rock City Junction Release Third Single “Morning Sun” 

    Rock City Junction meets in the middle with soulful original songs and luscious instrumentation. Their latest releases such as “Corn Song” and “Souls Byond the Road” are uniquely beautiful, having aspects of a light summer day within the Hudson Valley itself.  

    Rock City Junction Release Third Single “Morning Sun” 

    This eclectic, harmony driven, Roots/Americana band is quickly becoming one of the premiere folk bands within the Hudson Valley. The band features three singer/songwriter/ instrumentalists such as David Chapman, Denise Parent, and Laura Leigh. Each artist plays a special part in combining to create the unique sound that Rock City Junction has to offer.

    Rock City Junction Release Third Single “Morning Sun” 

    Denise Parent has been a supreme artist, drummer, and singer in the north east jam band scene since 1993, and is currently touring the U.S in the only all-female Grateful Dead cover band, Brown Eyed Women. Denise released her debut album of her original songs in 2021 titled The Songs in my Heart. 

    David Chapman is an engineer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, renaissance-man who has held a commanding presence in the Hudson Valley Rock scene since the early 90’s, leading many bands such as Cold Flavor Repair, Rivergrass, The Working Dogs, and more.  

    Laura Leigh is the new darling of the Albany music scene. Laura released her first album of original music in 2021 which features evocative stories of small-town USA and echoes Appalachian, old-timey traditions and sounds.  

    UPCOMING SHOWS:  

    June 8th @ The Parish. New Paltz NY. 7pm 

    June 9th @ Unihog Hoosick Falls NY. 8pm 

    June 10th @ Argyle Brewing Company (The Depot). Cambridge NY. 6pm 

    Listen to Rock City Junction by clicking the link here. 

  • Rock Legends Styx Deliver Epic Performance at Artpark

    On Friday, June 2, renowned rock band Styx graced the stage at Artpark in Lewiston, NY, delivering an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia. The venue was packed to the brim, with an excited crowd eagerly awaiting the start of the show. Despite a brief ten-minute sprinkle of rain, the weather gods smiled upon us as the downpour held off, setting the stage for an extraordinary concert experience.

    Jet Black Roses
    Jet Black Roses

    The night began with an opening act called Jet Black Roses. They set the tone with their high-energy performance. Their melodic tunes and captivating stage presence effectively warmed up the audience, preparing them for the main event.

    As the lights dimmed, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air, and Styx burst onto the stage with a powerful rendition of “To Those”. Immediately capturing the hearts of the crowd. Styx wasted no time in launching into their arsenal of classic hits, delivering a charged and electric performance that showcased their exceptional musicianship and undeniable showmanship.

    The setlist for the evening was a carefully curated mix of beloved favorites and hidden gems, each song met with roaring applause and enthusiastic sing-alongs from the captivated audience. Timeless classics like “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” and “The Grand Illusion” transported fans back to an era filled with memories, while still resonating with a fresh and contemporary edge. It was a testament to Styx’s enduring legacy and their ability to connect with fans of all ages.

    Frontman Lawrence Gowan effortlessly commanded the stage throughout the night, his vocals soaring with power and emotion. Whether belting out the iconic chorus of “Come Sail Away” or delivering a soul-stirring rendition of “Lady,” Gowan’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. He even took a moment to showcase his own repertoire with a solo performance of “A Criminal Mind,” leaving the audience in awe and showering him with well-deserved praise.

    The band’s energy remained unwavering during the two-and-a-half-hour spectacle. Guitarist Tommy Shaw unleashed blistering solos and infectious riffs that ignited the crowd, while the rock-solid rhythm section of bassist Ricky Phillips and drummer Todd Sucherman provided a sturdy foundation for Styx’s dynamic sound. The band’s impeccable harmonies and instrumental prowess were on full display during epic tracks like “Crystal Ball” and “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man).”

    As the concert reached its crescendo, a thunderous roar of applause filled the air as Styx delved into their final songs. The encore, comprising the iconic “Mr. Roboto” and the timeless anthem “Renegade,” left the audience exhilarated and yearning for more.

    In conclusion, Styx’s concert at Artpark was an extraordinary experience. The band’s timeless music, coupled with their exceptional stage presence, created an electric atmosphere that had the crowd on their feet throughout the entire performance. Despite a packed venue and a brief encounter with rain, the night proceeded flawlessly, leaving concertgoers with indelible memories. Styx once again demonstrated why they are revered as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and their performance in Lewiston, NY, will undoubtedly be remembered as a pinnacle moment in their illustrious career.

  • Sarah Gargano Releases New Indie Folk Song “Self Diagnosis”

    Up-and-coming artist Sarah Gargano released her new single “Self Diagnosis” on June 2. The song features a unique melody and thoughtful lyrics that highlight Gargano’s distinctive sound.

    sarah gargano
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    Sarah Gargano is a 25 year old singer-songwriter born and raised in New York City. She started writing when she was fifteen and in 2018 released her first EP, Paper Girl. Furthermore, American Songwriter described Gargano as having “highly melodic acoustic-based songs consistently feature insightful and introspective lyrics that often tackle unusual subjects.”

    “Self Diagnosis” is an interesting song. The unique sound of the song draws even more focus to the lyrics which consist of self-reflective lines. The straightforward and literal lyrics allow the listener to see into Gargano’s headspace when writing the song. The song gets better with every listen as you register more of the lyrics.

    Other releases from Gargano include songs like “Deadline,” “Dear Juliet,” “London,” and, most recently, “Eating Peaches Daily.”

    Outside of music, Gargano has a degree in creative writing and sociology. She also enjoys frolicking in flower fields, crying over fictional characters, arts-n-crafting, taking pictures, antique hunting, journaling, and eating cookie dough. Additionally, Gargano runs her own small jewelry business on the side, known as The Crafty Songwriter.

    Gargano also opened for Jeffrey Lewis in Huddersfield, England and continues to play gigs in many different cities. Her next show is in Nashville, TN on July 11.

  • Superbloom Release New Rock Single “Head First”

    Brooklyn’s alternative rock band Superbloom returns to the stage with their newest rock single “Head First.” Along with this release, the band is getting ready for their upcoming release Life’s A Blur, out on June 8th with an EP release show at Brooklyn Made on June 10th. 

    Feverish and raw, and with an instantly memorable punch, Brooklyn’s latest rock phenomenon is a group of four guys making the songs that they want to hear. That means searing, overdriven guitars and thrashing drums; heavy, hearty riffs full of fire and flavor; and impassioned, driving vocal melodies that get stuck in your head for weeks on end. 

    Behind the out-of-world sound is Dave Hoon (vocals/guitars), Tim Choate (guitars), Brian DiMeglio (bass) and Matteo Dix (drums). Having played in bands for their whole lives while pursuing full-time careers, they decided to form the infectious Superbloom in 2018. 

    With no room for bluffs or half-hearted attempts, Superbloom introduced themselves with 2020’s “Level Head,” followed the next year by their 12-track debut album Pollen. This release represents Superbloom’s early era of self-discovery. 

    Brooklyn’s alternative rock band Superbloom returns to the stage with their debuting new single “Head First.”

    Superbloom’s newest upcoming EP Life’s a Blur is music you can feel in your gut. A conscious progression from Pollen, its songs have a harder edge and an undeniable, ever-present weight. 

    Brooklyn’s alternative rock band Superbloom returns to the stage with their debuting new single “Head First.”

    They reach greater depths of sound through dynamic, varied songs and interludes that range from ethereal to manic, all while retaining those signature hooks, dreamy tones, and infectious bouncy rhythms that made their debut so irresistible. These new songs showcase an expansion into new sonic dimensions and dynamics as is evident on the new single “Head First.” 

    As a hard-hitting band with an unapologetic sound, Superbloom is a success story to never give up on your dreams, and they have a lot more in store as they step into a bold new era. “I’d be lying if I said we planned to throw away the playbook for the EP, but I’m glad we did, because everything cool and unfamiliar mushroomed from there — on and off stage,” Dave Hoon says. “Pollen is in the rearview and I’m hungry for what’s next.” 

    Tickets for the album release show are available here. 

    Listen to “Head First” by clicking the link here. 

    For more music by Superbloom, click the link here. 

  • Cracker Summer Tour hits City Winery New York

    Cracker has been described as a lot of things over the years: alt-rock, Americana, insurgent-country, and have even had the terms punk and classic-rock thrown at them. But more than anything Cracker are survivors. Now on the road now for their 2023 Summer Tour, Cracker stopped at City Winery New York, on Saturday, June 3, featured two shows, the first of which was also livestreamed.

    The tour features many hits, fan favorites, and deep cuts from Cracker’s 31-year recording career, including material from their last acclaimed double album, Berkeley To Bakersfield  – their ode to both northern California’s edgier-rock scene and the country-western music that emanated from further down state.

    Cracker City Winery New York 06/03/23

    Co-founders David Lowery and Johnny Hickman have been at it for over three decades – amassing nine studio albums, multiple gold records, thousands of live performances, hit songs that are still in current radio rotation around the globe – “Low,” “Teen Angst (What The World Needs Now),” “Euro-Trash Girl” and “Get Off This,” to name just a few – and a worldwide fan base that despite the major sea-changes within the music industry continues to grow each year.

    Setlist (early show): Disneyland Jail, 1977, Been Around the World, Seven Days, The Good Life, Teen Angst (What the World Needs Now), 100 Flower Power Maximum, Someday, Hey Bret (You Know What Time It Is), El Cerrito, Get Off This, Dr. Bernice, Loser, Low, Another Song About the Rain, Euro-Trash Girl

    Setlist (late show): Poor Life Choices, Get on Down the Road, Teen Angst (What the World Needs Now), Show Me How This Thing Works, The World Is Mine, Time Machine, Sweet Thistle Pie, California Country Boy, Get Off This, Pictures of Matchstick Men, Ambiguity Song, Take the Skinheads Bowling, Take Me Down to the Infirmary, Low, Wedding Day, One Fine Day

    Watch exclusive video of “Low” from the livestream below.

    CRACKER SUMMER TOUR

    Sunday, June 4 – The World Cafe Live, Philadelphia, PA

    Friday, June 9 – Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro, NC

    Saturday, June 10 – Harborfest Norfolk VA

    Thursday, June 15 – Space, Evanston IL [Sold Out] 

    Friday, June 16 – Space, Evanston IL [Sold Out] 

    Saturday, June 17 – The Acorn Festival, Three Oaks, MI 

    Sunday, June 18 David Lowery Solo Acoustic – Bur Oak, Madison WI *

    Wednesday, June 21 David Lowery Solo Acoustic – Heavy Metal Shop, Salt Lake City, UT *

    Friday, June 23 – Live Oak Music Festival San Luis Obispo CA

    Saturday, June 24 – Hopmonk Cookout Concert Series, Novato, CA

    Sunday, June 25 – Hopmonk Cookout Concert Series, Novato, CA

    Thursday, June 29 – David Lowery Solo Acoustic – Lodge Room, Los Angeles, CA *

    Friday, June 30 – The Belly Up Tavern, Solana Beach CA

    Saturday, July 1 – Pappy and Harriets, Pioneertown, CA

    Monday, July 3 Toad the Wet Sprocket and Cracker – Arvada Center, Arvada, CO

    Tuesday, July 4 – The Orpheum, Flagstaff, AZ

    Thursday, July 6 – TBA, New Mexico

    Wednesday, July 12 Spin Doctors and Cracker – Empire State Plaza at Capitol, Albany NY

    Thursday, July 13 – Narrows Center for the Arts, Fall River MA 

    Friday, July 14 – Double E Performance Center, Essex Junction, VT 

    Saturday, July 15 – City Winery – Boston, MA

    Friday, July 21 – Riverfront Live Cincinnati, OH

    Saturday, July 22 – The Shed Concert Series 2023 at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, Maryville, TN

    Friday, July 28 – Windjammer, Isle of Palms. SC

    Sunday, August 13 – 3rd & Lindsley, Nashville, TN

    Saturday, August 19 – Brown’s Island, Richmond VA

  • Album Review: “Bridges” by Ilya Dynov

    New York-based jazz drummer Ilya Dynov released his debut album Bridges on April 16th, 2023. The album features Alex Norris on trumpet, Jihee Heo on piano, Lonnie Plaxico on bass, and Ilya Dynov on drums. Ilya Dynov reveals himself as an outstanding contender on the jazz scene. The album blends different jazz styles, balancing tradition and virtuosity with creative freedom. Thus, it showcases a mature harmony and expressive creativity.

    Bridges consists of Dynov’s all original compositions and features an array of world class talent out of New York. Alongside Dynov on drums are the legendary bassist Lonnie Plaxico, extraordinary trumpeter Alex Norris, and exceptional pianist Jihee Heo. Bridges comprises 9 tracks: four in a piano trio setting, three as a quartet with trumpet, and two flavorful drum solos as “Intro” and “Finale” statements.

    In terms of composition and exposition, the album exceeds typical expectations of a drummer-led band. It combines harmonically challenging pieces with convincing melodies brought to life with integrity, and a respect for American jazz tradition. Dynov’s excellent drumming technique is paired with a deep connection with the harmonic and melodic contributuons of his band mates. Through this, the result i s a exploration of a contemporary palate that, at the same time, respects the music of the forefathers.

    The record consists of a wide range of compelling pieces. The “Intro” statement is immediately captivating to listeners and serves as a reflection of Dynov’s expertise. A suspenseful drum solo drifts in and out of intense crescendos and decrescendos, keeping the listener on the edge of their seat in anticipation. The short, somehow mysterious intro track, holds promise of a unique record to follow. The raw sound of the drum and interesting composition encourages the audience to listen to the next track.

    The first ‘official’ song of the album, “Constellation,” opens with a compelling, raw base, which then leads to an exciting, smooth jazz melody. A riveting trumpet leads the bass, drums, and piano ensemble. “Constellation” largely embodies what jazz is truly about – listening to the song was akin to listening to an exciting conversation that one can’t help but be entirely invested in. Each instrument has its own voice and unique role within the song, and yet they all work together to create one coherent melody. The song ebbs and flows, taking the listener through fast and slow sections. Through rhythm, tone, and style changes, “Constellation” was extremely engaging, and embodied the instrumental conversation that is jazz.

    “Drum and Berries,” the second track on the record, presented a smoother, slower melody than the previous tracks. Rather than an intense argument between instruments, “Drum and Berries” exemplified a flowing, cohesive conversation. The track opens with a gentle piano, accompanied by bass and drum. Throughout the slow jazz tune, the piano expertly navigated through the constraints posed by an ensemble, playing off the base while also embodying a classic jazz sound. Halfway through the song, the bass takes over, playing the tune set up by the piano in the first half. An exciting, raw drum solo follows, serving as a reminder of the intro track.

    Something worth noting about the album is that each song is entirely unique, with its own personality. Following the first three tracks, “For Those We Love” plays off a more classic jazz sound than the other songs. A trumpet solo immediately engages listeners within the first few beats of the song, soon leading into a classical jazz melody. The tone of the trumpet, accompanied by a well-blended pairing of piano and drums, creates a somber, almost romantic energy. Unlike previous tracks, the trumpet takes the spotlight overpowering notes and rhythms. Rather, the simple notes and melody are compelling in their sim[licity and rawness.

    “For Those We Love” seems to tell a story through the trumpet – the mood shifted throughout the song, sometimes embodying a somber narrative, other times presenting itself as bright and optimistic. Like previous tracks, instruments within the ensemble each took over the musical conversation in a contemporary jazz fashion.

    A theme that was present throughout the album was the compelling and dramatic drum solo. The fifth track, “Blue” continued the suspenseful drum solos from the intro and “Drum and Berries.” A wonderfully unsettling, compelling, and raw drum solo emerged following a highly suspenseful, gradual crescendo. Through dramatic crescendos and decrescendos, the drums presented a contemporary mix of all sorts of sounds working together. The song itself seemed to ebb and flow, emerge and remerge, and changed throughout the track. The drums grew increasingly more spunky, ultimately resulting in an edgy tune with an upbeat melody, led by piano. “Blue” transitioned into a fast, compelling, and bright piano melody, the second half of the song completely different than the introduction.

    Another highlight within the album is “68th Street,” a song largely reminiscent of classical jazz. The song emulates a beautiful ballad through its well-rounded, blooming melody. The piano seemed to convey a story about love. The bass and piano both act as soloists throughout the song, and effectively convey a calm, gorgeous melody that one can’t help but fall in love with.

    Overall, “Bridges” is a highly versatile album that embodies all that is wonderful about jazz. Each song is compelling in its own right, and the album in its entirety serves as a valuable addition to the world of jazz.

  • In Focus: Half Moon Run ‘SALT’ Release Preview Show at Live Nation Headquarters

    Montreal’s Half Moon Run release their new album, Salt, on June 2nd, and have chosen “9beat” as the single to bolster the release, a track which features the explosive rhythmic interplay and surging dynamic range that the band has become renowned for. On Thursday, June 1st, 24 hours prior to its release the band visited Live Nation’s Headquarters in New York City and played an invite-only 60min set to celebrate the release of Salt, complete with a full string section to accommodate half the set and premiering new songs throughout.

    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC

    The trio, Devon Portielje, Conner Molander, and Dylan Phillips have also previewed Salt with three previously released singles, “Alco,” “You Can Let Go” and “Everyone’s Moving Out East.” 

    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC
    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC
    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC
    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC
    Half Moon Run LiveNation Rooftop NYC

    Tour Dates for North America in support of the album were announced today as well, below:

    HALF MOON RUN – NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES 2023
    October 24, 2023 @ El Rey Theater, Los Angeles, CA
    October 25, 2023 @ August Hall, San Francisco, CA
    October 27, 2023 @ Wonder Ballroom, Portland, OR
    October 28, 2023 @ The Crocodile, Seattle, OR
    October 29, 2023 @ Spanish Ballroom Tacoma, WA
    November 1, 2023 @ Royal Theatre, Victoria, BC
    November 2, 2023 @ Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC
    November 3, 2023 @ Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, BC
    November 5, 2023 @ MacEwan Hall, Calgary, AB
    November 7, 2023 @ Coors Event Centre, Saskatoon, SK
    November 8, 2023 @ Burton Cummings Theatre, Winnipeg, MB
    November 10, 2023 @ Varsity Theater, Minneapolis, MN
    November 11, 2023 @ Metro, Chicago, IL
    November 12, 2023 @ Saint Andrew’s Hall, Detroit, MI
    November 14, 2023 @ The Foundry, Philadelphia, PA
    November 16, 2023 @ Union Stage, Washington, VA
    November 17, 2023  @ Music Hall of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY
    November 18, 2023 @ Royale, Boston, MA
    November 21, 2023 @ London Music Hall, London, ON
    November 23, 2023 @ History, Toronto, ON
    November 24, 2023 @ Kingston Grand Theatre, Kingston, ON
    November 25, 2023 @ Algonquin Commons Theatre, Ottawa, ON
    November 26, 2023 @ Algonquin Commons Theatre, Ottawa, ON
    December 13, 2023 @ MTelus, Montreal, QC
    December 14, 2023 @ MTelus, Montreal, QC
    December 15, 2023 @ Salle Maurice-O’Bready, Sherbrooke, QC
    December 17, 2023 @ Théâtre du Palais Municipal, Saguenay, QC
    December 18, 2023 @ Grand Théâtre@ Quebec City, QC