NYS Music 2023

Category: Show Reviews

  • Whole Lotta Love for Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening in Port Chester

    Just days before Thanksgiving on November 21, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening touched down at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, to fill the 97-year-old theater with the sweet sounds of the mighty Led Zeppelin. Bonham has a string of dates left for the rest of the year with the next show being Wednesday, November 22, in Syracuse and the final show being December 3, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

    Bonham is the son of the original drummer for Led Zeppelin, John Bonham who drummed for the Led Zeppelin until his passing in 1980. In addition to Jason Bonham, the JBLZE consists of “Mr. Jimmy” Sakurai on guitar, Dorian Heartsong on bass, Alex Howland on keyboards and guitar with James Dylan on lead vocals.

    A little past 8pm, the house lights dimmed and the band, under the cover of darkness jumped on stage and blasted into “Immigrant Song” from Led Zeppelin’s 1970 album, Led Zeppelin III. With a thunderous cheer, the fans jumped to their feet with the help of Sakurai’s Les Paul guitar and took in the closet version of the original Led Zeppelin.

    With only a backdrop of the Houses of the Holy album cover and a few stage lights, the band didn’t need anything fancy as the music did all the talking. Sakurai imitated Jimmy Page the best he could while the band was on par and played Zeppelin’s recordings and live songs note for note. Whether it was a song or an extended solo, the band was tight as they jammed away for the two hours they graced the stage.

    Fans who closed their eyes during the show might have originally thought that they were listening to Zeppelin’s The Song Remains the Same or How the West Was Won live albums, or better than that, listening to Led Zeppelin at one of their famous Madison Square Garden shows. From the sound of their instruments to Dylan’s vocals was spot on. The sheer energy from Bonham’s drums that matched Dylan’s shrieking voice put big smiles on the audience’s faces. In addition, some fans were left in awe as Sakurai looks somewhat similar to an older version of Page which adds to the overall experience.

    Bonham during the show went on to explain that this project started 14 years ago as a one-off tour and now has since grown into yearly touring due to the fan’s love for Led Zeppelin’s music. This is true due to all the generations of fans that attended. As the clock began to tick towards show time, the hall was somewhat empty until with a few minutes left, all the fans rushed to their seats to bear witness to the band that belted out some of their favorite tunes.

    During the set, JBLZE delivered tons of fan-favorite songs like “Ramble On,” “The Ocean,” and “Kashmir.” As fans were still finding their seats, they couldn’t contain themselves as they were fist-pumping, singing along, and conducting their best version of Page on their air guitars as they were walking down the aisles.

    Throughout the night, Bonham took time in between songs to talk to the audience and tell stories about his childhood and growing up as the son of the famous “Bonzo.” At one point towards the end of the show, Bonham led the audience in a rendition of the classic John Denver song, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” which had the entire audience on their feet, singing along.

    As fans exited the Capitol Theatre to the rain that waited for them outside, some might have initially thought of Zeppelin’s “Rain Song,” as they shared smiles with the people that they came with knowing that even though it isn’t the original version of the band they once loved, they went home knowing that a close version of the mighty Zeppelin has taken off once again.

    Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening – The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester – Tuesday, November 21

    Setlist: Immigrant Song, Good Times Bad Times, The Wanton Song, Over the Hills and Far Away, Ramble on, What Is and What Should Never Be, When the Levee Breaks, Thank You, Since I’ve Been Loving You, How Many More Times, The Ocean, Misty Mountain Hop, Kashmir, Stairway to Heaven, Whole Lotta Love, Rock and Roll

  • BOOGIE T.RIO Sell Out Buffalo Ironworks

    Funk and electric group BOOGIE T.RIO made a stop at in Buffalo November 17. The band packed in Buffalo Ironworks for a sold out crowd on their Manic Daze and Boogie Nights tour. 

    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Opener Marvel Years showed his fusion early on in the night with his blend of electronic beats and soulful guitar. The producer also known as Cory Wythe looks to create a hybrid of EDM fusing glitch, retro-funk, classic rock, soul, and jazz. 

    Marvel Years, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    The electronic project Manic Focus followed with a live band. This multidimensional artist has a rowdy style that also spans across numerous genres. The band he brought out on stage in Buffalo isn’t always with him so locals were in for a treat that mixed heavy bass with soulful blues. The Denver-based producer used a Numark Orbit on stage which is a wireless midi controller mapped to various one-shot effects. It was entertaining to watch this artist utilize all his various musical partners and tools to build a new-era hip-hop vibe.  

    Manic Focus, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Finally, anticipating fans got the performance they’ve been waiting for as BOOGIE T.RIO took to the stage. This three man group consists of Brock Thornton (guitar/vocals), Andriu Yanovski (keys), and Frank Castro (drums). The band didn’t always use to be the dynamic trio it is now. Brock began in the music scene behind the decks producing heavy beats and funky wubz. He has gained significant popularity in the bass music world and has performed countless festivals under his DJ name Boogie T. 

    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Boogie T to BOOGIE T.RIO

    As Brock has built a huge fandom for his dubstep music, it still has always been a dream of his to tour with live musicians. And with the success that Boogie T has brung calls upon the next phase in his evolution: BOOGIE T.RIO. This group is more than your average jam band and their performance in Buffalo proved just that. 

    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    The boys played numerous hits off of their EP’s including “Get What You Give” and “Disco Moses.” They allow for old jam roots to carry the grooves through their tunes and mix it with new school funk. The guitar shredding solos and organic keytar melodies constantly left everyone impressed. 

    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Longtime Boogie T Fans enjoyed his performances of “Dear Weedman” which brought layered instrumentals to a heavy song. This part of the night Brock invited everyone to smoke up and get jiggy with it. Couldn’t think of a more perfect way to end the night than the trio playing “Flava.” They kept the heavy electronic beats and mashed them with guitar riffs that had the crowd in awe.  

    You might have missed this past weeks sold out show at Ironworks but you don’t have to miss the next one! Workingman’s Dead perform November 24 and Bumpin Uglies will be there December 1. Get your tickets here. 

    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
    BOOGIE T.RIO, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

  • The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Hits High Notes with “Faces of Joy”

    On Saturday, November 18, the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra continued its 2023-2024 Symphonic Series with “Faces of Joy,” an exhilarating program of music spanning two centuries. The evening began with a short piece for strings and celesta, “Five Faces of Joy,” by the living Chinese-American composer Wang Jie.

    The composer calls her work a portrait of “five comic ways of smiling,” including “the smile of a dancing Godzilla,” and Maestro Daniel Hege and the ensemble brought out the wit and whimsy of Wang’s music, providing a fitting introduction to a concert whose theme was joy.

    Pianist Andrew Russo performing at Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra's "Faces of Joy"
    Pianist Andrew Russo performing at Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra’s “Faces of Joy”

    Also on the program was Sergei Prokofiev’s delightful Symphony No. 1, known as the “Classical” Symphony. Writing in 1917, the young Prokofiev sought to imitate the musical style of Mozart and Haydn, and this piece is full of delicacy, dynamic contrasts, and devilish speed. The principal woodwinds of the Philharmonic gave a collective star turn in the dizzying fourth movement.  

    The highlight of the concert, though, was the second half of the program, with guest soloist Andrew Russo playing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, the “Emperor.” Russo, Maestro Hege, and the orchestra seemed to become an organic whole, breathing together as Russo pushed the piano to the utmost extremes of emotional expression. Russo’s virtuosic playing and Hege’s sensitive conducting created a spellbinding atmosphere of joy, which the audience acknowledged by leaping to its feet with loud cheers at the conclusion.

    As always, it was uplifting to see many children and teens in the concert hall. One young boy told this reviewer that he particularly loved Andrew Russo’s performance, saying, “He reminds me of Beethoven!” It was pure joy to hear Beethoven and his colleagues brought to life so skillfully by the Binghamton Philharmonic.

    Don’t miss the next event from the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra, Soprano Robin Johannsen & Pianist Tomoko Kanamaru on December 3. Both internationally acclaimed artists, the duo will perform a program of art songs by women composers from the nineteenth through the twenty-first centuries, including works by Clara Schumann, Florence Price, and Yui Kitamura.

    Tickets are $25. For more information, contact the Binghamton Philharmonic Box Office at 607-723-3931 or visit www.binghamtonphilharmonic.org.

  • The Bacon Brothers Cook at The Egg

    On a Friday evening in Albany, The Egg was cooking with bacon inside. Not your typical menu item, but when Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael came to The Egg, things definitely got cooked up during an all-too-brief concert.

    bacon brothers egg
    photo by Karen Squires

    The duo – one, an actor (Kevin), the other an Associate Professor at CUNY Lehman College (Michael) – share a deep love for American roots music, as well as DNA. For a quarter-century the pair have performed around the country playing what they call “Forosoco,” or a blend of folk, rock, soul, and country influences.

    The show was short – 80 minutes including the encore – but worth it. Fans seemed content settling in for the show, which didn’t feel scripted, but definitely felt like the same show you’d catch anywhere else this tour. Kevin couldn’t resist making a comment about “a couple of Bacons in The Egg,” joining years of Egg jokes on stage that have even led to live album releases.

    Michael and Kevin Bacon

    Kevin took turns playing on a conga drum, tambourine and guitar, while Michael played guitar, cello, and autoharp at different points of the evening.

    Highlights from the set include the moving “Tom Petty T-shirt,” the countrified rock of “Erato,” an angsty “Take off this Tattoo,” a cover of The Lovin Spoonful‘s “Do You Believe in Magic?,” “Ukulele Lady” with all on ukulele, making this stripped down song was the most soulful of the evening, and “She-Zee-Zee (Easy On My Eyes)”

    For the encore, a cheesy “Hands Up” audience interaction song started things off. (Bands, take note: always get the audience involving songs going earlier in the set so they’re engaged early!) And just when you thought it was over, and maybe thought they weren’t gonna play it, the opening notes to “Footloose” began, and the front rows of the audience were up out of their seats grooving along, feet from the actor who made the song famous (apologies to Kenny Loggins). The fans and the band were dancing around, footloose as could be, transported back to 1984, for a moment, if not the evening.

    And while the venue staff was a bit overzealous this evening with limiting any video recording (a first at The Egg), here’s a video from The Bacon Brothers at Daryl’s House a few years back.

  • The Sees Perform At The Bowery Electric for Their Album Release Party

    Brooklyn-based rock band ‘The Sees’ performed at The Bowery Electric on Wednesday, November 15, to celebrate their latest album release entitled Conversations With My Future Self.

    ‘The Sees’ have established themselves to capture the essence of life and humanity within their songs. The band includes frontman Jamie DiTringo, bassist Alex Daly, drummer Tim O’Brien and keyboardist Yoni Wilkenfeld. Their music has become a reminder to make the most of the time we do have and not be afraid to confront the harsh realities of it running out.

    The Bowery Electric was the perfect venue for a night of rock and roll, with a bar in the back and an intimate standing room allowing show goers to get personal with the band and enjoy their hypnotic pulse of synth sounds, strong drum beat accentuated with electric and bass guitar. The show on this Wednesday night, included three bands, Smoke Break, Newborn Kings and finished off strong with The Sees album release performance.

    The album explores a connective sense of global reflection, the nuances of time and the effects it has on us by always slipping away, the concept record tells its story through captivating rhythms and styles that push the boundaries of genre while exploring fresh perspectives. Stitched together by standout guitar riffs and a whirlwind of sonic textures, the group makes a noteworthy entrance onto the scene with this genre blend, encouraging listeners to not only connect deeper with the world, but ourselves. 

    “We hope that everyone who listens to the record can sit back, take it in, and recognize that while we are here on this mortal coil, we must take a moment to find space for positivity and love. Even with the world in chaos, we can always choose love.“ 

    – Jamie DiTringo

    In its entirety, the album crafts a thought-provoking musical experience, taking listeners on a profound ride through various facets of the human experience. The group of four interacted with the crowd and created a truly accomplished sound that left friends, family and fans excited for the future of their music ahead of them.

  • An Eggstraordinary Night: Eggy Sells Out Brooklyn Bowl

    On Saturday, November 19, Eggy delivered an electric performance to a euphoric, sold out crowd at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg. Before the show started, fans lined up braving the cold in anticipation as attendee hopefuls threw the classic sole finger in the air aiming for a miracle. 

    eggy brooklyn bowl

    Hailing from Woodbridge, CT, Eggy have previously played the infamous venue opening for The Kitchen Dwellers in April early this year. They now return as headliners, accompanied by the indispensable Stolen Gin as the opening act. Currently in the middle of their fall east coast leg of the tour, Eggy has risen to prominence in the last few years, playing all around the country in over 40 states since 2019.

    eggy brooklyn bowl

    The night commenced to an ominous atmospheric ambience, a prelude to the energy that would soon surge through the venue. The band consists of Jake Brownstein on guitar and vocals, Dani Battat on keys and vocals, Mike Goodman on Bass and vocals, and Alex Bailey on drums and vocals. If live music is akin to flying and landing an airplane, this quartet of close knit friends from high school proves worthy pilots. The chemistry between the group resonated resoundingly through the capped out venue, as they guided the audience through an extraordinary musical experience.

    Eggy’s sound, a fusion of catchy hooks, melodic interludes and psychedelic jams showcased their ability to carve out a distinct niche in a crowded field of emerging artists. A true highlight of the night was when guitarist Jake Brownstein was concluding a high energy jam, turned his instrument horizontal and pointed it at his bandmate on the keys. As the momentum came to a conclusion, and the final note hit, his guitar turned imaginary gun fired at Dani knocking him to the ground. After a long pause, crawling back up, he grabbed the mic and said, “Missed me” to which the audience roared in laughter.

    eggy brooklyn bowl

    For New York fans who missed this show and want to catch the next one, they are returning to Brooklyn Bowl early next year on April 24th, 2024! Tickets are on sale now.

    Eggy – Brooklyn Bowl, Williamsburg – Saturday, November 17. 2023

    Setlist: 12 Pounds of Pain > Come Up Slow, One Stop Shop, A Moments Notice, Brooklyn (Owes The Charmer Under Me) > All Wheels Turnin’, Sweat Equity, Turn That Heartbeat Over Again, Time Escaping, Smile
    Encore: Wayless

  • Surfin’ U.S.A with The Beach Boys at the Oakdale Theatre

    On a chilly Wednesday evening, fans flocked to the Toyota Oakdale Theatre on November 15 for The Beach Boys. The Beach Boys currently have four shows left in the Northeast on their “America’s Band” tour with the final show being November 19 in Schenectady.

    Despite this version of The Beach Boys looking slightly different than the Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!) lineup, Mike Love and Bruce Johnston still remain. Joining Love and Johnston is Tim Bonhomme on the keyboards, Christian Love, John Wedemeyer, and Brian Eichenberger on guitar, Keith Hubacher on bass, Randy Leago on saxophone with Jon Bolton on the drums.

    Prior to The Beach Boys hitting the stage, the Garfield, New Jersey native band,  The Rascals warmed up the crowd. Led by singer Felix Cavaliere, The Rascals had a short 30-minute set that featured classic songs and prepared the audience for the main event.

    As the clock struck 8:30, the house lights dimmed and the screen behind the stage lit up with a video montage that featured The Beach Boys in pop culture. The montage featured the band’s appearance in Full House, being referenced in Good Morning Vietnam, and having Mathew Perry in his role as Chandler Bing in Friends sing “Kokomo.” The entire theatre rose to their feet as the band jumped into “Do It Again,” off of their 1969 album 20/20.

    The Beach Boys played for a total of an hour and a half and within that hour and a half, the fans loved it. Inside the venue, it would have seemed like you were in a time warp back to the 1960s. Fans were dancing with their significant others in the aisles and women were running up to the stage trying to get a closer look at the band. Even during certain songs, long after lighters were ditched, fans took out their cellphones and flashlights to wave back and forth.

    During the show, The Beach Boys ran through all their hits and even played a few covers. The most impressive cover that the band played was their version of “California Dreamin’” which was originally sung by The Mamas & the Papas and is from their 1966 album If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears. Bolton while drumming was also on lead vocals for this song and did an outstanding job and gave the entire audience goosebumps while Leago provided the groovy solo in the middle of the song.

    The entire band sounded great. Love and Johnston have an excellent band playing alongside them and each musician compliments each other very well. During the renditions of “I Get Around,” “California Girls,” and “God Only Knows” the harmonies sent shivers down the spines of the most hardcore Beach Boys fans and made them transport back to the heyday when the band ruled the world.

    As the band took their final bow after “Fun, Fun, Fun,” fans filed out of the theatre and jumped into their cars blasting the Beach Boys music as if it was the ‘60s again. Fan rolled down their windows as they drove off knowing that for one night, there was nothing but “Good Vibrations” throughout.

    Setlist: Do It Again, Surfin’ Safari, Catch a Wave, Rockaway Beach, Surfin’ U.S.A., Surfer Girl, Don’t Worry Baby, Little Deuce Coupe, 409, Shut Down, Little Honda, I Get Around, Be True to Your School, In My Room, Getcha Back, Good to My Baby, When I Grow Up (to Be a Man), Help Me, Rhonda, Darlin’, God Only Knows, Sloop John B, Wouldn’t It Be Nice, Then I Kissed Her, California Dreamin’, California Girls, Do You Wanna Dance?, Rock and Roll Music, Barbara Ann, Kokomo, Good Vibrations, Fun, Fun, Fun

  • Heaven Sent: Spiritualized Bring Bittersweet Beauty to Basilica Hudson

    Crossing the train tracks that led up to the concert venue, a stranger stopped me and asked, “Is this the way Heaven?” “No,” I said. “Basilica Hudson.” While my Field of Dreams film reference was undoubtedly missed on the man, music fans could have sworn they were in heaven on Wednesday night, November 8th, when legendary UK space rockers Spiritualized made their spectacular debut in Hudson, NY. Delivering a spellbinding tour-de-force performance that will be remembered for years to come, it was the kind of show that cracked you open, rearranged your insides, and sent you home wanting to be a more productive person.   

    Making a rare stateside appearance with only six East Coast dates, fans from all over made it a priority to be there. The unique venue known as Basilica Hudson provided the perfect launching pad for such a formidable occasion.  Located in the industrial section of town, Basilica Hudson is actually an old, refurbished glue factory that was originally built in the 1880’s. Now a multi-purpose, energy efficient arts center along the city’s “South Bay” riverfront, many consider the spot to be a crown jewel of Hudson Valley concert halls. On this night it would also serve as our Space Station for the highly anticipated sold-out show that was presented by Chosen Family.

    The Spaceman Cometh: Jason Pierce AKA J. Spaceman performing with Spiritualized on 11/8/23.

    With the stage set against a starfield backdrop, things lifted off shortly after 8pm. The current Spiritualized juggernaut includes 9 band members spearheaded by our flight commander for the evening, Jason Pierce, better known by some as J. Spaceman. A revered songwriter with an almost cult-like following, it’s been no secret Pierce has been battling a number of health issues in recent years. Clinically pronounced dead twice at one point, indeed every show he plays these days is something of a miracle. Performing seated and wearing his trademark sunglasses, the veteran rocker who turns 58 this month, was showered with adoration and encouragement as the countdown to ignition finally commenced.

    Spiritualized performed to a sold out crowd at Basilica Hudson on 11/8/2023.

    Like most Spiritualized shows in recent years, “Hey Jane” was selected as the opening number. Blasting off with some infectious high-octane psych-rock, the tone was set for the transformative journey ahead. Sounding massive from the very start, “She Kissed Me (It Felt Like a Hit) kept the raw rock energy going as the room had now filled to capacity. Then hitting the rewind button and taking us back to where it all started, next was a song from the bands debut album, “Shine a Light,” from 1992’s Lazer Guided Melodies.  Making this one count, the momentum really started building here, as sprawling layers of sonic distortion and cascading crescendos reached a new level intensity, matching the equally intense, pulsating light show. And just when you thought you couldn’t take it anymore, our captain gently brought us back down, effortlessly guiding the band into the chilled-out hypnotic groove of “I’m Coming Home Again” that conjured up some heavy Velvet Underground vibes. 

    “If you want a rocket ship, I would be a rocket ship for you” – Lyrics from “Always Together With You”

    A beautiful rendition of “A Perfect Miracle” proved to be an early highlight of the set, while “Always Together With You” took on an infectious astral-pop quality that saw Pierce’s lyrics playing up the bands outer space imagery.  Cloaked in white robes, the minimal 3-girl gospel choir sounded beautiful together, adding intricate layers of harmony and filling in the space with “ohhhs” and “ahhhs” that contributed a great deal to the overall sound. Up next came a trio of songs from the album many, including Pierce himself, thought might be the bands last; 2018’s And Nothing Hurt. Flowing beautifully from fan favorite “I’m Your Man” into the hard charging “The Morning After,” and then capping it off with “Here it Comes (The Road) Let’s Go,” which from my perspective, received some of the loudest cheers of the evening.    

    “Labored over these words too long and nothing to behold / Wanted it to be special for you, but it’s just a song” – Jason Pierce

    The next portion of the night featured material from Spiritualized’s most recent release Everything Was Beautiful. Starting the sequence off with “Best Thing You Never Had (The D Song),” things got a little weird when suddenly a man jumped over the barricade and onto the stage. Basking in the spotlight for a moment, it was unclear if this was part of the act.  As the band played on with perplexed looks of plausible concern, it soon became obvious that it was just some inebriated dude looking for attention.  Then attempting to stage dive his way out of the awkward situation, fans in the front made zero attempt to catch him.  The resulting splat that followed was amusing to some, but a complete mental distraction for others. To their credit, Spiritualized never missed a single note. If nothing else, the incident seemed to be an ice breaker, for as serious as this performance was, fans realized it was okay to let their hair down a bit as it was still a rock n’ roll show.

    Idiot bastard, son of a gun
    Heaven is easy, your living is done
    Take it down easy, won’t know what you’ve done
    And we’re gone.

    -Lyrics from The A Song (Laid in Your Arms)

    Resetting the coordinates now, the deliberately hypnotic buildup of “Let It Bleed (For Iggy) produced massive moments of introspection and then euphoria, while the hard charging angst of “The A Song (Laid in Your Arms)” furthered the momentum into another deafening climax where Pierce seemingly confronts his demons while pondering over his lasting legacy. Looking even deeper within, Pierce confessed he’s “Damaged” while lamenting the lines “I wanna just close my mind / Feel like I’m floating on a ship out of time.” Soaring forward with cathartic, blissed-out beauty,  “Soul on Fire” achieved an almost orchestral peak, despite there being no string or horn section.  While the crowd sang along to its repeating chorus, the magnitude of the moment was enough to make the hair on your neck stand up. Acknowledging his struggles with addiction once more, “Sail on Through” would bring the main portion of the show to a jaw-dropping close.

    Spiritualized performing in Hudson, NY on 11/8/23.

    So long you pretty thing, God save your little soul
    The music that you played so hard ain’t on your radio
    And all your dreams and diamond rings and all that rock and roll can bring you
    Sail on, so long.

    -Jason Pierce

    After a few moments of silence off stage, Spiritualized would sail on with a passionate rendition of their psychedelic space pop manifesto “So Long You Pretty Thing.” The final song of the night was also the loudest.  Encoring with the lone track from the bands 1997 undisputed masterpiece Ladies and Gentleman We Are Floating in Space, “Come Together” nearly blew the roof of Basilica Hudson and put an emphatic stamp on a life-affirming performance that simply shook the audience to the core.  Standing up and facing them for the first time all night, Pierce would humbly take a bow and gracefully exit to a chorus of both cheers and tears. Mesmerizing and beautiful, heart wrenching, vulnerable and honest, it was the rare type of performance that satisfied all of your senses and filled you with hope. The type of show that made you feel lucky to be alive and grateful for the struggle. A little piece of Heaven right there there in Hudson, NY.

    Spiritualized | November 8,2023 | Basilica Hudson | Hudson, NY

    Setlist: Hey Jane, She Kissed Me (It Felt Like a Hit), Shine A Light, I’m Coming Home Again, A Perfect Miracle, Always Together With You, I’m Your Man, The Morning After, Here it Comes (The Road) Let’s Go, Best Thing You Never Had (The D Song), Let It Bleed (For Iggy), The A Song (Laid in Your Arms), Damaged, Soul on Fire, Sail on Through

    Encore: So Long You Pretty Thing, Come Together

  • AJR Releases “The Maybe Man” at Irving Plaza

    In an exhilarating double-header on November 12th, the vibrant pop trio AJR surprised their New York City fanbase with an extraordinary day of music. The city that shaped their artistic journey witnessed a surprise daytime performance at Madison Square Park, paving the way for an epic night at Irving Plaza to commemorate the release of their latest album, “The Maybe Man.”

    From the heart of Chelsea to the iconic Irving Plaza stage, the Met brothers, Adam, Jack, and Ryan, guided their audience through a musical odyssey, unveiling both the fresh creations from their new album and the cherished classics. The unexpected nature of these events added an extra layer of thrill, transforming an ordinary Friday into an extraordinary experience for fans who found themselves captivated by AJR’s distinctive soundscapes and infectious energy.

    Hailing from the bustling streets of Chelsea in New York City, AJR is a dynamic pop trio comprised of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met. Their musical journey began in the living room of their city apartment, where they cultivated a distinctive sound that defies easy categorization, blending pop, indie, and electronic elements. Influenced by the diverse energy of NYC, their breakout single “I’m Ready” showcased their knack for catchy hooks and innovative sampling.

    With hits like “Weak” and “Burn the House Down,” AJR has captivated a dedicated fanbase, exploring themes of self-discovery and modern life complexities through their music. Natives of Chelsea, the trio’s artistic DNA is deeply rooted in the city’s diversity and constant buzz, shaping their evolution into one of the most exciting and innovative acts in contemporary music. From the urban landscapes of Chelsea to the global stage, AJR’s journey reflects the enduring spirit of creativity inspired by the heartbeat of New York City.

    “The Maybe Man” stands as the latest sonic adventure from the chart-topping trio, AJR. Released on November 10, 2023, this marks their fifth studio album and a notable transition as it becomes the first under their newly inked deal with Mercury Records. The anticipation for the album began to build during their 2022 world tour, where the sneak peek of the unreleased track “I Won’t” served as the catalyst. Fans eagerly speculated on the album’s title, unraveling the mystery on November 12, 2022, as “TMM” was revealed, prompting imaginative guesses like “The Music Men” and “Ten Meter Men.”

    Building up to the release, the band strategically dropped singles, including the emotionally charged “God Is Really Real,” a poignant tribute to their father, Gary. The animated teaser video released on August 28, 2023, featuring Jack Met’s journey through various landscapes, culminated in the revelation of the album’s title track, “Maybe Man.” The tour announcement on November 8, which includes 2 shows at Madison Square Garden in April 2024, further underscores the grandeur surrounding this remarkable album release, inviting fans to immerse themselves in the magic of AJR’s musical universe.

    The Irving Plaza show itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, pranks, and heartwarming moments that left fans buzzing with excitement. Jack kicked things off with a resolution to be more positive towards Ryan during this album cycle, but true to form, couldn’t resist poking fun at him after the first song, “Maybe Man”. Ryan, on the other hand, shared a humorous anecdote about a dozing-off 10 year old fan during “100 Bad Days,” emphasizing the cyclical enthusiasm whenever eye contact was made.

    The band playfully teased the young fan chasing Ryan’s approval and pretended to entertain on fan song requests like “Thirsty” and an impromptu tattoo-drawing session. Jack continued the brotherly teasing, asserting that a young fan was seeking Ryan’s approval, deeming it underrated. Fan interactions included an acapella rendition of “Thirsty” by their photographer Austin, responding to a fan’s sign, and collaboratively drawing a fan’s next tattoo, with Jack humorously criticizing Adam’s addition.

    “Steve’s Going to London” became a heartwarming sing-along, and the brothers shared a poignant moment, expressing gratitude for their late father, Gary, whose favorite thing surpassed even pastrami sandwiches (#2) and his sons (#3) — the fans. A Gary chant echoed through the crowd, and Jack revealed their dad heard the new album before his passing.

    Drumming up nostalgia, Jack joined in on the drums for “Don’t Throw Out My Legos,” and a production breakdown preceded the track. “Inertia” got its inspiration from a friend’s inertia-laden job at a bank, adding a humorous touch to the performance. The show concluded with a faux farewell, leading into the encore with “Weak” and “2085,” leaving the audience on a high note and cementing AJR’s reputation for unforgettable live performances.

    In tandem with the recent album promotion, AJR is making a stop at Rough Trade Records in NYC for an in-store record signing for “The Maybe Man”.

    Be sure to also catch the band on their first arena tour this spring when they bring their incredible energy to the stage at Madison Square Garden!

    Setlist: Maybe Man, Touchy Feely Fool, Burn the House Down, Sober Up, Yes I’m a Mess, The Dumb Song, 100 Bad Days, DJ is Crying for Help, World’s Smallest Violin, I Won’t, The Good Part, Inertia, Don’t Throw Out My Legos, Steve’s Going to London, Bang
    Encore: 2085, Weak

  • Valerie June, Rachel Davis, Yasmin Williams, and Thao Share Songs in Buffalo

    Buffalo was abuzz, the Bills were home for a big Monday night matchup against the visiting Denver Broncos. But there was another bill that held more sway for those gathered inside Asbury Hall. Valerie June, Rachel Davis, Yasmin Williams, and Thao combined forces examining the current and past state of folk through a female lens. It was Monday Night Folk-for-all.

    Valerie June, Rachel Davis, Yasmin Williams, and Thao Share Songs in Buffalo

    Not oblivious to the world around them, with a nod and a wink, the foursome arrived on stage to the sounds of “The Final Countdown.” It was a last minute audible that would have hit more on the nose had they been able to conjure up their intended walk out music: the Monday Night Football theme song. But it was clear from the get-go they were in a playful mood and having a great time. Coming from a day off in Cleveland, they were rested and raring to go.

    The group first got together for a special panel at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival. They enjoyed it so much that they put together this very special little tour which the folk-over-football Buffalonians were lucky enough to witness. Sitting in a row on the stage, they shared their songs in a Nashville-style round.

    Valerie June started the show off with her unique blend of soul and folk, with a flashy green dress and her signature head of dreads. She’s colorful through and through and lights up the room with just her presence, but her bright smile, wonderful voice and incredible songs certainly don’t hurt. Rachel Davis followed, flexing her own vocal range going a capella with Sally Rogers’ “Circle of the Sun.” Yasmin Williams went in the opposite direction, playing her instrumental “Cliff Walk” with stunning finger picked and tapped guitar. Thao concluded the first round with “Kindness Be Conceived,” a song from her indie-rock band, Thao and the Get Down Stay Down. She strapped on her electric guitar and was joined with some light percussion and hand claps form the others. Each woman brought their own perspective and sound. It was like four concerts in one. And around and around they went.

    As folks songs tend to do, their songs often told stories. But the format of the concert provided the artists to open up with some of the stories behind and around the songs and instruments they played. Davis’ was playing the banjo that her dad used to teach her which he also learned to play on. He ended up gifting it to her when she first left the shores of Lake Michigan for Boston, and the sound of it reminded her of home.

    Valerie June, Rachel Davis, Yasmin Williams, and Thao Share Songs in Buffalo

    Williams’ unique lap-style and finger tapping guitar style was something she developed from mastering Guitar Hero using a similar technique. The game inspired her to learn guitar for real, but she quickly bored of her lessons and taught herself instead. The results are her precise and uniquely-styled playing. Some of the stories only went back as far as the night before, and apparently Williams used her precision for some bowling hijinks on their night off in Cleveland. [details redacted]

    The audience was also regaled with stories of June’s childhood home, so far away from any neighbors that she had a habit of showering naked in the rain. So her “Rain Dance” is not just a song but a part of her childhood. Thao introduced “Temple” with the story behind the lyrics. She took her mother on a trip home to Vietnam and it brought out a side of her she had never seen. The song’s lyrics, written from her mother’s perspective, touched deeper with the backstory in hand.

    The group also joined forces to make music magic. In a unexpected twist, they played three minutes of improvisation, June and Davis humming, Williams on mbira, and Thao on her guitar. It was a bold choice that not only worked out brilliantly, but broke up the song-circle perfectly.

    The show closed with them once again playing together, more traditionally, on a cover of “Shady Grove,” each lady taking a verse. The audience of course wouldn’t let such a special concert end in regulation, so they cheered them on for a little overtime. Another brilliant cover ensued as they tackled “I Shall Be Released” before bringing back in a little more heartfelt humor with a quick victory lap of “Thank You For Being A Friend.” And the best part of all, for this bill, everyone was a winner.