NYS Music 2023

Category: Alternative/Indie

  • 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

  • The Crowd Joins In At Shilelagh Law’s Veteran’s Day Concert

    The line between stage and crowd was blurred at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, New York on Friday, November 10, as New York’s thirstiest Irish band, Shilelagh Law, engaged with the crowd. For two hours, Mulcahy’s was filled with Irish music that ranged from the band’s original songs and classic Irish ballads to covers of Temple of the Dog and Indigo Girls. 

    Shilelagh Law’s lead vocalist Richard Popovic (right) performs with fiddler Dennis McCarthy (left) at Mulcahy’s

    Hailing from Yonkers and the Bronx, the band consists of Richard Popovic on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Terence Brennan on bodhran, Stephen Gardner on bass, Dennis McCarthy on fiddle, and Kevin McCarthy on piano accordion. 

    With two members part of the FDNY and another a retired member of the NYPD, along with many of their fans in the service, this Veteran’s Day Weekend show was of great importance to the band. Lead vocalist Popovic stated, “It’s always humbling to play on Veteran’s Day. It’s a small thing we can do for people who do so much for us.”

    At approximately 9:30 pm, Mulcahy’s green lights shone upon Shilelagh Law as they took to the stage. The band opened with a cover of The Pogues’ “A Rainy Night in Soho,” a soft introduction that might have misled any newcomers. They might have presumed this concert would be like that of a mellow session. But Shilelagh Law had no such plans. After all, they’re ‘New York’s Thirstiest Irish Band.’

    Living up to their reputation, Shilelagh Law riled up the crowd with a speedy rendition of “Whiskey in the Jar” that rivaled the fast-paced nature of “Lanigan’s Ball,” where it’s a challenge to sing at such a rate, let alone pronounce the lyrics correctly. Riding off that energy, Shilelagh Law did what they do best – engage with the crowd. 

    Shilelagh Law took the first request of the night, “Glorious.” With lyrics, “Glorious. Glorious. One keg of beer between all of us. Glory be to God that there ain’t no more of us, cause one of us could drink it all alone,” it surely became a party. 

    It was a party that resembled a family reunion. While the chorus for “Glorious” focuses on the party aspect of the concert, the verses speak to Shilelagh Law’s fanbase, the Shilelagh Army, who’s united through their love for Irish music. “The Shilelagh Army is the best family.” This sentiment is what allows Shilelagh Law to work with the crowd in such an organic manner that dissolves the barrier between the artists and audience. Popovic stated, “To recognize the fans and make them feel they are a part of the show as much as possible is important to us.”

    The band continued to include the audience in their show, taking more requests as the night lingered on. Following “Glorious” was a request for “Linger” by The Cranberries. Shilelagh Law performed the classic with a slight twist. Rather than play the opening with an electric guitar, band member Dennis McCarthy performed it on the tin whistle, leaning into the song’s longing plea for love. 

    Popovic spoke to the band’s take on classics, such as “Linger” and “Hungry Strike” by Temple of the Dog, which was sung towards the end of the show. “Usually one of us will come in with the bare basics. Everyone halfway learns their parts. We mess around with it for a few sound checks, and then just go for it. It’s not always smooth sailing, but it does leave lots of room for surprises and improvisation.”

    Even more room is left for improvisation due to the fact Shilelagh Law doesn’t have a setlist. Without a the strict confinement, Shilelagh Law is able to lean into the energy of the audience (and with the energy of more than a few Rangers’ fans present, a couple “Go Rangers” chants were shouted by the band here and there). 

    Shilelagh Law closes out their Veteran’s Day Weekend show with an electric performance of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

    Even though the setlist is always changing, there’s one song that always makes the list, “Christmas in New York.” As the opening notes of it played, the lights dimmed. In place of the bright lights were tiny stars that glistened across the venue along with an American flag displayed behind the band. The song pays respect to New York’s finest and any friends who passed during the year. The audience joined in paying their respects, pouring out their hearts while singing along. 

    “Christmas in New York” was followed by a couple classics, such as “Rattlin’ Bog” and “Grace,” before Shilelagh Law concluded their performance around 11:30 pm. But that didn’t stop the audience from demanding more. The band came back for not one but two encores, both of which continued to pay respect to veterans. Their first encore consisted of a cover of Flogging Molly’s “If I Ever Leave This World Alive,” which was dedicated to all veterans.

    The band then concluded their Veteran’s Day show with their rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.” Fiddle player Dennis McCarthy played with such vigor and in a style similar to that of Eileen Ivers that transformed the fiddle into an electric guitar. The result was a Jimi Hendrix-styled rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” to close out the night. 

    Luckily it won’t be long to catch Shilelagh Law back again in Long Island. They’ll be at the The Inn of Long Beach on Nov. 25 at 9pm. Know that if one attends their concert, they’re bound to catch Shilelagh Law fever and leave part of the Shilelagh Army family. For more information about Shilelagh Law’s upcoming shows, click here.

    Setlist: Rainy Night in Soho, Whiskey in the Jar, Glorious, Olé Olé & Notre Dame Victory March Mashup, Linger, Shipping Up to Boston & Drunken Sailor Mashup, 1 and 9, Funky Ceili, Hunger Strike, The Liver Song, Ring of Fire, The Fighting 69th, Meet Me on McLean, Ham and Cheese with Mayo, When New York Was Irish, Christmas in New York, Closer I Am To Fine, Fields of Athenry, Rattlin’ Bog, and Grace.
    Encore 1: If I Ever Leave This World Alive
    Encore 2: The Star Spangled Banner

  • Dumbo Gets Mad Gets Rochester Dancing

    Getting people out to a show on a Monday night is a hard sell. Getting people out for a show on the first Monday after our clocks turn back and darkness falls before lunch has even been digested is even tougher. Getting people out to a show on a dark Monday night when Tool is also in town is near impossible. So the impossible was achieved on Monday, November 6, when the Bug Jar had Italian quartet Dumbo Gets Mad on the bill and drew a solid crowd to come check them out.

    That crowd was treated to an extremely fun and danceable set. And dance they did! The quartet, guitar, keys, bass and drums, put their own psychedelic spin on a wide swath of genres. Synth-pop, surf, reggae, late night grooves, and heavy rock all reared their heads through the evening in a set that spanned their 10-year catalog.

    “Congratulations” gave the Bug Jar’s mirror ball a bit of nostalgia with it’s disco beat, slinky bass and infectious groove. Slow and sexy “Indian Food” gave the dance floor a bit of a breather. “Self Esteem” ratcheted the energy way up through the upside-down roof, bombastic bass blasts met raucous guitar in an absolute rager. The band had an endless bag of catchy synth lines, and “Plumy Tale” ended the set with yet another one.

    Dumbo Gets Mad was having as good a time as the crowd, and exhibited their own set of dance moves from the stage. Urged back for “one more song,” the band launched into a guitar and drums workout that had lead Dumbo Luca Bergomi grooving with his guitar through the crowd, the dance party on and off the stage ultimately coalescing in the end.

  • Alanis Morissette Announces The Triple Moon Tour, Stops in Wantagh and Bethel

    Seven-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter Alanis Morissette has announced 31 North America shows for The Triple Moon Tour, with stops in Wantagh and Bethel. This new tour will feature special guest Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icon Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, along with support from Morgan Wade.

    Since 1995, Alanis Morissette has been one of the most influential singer-songwriter-musicians in contemporary music. Her deeply expressive music and performances have earned vast critical praise and seven Grammy awards. Morissette’s 1995 debut, “Jagged Little Pill,” was followed by nine more eclectic and acclaimed albums. She has contributed musically to theatrical releases and has acted on the big and small screen.

    Outside of entertainment, she is an avid supporter of female empowerment, as well as spiritual, psychological, and physical wellness. In 2001, Alanis was awarded the Global Tolerance Award by the Friends of the United Nations for her contributions to promoting tolerance through the arts. In 2016, Alanis launched Conversation with Alanis Morissette, a monthly podcast that features conversations with a variety of revered authors, doctors, educators, and therapists, covering a wide range of psychosocial topics extending from spirituality to developmentalism to art.

    On December 5, 2019, “Jagged Little Pill” the musical made its Broadway debut at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City. The show was nominated for fifteen Tony Awards and won 2 Tony Awards at the 2021 ceremony. In July of 2020, Alanis released her ninth studio album, Such Pretty Forks In The Road, to rave reviews. In August of 2021, Alanis kicked off her sold out world tour celebrating 25 years of Jagged Little Pill. The tour became the #1 female-fronted tour from 2021 and also one of the Top Worldwide Tours of 2021 selling over 500,000 tickets. Alanis also stars in Fox’s sitcom, “The Great North,” which is set to return for season 4 in 2024.

    To celebrate the upcoming holiday season, Morissette released a new Christmas single on November 3. The track “Last Christmas” is a part of an EP featuring previously released Alanis holiday covers of John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War is Over)”, William Chatterton Dix’s “What child is this?”, and Katherine Kennicott Davis’ “Little Drummer Boy”. All four covers are available on a limited edition red and green 10’ vinyl as well as all streaming platforms.

    Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ website

    Joan Jett grew up during a time when rock ‘n’ roll was off limits to girls and women, but as a teenager, she promptly blew the door to the boys’ club right off its hinges. After forming her band the Blackhearts in 1979, with whom Jett has become a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, she has had eight platinum and gold albums and nine Top 40 singles, including the classics “Bad Reputation,” “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll,” “I Hate Myself For Loving You,” and “Crimson and Clover.”

    With a career that has spanned music, film, television, Broadway, and humanitarianism, Joan Jett remains a potent force and inspiration to generations of fans worldwide. As a producer, she has overseen seminal albums by Bikini Kill, and the Germs’ LA punk masterpiece ‘GI.’

    Jett and Kenny Laguna (her longtime producer and music partner) co-founded Blackheart Records from the trunk of Kenny’s Cadillac after rejections from no less than 23 labels. 40 years later, Blackheart is a thriving entertainment company producing music, film and television, and continues to champion emerging bands. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts continue to tour the world with headlining shows alongside fellow rock legends like The Who, Green Day, Heart, and Foo Fighters. ‘Bad Reputation,’ a documentary about Jett’s life, premiered to critical acclaim at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. Following up on the bands 2022 release Changeup, their first-ever acoustic album, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts EP Mindsets will be a RSD First vinyl release on 11/24. Mindsets is available to stream now.  

    “I am inspired and heartened and feel giddy inside to be going on this upcoming summer tour with Joan and Morgan and all our teams,” Morissette said. “Can’t wait to see you, can’t wait to perform!” 

    Morgan Wade’s website

    One of Nashville’s fastest-rising and most critically acclaimed young stars, Morgan Wade released her much-anticipated sophomore album, Psychopath, Aug. 25 via Sony Music Nashville. Possessed with a raw and unflinching voice anchored by a perfect tinge of twang; the rare ability to pen honest portraits of some of life’s most precious, painful, and unpredictable moments; and an onstage vulnerability that so seamlessly breaks down the wall between fan and artist, Wade has quickly made her mark on the country music scene — and the music world at large. Her stunning 2021 debut album, Reckless, was hailed as a critical triumph; it topped Rolling Stone’s Best Country and Americana Albums of 2021. In 2022, Wade was nominated as the Emerging Act of the Year at the Americana Music Honors & Awards. Followed by 2023, when Wade was nominated for New Female Artist of the Year by the Academy of Country Music and performed at major-market festivals including Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits.

    While Reckless, and particularly its momentous lead single “Wilder Days,” busted down the doors and introduced Wade to a wider listenership, Psychopath is an astounding follow-up statement: the 13-track LP was crafted with the help of some of Nashville’s most extraordinary musical talents, from A-list songwriters (Julia Michaels, Natalie Hemby, Liz Rose, Lori McKenna) to studio musicians as well as Wade’s longtime producer Sadler Vaden. Most excitingly, Psychopath finds Wade peeling back layers of her psyche like never before. “I realized the more authentic you are and the more you pour yourself into your songs, and most importantly if you’re being honest, people will connect to that,” Wade says. 

    THE TRIPLE MOON TOUR DATES: 

    Featuring special guest Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and support from Morgan Wade

    Sun Jun 09 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 

    Wed Jun 12 – Austin, TX – Moody Center 

    Fri Jun 14 – Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion 

    Sun Jun 16 – Houston, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Presented by Huntsman 

    Wed Jun 19 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre* 

    Thu Jun 20 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre* 

    Sat Jun 22 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheater 

    Sun Jun 23 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena 

    Wed Jun 26 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion 

    Thu Jun 27 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek 

    Sat Jun 29 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion 

    Tue Jul 02 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion 

    Wed Jul 03 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center 

    Fri Jul 05 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts 

    Sat Jul 06 – Hartford, CT – Xfinity Theatre 

    Tue Jul 09 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center 

    Wed Jul 10 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater 

    Tue Jul 13 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage

    Tue Jul 16 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre 

    Wed Jul 17 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center 

    Tue Jul 23 – Maryland Heights, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre 

    Wed Jul 24 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center 

    Sat Jul 27 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center

    Sun Jul 28 – Milwaukee, WI – American Family Insurance Amphitheater  

    Wed Jul 31 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena 

    Thu Aug 01 – Salt Lake City, UT – USANA Amphitheatre 

    Sat Aug 03 – Auburn, WA – White River Amphitheatre 

    Sun Aug 04 – Portland, OR – Moda Center 

    Wed Aug 07 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre 

    Thu Aug 08 – Palm Springs, CA – Acrisure Arena

    Fri Aug 10 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

    *With support from Joan Jett and the Blackhearts only

    Tickets will be available starting with a Citi presale (details below) beginning on Tuesday, November 14. Additionally, fans can sign up for Morissette’s mailing list by Wednesday, November 15 to get first access to presale tickets. More presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning on Friday, November 17 at 10 am at alanis.com.

    Citi is the official card of the Triple Moon Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning on Tuesday, November 14 at 10 am until Thursday, November 16 at 10 pm through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit this website. 

    The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. For more information, visit alanis.com.

    Follow Alanis Morissette on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube.

    For more information on Joan Jett and the Blackhearts click here, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube.

    For more information on Morgan Wade click here, or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube.

  • Spiritualized Mesmerized Buffalo

    Souls filled the pews and chairs inside Asbury Hall, a cavernous old church in Buffalo, on Tuesday. Dim light from an overcast nighttime sky peaked through stories-tall stained glass windows. A group, called Spiritualized, was in town to bless the enlightened with sounds from the beyond. A three-woman choir, decked out in flowing white blouses, joined in with joyous singing. The attendees clapped, cheered, sang along and raised their arms in praise. But this was no religious gathering. Rather it was a rock concert, and a devilishly good one at that.

    Spiritualized, a 30-plus year-old band out of England, was on the second night of a short week-long stint in the US. There was no opener, no stage banter, almost no dead air at all, just over two hours of glorious music. Bandleader Jason Pierce situated himself on the right side of the stage, seated sideways facing his bandmates. And they were fully engaged from the start.

    A spacey noise drifted gently into weightlessness, building repetitively to a crescendo and fizzling back down again in a near ten-minute “Hey Jane” that set the scene for the rest of the evening. Against a starfield backdrop, and with a mirrorball continually sending dots of light orbiting across the stone walls, we were set to explore, not the heavens, but the cosmos. And what more appropriate guide then Pierce, who is also known as J. Spaceman.

    “She Kissed Me (It Felt Like a Hit)” blasted into high gear with frantic drumming, manic bass and wailing guitars. That slammed head first into the gorgeous slide guitar and organ swells of “Shine a Light,” which built up to an exultant chorus from the backup singers. Praise be! “I’m Coming Home Again” immediately followed, peeling back layers of rock exposing a quiet and gorgeous interplay of guitar, piano and bass.

    With little to no pause between songs, the journey continued on through the night. The band would push, pull and stretch the tempo, between songs and within, creating time vortexes. Strobing lights hitting the mirrorball appeared to slow down time altogether as a hyper synth drone sizzled to silence to close out an intense wall of noise in “The A Song.” “Let It Bleed” was another highlight, as it traveled a slow build to ultimate exaltation, choir and all.

    The journey, which made stops along their full catalog, closed out as it began, “Sail On Through” slowly drifting off into space. Spiritualized slowly disengaged from their stations, faced the audience for the first time, and clapped and cheered for us as we for them. Maybe it was a religious experience after all.

    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 E: So Long You Pretty Thing, Come Together

  • Hearing Aide: Ian McCuen “What It Means To Be Young, Sad, and Alone”

    Ian McCuen’s sixth album and the longest by far, What It Means To Be Young, Sad, and Alone is a melancholy, transcendent record. It opens with the repeated line, “Funny how it feels like an art, the way things always fall apart. But eventually, so it goes, we all die alone.” With this air of self-aware critique, McCuen crafts a soothing, yet gut-wrenching depiction of truly what it means to be young, sad, and alone.

    What It Means To Be Young, Sad, and Alone

    Based in Buffalo, Ian McCuen’s first album came in 2017, with three volumes of Songs of Fleeting Permanence over the next few years. They operate relatively solo, writing, composing, and arranging all their own tracks across a wide range of instruments. What It Means To Be Young, Sad, and Alone includes over nine unique instruments, including a harmonica, saxophone, mandolin, banjo, and the ever-present electric guitar.

    Ian McCuen

    The full record, boasting an impressive 20 tracks and amassing 80 minutes, follows a distinct style both musically and lyrically. McCuen creates an ethereal soundscape, with delicate vocals that are whispering and soothing. 

    The first track on the record, “A Reprise For The Lonely,” acts as an introductory point, both sonically and lyrically, for the rest of the record. However, it creates a strong introduction. The organ-like keyboard commands attention, and the backing vocals and whisper-like spoken word are sad, yet hypnotising. 

    Another song to pay attention to, “Checkerboard Purgatory,” comes as the 11th track on the record. Halfway through the massive tracklist, it easily gets lost among the masses, but it distinguishes itself with a catchy guitar track. 

    The 19th track on the record, “Vicissitude (So It Goes),” is an impressive 8 and a half minutes. Its vocals are subtle, whispering, and generally mellow, but the melody takes a minor shift halfway through. 

    Overall, What It Means To Be Young, Sad, and Alone is truly overwhelmingly sad. However, as a self-described “purveyor of sorrow,” this is exactly what McCuen aims to produce. For those that can indulge in the intense emotional experience of their monumental album, it’s a soothing display of poetry and ambient musicianship.

  • Five Can’t-Miss Shows in Syracuse In November

    With the holiday season rapidly approaching, many take a moment to reflect and give thanks for their family and friends. Many will also give thanks to the music community that graces their town. Here are five shows you won’t want to miss in Syracuse this November to help ring in the holiday season.

    syracuse city skyline
    Photo by Tony Shi

    November 11: Diva Nova at Maplewood Inn

    A star-studded line up of female Central New York musicians share the stage at the Maplewood Inn on Saturday, November 11.  Headlined by area favorite Jess Novak, the night will include performances by Sheela Tucker, CNY Songbirds, Liz Fiddle, Sydney Irving, Heather Kubacki, Diana Jacobs, Lisa Romano and many more.   See the full line up of musical talent here.

    Tickets start at $23 with music starting at 7pm. 

    November 12:  Deer Tick at Homer Center for the Arts

    Indie-rockers Deer Tick make their much anticipated return to Homer’s Center for the Arts on Sunday, November 12.    Known for their high energy live performances, the folk quartet last played the theater in July 2022.  Currently touring in support of their latest release, Emotional Contracts (2023), the band is sure to mix in many favorites from their extensive catalog.  Abby Hamilton opens the show.

    Doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm for this sold out performance.

    November 15:  The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight at the Crouse Hinds Theater

    A unique listening experience will greet concert-goers on Wednesday November 15, as the Rock Orchestra by Candlelight will take stage in Syracuse.  Featuring a 14 piece band of classically trained musicians dressed in skeletal costumes, the musicians will perform an assortment of rock and heavy-metal tracks while lanterns and puppets adorn the stage.  This musical spectacle is surely one you won’t want to miss.

    Doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm.  Limited tickets remain available for $88.

    November 22:  All Poets & Heroes at Funk ’n Waffles.

    It’ll be a homecoming celebration Thanksgiving Eve, as Syracuse indie rock favorite All Poets & Heroes return to the stage in Syracuse.  The band relocated to Nashville in early 2023, leading to limited performances in Syracuse. The band, who have drawn sonic comparisons to Radiohead, were winners of the 2023 Syracuse Area Music Award for Best New Single, for their track “Give It To Me Straight”.   Syracuse’s The Dirty Doves Band open the show.

    Doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm. Tickets start at $13.

    November 28:  Lawrence at The Westcott Theater

    New York City soul-pop band Lawrence bring their sounds to the Westcott Theater on November 28.  Described as “High-energy, keyboard driven sound, featuring tight, energetic horns, and explosive lead vocals,” the band have been turning heads since a performance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in 2022.   Telula opens the performance.

    Doors open at 7pm with music starting at 8pm. Tickets are $30.

  • Listen To The Vigilance Committee’s Insightful LP “Coming Home”

    Indie punk band The Vigilance Committee has released their newest LP Coming Home– the band’s first LP since their historical concept record, Exit a Hero, released way back in April 2015. 

    The Vigilance Committee is what it is because of Peter J. Scoma (guitar/vox), Phil Corso (drums), Christian Cepeda (guitar), and Adam James Tomlinson (bass). Their latest releases since their other album, Exit a Hero, include their single “Reflections III” and the activism-driven EP “Join Us.” 

    Their newest release, Coming Home, features 10 emotionally charged songs that the band crafted during quarantine at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    While all songs are impactful, with specially crafted lyrics and perfected blends of electrifying punk and indie, there are some songs that particularly stand out: “It Was Dawn,” “Beacon,” “Hive Mind,” “Oakfield,” “Unanchored,” and “My Body (Moved But My Mind Stayed There).” 

    Most of the album consists of upbeat punk, but some slow back down, letting The Vigilance Committee’s indie side shine through. One such example is “Hive Mind” which is slower than the other songs, and slightly more relaxed. This song in particular shows The Vigilance Committee’s versatility– but they hit you with a perfectly crafted electric guitar solo in the middle. The lyrics themselves are equally as powerful, and stay true to the title. The song is about questioning our everyday lives– the “hive mind” mentality. This song begs the question: are we making our life choices with intent, or are we just going through the motions?

    Some of the most powerful, emotional lyrics are toward the end, showcasing the rage that many people in society face today due the decisions of those in control, such as government officials. “This is not the world that they sold us // Empty promises // A fire burns. // All we want is to be heard.” 

    Another powerful song is “My Body (Moved But My Mind Stayed There).” This song is more somber and relies on the instrumentals due to the few (but impactful) lyrics and angelic vocals. 

    For more information on The Vigilance Committee, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or visit their website.

  • Norah Jones Announces Concerts & Cultural Experience in Cuba

    Norah Jones has announced a concert program in Havana, Cuba as part of a four-day cultural experience in February. The program, titled Vive En La Habana, celebrates Cuban culture through music, education, and more, with two headline shows at Havana’s historic Teatro Martí.

    Norah Jones: Vive En La Habana Cuba

    An NYC native, Norah Jones launched her solo career in 2002, winning Grammy Awards for Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best New Artist following her debut album, Come Away With Me. Most recently, she re-released the deluxe version of her 2012 album, Little Broken Hearts. Jones began her newest project, a podcast titled Norah Jones Is Playing Along, in 2022, where she explores creative collaborations, conversation, and connection.

    Norah Jones will play Havana’s Teatro Martí on February 17 and 18. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the artist, watch soundcheck, and sit-in on a seminar session with Jones and musicians from Institute Superior De Arte, Cuba’s leading arts university. The program aims to celebrate Cuban cultural and musical heritage, as well as provide an educational experience for attendees visiting the country.

    Teatro Martí

    In addition to Vive En La Habana, Norah Jones will take the stage at NYC’s The Town Hall at Rufus and Martha Wainwright’s Not So Silent Night, a Christmas concert special featuring Norah Jones, Debby Harry, Sean Ono Lennon, and more. Tickets are on sale now, available here.

    Attendees at Vive En La Habana will experience all things Norah Jones: tickets to both shows at Teatro Martí, Q&As, a Cuban music masterclass, accommodation, excursions, and more. The program runs from February 15-19, 2024. Tickets are available now at norahinhavana.com. Attendees can register by November 27 for a 10% discount.

  • The Paper Kites & The Roadhouse Band at Racket: A Halloween Special

    On October 31, The Paper Kites and touring guest The Roadhouse Band performed together at New York City’s Racket. On their North American Tour, The Paper Kites are celebrating their new record At The Roadhouse, an artistic project birthed between the four walls of a dive bar in Australia that fans all across the world are holding close to their hearts today.

    With the epitome of an autumnal sound combined with the holiday atmosphere, The Paper Kites pulled in the proper crowd: costume-enthusiast folk fanatics.

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    A crowd with creative costume ideas slowly filled the warehouse venue in the Meatpacking District. Spiderman, Peach and Mario, and plenty of Bob Dylan‘s mingled while awaiting the opening set. At 8:00 PM, The Cactus Blossoms casually strummed into their first song. With only an acoustic and an electric guitar paired with soothing vocals, the duo provided a warm opening performance. They expressed their gratitude to be on their first ever tour, and even more so they praised The Paper Kites for the opportunity and their musical influence. 

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    Shortly after the Cactus Blossoms made their way off the stage, the stage crew decorated the space with an arsenal of instruments. True to The Paper Kites’ rich production value, each instrument that can be intentionally heard on their newest album was prepped and ready to be used on stage. Multiple forms of percussion, a collection of strings, an organ, electric keys, and the iconic vintage-looking microphone sat waiting to be given life.

    Once their signature drapes were hung across the back of the stage, the lights dimmed and each band member made their way onto stage. Eight people on stage seemed like it would be tight, but the congealed bands stitched together comfortably, and so did their sound. 

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    The traditional lead of an acoustic guitar through their melody was threaded with the most intentional additions of twangy strings of banjos and mandolins, the romantic hum of the organ, the tune of the harmonica, and the heartbeat of various drums. If there’s one thing The Paper Kites are, it is consistent – consistently impressive. With a memorable setlist it can become difficult to entertain returning fans, but The Paper Kites routinely delivers a unique listening experience that bends the confines of genre labels through experimentation and passion.

    On stage stood eight music connoisseurs. Lead vocalist; Sam Bentley, on the guitar and the banjo; Dave Powys, on the pedal steel and guitar; Matt Dixon, on drums; Josh Bentley, on the bass; Sam Rasmussen, on the organ and percussion; Hannah Cameron, on strings and cowbell; Chris Panousakis, and the multi-instrumentalist and vocalist; Hadley Kennary. 

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    From their last performance in New York City at Williamsburg Music Hall, their audience has grown – not just in size, but in comfortability. Throughout the show, fans openly conversed with each other and the band members in a respectful manner. Cooing that the song being performed was the song that was playing when they met the love of their life, or politely begging for their favorite oldies to be played. The Paper Kites’s lead vocalist, Sam Bentley, joked and reminisced with the audience all evening. It was truly refreshing, especially for a typically quiet audience.

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    Midway through their performance, The Paper Kites quintuplet and The Roadhouse Band gathered around their signature microphone to sing a stripped version of the Kite’s hit “Bloom” from their oldest record “Woodland.” This is a treasured moment during a Paper Kites performance. Their sound becomes almost tangible in the room, with raw harmonies and only root instrumentals. A wash of peace laid over the audience, for their attention was devoted to the intimate production happening on stage.

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    An applause full of raised hands in praise and hollers from the chest lasted for over a minute. Smiles overtook The Paper Kites’ faces as they made room once more for The Roadhouse Band. Each of the string players made the swap for more bassy instruments as Sam Bentley edged, “Now this is the part of the set where we play some louder songs.” As soon as the first chord of Dave Powys’ electric guitar ripped, the strobe lights were released into motion across the faces in the crowd.

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    One of their new songs, “Black & Thunder,” was a crowd favorite. The soulful riffs and plunge of the bass emitted a similar sound to that of Fleetwood Mac’s “Rhiannon.” On stage the band members tapped their feet to the beat and visibly felt the command of their instruments, as they swayed and jolted their shoulders. 

    Photograph by Shauna Hilferty

    After a few songs, they returned home to their usual earthy gentle tone to close out the show. They sang songs from their record “On The Train Ride Home” that references New York City, which spoke to the audience on personal levels. Tears streamed down the faces of some while smiles stretched across the faces of others. Underneath the lights, a world was formed – a small culmination of vast lives all affected by the same poetry.

    The Paper Kites finished out their Halloween performance with an encore, singing some oldies that were wished for to send off the audience with a memorable evening. Once the lights came on, The Paper Kites and The Roadhouse Band said their thanks and bid their farewells to their New York City crowd.