NYS Music 2023

Category: Blues/Jazz

  • The Bones of J.R. Jones Releases Single “Heaven Help Me” Ahead of His Upcoming Album ‘Slow Lightning’

    The Bones of J.R. Jones has recently announced the upcoming release of his first full-length album in more than five years. Slow Lightning, will be dropped on October 13th, and to hold fans over, the announcement comes paired with the release of the album’s debut single “Heaven Help Me.” The New York-based artist, Jonathon Linaberry, won’t stop there, however, as he has also announced a US and European tour to begin in August.

    Linaberry first launched the one-man band in 2012 with his track “Wilderness.” Since then, he has worked to expand his blues, folk, and country sound through his talent as a songwriter, storyteller, visual artist, performer, and musician which can easily be seen through his new music and hoped for with the anticipated album. Slow Lightning will feature a total of 12 tracks produced by Linaberry’s frequent collaborator Kiyoshi Matsuyama and will deal with the sensations of doubt and desire in the face of nature and fate. The title, Slow Lightning, as well as the track themes were inspired by the difficulty of its creation. Linaberry claims he was at the hands and power of the music and his surroundings rather than the other way around.

    “I felt very lost at the time I was writing these songs,” Linaberry confesses. “It was a moment of deep crisis and anxiety, but I knew the only way out was through, which meant I just had to bring myself to the table every day and put in the work.”

    His latest single, “Heaven Help Me,” was created with the intention of constant movement both in rhythm and sound while the lyrics became a mode of expressing the relentlessness and overwhelming quality of the ups and downs of life. Throughout the song, both sound and lyrics work with one another to create an eerie and anxiety building record as Linaberry calls out through a distorted echo, “All my love pouring out of my eyes is drowning me tonight.” He hopes to reach his audience by conveying a shared desire for release which the song delivers at the very end after a constant build of instrumentals and layered voices gives in to wide open space. The Bones of J.R. Jones will take this debut single out on tour in the fall which will include an exclusive album release show in his home state of New York at Mercury Lounge on October 13th.

    “Heaven Help Me” is now available on all music streaming services with tickets for Linaberry’s tour going on sale on Friday, June 23rd. As for the highly anticipated album, Slow Lightning will be released via Tone Tree Music!

    The Bones of J.R. Jones 2023 Tour

    September 2 – Fairmont, WV – Palatine Park 

    September 7 – Buffalo, NY – Ninth Ward 

    September 8 – Pittsburgh, PA – Club Cafe 

    September 9 – Cleveland, OH – Grog Shop 

    September 10 – Ann Arbor, MI – The Ark 

    September 12 – Indianapolis, IN – Hi-Fi 

    September 13 – Chicago, IL – Schubas 

    September 14 – Columbus, OH– Basement 

    September 15 – Syracuse, NY – Funk N’ Waffles 

    September 16 – Windham, NY – Cave Mountain Catskills Festival 

    October 12 – Washington, DC – DC9 

    October 13 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge

    October 14 – Woodstock, NY – Levon Helm Studios

    October 16 – Richmond, VA – Camel 

    October 17 – Charlottesville, VA – The Southern Cafe and Music Hall 

    October 18 – Raleigh, NC – The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop

    October 19 – Charlotte, NC – Evening Muse 

    October 20 – Decatur, GA – Eddie’s Attic

    October 21 – Nashville, TN – The Basement 

    November 8 – Amsterdam, NL – Paradiso 

    November 9 – Luxembourg, LUX – Gudde Wellen 

    November 10 – Paris, FR – No.Pi 

    November 11 – London, UK – Omeara 

    November 14 – Cologne, DE – Jaki 

    November 15 – Hamburg, DE – Uebel & Gefährlich 

    November 16 – Berlin, DE – Kantine Berghain 

    November 17 – Leipzig, DE – Naumanns 

    November 18 – Frankfurt, DE – Brotfabrik

  • Buddy Guy’s Electrifying Farewell Tour Shakes Summerstage in Central Park

    Central Park’s SummerStage played host to an extraordinary evening of blues music as the legendary Buddy Guy took to the stage as part of his “Damn Right Farewell Tour.” The event featured an exceptional lineup of opening acts, including Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Samantha Fish, who set the stage ablaze with their own brilliant performances. But it was Buddy Guy himself who stole the show, leaving the crowd in awe of his virtuosity and stage presence.

    Buddy Guy at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23

    Samantha Fish, the incredibly talented blues-rock artist, opened the show. Adding to the excitement, she brought along her collaborator and fellow Texas guitarist, Jesse Dayton, with whom she had recently released their first collaborative album, “Deathwish Blues.” The electrifying night began with the title track, which instantly captivated the audience. Throughout the set, the duo showcased their musical chemistry, delivering standout performances of Dayton-led songs like “Down in the Mud.” The set reached its climax with the powerful and infectious “Riders,” a song that left the crowd craving for more. Together, Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton left a lasting mark, celebrating the blues and leaving everyone in awe of their extraordinary talents.

    Samantha Fish at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23

    Next up was Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, a young prodigy who has been making waves in the blues world. Despite his age, Ingram’s guitar playing showcased a depth of skill and emotional maturity. His soulful vocals and lightning-fast fretwork on “She Calls Me Kingfish” drew thunderous applause from the crowd, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with. The fiery energy continued with the blues-infused “Midnight Heat,” showcasing Kingfish’s impressive command over his instrument. Closing his set with the powerful “Long Distance Woman,” Kingfish left a lasting impression, proving himself as a true blues artist to watch out for.

    Christone “Kingfish” Ingram at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23

    And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Buddy Guy emerged with his iconic Fender Stratocaster in hand. The crowd erupted with thunderous applause and cheers as he launched into his set, effortlessly transitioning between blistering guitar solos and heartfelt vocals. Backed by his incredibly talented Damn Right Blues Band, they created a mesmerizing atmosphere of blues and rock that resonated throughout the park. The audience was treated to a repertoire of his greatest hits, including “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues,” “Skin Deep,” and Muddy Waters “Hoochie Coochie Man.” Each song was met with resounding applause, highlighting the timeless appeal of his music.

    Buddy Guy at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23

    But the surprises didn’t end there. Blues icon Bobby Rush and his son joined Buddy Guy on stage for a rendition of “Chicken Heads.” The trio brought a new dynamic to the performance, seamlessly blending their styles and creating a magical musical synergy. To conclude the evening, all the artists gathered on stage for an impromptu jam session. The stage was alive with energy as each artist took turns exchanging riffs, trading solos, and sharing the spotlight.

    As Buddy Guy bids farewell to the stage, his music will continue to inspire generations to come. His virtuosity, passion, and undeniable talent have left an indelible mark on the blues genre.

  • 20 Must-See Artists for the 20th Edition of the CGI Rochester International Jazz Fest

    Summer is finally here, and so then, so is the 2023 CGI Rochester International Jazz Fest. Downtown Rochester once again will be transformed from a small city music scene punching above it’s weight to a live music mecca worthy of inclusion in the lyrics of “Dancing in the Streets.”

    rochester jazz fest

    With myriad choices each night for nine straight nights it’s enough to make you dizzy, so let NYS Music help guide your way. It’s the 20th edition of the Rochester International Jazz Fest so here are 20 must-see artists for 2023.

    1. Nellie McKay

    Friday June 23 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm

    A singer/songwriter that brings the full package, a true one-of-a-kind talent. Prepare to be captivated and entertained to the nth degree.

    Others to check out on Friday June 23: Okan, iGNiTE Reggae Band, Eldorado Slim, Tom Guarna Trio

    2. Albino Mbie

    Saturday, June 24 at Montage Music Hall, 6pm & 10pm

    Berklee-trained Mozambican guitarist melds worlds while staying true to his roots.

    3. Samara Joy

    Saturday, June 24 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm

    Fast-rising buzz-worthy vocalist returns to the jazz fest for the second straight year. Kilbourn Hall will give more fest-goers a chance to get in to see her but this will still be a tough packed house to get into. Next year headlining Kodak Hall?

    4. Bill Frisell Trio

    Saturday, June 24 at Theater at Innovation Square, 6:30pm & 8:30pm

    We’ll never not recommend seeing this guitar wizard and his incredible trio with Rudy Royston and Thomas Morgan, or in any format he brings. Coming back for his tenth visit, and for the first time appearing in consecutive years, this still earns a top pick. Don’t hesitate to go for both sets either!

    5. Big Lazy

    Saturday, June 24 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm
    Sunday, June 25 at Wilder Room, 6pm & 10pm

    A big hit at last year’s Rochester Jazz fest, their noir-ish soundtracks will put you in a time and a place while also delighting your ears aplenty.

    6. St. Paul and the Broken Bones

    Saturday, June 24 at City of Rochester East Avenue and Chestnut Street Stage, 9pm

    And yet another festival returnee to fill our your Saturday, there’ll be dancing in the streets when this soulful Alabama eight-piece takes the stage playing selections from their new album, Angels in Science Fiction.

    Others to check out on Saturday June 24: Eldorado Slim, Oddgeir Berg Trio, Joel Frahm Trio

    7. Omara Portuendo

    Sunday, June 25 at Kodak Hall, 4pm

    Legendary Cuban singer and dancer, she has reached a wider international audience from her involvement with the extremely popular Buena Vista Social Club project. Should be a stirring early afternoon set in Kodak Hall.

    8. Nduduzo Makhathini

    Sunday, June 25 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm

    South African pianist comes in hot off the heels of his superb 2022 release, “In the Spirit of the Ntu,” one of the best jazz albums of last year.

    9. Kenny Werner & Gregoire Maret

    Sunday, June 25 at Temple Theater, 7pm & 9:15pm

    A tribute to harmonica legend Toots Thielemans by harmonica legend Gregoire Maret with Thielemans longtime pianist Kenny Werner, sign us up!

    10. Peter Johnstone & Tommy Smith

    Sunday, June 25 at Hatch Recital Hall, 5:45pm & 7:45pm

    Fellow Scots return to the fest for some out-of-this-world saxophone/piano duets in the beautiful, acoustically magnificent and intimate Hatch Hall.

    https://youtu.be/jNjCKdFjVo8

    Others to check out on Sunday June 25: Corner House, Big Lazy

    11. Victoria Victoria with Charlie Hunter

    Monday, June 26 at Montage Music Hall, 6p & 10pm

    Hunter has been to the festival a number of times, always in something completely different and always in something fantastic. Grouped with Victoria Victoria, aka singer/songwriter Tori Elliott, we expect more of the same.

    12. NYChillharmonic

    Monday, June 26 at Theater at Innovation Square, 6:30p & 8:30pm

    Another returning artist that wowed the 2022 jazz fest crowds, this large ensemble group from, you guessed it, NYC, is a tough-to-describe knockout.

    13. Olli Hirvonen Group

    Monday, June 26 at Christ Church, 7:30pm & 9:30pm

    Finnish-born Brooklyn-based guitarist fuses jazz and rock and experimental sounds for a sound that oozes the “it’s not who you know it’s who you don’t know” festival ethos.

    Others to check out on Monday, June 26: Kurt Rosenwinkel Quartet, ESM Jazz Ensemble Celebrating Chick Corea

    14. Glen David Andrews

    Tuesday, June 27 at Montage Music Hall, 6pm & 10pm
    Wednesday, June 28 at Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30p & 10pm

    Someone has to get the New Orleans party started at this festival and let it be this trombonist and vocalist, all the way from… New Orleans, fancy that! Get to these sets if you want to work up a sweat.

    Others to check out on Tuesday, June 27: Miss Tess, Tia Fuller Quintet, Doc Robinson, Christian Sands

    15. Christian Sands Trio

    Wednesday, June 28 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm

    An inventive Grammy-winning pianist and his trio put their own stamp on the traditional jazz trio format. You can also check him out solo the night before. Better yet do both!

    16. Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers

    Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, 9pm

    You can see this legendary pianist and songwriter, who has continued to evolve, remaining fresh and relevant over multiple decades, for free. That’s just the way it is.

    Others to check out on Wednesday June 28: Diego Figueiredo & Ken Peplowski, Tia Fuller Quintet, Twisted Pine, Ralph Alessi Group, Glen David Andrews

    17. Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Loueke

    Thursday, June 29 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm

    Gretchen Parlato’s voice and Lionel Loueke’s guitar go together like peanut butter and chocolate and their new album, “Lean In,” is in the running for jazz album of the year in our opinion.

    18. Joe Beard Band

    Thursday, June 29 at Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, 7pm

    You could see this blues legend nearly any week of the year, but you probably don’t. Here’s a chance to see him on the big stage with a full band. Support your local treasure.

    19. Mark Guiliana Quartet

    Thurday, June 29 at Christ Church, 7:30pm & 9:30pm

    Supreme drummer, who has visited the festival as a member of various other groups, returns with his quartet to present music from their killer new album, “Mischief.” And maybe we’ll be lucky and also see him sit in with his wife, Gretchen Parlato.

    Others to check out Thursday, June 29: Diego Figueiredo & Ken Peplowski

    Others to check out Friday, June 30: Joey Alexander Trio

    20. Jontavious Willis

    Saturday, July 1 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm

    This young blues man from Georgia straight up just has “it,” plain and simple. See for yourself.

    Others to check out Saturday, July 1: Harold Danko, Eddie 9V

    Make sure you add these to your personalized schedule using the new and improved 2023 Rochester International Jazz Fest app and we’ll see you out there on Jazz Street!

  • Elysium Furnace Works’ 2023 Hudson Valley Lineup Receives New Additions

    Elysium Furnace Works (EFW) has announced that the Bass Bridge Quartet will be joining their 2023 seasonal lineup in the Hudson Valley. They are now one of five bands who will play with EFW from July until December 2023.

    Co-led by Mike Faloon and James Keepnews, Elysium Furnace Works is a cooperative project that seeks to present the work of upcoming artists in dedicated art-focused settings. While not exclusive to live music, EFW primarily works through live music venues in and around the Hudson Valley.

    2023 Lineup

    Brass Bridge Quartet – Ballet Arts Studio, Beacon – July 22 at 8:00 p.m.

    The new additions to the season, Brass Bridge Quartet, features four celebrated multi-instrumentalists all performing on upright double bass. A new band formed in 2023, members include: Che Chen, a guitarist for the band 75 Dollar Bill; Dave Hofstra; William Parker; and Dave Sewelson, an accomplished, veteran baritone saxophonist. The band seeks to “explore the lower frequencies of improvisation.”

    They will be performing at a new location for EFW, the Ballet Arts Studio at 107 Teller Avenue in Beacon. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door, though the advance discount ends at midnight on the evening before the performance. Tickets can be found here.

    exclusiveOr – Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, Poughkeepsie – Sept. 23

    A duo that uses electronic sound to leave behind conventional definitions of music. The two members of the group are Sam Pluta, a Peabody Institute professor of Computer Music and Music Engineering & Technology, as well as Jeff Snyder, a director of Electronic Music and the Princeton Laptop Orchestra at Princeton University.

    Sana Nagano’s Smashing Humans – Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, Poughkeepsie – Oct. 21

    Led by the Brooklyn-based noise-jazz violinist Sana Nagano, the band also features Anna Webber on saxophones, Jonathan Goldberger on guitar, Kim Cass on bass, and Danny Sher on drums.

    Joe McPhee with Strings – Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, Poughkeepsie – Nov. 18

    The group, which features legendary Poughkeepsie-based multi-instrumentalist Joe McPhee, is a large string ensemble that includes: bassists Michael Bisio and Hillard Greene; cellists Fred Lonberg-Holm and Lester St. Louis; violists Melanie Dyer and Mat Maneri; violinists Rosi Hertlein and Gwen Laster; and guitarists James Keepnews and Billy Stein.

    Joe Fielder – Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, Poughkeepsie – Dec. 16

    A solo performance by consummate trombonist, composer, and arranger Joe Fielder. It is built on his recent solo recordings of “The Howland Sessions,” and will close EFW’s 2023 season.

    For more information, check out Elysium Furnace Works’ Facebook page.

  • In Focus: New York State Blues Festival, Day 1

    The 31st edition of the New York State Blues Festival kicked off Thursday afternoon of June 15th at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, underneath beautiful blue skies.  The annual event, which has grown substantially over the last thirty years, is known for being one of the largest, free, multi-day blues festivals in the northeast, and features a mixture of local, regional, and national blues acts.

    Brandon Santini performs at the 2023 NYS Blues Festival

    The festivities kicked off Thursday afternoon with a high energy set by Syracuse’s own Fillmore Blues Band.  As the band took to the stage, the areas in front of the stage were already filled with early arriving blues fans, eager to get the party started.  Festival goers sang and danced as the Fillmore Blues Band weaved their way through a 75 minute set of covers and originals.  The set showcased a band known for their dynamic musical improvisation.  Led by Mike Petroff on harmonica and vocals, the performance did not disappoint those in attendance.  Petroff even took his harmonica into the crowd, playing stage-side on top of a table, giving passionate onlookers an up close view of the musician.

    The Fillmore Blues Band kicked off the 2023 NYS Blues Festival

    Next up was Memphis based rocker and blues harmonicist, Brandon Santini.  Santini launched into his set with a harmonica solo which set the stage for his performance.  The set was high energy, and saw crunchy blues guitar riffs to back Santini’s deep vocals and harmonica playing.   Santini paid tribute blues harmonica legend Sonny Boy Williamson, with a phenomenal rendition of “Nine Below Zero”.  Santini, who played the festival in 2016, was easily an early favorite of the audience as many in attendance came donning his merchandise.  His set did not disappoint.

    Brandon Santini performs at the 2023 NYS Blues Festival

    Headlining the evening were the Blood Brothers ft Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia.  The duo of blues guitar heavy-weights were touring in support of their January 2023 full length album Blood Brothers.  Easily one of the most anticipated sets going into the weekend, the two did not let those in attendance down.  The long time friends, known for their immense musical chemistry on stage, showcased why Joe Bonamassa once stated “They finish each other’s sentences, musically.” Their set, which leaned heavily on tracks from their self titled release, saw the pair dual on many guitar solos.  Their passion for the music was visible from the audience, as the two routinely flashed smiles to each other as they tried to “out dual” the other. 

    Blood Brothers ft Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia perform at the 2023 NYS Blues Festival

    The festival continues through Saturday and features headliner and blues legend, Buddy Guy with direct support from Samantha Fish on Saturday night. Admission is free.

  • Louis Armstrong House Museum Celebrates 80 Years With New Building Opening in July

    The Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens announced it is celebrating its 80th anniversary and officially opening its new state-of-the-art building on July 6.

    Louis Armstrong Musuem
    Photo credit Albert Vercerka/Esto.

    Louis Armstrong is a definitive arbiter of Jazz and America’s first Black popular music icon, entertaining millions from heads of state and royalty to the kids on his stoop in the working-class neighborhood of Corona, Queens. The Louis Armstrong House Museum preserves his legacy by offering guided tours of the historic home and preserving Armstrong’s 60,000-piece archives. The brand-new Louis Armstrong Center, located across the street from the historic home, will further help celebrate his legacy by offering year-round exhibitions, performances, readings, lectures, and screenings through an array of public programs for all ages. It now includes the home itself that reflects the personal values of Louis Armstrong and the garden that serves as a place for gatherings and a place for live performances.

    This is a landmark moment for the Louis Armstrong House Museum. Standing on the shoulders of the jazz and community greats who have come before us, the new Louis Armstrong Center invites today’s musicians, neighbors, and global fans to discover Louis and Lucille Armstrong’s story from a new perspective. We will bring the Armstrongs’ unique archives alive through new interactive events. And we will ensure that music once again rings out on 107th Street through groundbreaking programs in collaboration with emerging artists and contemporary icons.

    Executive Director Regina Bain.

    The opening of the 14,000 square foot Center has spurred the creation of new programming. The Museum is announcing the upcoming season of its groundbreaking Armstrong Now, which will feature the creation and debut of new works by Esperanza Spalding, Amyra León, and Antonio Brown. Armstrong Now will provide established and emerging artists with a platform to create new work inspired by Armstrong’s legacy, as well as the vast collection of artifacts and documents in the Armstrong archives. 

    Also included at the Center is the new exhibition curated by Jason Moran, Here To Stay will look at Louis Armstrong’s five-decade career as an innovative musician, rigorous archivist, consummate collaborator, and community builder. “In Here to Stay, we amplify Louis Armstrong’s ability to connect with communities locally and globally. His star shines bright worldwide, but especially here at his home in Corona, Queens. I consider this one of the ‘wonders’ of the world, meaning, we have Lucille and Louis’ magnificent home, and now a museum dedicated to his life and archive,” said Moran.

    Louis Armstrong Museum
    Photo provided by the Louis Amstrong Museum.

    Ticketing and information about all of the Louis Armstong Museum’s events and programs can be found here.

  • Music On The Green Returns To Saranac Lake

    Saranac Lake’s Music on the Green concert series is back for another year of summer programming. Located in the picturesque Adirondack Mountains, Saranac Lake has been hosting the concert series for a decade. 

    Music on the Green runs from July 5 through August 9 and takes place every Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm. All the concerts are held at Riverside Park and are free to the public. The series aims to shine a spotlight on Saranac Lake’s downtown and arts scene. 

    Since its inception in 2013, Music on the Green has brought 60 different music groups from various genres to the mountains. This year artists from all over New York and Vermont will make their way to Saranac Lake to share offerings of rock, jazz, soul, country, and more.

    Summer Lineup:

    July 5: Los Blancos- a roots and blues group from Syracuse 

    July 12: Fenimore Blues- a blues and rock outfit based out of Saratoga Springs

    July 19: Freight- an Ithaca alt-country group 

    July 26: Mo’ Mojo- a zydeco band looking to channel the spirit of New Orleans 

    August 2: High & Mighty Brass Band- a groovy Brooklyn jazz brass ensemble with hints of hip-hop

    August 9: Mal Maïz- Vermont musicians with a unique take Cumbia and other Latin sounds

    More information and details here.

  • The Park Theater Foundation Presents Additional ‘Third Thursday Jazz’ Prior to Kicking Off 2023 Crandall Park Concert Series

    The Park Theater Foundation has recently wrapped its 2022/23 season and is headed towards a music filled summer with their annual Summer Series Concerts Live at the Crandall Park Bandshell beginning on June 30th. Before the kick off, however, the foundation is adding an extra ‘Third Thursday Jazz’ performance into their schedule on June 15th for the Glens Falls area to enjoy.

    The performance scheduled for the 15th is a special edition of The Park Theater Foundation’s ‘Third Thursday Jazz’ performances that run on the third Thursday of each month. This performance will feature The Matt Niedbalski Trio featuring Rob Lindquist on piano and bassist Jason Emmonds. Throughout the spring, Niedbalski and various other local Jazz musicians performed and taught students from the Glens Falls City School District about the history of jazz music and the importance of sound and lighting technology. Not only will this event present incredible jazz to the community but is free-of-charge to students from the Glens Falls City School District and their families as a part of the foundation’s Music & Technology Program.

    Just two weeks following the final ‘Third Thursday Jazz’ performance of the season, the foundation’s Summer Series Concerts Live at the Crandall Park Bandshell will begin. The third annual series is free and open to the public as it welcomes music lovers from all around to enjoy talent new and old every Friday evening from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM lasting until July 28th. The concerts will feature the harmony power house The Ladles, gypsy swing ensemble Hot Club of Saratoga, the top tier regional musicians of Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band, the uniquely blended voice and enthralling vision of The Clements Brothers, and the songwriting powerhouse Girl Blue.

    As The Park Theater Foundation has a knack for packing as much music into their events as possible, the summer series will also have an additional free performance on June 16th. The concert will be held at The Barn at French Mountain of Lake George from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM and will feature Dr. Funke’s 100% Natural Good Time Family Band. This will be a jam-packed musical event featuring members of Chestnut Grove, Let’s Be Leonard and Wild Adriatic, with additional special guests.

    With the countless incredible shows highlighting impressive NY talent, The Park Theater Foundation stays true to their mission of enhancing the accessibility of the arts within the local Glens Falls and Lake George community.

  • The Brewster Summer Music Series Is Back For A Third Year

    The third annual Brewster Summer Music Series returns with seven straight weeks of programming. Organized by the Town of Southeast Cultural Arts Coalition (CAC), the concerts will run every Wednesday from June 14 through July 26. 

    All of the performances will take place at the Veterans Park Gazebo in Brewster. The concerts will also feature contests, raffles, and food. The artists performing come from a diverse set of genres including rock, pop, jazz, and more. 

    Brewster Summer Music Series

    CAC is a non-profit group that aims to create and preserve the cultural arts of the Town of Southeast and nearby communities. Along with the Summer Music Series, the organization is also involved with a space to showcase local art and the renovation of Southeast’s Old Town Hall. 

    Brewster is a village located in southeast Putnam County and is part of the town of Southeast. The village made a name for itself as it was a prominent stop on the railroad line that ran from New York City.

    The Brewster Summer Music Series is free and open to members of the public. Details and more information is on the website.

    Summer Lineup

    June 14- Jake Wildhorn (Rock, Pop, Americana) and Genevieve Faivre (Latin, New Orleans Jazz) 

    June 21- George Gierer (folk) and Artie Tobia Band (Roots Rock)

    June 28- George Mallas (singer-songwriter) and ⅓ of Sophie (Funk)

    July 5- Francine Tesler and Jay Prince & Friends (Rock, Funk)

    July 12- Bob Stanhope and North Country Band (Country, Western, Americana)

    July 19- Ivan Polanco (singer-songwriter) and Santa Barbara Jazz Quartet (Jazz, Soul, Latin)

    July 26- Erik Rabasca and The Song Island Band (Acoustic Rock)

  • Benny Benack III premieres music video for single “Gary, Indiana” ahead of June 30 Album

    Jazz artist Benny Benack III has released the music video for his cover of “Gary, Indiana” ahead of his June 30 album Third Time’s The Charm. Additionally, the lead single for the project features pianist Emmett Cohen in the song and music video.

    The cover for Benny Benack III’s June 30 album “Third Time’s The Charm.”

    Benack’s rendition of “Gary, Indiana” from The Music Man holds a special place in his heart, with it being the first song he would ever perform as a professional. The performance truly comes full circle with the release of his new music video corresponding to the cover.

    The significance of the classic song can also be tied back to his younger years and the musical bond with his mother when learning how to sing/perform.

    “My mom played piano with me, and I would be like 8 years old, walking out onstage in the middle of my dad’s concert. My mom would hold my hand, and we’d go out and I’d sing ‘Gary, Indiana.’” 

    – Benny Benack III

    An Emmy-nominated jazz musician, Benack comes from a long line of notable jazz and bandleader talents that started in Pittsburgh, PA.

    Between His grandfather Benny Benack Sr., a trumpeter/bandleader, father Benny Benack Jr., a saxophonist/clarinetist, and mother Claudia Benack, a voice professor at Carnegie Mellon University, the family piles on the talent.

    Past Albums and Accolades

    Not only does Benack showcase his jazz and trumpeting skills, but he also pairs them with powerful vocals. Utilizing this dual talent has earned him accolades such as receiving second place for Rising Star Male Vocalist and winning Rising Star Trumpeter in the 2022 Downbeat Critics Poll.

    With the rising stardom in the jazz music industry comes the excitement for Third Time’s The Charm, his first solo album since 2020.

    The cover from Benny Benack III’s first album “One Of A Kind.”

    The 2017 release One Of A Kind and sophomore 2020 project A Lot Of Livin’ To Do fully immerse the audience in his vocal and jazz music skills, something that will continue and display Benack’s full maturation in the music industry.

    Premiering the music video for “Gary, Indiana” with Emmett Cohen, Benack’s journey towards the June 30 album is just starting, and is proud to present a glimpse into his next body of work. Third Times A Charm will drop via La Reserve/Bandstand presents.