The Old Songs Festival of Traditional Music and Dance will hold its 43rd annual celebration at Altamont Fairgrounds in Albany County from June 23-25.
The three main stage concerts each feature multiple artists on Friday and Saturday from 6:30 -11 p.m., and Sunday from 3:30 – 7 p.m. in the leafy, open-air main stage area, and over 100 daytime workshops, dances, and performances. Also featured are craft, food, and instrument vendors, and a well-run children’s activity area for all three days of the festival.
Pianists perform at a previous Old Songs Music Festival at Altamont Fairgrounds. Credit: Old Songs Festival.
The Old Songs Music Festival held annually at Altamont Fairgrounds since 1997, celebrates Folk, Celtic, Quebecois, Roots, Americana, and World music from Ireland, Scotland, England, Quebec, Italy, India, the Midwest, Appalachia, New England, and more. This participatory event for the whole family encourages audience members to join jam sessions, take part in learn-how sessions, and classes, sing sacred harps, or move their feet to our great dance bands. School-age children who play an instrument can participate in the “Great Groove Band,” which has a stage performance at the Sunday festival, with the help of music coaches and musical instruction.
Old Songs, Inc., centered in the Capital Region, is a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping traditional music and dance alive through festivals, concerts, dances, and educational programs.
Tickets may be purchased online, by phone, or at the festival gate.
Open to the public for the first time, the Hudson Valley Meadowlark Festival is set to take place from Sept. 8-10 at Stone Ridge Orchard & Farmers Market in Stone Ridge, NY, featuring some of the most storied names in Americana, indie rock, and experimental music.
Meadowlark Festival is a curated three-day experience celebrating American roots and independent music. This year the festival is open to the public, last year it was an invite-open event, featuring Mississippi bluesman RL Boyce and NYC singer/songwriter Jeffrey Lewis, among others. The venue is the picturesque Stone Ridge Orchard, operating for the past 200 years as a productive, diversified farm, raising a wide variety of sustainably-grown gourmet fruits and vegetables on 115 scenic rolling acres. The performance site will be under the shade of the farm’s iconic nearly 400-year-old oak tree, the jewel of Stone Ridge, next to a stand of some of the oldest apple trees in the region.
Meadowlark producer Daniel Leslie, who hails from the Hudson Valley region, graduated from Vassar College, and now resides in Brooklyn, describes its inspiration, “This grew out of a vision shared with some of my musician friends about blending traditional and experimental music in a special, secluded setting,” he said. “The Hudson Valley is such an epicenter of music culture, it’s the perfect setting for this type of experience we wanted to create that blends traditional music with an edgier counterculture vibe.” Besides music, the festival will feature many food trucks and vendors, from fresh produce from farmers’ markets to homemade cider donuts.
Saturday, Sept. 8, features New York singer-songwriter, harpist, and guitarist Lizzie No, one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary Americana music. Her 2017 debut album Hard Won was hailed as “simultaneously understated and fervent” by Billboard Magazine, and her 2019 album Vanity was a hit at college radio stations across the country, cracking the NACC Top Adds Chart. She is currently working on her third studio album, and this summer she joins the Basic Folk podcast team as guest cohost. Also featured is Brooklyn-based indie pop artist beccs, hailed as one of NYLON Magazine’s “favorite cool girls,” and Massachusetts-based singer-songwriter Cloudbelly, aka Corey Laitman. Accompanied by a rotating cast of inspired instrumentalists and friends, Laitmain makes music that includes poetic lyricism, stirring vocals, and a disarming stage presence.
Lizzie No.
Saturday, Sept. 9 features a wide array of artists, including headliners Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. The band is led by Alec Ounsworth, described by Pitchfork as, “musically adventurous… melodic, exuberant indie rock…” After nearly two decades Ounsworth remains one of music’s most distinctive voices. Jolie Holland has knotted together a century of American song, from jazz to blues, to soul, to rock and roll, into an indescribable sound. Taking inspiration from the likes of Mavis Staples or Al Green, her voice is immediately booming and gritty.
Continuing, Saturday also includes Chris Staples, who has garnered over a million streams on Spotify, creating indie rock music for the past 25 years. Ending the day is Hudson Valley’s own Babehoven. Maya Bon, the singer-songwriter behind the band, writes about the confusing and jarring aspects of life with emotional vulnerability, collaborating with producer Ryan Albert.
Alec Ounsworth aka Clap Your Hands Say Yeah.
The final day of the festival on Sunday features Grammy-nominated quartet Devotchka, described by the NY Times as “striking… attention-grabbing.” Formed in Denver by multi-instrumentalists Nick Urata (vocals, guitar, trumpet), Tom Hagerman (violin, accordion), Jeanie Schroder (sousaphone, bass), and percussionist Shawn King, Devotchka infuses modern indie music with a global flavor. Also featured is Chris Smither, described by the Associated Press as one of the absolute best singer-songwriters in the world, filling concert venue after concert venue with eager fans waiting to hear his electrifying folk and blues tunes.
Other performers on the final day include genre-defying New Orleans hard rockers Quintron & Miss Pussycat, creating 14 full-length records over the past 15 years that have the psychedelic soul of traditional New Orleans party music. Finally, Boston-based blues guitarist Ryan Lee Crosby performs, described by Aquarium Drunkard as “sometimes light and free-flowing, sometimes intense and heavy.” Other acts are to be announced.
Pete Mancini is a welcomed troubadour for our times, by building community though his music. His lyric are as comfortable as your favorite weather-worn blue jeans, and his style is reminiscent of Tom Petty and Hank Williams, with a hint of John Prine. Looking for some new music to add to your playlist? Check out Pete Mancini’s latest EP release, The Commonwealth Sessions Volume 1.
With Mancini’s signature blend of Americana and folk, this EP is sure to be a hit with music lovers of all kinds. Over the years, Mancini has opened for acts such as Jimmy Webb, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Pure Prairie League, Robbie Fulks, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, Kevin Gordon, and Iain Matthews.
I was fortunate to stumble on Mancini over a year ago during the pioneering days of The Long Island Sound podcast. Pete was one of my early guests on the podast and I was fortunate enough to sit down with him and talk about his travels and ever growing catalog of songs on the most recent episode out today. Pete Mancini keeps popping up on my radar. In a soon-to-be episode of The Long Island Sound Podcast, I interviewed Bill Herman of Paradiddle Records only to find Pete singing on the opening track of the Hank Williams Uncovered album, “Lovesick Blues” to perfection. More to come on the Hank Williams’ project on May 12th. You can find a deeper conversation with Pete Mancini right here on The Long Island Sound.
Commonwealth Music Sessions
The feeling of loneliness, isolation and lack of companionship have been on the rise in the past few years. Covering the music scene in this little corner of New York State, I often search for connection and community, pleasantly surprised to pick up on a musican who lifts me up, and welcomes me into their world. I found artists who love their labor, while patching us up with their original music. Pete Mancini is a craftsman and consumate performer, a troubador who on track, in my opinion to be the next Gordon Lightfoot. The late Gordon Lightfoot (passed away on May 1st), was a favorite of both John Prine and Bob Dylan. I hear a thread of Gordon in Mancini’s music as he is admired as well among the community of musicians on Long Island.
New EP Release
Mancini, a prolific songwriter, had just buttoned up some thirty songs for his next album, yet to be released. There were five songs, which didn’t fit the theme of the pending album, so Pete decided to release an EP on May 5th called, The Commonwealth Music Sessions, Volume One, which can be found here at his Bandcamp site. Pete assembled a fine group of musicians who played on the EP, including Joe Leone, Delaney Hafener and Nick Balzano.
EP’s are often used to keep an artist’s audience engaged. Listenting to his latest EP, I found myself craving for more and maybe that’s the unintended consequence for a fan on releasing an EP with an album in the wings. Pete gave me an exclusive preview of the opening song, “Golden Hour” on our quickie podcast interview being released today. A great commentary on vanity, and the images we build up in seeking admoration and attention.
Lamenting Loss
The passing of good friend and collaborator, especially one so close becomes pain that dwells deep in one’s heart. On September 16, 2021, Travis McKeveny, a well-respected singer/songwriter from Long Island, passed away. Pete often mentions the impact Travis had on his craft, and how much he learned from him. Pete is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, playing the music of Travis McKeveny. There’s no better way to pay tribute to those who built us up, than by performing their music with friends.
He was my brother in arms, in music and in life. I miss him dearly.
Pete Mancini
Upcoming Shows
You can find Pete Mancini paying all around from New York City to various venues on Long Island. Friday, May 5th, Pete will be opening up for Rhett Miller at My Father’s Place in Glen Cove. On May 13th, in support of Labor and the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Pete joins a wonderful lineup of artists at the Bald Hill Ampitheater for the Mayday Music Festival, including Blues Traveler, The Wallflowers, Wheatus, John Hampson (Singer Nine Days/”Absolutely (Story of a Girl)”), and The Belle Curves (Delaney Haefner, a recent guest on the podcast)
Leave the Loneliness Behind
Old man gushing alert! I’ve interviewed many artists over the past year and a half. From time to time, I become enamored with the music and the musician. Pete Mancini is a rising star in my book, and a must-see performer who keenly observes the world around us, articulating needed insights, while entertaining in a folksy manner. We can listen to music on our favorite platforms, but there’s nothing that replaces the live performance! Pete Mancini was generous enough to join Mike Nugent and The Blue Moon Band for an experiment of sorts, called The Long Island Sound Showcase. We did a livesteam podcast, featuring Nugent as the main act and Mancini performing the second set.
During the show we all got to experience Mancini as he welcomed the audience into his world and entertained us though song and conversation. I’ll take pride in being a broken-record preacher of the benefits of live local performances! I emplore of all us to heal though the music, and confront the isolation and loneliness by getting out to hear the music. To hear the full interview with Pete Mancini, search for The Long Island Sound, wherever you listen to podcasts. As I say, “Be generous with your joy, keep your spirits high, and let the music take you on a journey.”
The Waterhole Music Lounge in Saranac Lake has announced the schedule for the annual 2023 Party On The Patio concert series.
Waterhole Music Lounge is Saranac Lake’s music venue of choice, located right on Main Street. The three story lounge features multiple bar spaces, and an outdoor performance space that creates a truly unique concert experience. The annual free Party On The Patio shows are a regional favorite, taking place every Thursday night at 6pm, starting in April and running through October.
The Party On The Patio 2023 lineup has 24 bands from multiple states including Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. The lineup also includes local favorites from across the state, including Hanzolo, Folkfaces, Rasinhead, and Los Blancos.
Each show is free to attend, but limited to concertgoers 21 and up. For more information, and to view the full schedule, please visit the Waterhole’s website.
The aftermath of the quarantine has left many of us longing for experiences and community. The ability of an artist to constitute community is what I love about music, especially local original music. Nancy Atlas is a well-known entity on the East End of Long Island, especially in her hometown of Montauk, famously called “The drinking village with a fishing problem”. Nancy knows how to inspire a community and connects with her audience though passion and performance.
I had the double blessing of interviewing Nancy on The Long Island Sound podcast and seeing her live recently at Stephen Talkhouse, a venue which I call the CBGB’s of Amagansett. Nancy became my antidote for the longing that can never be quenched, as I continue to explore the wellspring of talent on Long Island.
If you can find something that you’re passionate about and you can make a living at it, then you’re a lucky person
Nancy Atlas
A Force of Nature
Before we dive into the rollercoaster ride of a show, it’s important to get an understanding how this female force of nature embraces her craft like the ocean envelops us as we venture into the deep.
Prior to her moniker as The Nancy Atlas project, this Commack, NY native went to college in London to study marketing. Upon graduation, she was hard-pressed to find a job in her chosen field. With the creative juices flowing, original songs in hand, Nancy went to an open mic hosted by Johnny Leitch aka Johnny Blood, a fantastic guitarist in his own right. The rest is history.
The most important thing is to surround yourself with people that are better than you
Nancy Atlas
There are a wide range of artist influences who shaped her sound, from Johnny Cash and Emmylou Harris to Lucinda Williams. Atlas also recounted how her experiences growing up on Long Island have influenced her music, particularly the ocean and the beach, which she described as her “sanctuary.”
Throughout the interview, Atlas discussed her creative process and how she approaches songwriting. She explained that she likes to write about real-life experiences and emotions, drawing inspiration from her own life and the world around her.
Atlas emphasized the importance of collaboration, both with her band members and other musicians in the industry. She described how working with others can bring new ideas and perspectives to the table, and ultimately lead to better music.
The more honest you are with your songwriting; the more people connect with it.
Nancy Atlas
We discussed the challenges of being a musician, particularly in today’s music industry.
Atlas acknowledged that the rise of streaming services has changed the landscape for musicians, making it more difficult to earn a living solely from music sales. However, she also noted that the internet has made it easier for independent artists to connect with their fans and reach new audiences. Atlas emphasized the importance of adapting to change and finding new ways to make a living as a musician.
I think the hardest thing about being an artist in this day and age is finding the balance between the art and the commerce.
Nancy Atlas
Performing at Stephen Talkhouse
During the interview, I told Nancy how I hoped to go to Stephen Talkhouse someday, and she quickly goateed me in to attending her April 22nd show. I was not disappointed. With the intent to open opportunities to others, Nancy had the PasserBy Band opened up for her, and the band was electric with youthful energy and talent. Nancy’s son Cash, a member of the band was joined by a cast of East Hampton Highschoolers who rounded out the group.
PasserBy covered Santana’s Oye Como Va, and Dexys Midnight Runners, Come on Eileen to the delight of a welcoming audience, as a proud mother stood in the wings with admiration and pride
The Nancy Atlas Project took the stage promptly at 8:15 pm, as a lighting bolt of energy pulsed with Nancy as she began to strum the intro, soon to be joined by her longtime guitarist, Johnny Blood. Her set was filled with original songs, that were familiar to adoring fans, as I watched and listened to a community of Eastender’s revel with enjoyment and celebration.
A key moment, came when Nancy recalled a famous ocean rescue in Montauk, as detailed in the New York Times best selling novel, A Speck in the Sea. Nancy’s song “The Tale of Johnny Load” recounts the key events in the “Montauk Miracle” and has become somewhat of an anthem to how the Montauk community came together to beging the search for Johnny. The song is about a voyage of the fishing boat , Anna Mary with only Johnny “Load” Aldridge and Anthony Sosinski aboard. Anthony Sosinski, one of the crewmembers was on hand, and took the stage to lead the crowd in a Happy Birthday song to both Nancy and her sidekick Johnny Blood.
You can see Nancy Atlas performing at Stephen Talkhouse on May 20th, it’s certianly a bucketlist item for any music lover.
Music and the Power to Heal
She talked about how music has the power to heal and bring people together, and how she hopes her music can have a positive impact on her listeners.
My interview with Nancy Atlas on the Long Island Sound podcast provided a fascinating look into the life and career of one of Long Island’s most talented musicians. From her early influences to her creative process and the challenges of the music industry, Atlas shared insights and stories that are sure to inspire aspiring musicians and fans alike. Her performance at Stephen Talkhouse was a powerful reminder of the healing power of music and the importance of spreading positivity in today’s world. If you’re a fan of Nancy Atlas or just love great music, be sure to check out her interview on The Long Island Sound podcast.
Sorry we missed you the past couple months, we were too busy seeing shows! Hopefully you were too. May is here, the flowers are blooming, and so is the live music in Rochester. Here are five lovely shows popping up this month that you should probably go check out.
Acid Mothers Temple returns to the Bug Jar from Japan for the first time in a handful of years, bringing back their intensely psychedelic rock perfectly suited for the trippy little bar on Monroe. Whether you’re on drugs or not, prepare to be sent to another dimension. Austin’s My Education joins them and Rochester’s Pengo will get things kicked off.
The show starts at 9pm and tickets are $15/$18dos.
May 11: Seán Barna at Radio Social
A day before his new album, An Evening at Macri Park, drops on Kill Rock Stars, Seán Barna will play a free show at Radio Social. Be one of the first to hear this incredible queer singer/songwriter and his band perform the album, which was recorded locally at 1809 Studios. Pluck and Cece Vile will open the show.
Pimp Biscuits is Aqueous’ Mike Gantzer and Evan McPhaden, and Pickle Mafia’s Marco Cirigliano. They don’t get together often, but when they do, watch out! And with Aqueous on indefinite hiatus, all the more reason to get in to enjoy some Gantzer and McPhaden magic. With previously recommended Vertices opening the show, we’re in for a night of heavy improvisation. With Pigeons Playing Ping Pong opening up the Lilac Festival earlier in the evening, the possibilities for some nice sit-ins are high.
David Grisman’s son Sam recently assembled a band, heavy on Rochester talent, to explore the music of his father and Jerry Garcia and beyond. Area guitarist Aaron Lipp and drummer Chris English join him, and multi-instrumentalist Ric Robertson rounds out the quartet. They interpret the music acoustically, electrically, and eclectically. This one is going to sound great nestled in between the lilacs. Get there early for Organ Fairchild and Digglers Bridge.
Music starts at 4pm, Sam Grisman comes on at 7pm, and it’s all free.
Margaret Explosion is a long running institution in Rochester. There’s no one named Margaret and the music is decidedly unexplosive, but their regular gigs at the cafe inside The Little Theater are always a treat. Their shows are completely improvised “slow-motion psychedelia.” Melissa Davies has been joining the quartet on cello recently and the results have been stunning.
It was a night that deserves more words and praise than I can possibly articulate, but for people like John Darnielle, the mastermind behind The Mountain Goats, finding words has never been a problem. Making a career out of shouting whatever comes to mind and never sitting on an idea long enough to question it, the acclaimed novelist and songwriter has toured all over the world and released a staggering 21 studio albums since adopting The Mountain Goats moniker in the early 90’s.
More than 600 songs and countless miles later, it’s almost hard to believe the band has never played a gig in Albany before. On Tuesday, April 18th at Empire Live, that surprising fact was finally laid to rest. The night would have extra special meaning for one member of band, as the cathartic show would also serve as a birthday celebration for keyboard player/multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas.
The Mountain Goats, making their Albany debut, have plenty to celebrate this year
Opening the evening was Knoxville, TN singer-songwriter Adeem the Artist. Dawning a Canadian tuxedo and resembling a look somewhere between Jeff Tweedy and Ryan Adams, you could already tell he wasn’t like the other boys. One fan immediately yelled out “What’s your name?” “My name? I don’t have one. I’m Adeem the Artist. It turns out there was already a rapper.” Demonstrating spectacular stage presence and finding a balance between serious and sarcastic, the lyrics to his songs were nothing to joke about. Beginning with the opening song “I Never Came Out,” the audience listened intently as the soul-searching lyrics poured out of the man originally born Kyle Bingham. “Fervent For the Hunger” came next before we would learn a little bit more about Bingham’s roots and his Aunt Peggie on “Painkillers & Magic” from his most recent, fan-funded 2022 album White Trash Revelry.
Adeem the Artist performing in Albany, NY on 4/18/23
While the structure of the songs came off as rather traditional, by this point in the set, it was clear Adeem the Artist was doing something very special and very brave. A queer, southern Christian, blue-collar country songwriter. As unpopular as that may be in some areas, the Albany crowd here was totally down with it and fully invested in every word he had to say. Things would pick up for the foot-stomping “Run This Town,” before an eager fan requested a rare song that stopped Bingham in his tacks. “Tiger Prince of Knoxville”? How do you know that one? I wrote that a long time ago when everyone was trying to cash in on the Tiger King phenomena, so I figured I would too. I can’t believe someone here has actually heard it! Let’s see if I remember how it goes.” He did and the crowd loved it. They got even more into it on the next song, “Going to Hell,” which featured a fun, full room ‘call and response’ and made you think “it won’t be long before this guy is a very big star.” Filled with strong social commentary and hilarious banter, Adeem the Artist played the title track from his 2021 album Cast Iron Pansexual to round out his fantastic opening set. After a brief intermission, it was finally time for the main event.
The Mountain Goats made their long awaited Albany debut on 4/18/23
Walking out to Foghat’s “Fool For the City,” The Mountain Goats would methodically craft the story they wanted to tell. Consisting of front man and vocalist John Darnielle, this incarnation of the band also includes longtime collaborators Peter Hughs on bass, multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas and Superchunk/Bob Mould drummer Jon Wurster. Beginning with the brooding buildup of 2008’s “In the Craters of the Moon,” the tempo picked up during the dreamy, reverb drenched “Hostages” from the bands most recent album, Bleed Out. Darnielle would introduce the next song by saying “this is about the incipient android takeover” before launching into “Incandescent Ruins.” Slowing things down a bit with “one of them bible songs” in “Hebrews 11:40.” “We’re still working out how this one goes and we’ve been doing that for at least 10 years,” he chuckled. The energy continued to build straight into the song “Younger,” which on this night, meant a little more to birthday boy Matt Douglas. Uncorking one of his most expressive saxophone solos of the night on the song, the entire crowd would sing “happy birthday” to him prior to his beautiful piano duet with Darnielle on the song “Wear Black.”
Mountain Goats multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas celebrated his birthday on 4/18/23
Darnielle would then play a series of solo songs, beginning with “Jenny,” which the crowd knew every word too. He would remark that he doesn’t plan this section of the set, he just waits for the spirit to move him. “That’s why I envy the Quakers. They’ll sit there for 20-30 minutes waiting for the spirit. I don’t have that kind of confidence. And the other thing is I’ve never been to Albany before, right, so there’s a conflict. I tend to prefer the newer songs with my band, but some people have been waiting a long ass time to see me play some old songs.” Darnielle continues, “So then I feel obligated to play the super old songs, but then the people mainly into the newer ones are like, “I don’t know what that one in the middle was about. Some guy who wanted to kill somebody?” he joked. “This is one of those,” before playing “Black Molly” from 2002’s Bitter Melon Farm.
The crowd became noticeably more exited at the opening cords of another 2002 song, “Color in Your Cheeks,” to the point Darnielle had to stop them from clapping along. “Not to be ungracious, but I don’t recommend the clapping because it loses it’s place and my timing is inconsistent.” “When people start yelling the words along with me, I’m like ‘no, to get into the zone of this song I need people not to be yelling it back at me. It’s just a personal song about somebody I know.” After it’s conclusion, he would remark “I changed the chorus because somebody thought it was too mean. It was my wife.”
The Mountain Goats performing at Empire Live on 4/18/23
A laidback lounge version of “Abandoned Flesh” came next before Darnielle would profess his love for The Grateful Dead and say he “just noticed the next three songs on the setlist are alligatored together, so can the tapers in the crowd please refer to this section as “The Goths Suite,” ala The Dead’s Terrapin Station Suite. The trifecta would include the songs “Abandoned Flesh,“ flowing directly into “Andrew Eldricth is Moving Back to Leeds,” and finally into “Rain in Soho” to complete the so-called Goths Suite segment. Bouncing back “Lizard Suit” and “Palmcorder Yajna,” Darnielle would remark that he was in awe of the Albany audience. “When your back in the dressing room and hear that there’s 800 people in a town you’ve never played before, it could go a couple of ways. You know, like there’s people waiting to hear one or two songs, and you know, you’re not going to play those at the top of the set because you’re not stupid. You’re so amazing, I thank you so much.”
John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats performing in Albany on 4/18/23
An intimate and powerful rendition of “Tallahassee” would follow, prompting Darnielle to call an audible and add a song on the fly. Turning to his bandmates and saying, “Guys, we gotta add another one. That was second to last, but this has been a pretty special show for me. And if they are being amazing, you need to play something from The Sunset Tree.” With that, the well-behaved crowd was rewarded with “Song for Dennis Brown” from the bands iconic 2005 album. Playing off each other and jumping from side to side with huge smiles, a hard rocking “Training Montage” would bring the main portion of the set to a close and leave the Albany audience begging for more.
Make a Wish: The Mountain Goats had their cake and ate it too during their Albany debut on 4/18/23
After walking off stage, the band would return with a birthday cake to present to multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas. Easing into the encore portion of the show with “You and Your Memory,” one of the bands trademark songs came next with the anthemic “Heretic Pride.” With anticipation reaching a fever pitch for the bands two most popular songs still on the table, Darnielle would have some more fun with the audience. “You may not know this, but there’s like a shadow version of “No Children” forming, waiting for its chance. It’s called “Jazz No Children.” It’s the way mellower version. “Jazz No Children” is the one you sing ten years after you needed no children. “Jazz No Children” is the one that comes when some of the details are funny to you instead of sad.
On the preview side of “No Children,” there’s the people who ask me to play it at their wedding, because they think it would be funny. I say to them, ‘friend, I’ll tell you what. I’ll play it at your ten-year anniversary.” I am safe under these circumstances because anybody who would ask me to play “No Children” at their wedding won’t be having a ten-year anniversary. They’re not taking the whole matter seriously. As my drummer would say, “It’s all a big joke to them.” And yet, I hope when those people sit in a lawyer’s office, they have a little song in their head that helps. This is that song and this, such as it is, is the nature of that help.” Seamlessly shifting from a jazz monologue to an all out punk assault, The Mountain Goats would finally deliver the goods and unleash a cathartic version of “No Children” followed up by their biggest hit to date, “This Year,” which took on a life of its own during the Covid-19 pandemic and has become the calling card of the band.
Giving everyone a chance to shout out the lyrics that meant so much to them during lockdown, it was the kind of reaction that made the hair-on-your-neck stand up. Basking in the sustained adulation, Darnielle said “he kinda feels like playing two more.” Opting to go with “Broom People,” the show would finally come to a close with a rambunctious version of “Spent gladiator 2,” which gave Douglas one final sax solo in the birthday spotlight. “Stay alive. Stay alive. Stay forever alive. Thank you, goodnight.”
Watch fan shot footage of The Mountain Goats performing “No Children” on 4/18/23
Just an incredible performance that reinvigorated your spirit and made you feel alive. Part poetry, part social commentary, part punk rock fury – all delivered with a sense of urgency and passion that simply could not be faked. There are no posers in this band and that sentiment deeply connected with the blue-collar Albany audience. Fortunately fans in New York won’t have to wait nearly as long to see The Mountain Goats perform again. Kicking off their lengthy summer tour in early June, the band will play The Rooftop at Pier 17 in NYC on August 4th.
The Mountain Goats | April 18 | Empire Live | Albany
Setlist: In The Craters on the Moon, Hostages, Incandescent Ruins, Hebrews 11:40, Dance Music, Younger, Wear Black, Jenny, Black Molly, Color in Your Cheeks, You Were Cool, Abandoned Flesh, Andrew Eldritch is Moving Back to Leeds > Rain in Soho > Lizard Suit, Palmcorder Yajna, Tallahassee, Song For Dennis Brown, Training Montage, You or Your Memory, Heretic Pride, Jazz No Children > No Children, This Year
Encore: Broom People, Spent Gladiator 2
Watch fan shot footage of The Mountain Goats performing “This Year” on 4/18/23
Adeem the Artist | April 18 | Empire Live | Albany
Setlist: I Never Came Out, Fervent for the Hunger, Painkillers & Magic, Run This Town, Tiger Prince of Knoxville, Going to Hell, Cast-Iron Pansexual
Olivia Barton and Lizzy McAlpine delivered an unforgettable performance at Brooklyn Steel on April 25th. With Olivia’s whimsical and dreamy indie-folk sound, followed by Lizzy’s soulful and emotionally charged ballads, the night was filled with an electric energy that left the audience mesmerized. The two talented musicians complemented each other perfectly, creating a show that will be remembered for a long time to come.
Olivia Barton – Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma
Olivia Barton is a Boston-based singer-songwriter originally from Orlando, Florida. Growing up as the youngest of four children to an English teacher and a literary writer, Barton was a sensitive child who quickly took to songwriting. Her musical influences range from The Eagles, James Taylor, and Indigo Girls, which have all shaped her writing style. Her writing can now be compared to contemporary indie folk rock artists such as Margaret Glaspy, Pinegrove, The Staves, and Phoebe Bridgers.
Olivia Barton Setlist: Good Day, I Don’t Sing My Songs, Control Freak, Sonic [Unreleased], I Don’t Do Anything, if i were a fish [corook cover, with corook], I Love You Just For Trying
Lizzy McAlpine – Photograph by Caroline Reynolds
Lizzy McAlpine is an indie folk singer-songwriter from the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who has been writing music since the 6th grade. She studied songwriting at Berklee College of Music in Boston before leaving in her junior year to pursue music full-time. McAlpine’s debut studio album, Give Me a Minute, released in August 2020, received critical acclaim and has been streamed millions of times on Spotify. She has since released an 8-song EP “When the World Stopped Moving: The Live EP”, made her late-night debut on Jimmy Kimmel, and released her second studio album, Five Seconds Flat. She has a growing global fanbase, as shown by her entirely sold out Spring tour, including 2 shows in NY. With a unique voice and heartfelt lyrics, she has solidified her place in the indie-folk scene.
Lizzy McAlpine Setlist: an ego thing, Over-the-Ocean Call (Andrew), all my ghosts, firearm, doomsday, Give Me A Minute, Nothing / Sad N Stuff, called you again, ceilings, Broken Glass [Unreleased], I Guess [Unreleased], In What World, erase me, come down soon [Unreleased], Pancakes for Dinner, orange show speedway
Olivia Barton – Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma
Olivia Barton’s set was an intimate and engaging affair, with the crowd hanging onto every word and chord. From the very beginning, the audience was in sync with the performer – with one fan even shouting out that they were fellow acapella academy alumni like Barton. She kicked things off with “Good Day”, a buoyant and soulful tune that set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Barton’s banter between songs was just as charming and captivating as her music, with the singer reminiscing about her time living in Brooklyn and working at three restaurants simultaneously. She congratulated the crowd on their strength and resilience, telling them that they must be “strong as hell” to make it in the city. The standout song of the night was undoubtedly “Sonic”, a brand new, unreleased track that Barton explained was actually about the restaurant chain “Steak and Shake” and also about the love of her life. The singer stumbled adorably during her performance, accidentally blending the chords of “I Don’t Do Anything” with “Sonic” – a moment that only added to the overall charm of the night. She closed out her set with “If I Were a Fish”, bringing up her partner and fellow musician Corook to sing the song together – a fitting end to an unforgettable set.
Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma
The US leg of The End of the Movie Tour is going on all the way until May 13 in Oakland, CA before Lizzy jets off to Dublin for the European leg of the sold out tour.
When I think of Blues music, the basic, common names come to mind. The likes of BB King, Muddy Waters, Blind Boy Fuller, and Buddy Guy. These are the classic staples of Blues genre. Another staple with the Blues is a nice pour of bourbon/rye/whiskey, straight up or on the rocks, it pairs well with the classic or modern sounds of Blues. This was the thought process of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member, Neil Giraldo as he founded Three Chord brand of bourbons in 2017. Fast forward to 2023, Giraldo’s company was a presenting sponsor of the 2nd annual Buffalo Blues and Roots Festival.
Taking place on April 22, Buffalo Riverworks Buffalo’s Best Sports Bar & Entertainment hosted 10 acts of amazing Blues talent, each playing approximately 40-minute sets, with the two headliners getting bonus stage time. Oh, and they were doing bourbon samples, too, pretty much a win-win.
Opening the festival was Buffalo’s own Henry’s Summer Kitchen (Henry’s Summer Kitchen | Buffalo NY | Facebook). This unique quartet plays a wide range of tunes, ranging from classic Merle Haggard to current original songs, twangy, old-school country sounds with modern twists. You never know what you are going to get, but you will never be disappointed.
Taking over the stage after Henry’s cleared out his kitchen, Tonemah was ready to jam. Darryl Tonemah (Tonemah)is not your typical musician, let’s make that clear. Not only does Tonemah record and perform music, but he also carries a Ph.D. and has appeared in 3 well-known movies. To boot, he performed at the 2002 Winter Olympics, holding quite the resume.
Performing in Buffalo, though, this full-blooded Native American (Kiowa/Comanche/Tuscarora) was wowing the Riverworks crowd with family on stage with him as a seven piece band. Playing mostly original music, Tonemah shook the stage for about 40 minutes and used every second to make their presence known.
Next up was The Growlers (Growlers Blues Band | Buffalo NY | Facebook) Featuring Jon Lewandowski on vocals and harp, Dan Shurtleff on drums, Rob Enderle on guitar, Ed Croft on bass with guest guitarist Rusty Fisher. Western NY based, these guys came to play, and play they did. With smooth riffs on the bass, Jon doing his best John Popper impression on the harp, and Dan crushing the drums, The Growlers came across as seasoned vets on more of a blues rock set. At this point, a nice bourbon was really hitting me.
Coming to the stage around 315 was The X-Statix with Sharon Bailey (The X-STATIX | Facebook). Bailey hits the stage as a very well-known and regarded funk/blues/jazz voice in the Buffalo area. Punk band vibes, her voice is a little Joan Osborne, a little Etta James, and a little Dusty Springfield. Rounding out X-Statix is Joel Slazyk on bass (who happened to have color-coordinated shirts and guitar), Bob Granfield on vocals and percussion, and Rick Militello on vocals/bass.
Bourbon? Nope, not yet. Three Chords was setting up a table right near the VIP entrance, however, and I was on watch now.
Ok, this is where I admit some fault. Coming into this festival, I searched on the world wide web for all these acts. I knew some of them and had heard of a couple of othersâall with great feedback. Patti Parks was a new name for me so I looked her up as I did everyone else. I made a decision beforehand that this was going be my rest time as I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the set as much as the others, get some pizza and beverage and just sit back and enjoy the show. Patti, I am sorry I doubted you at all as I couldn’t have been more wrong on this. Patti and her ensemble were incredible as they rocked the stage with a brass section, bass, percussion, and her own vocals. For me, this set was mind-blowing, to say the least. Go give Patti Parks a listen and see for yourself why she is a member of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame.
Ray Barry, the name behind Barry Entertainment, is the event organizer/promotor. Not only does he set up this superb event in downtown Buffalo, NY, he is also a scheduled performer and he brought the troupe out to perform the music of The Band. Like every other act on this stage doing covers, these guys put their own style to some Americana classics without hindering the effects of the song. Ending with a staple, The Weight, and Ray Barry and Friends had a large group of VIP patrons dancing stage front for the entire 40-minute set.
Tommy Z takes the stage at 545, with bourbon pouring at 545. Tommy Z has a rich history with blues, starting out when he backed up Pinetop Perkins and worked with many of the biggest names including Buddy Guy, Jimmy Vaughn, and Robert Cray. On top of his illustrious recording career, which has included weekly shows on Buffalo-based blues radio stations, Tommy has managed to do shows for US troops around the globe, sometimes in tumultuous areas, since 2003.
It’s bourbon time. While I am not a bourbon snob, I enjoy a few things in life including a nice sipping drink. Three Chord was offering up 2 varieties to sample: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, aged in pinot noir barrels as well as Amplified Rye. I had to sample both and damn were they tasty. While I enjoyed the Rye at 95 proof, the Kentucky straight was a little smoother and definitely had me looking for a bottle to take home. Again, I am not a bourbon snob or reviewer, I simply enjoy a nice pour with some solid music in the background.
Moving back to the music, Miller and the Other Sinners took the stage for their set. Buffalo-based and well-known around Western NY and the Finger Lakes, Miller (who also is involved with Three Chord Bourbon) and his Sinners came out firing on all cylinders with the funk and soul sound they have been producing since 2015. Over the years Miller has played with great names such as Shamekia Copeland, Susan Tedeschi, and Joe Bonamassa. 730 is the time I have been looking forward to because Selwyn Birchwood jumps on stages Just as I did for all the other acts, I looked into this young man. It didn’t much for me to get hooked. A little Jimi Hendrix, a dash of Prince, and Some Buddy Guy, that is Selwyn Birchwood, who burst onto the scene in 2014.
A song I took to immediately was “Living in a Burning House.” Deep lyrics and smooth vocals make this a perfect song to listen to while sipping Three Chord bourbon. When he played this song in Buffalo, the crowd was ready for it and you could see many of them singing along. Another artist new to me, for now, it was clear that Birchwood made his presence known around Buffalo as he rocked the crowd for a little over an hour.
Rounding out the festival was Colin James. From Saskatchewan, Canada, James brought 30 years of music, 8 Juno awards, and nearly 30 Maple Blues awards to Buffalo Riverworks. Who knew this could happen to a guy whose first performance was opening up for Stevie Ray Vaughn with only a few hours notice? While the venue and crowd may not be what James is used to, he had the entire crowd into the music. For some, it was just sitting there bopping their head to the beat or tapping their toes, while others were in full dance party mode. With over 20 albums of music to select from, James played for nearly 90 minutes and seemed to love every second of it. Colin James is on tour, with shows coming up in Ontario.
For nine hours, Buffalo Riverworks was rocking some blues, roots, and Americana sounds. Arts and crafts, the aforementioned bourbon, as well as rustic surroundings outside all were perfect compliments of each other and Barry Entertainment put together a great day of family fun in Downtown Buffalo.
Henry’s Summer KitchenHenry’s Summer KitchenHenry’s Summer KitchenHenry’s Summer KitchenHenry’s Summer KitchenTonemahThe Growlers Blues BandThe X-StatixPatti Parks BandRay Barry and FriendsTommy ZMiller and the Other SinnersSelwyn BirchwoodColin James
As the legend of Lark Hall continues to grow, the Ryan Montbleau performance from April 20 will be one of the ones they talk about for years to come. An instant classic that showcased everything from rock and blues to funk and folk, eloquent and meaningful storytelling, full band collaborations, over the top guitar solos and even a bit of Marty McFly-type showmanship. Along with a well-received set by the sultry and dynamic female folk singer Kat Wright that included a cover of Bob Marley’s classic song “Burnin’ and Lootin’, being in the Albany room on this night felt like being home for the holidaze.
Fans “packed” into Lark Hall to celebrate 4/20 with Ryan Montbleau
Until recently though, home for Ryan Montbleau has been on the road. After spending more than two decades on tour living out of a suitcase, the critically acclaimed singer/songwriter has finally settled down and purchased property in Burlington, Vermont. Only a short drive to the Albany area, Montbleau has become a regular fixture in the Capital Region music scene. Often playing in Saratoga Springs at venues like Caffe Lena and Putnum Place, over the years Montbleau has shared the stage with everyone from the Tedeski Trucks Band and Mavis Staples, to the Wood Brother and Goose. This night, however, would be his Lark Hall debut.
Here comes the Pain: Ryan Montbleau had the crowd feeling fine while performing “Just Enough Pain”on 4/20
Montbleau, who was dressed in a Todd Snider T-shirt and would perform the majority of the show with a spliff safely tucked behind his ear, addressed the doobious date by saying, “I feel like 4:20 doesn’t mean as much as it used to. These days you can just go down the street and get some gummies and a couple pre-rolls. How rebellious is that?” Opening up with “Just Enough Pain” and passionately singing as if it were the encore, Ryan and the band were dialed in from the start. Repeating the chorus of “I guess I’m fine” until the whole room was saying it too, it was the kind of cathartic start to a show that rarely comes around. The kind that let you know that no matter what other 4/20 shenanigans were happening simultaneously elsewhere, you were exactly where you needed to be and you had picked wisely.
When I Misbehave: Ryan Montbleau rolled into Lark Hall for the first time on 4/20/2023
Playing most of his recently released studio album, 2023’s Wood, Fire, Water, and Air, Ryan Montbleau’s band currently consists of Ex-Turkuaz/current Cool Cool Cool members Craig Brodhead on guitar and Michelangelo Carubba on drums, Paul Philippone from West End Blend on keys, and Michael Friedman from The Slip on bass. Montbleau has gone on record calling them his best band yet, and after working their way through songs like “Ankles,” and fan favorite “75 and Sunny” it’s easy to why. The band would have fans chanting along again on “Yeah Man,” before ripping into the aptly appropriate 4/20 rocker “Sweet, Nice ‘n’ High.” Brodhead’s incredible tone control sounded gorgeous in this room and on this song in particular. You can check out fan shot video it below:
Sweet: Watch fan shot footage of “Sweet, Nice ‘n’ High” from Lark Hall on 4/20
Cooling things off a bit, a stripped down and somber rendition of “Never Gonna Be” gave the audience some time to reflect, while “Long for You Again” explored similar sentiments, but with a notably more up-tempo swing. Ryan would abort the intro of “Til the End of Our Days,” laughing to himself that it sounded too much like the theme song from the 1993 film Free Willy. Then in a moment of priceless crowd participation, fans of the Michael Jackson song briefly started singing the chorus of “Will You Be There.” Things got more serious when Montbleau dusted off a pair of deep-thinkers from 2017’s I was Just Leaving, “Time and Time Again” and the album’s title track.
With a little Help From Friends: The Kat Wright Band performing with Ryan Montbleau on 4/20/23
Then for a special treat, members of the Kat Wright Band would join in on the festivities, lending backing vocals on “When I Misbehave” and on one of the more popular songs of the night, “Bright Side.” Earlier in the evening, Wright had let her feelings about the venue be known, commenting how special this room felt to her. Saying, “Long live Lark Hall. Such a beautiful venue. It feels like slipping into a dream. Back to a time when people cared about storytelling and being together and listening to the music and it’s just so beautiful. I hope it stays open forever.” The heartfelt sentiment was collectively felt by all. The energy level would raise even higher when the band bounced back with a full-on funk attack during “Dead Set,” where chairmen Paul Philippone shinned particularly bright. “Songbird” took on strong Rastafarian vibes, only to be outdone by the most bombastic cover choice of the night in Shaggy’s “It Wasn’t Me.”
This Must Be the Place: The Lark Hall kids loved it when Montbleau channeled his inner Marty McFly on 4/20/23
Putting down his guitar and working both sides of the stage while rapping the lyrics to the turn-of-the-century mega hit, the charismatic Montbleau drove the ladies in the crowd absolutely wild here. Well, “Seeing is believing so you better change your specs.” That’s what fans were thinking during the follow-up cover choice of Talking Heads “This Must Be the Place” when both Montbleau and Brodhead were having so much fun together, they briefly ended up playing guitars while laying on their backs ala Marty McFly in Back to the Future. Considering Lark Hall’s storied Chuck Berry history, it somehow seemed to make sense.
Floored: Guitarist Craig Brodhead laid down a smoking solo during “Naïve Melody” at Lark Hall on 4/20/23
After finding their feet again, the band would go into the song “Affected,” which Montbleau helped write with Maddy O’neal and appears on the 2022 album Ricochet. The boogie down continued with a rippin’ version of “Honeymoon Eyes” and then more full audience participation on “I Can’t Wait,” which brought the main portion of the show to a close and left the packed house hollering for more.
Watch fan shot footage of Ryan Montbleau’s final song at Lark Hall on 4/20
After soaking in the cheers for a few moments, the band would emerge from the curtains with one more heartfelt ballad from Wood, Fire, Water, and Air called “Outside Looking In.” Finally, they would send the audience home on a high note with a smoking rendition of “Pacing Like Prince.”
Just an incredible, fun, and well-rounded performance from start to finish. Complete with a carefully crafted, career spanning setlist, an absolutely badass backing band, guest sit-ins, and his innate ability to develop a wonderfully organic rapport with his audience, it would seem that Ryan Montbleau made the most of his Lark Hall 4:20 debut and may have found a new home away from home in the process. Carving his name into the venue’s growing legend, it genuinely feels like something special happens every time you step foot into Albany’s newest concert spot. If you’re looking for great music, great vibes and a great time, this must be the place indeed-e.
Fans “packed” into Lark Hall on 4/20
Ryan Montbleau | 4/20/2023 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Just Enough Pain, Ankles, Yeah Man, Sweet, Sweet, Nice ‘n’ High, After Dark, 76 & Sunny, Never Gonna Be, Long For You Again, ‘Til The End of Our Days, Time and Again, I Was Just Leaving, When I Misbehave, Brightside, Dead Set, Songbird, It Wasn’t Me*, This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody) **, Affected, Honeymoon Eyes, I Can’t Wait
Encore: Outside Looking In, Pacing Like Prince
*Shaggy cover
**Talking Heads cover
Kat Wright | 4/20/2023 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Can’t Explain, Problems, Lovers & Tides/All About You, Try, Take Me With You, Rhonda, Burnin’ and Lootin’, I’ve Been Down
