Specialists and Space Carnival, two New York-based bands, will perform at Brooklyn Bowl on August 9. The show will also feature funk fusion group ShwizZ. Since 2017, the venue has not hosted Space Carnival, while Specialists are scheduled to make their Brooklyn Bowl debut.
Specialists
Spanning 23,000 sq. ft. Brooklyn Bowl is one of the most unique and dynamic event spaces in New York. Boasting a bowling alley, music venue, conference space, and much more, the Williamsburg location offers something for everyone.
I saw my first show at the Bowl in 2014, when I was just 16… My 16 year old self cannot believe this.
Specialists’ guitarist Billy
Specialists are a Brooklyn outfit that expertly blend together elements of rock, dance, and funk to create a fun and playful sound. The group puts together high energy performances that showcase the band’s extraordinary songwriting and musicianship. Specialists have performed all over NYC, including shows at Brooklyn Made and Wonder Bar. The band’s style and groove is the perfect sonic addition to any summer day.
Space Carnival
Space Carnival is made up of Jeremy Kraus on guitar, Cameron Fitch on keys and vocals, Chris Meier on bass, and Josh West joining on drums. Originally created in 2013, the Oneonta band has amassed a following for its one-of-a-kind mixture of progressive rock, alternative rock, disco, and funk. 2023 has signaled the return of Space Carnival, as the group has plans to stop at festivals across the country as well as release new music.
Click here for tickets and information about the August 9 performances.
Described as a “mini-residency,” Nick Hakim will be playing at Blue Note Jazz Club in NYC for four days in November. Each day will have two shows, an 8:00 p.m. performance and a 10:30 p.m. performance.
Based in New York, Nick Hakim debuted in 2017 with his album Green Twins, music that resisted classic genre categorization. Last year, Hakim released Cometa, his third studio album, which was widely appraised by critics. Hakim’s songs have also made it to video streaming, as Max’s “Insecure” series used his music.
Hakim draws on music that he listened to growing up in Washington, D.C. with his older brother and parents who had emigrated from Peru, a combination of American soul with South American political folk.
Blue Note owns and operates New York’s Blue Note Jazz Club, Sony Hall, and Arthur’s Tavern as well as Washington, D.C.’s The Howard Theatre and several Blue Note Jazz Clubs around the world. Founded in 1981, they are dedicated to showcasing up-and-coming jazz, soul, R&B and funk artists, though jazz remains at its core.
Nick Hakim will be playing Nov. 14, 15, 28, and 29, with two shows each day at 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.. For more information and for tickets, check out the link here.
The show was opened by Dr. Jah and the Love Prophets. For over 30 years, Dr. Jah has been bringing peace, love, and positivity to the Capital Region. With the Love Prophets by his side, they performed for what may have been their second Alive at 5. The vibes were kept peaceful for the most part, but their set ended on a more political note. Guitarist Dave Geoghegan expressed his frustration with the recent decision to strike down Roe v. Wade. They finished the set with a song he said they hadn’t thought about being relevant again in over 30 years.
Dr. Jah was followed up by The Skatalites. Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, the band has a history that dates back to 1964. They were founded on the popular Jamaican genre, “Ska,” and have since grown and incorporated Reggae, Rocksteady, Ska-Jazz, and a few other sub-genres into their sound. Doreen Schaffer is the only original member of the band that still plays with them today. Though she was not there for the performance in Albany, she may make an appearance for the band’s 60th anniversary next year.
Ska music tends to generate a lot of dancing because of its rhythms and horns. There were few lyrics, as the crowd mostly vibed out for an hour and a half. They did bring out a singer to perform a cover of “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley. A group of high schoolers raising funds for a sports trip formed a conga line that helped those who were moving to get up a go. This was probably one of the most mellow Alive at 5’s for the year before things turn up to close out the series.
The Skatalites perform at The Music Room in West Yarmouth, MA on Aug. 12.
Northern Current is back for another year of live music on Labor Day weekend. The annual free festival takes place on Sept. 3 at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake. The celebration gets underway at Noon and runs until 9:30 PM.
Located at the base of Lake Flower, Riverside Park provides a picturesque setting for the event. The festival looks to celebrate the beauty and richness of Saranac Lake and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Northern Current is focused on enriching the cultural and artistic diversity of the town by presenting a diverse set of performing artists. This year’s lineup features offerings of Rock, Blues, R&B, Afrobeat, Americana, Old Time Folk, Jazz, Country, and more.
www.northerncurrentadk.org
Headlining Northern Current is Canadian outfit Bywater Call. The group’s blend of rock, blues, and R&B results in a soulful and powerful sound. Standout vocalist Megan Parnell fits perfectly with the cascade of horns and noisy guitars that usually features in Bywater Call’s music. Together the group has carved out a lane somewhere between Southern Soul and modern blues-rock.
Local bands High on the Hog and Midnight Stargazers will open up the festival. Other New York acts include Afro-funk outfit Kaleta & Super Yamba Band and Americana pairing Richie & Rosie. The festival will also feature Huntress & the Holder of Hands, The Soggy Po Boys, Badenyah Drum & Dance, and DiTrani Brothers.
In addition to live music, Northern Current boasts a designated “kid zone,” merchandise, and local food vendors. The event is scheduled to take place rain or shine. Visit here for details and information about the event.
From never ending winters to erratic springtime temperatures, New York weather can be brutal. For communities across the Empire State, summer is a time to work outside, enjoy wildlife, and of course catch some live music. Residing in the southeastern corner of NY, the picturesque Catskill Mountains provide the perfect setting for local performances and shows.
Catskill Mountains – Taste of Country Music Festival
Warm weather means it’s time for residents in the region to trade in snowboards and skis for folding chairs and picnic blankets. Teeming with countless unique small towns and villages, there’s plenty of live performances to catch in the area. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Catskill summer concert series and performances to see this year.
Greenville Summer Concert Series
The Greenville Summer Concert Series is a free, family-friendly concert series that happens Tuesdays from 6–7:30 PM at Veterans Park in Greenville, New York. The concerts are held at the intersection of Routes 32 and 81. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, pack a picnic, or buy dinner from Church Street Caterers. The kickoff event features the Michael Benedict Quartet and ice cream from Stewart’s Shops of Greenville. Other acts include Lustre Kings, Moonshine Mule, Dusk Til Dawn, and more. The series is sponsored by the Greenville Rotary, among others.
Voted “Best Place for Live Music” in the Best of Greene County Awards, enjoy Music in the Park every Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at Dutchman’s Landing Park on Main Street in Catskill. Concerts are free to the public. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy great live music on the shores of the beautiful Hudson River. If rainy, concerts are moved to the Historic Catskill Point at 1 Main Street. Presented by the Heart of Catskill Association. Photo credit: Keith Collesides.
Here for more details and information | 518-943-0989
June 22 — Guilty Pleasure—pop rock
June 29 — Lustre Kings—rock and roll
July 6 — Back to the Garden—Woodstock tribute
July 13—Lex Grey and The Urban Pioneers—award-winning blues band
July 28—Lex Grey and The Urban Pioneers—blues/rock
Aug. 3—The Lost Cowboys—classic country
Aug.10—Soul Purpose—Motown soul
Aug. 17—In The Dust—country & Western
Aug. 24—Second Chance—local rock heroes
Aug. 31—Dead Beats—Grateful Dead tribute band
Sept. 7—Alexis P Suter—award-winning blues singer
WINDHAM MOUNTAIN RESORT, WINDHAM
Windham Mountain Facebook
Music on the Mountain Series
Music on the Mountain takes place Fridays from 6-8:30 p.m. at Windham Mountain. This free concert series features local artists, cover bands and some of New York City’s favorite performers. Additionally, there are raffles, a BBQ and scenic sky rides during the early portion of the event. No tickets or reservations needed. Outside food, beverages and pets are not allowed. Windham Mountain is located at 19 Resort Drive, Windham, NY.
Here for more details and information | 518-734-4300
July 7—10 Most Wanted —soul/funk/R&B/rock
July 14—Soul Purpose—soul/funk/R&B
July 21—Guilty Pleasure—pop rock
July 28—The Four 26—rock
Aug. 4—Serene Green—bluegrass
Aug. 11—Rollin’Rust—indie/folk
Aug. 18—Dial Up!—1990s songs
Aug. 25—Die Schlauberger—renditions of German favorites
Sept. 1—The Outcrops—blues-infused rock n’ roll
RIVERSIDE PARK, COXSACKIE
Coxsackie Music in the Park Series
Every Sunday from 6-8pm. Concerts are free to the public. Pack a chair or blanket and enjoy riverside entertainment at the spacious Coxsackie Riverside Park, Betke Boulevard, Coxsackie.
Here for more details and information | 518-731-2718
June 25—Lex Grey & the Urban Pioneers—fusion of old-school blues & classic rock
July 2—Donna Tritico Band—mix of blues, R&B and rock
July 9—Nite Train—award-winning rockin’ blues, funk & R&B
July 16—Samantha Jane Band—jazz standards quartet
July 23—Hammerhead Horns—old-timey blues, ragtime and honkytonk
July 30—Playing with Fire—classic rock & roots
Aug. 6—Night Moves—classic rock; country; 50’s thru 90’s
Aug. 13—Silver Chain Band—playing BB King, Muddy Waters & other greats
Aug. 20—Nite Train—award-winning rockin’ blues, funk & R&B
Aug. 27—Lustre Kings with Mark Gamsjager—rockabilly; real roots rock & roll
RIVERFRONT PARK, ATHENS
Athens Performing Arts Corporation 2023 Summer Concert Series
Athens Summer Concert Series takes place every Friday night from 7-9 p.m. at Riverfront Park, 1 Water Street, Athens. Spend a night under the stars and enjoy this free concert series on the banks of the Hudson River.
Here for more details and information | 518-522-9470
July 14—Les Dudek—rock music legend
July 21—Dark Desert Eagles—world premier Eagles tribute
July 28—Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen—Grammy-winning New Orleans funk
Aug. 4—Double Vision-The Foreigner Experience—rock cover band
Aug.11—Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds—soul, rock, dirty funk
Aug. 18—Conehead Buddha—rock, ska, funk, Latin, reggae, jam, hop
The Huntington Arts Council (HAC) is bringing live music to Long Island during the entire month of July with the Huntington Summer Arts Festival. The festival is now in its 48th season and features performances from July 1- 30. Concerts will take place at the Chapin Rainbow Stage in Heckscher Park.
Free to attendees, the Huntington Summer Arts Festival aims to celebrate established acts while also highlighting up-and-coming artists. This year’s celebration features festival regulars Huntington Community Band, who perform each Wednesday of the month. Concertgoers still have the chance to see Huntington favorites North Shore Pops Concert Band.
Red Baraat
This summer’s roster of musicians come from a diverse set of musical backgrounds. Genres like swing jazz, latin, R&B/Soul, rock, and classical are all represented at the festival. In addition to music, the Huntington Summer Arts Festival also includes dance and theatrical performances. The group Sol Y Sombra Spanish Dance Company performed earlier this month. Attendees however will still have the opportunity to catch the L.I. Dance Consortium is set to take the stage on July 23.
Created in 1963, The Huntington Arts Council has been a pillar in the Long Island arts scene. The organization looks to celebrate and nourish the cultural diversity of Long Island through different avenues. HAC is involved with constructing and sponsoring a multitude of activities, programs, and events. The Council maintains that “the arts create a vibrant, energized, and culturally rich environment”.
Sol y Sombra Spanish Dance Co.
Along with the Huntington Summer Arts Festival, HAC has also collaborated with the Folk Music Society of Huntington to bring back the Huntington Folk Festival on July 22. Co-headliners Lucy Kaplansky and Cliff Eberhardt take the stage at 8, with the festival getting underway at 12:30.
Below is the upcoming schedule for the Summer Arts Festival. Sunday performances start at 7:00PM, all others performances start at 8:00PM, unless noted. Here for a full list of the lineup and more details about the festival.
Remaining Schedule
Wednesday, July 19 – Huntington Community Band, “Una Celebracion de la Musica Latina”- 7:00PM Jazz Band start time, 8:00 PM Concert Band start time
Thursday, July 20 – North Shore Pops Concert Band– Northport Community Band- 8:30PM NPT Park
Friday, July 21 – Huntington Latin Night: Tito Rodriguez Jr. Orchestra- 7:00 PM
Saturday, July 22 – 16th Huntington Folk Festival, Cliff Eberhardt & Lucy Kaplansky- Festival at 12:30PM, headliners at 8:00PM
Sunday, July 23 – L.I. Dance Consortium, “Long Island Dances!- 7:00PM
Wednesday, July 26 – Huntington Community Band,”…and Home Again!”- 8:00PM
Thursday, July 27 – Swing Sessions with Dudley Music & Guests- 7:30PM
Thursday, July 27 – Northport Community Band- 8:30PM NPT Park
Saturday, July 29 – Jazz Loft Big Band, Tom Manuel Conductor, and Nicole Zuraitis- 8:00PM
Sunday, July 30 – Orchestra L.I., David Stewart Wiley, Conductor “In Concert With Nature”- 7:00PM
Delaney Silvernell is known best in New York State for ascending from a Queensbury local to a sensational contestant on NBC’s The Voice. Delaney has made notable strides in her musical career since her debut at age 21.
Playing shows in Los Angeles and New York, Delaney has put her singer-songwriter skills on display, amassing over 350k streams on Spotify alone through her signature blend of pop and R&B. Five years – and many captivating singles – since the voice, Delaney is planning a Northeast Tour at the end of the summer, which will feature her newest EP, Blue Dream.
While Delaney Silvernell is currently an independent artist based in Los Angeles, her journey began many miles away. Originally from the Adirondack region of Queensbury, Delaney knew from a young age that music was her passion.
I’ve been a musician for as long as I can remember, and it doesn’t really feel like a conscious decision I made to become one. Music was really the only thing that fueled me and helped me make sense of the world around me. So, it seemed like my natural path.
Delaney Silvernell
Following her natural trajectory, Delaney moved away from her hometown at 17 to pursue her musical education, studying Songwriting at Berklee College of Music. After graduating in 2017, Delaney was immediately cast as a contestant on season 15 of NBC’s The Voice. Her audition immediately caught the attention of coach Kelly Clarkson. Primarily coached by Kelly Clarkson, Delaney was further coached on screen by music industry greats such as Mariah Carey, Adam Levine, and Thomas Rhett.
After Delaney’s debut at age 21, Delaney has spent the past few years crafting her own space in music. She has played shows in Los Angeles and New York, while independently releasing original music which has been widely successful – amassing over 350k streams on Spotify alone.
Delaney’s music explores her emotions in a real, raw way that captivate audiences with a combination of vulnerable lyrics and powerful vocals. She rides rebelliously on the borders of genres such as R&B/Soul, Pop, Alternative, Blues, and more as she doesn’t believe her artistry can be confined by the boarders of one category. Delaney tries to create music that gives people space to feel deeply and unapologetically, and find peace in those emotions. Such music is often created alongside those who support her musical growth.
I draw inspiration from my life experiences, as well as that of those around me. I find inspiration in sorting out complicated emotions, and truly hope my songs help others do the same. My creative process varies, but my creative team is a pretty consistent group of my friends, which makes it that much more fun.
Blue Dream
Delaney’s most recent EP, Blue Dream, features 4 songs ranging from folk-pop to soulful genres. The project has already been premiered at one of LA’s most famous venues, The Troubadour, and will be performed in multiple cities throughout New York State through Delaney’s upcoming Northeast Tour.
While each song featured in Blue Dream is a work of art in its own right, when asked about her favorite piece, Delaney described her favorite song as one that has truly come full circle.
It’s impossible to pick a favorite, because they all have a special place in my heart. I do love “Wildflower,” though, because it was such a unique process to create it. “Wildflower” originated as a poem I wrote during a sleepless night back in college. A few years later, I stumbled upon the lyrics with a whole new perspective on life, and was able to put them to music and grow the song into what it is today.
Upcoming Projects
Blue Dream is only the first of many ambitious projects Delany’s future holds. Delaney has already begun writing her first full length album, and plans to return to the studio to finish recording it following her tour at the end of the summer. In the meantime, she will be releasing a live album from her recent performance at one of Los Angeles’ most famous venues, The Troubadour.
Delaney’s successful singles and EPs hold promise for equally engaging full length albums. In her continuous journey of exploring complicated emotions, Delaney detailed one of her unreleased songs as one of the most difficult to write in her career.
My most difficult song to write is actually still unreleased. It’s called “Dark Side of the Moon,” and I co-wrote it with my friend and producer, Alisse Laymac. “Dark Side of the Moon,” details my healing process from self-sabotaging the good things in my life. Being honest about that and putting that feeling into words was difficult, but so healing and cathartic.
Tour Dates
Currently, Delaney Silvernell is building a tour around the following dates in New York State:
Additionally, Delaney is securing a date at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC in late August or early September, the date to be announced. She plans to visit other New England-area venues as well. Once all tour dates have been secured, an official press release will be announced.
Delaney’s authentic approach to music, alongside her captivating, soulful lyrics and sound truly make her one of a kind. Be sure to listen to her music on Spotify, and check out her website for more tour updates.
The Sackets Harbor Historical Society recently announced its Concerts on the Waterfront Series. The performances will take place each Sunday from June 25 to September 3 and are free to the public. With its lakeview and beautiful scenery, Sackets Harbor Battlefield will host each of the concerts.
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Sackets Harbor has long been associated with its military roots. The town became the Great Lakes headquarters for the United States during the War of 1812. Rich with history, Sackets Harbor celebrates its 39th season of music with this year’s Concerts on the Waterfront.
Visitors are recommended to bring their own picnic blanket or lawn chairs. More details and information can be found here.
Concerts on the Waterfront Lineup
July 16: Atlas
Atlas is an energetic group that plays everything from 80s hits to legendary soul and rock records. The group has opened for many prominent performers throughout its history, including Michael McDonald, Chaka Khan, Kool and the Gang, Patty LaBelle, and Earth, Wind and Fire.
July 23: The Jess Novak Band
Jess Novak is an immensely talented musician, who sings, writes, plays the fiddle and performs with powerful vocals. Along with Novak, the band is made up of Byron Cage, Anthony Saturno, Jabare McKinstry, and Gavin George. The Syracuse-based band performs pop, rock, and soul.
July 30: Letizia and the Z Band
Letizia and the Z Band are a multidimensional group focusing on 40s classics, 50s rock, Motown, disco, and 90s techno. Letizia’s captivating voice pairs well with horns, a guitar, and alto and tenor saxophones.
Aug 6: Hot Club of Saratoga
Mant of the songs Hot Club of Saratoga performs were written or recorded by legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt. The band reflects his style while also expanding upon the “gypsy jazz” sound.
Aug 13: The Kim Pollard Band
Kim Pollard is a Canadian songwriter and performer who has a diverse set of original music. Together with her band, Pollard infuses blues, jazz, and funk into powerful ballads and spirituals.
Aug 20: 10th Mountain Division Army Band
The 10th Mountain Division Army Band is composed of 41 soldier-musicians, capable of performing in a variety of configurations, styles, and venues.
Aug 27: The Large Flowerheads
The Large Flowerheads channels the energy and sound of the 1960s. Their repertoire includes songs by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Sonny & Cher, Dusty Springfield, The Mamas & The Papas, The Monkees, and many more.
Sept 3: Maria DeSantis Orchestra
This legendary band features vocalists Keith Condon, Gary Branch, Michael Ranalli, and Maria DeSantis. The group is known for its signature big band sound which has been refined and perfected throughout the groups 70 year legacy.
The initial lineup for the 2023 Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival in Lake George has been announced by Mirth Films.
Taking place October 7-8 at the Lake George Skate Plaza, this year’s lineup is set to feature Joe Mansman and The Midnight Revival Band, FUNGKSHUI, Candy Ambulance, Victory Soul Orchestra, Hilltop, Shu, Fine Grain, The Skunches and many more. The multi-talented Connor Dunn will also be hanging out for the weekend as the Artist at Large.
The first ever Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival took place October 1-2, 2022 hosting local acts and also included five different skateboarding events. On the grounds of the festival you can find some of the area’s best food and craft beer along with over 20 craft vendors located at the space. Wild in the Trees pays homage to efforts made in 2008 to raise money to build the Lake George Skate Plaza while embracing all the incredible musical talent regionally and beyond.
photo by Frank Cavone
Back in 2008, local skateboarders in Lake George, NY brought to the towns attention about the need to have a skate park. Through various town board meetings and the creation of a skateboarding committee put together by skaters, family members and community leaders, it was time to raise money to make the dream come true.
Throughout the early 2010’s, local skateboarders held various fundraisers over the years including spaghetti dinners, coin drops, benefit concerts and much more. Between all the efforts locally along with a few grants, the skateboarders were able to raise nearly $100,000. By 2014, the park was designed with oversight from the local skaters. In 2015, ground was broken at the newly created Charles R. Wood Park and the dream was realized. The Lake George Skate Plaza attracts skateboarders from all across the Northeast and beyond each year giving kids a safe place to skateboard without getting in trouble.
photo by Frank Cavone
Wild in the Trees will also feature two days of skateboarding contests including Best Trick, Spot-Based Jam, Game of Skate, High Ollie and much more. Skaters will have the chance of winning prizes from Seasons Skateshop and Corners Skateshop.
If you thought Reubens were good, just wait until this year’s Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival!
Frank Cavone, owner of Mirth Films stated
The headliner to this year’s Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival will be announced on August 15th. This year will also feature an official after party with Two Planets Away at The Lagoon in the heart of Lake George on October 7th.
Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival 2023 is made possible by sponsors, including Lake George Steamboat Company, Seasons Skateshop, Ginter Electric Uncommon Grounds, S.F. Janitorial, Law Office of Paul Ryan, Altered Apparel, Radio Radio X and Corners Skateshop.
Weekend and single-day passes are available now at Mirth-Films.com/WildintheTrees. 50 percent of all ticket sales will go directly to the Ronald McDonald House of the Capital Region.
This Saturday, July 15, the second annual Bronx Summer Jam will be held at Bronx Park East – Oscar Comras Memorial Mall. Catch live music from local Bronx musicians for free from 12-6 pm.
July Quinn, WIN, and Kony Brooks return to the festival alongside a number of local artists. Drew Torres, The Phoenix Within, Wastewood, Balcony Talk, Richard Pigkaso, and Ki Storii will perform on the Kings Stage. Audience members can enjoy an array of genres, ranging from rap and indie rock to hip hop and reggae.
While artists from the Kings Stage take breaks after their thirty minute sets, the music continues on the Sirens Stage. Audiences will hear Jynn, DJ Mike, and F1rst Class perform.
The festival is produced by Sirens & Kings, a co-production company made of two Bronx music collectives, Sounds & Sirens and The Fox & King. Their goal is to showcase the often overshadowed music scene of the Bronx.
Performer at last year’s Bronx Summer Jam. Photo courtesy of Sirens & Kings.
“Everyone always focuses on Brooklyn, or Queens, or Manhattan for New York City’s music scene,” DJ Mike Nickerson, Founder of Sounds & Sirens, said. “There’s a thriving scene in the Bronx. We hope to be able to showcase it, have it grow, and support everybody in it.”
DJ Mike hopes the Bronx’s music scene will be heard by all, allowing a music community to grow, just like the one from his teenage years. During their teenage years, DJ Mike and Co-Owner and Founder of The Fox and King, Fernando Michael, were part of the Bronx’s The Underground community. The Underground was a prominent music scene in the late 2000s and early 2010s before its decline.
“Going to Bronx Underground shows when I was younger shaped the person I turned into,” DJ Mike said. “When you’re in high school or middle school, you may not like things that other people like. You’re not cool or popular, because you like rock, hip hop, or classical jazz. But coming together in a music community, like what we experienced growing up, helps foster a community that tells you that you’re not alone – that you have a group of people you can identify with and can party with.”
In 2018, The Fox & King started a reemergence of The Underground. They brought back live music shows to the First Lutheran Church in the Bronx. The pandemic, however, killed any efforts of a rejuvenation of this music community. After a lull in live shows, they hope the Bronx Summer Jam will reignite the drive to rebuild this music community.
At last year’s Bronx Summer Jam, sparks of their dream were seen. The first Bronx Summer Jam started off slow, but as the festival continued, its audience grew.
Performers and organizers from last year’s Bronx Summer Jam. Photo courtesy of Sirens & Kings.
“Slowly the public, the regular folks that go to the park, were showing up to the event, without knowing it was there,” said Christopher Vasquez, Co-Owner and Public Relations Manager of The Fox & King. “It became a natural audience.”
Fernando Michael referenced Field of Dreams. “If you build it, they will come.” Not only does this refer to the audience but to the musical artists as well. Fernando said, “We have musical artists reaching out to us in mass, because what we do is so prominent to the borough.”
They will come, even in the rain. The original date of the Bronx Summer Jam was this past June 24. It had to be rescheduled due to potential thunderstorms. Instead of doing nothing, some of the musicians got together and performed at Legendary Bar and Grill in the Bronx. They proved this musical community is back.
Christopher Vasquez notes how essential it is to have this musical community back. “Without someone to tell the story of the people in a community, it’s detrimental. You need the voice. You need the storytellers. The storytellers that are on a mic, the writers that write in a book or a journal – music does all these things. It brings people together.”
To be part of this music community and to check out the vast array of performers, head to the second annual Bronx Summer Jam this Saturday, July 15, from 12-6 pm at Bronx Park East – Oscar Comras Memorial Mall.
