NYS Music 2023

Category: Metal/Hard Rock/Punk

  • GWAR Performs at NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Series, Upcoming Shows in NY

    With over-the-top costumes, a bleeding drum set, and some drawn-on abs, the heavy metal band GWAR performed for the National Public Radio’s (NPR) Tiny Desk Concert video series. The band is also to play in Syracuse on Aug. 1 as a part of “The Psychotherapy Sessions” tour.

    GWAR was originally founded in 1984, but has featured a rotating cast of musicians since then. The band orbits around their own mythos as barbaric interstellar warriors, each member wearing a costume and taking on a character. Their shows are known for violent and sexual humor, complete with displays of graphic violence with fake bodily fluids.

    Their performance at NPR and their upcoming tour coincide with the release of The New Dark Ages, the band’s latest album. GWAR’s Tiny Desk Concert featured “Sex Cow,” “I’ll Be Your Monster,” “Phantom Limb,” and “Ratcatcher,” the latter of which being a part of The New Dark Ages.

    We learned a lot from those goody-goodys at NPR. For instance, how to say…”Your support right now is vital to GWAR’s ability to bring you quality cultural and educational programming that leaves you soaked in bodily fluids and shame.” NPR can give you coffee cups and satin totes, but we can give your souls eternal torment, so give to GWAR today.

    Blothar the Beserker

    The upcoming shows for 2023 have been broken down into normal tour dates, headlining shows, and festival appearances. GWAR will be playing aside either Nonpoint, Crobot, or 200 Stab Wounds for their headlining shows, dependent on location. The band will make two stops in NYS, one in Wantagh on July 28, and the other in Syracuse on Aug. 1.

    “The Psychotherapy Sessions” Tour

    July 28 – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater – Wantagh, NY

    July 29 – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion – Camden, NJ

    July 30 – Xfinity Center – Mansfield, MA

    Aug. 1 – St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview – Syracuse, NY

    Aug. 2 – The Pavilion at Star Lake – Burgettstown, PA

    Aug. 4 – Blossom Music Center – Cuyahoga Falls, OH

    Aug. 5 – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater – Tinley Park, IL

    Aug. 6 – Pine Knob Music Theater – Clarkston, MI

    Aug. 8 – Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center – Noblesville, IN

    Aug. 9 – Peoria Civic Center – Peoria, IL

    Aug. 10 – Azura Amphitheater – Bonner Springs, KS

    Aug. 12 – Dos Equis Pavilion – Dallas, TX

    Aug. 13 – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion – The Woodlands, TX

    Aug. 15 – Isleta Amphitheater – Albuquerque, NM

    Aug. 16 – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheater – Phoenix, AZ

    Aug. 17 – FivePoint Amphitheater – Irvine, CA

    Aug. 19 – Concord Pavilion – Concord, CA

    Aug. 20 – Grand Theater at the Grand Sierra Resort – Reno, NV

    Aug. 22 – White River Amphitheater – Auburn, WA

    Aug. 23 – RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater – Ridgefield, WA

    Aug. 25 – USANA Amphitheater – Salt Lake City, UT

    Aug. 26 – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater – Englewood, CO

    Headlining Dates

    Aug. 21 – Knitting Factory with Nonpoint – Boise, ID

    Aug. 27 – Bourbon Theatre with Crobot – Lincoln, NE

    Aug. 28 – First Avenue with Crobot and 200 Stab Wounds – Minneapolis, MN

    Aug. 29 – Wooly’s with Crobot and 200 Stab Wounds – Des Moines, IA

    Aug. 30 – The Pageant with Crobot and 200 Stab Wounds – St. Louis, MO

    Sept. 1 – Vibes Event Center with Crobot and 200 Stab Wounds – San Antonio, TX

    GWAR Festival Appearances

    Sept. 2 – Rocklahoma – Pryor, OK

    Sept. 3 – Muddy Roots Festival – Cookeville, TN

    Oct. 26 & 27 – The Fest – Gainsville, FL

    For more on ticket information and on GWAR, check out their website.

  • Resonating Energies: Shinedown’s Electrifying Concert at Fallsview Casino

    On Sunday July 23rd, Fallsview Casino’s OLG Stage in Niagara Falls marked an unforgettable night for the attendees. Shinedown delivered a powerful and electrifying performance to conclude their recent tour supporting their latest album, Planet Zero. Preceding the headlining act, the crowd was treated to an impressive opening set by Sleep Theory, hailing from Memphis TN, who energized the audience with their raw and captivating sound.

    As the lights dimmed and the anticipation reached its peak, Shinedown took the stage, igniting the atmosphere with their opening track, “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom).” Lead vocalist Brent Smith’s commanding presence held the audience in thrall from the very beginning, setting the tone for an evening filled with rock anthems and heartfelt ballads. Many fans were excited to see the use of pyro and flash bangs inside. It wasn’t as big as an outdoor show, but was still spectacular.

    The band’s well-curated setlist of 19 songs showcased their musical versatility, incorporating both fan-favorite classics and fresh tracks from their latest album. Hits like “Second Chance” and “Sound of Madness” had the crowd singing along passionately, while newer releases like “Devil” and the album’s title track, “Planet Zero,” demonstrated the band’s continued evolution and growth.

    A standout moment of the night was the acoustic rendition of Jimmy Eat World’s hit, “The Middle.” The stripped-down performance showcased Smith’s soulful vocals and resonated deeply with the audience, creating an intimate and emotional connection.

    Throughout the concert, Shinedown engaged with their fans, with Smith delivering heartfelt speeches that emphasized themes of resilience, unity, and hope. This personal touch forged a strong bond between the band and their dedicated supporters, making the event feel like a shared and special experience.

    As the night approached its climax, the band closed with an explosive performance of “Cut the Cord,” leaving the crowd in a state of euphoria. The overwhelming energy and passion on display demonstrated why Shinedown has remained a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene.

    In the aftermath of the concert, attendees were left with lasting memories of an exceptional night of music and showmanship. Shinedown’s ability to connect with their audience, coupled with the stellar opening act by Sleep Theory, solidified the event as a remarkable and unforgettable experience. As the lights came up and the cheers subsided, it was evident that Shinedown’s music and live performances will continue to resonate with fans for years to come. They are not stopping anytime soon.

    Sleep Theory

    Shinedown

    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller

  • Kyle Smith and Pat Tato to Perform at Funk n Waffles

    Funk n Waffles, a one-of-a-kind venue in Syracuse, will be hosting Kyle Smith and Pat Tato on August 11th as a stop on the “Grill Em All Tour.”

    The Food Network featured venue truly embodies its name – not only do they serve delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, desert, and of course, waffles, but they truly bring the “funk” with live music every night, and a full bar. Performances by Kyle Smith and Pat Tato ensure a night of ambitious music, delicious food, and talent that you won’t want to miss.

    Kyle Smith, a singer-songwriter from Ventura, California, is best known for his unique blend of “Cali-Reggae,” influenced by Ska, Hip-Hop, and Punk-Rock, a combination that is simultaneously catchy, raw, and truthful. Kyle’s music often pays tribute to his troubled youth and addiction. His self-titled debut EP offers a glimpse into the life he endured, with songs like “Dope Fiend” and “Jaded” referencing his troubled past, all while keeping an uplifting spirit and tempo. Despite his roots, Kyle’s goal in life is to give hope and spread positivity through his music. His raw, natural talent is effortless, and his personality immediately warms up the room, inviting those around into his world.

    Pat Tato, known for his unique, thought-provoking sound, was not always a solo artist. In 2013, the band Baked Potatoes could be found playing nearly every house party, skate shop, and dive bar at SUNY Oneonta. In the years following, Pat and the rest of the Baked Potatoes graduated college and recorded their first full length album, ‘Loaded’ (2016) to much critical acclaim. Following their graduation and album release, the band found themselves taking a hiatus as the original members moved to Ohio, Arizona, Tennessee, and Alaska. Aaron and Pat decided to live on a bus, continuing to play music and drive up and down the east coast, busking on the street. Eventually, Pat shifted focus and started releasing music as Pat Tato. The sound is different, ambitious, lyrical, and thought provoking.

    Since then, Pat Tato has a new band and has started to emerge on the Festival Circuit as an early crowd favorite. He combines set lists of old Baked Potatoes songs with New Pat Tato songs, and continues to evolve and mature into the new sound that is ‘Pat Tato & the Baked Potatoes.’

    To see Kyle Smith and Pat Tato at Funk n Waffles, get tickets here.

  • Ronnie James Dio Documentary “DIO: Dreamers Never Die” Set To Release On DVD

    Mercury Studios recently announced that “DIO: Dreamers Never Die”, the first-ever career documentary of legendary rock artist Ronnie James Dio, will be released on DVD and Blu-Ray on September 29. There will also be a special Deluxe Edition of the film which will include exclusive merchandise. All of the upcoming versions of the documentary will feature 20 minutes worth of deleted and extended scenes.

    The South by Southwest film festival originally debuted “DIO: Dreamers Never Die” in 2022. The film garnered praise from critics and fans alike, eventually making its way to theaters. Digitally, the documentary can be found on SHOWTIME.

    Ronnie James Dio, was born in New Hampshire but grew up in Cortland, New York. At the age of 5, he began playing the trumpet. Despite piecing together a somewhat successful career on trumpet and bass, Dio became enthralled with heavy rock as he grew up.

    The artist would help to create the band Elf in 1967. While the group’s music was not as hard or heavy as the kind that Dio would eventually be known for, Elf provided the New Yorker a space to experiment and practice his vocals. It was his unique and passionate singing that eventually landed Dio a spot with Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow (Rainbow). 

    “DIO: Dreamers Never Die” chronicles Dio’s transition from a budding instrumentalist into a full fledged rock star with Rainbow.  The vocalist helped to pen and arrange many of the band’s most noteworthy songs. Some of Rainbow’s biggest hits came with Dio, including standout tracks “The Temple Of The King” and “Man On The Silver Mountain”. 

    After leaving Rainbow in 1979, Dio would replace Ozzy Osbourne in Black Sabbath. While the artist would reach mainstream notoriety with the group, he never truly felt at home with the outfit. Dio left Black Sabbath just three years later. The vocalist would go on to create his own band aptly named “Dio” where he released the critically acclaimed album Holy Diver. 

    The documentary features unseen photos and footage from Dio’s tremendous career. “DIO: Dreamers Never Die” offers an intimate look into the musician’s relationship with manager and wife Wendy Dio, bandmates Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler, and many more. 

    Dio’s estate fully authorized and approved the film. Don Argott and Demian Fenton directed the project. Wendy Dio also executive produced “DIO: Dreamers Never Die.”

    Ronnie James Dio and Wendy Dio

    I wanted this documentary to be authentic, for the fans to see the roller coaster ride that was Ronnie’s life—the good times, the bad times and everything in between, especially including events that even the most diehard fans would not have known about. It’s all in there, right up to the very end

    Wendy Dio

    Powered by Universal Music Group, Mercury Studios remains editorially independent. The studio has actively participated in creating several high-profile documentaries, including “If These Walls Could Sing,” “Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop,” and “Shania Twain: Not Just A Girl.”

    Click here for more details and pre-order information. 

  • In Focus: Sweet at Alive at 5

    On Thursday, July 13th, Sweet raced against the storm to deliver for Albany’s fifth installment of Alive at 5.

    Sly Fox at Alive at 5 – Photo by Jarron Childs

    Sly Fox and the Hustlers opened classic rock night under I-787. They formed in Albany in 2010 after Sly’s long time friend decided to embark on a solo career. He enlisted the help of guitarist, Zak Young and drummer, Sean Ireland to form the band. They created a classic blues rock and roll sound which has so far produced two albums. Sly Fox and the Hustlers are working on releasing their third album sometime this year.

    Luke McNamee at Alive at 5 – Photo by Jarron Childs

    Sly Fox and the Hustlers played about an hour set with the addition of three members. Saxophonist, Luke McNamee, Brian Mangini on the keyboard and John Dievendorf on the bass took the stage to with Sly Fox to modest crowd of Albany’s most loyal rock and rollers. The mood was a bit more mellow as their music leaned more towards a classic blues sound than a typically head banging rock n’ roll beat. Many of the songs were centered more around love, which may have helped to audience understand Sly more. Most of crowd saved their energy by resting in their lawn chairs in anticipation for Sweet. They were left off with a warm farewell before the night was revved up.

    Steve Priest at Alive at 5 – Photo by Jarron Childs

    Sweet was a band in the 70s who gained popularity in the UK with from their single “Blockbuster!” They had many songs reach the charts in both the UK and England before they disbanded in 1981. Most of the founding members died between 1997-2020, but they did not stop the legacy from continuing. Guitarist Andy Scott, has formed his own version of Sweet that continues to play shows today and even make music. His version of Sweet, however, was not the version that was in Albany.

    Bassist Steve Priest came out of retirement in 2007 and formed his own version of Sweet. This version shares similarities with Scott’s version, but are not actively making new music. They still are keeping the legacy alive by playing some of Sweet’s best songs at their shows. Their show in Albany was no show for the week hearted as they really gave it their all with the short window they had.

    Jim Burkard at Alive at 5 – Photo by Jarron Childs

    The show was moved to Albany’s rain location under I-787, but a torrential storm was so strong the highway could not protect everyone. Nonetheless, the show still went on with a few changes to the set.

    Coming out strong with hits like “Teenage Rampage” and “Set Me Free”, there was not one person still sitting in their seat for the show. Lead singer, Patrick Stone, really meshed with the crowd well by encouraging participation from all. Stone stuck his mic over the crowd, stood on the front speakers, and even ran through the crowd twice to keep everyone energized.

    Patrick Stone singing with fan at Alive at 5 – Photo by Jarron Childs

    Even though they could not complete their whole set, they were able to get off their two most notable songs before they departed early. “Fox on the Run”, which regained popularity after being on the The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack, still hit the same as it probably did back in 1974. Crowd members needed very little encouragement to sing it word-for-word with Sweet. The set ended early with “Ballroom Blitz,” which still left the energy on high just before the downpour.

    Steve Priest’s Sweet continues to tour with their next stop being Louisville Kentucky on August 25th.

    Sly Fox and The Hustlers Setlist: Back in Funk, Rough Patch of Road, Giving Dream, Revolution 2012, Look At You, Let Me Down Easy, Smooth, Home By Morning, Forever Young, Find Someone, S.U.N.Y. Girl, American Gypsy, Sympathy

    Sweet Setlist: Action, Teenage Rampage, Set Me Free, Love Is Like Oxygen, Sweet F.A., No You Don’t, Done Me Wrong, Willie/Block/Wig, AC/DC, Fox on the Run, Ballroom Blitz

  • Metal Icons MESHUGGAH To Perform In NY and NJ

    The Swedish band, MESHUGGAH will be returning to North America for a three-week long tour this Fall. The metal icons will make a stop at the Long Island stage The Paramount on December 8th and The Wellmont Theater of New Jersey on December 10th.

    The tour will commence on November 21st in San Diego, California, leading the metal-heads throughout the states making stops in Canada along the way. These performances mark the first time the band has played on Canadian soil in over five years.

    The three-week trek follows the release of MESHUGGAH’s full-length ninth studio album, Immutable dropped earlier this year. Support throughout the tour will be provided by the Swedish heavy metal band In Flames along with Whitechapel, the American death core band from Tennessee. Additionally, during the final performance in Laval, Quebec, the three acts will be joined by Voivod.

    Fans are now able to purchase tickets for the metal packed shows through Citi and Artist. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general sales beginning on July 14th at livenation.com.

    MESHUGGAH 2023 North American Tour

    11/21/2023 SOMA – San Diego, CA

    11/22/2023 Hard Rock Live Sacramento – Wheatland, CA

    11/24/2023 Paramount Theatre – Seattle, WA

    11/25/2023 Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre – Vancouver, BC

    11/27/2023 Midway Music Hall – Edmonton, AB

    11/28/2023 Grey Eagle Event Centre – Calgary, AB

    11/30/2023 Burton Cummings Theatre – Winnipeg, MB

    12/01/2023 The Fillmore Minneapolis presented by Affinity Plus – Minneapolis, MN

    12/02/2023 The Sylvee – Madison, WI

    12/03/2023 GLC Live at 20 Monroe – Grand Rapids, MI

    12/05/2023 The Hard Rock Live Northern Indiana – Gary, IN

    12/06/2023 The Andrew J Brady Music Center – Cincinnati, OH

    12/08/2023 The Paramount – Huntington, NY

    12/09/2023 MGM Music Hall at Fenway – Boston, MA

    12/10/2023 The Wellmont Theater – Montclair, NJ

    12/12/2023 Toyota Oakdale Theater – Wallingford, CT

    12/14/2023 Wind Creek Event Center – Bethlehem, PA

    12/15/2023 HISTORY – Toronto, ON

    12/16/2023 Place Bell – Laval, QC – w/ Voivod

  • Great South Bay Music Festival Returns in 2023 with an Unforgettable Lineup

    The Great South Bay Music Festival 2023, one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer, is set to make a triumphant return this year after facing numerous challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival begins on Thursday, July 20 and runs through Sunday, July 23rd.

    Great South Bay Music Festival 2023

    As Long Islanders emerge from quarantine and yearn for the joy of live music, this family-friendly festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts of all ages. I had the pleasure of speaking with James Faith, the festival’s producer, about the festival’s journey and what attendees can expect this time around on The Long Island Sound Podcast

    The Great South Bay Music Festival, held in the picturesque Patchogue, Long Island, has always been a celebration of local talent alongside renowned artists from various genres. What sets this festival apart is its commitment to creating a family-friendly environment, where attendees of all ages can enjoy music from both local acts and big-name performers across multiple stages.

    James Faith – Producer of the Great South Bay Music Festival

    James Faith, the festival’s producer, emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive atmosphere, stating, “We want to make sure that families can come and enjoy the music together. It’s not just about the headliners; it’s about showcasing the incredible talent from our local community as well.” This unique blend of local and established acts allows for a diverse range of musical styles and ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    Putting the Pandemic in the Past

    Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, Faith described the challenges faced by the festival and its organizers. Despite the uncertainties and setbacks, they remained committed to delivering a memorable experience for attendees. “We had to adapt and overcome numerous obstacles, but we never lost sight of our goal: to bring people together through the power of music,” Faith explained.

    We want to provide a platform for emerging artists to shine alongside the big names. It’s about fostering a sense of community and giving these talented musicians the exposure they deserve.

    James Faith

    Now, as the festival gears up for its 2023 edition, attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup that embodies the festival’s spirit. A few of the local artists have been my guests on The Long Island Sound Podcast, including, Matt Marshak, Kerry Kearney, Lex Grey and Phil Firetog.

    Among the artists set to grace the stages are Phil Lesh and Friends, Gov’t Mule, Dave Mason, Hot Tuna, Dirty Heads, Cassandra House, Kerry Kearney, Gold Finger, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Duane Betts, Bad Fish, Tauk, Neighbor, Miles to Dayton, Lex Grey and the Urban Pioneers, oogee Wa Wa, Clifdiver, Harbour, The Joni Project, Phil Firetog Trio, Shecky and the Twangtones, Adam and the Metal Hawks, Jules Radino, Jack Licitra, and Matt Marshak.

    Great South Bay Music Festival 2023

    The Great South Bay Music Festival goes beyond just the music, offering a range of activities and amenities to enhance the overall experience. Attendees can explore artisan craft vendors, indulge in delicious food from local vendors, and engage in interactive workshops and activities for all ages. From art installations to face painting, there’s something to captivate the entire family.

    Faith encouraged attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant Long Island music scene by exploring the Long Island Music Hall of Fame in Stony Brook. This esteemed institution showcases the island’s rich musical legacy and pays tribute to iconic musicians such as Billy Joel, Eddie Money, Joan Jett, and many more.

    The Great South Bay Music Festival promises to be a thrilling experience for music lovers and a testament to the resilience of the Long Island community. With its four-day duration, family-friendly atmosphere, and a diverse lineup of local and renowned acts, this festival is set to reclaim its place as one of the region’s premier summer events.

    I have my tickets to the Festival! So when you see a white haired guy, who looks like the picture below, make sure you say hello.

    For more information and updates on the Great South Bay Music Festival 2023 including ticket sales and the complete artist lineup, stay tuned to The Long Island Sound Podcast and visit the festival’s official website.

  • Tom Keifer, RATT and Vixen Bring Rock Back to Tag’s Summer Stage

    For those of us who remember the music of the 80’s & 90’s it was a trip down memory lane with an unforgettable night of music at Tags in Big Flats, NY on Saturday, July 8th. That music came in the form 80’s Metal as headliner Tom Keifer the former singer of Cinderella, Stephen Pearcy former front man of the 80’s band Ratt and and the all woman hard rocking Glam metal band Vixon. Throw in amazing weather ironically in the 80’s and you have an amazing night of music. 

    Tom Keifer bringing 80’s metal back to Tags.

    Tom Keifer has come along way since his days of Cinderella and the tough times of dealing with “vocal cord paresis” in the early 90’s. It’s a disease that litterally attacks the vocal cords and forcing Tom to litterally learn to sing from scratch.  Hey brought many of his favorites this night such as “Coming Home”, “Nobody’s Fool”, “Gypsy Road” and “Don’t Know What You Got (til it’s gone).”

    Former Cinderella front man Tom Keifer playing to a great crowd at Tags.

    Tom’s band is called Keiferband and includes Tony Higbee on lead guitar, Bill Mercer bass (both from Nashville, TN), Jarred Pipe on drums from Hendersonville TN, and Kory Myers on keys hailing from Southaven, Mississippi.  Back up singers are Tom’s wife Savana and Tanya Davis, also from Nashville. 

    Before Tom got things going it was Stephen Pearcy bringing back the 80’s in style.

    Stephen Pearcy performing to an excited crowd at Tags.

    Pearcy, the former front man for the 80’s hair band Ratt proved that age is just a number by belting out famous Ratt ballads as good as he did 40 years ago. Ratt favorites “Back for More”, “ Wanted Man” and “Round & Round” we well received by the crowd.

    Stephen Pearcy, former front man for Ratt helped bring 80’s metal back to Tags for the night.

    Starting the night was Vixen with there all female lineup featuring original member Roxy Petrucci on drums, Britt Lighting tearing it up on lead guitar, Lorraine Lewis on lead vocals and recent addition Julia Lage on bass.

    Vixen, whose history goes all the way back to the streets of St. Paul, Minnesota in 1980, has withstood the test of time by being the only female band from the 80’s to sell over a milllion albums, had six #1 videos on MTV and had four songs in Billboards top 100.  The Tags crowd gave them a huge ovation when they finished their show with “Edge of a Broken Heart.”

    Lorraine Lewis of Vixen enjoys an excited crowd at Tags.

    The show was another amazing night celebrating 30 years of music at Tags Summer Sound Stage in Big Flats, located between Corning and Elmira. The next big show on the horizon is Country star Dustin Lynch on August 11. Go to www.tagstickets.com for more info. 

    Vixen’s Julia Lage gets excited for a great crowd at Tags.
    Vixen Drummer Roxy Petrucci playing for an excited crowd at Tags.

  • Volbeat and Halestorm Rock Toronto at Echo Beach

    Toronto’s Echo Beach was set ablaze on Wednesday July 12th as the Danish rockers Volbeat, accompanied by the powerhouse American rock band Halestorm, unleashed a sonic storm upon the fervent crowd. The air was electric with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited the musical extravaganza that awaited them. And boy, did these bands deliver!

    Halestorm last play the area in Hamburg last year. Kicking off the night with an explosive energy, Halestorm took the stage by storm, leaving the audience breathless with their blistering performance. Frontwoman Lzzy Hale commanded the stage like a true rock goddess, her powerful vocals piercing through the night air. With her signature charisma and raw intensity, she effortlessly captured the hearts of every spectator in the venue.

    Halestorm’s guitar-driven anthems reverberated through the amphitheater, igniting an uncontainable fervor among the crowd. Songs like “Love Bites (So Do I)” and “The Steeple” resonated with fans, who eagerly sang along to every word. The band’s seamless synergy and tight musicianship were evident, creating an undeniable chemistry that fueled the entire performance.

    After a brief intermission, the stage transformed into a grandiose spectacle, signaling the arrival of Volbeat. The “Servant Of The Road” tour had kicked off in Toronto, and the band wasted no time in proving why they are considered one of the most dynamic acts in rock music today.

    Frontman Michael Poulsen’s commanding stage presence and distinct baritone vocals took the audience on a wild ride. The band effortlessly transitioned from hard-hitting, foot-stomping rockers like “The Devil’s Bleeding Crown” to more melodic and introspective tunes like “Becoming.” Each song was executed flawlessly, fueling an intense euphoria that pulsed through the veins of every fan.

    Volbeat’s performance was accompanied by a stunning visual display, with mesmerizing light shows and striking backdrops that added an extra layer of grandeur to the concert. The crowd’s collective energy reached its peak during the band’s iconic hit, “Still Counting,” with fans chanting the infectious chorus with unbridled enthusiasm.

    The chemistry between the band members was palpable, as they effortlessly navigated their extensive catalog of rock anthems. From the blistering guitar solos to the thunderous drumming, every musician on that stage showcased their immense talent, leaving the audience in awe.

    The Volbeat and Halestorm show at Echo Beach was an unforgettable experience, leaving no doubt that rock ‘n’ roll is very much alive and thriving. These two bands proved that they are the rightful torchbearers of the genre, infusing it with their unique sound and captivating performances. The Toronto crowd was treated to a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll magic, and everyone left Echo Beach with their hearts pounding and their souls rejuvenated.

    Halestorm

    Volbeat

  • Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival in Lake George Announces Initial Lineup

    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.

    Wild in the Trees lake george

    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.

    Wild in the Trees lake george
    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.

    Wild in the Trees lake george
    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.