Indie-pop band See Plus released their exciting new single, “Waiting For You” in February. The title is fitting, because fans, as the lyrics describe, have been “patiently waiting,” for the band’s new music. The song comes nearly a year since the release of their last single, “The Sun.”
See Plus members, from left to right: Alex Fiume, Miles Dellaha, Jake Linsalata, and Claire Guillermo. Credit: Instagram
It was definitely worth the wait, and See Plus don’t disappoint with their latest track. Not only does “Waiting For You” encompass everything the band stands for, but it also lasts long enough for fans to enjoy. At four and a half minutes, the band’s newest single takes fans on a journey from the beginning, middle, to end. Of course, that journey is a subjective one. Whether you’re waiting for the return of a significant other, close friend, or family member, most fans will be able to relate to this track.
Originating in New Jersey, See Plus consists of Miles Dellaha, Jake Linsalata, Claire Guillermo, and Alex Fiume. The group started out playing in a basement, beating the odds of the “garage band cliche” and slowly achieved mainstream success. Their main inspirations are the Arctic Monkeys, Jack White, and Weezer, by whom they learned to play songs. They released their first digital album, Pool of Tar, in Dec. 2018, a tale of guilt and a failed relationship. The and is currently preparing to release an EP, Better in Person.
“Waiting For You” is now available for download. Additionally, See Plus will be performing in New York City on Feb. 25. Read more for ticketing and other information.
The first annual Cave Mountain Catskills Music Festival is coming to Windham Mountain on Sept. 15-16 featuring well-known indie rock acts.
Organized by the team behind Brooklyn Made Presents and Crush Music, the Cave Mountain Catskills Music Festival will offer attendees a great experience due to the organizers’ talent of bringing top-notch musical talent together and creating unforgettable events. The festival features Weezer, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Dinosaur Jr., Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Albert Hammond Jr., Lee Fields, Courtney Marie Andrews, Sheer Mag, and more.
“Brooklyn Made Presents couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this exciting new festival at the beautiful Windham Mountain in the Catskills,” comments Brooklyn Made President and CEO Anthony Makes. “When Bob McLynn of Crush Music came to me with this idea, it was a no-brainer to jump in and partner on this amazing event. We can’t wait to present this festival to all of New York’s incredible music fans this fall. Windham Mountain is the perfect location for a music festival, and we can’t wait to see everyone come together for a weekend of great music, food, and fun.”
In addition to the great music, the festival offers a wide range of food and beverage options and local craft vendors. Tickets for the festival go on sale Friday, March 10, with a VIP ticket option available. VIP ticket holders will receive a dedicated VIP entrance, exclusive prime viewing locations, special access to private lounge areas, a commemorative festival poster, and more. For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit here.
The 2023 Sammy Awards took place on March 3 at The Palace Theater in Syracuse. This year’s ceremony had an outstanding turn out as all came together to celebrate and applaud the accomplishments of all artists and genres of music across Central New York.
This year’s SAMMY Awards were hosted by Dave Frisnia, notable for his career in broadcasting. Frisnia hosts his online radio show “Soulshine” every Sunday morning, and claimed to be one of the longest-running local music broadcast shows in the state of New York. A notable highlight of this year’s show included bringing out members on stage of the all time ‘Hall of Fame’ from the past 30 years.
These Hall of Famers came together to applaud their gratitude to Liz Nowak nominated as Founder of the Year. On stage she states, “I’ve worked and learned from everyone on this stage tonight. We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the music that you create. It’s your courage that puts those lyrics to page.” Her dedication to the SAMMYs is well recognized among the Syracuse music community and the annual awards show wouldn’t be where it stands today, without her.
This year, not only was the SAMMYs a place of recognition with awards but also a place to acknowledge the joy of music. Between nominations various bands and musicians came to play and show their talent who deserve recognition. Such as Not Robots!, opening with one of their hit songs ‘Go Peacefully’. Other bands performing included Carolyn Kelly Blues Band, Chuck Schiele’s Quatro, Trauma Cat and the Brownskin Band, and a special performance by Dylan Michael, nominated as Best New Artist. At only tthe age of 13, Dylan proved his young talent on the electric guitar, having started playing at the age of 6 years old. As Best New Artist, Dylan won 6 hours from local recording studio SubCat Studios.
To conclude the 2023 SAMMY Awards, a major milestone was marked, celebrating 30 years of appreciating and awarding local talent and musicians from Central New York. Breaking all records with 242,190 total votes this year, NYS Music had the honor in presenting the Jazz Award to promote and honor blues, swing and passion expressed with creative freedom, and honoring diversity, collaboration and the community that music holds to bring us together.
Twenty artists, six days, one city: the 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival announces performers and schedule, happening March 23-28, featuring regional, national, and international jazz artists performing in venues across the city.
The 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival is held in the city of Geneva, known for innovation and forward-thinking businesses. It is the gateway to the Finger Lakes, providing access to historical landmarks, natural beauties, wineries, breweries, food, shopping, and more. The festival is in cooperation with the 6th annual Scott Lafaro Celebration concert presented by Smith Center for the Arts.
Scott LaFaro grew up in Geneva, and at age 18 he started learning to play the double bass. In 1961 he was killed in a car accident at age 25. He became the most influential jazz bassist ever after his performance with Stan Getz at the Newport Jazz festival and subsequent recordings with the Bill Evans Trio, which still impacts jazz today. For this year’s Lafaro celebration, The Smith Center for the Arts presents Christian McBride’s New Jawn. He has appeared on more than 300 recordings as a sideman and is an eight-time Grammy Award winner and the Artistic Director for the Newport Jazz Festival.
Schedule
The festival kicks off on Thursday, March 23 with a kickoff reception at Finger Lakes Live starting at 4 p.m. The Geneva All-stars Sextet will play at the venue at 6 p.m. and at 9 p.m. there will be a FLIMA Open Jazz Jam with Gonzo. The next day, March 24, has many acts throughout the day at various venues. From 2-5 p.m., a TBA act will perform at Empire Coffee & Donuts, and happening from 3-6 p.m. is the Matrix Duo at Brewery Ardennes. They are the premier flute and guitar duo performing throughout the southern tier of New York State and surrounding areas, consisting of Michele Gordon (flute) and Dennis Winge (guitar).
Friday also brings the Rick Hoyt Trio to Lake Drum Brewing from 4-7 p.m. DeWayne Perry & Friends will perform at The Linden Social Club from 5-8 p.m, and from 7-10 p.m. at Finger Lakes Live, the Bobby Henrie Quartet feat. Mike Kaupa makes an appearance. Henrie is from Middlesex, NY, and is a guitarist, singer, and multi-instrumentalist, steeped in a wide variety of roots music. He has been involved in many projects in the finger lakes/upstate region including the Henrie Brothers, Bobby Henrie & the Goners, The Djangoners, and more. Ending the day of jazz at 10 p.m. is the FLIMA Open Jazz Jam at The Linden Social Club.
Just as jam-packed as the day before it, Saturday starts with Greg Wachala at Beef & Brew from 1-4 p.m. and a matinée show at 2 p.m. by dynamic trio Pickle Mafia. The group has garnered nationwide attention through their groundbreaking, unique brand of Arena Jazz Fusion, has racked up 10,000+ viewing hours on YouTube, and has developed an extremely loyal fan base. The Ben Miller Trio will be at Lake Drum Brewing from 4-7 p.m. Miller is a jazz pianist, composer, and producer, born in the Philippines, and raised in Peru and upstate New York. He is also a member of the Orbiting Human Circus Quartet, Jesse Collins Quartet, Taru Alexander Quartet, and several other bands.
Continuing on Saturday is the Hanna PK Trio at The Linden Social Club from 5-8 p.m. Hanna PK is a pianist, soulful vocalist, and vibrant performer, born and raised in South Korea, currently residing in Rochester, playing in a variety of genres. In Nov. 2021, she released her debut album Blues All Over My Shoes on the VizzTone Label with Booga Music of internationally-known bluesman, Kenny Neal, debuting at #13 on Billboard’s US Blues chart.
From 7-10 p.m., Jimmie Highsmith Jr. with a five-piece band will be performing at Finger Lakes Live. A native of Rochester, he is a critically acclaimed, Grammy Nominated, and award-winning saxophonist, sharing the stage and opening for artists like Najee, Alicia Keys, Wynton Marsalis, and more. The Spring Benefit Concert is GMF’s largest fundraiser, featuring Anna Petrova, piano; Geoffrey Herd, violin; Eric Wong, viola; and Peter Eom, cello, performing Schubert’s B-Flat String Trio, D. 471, Café Music by Schoenfield, and Brahms’ Piano Quartet in G Minor, Op. 25. Tickets are available for purchase here. Ending the day is an Open Jazz Jam at The Linden Social Club, starting at 10 p.m.
Sunday brings many notable people across the city, starting with a jazz brunch at The Linden Social Club from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with Paradigm Shift. The group formed in the early 90s in Rochester with the goal to bring spirit back to neo-jazz with organic, funky grooves and street-level ambiance. The band is comprised of bandleader Melvin Henderson, co-founder Gerry Youngman, and drummer-composer Sean Jefferson. The rest of the day takes place at Finger Lakes Live Events, starting with award-winning jazz artist Nancy Kelly at 2 p.m., the Craig Snyder Trio from 6-9 p.m., and a FLIMA Open Jazz Jam at 9 p.m.
On Monday at 4:30 p.m., there will be a meet and greet with Steve Davis at Ventosa Vineyards, and a dinner show with his quintet at 6 p.m. Davis was raised in Binghamton and graduated in 1989 from Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute, landing his first major gig with Art Blakey in NYC. In 1998 he won the TDWR (Rising Star) Trombone Category and was later named consecutively as Trombonist of the Year by The JJA. He has released 20 albums and is widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. The final day features FLIMA Tuesdays: Gonztet Jazz + Jam at Twisted Rail Brewin from 5-9 p.m.
To purchase tickets for the many performances at the 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival, visit here.
Welcome to Round 2 of NYS Music’s March Madness 2023! Below you’ll find 16 matchups between 32 bands and artists from across New York State, from numerous genres, all on the rise and ready to make a name for themselves.
For the past 8 years, this annual competition has been shining a spotlight on the talented artists and musicians from across the Empire State. This year’s competition promises to be the biggest and best yet, with a lineup of diverse genres and highly skilled performers. March Madness 2023 highlights 64 bands and artists you might not know, but should know, as these homegrown talents are making waves through the New York State. Check out Round 1 here.
Enter your email address, meet the bands and artists below, and vote for your favorites!
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The Yard Amphitheater is an outdoor music venue nestled in the rolling hills of NY State with BBQ on site, an outdoor bar, space for lawn games, and room to dance! Watching a performance at The Yard is similar to watching a concert in your own backyard, with the exception that this backyard features a fully stocked outdoor bar, mouthwatering BBQ, and nationally touring performers.
Yard Amphitheater Region
Elephant Back vs Eberwine
Elephant Back was formed in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. Two musicians getting together to write some kick ass music together. Dave and Sarah proceeded to write, record, and mix an entire album in their home studios. Sent it out for mastering and then began creating stunning visuals in the form of music videos for each song they produced. Each video was released with each single over the course of a year until the release of the entire album in August 2022. Check out their song “Go To War” here.
Buffalo-based rock and blues quintet eberwine (sic) is known for innovative improvisation, soulful lyrics, and high-energy shows. The band’s music highlights the best of rock and blues with nods to 90s alt-rock and jam. eberwine is the brainchild of frontman and guitarist Todd Eberwine (Dive House Union, Soul Roach, Todd Eberwine Band). What started as a solo project in 2016, is now a touring five-piece pulling seasoned musicians from the Buffalo music scene into a Western New York supergroup featuring Ryan Nogle (Funktional Flow, Aqueous), Evan Laedke (Tim Britt Band), Aaron Ziolkowski (Little Mountain Band), and Jay Race (Dead Alliance Buffalo). Listen to “Worlds Away” here.
Honey Suckle Vine vs Sydney Irving and the Mojo
Honey Suckle Vine (HSV) is a high-energy 4-piece blues-rock band based out of the Capital District of New York State. The songwriting team of Joey Jaquez (vocals, harmonica) and Jeremy Silverman (guitar, vocals) have been creating original material for over 20 years across the USA. Joined in 2017 by long time friends Graham Espe (bass, vocals, recording and production) and David Snediker (drums, vocals), HSV is ready to entertain. Check out their most recent album Painted Nights.
New York native, Sydney Irving is in the early years of her music career, but she has already been named the 2020 young adult artist of the year by the International Singer Songwriters Association and the 2022 Best New Artist at the Syracuse Area Music Awards. At only 14, her debut album, “Hello Stranger” was released. She was also named the 2020 Female Artist of the Year by Music Mafia Radio. Check out “You Can’t Forget About Me” here.
Canella vs Mainline
Canella is a rising indie-rock band from Albany + Bogotá, Colombia. Inspired by the sounds of 2000’s alt rock, they have established an electric presence in NY’s Capital Region as winners of WCDB Radio’s ‘Song of the Year’ award for their debut single “Quiet Love”. Joining the Tulip Fest 2022 Lineup, Canella set a fire on stage that ignited female fronted rock nostalgia but with a refreshing DIY take. Their music is inspired and dedicated to former bandmate and best friend, Kyle Robinson who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2020. Listen to their most recent single “Why Can’t I” released last month!
MAINLINE officially hit the scene at the end of 2019 when Anthony Schettino (Bass), Johnny Iodice (Lead Singer & Guitar), Mason Servedio (Drums), and Devin Reck (Guitar) released their debut single “Open Fire” which eventually led to the self-titled EP that came out in February of 2020. Their album “The Unholy Idol” has garnered up over 80,000+ streams across platforms, and has gotten worldwide attention. The current lineup since 2022 now includes Ryan Hartell on guitar, replacing Devin Reck. As of November 2022, the band released their most recent single “In Nothing We Trust” everywhere on streaming.
An Easy Death vs Blue 22
An Easy Death is a 5-piece Post-Punkcore band based out of the Rochester area drawing influence from bands like Blink-182, Oceans Ate Alaska, Everytime I Die, MxPx, and It Dies Today. The band formed in 2020 and has since been making a name for themselves in the Rochester and Buffalo areas. Check out their most recent release from January, “The Debt That All Men Pay“.
Blue 22 is a local Rochester band specializing in performing classic rock covers and original tunes for private and public events. Blue 22’s lineup consists of twins Dom Spinelli and Nick Spinelli, Eli Burgard, and Will Hyman. Blue 22 is currently working on recording their first album, Where the Music is Loud, but in the meantime, listen to their song “Tantalize”.
Voting for Round 2 has ended. Please check back for Round 3, starting Saturday, March 11 and 8am!
Regional sponsors include Funk n Waffles, a premiere music venue in Syracuse established in 2007 with a unique take on the culinary and entertainment industries, offering a wide variety of gourmet waffles and breakfast food, as well as offering live music every night!
Funk n Waffles Region
Blue Envy vs Farrow
Blue Envy is an alternative rock band based in Rochester, NY. Known for their unique style inspired by the rock, blues, and progressive rock artists of the past, the group has worked to concoct an original sound that consistently pushes their musical limits. Since their formation in 2018, the band has been honing their craft by gigging heavily throughout NYS, all while continually creating new music that strives to expand their compositional abilities.
With thought provoking lyrics, strong melodies, and deep grooves, Farrow brings to life a vibe reminiscent of decades past whilst grounded in a modern sonic landscape. Based in Buffalo and led by producer/bass player Andre Pilette and singer/lyricist Michael Farrow, the band features Tim Webb on drums, Michael Ruopoli on percussion, Cory Clancy on guitar, Rufus “Breexy” Cole Jr. on keps, and Danielle Johnson on backing vocals. Check out the band’s website for videos and music updates, like their most recent single “The Creek“.
Fine Grain vs Black Tongue Reverend
Fine Grain floats in between shoegaze haze and punk posturing. With prog-inspired riffs, post-punk murk, and the occasional ripping sax solo, fine grain offers up rambunctious reverie fit for hardcore fans of all generations. Fine Grain’s maturation is a testament to the transformative possibility of punk, showing how pulled threads of the past can still stitch together a promising new future. Visit here to listen to their latest release, their album “Missing Adult“.
Formed in 2021, Black Tongue Reverend plays a unique style of heavy psychedelic Stoner-Blues that draws influence from every decade from the 60s and 70s psychedelic rock movement through today’s flourishing Stoner Rock/Doom scene. With a punk-like DIY spirit they have self-recorded and released two records to date, the EP “Northern Burden” in February 2022, and most recently, the LP “All Of Them Have Fangs” in October 2022. Committed to keeping things fresh and interesting, their loud and energetic live performances feature touches of improvisation that ensure no two performances are ever the same.
Maggie’s Clan vs Jennie Angel
Maggie’s Clan is American Celtic Rock, fusing traditional Celtic instrumentation and folklore with the contagious energy of rock and roll. Created in 2016, this 7 piece, one of a kind powerhouse have been performing at local and regional pubs, music venues and festivals in NY from Rockaway, Queens to the Adirondacks. Maggie will hit you with a wall of sound from driving rhythms, hard rock vocals, bagpipes, fiddle and mandolin. Their self-titled album “Maggie’s Clan” can be found on all streaming services .
Jennie Angel is an actress who recently rediscovered her love for music. Started playing the guitar when she was 16 and has been singing she was born, now performing popular country hits! Jennie has most recently been added as a member of the Academy of Country Music and will be attending the awards show in March. Music and merch are both available on her website. Check out her most recent single, released on Valentines Day, “You Proof“.
Seeing Double vs The Forest Dwellers
Seeing Double, an Oneonta based rock band, is electrifying the college music scene in their tiny Upstate town with a growing fanbase and reputation among the community with their high-energy shows. Combining their signature twin harmonies, feel-good grooves, and punchy instrumentals, “The Doub” creates a unique sound reminiscent of 70s pop-rock and modern indie with their growing category of songs. Listen to their most recent single “Bygones” here.
The Forest Dwellers are a reggae-infused folk/ indie group based out of Rochester, NY that plays universal medicine music. The band blends melodic music with incredible vocal harmonies. Stemming from different styles and genres, The Forest Dwellers fuse them into a new take on a familiar sound all its own. Listen to their song “Open Road” here.
Voting for Round 2 has ended. Please check back for Round 3, starting Saturday, March 11 and 8am!
Jane Dough help cannabis entrepreneurs win business licenses, optimize facility design, standardize operation, increase revenue and design their future.
Jane Dough Region
PEAK vs Pencildive
PEAK’s music, described as Psychedelic Indie Funk, is a mix of poetic, melodic songwriting, moody electrofunk, riffed-out blues-rock, and exploratory danceable improvisations. Some of their many influences include artists such as The Band, The Talking Heads, Phish, The Grateful Dead, Radiohead, James Brown, and Miles Davis, as well as modern songwriters such as Conor Oberst, Mac Demarco, Kurt Vile, and Jack White to name a few. The band’s website has links to their music, including their most recent album, “Choppy Water“.
Pencildive is a rock band based in Saratoga Springs and Brooklyn, led by songwriter Gina De Nardo. Their sound is both tender and explosive with punchy drums and gritty guitar interwoven with brooding melodies and live noise experiments, described as indie gloom, punk, and alternative. Listen to their debut album “Grown Ups” here.
Murder In Rue Morgue vs Kids in the Basement
Murder in Rue Morgue is CJ Carr, John Wolff, Matt Biss, and Dan Ouimette, hailing from the hometown of Manowar, and Level 7 in Auburn. The band is highly influenced by melodic death metal, such as In Flames, Killswitch Engage, and Times of Grace. The band is a group of hardworking musicians who leave it all up on the stage giving the best show every time. Listen to their 2019 album “Endless Cycles” here.
Kids In The Basement is a high energy four piece Jam/Dance rock band that formed in 2015 in Rochester. Starting off from humble beginnings, KITB frequently found themselves as staples at Park Ave House parties. As time went on and their following grew, they eventually moved their act to larger venues and stages across the state. As a result of playing hundreds of shows across NY over the years, they have gained a loyal following of all ages that are keen to their upbeat music and dance party-like vibe. Kids In The Basement truly brings the party to every show they play! Listen to their most recent song “Tijuana” here.
Side-B vs Whaley
Born out of Albany, Side-B is an energetic 4-piece alternative rock band that blends influences ranging from classic rock acts like Led Zeppelin and The Police to funk, blues, jazz, punk, folk, and modern alternative. Their home-recorded single, “The Mountain Song,” perfectly showcases this creative fusion of styles. After making waves in the Capital Region and beyond, the quartet is now on the verge of a release for their debut full-length album.
Whaley comes from Long Island, and they are a culmination of the best material & musicians Logan has written & met over the last 8 years since graduating from music school. His music can be best described as having old-school sensibilities with a new-school vibe. He released his debut album “Funky Tonight” this past February.
Mall Goth vs Sarah King
Mall Goth is the musical project of Ella Kasper, Peter Lukach, Sam Meyer, James Hatari and Kensho Ueda, based in Binghamton, NY. The friends met through the local music scene while attending Binghamton University, and formed Mall Goth in October 2022. Since then they’ve been performing together all over the state of New York. Listen to their self titled debut album “Mall Goth” here.
Known for her powerhouse voice and “fiery, vulnerable songs,” Sarah King creates thought-provoking, versatile Americana music. Her genuine stories about real-life emotions and situations also draw on classic folk-blues themes, balancing songs about the devil and booze with hard-won moments of reflection and acceptance. Her acclaimed 2021 EP The Hour, produced by Simone Felice and David Baron, earned her recognition as the New England Music Awards Songwriter of the Year and performances at the 2022 Folk Alliance International and Philadelphia Folk festivals, as well as supporting slots for acts including Blues Traveler and The Steel Woods. Listen to her most recent single “Blame It On the Booze” here.
Voting for Round 2 has ended. Please check back for Round 3, starting Saturday, March 11 and 8am!
Having a huge calendar each month with a wide variety of genres, shows and experiences, the Strand Theatre holds the distinction as the only major music venue in Washington and Warren Counties that is open year-round. The Strand creates community through music and the related arts in Hudson Falls.
Strand Theatre Hudson Falls Region
The Brass Machine vs The E-Block
The Brass Machine is one of the premiere touring acts on the live music circuit today, laying down funky New Orleans-style street beats across the United States and Canada. Formed in 2014 at the University at Buffalo, The Brass Machine provides a unique blend of hip hop, funk, and R&B, all in an infectious and energetic brass-y package. Having performed alongside national acts such as Earth, Wind, and Fire, Starship, The Soul Rebels, Rebirth Brass Band, Bonerama, John Papa Gros, CJ Chenier and more – The Brass Machine is hittin’ the streets HARD.
The E-Block is a 5-piece indie R&B band based in Upstate New York, blending the acoustic warmth of singer-songwriter music with an ice-cold rhythm section informed by modern R&B. Led by guitarist Luke Pascarella, with the line up of saxophonist James Soren keyboardist Devin Tetlak, bassist Daniel Folds, and drummer Leroy “Rudy” Dalton, the band’s deep bag of influences and free-flowing style have earned them a reputation as a unique live act in the Capital Region scene. Follow their instagram for all the current action, including their new project “Waterfall” releasing this spring. In the meantime, listen to their most recent track “Stay” here.
Sly Fox and the Hustlers vs Hilltop
A Saratoga Springs based band, Sly Fox and the Hustlers was formed in 2010 when Sly Fox’s longtime friend and musical partner, the Anti- Records recording artist Sean Rowe took a leave from rock and roll to focus on performing solo. At the same time, Sly had been writing songs to help work through a difficult time in his life, and was becoming an engaging singer. Listen to “Find Someone” here.
Hilltop is a four piece jam band from Albany, NY. Over the past four years they’ve made a name for themselves with carefully crafted originals, mind bending improvisation & fun, diverse covers. Each member offers a proficient, unique approach to their instrument that defines the musical experience. This band of young musicians is eager to spread their music and will continue to engage crowds wherever they go. Listen to their newest release, a collection of live performances, titled “Live Rips” here.
Xavier Sharp vs Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine
Xavier Sharp is a New York based alternative rapper, singer and producer. He enjoys long walks on the beach and romantic candlelit dinners. Xavier is 21, single, has no kids and is just looking to get back out there after the divorce. He currently attends school at SUNY Oneonta but he enjoys attending alternative hip hop shows on weekends. He says if you swipe right “you’ve swiped right.” Listen to his most recent single “On God” below.
Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and roots singer Deb Cavanaugh lives in the foothills of the Taconic Mountains, in Upstate New York. In the mid-nineties, Deb focused on traditional folk music such as Old Time, traditional ballads, and Irish dance tunes. She now formed Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine, playing a variety of styles including blues, rock and traditional folk as well as a variety of instruments. Dandelion Wine’s line-up may vary depending on the venue and availability of musicians. Dandelion Wine is Jared Carrozza on bass and Ben Hart on drums, who also provides vocals and occasional lead guitar. The unique blend of blues, rock & roll, and folk is what gives Dandelion Wine a genre best defined as “psychedelic folk.” Find out more about her incredible story and listen to songs at her website, including their most recent release “Electric Avenue“.
Lil Josiey vs Seize Atlantis
David Gomula-Mosso, popularly known as Lil Josiey is a young Alternative Pop singer/songwriter from Amsterdam, NY. He also plays the piano and guitar where he self-taught himself off of YouTube. His latest single is, “Dreaming About You” that was released this year on Valentines Day. When asked about the band, MJ Savino of PMV Magazine said “It’s quite refreshing to come across young talent well-crafted in multiple genres of music and instruments from Pop to Emo to Alternative.”
Formed in 2019, Seize Atlantis, is an Alternative Rock Band located in Upstate NY that play a variety of genres, including originals and covers. The band consists of James Mullen (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Mike Dardas (Bass/Vocals), Luc Bourgault (Lead Guitar) and Cody Platt (Drums). Listen to “The Unstoppable Groove” here.
Voting for Round 2 has ended. Please check back for Round 3, starting Saturday, March 11 and 8am!
Voting ends at 11:59pm on Wednesday, March 8th. Winners will be announced on March 9th, with voting in Round 3 running March 11-13. Good luck to all the bands!
NYS Music has partnered with these great businesses across New York State to highlight the 64 up and coming bands and artists of NYS Music March Madness, Round 1 and 2.
The finalists of of each region will be rewarded with a collection of prizes worth $3000. Partners for NYS Music’s March Madness 2023 include Mirth Films from Albany, a music news/entertainment outlet that specializes in original video content and live streaming, with news coverage ranging across the whole country, who will provide a professional multi-camera recording session at a prestigious venue in Albany for the winning band, premiering exclusively on Mirth Films.
Additionally, one finalist will earn a spot on the lineup for the Scarsdale Music Festival, held on June 3, 2023
WEQX is a radio station in Manchester, VT. They’re are completely independently owned and operated, always have been, since 1984. This station exists out of a love for music, a love for radio, and the commitment to always giving their listeners the best of the best.
Actor and comedian Adam Sandler is continuing his critically acclaimed comedy tour this spring, with shows in seven US cities, including Buffalo at the KeyBank Center. Kicking off on April 13, Sandler will make his Buffalo appearance on April 16, as the tour will be a short-lived one, ending on April 21.
Adam Sandler at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo. Credit: Instagram
Born in Brooklyn, Adam Sandler is famous for his comedic work, including 1999’s Big Daddy and the 2010 film Grown Ups, just to name a few. The actor’s theatrical releases have grossed more than $3 billion worldwide, and his Netflix original movies have been some of the most successful releases on the streaming service. His latest film, Hustle, was released last June, becoming a favorite among critics and audiences. Sandler began transitioning to Netflix as early as 2016, when his 2018 comedy special 100% Fresh, his first in 20 years, was released on the service.
For his work in stand-up and films, Sandler has won a number of awards, most recently a Kid’s Choice Award for King of Comedy at this year’s ceremony, and a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role at the 2023 Screen Actor’s Guild Awards.
Tickets for Adam Sandler’s live spring comedy show are now available. For more information about the Buffalo KeyBank Center, visit their website.
ADAM SANDLER LIVE TOUR DATES:
Thu Apr 13 — Newark, NJ — Prudential Center
Fri Apr 14 — Philadelphia, PA — Wells Fargo Center
Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, and Zakir Hussain, along with Rakesh Chaurasia, have announced a US tour supporting their upcoming album, As We Speak. The group will tour throughout April and May, with a performance at The Town Hall in New York City on May 4, and the Troy Saving Bank Music Hall on May 5. Their upcoming album is scheduled for release on May 12, through Thirty Tigers.
From left to right: Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia. Credit: Jeremy Cowart
As We Speak showcases the quartet’s various abilities and the wide range of influences at their command. Consisting of 12 songs, the album combines the complexity of Indian rhythm with the groove of a funky bass line. The show is sure to be one you’re not going to want to miss.
The album’s first piece, “Owl’s Misfortune” was written by Fleck. The song is intended to “echo the different worlds we all come from,” according to Fleck. “I imagined creating a world where classical language could live alongside Indian musical rhythmic ideas—and since I wrote it, bluegrass lives there too,” Fleck added.
The core trio was formed while Fleck and Meyer were searching for a third member for their triple concerto, to mark the opening of Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Zakir came to mind, who was eager to write for an orchestra. The three then collaborated on Fleck’s 2009 album The Melody of the Rhythm, recorded with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra under Leonard Slatkin.
The trio then met Chaurasia while in India on tour for The Melody of the Rhythm. Hussain already knew Chaurasia through his uncle, Indian flute legend Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, and invited him to sit in on their tour, and their chemistry shined. “I think we wanted to see if we could do something a little more organic with just a small group,” says Meyer. “What I think is good about this quartet is that everybody has to stretch in the direction of the other people,” added Fleck.
Pre-order / pre-save As We Speak here. Tickets for the group’s tour areon sale now. In addition to the quartet’s performance at The Town Hall in New York City and the Troy Saving Bank Music Hall on May 5, a November US tour is to follow.
As We Speak Tour Dates
April 19 Nashville, TN Schermerhorn Symphony Center
April 20 Atlanta, GA Emory University
April 21 Germantown, TN Duncan-Williams PAC
April 22 Boone, NC Appalachian State University
April 23 North Bethesda, MD The Music Center at Strathmore
April 25 Charleston, SC Charleston Gaillard Center
April 27 Danville, KY Norton Center for the Arts
April 29 Cutler Bay, FL The Moss Center at South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center
April 30 Charlotte, NC Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center
May 2 Munhall, PA Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall
May 3 Norfolk, VA Virginia Arts Festival
May 4 New York, NY The Town Hall
May 5 Troy, NY Troy Saving Bank Music Hall
May 6 Boston, MA Celebrity Series of Boston at Berklee Performance Center
Indie rock band Dogboy released their first single, “That’s What We Wanted” on February 10. Their next single, “Cowboy Killer”, was released on March 3, and the third, “Rush” will be released on March 31, respectively. They recently finished recording their five-track EP, produced by Kit Conway, at Fraser Studios.
Dogboy formed in early 2022, and their musical style is inspired by artists like Shel Silverstein, the Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, Jean Dawson, and Briston Maroney. They have performed their original songs throughout venues in Manhattan and Brooklyn. With grinding guitars and propulsive percussion, the band is a surf rock-inspired poetic pop punk band setting out to capitalize on their huge catalog of original songs, but more importantly, put on engaging, high-energy live shows.
“That’s What We Wanted” is the perfect title for the band’s debut single. After all the hard work and dedication the band put into their music, they got just what they wanted, making it big with their first single being released publicly. The song’s strength is in its versatility, allowing any listener to be able to identify with its message. It can be taken literally, for audiences that want to take a sigh of relief after finally getting something they wanted after pouring their heart and soul into it. For others, it can allow them to have a moment of self-reflection, remembering that they got just what they wanted, even if it’s not what they imagined.
“Cowboy Killer” has more of a soft-rock feel. It has the vibe, in all the best ways, of a classic ’90s song by rock legends such as the Beach Boys, Arctic Monkeys, and the Strokes. It has something for everyone, providing all rock fans with their fix and giving an extra level of nostalgia for those fans that love the classics.
Dogboy have appearances schedules with Radio Free Brooklyn – NFP providing community radio for Brooklyn, NY, and Flowstate Series – PBS All Arts documentary series by Cyprian Films New York. They’ll also be on two podcasts soon, Stern Chats – NYU Stern Graduate School Podcast, and No Suggestion – Improv Comedy Talk Show Based in Brooklyn.
“That’s What We Wanted” and “Cowboy Killer” are now available to listen to now on Spotify.
Video of live performance of “That’s What We Wanted” at Rockwood Music Hall
The Ryan Matter Band, a Texas-blues power trio originating in Texas and now rocking New York State, got its start when Ryan Matter was working at 290 West Bar in Austin, TX. Working alongside several musicians, performing on the red dirt music scene, Ryan’s passion for music was noticed and he was encouraged to release his recordings and hit the road.
Now, this band born out of Texas calls New York home, with Dennis Knight (drummer & visual time keeper, vocals), Jon Monaghan (bass guitar, quantum physics) and Ryan Matter (guitar, vocals) are a power trio with a sound of Southern Rock and Dirty Blues – think ZZ Top meets Social Distortion.
Rob Smittix of RadioRadioX spoke with Ryan to get to know this unique act gracing the stages of Upstate New York,
Ryan Matter: What’s up brother?
Rob Smittix: What’s going on?
RM: Choking down a beer before I start playing.
RS: Excellent! So, what’s new and exciting with The Ryan Matter Band?
RM: I literally just booked this about 20 minutes ago. We’re goin to North Carolina in March, the week before that we’re in Florida for three days. Coming home we’re trying to pick up something in South Carolina then North Carolina and come home.
RS: That’s amazing man.
photo by Stephanie Bartik
RM: I mean it blows my mind how sh*t’s working out right now. But just trying to stay busy that’s been the big key. Trying to get re-established as a busy band.
RS: Right, well it looks like you’re on track for that. Up here you kind of fall into the category of southern rock but you’re going down south, what do they call bands from up north that play this kind of music?
RM: (Laughs) Southern rock.
RS: It’s still southern rock, alright.
RM: It’s southern rock with a touch of blues. When people think of ZZ Top, it’s dirty Texas blues. With me living in Texas for as long as I did, that’s kind of where we found our comfort zone. As a writer, that’s where the writing came out. It’s kind of like, hey, here we go, this is what we are, this is what we do.
RS: I remember you telling me that you were in Texas for a while. Are you from Texas?
RM: I’m from California. I’m from Los Angeles.
RS: The first time I was in LA was before the time of GPS and I found my way around easily just by remembering how it looked on TV.
RM: Mmm Hmm, it’s not hard to figure out. All of the roads are pretty squared.
RS: I don’t know how I did it. I drove from San Francisco. When I hit LA, I just came down Mulholland Drive. I’m staying on the Sunset Strip and it’s right there.
RM: It’s crazy because I used to be able to drive all of those f**king roads with my eyes closed.
RS: Hollywood was like Schenectady in the 80’s, but with stars on the sidewalk.
photo by Stephanie Bartik
RM: It’s gotten worse over time, it used to not be too bad. I mean it was always kind of dumpy but…
RS: Last time I was there was definitely worse than the first.
RM: My last time there was three and a half to four years ago and it was terrible. I don’t think I ever really want to go back.
RS: And you’re from there.
RM: And I’m from there. My dad still lives out there and he’s like do you want to come visit? I’m like not really.
RS: You’d love to see him though I’m sure. So, I’m really glad you are on board to be our first BANDwith segment. Stephanie J Bartik’s photography and my conversations with bands and artists seem to be a great combo. So, I guess I should ask, do you have any new recordings or anything in process?
RM: We’re actually working on a new live album right now. We recorded it several months ago, we’re in the mixing process right now, getting all of the tracks finalized. We actually just released a live track of “All Over Now,” one of the better songs that will be on the album. We dropped it as a single release leading up to the 2023 of the bootleg live album. That’s what we’re working on right now and from there when we take our mini tour we’re going to start working on pre-production and writing some new stuff and figuring out some of the other songs that I still have that we haven’t done.
RS: I’m glad it’s a live album. You’re a great live band to see and I think that’s definitely the way to go. I don’t know if you’re planning on doing CD, vinyl or MP3’s. What’s the deal going to be?
photo by Stephanie Bartik
RM: We’re going to start with digital but we’re probably going to end up doing CDs just because I feel strongly enough about the album that we can invest more money into the promo of it.
RS: It sounds like you’re getting the momentum that you need.
RM: We’re really starting to pick it up. It’s been a nice change of pace. 2022 ended the way it has. Obviously opening for Mountain. It’s the stepping stones right now that are falling into place. I’m very thankful. It’s all starting to pick up and go in a direction that it hasn’t for a very long time. It’s nice to see all of the hard work starting to pay off. If that makes sense?
RS: Definitely. Last time I saw you and I got to talk with you was at Pauly’s Hotel for the Mountain show. First of all, I think that they picked the best opening act, secondly you guys f**king crushed it so much, with a great stage presence. Your drummer is sick and I love the way that he talks to the audience to bring the crowd into it. But…I would say you guys did not sound like a local band opening up for Mountain, you sounded like the band that should’ve been on tour with Mountain.
RM: Well, I appreciate it.
photo by Stephanie Bartik
RS: Oh man, you guys f**king ripped it, man. I’ve only seen you perform a couple of times but I’ve always been impressed. I’m sure it’ll only get better and for people that haven’t seen you before I highly recommend it.
RM: It’s been a nice feeling, the reactions that we get when we come out that way and play. The bass player and I live in the Utica area and Dennis is the local guy. We love coming out there. It’s always a fun show, no matter where it’s at in Albany, in the Capital District. It’s a great time, everybody’s very open to the original music, which is a nice change of pace. I feel like we’re building a strong following out that way, it continues to open up new doors.
RS: I had to ask this silly question because I always kind of wondered. For a band that puts you front and center as The Ryan Matter Band. How does a band decide we’re going to go ahead and use your name as the band?
RM: It started out about 13 years ago and the band actually started out as 2 Lane Blacktop. Between solo shows and band shows, it started to lose name recognition. So, I started to build a following as a solo artist in Texas. When I’d go out with the band, nobody would know who 2 Lane Blacktop was. As things progressed, the two became one because of name recognition so it morphed into The Ryan Matter Band. It wasn’t for any other reason.
The catalog of legendary alternative hip hop group De La Soul is now available for streaming, ending years of legal wrangling that left the Amityville trio’s musical legacy unheard by the masses.
To celebrate the occasion, and the life of the late Dave Jolicoeur, Trugoy the Dove, The Da.i.s.y Experience was held at Webster Hall on Thursday, March 2. This free event was RSVP only for those lucky enough to score a spot on the list, and featured Dave Chappelle, Queen Latifah, Q-Tip, Common, D-Nice, Talib Kweli, Busta Rhymes, Kid Capri and many more come through and celebrate.
DA.I.S.Y. is an acronym for “Da Inner Sound Y’all,” one that fans of De La Soul are familiar with. During the show, “immersive activation” transformed Webster Hall into a De La destination, utilizing artwork from their classic debut 3 Feet High and Rising. Additional performers included DJs Stretch Armstrong, Clark Kent, Rich Medina, and Tony Touch, as well as De La Soul members Posdnuos and Maseo.
Also this week, De La Soul took fans behind the scenes of the official music video for “Me, Myself and I,” in the latest installment of Vevo Footnotes.
During the episode, Posdnuos discussed the creation of their iconic song, and how it allowed the group to address negative media labels. He highlights how the ‘Twilight Zone’ influenced the video’s opening segment with producer Prince Paul and their comedic approach to the video, playing off their hip-hop style. He explains the video aimed to underscore individuality and confidence, and Posdnuos suggests that if they remade the video today, they might focus on inner growth instead of external independence. He also shares a standout memory from the video’s scene with teacher Def Beat, and reveals that Ali Shaheed Muhammad from A Tribe Called Quest wrote “De La Sucks” on the bathroom wall.
On Sunday, the band shared “Dear Dave,” a note to the fallen member, Dave Jolicoeur, aka Trugoy the Dove. The band reflected on the untimely passing, just as the catalog was made available to fans.
Dear Dave,
You were the heart of our group. You brought so much creativity, energy, and passion to our music, and your influence will be felt for years to come.
Your passing is a great loss not only to us, but also to the entire hip-hop community. You were a true artist who used music to inspire and uplift others, and you will be deeply missed by all who knew you.
This is heavy on our hearts and minds but we are smiling and even laughing at all the great times we shared with you. As we attempt to navigate this world without you, we stand grateful and proud of all you accomplished on this earth.
We would like to say thank you Dave for being a big brother. Thank you for being a friend. Thank you for the wise words placed in your verses. Thank you for the music you produced that is loved by so many. Thank you for never wanting to compromise the quality of our brand. Thank you for helping us become a group that will remain etched in the timeline of hip hop culture as well as the fabric of music and for now on when we perform “Ring Ring Ring Ha Ha Hey” we will say “2-2-2-2-222 we got an angel in heaven who can talk to you”.
We love you Dave and thank you Dave!
Everyone, please celebrate the life and legacy of Dave Jolicoeur, Trugoy the Dove, Plug 2, Dave.
Our music is now available digitally on all streaming services now! We did it Dave!
