Gregory McLoughlin has ended the month of July in an incredible way as he just released his uplifting new track “Woody Guthrie.” The songwriter’s 13th single as a solo artist came paired with an exclusive video premiere on YouTube following his regular Monday Night Livestream.
McLoughlin is a multitalented artist based in Jersey City whose expertise as a bass player and songwriter makes him a man of many musical occupations. On top of writing and recording his own music as a solo artist and working as a freelance upright and electric bass player around the New York City area, McLoughlin also takes time to write music for other musicians and bands including BuzzUniverse, Julia Kirk, Beeman and Bannon, Ana Oh, Anthony Tamburro, Ross Sandler, and many more. McLoughlin has also been able to spread his love of music through live-streaming, performing virtual concerts every Monday Night at 8:00 PM on his YouTube Live page.
As fans now know after his latest live stream, McLoughlin’s recent single, named after and inspired by the legendary American Folk artist Woody Guthrie, is not only a dedication to the incredible musical powers that have come before but also declares that even though life is difficult, there is always a new day ahead with a silver lining. The track is a fast-paced, upbeat tune that includes a contagious melody allowing the words to match the instrumentals. Although the folk style and somewhat strange lyrics may not be for everyone, the single is worth a listen and is guaranteed to get even the stingiest critiques tapping their feet and grasping a message “that reflects the sound of Woody Guthrie.”
Gregory McLoughlin explains, “Woody Guthrie is a song about reconnecting with loved ones, finding your true self through pain and hardship, and realizing that there is such thing as a new day.” The single is now available to stream on YouTube, Spotify, and more!
No Fun, a Capital Region music venue on River Street in Troy, hosted five live electronic acts this past Saturday, July 29. The night included an hour-long set from Albany-native Atlas.B, alongside performances from fellow DJs Spike Right, SM Ink, Dito, and Waybach.
The self-proclaimed “hub for experimental music in the Capital Region” is a smaller-sized bar and music performance space owned by Downtown Albany bar Pint-Sized. No Fun has created a comfortable community vibe using multicolored string lights, wall murals, a low stage, and a spacious dance floor for crowd engagement.
Lighting Designer Riley Irving from Colonie’s Technical Video Inc. programmed a dual-screen stage set-up featuring LED wall tiles that cycled through kaleidoscopic color patterns as a live visual accompaniment to the music. Spike Right accompanied by Sherwood traded on-and-off the DJ setup for an hour of live D.I.Y. beats mixed with samples from popular rappers like Ice Spice.
By 9 p.m., No Fun was packed from stage-front to the side of the bar with concertgoers. The crowd was made up of Capital Region locals out for an evening of casual nightlife, alongside electronic dance music (EDM) fans who brought the party with rave glow wands and brightly colored outfits. Shuffling and freestyle moves took over the dance floor as other crowd members encouraged more people to join in and clap to the beat.
Dito and SM Ink continued the night with similar vibes of fresh beats intertwined with well-known hits. In contrast to the other performances, Waybach and Atlas.B have a deep bass and funk vibe. The pair have previously collaborated with singles “Life is So Hard” and “All Out of Time.” Altas.B not only performed previously released songs but also experimented with new mixes and techniques using Ableton Live.
The variety and creativity of each DJ set refreshed the crowd and kept the good energy flowing throughout the evening, with dancing only increasing with every passing hour. Listen to Altas.B’s newest single, “Don’t Look Back,” released on July 20, 2023, on all major platforms.
For information on future shows at No Fun, visit their website at NoFunTroy.com.
Jazz Is Dead is set to continue its 25th Anniversary Tour with the “Darkness Falls & Seasons Change” Tour which includes a stop at Patchogue Theatre on Nov. 29. Renowned for creative and intricate jazz interpretations of Grateful Dead songs, Jazz is Dead will also finish off its commemoration of Wake of the Flood with several shows in August.
Created in 1998 by former Santana and Weather Report bassist Alphonso Johnson, the group has released four albums throughout its lifespan. Johnson is joined by Steve Kimock (guitar), Pete Lavezzoli (drums), and Bobby Lee Rodgers (guitar). Together, the group not only expertly honors the artistic tradition of The Dead, but also reinvents classic tracks to provide an unparalleled listening experience.
In familiar Dead fashion, Jazz Is Dead looks to put together varied, unique, and diverse set lists for each performance as part of Wake of the Flood. The tour will feature two performances at each venue, with shows starting back up on August 1 in San Francisco, California.
The “Darkness Falls and Season Change” Tour is set to feature 13 shows, opening on Nov. 29 in Patchogue and closing on Dec. 15 in Columbia, South Carolina. Visit here for more details and information.
Upcoming Shows
’The Days Between’ and Beyond….
8.1 & 8.2 Great American Music Hall – San Francisco CA
8.4 & 8.5 The Hamilton – Washington DC
8.6 Big Top – St Louis MO
8.8. & 8.9 WOW Hall – Eugene OR
8.11 & 8.12 Alberta Rose Theatre – Portland OR
8.13.23 The Crocodile – Seattle WA
‘Darkness Falls & Seasons Change’ Tour…
11.29 Patchogue Theatre – Patchogue NY
11.30 Newton Theater – Newton NJ
12.1 XL Live – Harrisburg PA
12.2 Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall – Pittsburgh PA
12.3 House of Blues – Cleveland OH
12.5 Memorial Hall – Cincinnati OH
12.6 Mercury Ballroom – Louisville KY
12.7 Egyptian Room at Old National Centre – Indianapolis IN
12.8 Copernicus Center – Chicago IL
12.10 Queen Elizabeth Theatre (QET) – Toronto (CAN)
If you are someone who is closer to 50 than you are to 25, chances are really good that you have listened to Foreigner, either on your own accord or thanks to friends or maybe parents. Were you riding around in your friend’s Trans-Am with your Aqua-Net glazed hair standing pat as “Juke Box Hero” filled the summer air? Maybe you were driving your 5.0 Mustang around with the cheerleading captain in the passenger seat, singing along to “I Wanna Know What Love Is.” Regardless, you have the memories, and you need not be embarrassed.
Originally formed in 1977, Foreigner has had their time in the limelight. Now 46 years later, the band had decided to Rev on The Red Line for one more time, as they brought their Farewell Tour to Darien Lake Amphitheater on July 28.
While the band has seen its share of members come and go, including founding members, Mick Jones has stood the test of time as the lone original member. Along with Rochester native Lou Gramm, Jones formed Foreigner with Ian McDonald (of King Crimson), Al Greenwood, Dennis Elliot, and Ed Gagliardi. The band’s name was decided based on citizenship. With three Brits and three Americans, at least half of the band would be foreigners no matter where they were playing.
in 1977, Foreigner’s self-titled album was released and would be the first of 4 consecutive releases to go 5x platinum. “Feels Like First Time” and “Cold as Ice” would help make Mick Jones and crew a household name for years to come. The following year Double Vision peaked at number three on the charts and gave us “Hot Blooded” the title track, which became a number two hit.
Into the 80s, Foreigner continued to have huge success with hits like “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero,” and the powerful ballads “Waiting For a Girl Like You” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Songs that have stood the test of time, just as 78-year-old Mick Jones has.
Opening up for Foreigner are Canadian rockers, Loverboy. With hits like “Turn Me Loose” and “Working For The Weekend,” Loverboy is no slouch in the arena rock business and are members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
With nine studio albums to their credit, Mike Reno and the rest of Loverboy have been on and off for the past 30 years, touring with REO Speedwagon, Styx, Journey, Night Ranger, and Pat Benatar/Neil Giraldo over this time.
Tonight, though, Loverboy and Foreigner blew the tent of Darien Lake Amphitheater like it was 1985 all over again. Starting around 7:30 to an already packed house, Mike Reno and crew played exactly what the crowd came for. Hit after hit resonated with the crowd of fans that most likely owned cassette tapes of both bands and donned denim jackets 24/7.
Starting with 1987’s “Notorious,” Reno hit the ground running hard and continued for nine more songs, finishing up with “Turn Me Loose” and “Everybody’s Working For The Weekend.” While they never had a number-one song or album, Loverboy made their mark on the music world and songs continue to be played and enjoyed by younger generations, as well as original fans.
Loverboy setlist: Notorious, Lucky Ones, Queen of the Broken Hearts, Take Me to the Top, The Kid is Hot Tonight, Heaven in Your Eyes, Lovin’ Every Minute of It, Hot Girls in Love, Turn Me Loose, Working for the Weekend.
Rocking the stage at 9 p.m., Foreigner took the stage without Mick Jones. They were fired up, though, and ready to go as they opened up with “Double Vision,” “Head Games,” and “Cold as Ice.” Sadly, while this is the Farewell Tour, Mick Jones will be a game-time decision for most stops on the tour, as he battles health issues that have limited his stage time since 2012.
Even without the only remaining member, Kelly Hansen and the rest of the band kick some serious ass as it “Feels Like The First Time” with every show. Hard guitar riffs, solid drums, and vocals that bring a smile to Lou Gramm’s face are all part of what makes Foreigner the recognizable band they are.
After the band finishes “Girl on The Moon,” Hansen addresses the modern issue of AI as it pertains to ‘art’ and associated topics. Clearly annoyed by so many who utilize computer-generated pieces of AI, he makes sure the fans know that this show is 100% live, with no use of AI whatsoever. Vocals are actually sung, and all the backing sounds are made right before our eyes. Just like the old days, we all remember.
Going back to the memories mentioned before, this Hansen touches on that as they finish up a three song acoustic set. Mentions that while there are a handful of fans under the age of 40, the fans over 40 have the memories to last a lifetime. Music without AI, enjoying a full show without phones, and the joy of cassette tapes. “How many of those under 40 remember rolling up a cassette tape with a pencil?” Those are memories that the under-40 crowd won’t get or appreciate, and this feels like the first time they are hearing the song, like the song they released 46 years prior, “Feels Like the First Time.”
As the night goes on, the crowd is getting more and more active, with fans dancing through the aisles and spilling their $18 can of beer, singing along with every word. As “Juke Box Hero” begins, the beer spiller is escorted to the exit, and the fans go nuts as they await the “standing in the rain…” opening lyric. On stage, however, there is no Kelly Hansen. Spotlights direct fans to the soundboard area, about halfway to the lawn seats. There stands Hansen strapped to a rising pedestal and about 30 feet above the crowd. Someone put a quarter in the jukebox, and Kelly Hansen is now the hero they wanted.
For 46 years, Foreigner has stood the test of time. They have sold countless albums, download after download, and thousands of cassettes rolled up with number two pencils. They have been a recognizable voice for a generation that drank water from the hose and lived to talk about it. They get played at thousands of weddings and proms every year, and yet they are not in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For 46 years, the band that brought Lou Gramm and Mick Jones together is saying goodbye on this Farewell Tour and blowing the roofs off venues one last time. Do you have your tickets yet? Polish the Trans-Am, put on the leather pants one more time, pop side A of Double Vision in the cassette deck, and cruise on down to your local Ticketmaster outlet to get your tickets. Better yet, here is a shortcut.
Setlist: Double Vision, Head Game, Cold as Ice, Waiting For a Girl Like You, Dirty White Boy, When it Comes to Love (acoustic), Girl on the Moon (acoustic), Say You Will (acoustic), Feels Like the First Time, Urgent, Keyboard solo, Drum Solo, Juke Box Hero, I Want to Know What Love Is, Hot Blooded
Seven great bands will perform for free from Aug. 3-5 at Shepard Park in Lake George for the Rockin For Ronald Benefit Concert supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities.
The benefit shows will help Krantz Cottage, the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat location. It is for families whose children are experiencing serious illnesses and can house up to two families at a time for stays as long as five days.
Two bands will perform on Thursday and Friday and three on Saturday. Admission to all shows is free, and vendors will be on hand with beverages and food for sale. Kicking off the event on Aug. 3 from 6-7:10 p.m. is Across the Pond, who has been performing the music of The Beatles in the Northeast since 2008. Also performing from 7:30-9:30 are The Accents, a high-energy dance band that has been a staple in the Capital Region for many years. Featuring three powerhouse vocalists, a dynamic rhythm section, and powerful horns, they cover all your favorite Motown, dance, pop, and classic rock songs. They are also one of the first groups to be inducted into the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame and to be nominated for top dance band. Following the music is a spectacular fireworks show.
The next day, Aug. 4, starts from 6-7:10 p.m. with The Newells, a family band that includes well-known keyboard/guitar player and vocalist Jonathan Newell, his wife Jennifer, their teenage sons Brandon and Evan, and a great rhythm section. They cover music from the 60s-80s, including music by Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Hornsby, and 10,000 Maniacs. Ending the night from 7:30-9:30 p.m. is Skeeter Creek, a five-piece Americana band blending their variants of country, folk, bluegrass, and rock, ranked among the best of the new and upcoming alternative artists. They have each toured with some of the biggest names in the industry and won several awards.
Skeeter Creek.
The final day, Aug. 5, has three acts, starting from 4-5:40 p.m. with The Schmooze. The band has been one of the region’s premier party bands for the past two decades, getting the party rocking with their versions of rock, pop, dance, and country hits that will have the crowd dancing and singing along. The Ultimates, a fairly new band from Saratoga, plays from 6-7:10 p.m., featuring members from Bad Cheaperones and Dealt the Blues.
Ending the Rockin For Ronald benefit concert is Classic Rock Legends Live in Concert from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Formed by Albany native Gary Weinlein, the performance includes him as the Doors’ Jim Morrison, as well as recreates the music, the look, and the energy of the British Invasion (Eric Clapton) and American rock legends (Linda Ronstadt, Stevie Nicks and Ann Wilson of Heart).
Drew Jacobs, a Comedy Musician from Latham released his fifth CD, Get Your Ha-Ha’s Out! Recorded live at The Linda, WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio in Albany, the album is a brilliant mix of witty stand-up and original songs.
Drew Jacobs first saw commercial success in 2001 when “Santa Claus is Coming To Rock You” aired on the nationally syndicated Dr. Demento Radio Show. Since then, Jacobs released more albums, including Easy Listening For The Hard of Hearing, I’m Allergic To My Job, and more. His latest release, Get Your Ha-Ha’s Out!, seamlessly blends stand-up comedy and original songs.
“I write what makes me laugh: relationships, modern society and life as a babyboomer,” Jacobs wrote on his website. He also listed his musical influences, such as The Beatles, Arlo Guthrie, Weird Al Yankovic, and more.
Get Your Ha-Ha’s Out! is an excellent showcase of Drew Jacob’s talent for both comedy and music. Jacobs managed to produce an album that is both funny and insightful. Moreover, there is something on the album for all listeners to enjoy.
When Culture Club burst onto the scene in the early 80s, new wave music was the new big thing. Synthesizers, flashy attire, neon lights, and new sounds were all the rage in music and Boy George knew how to play the game well. Always known as a flashy dresser, Boy George and Culture Club became icons in the new wave genre. Now, 40 years later, the music style is making a new splash and of course one of the originals is right there again, as they bring The Letting It Go Show to Darien Lake on July 29. Riding the waves on the tour are Howard Jones and Berlin.
With rain showers going on for the early part of the day, and more in the forecast, Darien Lake Amphitheater is slow to fill as Howard Jones takes the stage for a 40-minute set. A flashy dresser in his own right, Jones comes out in classic 80s attire consisting of a black suit with a t-shirt underneath, Don Johnson would be proud. Jones belts out hits such as “No One is to Blame,” “Everlasting Love,” and “Like to Get To Know You Well” as diehard fans from yesteryear sing along with him.
Following up Jones was Berlin, who had some success with a song from some movie with Maverick and Goose. Additionally, Terri Nunn and her bandmates have put out nine studio albums since 1979, when Nunn joined the band for the first time as lead singer. While they never tore up the charts, Berlin did have their biggest, and ultimately last, big hit in 1986’s Top Gun, “Take My Breath Away.”
Like Howard Jones and Culture Club, Berlin’s sound was in the new wave genre and influenced by sounds coming over from Germany and much of Western Europe at the time. Tweak some keyboard notes, add a little more synth-pop to it, and presto, you have your own style.
Finishing up the night was the iconic and poignant Boy George with Culture Club. With iconic sound, looks, and creativity, Boy George is welcomed to the stage standing atop a small staircase flanked by two drum kits, casually outfitted with stereotypical baggy and bright clothing.
Joining him on stage were the two drummers, two dancers/backup vocalists, a saxophonist, two bassists, and a keyboardist. Just like the glory days, Boy George puts on an eclectic show, with everyone on stage taking part in the production. The two dancers provide backing vocals throughout the set, as well as both strut their stuff at the front of the stage later in the set. Equally amazing job by both, and the crowd made them aware.
Going through the set, it was noticeably more mellow than the classic sounds of Culture Club, which provided a little more upbeat mix. During “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?” the song almost seemed dragged out as Boy George took his time and made it more of a story. It was very reminiscent of “The Crying Game” from the early 90s which was a solid rendition.
Regardless of the sounds you hear today or what it may have sounded like 40 years ago, this tour with Boy George & Culture Club, Howard Jones, and Berlin is the perfect blend of original new wave artists as a new generation is getting cultured in ‘old people music.’
Funk and soul group The Motet announce their 2023 Fall tour, a 28-city journey, with three stops in New York, introducing the band’s new lead singer Sarah Clarke to fans and audiences nationwide.
With the tour spanning from Sept. 9 through Dec. 3, the Denver-based ensemble is excited to bring Clarke along with the rest of the crew: Dave Watts, Joey Porter, Garrett Sayers, Ryan Jalbert, and Drew Sayers.
Clarke is a vocalist and songwriter from Portland, Oregon, known for her powerful voice and widespread range of recognition through her talent and performances. Having toured in the past with bands such as Dirty Revival and San Francisco-based soul psych-rock band Con Brio, Clarke brings immense experience and ability to the veteran group.
As for The Motet, the band formed over two decades ago, blending funk, rock, soul, and jazz into their extensive discography.
Coming off the release of their tenth studio album All Day in January, the band continues to find new, innovative ways to expand their music horizon. Additionally, The Motet believes the upcoming tour and the incorporation of Clarke into the group will make for more excitement.
Musically, we [The Motet] are a great fit, I feel pushed to perform at the top of my game because I know they are going to bring it every night. Interpersonally, we gel wonderfully and it’s been a true pleasure to get to know them.”
– Sarah Clarke
Performing six headlining slots at Red Rocks, sets at festivals such as Bonnaroo, Bottlerock, Electric Forest, and countless sell-out shows, the group ensures that their upcoming Fall tour will be yet another amazing experience for fans and the ensemble.
Concert Schedule & Ticket Information
Shows in New York will be bold, as The Motet will perform at the Fire Lights Festival in Sherman, NY Sept. 8-10, Oct. 8 in Albany, and Oct. 12 in Pawling.
The Sept. 9 and Sept. 16 shows will be a part of the Fall tour while also being included in their respective festival schedules.
For tickets, visit the band’s website themotet.com.
9/8-10 – Sherman, NY | Fire Lights Festival 9/15-17 – Greenfield, MA | Wormtown Festival 9/20 – Virginia Beach, VA | Elevation 27 9/21 – Roanoke, VA | 5 Points Music Sanctuary 9/22 – High Point, NC | Cohab Space 9/23 – Pelham, TN | Subterranea Fest @ The Caverns 9/28-10/1 – Lake Perris, CA | Same Same But Different Fest 10/5 – Leesburg, VA | Tally Ho Theater 10/6 – Darlington, MD | Ramble Festival 10/7 – Asbury Park, NJ | The Stone Pony 10/8 – Albany, NY | Lark Hall 10/11 – Rutherford, NJ | The Williams Center 10/12 – Pawling, NY | Daryl’s House 10/13 – Hampton Beach, NH | Wally’s 10/14 – Portland, ME | Aura 10/27 – Fort Collins, CO | Washington’s 10/28 – Boulder, CO | Boulder Theater 10/31 – Frisco, CO | 10 Mile Music Hall 11/8 – Kansas City, MO | recordBar 11/9 – Peoria, IL | Kenny’s Westside 11/10 – Chicago, IL | Park West 11/11 – Minneapolis, MN | Amsterdam Bar and Hall 11/12 – Omaha, NE | Slowdown 11/29 – Fayetteville, AR | George’s Majestic Lounge 11/30 – Oklahoma City, OK | Tower Theatre 12/1 – Dallas, TX | Deep Ellum Art Co 12/2 – Austin, TX | The Mohawk 12/3 – Houston, TX | Last Concert Cafe
Declan McKenna, the enigmatic and thought-provoking indie-pop sensation, set the stage ablaze with two back-to-back shows in New York City as part of his “The Big Return” tour. On June 20, he graced the iconic Brooklyn Steel venue with his infectious energy and magnetic presence, captivating the audience with his genre-defying sound and heartfelt lyrics. The anticipation was palpable as fans eagerly awaited Declan’s performance, knowing they were in for an unforgettable night of music and connection.
The following evening, June 21, found Declan at Webster Hall in Manhattan, where he continued to weave his magic, leaving the crowd mesmerized by his electrifying performance. With each song, Declan’s authenticity and vulnerability shone through, forging an unbreakable bond between him and his adoring fans. These two shows were a testament to his undeniable talent and his ability to create an intimate and unforgettable experience for his audience.
Declan McKenna, the rising indie-pop sensation hailing from the UK, is making waves with his captivating blend of thought-provoking lyrics, infectious melodies, and undeniable charisma. With a musical journey that started at a young age, Declan’s eclectic upbringing exposed him to a wide range of influences, from classic rock to punk and indie music. This diverse palette has shaped his unique sound and sets him apart in the industry.
Declan burst onto the scene with his breakout single “Brazil” in 2015, which earned him widespread acclaim and attention for his sharp social commentary and clever songwriting. His debut album, What Do You Think About The Car? released in 2017, further solidified his position as a talented singer-songwriter with a distinctive voice.
Known for his insightful and introspective lyrics, Declan fearlessly addresses topics ranging from politics and societal issues to personal reflections on love and self-discovery. His ability to combine catchy pop hooks with meaningful storytelling has won the hearts of fans worldwide.
With each subsequent release, including the singles “British Bombs” and “Beautiful Faces,” Declan continues to captivate audiences and expand his musical horizons. His sophomore album, Zeros, released in 2020, showcased a more experimental and ambitious sound, further cementing his status as a genre-defying artist.
In addition to his musical prowess, Declan’s magnetic stage presence and engaging live performances have earned him a dedicated and enthusiastic fanbase. As Declan McKenna continues to evolve as an artist with recent hits such as “Sympathy”, he reaffirms his status as an exciting force in the music scene, capturing hearts with his authenticity, vulnerability, and undeniable talent.
With his finger on the pulse of the issues that resonate with today’s youth, Declan’s music speaks to a generation, making him a relevant and essential voice in the modern music landscape.
Declan McKenna’s electrifying performances at Brooklyn Steel and Webster Hall in New York City were nothing short of exhilarating. At Brooklyn Steel, a fan brought a stuffed Kermit the Frog plushie dressed as Declan, adding a whimsical touch to the show. During “Why Do You Feel So Down,” Declan took Kermit from the fan and playfully placed it on the speaker behind him. Later, during “Rapture,” he playfully threw Kermit into the air during a guitar breakdown, seamlessly blending fun and artistry.
Declan’s boundless energy was infectious throughout the shows. He shed his suit jacket, fully immersing himself in the music, and asked the crowd if they wanted to dance before launching into “Isombard.” The response was overwhelming, with fans flailing and dancing passionately in the back of the crowd and pressing against the barricade up front, trying to get as close to Declan as possible.
During “Sympathy,” the opener Eli Smart and his band joined Declan, playing tambourines and creating a church gospel choir vibe that had the crowd singing along with fervor. Declan’s skills on the keyboard were reminiscent of a piano virtuoso, adding another layer of talent to his already impressive performance.
The encores were equally electrifying, with Declan taking off his shirt while keeping on his tie, exuding feral rockstar vibes. His cover of “All Things Must Pass” by George Harrison showcased his guitar prowess, and during the guitar solo, he ventured off the stage, held up by the crowd in a moment of sheer rock ‘n’ roll energy.
The Webster Hall show was equally exhilarating, with Declan impressively leaping from piano to tambourine and back during “Isombard.” The crowd turned into a choir during the chorus of “Make Me Your Queen,” elevating the song’s emotional impact. Instead of the planned cover, Declan surprised the audience with “I’m the Man, That Will Find You,” by Connan Mockasin showcasing his versatility as an artist.
As the second encore began with “British Bombs,” Declan took the energy to a whole new level, executing one-legged spin jumps and rolling on the ground while passionately belting out the last chorus. The show ended with Declan being handed bouquets from the adoring crowd, which he graciously accepted and posed triumphantly.
Declan McKenna’s performances were nothing short of extraordinary, leaving the audience in awe of his talent, charisma, and sheer passion for his craft. With each song, he demonstrated his prowess as a musician and captivated the crowd with his authentic and unforgettable performances
Declan McKenna Setlist: The Kids Don’t Wanna Come Home, Beautiful Faces, You Better Believe!!!, Be An Astronaut, My House, Why Do You Feel So Down, Humongous, Isombard, Daniel; You’re Still a Child, Rapture, Make Me Your Queen, Paracetamol, Twice Your Size, The Key to Life on Earth, Brazil, Sympathy
Brooklyn Steel Encore: All Things Must Pass (George Harrison cover), British Bombs
Webster Hall Encore: I’m the Man, That Will Find You (Connan Mockasin cover), British Bombs
Stay up to date with Declan on socials and any updates from the tour here.
August in Central New York is lauded by many in the area as “State Fair Season.” While the New York State Fair once again boasts an impressive musical lineup, there are plenty of other great performances to take in this month leading up to the fair.
David Wax Museum.
David Wax Museum – Aug. 3 at 443 Social Club and Lounge
Described as “Mexo-Americana”, and known for blending folk and roots rock styles, the husband and wife duo bring their dynamic sounds to the 443 Social Club and Lounge on Aug. 3. The duo features David Wax (vocals, jarana) and Sue Slezak (fiddle, vocals, quijada). The band broke through in 2010 after a set at the infamous Newport Folk Fest and they have been turning heads ever since. They are currently touring in support of 2023’s release You Must Change Your Life. As an added bonus, the show takes place at the delightfully intimate 443 Social Club and Lounge, Syracuse’s favorite listening room.
Tickets start at $20 with music starting at 7:00 pm.
Cooper Greer – August 4 at Tin Rooster, Turning Stone Casino
Sweet country music sounds will echo throughout the Exit 33 music complex at Turning Stone Casino on Aug. 4, as rising country star Cooper Greer performs at the Tin Rooster. The North Carolina native has drawn comparisons to Johnny Cash, Dirks Bentley, and Chris Young. The band is currently embarking on a cross-country tour, which will also feature a stop at Binghamton’s famous Spiedie Fest on Aug. 5.
Music starts at 10:30 pm with a $10 cover charge.
Frank White Experience – August 11 at Westcott Theater
Regarded as the genre leader in hip-hop tribute bands, The Frank White Experience come to the Westcott Theater on Aug. 11. Drawing comparisons to other highly regarded tribute acts such as The Dark Star Orchestra and Badfish, the Syracuse band pays hip-hop tribute like no other, with complete live instrumentation. The set will deliver listeners a top-end tribute to 90s hip-hop pioneers such as Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, as well as many others. The bill also features a slew of other Syracuse talent, including Seth Marcel, Jus One, DJ Tes One, and Ivan the Great.
Music starts at 8:00 pm with tickets starting at $20.
The SteelDrivers – August 17 at Center for the Arts of Homer
Nashville-based bluegrass favorites The SteelDrivers return to Central New York for a performance at the Center for the Arts of Homer on Aug. 17. Once fronted by country music sensation, Chris Stapleton, the band has released an impressive musical catalog with 2015’s release The Muscle Shoals Collection earning the band the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album.
Danielle Ponder – August 30 at Chevy Court Stage, NYS Fair
Rochester native and rising R&B star Danielle Ponder brings her soulful sounds to the New York State Fair for a free show on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Ponder, long known for her years as a social activist and for her work in the Rochester public defender’s office, has been turning heads musically since 2018 when she decided to devote herself full time to music. She is presently touring behind her latest release, Some of Us Are Brave, which was described by NPR as being “anthemic while compassionate; soulful, while bold and strong.” Ponder continues her ascent to stardom, having recently performed at the 2023 Newport Folk Festival, where she turned many heads. You won’t want to miss this one.
Ponder takes the Chevy Court Stage at 1:00 pm and the set is included with your fair admission.
