Lewiston, NY is a beautiful little hamlet that backs up to the mighty Niagara River and not far from the infamous falls that bring in millions of visitors every year. ArtPark is a picturesque State Park in Lewiston, that sits atop the gorge of the Niagara, that houses a spectacular amphitheater which hosts numerous events throughout the season. After my first visit there last year, I said to myself that the venue kind of looks like a place for a church retreat of sorts. Not that I am a religious person, but that was one my first thoughts. Here we are, about a year later, as Lauren Daigle bringst her religious based music to the venue that I saw had retreat vibes.
Starting the night off around 7:30 was Josh Garrels. Playing for about 30 minutes, Garrels immediately brought the crowd together with his smooth vocals as he preached through lyrics. A well rounded musician, he has been releasing music since 2001 and is a well regarded composer and writer, in addition to his singing.
Hitting the extra large pulpit AKA the stage around 840, the Lafayette, Louisiana native was welcomed with boisterous cheers from music fans as young as 3.
For nearly 90 minutes, she bounced around the stage telling stories as interludes to her songs, talking about how God got her through some anxiety riddled times during the pandemic, and reminiscing about her time in Guatemala.
The trip to Guatemala really touched Lauren, as she befriended Maria. Maria is a child, now 16, who due to reasons out of her control is now the matriarch of her family. It was this situation, as well as time in Kenya that has driven Lauren to create and really push Lauren Daigle | ChildFund. With this, fans can sponsor a child in need in selected countries.
While not a show I would normally choose to cover, my daughter convinced me to do this one, and I am glad I did. Lauren is a world class performer with a broad range of vocals that make you think of Pink, Adele, Shawn Colvin, with some hints of blues scattered about. Her stage presence was amazing, as she interacted with her band throughout the performance, kept the crowd involved and was waving to young folk in the front rows. The backdrop was a colorful piece that looked like a collection of unfinished latch hook projects. The colors and layers were perfect match for the lights used all night.
Joining Lauren on stage was her 11 piece band that was just as active as she. There were 2 percussionists, 3 person brass section, 3 dancers/backup vocalists, a bassist, guitarist, and a DJ to round out the sounds.
Songs, while religious based, weren’t all about ‘you need to listen to the word’ and ‘this is the way’. They all told stories about her life and how she got to where she is today. “Kaleidescope Jesus” is her take on finding God unusual spots and forms. Colors, shapes, movements, the results of an action. The setlist included “Thank God I Do,” “You’re All I’ll Take With Me,” “Rescue,” “St. Ferdinand,” “Tremble,” “Be Ok,” and “You Say.”
“St. Ferdinand” was not on her set list for this show, however after recent interview where the interviewer requested it, it was added. After the song, as she was talking, she realized the person was in the front row and immediately thanked him for actually showing up. Rumor has it that most people who say they will be at a show, don’t show up. Lauren was thrilled to not only see this person, but see them up front.
As the show concluded, Lauren played a 2 song encore of “Be Ok” and “You Say/How Can it Be”. The first encore was bone chilling as it was her poignant vocals backed with the pianist. The sounds echoed through the amphitheater like an empty chamber, a true testament to the power of her voice. Very award worthy.
Making music for over 10 years, Daigle is no stranger to those awards. 4 AMA’s for Contemporary Inspirational, 6 Billboards in Cristian Music categories, 11 GMA Dove Awards (Gospel Music Awards), and 2 Grammy’s. Very respectable career so far, and chances are good that the finish line is not in sight.
Her final song, a blend of 2 songs was powerful and moving. Belting out the lyrics, she stopped about half way through as the crowd took over and sang word for word and crystal clear. Nearly 6 minutes of playtime, fans were in tears and holding hands while swaying side to side. A perfect ending at the venue I thought was could host a religious retreat.
Learn more about Lauren Daigle and her charities, as well as the forthcoming Kaleidescope Tour.
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
Legendary blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa recently released a new song titled “Well, I Done Got Over It”. The track was originally released by Guitar Slim back in 1953. Bonamassa’s rendition is part of his upcoming Oct. 6 album Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. The project comes 20 years after the New York native’s breakthrough album Blues Deluxe.
Photo Credit: Robert Sutton
“Well, I Done Got Over It’ is a high-energy tune that perfectly captures all of the attitude and groove of classic blues-rock songs. Packed with the rich sounds of horns and capped off with an impressive guitar solo, the track showcases every ounce of Bonamassa’s artistic ability.
“My father introduced me to Guitar Slim a long time ago, back when I was a kid… He has such a velvety smooth voice, and he had such a way of delivering a song. We did a very British take on this Guitar Slim song, it’s like the Blues Breakers meets Guitar Slim meets Joe Bonamassa, Josh Smith and company”
Joe Bonamassa
Born in New Hartford but raised in Utica, Bonamassa discovered music at an early age. By the time he was 12, Bonamassa was traveling around the state playing various local shows. The guitarist made a name for himself off of debut 2000 album A New Day Yesterday, which reached the #9 spot Billboard Blues chart. From 2002-06 Bonamassa had five albums reach the Blues Top 10, including his 2003 effort Blues Deluxe.
Bonamassa’s new project will see the Grammy-nominated artist return to some of his original sources of inspiration. Blues Deluxe Vol. 2 features two new original songs as well as eight new covers. The album also gets contributions fromReese Wynans (keys), Calvin Turner (bass), Lamar Carter (drums), Kirk Fletcher (guitar), and Josh Smith (guitar).
“Well, I Done Got Over It” follows the release of the album’s previous single “Twenty-Four Hour Blues” which dropped back in June. The song is a rip-roaring interpretation of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s classic song which was released in 1974. Bonamassa’s version includes an inspired and passionate vocal and guitar performance.
“The outro guitar solo is incredible… It happened live on the floor and has some deep lines you’ve probably never heard Joe play before. The band is absolutely smoking, and Calvin Turner did an incredible String and Horn arrangement. Super proud of this one”
Guitarist Josh Smith
Bonamassa has a slew of performance dates during the Summer and Fall. Stops in New York include shows at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Here for album pre-orders and details. Check out here for tour tickets and additional information.
Summer 2023 U.S. Tour
August 2 – Vina Robles Amphitheatre – Paso Robles, CA
August 4 – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – Las Vegas, NV
August 5 – Eccles Theater – Salt Lake City, UT
August 6 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO
August 9 – Hollywood Bowl – Los Angeles, CA^
August 12 – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater – Wantagh, NY
August 13 – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – Bethel, NY
Fall 2023 U.S. Tour
October 23 – Memphis, TN – The Cannon Center
October 25 – Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
October 27 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theatre
October 28 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre At Sugar Land
October 29 – Austin, TX – ACL Live
November 1 – Fayetteville, AR – Walton Arts Center
November 3 – Little Rock, AR – Robinson Performance Hall
November 4 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre
November 5 – Oklahoma City, OK – Civic Center Music Hall
November 8 – Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Theater
November 10 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre
November 11 – St. Louis, MO – The Fabulous Fox
November 12 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Paramount Theatre
November 14 – Rochester, MN – Mayo Civic Center
November 15 – Rockford, IL – Coronado Performing Arts Center
November 17 – Fort Wayne, IN – Embassy Theatre
November 18 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre
November 19 – Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre
November 21 – Reading, PA – The Santander Performing Arts Center
November 22 – Providence, RI – Providence Performance Arts Center
November 24 – Springfield, MA – Symphony Hall
November 25 – Baltimore, MD – The Lyric
November 28 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theatre
November 30 – Sarasota, FL – Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Spafford is a band that deserves more: more fans, more coverage, and more respect. With a signature sound amphitheater-ready and a technical proficiency seldom heard in today’s music, the fact they haven’t reached greater heights yet is truly one of life’s simple mysteries. Hooked from the moment I first heard them in 2017, I’ve been singing their praises to anyone who will listen for years now. That being said, a recent fan post in the band’s “Spaffnerds” group got my blood boiling a bit. It read something to the effect of “Guys. Spafford is destroying the northeast right now and not a single jamblog is writing about it. WTF.” Having written about this band several times in the past, at first I took offense, but then I took it as a personal challenge to get these guys some more ink. So in a completely irrational, last second decision, I loaded up the car in Albany and made the two and half hour drive across state lines to catch Spafford’s headlining show at the Homestead in Morristown, New Jersey on Monday, July 10th.
Spafford brought weekend vibes to Morristown, NJ on Monday 7/10/23.
Having never been to the Homestead before, I initially found parking to be a bit of a situation. With the summer night life of Morristown hustling and bustling right through showtime, I ultimately ponied up at a nearby municipal garage. Following my ear, I knew exactly where to go once I stepped out of the car. That’s because you could hear Spafford’s opening reggae-styled cover of “Soul to Squeeze” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ firing up from almost a block away. The colorful and luscious guitar tone of Brian Moss’ custom ax, Raven, was like a beacon calling to everyone nearby, ‘lend us your ears and we’ll send you home happy.’ By the time the band landed on “Plans,” the entire outdoor patio was packed with people. Even the curiously vacant parking lot adjacent to the venue started filling with people who were at least interested enough to listen, but on the fence about paying for it.
Spafford fans made themselves at home in Morristown on 7/10/23.
Inside the Homestead was a completely different vibe. A combination of danceable and sweaty energy, the smell of chicken wings and comfort food, and more mesmerizing than anything, the sound. The high ceilings of the venue made Spafford sound huge. Admitted audiophiles, the band which consists of Brian Moss (guitar,vocals), Jordan Fairless (bass,vocals), Nick Tkachyk (drums,vocals), and Cory Schechtman (keybords), work tirelessly before every show to achieve peak tones in whatever room they’re playing; they always sound great on whatever stage you put them.
Originally formed in Arizona, the last few years have seen much of the band return to their east coast roots. With Moss growing up in Jersey, the show would take on a bit of a “hometown throwdown” feel. Close family and friends could be seen dancing along on the side of the stage, including Moss’ adorable little rock star, Henry, who appeared to be having a blast watching his dad shred into our third song of the night in “Todd’s Tots.” While I don’t know who Todd is, I do know this was the musical highlight of the opening set. Things would then get down right “untzy” then “reptilian” with a well-placed combination of “Funkenseven” that alligatored into the Jordan Fairless led “Salamander Song” to send the Morristown crowd dancing the whole way into set break at the Homestead.
Keyboardist Corey Schechtman played his first show with Spafford at this same venue in 2023.
Walking out for second set accompanied by music from Rage Against the Machine, you could just feel the boys were about to get down to some serious business. Launching into the nights only track from their most recent studio album, 2022’s Simple Mysteries, “Fake the Fate,” the dance party resumed almost instantly. Some fans expressing themselves by spinning in circles, showing their moves to drift away while the surging groove carried us straight into “Windmill,” one of the band’s most sought after originals. Perhaps the centerpiece of the show, Spafford let it all hang out here, tongues included. Sustaining those high notes for added emphasis, when Moss starts making unintentional stank face, you know things are going pretty good. People who were seeing the band for the first time simply could not believe what they were hearing. As Brian’s complicated guitarwork reached soaring new heights reminiscent of what you might hear in the peak of Phish’s “David Bowie,” one older gentleman near the soundboard commented how he hasn’t heard chops like that since his days of seeing Jerry.
So Raven: Spafford’s Brian Moss plays his custom ax in Morristown 7/10/23.
Exchanging rays of mental dues Accepting moods that new grooves proves A simple song, it has no cost Through this rif my troubles’ lost You’ve got me dreaming again Open my mind to a new way A long way from fine
-Lyrics from “Windmill”
Up next came another Fairless special with “Lonely,” a track that has continually showed itself to be one of the bands biggest jam vehicles. This exceptional rendition proved that true once again with Jordan crooning his heart out while the band stretched its legs into some beautiful type II territory. Keyboardist Corey Schechtman also really shinned here. Schechtman, who played his first Spafford gig at this same venue one year prior, has really settled into his role nicely; you can just see how much more confident he is now. With other-worldly skills dripping out of his fingertips, Schectman has the ability to completely change the direction the jam is going…and that’s usually for the better. Often locking eyes with Nick on drums, the two seemed to have formed a strong bond over this past year.
Spafford drummer Nick Tkachyk played Jersey in a jersey on 7/10/23.
Showing amazing musical maturity by building the groove up, then holding onto it until they have everyone’s undivided attention, imagine how difficult it must be to show this kind of restraint. Like driving a Ferrari through a 30mph school zone, Spafford’s patience has always been one of their biggest assets. They always seem to know just the right moment to step on the gas and when to let off of it. Closing the four song second set was our second cover of the night, a crowd-pleasing version of “Love Song,” as popularized by The Cure. It was only the second time they’ve played it this year.
Spafford bassist Jordan Fairless had his fingerprints all over the Morristown setlist on 7/10/23
With a hard 11pm curfew rapidly approaching, it was from here to “Eternity” as another Jordan led song was selected as the lone encore of the evening, capping off another stellar performance by a band that’s currently at the top of their game. Afterwards the guys could be seen hanging out by the merch table, signing posters and taking selfies with fans. Their approachability is yet another endearing quality.
While the high-flying bird band Goose is currently commanding most of the jam scene headlines, bubbling just under the surface is a whole litany of other amazing acts of the same genre. Right at the top has got to be Spafford. Using music as their weapon and perhaps benefitting from all the recent attention the improv community has been getting, we can only hope this band will get their big break soon. Worth every penny of the $20 ticket and worth traveling for every time I’ve seen them, these guys are the real deal. Real people with a real shot at achieving their dreams. Still finding the balance between touring life, raising toddlers, and writing new songs, these hardworking guys are putting it all on the line every time they go out there, both musically and personally. When I asked Moss point blank if filling amphitheaters is even what he wants, without hesitation he said, “Of course, that’s what I’m in this for. We’re here to take over the world.” A true rock n’ roll answer if there ever was one, well Mr. Moss, I believe you can do it and I believe in Spafford.
Spafford | July 10, 2023 | The Homestead | Morristown, New Jersey
Set 1: Soul to Squeeze*, Plans, Todd’s Tots, Funkenseven>Salamander Song
Set 2: Fake the Fate > Windmill, Lonely, Love Song **
Delaney Silvernell is known best in New York State for ascending from a Queensbury local to a sensational contestant on NBC’s The Voice. Delaney has made notable strides in her musical career since her debut at age 21.
Playing shows in Los Angeles and New York, Delaney has put her singer-songwriter skills on display, amassing over 350k streams on Spotify alone through her signature blend of pop and R&B. Five years – and many captivating singles – since the voice, Delaney is planning a Northeast Tour at the end of the summer, which will feature her newest EP, Blue Dream.
While Delaney Silvernell is currently an independent artist based in Los Angeles, her journey began many miles away. Originally from the Adirondack region of Queensbury, Delaney knew from a young age that music was her passion.
I’ve been a musician for as long as I can remember, and it doesn’t really feel like a conscious decision I made to become one. Music was really the only thing that fueled me and helped me make sense of the world around me. So, it seemed like my natural path.
Delaney Silvernell
Following her natural trajectory, Delaney moved away from her hometown at 17 to pursue her musical education, studying Songwriting at Berklee College of Music. After graduating in 2017, Delaney was immediately cast as a contestant on season 15 of NBC’s The Voice. Her audition immediately caught the attention of coach Kelly Clarkson. Primarily coached by Kelly Clarkson, Delaney was further coached on screen by music industry greats such as Mariah Carey, Adam Levine, and Thomas Rhett.
After Delaney’s debut at age 21, Delaney has spent the past few years crafting her own space in music. She has played shows in Los Angeles and New York, while independently releasing original music which has been widely successful – amassing over 350k streams on Spotify alone.
Delaney’s music explores her emotions in a real, raw way that captivate audiences with a combination of vulnerable lyrics and powerful vocals. She rides rebelliously on the borders of genres such as R&B/Soul, Pop, Alternative, Blues, and more as she doesn’t believe her artistry can be confined by the boarders of one category. Delaney tries to create music that gives people space to feel deeply and unapologetically, and find peace in those emotions. Such music is often created alongside those who support her musical growth.
I draw inspiration from my life experiences, as well as that of those around me. I find inspiration in sorting out complicated emotions, and truly hope my songs help others do the same. My creative process varies, but my creative team is a pretty consistent group of my friends, which makes it that much more fun.
Blue Dream
Delaney’s most recent EP, Blue Dream, features 4 songs ranging from folk-pop to soulful genres. The project has already been premiered at one of LA’s most famous venues, The Troubadour, and will be performed in multiple cities throughout New York State through Delaney’s upcoming Northeast Tour.
While each song featured in Blue Dream is a work of art in its own right, when asked about her favorite piece, Delaney described her favorite song as one that has truly come full circle.
It’s impossible to pick a favorite, because they all have a special place in my heart. I do love “Wildflower,” though, because it was such a unique process to create it. “Wildflower” originated as a poem I wrote during a sleepless night back in college. A few years later, I stumbled upon the lyrics with a whole new perspective on life, and was able to put them to music and grow the song into what it is today.
Upcoming Projects
Blue Dream is only the first of many ambitious projects Delany’s future holds. Delaney has already begun writing her first full length album, and plans to return to the studio to finish recording it following her tour at the end of the summer. In the meantime, she will be releasing a live album from her recent performance at one of Los Angeles’ most famous venues, The Troubadour.
Delaney’s successful singles and EPs hold promise for equally engaging full length albums. In her continuous journey of exploring complicated emotions, Delaney detailed one of her unreleased songs as one of the most difficult to write in her career.
My most difficult song to write is actually still unreleased. It’s called “Dark Side of the Moon,” and I co-wrote it with my friend and producer, Alisse Laymac. “Dark Side of the Moon,” details my healing process from self-sabotaging the good things in my life. Being honest about that and putting that feeling into words was difficult, but so healing and cathartic.
Tour Dates
Currently, Delaney Silvernell is building a tour around the following dates in New York State:
Additionally, Delaney is securing a date at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC in late August or early September, the date to be announced. She plans to visit other New England-area venues as well. Once all tour dates have been secured, an official press release will be announced.
Delaney’s authentic approach to music, alongside her captivating, soulful lyrics and sound truly make her one of a kind. Be sure to listen to her music on Spotify, and check out her website for more tour updates.
The West Side Tennis Club welcomed Weezer to Forest Hills in Queens with open arms this past Thursday night (July 13) for the SoCal quartet’s 22nd stop on a 30-date “Indie Rock Road Trip” summer tour that launched in Huntsville, Alabama on June 4. Dubbed the Indie Rock Road Trip, Weezer’s tour is divided into three legs, the first of which saw them link up with indie rockers Modest Mouse and Momma. Future Islands and Joyce Manor took over support duties for Rivers Cuomo and Co. at the Columbia, Maryland gig back on June 23, and tonight’s show marked the magical end to the tour’s second leg.
Rivers Cuomo of Weezer | Photo: Michael Dinger
One of NYC’s best concert venues – indoors or out – Forest Hills Stadium has a rich, storied history that is celebrating 100 years this season. Originally designed in the 1920s as the home of the U.S. Open tennis tournament, the Romanesque stadium and its grounds hosted 60 editions of the major tournament before it moved to its current home in Flushing Meadows in 1978. In the 1960s, the tennis club began booking concerts and attracted some of the most culturally significant artists of our generation – The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, to name just a few.
However, by 2011, the 14,000-capacity facility had fallen into a “crumbling ruin.” After narrowly escaping demolition, the stadium re-opened on August 28, 2013 with Mumford & Sons performing the inaugural concert (my wife and I were there!). Although the music that night was fantastic, the overall experience, not so much. But over the next four years, Forest Hills Stadium underwent multi-million dollar state-of-the-art renovations including optimized acoustics, patching up concrete exterior walls, old seats were removed and replaced, a permanent stage was installed, the concourse was redesigned and expanded to twice its original size, the General Admission central tennis courts were replaced and easier access to concessions and restrooms was provided, finally!
Scoreboard Marquee | Photo: Michael Dinger
Arriving early to guarantee a painless parking experience (parking is limited in the surrounding area), I also wanted to explore the stadium and its grounds ahead of the first opening act. After securing my media credential at the box office, I proceeded through the main entrance where I was greeted with a plethora of things to do, along with welcoming staff at every turn. Although the craft beer huts and local food eateries were tempting, I opted to walk the periphery of the cherished coliseum to discover for myself what had changed since my last visit nearly a decade ago. The answer, a lot!
A history buff, I was pleasantly surprised to see banners, plaques and artwork depicting the images of past rock iconswho played here. As I made my way to the bands’ merch table, I came upon a WFUV kiosk – a non-commercial radio station owned by Fordham University and an affiliate of National Public Radio (NPR) who presents Forest Hills Stadium’s live broadcasts – offering patrons free goodies such as stickers and beverage Koozies. An avid fan of all sports, it was also thrilling to witness the hanging banners of by gone tennis legends including Stan Smith, Althea Gibson, René Lacoste, Billie Jean King, Rod Laver and Arthur Ashe.
An hour after doors, Joyce Manor took the stage promptly at 6:00 pm. Despite the sweltering, 90-degree heat, the band formed in 2008 and hailing from Torrance, California did not seem to mind very much, if at all. Named after an apartment building that co-founder Barry Johnson would often pass by on his walks, as Joyce Manor’s pop-punk sound has evolved, their feverish fanbase has grown right alongside them.
Barry Johnson of Joyce Manor | Photo: Michael Dinger
Over the course of 30 minutes, the trio of Johnson (singer-songwriter, guitar), co-founder Chase Knobbe (guitar) and Matt Ebert (bass), who were also joined by touring musicians Neil Bertheir (acoustic guitar, synthesizer) and Neil Hennessy (drums), performed songs with inspiration drawn from emo acts like Weezer themselves. The band of thirtysomethings offered up tracks spanning four of their six studio albums, with the heaviest dose coming from 2014’s Never Hungover Again.
The showstopper, however, which incited a mosh pit (albeit short-lived) near stage left half-way through their pummeling set, was ripped from their sixth and most recent album 40 Oz. to Fresno (Epitaph Records) released in June of last year. Titled “NBTSA,” short for Never Be The Same Again, the number perfectly exemplified Joyce Manor’s signature blend of melodic guitar leads, rock-solid bass and driving drums in a no-filler, concise package.
In keeping with the strict, mandated curfew of 10:00 pm due to the stadium’s location within a residential neighborhood, the party kept rolling along in a timely fashion. At 6:55 pm, next up were Future Islands, a synth-driven pop band based in Baltimore, Maryland. Formed in 2006 and fronted by Samuel T. Herring, the quartet is rounded out by Gerrit Welmers (keyboards and programming), William Cashion (bass, acoustic and electric guitars) and Michael Lowry (drums).
Future Islands | Photo: Michael Dinger
Ahead of tonight, I knew very little about Future Islands, other than their live performance of “Seasons (Waiting on You)” on the Late Show with David Letterman, the lead single from their fourth studio album (Singles, 2014), became the television show’s most-viewed video on their YouTube page. But after tonight, which included witnessing firsthand a live performance of the same song, I knew much, much more.
Backed by a supremely talented band, I was most blown away by Herring and his stage persona. Despite the heat, he was dressed head-to-toe in black, and it did not take long for him to become drenched in his own sweat. Once Future Island’s first song of the night kicked in, “For Sure” from 2020’s As Long as You Are, Herring feverishly jumped, kicked, spun and fist pumped his way from one end of the stage to the other, repeatedly, and for all 13 songs in the emotionally thrilling set. When Herring finally stopped to catch his breath, he engaged directly with the audience members, staring intently while continuing to gesture with his arms and hands in continual flowing motions. I would later learn that Future Islands was originally meant to be a performance art piece, which completely makes sense to me now.
Herring’s vocal delivery is also something of a marvel. Despite being diagnosed with Reinke’s edema (vocal cord swelling) nearly 10 years ago, his delivery is striking and distinct. Along with an extensive background in hip-hop and rapping that began as a teenager, a solo act that he engages in via the moniker Hemlock Ernst, it is also not uncommon for a loud, stadium-shaking growl to be thrown into his vocal recipe.
Weezer Fans | Photo: Michael Dinger
With the time approaching 8:30 pm, the stage roadies were putting the final touches on the stage, most of which was being performed behind the gigantic opaque curtain swallowing the stage ahead of the big reveal. Making my way back into the pit with my fellow photographers for the third time, Toto’s “Africa” came across the stadium’s PA system. If you are not an avid fan of Weezer, you might ask “Where’s the connection?” Long story short, back in 2018, the two bands released reciprocal covers of each other’s hits, with Weezer covering the perennial 1982 classic and Toto covering “Hash Pipe” from 2001’s The Green Album. Then suddenly, the curtain dropped and it was time to hit the road!
Brian Bell of Weezer | Photo: Michael Dinger
One by one, our lovable, geeky power-pop kingpins entered stage left. Brian Bell (rhythm guitar, keyboards) led the charge, followed closely by Cuomo who was sporting his staple Buddy Holly-esque retro specs. Bringing up the rear were Scott Shriner (bass) and Patrick Wilson (drums), the latter taking to his stool atop an elevated riser. The Los Angeles foursome played in front of an impressive and clever set design built to resemble a stage-sized car dashboard, complete with a steering wheel emblazoned with a Weezer logo, a radio with a tuner and a volume knob. And if that wasn’t cool enough on its own, video graphics were displayed across the massive windshield and a rearview mirror.
Rivers Cuomo of Weezer | Photo: Michael Dinger
The nostalgia shifted into high gear with the adrenaline inducing “My Name is Jonas” from 1994’s The Blue Album. A smooth segue transported the stadium to “Beverly Hills” (Make Believe, 2005), with Cuomo substituting the song’s closing lyrics with an homage to the neighborhood of “Forest Hills.” There was also a special guest appearance for two songs from 1996’s Pinkerton – “El Scorcho” and “I Just Threw Out the Love of My Dreams” – as the indie rock solo project of singer-songwriter Lindsey Jordan (better known as Snail Mail) joined Cuomo atop the dashboard.
Scott Shriner of Weezer | Photo: Michael Dinger
For a show that could have lasted hours longer with all the career-spanning material that Weezer has to offer – a three decade discography comprising 15 studio albums, and as per Cuomo during his introduction to “Falling for You,” 672 songs! – they did a wonderful job of gifting their fans the classics (“Undone – The Sweater Song,” “Island in the Sun,” “Say It Ain’t So,” “Hash Pipe” and “Surf Wax America”), deeper cuts outside of their studio catalog (“Susanne” and “Blast Off!”) and newer material (“All My Favorite Songs”), including a couple of tracks from two of their four seasonal inspired EPs released in 2022, “Thank You and Good Night” from SZNZ: Summer and “Run, Raven, Run” from SZNZ: Autumn.
Patrick Wilson of Weezer | Photo: Michael Dinger
The festive evening closed with a three-song encore capped by fan favorite “Buddy Holly.” With Cuomo perched at the edge of the stage apron, he soaked in the applause raining down on him from the sold-out house engulfing him on all sides. After several moments, before the band took their final bow, he ripped off his shirt and hurled it into the front rows before throwing down the signature “W” hand sign. And with that, we had all been officially Weezer’d, and better for it. Now it was time to take it easy brah.
Up next for Weezer is a trek to Naeba, Japan for Fuji Rock on July 30, followed by shows in Osaka and Tokyo on August 1 and 2, respectively. Then, it’s on to West Vancouver, Canada for the Ambleside Music Festival on August 19. The next night, August 20, the third leg of the Indie Rock Road Trip resumes in Auburn, Washington where the boys will be accompanied by Spoon and White Reaper as opening support.
Forest Hills Stadium | Photo: Michael Dinger
The 2023 summer tour culminates at PETCO Park in San Diego, California on September 3, at which time the band will take a much needed rest to refill their collective gas tank. And in case you missed the Forest Hills Stadium show, or just cannot get enough of these darling alt-rockers, Weezer will be traveling back to the tri-state area for an appearance at the Sea.Hear.Now Festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey on September 17.
Joyce Manor Setlist: Heart Tattoo > Beach Community > Gotta Let It Go > Ashtray Petting Zoo > Don’t Try > Schley > Falling in Love Again > NBTSA > Big Lie > Victoria > Constant Headache > Christmas Card > Catalina Fight Song
Future Islands Setlist: For Sure > Hit the Coast > Plastic Beach > Peach > Walking Through That Door > Light House > A Dream of You and Me > Before the Bridge > Long Flight > King of Sweden > Seasons (Waiting on You) > Vireo’s Eye > Little Dreamer
Weezer Setlist: My Name Is Jonas > Beverly Hills > Return to Ithaka > The Good Life > Pork and Beans > Pink Triangle > El Scorcho > I Just Threw Out the Love of My Dreams > Blast Off! > Undone – The Sweater Song > Falling for You > Susanne > Only in Dreams > The Greatest Man That Ever Lived (Variations on a Shaker Hymn) > Island in the Sun > Perfect Situation > All My Favorite Songs > Say It Ain’t So > Run, Raven, Run > Hash Pipe > Thank You and Good Night > Encore: The Waste Land > Surf Wax America > Buddy Holly
The Binghamton Philharmonic is set to kick off its free summer concert series, Concerts in Every Corner with four beautiful and unique performances by the Empire Saxophone Quartet. The series will begin on July 20th at 11:20 AM with performances by the quartet stretching into the 21st.
The Binghamton Philharmonic is no stranger to introducing their community to rich and tasteful music as the group presents an annual series of classical, pops, and chamber music concerts in Downtown Binghamton and throughout Broome County. Concerts in Every Corner will feature the Quartet in four locations throughout the city including the Ross Park Zoo, Columbus Park, Cheri A. Lindsey Memorial Park, and Fairview Park.
Bringing home the Empire Saxophone Quartet is quite the treat for the orchestra as the chamber music ensemble has a repertoire that includes classics from the Renaissance Era through the 21st century as well as pop, jazz, and ragtime selections. Their diverse musical abilities and delightful performances have astonished audiences for years and Binghamton should be prepared for nothing less. The quartet was originally founded by April Lucas who is now joined by saxophonists Daniel Miller, Crystal Fisher, and Nicole Mushalla.
The concerts will be a family-friendly mix of jazz, pops, and contemporary classics suited and welcome to all ages, so come and celebrate the summer through the sweet sounds of music.
Concerts in Every Corner
July 20, 2023:
11:20am: Ross Park Zoo, 60 Morgan Road, Binghamton
12:30pm: Columbus Park, 26 Columbus Park East, Binghamton
July 21, 2023:
11:20am: Cheri A. Lindsey Memorial Park, 1 Truesdell Street, Binghamton
12:30pm: Fairview Park, 58 Fairview Avenue, Binghamton
The upcoming Zamna Festival on Saturday, August 5th at The Brooklyn Mirage is where the jungle meets lasers, and raves meet paradise. A one-of-a-kind outdoor venue in East Williamsburg, The Brooklyn Mirage will be transformed into an immersive experience, Zamna’s signature oasis of electronic music, art, and culture.
Since its beginnings in 2017, Zamna Festival has since become an epicenter of electronic music. What EDM.com called “Tulum’s premier dance music experience,” Zamna draws tens of thousands of attendees from more than 110 countries around the world every year. Now, Zamna will debut their bears for their very first New York City, bringing the spirit of Tulum to Brooklyn with a complete venue takeover of The Brooklyn Mirage.
The Brooklyn Mirage prominently boasts a state-of-the-art KV2 sound system in addition to stellar three-dimensional video projection mapping technology. Part of the Avant Gardner complex, the multifaceted events space was nominated for ‘Best Club’ in the 2019 International Dance Music Awards. Forbes says “World-renowned venue The Brooklyn Mirage delivers some of the world’s hottest talent such as Kaskade, Zedd, Alesso, Charlotte de Witte, Dillon Francis, Tae of Us, Adam Beyer, Excision and Fisher.”
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Maya Donovan has just released her latest single “Lenox,” a contained ballad that recounts the residual emotions created through trauma. This track sees Donovan embrace rich bass lines, complex vocal harmonies, and a uniquely electric piano tone to establish her signature sonic environment.
Following her 2018 debut EP and her new successful single “We Should Get Dinner,” Maya Donovan is hopeful to bring her mellow compositions to audiences through a string of upcoming single releases. Her music is beautifully made, blended with her heartfeltly modern lyricism.
Maya Donovan is a 24-year-old singer-songwriter raised and based in Brooklyn whose style draws on a host of genres: folk, soul, pop, and jazz. A masterful storyteller, Donovan writes of the most painful parts of life with unflinching honesty, empathy, and humor. Her rich voice, armed with delicate control, will pull you into her music and keep you there.
Since almost as early as she could talk, Maya Donovan has been writing tunes to express her innermost feelings. Most recently, Donovan continues to utilize songwriting to chronicle her battles with anxiety and her constant re-discovery of herself through adolescence and young adulthood.
A graduate of New York City’s prestigious LaGuardia High School for Performing Arts (the “Fame” school), Donovan has been making music for as long as she can remember. Some of her first songs she wrote before the age of 10, hunched over a first-generation iMac computer. Donovan comes from a long line of creatives: daughter of Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Vanessa Roth, and granddaughter of screenwriter Eric Roth, whose prolific work includes the Forrest Gump screenplay.
To enjoy Maya Donovan’s charismatic presence live, you can find her as a resident artist at The Bitter End in Greenwich Village, which has been graced by some of her biggest musical influences, such as Carole King, Billy Joel, and Lady Gaga. Additional inspiration for her art comes from fellow contemporary singer-songwriters such as Fiona Apple, Sara Bareilles, and Julia Jacklin.
As the Phish Summer Tour nears its seven-night run at Madison Square Garden (MSG) in NYC from July 28 to August 5, pre-shows and after-parties have been announced orbiting around Phish’s showings at MSG. Many of these events are being held by Creative Entertainment Group (CEG) with two additional events by PhanArt.
July 28
The six-piece rock band Kendall Street Company will be playing live at the Cutting Room at 11:55 p.m., with a $25 fee and an age limit of 21 and over. The band is based out of Charlottesville, VA, and incorporates elements of jazz, folk, bluegrass, and funk in their songs. Tickets and more information can be found here.
July 29
July 29 will feature one of two shows by PhanArt as a part of its Summer in the City event at Hill Country Barbecue. With music be Sweeping Views, PhanArt will include artists and vendors from across the jam scene and country selling wares made by the fans, for the fans. Admission is free, with doors opening at 1:00 p.m.. More information can be found on PhanArt’s website.
Also at Hill Country is the free after-party with One Time Weekend, an “innovative shred-funk” quartet out of Connecticut. Known for high-energy live shows, “We Grove – You Move” is the mantra of One Time Weekend. Doors open at 11:00 p.m., with the show starting at 12:00 a.m.. More information can be found here.
At the Cutting Room will be Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel, a guitarist and singer-songwriter from Sarasota, FL. Playing alongside Dickey Betts, his father, in his band the Great Southern, Betts would later act as one of the founders for the Allman Betts Band. Doors open at 11:30 p.m. and the show starts at 12:30 a.m.. More information can be found here.
July 30
Pre-Phish at the Cutting Room will be the 50th Anniversary of Watkins Glen Summer Jam. With 600,000 in attendance, the original Watkins Glen Summer Jam in 1973 won the Guinness Book of World Records entry for “Largest audience at a pop festival.”
The 50th Anniversary Event will feature the music of The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band and The Band through The Allmost Brothers Band, ALEO productions performance of The Band, and Near Dead Experience. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., the show starts at 2:00 p.m., and more information can be found here.
A Phish After-Party Elton Jawn: Philly Phunk x Elton Dance Party will be held at Hill Country Barbecue. The Knotty G’s will be joined by Felix Pastorius, Neal “Fro” Evans of Dopapod, and Jeremy Kaplan of Dogs in a Pile. Doors open at 11:30 p.m., the show begins at 12:30 a.m., and tickets are $15. More information can be found here.
At the Cutting Room will be Space Bacon, with doors opening at 11:30 p.m. and the show starting at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $18. More information can be found here.
August 1
Grateful Dead tribute band Stella Blue’s Band will be holding two shows on Aug. 1, with the latter being a Phish after-party. Both are being held at the Cutting Room. Committed to recreating the authentic experience of being at a Grateful Dead show, they are based in the Tri-State area. The show is for all ages, with doors opening at 11:30 p.m. and the show starting at 11:59 p.m.. It is an all-ages show with $25 tickets. More information can be found here.
Art Thief & LINKS will be holding their After-Party at Hill Country Barbecue. Art Thief is a science fiction rock band from New Paltz, and LINKS is a 10-piece electrofunk futureband from Brooklyn. Tickets are $18 with doors opening at 11:00 p.m. and the show starting at 12:00 a.m.. More information can be found here.
August 2
At the Cutting Room will be LaMP, a band from Burlington, VT. Combining the talents of Russ Lawton, Scott Metzger and Ray Paczkowski, the trio has played together since 2018. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $25. More information can be found here.
Also that night, the Phish After-Party featuring Dizgo will be held at Hill Country Barbecue. It will feature the music of Talking Heads, Gorillaz & Dizgo. Doors open at 11:00 p.m., the show begins at 12:00 a.m., and tickets are $15. More information can be found here.
August 3
Since Phish isn’t playing this evening, why not check out an up and coming band you might not otherwise get a chance to see? Mercury Lounge will host Hilltop on August 3rd, with the Albany-based band bringing Thursday night funk and jams to those looking to keep boogieing down in between Phish shows. Joining Hilltop at Mercury Lounge will be Whaley + Ernie & The Band opening the night. Tickets available here.
August 4
Perpetual Groove, a rock band from Savannah, GA, will be playing at the Cutting Room. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $25 for the event, and are available here.
Also on this day is Lava Party, a pre-show event from 4:20-6:20 p.m. Admission is free with great food and beer selections.
August 5
PhanArt’s second show of the MSG run will take place on Aug. 5, also at Hill Country Barbecue. Different vendors and artists will be present, with Sweeping Views spinning live for this event as well.
Admission is still free, with doors also opening at 1:00 p.m. for the Aug. 5 show. More information can be found on PhanArt’s website.
Later that night at the Cutting Room, the improv rockers Eggy will be playing. The band is comprised of guitarist and vocalist Jake Brownstein, keyboardist Dani Battat, bassist Michael Goodman and drummer Alex Bailey. Doors will open at 11:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 12:30 a.m.. Tickets are $20, available here alongside more information.
Cutting Room is located at 44 East 32nd Street between Madison & Park Avenues. It is a five minute walk from MSG. Hill Country, meanwhile, is located at 30 W 26th St between 5th and 6th Avenues. It is also a five minute walk from MSG.
