NYS Music 2023

Category: Festival News

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

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

    Great South Bay Music Festival 2023

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

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

    James Faith – Producer of the Great South Bay Music Festival

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

    Putting the Pandemic in the Past

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

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

    James Faith

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

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

    Great South Bay Music Festival 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The initial lineup for the 2023 Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival in Lake George has been announced by Mirth Films.

    Taking place October 7-8 at the Lake George Skate Plaza, this year’s lineup is set to feature Joe Mansman and The Midnight Revival Band, FUNGKSHUI, Candy Ambulance, Victory Soul Orchestra, Hilltop, Shu, Fine Grain, The Skunches and many more. The multi-talented Connor Dunn will also be hanging out for the weekend as the Artist at Large.

    Wild in the Trees lake george

    The first ever Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival took place October 1-2, 2022 hosting local acts and also included five different skateboarding events. On the grounds of the festival you can find some of the area’s best food and craft beer along with over 20 craft vendors located at the space. Wild in the Trees pays homage to efforts made in 2008 to raise money to build the Lake George Skate Plaza while embracing all the incredible musical talent regionally and beyond.

    Wild in the Trees lake george
    photo by Frank Cavone

    Back in 2008, local skateboarders in Lake George, NY brought to the towns attention about the need to have a skate park. Through various town board meetings and the creation of a skateboarding committee put together by skaters, family members and community leaders, it was time to raise money to make the dream come true.

    Throughout the early 2010’s, local skateboarders held various fundraisers over the years including spaghetti dinners, coin drops, benefit concerts and much more. Between all the efforts locally along with a few grants, the skateboarders were able to raise nearly $100,000. By 2014, the park was designed with oversight from the local skaters. In 2015, ground was broken at the newly created Charles R. Wood Park and the dream was realized. The Lake George Skate Plaza attracts skateboarders from all across the Northeast and beyond each year giving kids a safe place to skateboard without getting in trouble.

    Wild in the Trees lake george
    photo by Frank Cavone

    Wild in the Trees will also feature two days of skateboarding contests including Best Trick, Spot-Based Jam, Game of Skate, High Ollie and much more. Skaters will have the chance of winning prizes from Seasons Skateshop and Corners Skateshop.

    If you thought Reubens were good, just wait until this year’s Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival!

    Frank Cavone, owner of Mirth Films stated

    The headliner to this year’s Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival will be announced on August 15th. This year will also feature an official after party with Two Planets Away at The Lagoon in the heart of Lake George on October 7th.

    Wild in the Trees Music and Skate Festival 2023 is made possible by sponsors, including Lake George Steamboat Company, Seasons Skateshop, Ginter Electric Uncommon Grounds, S.F. Janitorial, Law Office of Paul Ryan, Altered Apparel, Radio Radio X and Corners Skateshop.

    Weekend and single-day passes are available now at Mirth-Films.com/WildintheTrees. 50 percent of all ticket sales will go directly to the Ronald McDonald House of the Capital Region.

  • Whirlybird Music & Arts Festival Announces Lineup Featuring Jimkata, Sophistafunk, and More

    Whirlybird Music and Arts Festival have announced their stacked lineup featuring a wide variety of genres and bands! The festival returns to Downtown Jamestown from July 20-22.

    Whirlybird

    Whirlybird Music & Arts Festival is a collection of carefully curated concerts that take place at a variety of venues across downtown Jamestown. Featuring three days of music with 20 artists scheduled, as well as live painting, comedy, dancing, and more, the festival has something for everyone. Headlining the festival will be jamtronica legends Jimkata along with Colorado-based festival favorite Magic Beans. Other acts include the Smackdab, Sophistafunk, Space Bacon, Miller & the Other Sinners, Charity Nuse & Friends, Grub, and many more. This years Grateful Dead tribute will be performed by Eberwine & Friends.

    The Beer Snob and Jamestown Wine Cellar will play host to Whirlybird’s ticketed evening headliners; Sophistafunk, Space Bacon, Grub, Organ Fairchild, & Well Worn Boot. These shows are 21+ and require a Whirlybird Pass or Cover Charge to enter.

    Free pop-up solo performances by the likes of Adam McKillip, SON, Kallie Williams, Ryan Buzzetto, Ion Sky, Catch Phrase, and more will be happening at Labyrinth Press Co, Brazil, 4 Below Haggy’s Bar and Grill, and Jamestown Public Market all throughout the festival.

    For tickets, schedules, and information, please visit here.

  • Silver Bay YMCA To Host ‘Bluegrass In Heaven’ Festival

    Silver Bay YMCA has announced the first ever Bluegrass In Heaven Music Festival, taking place September 15th- 17th. Located along the northern end of Lake George, Bluegrass In Heaven will bring together some of the top bluegrass artists such as 2019 Grammy Bluegrass Album of the Year winner Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper and regional talent such as the Bob & Sarah Amos Band.

    silver bay ymca bluegrass in heaven

    Festival attendees will not only be able to listen to some of the top artists in bluegrass today, but they will also have access to the programs offered at Silver Bay YMCA during the festival as well. Between sets festival guests are encouraged to take a paddle on the northern end of Lake George, read a book in the Silver Bay YMCA library, play a round of disc golf, or partake in one of the many other programs and activities offered.

    “We are thrilled to announce the start of a new annual tradition here at Silver Bay YMCA: the Bluegrass in Heaven music festival! Thanks to the cooperation and support from key partners in our community, we are going to build off the success of our summer concert series and bring you a whole weekend of family fun. We have a full schedule of musicians of nationally and regionally acclaimed performers – this weekend festival will be a real treat for any music enthusiast”

    Zac Smalley – Director

    The festival will be spread out throughout Silver Bay YMCA’s 700-acre waterfront campus, providing a one-of-a-kind venue for artists and music enthusiasts alike. To encourage festival attendees and artists to explore Silver Bay YMCA’s personal piece of heaven a Bluegrass in Heaven themed photo wall will be hidden somewhere on campus. Guests who find this unique photo wall are encouraged to share their photos with Silver Bay on social media using #BLUEGRASSHEAVEN. Additionally, Silver Bay YMCA is partnering with local businesses to highlight what the northern part of Lake George has to offer.

    There are two ticket options available for purchase: a Festival Pass and an All-Inclusive Festival Pass. The Festival Pass costs $40 and includes access to YMCA workshops, a variety of vendors, and performances by local and regional talent. The All-Inclusive Festival Pass costs $80 and includes everything in the Festival Pass plus access to headliner performances which will take place at the YMCA’s historic auditorium.

    The latest updates about the festival’s lineup, schedule, and anything BGIH related can be found at the Silver Bay YMCA website.

  • Jungle Shakedown Lineup Features moe., String Cheese, and More

    The Jungle Shakedown Music Festival just announced its lineup featuring a wide variety of acts, relocating to the lush landscapes of Costa Rica.

    Jungle Shakedown moe.

    Jungle Shakedown Festival has become synonymous with unforgettable musical experiences and enchanting destinations. This year, the festival is elevating the adventure by embracing the captivating beauty and raw energy of the Costa Rican jungle. Set against the backdrop of the Vajra Jahra Retreat Center, this immersive experience promises to be the ultimate all-inclusive VIP getaway.

    It promises not to just be a transformative musical experience, but also an adventure in Costa Rica, including spotting wildlife, longing on beaches, surfing, and picturesque sites of the jungle. Not your average festival, the experience allows you to hang out with the musicians, uniting the power of music,
    the beauty of nature, and the magic of community.

    The lineup for Jungle Shakedown features an impressive roster of renowned musicians from the
    jam band scene. Attendees can expect performances from music icons including Al Schnier and Vin Amico of moe., Jason Hann of The String Cheese Incident, Steve Molitz of Particle, Mark Joseph of The Big Wu, and Janis Wallin of Family Groove Company. These talented musicians form the supergroup The Dire Wolves! More acts are to be announced.

    Villas for Jungle Shakedown are on sale now. At the time of release there are only ten villas remaining, each with space for two-four individuals.

  • BISCOLAND announced for October at Wonderland Forest in CNY

    Pioneering trance-fusion band, the Disco Biscuits, have announced plans for a brand new two-day festival, BISCOLAND. Taking place on Oct. 6 and 7, the fall weekend of music will be held at the otherworldly Wonderland Forest in Lafayette, NY, just south of Syracuse. The new event space, campground, and concert venue nestled in the rolling hills of Central New York’s Apple Valley sets the stage for a weekend of unforgettable music and community.

    BISCOLAND

    BISCOLAND marks a fresh chapter for The Disco Biscuits as they bring their signature sound and energetic performances to this carefully curated festival experience, which follows the lifelong memories of events they’ve curated in the past, including many Camp Biscos and, more recently City Bisco. The location at Wonderland Forest is a space where concert-goers can “create new connections through a love of music and nature in a pristine landscape of lush forests, spectacular waterfalls, and glorious vistas.”

    Bassist for the Disco Biscuits’, Marc Brownstein, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, saying,

    2 nights in central New York with our Biscuits family, a carefully curated lineup, a blank canvas, a new beginning – that is a dream for the band and our community.

    Marc Brownstein

    The inaugural lineup for BISCOLAND features an array of long-time friends and collaborators from the jam, jamtronica, and electronic music scenes. Performances include four sets by The Disco Biscuits, two sets by Lotus, along with an impressive roster of artists, including Emancipator, Papadosio, Opiuo, Sunsquabi, The Floozies, two sets of Eggy, Maddy O’Neal, Space Bacon, and a special Spaga Plays Dead set featuring Aron Magner of The Disco Biscuits.

    biscoland

    Music enthusiasts will have the opportunity to secure their spots at BISCOLAND with the Early Bird GA and VIP Weekend Packages. In addition to access to the festival, camping passes and various transportation options such as RV parking and shuttle services will also be available. Tickets and passes will go on sale starting Friday, July 14, at 10 a.m. ET, and can be purchased at Bisco.land. Learn more and find tickets to BISCOLAND here.

    Later that month, the Disco Biscuits will celebrate Halloween weekend at The Capitol Theatre in West Chester. More info can be found here.

    Disco Biscuits 2023 Tour Dates
    July 11 – Boise, ID – Revolution Concert House
    July 12 – Spokane, WA – Knitting Factory
    July 13 – Seattle, WA – The Showbox
    July 14 – Bend, OR – Midtown Ballroom
    July 15 – Portland, OR – Roseland Theater
    July 18 – Blue Lake, CA – Blue Lake Casino
    July 19 – Stateline, NV – Harrah’s South Lake Tahoe
    July 20 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore
    July 21 – Los Angeles, CA – The Roxy Theatre [SOLD OUT]
    July 22 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Tavern [SOLD OUT]
    August 10 – East Hampton, NY – The Clubhouse
    August 10-12 – East Durham, NY – Catskill Mountain Jubilee
    August 13 – Dewey Beach, DE – Bottle and Cork
    September 15 – Austin, TX – Far Out Lounge and Stage *
    September 16 – Austin, TX – Far Out Lounge and Stage ^
    September 20 – Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue
    September 21 – Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatre ^
    September 22 – Milwaukee, WI – Pabst Theater
    September 23 – Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue Theatre
    September 24 – St. Louis, MO – Delmar Hall
    October 6-7 – Lafayette, NY – BISCOLAND
    October 24 – Burlington, VT – Higher Ground +
    October 25 – Hartford, CT – Infinity Hall
    October 26 – Portland, ME – State Theatre
    October 27 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
    October 28 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre

    * w/ TAUK Moore (TAUK ft. Kanika Moore)
    ^ w/ Sunsquabi
    + w/ Lazy Bird

  • Electric Zoo Announces 2023 Lineup Featuring ‘Under Construction’ Project

    Electric Zoo, New York City’s esteemed electronic music festival, has announced its 2023 lineup featuring the festival debut of ‘Under Construction,’ the groundbreaking brand brought to life by house music heavyweights Chris Lake and FISHER.

    Electric Zoo also announced its highly anticipated Hyperspace theme, coming to Randall’s Island Park Sept 1-3. With six fully curated stages from artists and event brands, the festival is proud to add ‘Under Construction‘ to the recently unveiled MegaMirage stage on Friday, Sept. 1. It will dazzle fans with an extraordinary showcase of Chris Lake & FISHER’S favorite artists plus a special B2B set.

    Chris Lake and FISHER are two titans of the industry, each known for their distinct style in the studio, on the decks, and as label curators. Lake has earned numerous chart-topping hits such as “Turn Off The Lights” while also spearheading his widely acclaimed Black Book Records imprint. FISHER is the iconic Australian maestro known not only for his label Catch & Release but also for dancefloor anthems like his grammy nominated smash “Losing It,”  along with multiple singles that dominated the charts, topped over a billion streams, and ignited countless raves worldwide. 

    Electric Zoo’s all-new immersive MegaMirage stage comes from the brilliant minds behind The Brooklyn Mirage, located on a secluded part of the expanded festival grounds with its own dedicated entrances and exits – without the need for a second ticket. Taking the stage is Cloonee, Mau P, Rebūke, Honeyluv, Yolanda Be Cool, and Charles Meyer.

    The lineup for Electric Zoo is a star-studded affair, featuring performances and exciting collaborations from GRiZ, who will take the stage for three unique sets throughout the weekend, including a headlining live set, and an epic B2B with Zeds Dead. Electronic music legends Deadmau5 and Kaskade will join forces for the New York City debut of Kx5. Joining these iconic acts are chart-toppers such as Galantis, Alison Wonderland, Marshmello, The Chainsmokers, Gryffin, The Blessed Madonna, The Desert Hearts Crew, J. Worra, Big Gigantic, and plenty more.

    Tickets for Electric Zoo 2023 are on sale now. For more information, visit here.

  • Lake George Welcomes Kelly’s Angels’ Summer-Lovin’ Funfest This July

    From July 12 to the 14, Lake George will be hosting a Summer-Lovin Funfest hosted by the organization Kelly’s Angels. The multi-day musical extravaganza will take place at Shepard Park and work to support the Angels’ many inspirational causes while simultaneously providing fun for all ages through music, food, crafts, and more.

    Kelly’s Angels was founded by Channel 13 news anchor/reporter Mark Mulholland in honor of his late wife, Kelly, who sadly lost her battle with cancer in 2007. The foundation raises money to provide grants to children and families in need in the Capital Region of New York including children whose lives have been impacted by the loss of a parent or sibling to cancer as well as struggling families who have moved to the state from Ukraine. The Summer Lovin’ Funfest will be an event to provide the organization with support and to celebrate their work.

    The festival kicks off on Wednesday, July 12 with the soothing voice of the Nashville-based singer/ songwriter Kyshona who uses music to embody the healing power of song. In 2021, Kyshona founded her own charity, “Your Song,” which provides therapeutic songwriting sessions to at-risk youth, parents, the incarcerated population, and the elderly. Her journey and mission make her a perfect fit for the Kelly’s Angels festivities.

    On Thursday, three regional favorites will be taking the stage starting at 4:40 PM. The family band, the Newells will be the first to perform with a setlist of songs from the 60s-80’s by groups from Led Zeppelin to Fleetwood Mac. Following the family, The Bluz House Rockers will be celebrating their 28th year as one of the region’s premier bands by rocking out with the crowd, taking on classics by Frank Sinatra, and the Allman Brothers, along with their usual setlist of blues blues blues.

    Their 6:10 PM performance will lead the way for the headlining group of the night, Funk Evolution who will utilize their horn-fueled sound to mesh together the genres of funk, soul, and rock. The evening will come to a historic close with the North Country’s first-ever drone and fireworks show at 9:45 PM in which more than 300 drones will be illuminated in countless shapes all over the lake.

    The Kelly’s Angels Summer Lovin’ Funfest will continue on Friday with Lake George’s annual summer concert series, Friday’s at the Lake. The event will bring back the Bluz House Rockers for their second night with the additional headliners the New York Players. The Players have been widely recognized over the past years as being the number one dance band in the region and will bring all that energy and more to the event.

    The Summer Lovin’ Funfest will be three great nights of incredible music, unforgettable fun, and an undeniably worthy cause that you won’t want to miss!

    Summer Lovin’ Fun Fest LineUp

    July 12th – Kyshona 7:00 PM

    July 13th – The Newells 4:40 PM; Bluz House Rockers 6:10 PM; Funk Evolution 7:45 PM

    July 14th – Friday’s At The Lake; Bluz House Rockers 6:00 PM; New York Players 7:30 PM

  • Twiddle Announces Tumble Down 2023 at Wonderland Forest

    Jam band Twiddle has announced the return of Tumble Down, held at Wonderland Forest in LayFayette from Sept. 22-23.

    With their indefinite hiatus planned for the end of 2023, Twiddle announced the return of the Tumble Down Festival, their curated festival highlighting important bands in the scene, as well as performances by the group. Twiddle is comprised of members Mihali Savoulidis [vocals, guitar], Ryan Dempsey [keys, organ, synth], Adrian Tramontano [drums], and Zdenek Gubb [bass]. They recently celebrated the release of their fifth full-length album Every Last Leaf. Over the past almost two decades, the group has performed many at notable places and started traditions of their own, including Tumble Down and their annual Frendsgiving celebration.

    Tumble Down Festival at Wonderland Forest will take place at a brand new event space, campground and concert venue located in the rolling hills of Central New York’s Apple Valley. Wonderland Forest’s mission is to create new connections through a love of music and nature in a pristine landscape of lush forests, spectacular waterfalls, and glorious vistas.

    Twiddle, Tumble Down Festival
    Twiddle – photo by Dave Decrescente

    For this fifth edition of the Tumble Down Festival, fans will be treated to four sets of Twiddle, in addition to sets from Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco + The U.N., Dopapod, Dogs in a Pile (x2), and a solo set from Twiddle’s own, Mihali. A rare set from The Breakfast (featuring Adrian Tramontano of Twiddle), as well as music from Baked Shrimp and Mike Powell top off the stacked lineup.

    Tickets go onsale on July 7 at 10 a.m. EST, with weekend GA and VIP tickets available. For more information, visit here. Twiddle will also hit several New York locations this Summer and Fall on their final Distance Makes The Heart Tour, more information about that and to purchase tickets here.

    Twiddle Tour

    July 14- Buffalo, NY- Cobblestone Music Festival

    July 21- Westport, CT- Levitt Pavilion

    July 22- Westport, CT- Levitt Pavilion

    Aug. 10-12- East Durham, NY- Catskill Moutain Jubilee

    Aug. 10- Rochester, NY- Party in The Park

    Aug. 13- East Hampton, NY- The Clubhouse

    Aug. 26- Vineyard Haven, MA- Beach Road Weekend

    Sept. 14- Washington, DC- The Bullpen

    Sept. 22-23- LaFayette, NY- Tumble Down Festival

    Oct. 5- Providence, RI- The Strand

    Nov. 11- Denver, CO- Mission Ballroom

  • Lake George Arts Project announces Summer Concert Series at Shepard Park Amphitheater

    The Lake George Arts Project has announced its plans to continue the town’s Summer concert series, offering free concerts every Wednesday night at the Shepard Park Amphitheater. From July 5 to August 30, the Lake George venue will host ten shows, moving forward a tradition that has been a part of the community for over forty years.

    This year’s lineup showcases a diverse, talented group of artists, from New York, New England, Nashville, and other various regions. What makes the lineup so special is the wide array of musicians specializing in different genres, ranging anywhere from bluegrass to hip-hop.

    A non-profit organization, the Lake George Arts Project began in 1977 to promote music and artists throughout the region, also providing arts programs for the town.

    The Lake George Arts Project also puts on an array of other cultural programs like the Jazz at the Lake jazz festival, the aforementioned Summer Concert Series, and the year-round Courthouse Gallery Exhibition.

    In addition to the Wednesday night shows, there will be a special Thursday show on August 24. The show celebrates the 50th-anniversary party for The Stony Creek Band with The Switch, presented in partnership with the Village of Lake George.

    As for the start times for the shows, most plan to begin at 7:00 pm (with the exception of the August 24 show). Admission is free and attendees should bring chairs, blankets, or comfortable seating.

    Lake George Summer Concert Schedule

    July 5: Annie and the Hedonists

    July 12: Kyshona

    July 19: Guy Davis

    July 25: The Clements Brothers

    August 2: Three Quarter North

    August 9: ARKAI (presented in partnership with the Lake George Music Festival)

    August 16: Zikina

    August 23: The ILL Funk Ensemble

    August 24: 50th Anniversary Party for The Stony Creek Band joined with The Switch

    August 30: Sirsy