This holiday season, Buffalo’s local venues Seneca One and The Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center will host a variety of Christmas festivities with holiday jazz for all. The events feature A Charlie Brown Christmas presented at both venues for a total of three shows, as well as the “In The Christmas City” Jazz Concert, featuring rising jazz vocalist Corinne Mammana.
Seneca One will present A Charlie Brown Christmas on December 2 at 7:30PM and December 3 at 2PM. The Ed Croft Trio will perform the beloved soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi. Ed Croft will lead the performance with story anecdotes between songs, celebrating the adored holiday classic movie. Tickets are available for December 2 and December 3.
Corinne Mammana
Seneca One will follow with a holiday jazz concert titled “In The Christmas City” on December 8. The show stars rising jazz vocalist Corinne Mammana, combining jazz with timeless holiday traditions. Mammana has not just vocal skills, but is also a songwriter, arranger, recording artist, and bandleader sure to deliver a wonderful performance. Tickets are available here.
Finally, The Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center will also present “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on December 13 led by the Ed Croft Trio. The Trio consists of Ed Croft, Ivan Docenko, and Dave Wasik. Presented by JazzBuffalo and Canterbury Woods, the classic soundtrack to A Charlie Brown Christmas is a perfect holiday event for Buffalo. Tickets are available here.
Busta Rhymes, 12-time GRAMMY® Award nominee and one of the most influential rappers of all time, will launch a massive North American headline tour, BLOCKBUSTA, set for 2024.
Busta Rhymes persists and perseveres as one of history’s most indomitable, impactful, and influential rappers. His patented tongue-twisting flow and lyrical fireworks changed the art form, flooding the culture with speed and begging it to maintain pace.
He has garnered a staggering 12 GRAMMY® Award nominations, sold over 10 million albums worldwide, and delivered seven Top 10 debuts on the Billboard 200. Dubbed “the greatest performer of all time” by JAY-Z and “the James Brown of hip-hop” by Phife Dawg, he notably made it from the humblest of beginnings in East Flatbush Brooklyn, all the way to the White House visiting with President Barack Obama.
He is a rare force of nature who started off with Leaders of the New School and has collaborated with everyone from Dr. Dre, Janet Jackson, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and Mariah Carey to Dave Chappelle, Ozzy Osbourne, and Chris Rock. Esteemed outlets such as Billboard, Vibe, and The Source placed him on their list of the Top 50 MCs of All Time, while MTV has called him “one of hip-hop’s greatest visual artists.” BET Jams crowned Busta’s “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See” as the “Greatest Hip-Hop Video of All-Time.”
Produced by The Conglomerate Entertainment and Live Nation, this will be the first headlining run in support of his acclaimed new full-length offering, BLOCKBUSTA, out now. This jaunt includes a stop at Brooklyn Paramount in Brooklyn, NY, on April 21, 2024. Busta will be joined by a special guest in select cities – stay tuned to his socials for more.
Busta notably Executive Produced the album alongside legendary heavyweights, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, and Swizz Beatz. It boasts a bevy of bangers, including the latest single “OK” [feat. Young Thug], “LUXURY LIFE” [feat. Coi Leray], and “Beach Ball” [feat. BIA].
This tour maintains his momentum from a triumphant turn supporting 50 Cent this year on the historic sold out global Final Lap Tour. As always, expect a supernova-level set night after night from Busta as he delivers earth-shaking classics and choice cuts from BLOCKBUSTA.
BLOCKBUSTA 2024 TOUR DATES
3/13 San Francisco, CA The Masonic
3/15 Los Angeles, CA Hollywood Palladium
3/16 Anaheim, CA House of Blues
3/17 San Diego, CA SOMA
3/19 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
3/20 Phoenix, AZ The Van Buren
3/22 Denver, CO Fillmore Auditorium
3/24 Dallas, TX South Side Ballroom
3/26 Austin, TX Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
3/28 Houston, TX 713 Music Hall
3/30 Atlanta, GA Coca Cola Roxy
4/1 Orlando, FL House of Blues
4/2 Miami Beach, FL Fillmore Miami Beach At Jackie Gleason Theatre
4/4 Raleigh, NC The Ritz
4/5 Charlotte, NC The Fillmore Charlotte
4/7 Philadelphia, PA The Fillmore Philadelphia
4/8 Silver Spring, MD The Fillmore Silver Spring
4/9 Boston, MA House of Blues
4/11 Detroit, MI The Fillmore Detroit
4/12 Toronto, ON HISTORY
4/14 Chicago, IL Radius Chicago
4/17 Nashville, TN Marathon Music Works
4/18 Cincinnati, OH Andrew J. Brady Music Center
4/21 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount
Tickets will be available starting with Citi presale which began on Tuesday November 28. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning on Friday, December 1 at 10 AM at LiveNation.com.
Citi is the official card of the BLOCKBUSTA Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning on Tuesday, November 28 at 10 am ET until Thursday, November 30 at 10 pm through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include general admission tickets, individual Meet & Greet, photo op, and Q&A with Busta Rhymes, autographed item, early entry with priority access to the floor & more. For more information, visit vipnation.com.
The Grooving Classic Rock Legends Tribute band provided an intimate performance at The Egg’s Swyer Theater on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
The show featured tribute bands playing classic rock and pop hits from the 60s and 70s from artists such as The Beach Boys, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Grooving Classic Rock Legends plays at major theaters and festivals throughout the Northeast, recreating those sights and sounds.
This group of veteran musicians have been playing classic rock for decades, specializing in songs from the era. They perform their songs with authentic instruments, costumes, and stage presence, and even recreate some of their legendary live performances. Proceeds from the show went to local non-profit organizations in the community.
The show was a blast for fans of classic rock, who enjoyed singing along, dancing, and reminiscing about the good old days when they played at Yezzi’s. The bands delivered high-quality performances that captured the spirit and sound of the original artists. The band also honored veterans and first responders who attended, by dedicating some songs to them and thanking them for their service. The three hour show was a success, despite the low attendance due to Thanksgiving weekend. The venue was cozy and comfortable, and the staff was friendly and helpful.
Jim Anderson and Gary Weinlein served as promoters, with Weinlein also performing in the show, which had ‘appearances’ from Jim Morrison, Grace Slick. The Doors, Santana and Linda Ronstadt, who brought back memories of Governor Moonbeam, and all the craziness of that time. The night closed with Eric Clapton, a standing ovation and the crowd getting a chance to meet the performers in the lobby.
Over the past 8 years Groovin’ Legends has performed at Proctors, The Palace Theatre and The Egg, donating over $30,000 to local Veteran groups through ticket sales. The Veteran groups include The Gold Star Mothers, Blue Star Mothers, Gold Star Families Memorial at Lafayette Park in Albany, NY, Tri County Council Vietnam Era Veterans, and the Veterans Miracle Center.
This upcoming Sunday, December 3, sister band the Screaming Orphans will perform their first ever Christmas concert at The Roslyn Cellar located at 1221 Old Northern Blvd, Roslyn, New York as part of their Mini Christmas Tour.
Their performance begins at 3:00 pm on Long Island. Even though it’s a matinee, be prepared to experience the same level of craic as a weekend night show. The Screaming Orphans promise to curate a party atmosphere that rivals a vigorous session. So you can count on dancing and singing (or if you’re tone-deaf like me, the closest you can to singing) along to various Christmas tunes.
Expect to hear songs like “Jingle Bells” and “Christmas Time Is Here” but with a Screaming Orphans’ twist. The Screaming Orphans’ signature sound, which consists of melodic old-school pop with heavy folk influences, can be heard on these classics, transforming these staple songs into the Screaming Orphans’ own. But what truly makes these songs their own is their transcendental harmonies. Their haunting harmonies rise out of the extraordinary sibling bond that binds the band together.
“When your siblings, you instinctively know what the other person is going to do…
It’s like we’re telepathic at times.”
Gráinne Diver, guitarist and vocalist of Screaming Orphans
The four sisters (Angela Diver on bass, violin and vocals; Joan Diver on drums and vocals; Marie Thérèse Diver on keys, accordion, and vocals, and Gráinne Diver on guitar and vocals) possess a powerful sibling bond that’s heard not only in their enchanting harmonies but also in their lively performances.
Drummer Joan noticed the sisters tend to ramble off and converse between themselves during shows. “We’re terrible chatters,” guitarist Gráinne stated. At times the sisters won’t even finish their sentences. But that doesn’t matter. They understand what the other is saying in a way only siblings can understand.
“When your siblings, you instinctively know what the other person is going to do,” Gráinne stated. It’s this deep sibling connection that allows the band to easily improv during performances. “We don’t play our songs like we record them. It’s not like we sit down and learn all these parts. We tend to play things differently live,” Gráinne stated. “As a family, we sort of know if somebody goes off on a different musical tangent, so we follow them. We might glare at them though,” Gráinne laughed. “It’s like we’re telepathic at times.”
The Screaming Orphans featuring sistersGráinne, Marie Thérèse, Joan, and Angela Driver.
The Screaming Orphans aim to recreate this familiar bond with their audience during their shows. “For a lot of our shows, we want people to feel like they’re in our sitting room. Or we’re in the house or kitchen and just having a sing-song,” Gráinne stated. “Everything is very much like, we’re all friends. We’re all sitting ‘round having a bit of fun.”
While the band is excited to have some more fun with their fans, Gráinne stated this tour is a bit more nerve wracking than their previous ones. Why? This is the Screaming Orphans’ first live Christmas performance. Their only other Christmas show was a live streamed concert back in 2020 during the midst of the pandemic.
Despite the nerves, Gráinne looks to the bright side. For starters, the band won’t need to worry about the internet going in-and-out like it did during their live streamed concert. Gráinne reminisced on it and jokingly said, “We were all just going, I hope the internet drops during a song we don’t know!” Keeping up with her good-natured spirit, Gráinne viewed the newness of this tour with excitement. “Sometimes it’s better craic when you’re not too sure of something.”
One thing everyone can be sure of is there will be plenty of Christmas songs being sung at The Roslyn Cellar on December 3. The Screaming Orphans will be playing almost the entire discography of their 2021 album Happy Christmas Vol. 1 along with a couple extras not featured on the album.
Speaking of Happy Christmas Vol. 1, fans can expect a new Christmas album by the Screaming Orphans to come out next December. The band is currently working on a new pop album and plan to work on their new Christmas album soon after. Covers, such as “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses, along with at least two original songs are said to make their way onto the album.
For now, fans can enjoy the Screaming Orphans perform their songs off Happy Christmas Vol. 1 along with a number of joyful covers on December 3 at 3:00 pm at The Roslyn Cellar in Roslyn, New York. The Screaming Orphans will then continue their Mini Christmas Tour, performing with The Spain Brothers and The Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio on December 9 at The Rex Theatre in Manchester, New Hampshire. For more information about their tour dates and to purchase tickets, click here.
Grammy-nominated R&B sensation Fridayy is heading to New York City as part of his “A Night w Fridayy” tour. The Def Jam signee is in the midst of his first country-wide trek following the release of his self-titled debut-album in August of 2023. Moreover, the Haitian-bred singer will hit 4 major markets during a 4-date mini troop. Presented by Live Nation, the Philadelphia native will perform in four of the countries biggest markets, further establishing himself as a force in the industry. With this intention, the tour will begin with a sold-out show in Atlanta on Friday, December 1, followed by a two-night east coast run — icluding a hometown performance in Philadelphia’s Theater of Living Arts — and a stop at Manhattan’s Webster Hall. Altogether, “A Night w Fridayy” culminates with another sold-out show in Los Angeles.
Grammy-nominated Fridayy heading to Webster Hall on December 5
Fridayy’s Comeup
Following years laying groundwork, Fridayy gained mainstream traction with features on DJ Khaled’s “God Did” and Lil Baby’s “Forever,” with the former’s success earning him 3 Grammy-nominations. Since then, the R&B crooner has gone on to release his debut project while continuing to set personal milestones. Accordingly, he made his BET Soul Train Awards debut this past Sunday as he performed his latest single, “When It Comes To You.”
In a festive celebration of Italian musical heritage, the American Classical Orchestra (ACO), under the guidance of Founder and Artistic Director Thomas Crawford, is set to enchant audiences with a holiday concert program on Thursday, December 14 at 7 PM at Corpus Christi Church, located at W. 121 St. between Broadway & Amsterdam in Manhattan.
This concert marks the second of four Manhattan performances by the ACO this season, featuring a captivating selection of Italian works, including the rediscovery of Antonio Bencini’s long-lost Christmas oratorio “Gesù Nato” and Antonio Gianettini’s “Magnificat,” in collaboration with the Academy of Sacred Drama.
The heart of the program lies in the resurrection of Antonio Bencini’s forgotten masterpiece, “Gesù Nato,” rescued from the depths of the Vatican archives. This Christmas oratorio, composed in 1742, offers a glimpse into the enchanting world of the Nativity, featuring vocal soloists, a choir, and a vibrant orchestra of trumpets, oboes, and strings. Antonio Gianettini’s “Magnificat” and five psalm settings, written for four-part chorus with string accompaniment, further enrich the program, providing a sonic tapestry rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition.
The evening will be graced by the talents of renowned soloists:
Linda Tsatsanis (Soprano): Praised by The New York Times for her “ravishing” performance at the Boston Early Music Festival. Kate Maroney (Mezzo-Soprano): A CBC and Naxos recording artist, also recognized for her expertise as a voice and vocal pedagogy teacher at Mannes School of Music and Yale University. Alex Guerrero (Tenor): Applauded by The New York Times for his “apt comic timing,” Guerrero has been a featured singer in numerous ACO performances.
The members of the American Classical Orchestra Chorus will join forces with the soloists to deliver a mesmerizing performance under the baton of Thomas Crawford.
Antonio Gianettini, a 17th-century Italian organist, singer, and composer, will take center stage with his Psalms and the majestic Magnificat. Having served as maestro di cappella to Francesco II d’Este, Duke of Modena, Gianettini’s compositions were cherished in both Italy and Germany during his lifetime.
The rediscovery of Antonio Bencini’s “Gesù Nato” is a significant musical event, offering what is likely the modern premiere of this hidden gem. Composed in 1742, the oratorio captures the spirit of the Nativity and was tucked away in the Vatican Library for three centuries before resurfacing.
This performance is a collaborative effort between ACO and the Academy of Sacred Drama, founded by ACO violinist and scholar Jeremy Rhizor in 2013. The Academy is dedicated to Baroque oratorio that draws inspiration from biblical tales and the lives of saints, enriching the cultural and spiritual experience.
Tickets for this musical extravaganza are priced at $75, $55, and $35, and can be purchased at ACO’s website or by calling ACO at (212) 362-2727, ext. 4.
NFA Jazz Masters Concert will continue for the 18th year in a row at the Flushing Town Hall. This beloved event is an annual highlight for New York City’s many jazz aficionados who know the Queens venue to be one of the city’s finest to find the best jazz artists.
Flushing Town Hall began a significant tradition when it hosted the first-ever NEA Jazz Masters concert on November 17, 2006. This remarkable occasion showcased three iconic NEA Jazz Masters: Jimmy Heath (saxophone); Clark Terry (trumpet); and Dr. Billy Taylor (piano). Since then, the Smithsonian affiliate has continued to dazzle jazz enthusiasts by welcoming a roster of luminaries most often found frequenting Manhattan’s renowned clubs. The Queens stage has witnessed performances by Earl May, Benny Powell, Albert “Tootie” Heath, Cándido Camero, Paquito D’Rivera, Reggie Workman, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Joey DeFrancesco, Dr. Barry Harris, Sheila Jordan, Antonio Hart, Bill Charlap, Gustavo Casenave, and many other jazz greats.
This year, the NEA Jazz Masters concert will bring arrangements of several NEA Jazz Masters and their own compositions to the stage, including performers Jimmy Owens, Gary Bartz, Louis Haves, Joann Brackeen, Ron Carter, and Wycliffe Gordon.
Jimmy Owens (2021 NEA Jazz Master) has over forty-five years of experience as a jazz trumpeter, composer, arranger, lecturer, and music education consultant. His experience covers a wide range of international musical achievements, which include extensive work as a studio musician, soloist, bandleader, and composer of orchestral compositions, movie scores, and ballets. Owens is one of the few trumpeters of his generation who performed with many extraordinary jazz leaders, including sitting in with Miles Davis at age 15 and playing with Kenny Barron, Count Basie, Kenny Burrell, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Golson, Lionel Hampton, Charles Mingus, Max Roach, Archie Shepp, Billy Taylor, and Gerald Wilson.
Gary Bartz (2024 NEA Jazz Master) was born in 1940 in Baltimore, Maryland, to nightclub-owning parents. Because of his upbringing, Gary Bartz was exposed to many great jazz artists early on. Renowned for his “informal composition” (as opposed to improvisation) on alto saxophone since the 1960s, he collaborated with jazz luminaries like Max Roach, Charles Mingus, Art Blakey, and Miles Davis. With over 45 solo albums and 200 guest appearances, Bartz also mentors emerging jazz talents today. Music serves a higher purpose for him, passionately advocating for Black Americans and their musical heritage. Through his saxophone (alto and soprano) and vocals, Bartz communicates profound convictions about the role of Black Americans today.
Louis Hayes (2023 NEA Jazz Master) was born in 1937 in Detroit, Michigan. Hayes’ musical journey began with piano, before his father gave him a set of drums at age 10. Guided by a cousin who recognized his talent and was inspired by Detroit’s vibrant music scene in the 1950s, he honed his skills alongside luminaries like Yusef Lateef, Kenny Burrell, and Doug Watkins. At age 18, Hayes joined the Horace Silver Quintet in New York, making his mark with the iconic “Six Pieces Of Silver.” Over the next decade, he led and co-led dynamic, electrifying ensembles which included talents like Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Barron, and Dexter Gordon. Notable recent engagements include The Kennedy Center for the Arts and the Chivas Jazz Festival in Brazil. His latest endeavor, “Serenade for Horace,” pays tribute to his mentor Horace Silver, and marks his debut as a leader on Blue Note Records.
Joanne Brackeen (2018 NEA Jazz Master) was a child prodigy and learned piano at 11 in six months by transcribing eight Frankie Carle solos and began professional performances at 12. Early influences include Art Farmer and Dexter Gordon. She was offered a full scholarship from the Los Angeles Conservatory and attended classes less than one week before deciding the bandstand was more significant. Her distinct style demands attention in various musical settings, from solo to quintet. Her captivating improvisations and intricate, rhythmically daring compositions span a wide range of styles. As a full-time professor at Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA) and a guest professor at the New School (New York City), Brackeen imparts her expertise. Brackeen, an award-winning artist, tours globally, having played in 46 countries.
Ron Carter (1998 NEA Jazz Master) is among the most original, prolific, and influential bassists in jazz. He has recorded over 2200 albums and has a Guinness world record to prove it. From 1963 to 1968, he was a member of the acclaimed Miles Davis Quintet. Over his 60-year career, he has recorded with many of the jazz greats: Lena Horne, Bill Evans, B.B. King, Dexter Gordon, Wes Montgomery, Bobby Timmons, Eric Dolphy, Cannonball Adderley, and Jaki Byard. He can be heard on many iconic jazz records of the 60s and 70s such as Speak No Evil, Maiden Voyage, Red Clay, Speak Like a Child, Nefertiti, and Miles Smiles, to name a few. In 2015 Carter earned a Guinness World Record as the most recorded jazz bassist with 2,221 recordings and has recorded hundreds more since then.
Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon boasts an impressive career touring the world, performing to great acclaim from audiences and critics alike. He received the “Trombonist of the Year” accolade from the Jazz Journalists Association a record-breaking 13 times and claimed “Best Trombone” in the Downbeat Critics Poll an unprecedented six times (2020, 2018, 2016, 2014, 2013 & 2012). With a mantle adorned by the “Louie Award,” the International Trombone Award, and the Satchmo Award, among others, Wycliffe stands out as a prolific recording artist. He is celebrated for his distinctive signature sound, plunger technique, and unique vocals. His music graces numerous recordings, soundtracks, live DVDs, and documentaries, resonating with musicians and ensembles worldwide, and his arrangement of NPR’s “All Things Considered” theme song is heard daily across the globe.
“I feel truly privileged to welcome two of the newest NEA Jazz Masters, Gary Bartz, and Louis Hayes, alongside the return of some seasoned Masters and outstanding jazz talents to our stage…”Queens is the borough so many jazz legends have called home, and our annual NEA Jazz Masters concert upholds the borough’s history as a go-to destination for jazz icons and audiences alike.”
Ellen Kodadek, Executive and Artistic Director at Flushing Town Hall
The Legendary Jazz Masters concert at Flushing Town Hall on Friday, December 15, begins at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $40/$32 members and seniors, $20 students with ID. Table packages for two with refreshments are available for $130/$110 members.
From 5:00- 6:30 PM, patrons with paid tickets for the concert are invited to join a free pre-concert workshop, “NEA Jazz Masters in Conversation,” discussing the icons that the Masters have performed with, including Max Roach, Oscar Peterson, Charles Mingus, Art Blakey, and Billy Taylor.
For ticket information, visit this website. For the Flushing Town Hall schedule, visit this website.
Runaway New York, a fashion and lifestyle brand based out of the Big Apple, is presenting an exclusive event titled Open ‘Til Midnight at Brooklyn’s Public Records on December 11. Featuring performances by Balu Brigada and Carlo Redl, the night will celebrate Runaway New York’s 5-year anniversary in their hometown.
Based in major cities such as Paris, Miami, London, Tokyo, and originally New York, Runaway New York is a fashion and lifestyle brand created by Jagger Walk. Committed to making an impact on their community, Runaway New York has worked alongside NYC’s City Meals On Wheels, delivering meals to elderly residents, and El Paso, TX’s Annunciation House, providing support to refugees and immigrants. Known for their statement loungewear, the brand is returning home for their 5-year anniversary this December.
Balu Brigada will make an appearance at the event, performing to support their upcoming EP Find A Way. The New Zealand-born alt-pop duo relocated to New York in 2022 after signing with Atlantic Records, and recently was crowned Best New Artist by People Magazine.
Carlo Redl will also perform, showcasing his talents likened to that of John Mayer, with a R&B twist. Earning the #1 song in Japan at age 21, he splits time between Miami and Tokyo as an upcoming singer-songwriter.
Runaway New York will celebrate their 5-year anniversary at Public Records in Brooklyn on December 11 at 7PM. With drinks, music, and opportunities to browse exclusive Runaway New York clothing, the night will bring together music, fashion, and community.
The vibrant dance scene in Albany is set to be illuminated once again as The Egg and the University at Albany join forces to present the groundbreaking Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company on Saturday, December 2 at 8 pm, part of the Dance in Albany series.
The performance promises to captivate audiences at The Egg at the Empire State Plaza in downtown Albany, marking a return to the Capital Region since their last appearance in 2015.
Founded in 1982, the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company emerged from an extraordinary 11-year collaboration between Bill T. Jones and Arnie Zane (1948–1988). This partnership not only redefined the duet form but also foreshadowed themes of identity, form, and social commentary that have left an indelible mark on American dance. With a global footprint encompassing over 200 cities across 40 countries, the company stands as a beacon of innovation and power in the dance-theater world.
The company’s repertoire is a testament to its diversity, exploring various subject matters, visual imagery, and stylistic approaches to movement, voice, and stagecraft. Collaborating with an eclectic array of artists, including Keith Haring, Cassandra Wilson, and Jenny Holzer, the company’s intensely collaborative creation process has yielded a rich tapestry of performances.
The upcoming program by the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company will showcase “Love Redefined” from 1996 and “Story/” from 2013.
“Love Redefined,” inspired by the 1992 commission for the Lyon Opera Ballet titled “Love Defined,” is a powerful ensemble work that embodies Jones’ distinct and poetic style. Set to Daniel Johnston’s whimsical music and featuring décor by Donald Baechler, the performance is an energetic reflection on love and human relationships.
“Story/” is a reworking of “Story/Time” (2012), where chance plays a central role in choreography, music, lighting, set elements, and costumes. Set to Schubert’s String Quartet #14, Death and the Maiden, “Story/” draws from a trove of choreographic material spanning 35 years. The piece explores the dynamic interplay between movement and music, showcasing Jones’ exploration of the dramaturgical possibilities that arise from this interaction.
The Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company has garnered numerous accolades, including New York Dance and Performance Awards (“Bessie”) for various productions. Noteworthy mentions include awards for “Chapel/Chapter” at Harlem Stage (2006) and “Deep Blue Sea” (2021). The company was also nominated for the 1999 Laurence Olivier Award for “Outstanding Achievement in Dance and Best New Dance Production.”
Before the performance, a Prelude talk sponsored by the Dance Alliance will take place at 7:15 pm at The Egg. Mary DiSanto-Rose, former Dance Department chair at Skidmore College, will engage in a conversation with Janet Wong, Associate Artistic Director of the company and New York Live Arts.
Tickets for the performance are priced at $36 and can be purchased at The Egg Box Office on the Concourse Level of the Empire State Plaza in Albany, by phone at 518-473-1845, and online at theegg.org.
Remaining performances in the Dance in Albany series promise a diverse and exciting lineup, including Mark Morris Dance Group (January 25), Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company with Capital Trio (January 27), Monica Bill Barnes & Company in “The Running Show” (February 3), NoGravity Theatre (February 9), Savion Glover (April 13), and Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company (May 18).
Big Something, the North Carolina-based rock group, have unveiled their seventh studio album, Headspace, along with a nationwide tour spanning from December through May 2024 with stops in Buffalo and NYC along its extensive run. The album is a radiant 12-track exploration of alternative, jazz, funk, and metal influences.
Highlights on the album include tracks such as “The Mountain” and “Amanda Lynn”, which show the full, skilled arrangement of the band’s work, and their confidence as a unit. Many of the songs boast 6+ minute run times, and Big Something makes statements with their creative use of sound effects and rhythms.
A standout track, “Kings of the Wild Frontier,” remembers Johnny Cash-like rhythms and spoken word, and takes a stance as a self-aware, fantastical story about the band itself. They even throw in a Bowie cover with “Moonage Daydream,” paying a punchy, energetic tribute to one of rock’s biggest idols. All in all, the album is a powerful, confident collection.
Photo Credit: Rob Roane
Celebrating the release of the band’s new album, they will embark on a nationwide tour beginning in December. The tour spans over 40 cities, through the next six months. New York dates include April 12 at Iron Works in Buffalo, and May 10 at Brooklyn Made in NYC.
There are so many special things about this album for us. It’s both a requiem and a rebirth for us as a band. Honoring old friends, welcoming new ones and growing even closer together as musicians and brothers in the process.”
Nick MacDaniels
Big Something released their debut album in 2010, and have since crafted a personal blend of alternative rock, electronica, jazz, and metal. After the tragic passing of collaborator Paul Interdonato in 2017, Big Something finished Headspace in honor of him. The majority of the lyrics on Headspace were penned by Interdonato.
Big Something will play shows at Iron Works in Buffalo, NY on April 12, and at Brooklyn Made in NYC on May 10. Tickets for the band’s upcoming tour are available here.
