After four years, Guster made a return to the Beacon Theatre in New York City on Saturday, November 25. Billed as “A Night of Music & Comedy,” opening the show was comedian Chris Fleming who indeed provided the “Comedy” aspect of the night, followed by a whopping 24-song set by Guster.
Prior to their New York City show, Guster finished a series of early Fall Tour dates and the guys have been on “Dad duty” as Lead Singer Ryan Miller said from the stage, while adding it was “nice to get a chance to be a rock star for one night again.”
Full disclosure, this was my first Guster show, I knew nothing of the band other than the name, didn’t know any of their songs or hits for that matter. Musically, they were great, very tight on stage, all rotating instruments in a very impressive way, at times a full drum kit along with a full percussion station, bass and guitar players constantly switching, as pretty much every single band member sitting down at the keyboard for a song.
The crowd was really interesting as well, a mix of old and young, couples and even parents with their little kids, all singing along to pretty much every single song. Also admirable, was everyone stood up the minute the show started as if they knew what was coming. The band announced a new album that’s done and coming out in 2024, and even played a new track from it “Black Balloon”.
In order to keep things fresh, which as a first-time Guster concert attendee I appreciated, they broke the setup and mid-set embarked on a “Campfire” set, only two mics, seated at the lip of the stage they did six acoustic songs, all of which were fantastic, as the entire crowd sat down and sang along in true campfire style. Complete with a cardboard cutout of a little campfire and lighting to match.
Guster – Beacon Theatre – Saturday, November 25, 2023
Setlist: Diane, The Captain, Center of Attention, Mind Kontrol, Backyard, What You Call Love, Black Balloon, Communication (improv jam), Gangway, Manifest Destiny, Airport Song, Empire State, I Spy, Satellite, The Beginning of the End, Stay With Me Jesus, Happier, Amsterdam, Don’t Go, Come Downstairs and Say Hello, Do You Love Me, Mona Lisa, Terrified, Barrel of a Gun
I’ve known Willie Nile for almost 10 years now, been to countless shows, I’ve shot a dozen music videos for him, and consider him a friend. I was thrilled when he asked me to come shoot his show at City Winery New York on Wednesday, November 22.
Booked as a Career Retrospective, Willie was going to play one song from each of his 16 albums, from his first self-titled from 1980 to his latest The Day The Earth Stood Still from 2021.
Nile’s current band consists of long-time rockers such as Jonny Pisano on Bass, Jimmy K. Bones on lead Guitar, Rob Clores on Keys, and Jon Weber on Drums. For the show at the Winery, he included special guest James Maddock who opened the show and also joined the band on a number of songs as backing vocals and on electric guitar.
Playing to a sold-out crowd, the band hammered through the 18-song setlist, with the various album covers displayed on screens as Willie went one by one and gave a little background on the album and the song before playing it. Willie who turned 75 this year, looking younger than ever, vibrant and full of life and energy, was a sight to behold, a true Rock n’ Roll icon.
Opening the show with a 30-minute solo acoustic set was fantastic singer-songwriter James Maddock whose latest album “Night Works” came out earlier this year, his set included mostly material off that album along with a few old hits. James is currently on tour in Europe until the end of the year but currently resides in Brooklyn, so he’s often playing shows in the New York area and comes highly recommended. Make sure to add him to your radar for 2024.
Willie Nile – City Winery New York – November 22, 2023
Setlist: Vagabond Moon, Golden Down, Places I Have Never Been, Hard Times in America, Across the River, Cell Phones Ringing (In the Pockets of the Dead), You Gotta Be a Buddha (In a Place Like This), Streets of New York, American Ride, Forever Wild, Blowin’ in the Wind (Bob Dylan cover), Children of Paradise, House of a Thousand Guitars, Run Free, One Guitar, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Heaven Help the Lonely, A Hard Day’s Night (The Beatles cover)
In a groundbreaking announcement, producers Mara Isaacs, Dale Franzen, Hunter Arnold, and Tom Kirdahy revealed that Grammy Award®-winning music icon Ani DiFranco will embark on her Broadway debut as ‘Persephone’ in the Tony® and Grammy Award-winning Best Musical, Hadestown, at the Walter Kerr Theatre starting February 9, 2024.
DiFranco’s association with Hadestown dates back to 2010 when she extended an invitation to Anaïs Mitchell to release the original studio album on DiFranco’s label, Righteous Babe Records. Having originated the role of ‘Persephone’ on the album, DiFranco’s return to the character marks a significant moment in the evolution of the show.
Expressing her excitement, Ani DiFranco stated, “I could not be more thrilled to be joining the cast of Hadestown. It’s like I get to rewind to my New York youth and follow the road not taken.”
Mitchell added, “I can’t really overstate the influence of Ani’s music and example on me as a young songwriter. Poetic, bold, radically emotive and FUN, she simply has been a mythic figure in my life, and I can’t think of anything more beautifully full circle than Ani playing the role of ‘Persephone’ on Broadway. Grateful and awestruck.”
Widely acknowledged as a feminist icon, Ani DiFranco pioneered the DIY movement, establishing her own record label in 1990. Beyond her reputation as the “Little Folksinger,” her music spans genres from punk and funk to hip hop and jazz. Her recent works include the 2021 album Revolutionary Love and the 25th-anniversary reissue of Little Plastic Castle in June 2023, both released on her label Righteous Babe Records. In addition to her musical endeavors, her memoir No Walls and the Recurring Dream became a New York Times Top 10 best seller in May 2019, and she recently released her debut children’s book, The Knowing.
Hadestown’s current cast features Betty Who as Persephone (through February 4), Jordan Fisher as Orpheus, Tony Award winner Lillias White as Hermes, Phillip Boykin as Hades, and Solea Pfeiffer as Eurydice. The production, with its unique blend of modern American folk music and New Orleans-inspired jazz, has earned critical acclaim for reimagining the ancient tale and providing audiences with a captivating theatrical experience.
In addition to her musical achievements, Ani DiFranco has left an indelible mark in her hometown of Buffalo. Renaming the 19th-century Gothic church she bought and renovated, the venue, originally dubbed The Church, is now known as Babeville. This multifaceted space houses her music label, Righteous Babe Records, and the Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center. A proud Buffalo native, DiFranco continues to contribute to the cultural vibrancy of her hometown.
Tickets for Hadestown are available at www.seatgeek.com/hadestown-tickets or by visiting the Walter Kerr Theatre box office. Don’t miss the chance to witness Ani DiFranco’s Broadway debut in this transformative and resonant production.
New York indie pop punk label, Manic Kat Records is bringing the gift of pop punk, rock, emo and alternative to NYC with it’s annual holiday celebration A Very Merry Punxmas at The Bowery Electric on Saturday, December 16.
A Very Merry Punxmas will feature sets from Todd Morse, The Lucky, Just Happy To Be Here, Triple Word Score, A New Violet and Cult Classic, with more special guests and surprise announcements to follow in the coming weeks. The artists include a versatile roster from alternative, rock, punk, and metal producing a unique curated lineup, highlighting bands known for their dynamic performances, raw talent and unapologetic realness.
Manic Kat Records encourages a thriving hub for emerging talent fueling the underground scene, pushing artists to new heights and authenticity in music, keeping the punk spirit ignited.
This years event is presented by NYC staple, 7 Crown, along with Glass Fun, the first platform that helps you earn exclusive rewards and experiences from your favorite brands and Boston America, manufacturer/distributor of creative and fun products to the gift and novelty market. The doors for the long awaited holiday performance open at 5:30pm with the final act wrapping up at 11pm, followed by the exclusive after party for VIP guests.
“We love our local scene, but we felt this year to better accommodate the talent coming in from all over the country, it would be easier to hold the event at the crossroads of the world, New York City.”
– Founder/CEO of Manic Kat Records, Peter James
The annual holiday festivities tradition will be breaking down traditional expectations for holiday music at The Bowery Electric. This December, come feel the energy of mean, green punk-rock revival for yourself and don’t miss out on this unforgettable show. For more information please visit here.
The John Scofield Trio, featuring Vicente Archer & Bill Stewart, began their residency at The Blue Note in NYC on Tuesday, November 21.
A three-time Grammy winner, Scofield has recently released Uncle John’s Band (ECM), featuring Vicente Archer and Bill Stewart tackling material from Dylan’s “Mr Tambourine Man” to Neil Young’s “Old Man”, Leonard Bernstein’s “Somewhere” and Miles Davis classic “Budo.”
While there has been a John Scofield Trio at play since the late 70’s, remaining his undisputed favorite format for live performance, this newest incarnation has Scofield on guitar, bassist Vicente Archer, and drummer Bill Stewart, sailing through tightly knit sets that typify the musical diversity that has colored Scofield’s long career.
There are two shows a night during this current John Scofield Trio residency at The Blue Note NYC, through November 26. Tickets and more info can be found here.
Brooklyn-based rock band ‘The Sees’ performed at The Bowery Electric on Wednesday, November 15,to celebrate their latest album release entitled ConversationsWithMyFutureSelf.
‘The Sees’ have established themselves to capture the essence of life and humanity within their songs. The band includes frontman Jamie DiTringo, bassist Alex Daly, drummer Tim O’Brien and keyboardist Yoni Wilkenfeld. Their music has become a reminder to make the most of the time we do have and not be afraid to confront the harsh realities of it running out.
The Bowery Electric was the perfect venue for a night of rock and roll, with a bar in the back and an intimate standing room allowing show goers to get personal with the band and enjoy their hypnotic pulse of synth sounds, strong drum beat accentuated with electric and bass guitar. The show on this Wednesday night, included three bands, Smoke Break, Newborn Kings and finished off strong with The Sees album release performance.
The album explores a connective sense of global reflection, the nuances of time and the effects it has on us by always slipping away, the concept record tells its story through captivating rhythms and styles that push the boundaries of genre while exploring fresh perspectives. Stitched together by standout guitar riffs and a whirlwind of sonic textures, the group makes a noteworthy entrance onto the scene with this genre blend, encouraging listeners to not only connect deeper with the world, but ourselves.
“We hope that everyone who listens to the record can sit back, take it in, and recognize that while we are here on this mortal coil, we must take a moment to find space for positivity and love. Even with the world in chaos, we can always choose love.“
– Jamie DiTringo
In its entirety, the album crafts a thought-provoking musical experience, taking listeners on a profound ride through various facets of the human experience. The group of four interacted with the crowd and created a truly accomplished sound that left friends, family and fans excited for the future of their music ahead of them.
Dave Matthews Band recently closed their summer tour, and for a group that’s pretty much been on tour nonstop for the last 20-plus years, they immediately announced their Fall Tour. A very short one that is, with only eight East Coast dates, kicking it off earlier this month on November 7 in Savannah, GA.
As they made their way up the East Coast, the run of shows would come to a close at Madison Square Garden for two sold-out shows.
Highlights from Friday night included guest appearances by Susan Tedeschi on “The Weight”, being joined by Derek Trucks on “All Along The Watchtower” and “Lie In Our Graves”, plus bass from James Genus on “#41”, and trombone and vocals from Trombone Shorty on “Come Together” and trumpet from Jon Faddis on “Jimi Thing” and “Brick House”.
Dave Matthews Band – Madison Square Garden – Friday, November 17
Setlist: Virginia In The Rain, Old Dirt Hill (Bring That Beat Back), Straight Shot, Madman’s Eyes, The Best Of Whats Around, She, Walk Around The Moon, The Weight*, All Along The Watchtower*+, Lie In Our Graves+, Spaceman, #41~, Come Together^, Jimi Thing^$, Brick House^$, Warehouse$, Cry Freedom, Pig, So Damn Lucky Encore: Just Breathe#, Pantala Naga Pampa, Rapunzel
* Susan Tedeschi + Derek Trucks ~ James Genus ^ Trombone Shorty $ Jon Faddis # Dave Solo
Saturday night featured a return appearance from Trombone Shorty on “Smooth Rider” and “Crush”, as well as Cory Wong joining for the last five songs of the set – “Tripping Billies,” “So Much To Say,” “Anyone Seen The Bridge,” “Too Much,” and “Ants Marching”
Dave Matthews Band – Madison Square Garden – Friday, November 18
Setlist: Spoon, You Never Know, Monsters, Hunger For The Great Light, Grey Street, American Baby Intro, Break Free, You Might Die Trying, Captain*, Sledgehammer, Smooth Rider+, Crush+, Rooftop, Fool In The Rain, Tripping Billies~, So Much To Say~, Anyone Seen The Bridge~ , Too Much~, Ants Marching~ +
Encore: Baby Blue#, The Last Stop
* Mark Whitfield + Trombone Shorty ~ Cory Wong # Dave Solo
Jimkata, the three-piece anthemic, synth-washed, electro-rock band based out of both Ithaca and Los Angeles have announced Winter Tour dates for 2024, with six Northeast performances planned.
photo by Allison Marie
Jimkata has built a large grassroots following over the last two decades, including two and a half years on hiatus, which was recently ended. The group have released six studio albums all with their signature swirling synths, infectious pop hooks and candid lyrics.
Jimkata’s Winter Tour for 2024 will include stops in NYC at Nublu, Buffalo Iron Works, and The Waterhole in Saranac Lake. These dates are in addition to the upcoming show at Photo City Music Hall on Saturday, December 2.
Tickets here for all upcoming shows can be found at jimkata.com/tour
Jimkata 2023-2024 Tour Dates
December 2 – Photo City Music Hall w/ Edalo & CAT_A_TAC, Rochester
Legendary heaby metal group Pantera announced the second leg of their North American headline tour, including a stop at New York City’s Madison Square Garden (MSG) on February 22. Following the band’s 20-date tour this past summer, the band has announced 14 new shows across the country throughout February.
Pantera formed in Arlington, Texas in 1981, and have released nine full-length albums since their formation. Their current lineup features original members, vocalist Philip H. Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown, as well as new additions guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante.
Pantera’s upcoming tour will feature special guest Lamb Of God opening at every date on the second leg of this tour. More special guests are to be announced.
Photo by Joshua Davis
In addition to their headline tour, Pantera is scheduled to support legendary metal group Metallica at five stadium shows next summer on their M72 World Tour. The band will also make a trip across the pond in June to play at Download Fest in Derby, UK.
Ticket presales and VIP upgrades begin on Tuesday, November 14 at 10 am. General on sale date is Friday, November 17 at 10 am at Pantera.com.
Pantera Upcoming Tour Dates
February 3 – Amerant Bank Arena – Sunrise, FL
February 5 – Amalie Arena – Tampa, FL
February 7 – Rupp Arena – Lexington, KY
February 9 – Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN
February 10 – FedExForum – Memphis, TN
February 13 – T-Mobile Center – Kansas City, MO
February 14 – Pinnacle Bank Arena – Lincoln, NE
February 16 – Canada Life Centre – Winnipeg, MB
February 18 – Resch Center – Green Bay, WI
February 20 – Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, MI
February 22 – Madison Square Garden – New York, NY
February 24 – CFG Bank Arena – Baltimore, MD
February 26 – Scotiabank Arena – Toronto, ON
February 27 – Centre Vidéotron – Québec City, QC
June 14-16 – Download Fest @ Donington Park – Derby, UK #
August 2 – Gillette Stadium – Foxborough, MA **
August 9 – Soldier Field – Chicago, IL **
August 16 – US Bank Stadium – Minneapolis, MN **
August 23 – Commonwealth Stadium – Edmonton, AB **
In an exhilarating double-header on November 12th, the vibrant pop trio AJR surprised their New York City fanbase with an extraordinary day of music. The city that shaped their artistic journey witnessed a surprise daytime performance at Madison Square Park, paving the way for an epic night at Irving Plaza to commemorate the release of their latest album, “The Maybe Man.”
From the heart of Chelsea to the iconic Irving Plaza stage, the Met brothers, Adam, Jack, and Ryan, guided their audience through a musical odyssey, unveiling both the fresh creations from their new album and the cherished classics. The unexpected nature of these events added an extra layer of thrill, transforming an ordinary Friday into an extraordinary experience for fans who found themselves captivated by AJR’s distinctive soundscapes and infectious energy.
Hailing from the bustling streets of Chelsea in New York City, AJR is a dynamic pop trio comprised of brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met. Their musical journey began in the living room of their city apartment, where they cultivated a distinctive sound that defies easy categorization, blending pop, indie, and electronic elements. Influenced by the diverse energy of NYC, their breakout single “I’m Ready” showcased their knack for catchy hooks and innovative sampling.
With hits like “Weak” and “Burn the House Down,” AJR has captivated a dedicated fanbase, exploring themes of self-discovery and modern life complexities through their music. Natives of Chelsea, the trio’s artistic DNA is deeply rooted in the city’s diversity and constant buzz, shaping their evolution into one of the most exciting and innovative acts in contemporary music. From the urban landscapes of Chelsea to the global stage, AJR’s journey reflects the enduring spirit of creativity inspired by the heartbeat of New York City.
“The Maybe Man” stands as the latest sonic adventure from the chart-topping trio, AJR. Released on November 10, 2023, this marks their fifth studio album and a notable transition as it becomes the first under their newly inked deal with Mercury Records. The anticipation for the album began to build during their 2022 world tour, where the sneak peek of the unreleased track “I Won’t” served as the catalyst. Fans eagerly speculated on the album’s title, unraveling the mystery on November 12, 2022, as “TMM” was revealed, prompting imaginative guesses like “The Music Men” and “Ten Meter Men.”
Building up to the release, the band strategically dropped singles, including the emotionally charged “God Is Really Real,” a poignant tribute to their father, Gary. The animated teaser video released on August 28, 2023, featuring Jack Met’s journey through various landscapes, culminated in the revelation of the album’s title track, “Maybe Man.” The tour announcement on November 8, which includes 2 shows at Madison Square Garden in April 2024, further underscores the grandeur surrounding this remarkable album release, inviting fans to immerse themselves in the magic of AJR’s musical universe.
The Irving Plaza show itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, pranks, and heartwarming moments that left fans buzzing with excitement. Jack kicked things off with a resolution to be more positive towards Ryan during this album cycle, but true to form, couldn’t resist poking fun at him after the first song, “Maybe Man”. Ryan, on the other hand, shared a humorous anecdote about a dozing-off 10 year old fan during “100 Bad Days,” emphasizing the cyclical enthusiasm whenever eye contact was made.
The band playfully teased the young fan chasing Ryan’s approval and pretended to entertain on fan song requests like “Thirsty” and an impromptu tattoo-drawing session. Jack continued the brotherly teasing, asserting that a young fan was seeking Ryan’s approval, deeming it underrated. Fan interactions included an acapella rendition of “Thirsty” by their photographer Austin, responding to a fan’s sign, and collaboratively drawing a fan’s next tattoo, with Jack humorously criticizing Adam’s addition.
“Steve’s Going to London” became a heartwarming sing-along, and the brothers shared a poignant moment, expressing gratitude for their late father, Gary, whose favorite thing surpassed even pastrami sandwiches (#2) and his sons (#3) — the fans. A Gary chant echoed through the crowd, and Jack revealed their dad heard the new album before his passing.
Drumming up nostalgia, Jack joined in on the drums for “Don’t Throw Out My Legos,” and a production breakdown preceded the track. “Inertia” got its inspiration from a friend’s inertia-laden job at a bank, adding a humorous touch to the performance. The show concluded with a faux farewell, leading into the encore with “Weak” and “2085,” leaving the audience on a high note and cementing AJR’s reputation for unforgettable live performances.
In tandem with the recent album promotion, AJR is making a stop at Rough Trade Records in NYC for an in-store record signing for “The Maybe Man”.
Be sure to also catch the band on their first arena tour this spring when they bring their incredible energy to the stage at Madison Square Garden!
Setlist: Maybe Man, Touchy Feely Fool, Burn the House Down, Sober Up, Yes I’m a Mess, The Dumb Song, 100 Bad Days, DJ is Crying for Help, World’s Smallest Violin, I Won’t, The Good Part, Inertia, Don’t Throw Out My Legos, Steve’s Going to London, Bang Encore: 2085, Weak
