Breakthrough Australian singer and songwriter Peach PRC announced her first U.S. shows in June, following a sold-out Australian tour. The three-date run has her playing on show in Los Angeles at The Roxy and two shows in New York City, the last of which was last night at the Gramercy Theatre.
Peach PRC Live at Gramercy Theater
Peach PRC’s unique blend of dreamy pop and introspective lyrics captivates listeners and transports them to ethereal landscapes. With her mesmerizing voice and poetic songwriting, she creates an intimate connection with her audience. Peach PRC’s music explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human emotions. Her artistry transcends boundaries, effortlessly blending genres and pushing creative boundaries. With each release, Peach PRC continues to enchant listeners and establish herself as a rising star in the music world.
Launching her TikTok page in 2019, she organically attracted an audience by posting everything from funny moments to self-care advice and, of course, music. A snippet of her first single “Blondes” played over the background of a video where she discussed the track’s meaning, and it went viral. The full version eventually amassed over 7 million Spotify streams as she maintained this momentum with the follow-up “Colourblind”, racking up another 2.7 million Spotify streams. Along the way, she carefully cultivated an undeniable style with a twist. That twist defines her debut single “Josh,” the ultimate kiss-off to the worst ex ever and has already received over 16 million streams and counting.
“Heavy” is the new single from Peach PRC, turning the tempo way down and instead setting the weight of her brutalizing mental struggles to a delicate, evocative piece of pop balladry.
On the evening of May 27th, the City of New Rochelle launched its first annual “Downtown Summer Sizzle,” a weekly festival that aims to bring fresh energy as well as new and classic sounds to the community through musical acts and performers. The concert series will continue on and feature exciting and memorable talent every Saturday through Sept. 30 in the city’s Ruby Dee Park at Library Green from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
The “Downtown Summer Sizzle” Concert Series has over fifty performers in store for the New Rochelle community, selected by the city’s partner for the series, ‘PMG 97.’ Performances will include everything from beloved generational acts performed by exceptional cover bands to original music by diverse local talent. Furthermore, concertgoers can expect an array of tribute acts paying homage to some of music’s biggest names while enjoying globally renowned and recognized hits from salsa legend Tito Puente Jr; top-tier cover acts like Ayanna’s ‘Tribute to Whitney, Aretha, Mariah, Adele’; Roots Foundation’s ‘Tribute to Bob Marley,’ and much more.
The “Downtown Summer Sizzle” Concert Series is part of New Rochelle’s mission to enhance cultural experiences throughout downtown, a series of signature events litter the summer schedule in addition to the musical performances. On June 10, the city celebrated and represented Pride with its first annual New Rochelle Pride Festival that brought Philadelphia Freedom: A Tribute to Elton John to the concert series. The Summer Sizzle will even commemorate Bastille Day in July and each event will offer afternoon festivities where concert attendees can enjoy local food trucks, and craft tents, and participate in activities for the whole family. Additional dates for exciting community events intertwined with the concert series include a Hispanic Heritage celebration on Sept. 23 and a spirited, fun Jazz Festival on Sept. 30.
The Mayor of New Rochelle, Noam Bramson, commented on the new event, encouraging the community to gather for a music-filled summer saying, “We invite our entire community to enjoy outstanding musical performances, delicious food from local vendors, and a range of family-friendly activities at New Rochelle’s “Summer Sizzle” concert series. This is yet another example of how our growing downtown is becoming a magnet for talent, creativity, and cultural energy.”
Summer Sizzle Lineup
May 26: THE FULL COUNT BIG BAND – Opening Ceremony
May 27: AYANNA – Tribute to Whitney, Aretha, Mariah, Adele
June 3: ALBERT CUMMINGS – Blues
June 10: PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM – A Tribute to Elton John
June 10: PRIDE EVENT (LGBTQ) – Various Performers and Celebrity DJ
June 17: POPA CHUBBY – Part l – Opening: SWAY
June 24: LUIS GOMEZ & CALLE107 – Salsa party with Latin Grammy Award recipient
July 1: CONJUNTO GUANTANAMO – Afro-Cuban, Salsa
July 8: YACHT LOBSTERS – Opening: Twist of Fate
July 15: BASTILLE DAY – New Rochelle Jazz Festival
July 15: UNFORGETTABLE FIRE – U2 Tribute
July 22: SOULSHINE – Allman Brothers Tribute Band. Opening: Bill Steely & Rockin’ Country
July 29: TITO PUENTE JR. – Salsa, mambo. Opening: Downstate Darlings
August 5: B STREET BAND – Tribute to the Boss. The original Springsteen Band. Opening: Dircks & Kemp
August 12: ROOTS FOUNDATION – Tribute to Bob Marley
August 19: DECADE OF SOUL – Motown & Soul Tribute
August 26: Festival de México – Mariachi, Tejano, Rock en Español
September 2: POPA CHUBBY – Part ll – Opening: SWAY
September 3: MEET THE FUTURE STARS – Performances by School of Rock students
September 9: COLD STARES – Alt. Rock.
September 16: JIMMY KENNY & Pirate Beach Band – Opening: Bill Steely & Rockin’ Country
September 23: HISPANIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION – Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra and Conjunto Guantanamo
Singer-songwriter-bassist Karina Rykman announced her first headlining tour this fall, ahead of the release of her debut album. “Joyride Tour 2023” begins Sept. 20 at Baby’s All Right in Brooklyn, then travels the US through mid-December.
“Joyride Tour 2023” celebrates the upcoming arrival of Rykman’s hugely anticipated debut album, JOYRIDE, arriving via AWAL on Friday, Aug. 18. While the tour kicks off in Brooklyn, Rykman will also stop in Saratoga Springs at Putnam Place on Nov. 30.
The album was first heralded with the premiere of the first single and title track, “Joyride.” Equal parts thick bass, ethereal synths, disco-funk guitar, and silky, inviting vocals, the track – which features signature lead guitar from JOYRIDE co-producer Trey Anastasio – expertly captures Rykman’s jubilant brand of sonic exploration, bridging an array of genres to arrive at her own compelling and original take on psychedelic indie rock.
Born and raised in New York City, Karina Rykman’s musical path began in her early teens playing in bands whenever she could while attending a veritable ton of live music as a fan. Her prowess on the bass guitar soon landed her several high-profile television gigs spanning America’s Got Talent to backing up pop star Julia Michaels on TODAY. By the end of her senior year at NYU, Rykman’s talent and infectious spirit saw her invited to join pianist Marco Benevento’s band, with whom she performed countless shows including dates with Vulfpeck, Dispatch, The Claypool Lennon Delirium, Guster, and many more.
Rykman soon formed her namesake band, accompanied by Adam November (guitar, loopers, effects) and Chris Corsico (drums). She quickly earned a reputation as a mesmerizing, unmissable live act, lighting up an array of international stages with headline sets, show-stealing festival performances (including Bonnaroo, Peach Music Festival, and Sweetwater 420 Fest), shows alongside Khruangbin, Guster, and The Disco Biscuits (among others), and recent appearances sitting in with the 8G Band on NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers.
Along with headlining her tour, Rykman will also perform at festivals this summer, including the Borderland Music Festival in East Aurora. More information about tickets can be found here.
Tour Dates
AUGUST
11 – Westport, CT – Levitt Pavilion (Free Show)
17-19 – Thornville, OH – Secret Dreams Music & Arts Festival *
19 – Cockeysville, MD – Hot August Music Festival *
SEPTEMBER
1-3 – Lake George, NY – Adirondack Independence Music Festival *
9 – Indianapolis, IN – All In Music & Arts Festival *
10 – Mundelein, IL – The Miracle In Mundelein *
15 – Fredericton, NB – Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival *
15-17 – Greenfield, MA – Wormtown Music Festival
17 – East Aurora, NY – Borderland Music Festival *
The Re:SET Concert Series closed its New York run at Forest Hills Stadium this past Sunday, June 18th. The brand-new summer festival welcomed LCD Soundsystem and Boygenius on Days 1 and 2, respectively, and will continue to travel to many major cities across the US. Featuring alternative R&B artists like Fousheé, Toro y Moi, James Blake, and Grammy-winner Steve Lacy, Day 3 of Re:SET was not a show to miss. While some people celebrated their Father’s Day at home, at restaurants, or with family, others attended Sunday’s concert (with their dads) for a day full of dancing, singing, and an overall great time.
Steve Lacy, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun.
Thousands of eager fans lined up hours before doors to secure their spots at the front of the barricade, clearly ready to see their favorite artists. Bright colors flooded the entire venue, as concertgoers interwove the rainbow into their carefully-picked outfits, glittery makeup, and fun hair accessories. Fousheé successfully opened the show with unparalleled energy, exciting her crowd of almost 13,000. Her unique voice goes both ways—sweet and angry. During her performance of “stupid bitch,” she asked the crowd to repeat the lyrics, “I’ll blow your brains out, you stupid bitch” at the start of the song. Screaming into the mic and hitting impressive whistle notes during her other tracks truly wowed her audience—who gave her a well-deserving round of screams and applause at the end of her set.
Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
Next up was Toro y Moi, wearing a bright orange jacket, blue shades, and lime-green nails. His chill, lofi set included songs like “Rose Quartz,” “Laws of the Universe,” and “Magazine.” Perfectly matching his vibe was a montage of cat videos on the large stage screen. Concertgoers were seen dancing, swaying, and twirling to his fresh beats on the tennis court floor and even in the seated sections of the venue.
Toro y Moi, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
Toro y Moi is the definition of cool, as he scaled the stage with his swift, nimble movements. Knowing exactly how to keep his crowd engaged, he pointed to the audience members and encouraged them to move their hands up and down in sync. During his and Lacy’s set, Fousheé was even spotted in the general admission section dancing and spinning to the music.
Toro y Moi, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
The last opener of the evening was James Blake, who upon entering was greeted with a large roar of applause. The 34-year-old musician from England blew up on TikTok in 2020 for his Frank Ocean cover of “Godspeed.” During his somber and deeply emotional rendition of this song, fans watched in complete awe—certainly mesmerized by his warm vocals and buttery vibratos.
James Blake, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
During one particular song, he realized his keyboard was out of tune. While a stagehand replaced his keyboard, James continued on to his next scheduled song on a different instrument. Although his solo vocals are beautiful to listen to with eyes closed, James Blake is also an extremely talented electronic and experimental artist. He blended a variety of different elements into his performances of tracks, “CMYK,” “Hummingbird,” and “Say What You Will.”
James Blake, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
The energy before Steve Lacy’s entrance was unmatched. Fans in the seated sections stood on their tippy-toes while those on the floor squished up against one another to get as close to the stage as possible. The buzz of excitement could be felt by anyone, as fans waited eagerly in anticipation for him to come out. A plume of smoke. Deafening screams. A flashing of lights. Another uproar. And finally, his entrance to the stage, wearing his iconic cyberpunk glasses—this time in navy blue. Fans jumped up and down, unable to contain their excitement.
Steve Lacy, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
Steve Lacy opened his set with iconic songs like “Buttons,” “Cody Freestyle,” and “Helmet”—all of which are from his latest album Gemini Rights. He vibed to the music, moving his body to the beat as his band and backup singers accompanied him. During “Amber,” he told the crowd to take out their phone flashlights, leading to a beautiful and dreamlike scene as thousands of lights flooded the venue. Lacy is a very talented guitarist, and during many of his tracks, he performed his own guitar solos for the crowd to watch in amazement.
Steve Lacy, Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun
The alternative R&B artist brought out Fousheé during the performance of their song “Sunshine.” The two blended incredibly together on stage, and the crowd reacted accordingly. Before singing his hit songs, “Static,” “Bad Habit,” and “Dark Red,” Lacy said, “Pride month is almost over. It’s time to come out. Look to your neighbor, say, ‘Neighbor, you gay.’” The bisexual artist is proud of his sexuality and serves as a role model for many members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Steve Lacy put his all into Sunday’s performance. Fans sporting his iconic glasses waved and screamed as he made his bittersweet goodbyes. Finishing the night on a glorious note with his performance of “Dark Red,” fans were clearly satisfied by the show’s end.
Re:SET Forest Hills, 6/18/2023. Photo by Sarah Hyun.
Coverage of Re:SET Day 1 and Day 2 can be found through these links. Day 1 featured an incredible performance by New York’s beloved LCD Soundsystem, while Day 2 welcomed the iconic girl band called Boygenius. Below is a gallery from Steve Lacy’s closing night—be sure to check it out!
On June 21, the new musical “Rock & Roll Man” opens at New World Stages in NYC. The musical celebrates the life of DJ Alan Freed, and features Tony Award-nominee Constantine Maroulis (who plays Freed) and Emmy Award-winner Joe Pantoliano.
“Rock & Roll Man,” which won the 2019 Broadway World Berkshires Awards for Best Musical, is concerned with the foundation of rock. As such, its original score by Gary Kupper (known from “Freckleface Strawberry The Musical”) features genre hits, including “Rock & Roll Music,” “I Put A Spell On You,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Lucille,” “Peggy Sue,” “Jim Dandy,” “Wake Up Little Susie,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” “Yakety Yak,” “Maybellene,” “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes,” “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” “Tutti Frutti,” “Good Golly,” and others.
The story itself takes place in a fever dream on the last day of Alan Freed’s life within a fantasy courtroom with prosecutor J. Edgar Hoover and defense attorney Little Richard. The two debate, with Freed’s legacy on trial.
Alan Freed himself was vital in bringing rock to the world and the popularization of Black artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard. Freed played their music, produced concerts, and found audiences. He helped to unite audiences, regardless of race, and bring them together for their love of music.
The book for “Rock & Roll Man” is by Gary Kupper, Larry Marshak (editor of “Night Beat Magazine” and “Rock Magazine”) and Rose Caiola (known from “Freckleface Strawberry The Musical”). The musical has been directed by Randal Myler (known from “It Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues”), and choreographed by Stephanie Klemons (Associate Choreographer and Global Dance Supervisor of “Hamilton”).
Members of the cast include Bob Ari as J. Edgar Hoover (“Bells Are Ringing”), Rodrick Covington as Little Richard (“Once On This Island” Broadway revival), Valisia LeKae as LaVern Baker (Grammy and Tony Award nominee for “Motown the Musical”), Joe Barbara (“Grease!” on Broadway), Jamonté (“Hairspray” tour), Andy Christopher (“The Baker’s Wife” Off-Broadway), Natalie Kaye Clater (“Dreamgirls”), Lawrence Dandridge (“Ain’t Too Proud” national tour), AJ Davis (“Dreamgirls” tour), Autumn Guzzardi (“Rock of Ages”), Anna Hertel, Matthew S. Morgan (Vegas and national tours of “The Lion King”), Chase Peacock (“American Idiot” on Broadway), Dominque Scott (“Rock of Ages” Tour), Bronwyn Tarboton (“Frozen” on Broadway) and Eric B. Turner (with latest single “Ain’t No Good”).
Tickets to “Rock & Roll Man” are on sale on Telecharge.com or by calling (800) 447-7400. Group sales, which is for groups of 10 or more, are available through Broadway Inbound or by calling (866) 302-0995.
New World Stages box office hours are Monday 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m..
Summer is finally here, and so then, so is the 2023 CGI Rochester International Jazz Fest. Downtown Rochester once again will be transformed from a small city music scene punching above it’s weight to a live music mecca worthy of inclusion in the lyrics of “Dancing in the Streets.”
With myriad choices each night for nine straight nights it’s enough to make you dizzy, so let NYS Music help guide your way. It’s the 20th edition of the Rochester International Jazz Fest so here are 20 must-see artists for 2023.
1. Nellie McKay
Friday June 23 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm
A singer/songwriter that brings the full package, a true one-of-a-kind talent. Prepare to be captivated and entertained to the nth degree.
Others to check out on Friday June 23: Okan, iGNiTE Reggae Band, Eldorado Slim, Tom Guarna Trio
2. Albino Mbie
Saturday, June 24 at Montage Music Hall, 6pm & 10pm
Berklee-trained Mozambican guitarist melds worlds while staying true to his roots.
3. Samara Joy
Saturday, June 24 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm
Fast-rising buzz-worthy vocalist returns to the jazz fest for the second straight year. Kilbourn Hall will give more fest-goers a chance to get in to see her but this will still be a tough packed house to get into. Next year headlining Kodak Hall?
4. Bill Frisell Trio
Saturday, June 24 at Theater at Innovation Square, 6:30pm & 8:30pm
We’ll never not recommend seeing this guitar wizard and his incredible trio with Rudy Royston and Thomas Morgan, or in any format he brings. Coming back for his tenth visit, and for the first time appearing in consecutive years, this still earns a top pick. Don’t hesitate to go for both sets either!
5. Big Lazy
Saturday, June 24 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm Sunday, June 25 at Wilder Room, 6pm & 10pm
A big hit at last year’s Rochester Jazz fest, their noir-ish soundtracks will put you in a time and a place while also delighting your ears aplenty.
6. St. Paul and the Broken Bones
Saturday, June 24 at City of Rochester East Avenue and Chestnut Street Stage, 9pm
And yet another festival returnee to fill our your Saturday, there’ll be dancing in the streets when this soulful Alabama eight-piece takes the stage playing selections from their new album, Angels in Science Fiction.
Others to check out on Saturday June 24: Eldorado Slim, Oddgeir Berg Trio, Joel Frahm Trio
7. Omara Portuendo
Sunday, June 25 at Kodak Hall, 4pm
Legendary Cuban singer and dancer, she has reached a wider international audience from her involvement with the extremely popular Buena Vista Social Club project. Should be a stirring early afternoon set in Kodak Hall.
8. Nduduzo Makhathini
Sunday, June 25 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm
South African pianist comes in hot off the heels of his superb 2022 release, “In the Spirit of the Ntu,” one of the best jazz albums of last year.
9. Kenny Werner & Gregoire Maret
Sunday, June 25 at Temple Theater, 7pm & 9:15pm
A tribute to harmonica legend Toots Thielemans by harmonica legend Gregoire Maret with Thielemans longtime pianist Kenny Werner, sign us up!
10. Peter Johnstone & Tommy Smith
Sunday, June 25 at Hatch Recital Hall, 5:45pm & 7:45pm
Fellow Scots return to the fest for some out-of-this-world saxophone/piano duets in the beautiful, acoustically magnificent and intimate Hatch Hall.
https://youtu.be/jNjCKdFjVo8
Others to check out on Sunday June 25: Corner House, Big Lazy
11. Victoria Victoria with Charlie Hunter
Monday, June 26 at Montage Music Hall, 6p & 10pm
Hunter has been to the festival a number of times, always in something completely different and always in something fantastic. Grouped with Victoria Victoria, aka singer/songwriter Tori Elliott, we expect more of the same.
12. NYChillharmonic
Monday, June 26 at Theater at Innovation Square, 6:30p & 8:30pm
Another returning artist that wowed the 2022 jazz fest crowds, this large ensemble group from, you guessed it, NYC, is a tough-to-describe knockout.
13. Olli Hirvonen Group
Monday, June 26 at Christ Church, 7:30pm & 9:30pm
Finnish-born Brooklyn-based guitarist fuses jazz and rock and experimental sounds for a sound that oozes the “it’s not who you know it’s who you don’t know” festival ethos.
Others to check out on Monday, June 26: Kurt Rosenwinkel Quartet, ESM Jazz Ensemble Celebrating Chick Corea
14. Glen David Andrews
Tuesday, June 27 at Montage Music Hall, 6pm & 10pm Wednesday, June 28 at Rochester Regional Health Big Tent, 8:30p & 10pm
Someone has to get the New Orleans party started at this festival and let it be this trombonist and vocalist, all the way from… New Orleans, fancy that! Get to these sets if you want to work up a sweat.
Others to check out on Tuesday, June 27: Miss Tess, Tia Fuller Quintet, Doc Robinson, Christian Sands
15. Christian Sands Trio
Wednesday, June 28 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm
An inventive Grammy-winning pianist and his trio put their own stamp on the traditional jazz trio format. You can also check him out solo the night before. Better yet do both!
16. Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers
Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, 9pm
You can see this legendary pianist and songwriter, who has continued to evolve, remaining fresh and relevant over multiple decades, for free. That’s just the way it is.
Others to check out on Wednesday June 28: Diego Figueiredo & Ken Peplowski, Tia Fuller Quintet, Twisted Pine, Ralph Alessi Group, Glen David Andrews
17. Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Loueke
Thursday, June 29 at Kilbourn Hall, 6pm & 9pm
Gretchen Parlato’s voice and Lionel Loueke’s guitar go together like peanut butter and chocolate and their new album, “Lean In,” is in the running for jazz album of the year in our opinion.
18. Joe Beard Band
Thursday, June 29 at Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, 7pm
You could see this blues legend nearly any week of the year, but you probably don’t. Here’s a chance to see him on the big stage with a full band. Support your local treasure.
19. Mark Guiliana Quartet
Thurday, June 29 at Christ Church, 7:30pm & 9:30pm
Supreme drummer, who has visited the festival as a member of various other groups, returns with his quartet to present music from their killer new album, “Mischief.” And maybe we’ll be lucky and also see him sit in with his wife, Gretchen Parlato.
Others to check out Thursday, June 29: Diego Figueiredo & Ken Peplowski
Others to check out Friday, June 30: Joey Alexander Trio
20. Jontavious Willis
Saturday, July 1 at The Little Theatre, 7pm & 9:15pm
This young blues man from Georgia straight up just has “it,” plain and simple. See for yourself.
Others to check out Saturday, July 1: Harold Danko, Eddie 9V
Make sure you add these to your personalized schedule using the new and improved 2023 Rochester International Jazz Fest app and we’ll see you out there on Jazz Street!
Early jam band group God Street Wine announced they will perform two benefit concerts, supporting MS4MS (Mission Stadiums for Multiple Sclerosis). The shows take place Sept. 30 at Cutting Room in NYC, and Oct. 1 at Levon Helm Studios in Woodstock.
Formed in 1988, by Lo Faber, Aaron Maxwell, Dan Pifer, Jon Bevo, and Tom Osander, God Street Wine played a prominent role in the early jam band scene alongside fellow New Yorkers Blues Traveler and Spin Doctors. They released five albums and performed more than 1,000 shows across the United States in their first decade together. The band performed alongside The Allman Brothers, Bruce Hornsby, The Black Crowes, and more.
In 1999 the band split up after playing a three-night farewell engagement at the Wetlands Preserve in NYC. Selected performances from these final shows were compiled into the posthumous live album Good To the Last Drop. A decade later they reunited and performed four concerts in NYC benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Spread across the globe, the group collaborated to release their 2019 album This Fine Town. Now the original fivesome will reunite yet again with two shows to benefit MS4MS (Mission Stadiums for Multiple Sclerosis).
Michael Weiss, God Street Wine’s long-time man of many hats, poker buddy, and friend, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2004 and is a patient ambassador and advisory board member with MS4MS. Mission Stadiums for Multiple Sclerosis (MS4MS) is a sports and entertainment-focused non-profit organization whose mission is to raise awareness of MS at events and venues, while raising funds directly for families impacted and for the advancement of research at the Johns Hopkins MS Research Center in hopes of finding a cure.
To purchase tickets for the Sept. 30 show at Cutting Edge, visit here, and to purchase tickets for the Oct. 1 show at Levon Helm Studios, visit here.
The Who had bid farewell to fans in 1982 after nearly 20 years together as a band, and after seven years had passed, it was time for a music industry tradition – the Reunion Tour. And where else to warm up for a major comeback tour than with a show at Glens Falls Civic Center, on June 21, 1989
Returning to the stage after seven years was no simple feat. Personalities and egos had clashed, drug use became endemic within the band, and members were itching to quit. Guitarist Pete Townshend had fallen into a depression, wanted to do more than play the hits on the road, leading him to eventually quit the band in 1983. Bassist John Entwistle nearly quit as well, but he hoped to stay on the road. Singer/guitarist Roger Daltrey shed some light on this time period, telling Record Collector,
I think Pete knew he’d made a mistake around 1980. He was going downhill with substance abuse and all that kind of stuff. And I decided at the beginning of that (1982) tour to pull the plug on the band and for it to be our last, because I was really frightened at the time of finding him dead on the bathroom floor, or dead in bed in the hotel room. It was one of those situations. I thought the only way to stop this is to come off the road. It was a difficult decision, but I felt it was the only way forward. We’d gone backwards.
Roger Daltrey, on The Who breaking up in 1982
Coinciding with their 25th Anniversary Tour, the 1989 The Who tour was also the 20th anniversary of the rock opera Tommy. On March 24th, Townshend, Daltrey and Entwistle appeared together at a press conference at Radio City Music Hall to announce they would once again tour as The Who that summer. Townshend, who had announced in 1987 he suffered from tinnitus, told the press that he still experiences hearing problems, garnering a laugh, saying “we will play very, very quietly.”
Skip ahead to June, and The Who were bound for Upstate New York, to perform a warm up show for the tour at Glens Falls Civic Center on June 21, 1989. The Kids Are Alright Tour: 1964-1989 kicked off with a career overview of their work and an unusual connection of songs that led the shows to lasting nearly three and a half hours at some venues. With a variety of songs from across a quarter century, including a great deal of new ones from Townshend’s Iron Man soundtrack (released earlier that year), some songs would be cut from the show, making this performance in Glens Falls full of rarities and popular tracks, side-by-side. Audiences in New York and Los Angeles featured full-scale presentations of Tommy.
The first half of the show featured a great deal of songs from Tommy, including an extended “Overture” which was uplinked to the BBC to be broadcast live in England, as well as aired locally, and uninterrupted, on WTEN in Albany.
Beyond Tommy songs, a fair amount of Townshend’s solo work appeared in the show, including “I Won’t Run Anymore,” “All Shall Be Well” and “A Friend Is a Friend” from Iron Man, a rarity “Trick of the Light” that had not been played since 1979, “A Little Is Enough” and “Give Blood.” Townshend would play acoustic guitar during Tommy and his solo songs, then switched to electric guitar for the second act.
The solo Entwistle song, “Too Late the Hero” stands out as well, in addition to covers of “Hey Joe” (The Leaves), “Summertime Blues” (Eddie Cochran), “Love Hurts” (The Everly Brothers) and a show stopping “Twist and Shout.”
Joining Daltrey, Townshend and Entwistle was Simon Philips on drums, filling the void left by the untimely passing of Keith Moon in 1978. The Who also brought in a large number of musicians to accompany them for each performance, including Steve ‘Boltz’ Bolton (Guitar), John Bundrick (Piano, Keyboards), Chyna (Backing Vocals), Simon Clarke (Brass Section), Simon Gardner (Brass Section), Jody Linscott (Percussion), Roddy Lorimer (Brass Section), Billy Nicholls (Backing Vocals), Tim Saunders (Brass Section), Neil Sidwell (Brass Section) and Cleveland Watkiss (Backing Vocals). When asked why such a large number of musicians, Townshend replied on Good Morning America, “The more musicians you have, the quieter you can play. It’s a bit difficult to make a big sound with an electric guitar unless it’s quite loud. I’m paying the price now for playing too much loud guitar.”
While their record breaking performance in Buffalo in 1982 with The Clash was a sign fans were still hungry for punk in all its forms (godfathers optional), The Who of 1989 were looking for something a bit more dialed back. Speaking to David Gates of Newsweek, Townshend said, remarking on what audiences expect of The Who at this point of their career.
They expect us to be present. We’re just supposed to be there. It’s not that it’s unimportened what we play or how we play, but it’s importent that we’re present and that we want to be present. You don’t invite people to celebrate your work and then look like you don’t want to be at the party.
Pete Townshend
Fans of The Who were certainly enjoying this first chance to see a band that had bid farewell seven years prior. Daltrey, at age 45, still swung his microphone on its cord like it was a lasso, and Townshend (44), continued to leap in the air on cue, in addition to his trademark guitar windmill, which was now adorning t-shirts for sale at the show. Newsweek would say the night was “a hell of a show for the money.”
The Kids Are Alright Tour: 1964-1989 would first be seen in Glens Falls, but the official start was in Toronto on June 23 and 24, the city where the band played their final show in 1982.
Rehearsal Setlist: Sister Disco, You Better You Bet, Who Are You, Baba O’Riley, Behind Blue Eyes, Won’t Get Fooled Again, Hey Joe
Setlist: Overture, 1921, Amazing Journey, Sparks, The Acid Queen, Pinball Wizard, Do You Think It’s Alright, Fiddle About, I’m Free, Tommy’s Holiday Camp, We’re Not Gonna Take It, I Won’t Run Any More, All Shall Be Well, A Friend Is A Friend, I Can’t Explain, Substitute, I Can See For Miles, Trick Of The Light, Boris The Spider, Hey Joe, Who Are You, Naked Eye, Summertime Blues, Too Much Of Anything, Baba O’Riley, My Generation, A Little Is Enough, 5.15, Love Reign O’er Me, Love Hurts, Too Late The Hero, My Wife, Sister Disco, Give Blood, Join Together, You Better You Bet, Behind Blue Eyes, Won’t Get Fooled Again
Encore: Pictures Of Lily, Twist And Shout
Watch videos and recordings from June 21, 1989 at Glens Falls Civic Center below.
The annual Summer at the Plaza 2023 Festival lineup has been announced, taking place at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, featuring family-friendly concerts, movies, and festivals, starting with the annual July 4 celebration.
The Summer at the Plaza 2023 celebration kicks off on July 4 with an exciting program with incredible live music. The “Queen of Percussion” Sheila E. has made a name for herself as one of the most talented musical icons over the decades. She is fearless and passionate, following the beat of her drum, and touching the lives of many over the years. Sibling Upstate NY natives Jocelyn & Chris also perform. Along with the performances are the best fireworks display in the region and great food and beverages.
Featured on June 21 is a Pride Night Celebration with Jan’s Jukebox, of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 12 and All Stars season 6, and special guest DJ Phoenix, from 6-9 p.m.
The popular Lunchtime at the Plaza Concert Series returns this summer, featuring live music and a variety of food trucks on ten Wednesdays between June 7 and Aug. 16 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
The lunchtime concert series provides an excellent opportunity for state employees and the public to come to the Empire State Plaza and enjoy being out in warmer temperatures and summer sun while listening to live performances and eating a healthy lunch from one of the Plaza food vendors or shopping at the weekly farmers market.
Jeanette Moy, Commissioner of OGS
Kicking off the series is Acute Inflections, New York’s Jazzy R&B duo, consisting of Elasea Douglas (vocalist) and Sadiki Pierre (bassist). June 14 brings Upstate NY native Maria Zemantauski, who has toured Spain, Italy, and across the continental United States to great acclaim. She brings Brian Melick to perform a variety of Spanish classical, flamenco, and American fingerstyle music. June 21 features a Make Music Day celebration featuring Heard, a collective of musicians who bring their skills and passion for world music, jazz, and improvising to create irresistible grooves set in a unique sonic tapestry.
Heard.
The Lunchtime at the Plaza series on June 28 acts have yet to be announced, and the following week has no concert because of the July 4 celebration. Veteran Appreciation Day is July 12, featuring the Gone Gray Band, performing a mix of 50s, 60s, and 70s music that shaped their lives. July 19’s show has acts that have also yet to be announced. July 26 features Carmen and Life’s Guilty Pleasures with lead singer Carmen Lookshire from Albany, performing a mix of jazz-infused songs. The last few weeks feature The Age performing R&B/soul on Aug. 2, The Dominant 5, a brass ensemble, on Aug. 9, and finally R&B group Legacy on Aug. 16.
The New York State Food Festival returns Aug. 16 from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. The annual Food Festival pairs a wide variety of delicious food and beverages with an exciting lineup of free entertainment, featuring the Robert Randolph & The Family Band, with an additional performance by Flavour. Robert Randolph has jumped from spiritual to secular music, finding an audience among roots rook aficionados, jam band followers, or blues fans with his fiery, passionate instrumental work and heartfelt music.
Returning on Sept. 13 from 5-9 p.m. is the Hops & Harvest Festival, celebrating the best of what autumn has to offer in Upstate New York as well as tasty beers crafted by several local breweries. This year will feature a performance by the Yonder Mountain String Band, with additional performances by Sicard Hollow and Bees in the Barn. Grammy-nominated progressive bluegrass group Yonder Mountain String Band is celebrating its 25th year as a band. Blending bluegrass with elements of rock, alternative, psychedelic and improvisational music, the band exists and excels in a rock world, without drums, as an acoustic group, performing at festivals, rock clubs, theaters, and stadiums.
Yonder Mountain String Band.
Summer at the Plaza 2023 also features the Capital Concert series with a variety of artists. Commissioner Jeanette Moy said the lineup “includes something for everyone, with alternative, rock, country, and hip-hop artists taking the stage and providing the public with evenings full of free entertainment.” Kicking off the series on July 12 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. is Spin Doctors and Cracker. Spin Doctors, from New York City, had an extremely successful run in the 90s with their 1992 debut album Pocket Full of Kryptonite, featuring the familiar hits“Two Princes” and “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong.” Peaking at No. 4 on the Top 100 singles chart, “Two Princes” had more U.S. radio spins than any other rock & roll song in 1993.
Cracker has been described as a lot of things over the years: alt-rock, Americana, insurgent country, and many more. Cofounders David Lowery and Johnny Hickman have been rockin’ for a quarter of a century – amassing ten studio albums, multiple gold records, thousands of live performances, and hit songs that are still in current radio rotation around the globe, including “Low,” “Euro-Trash Girl,” “Get Off This” and “Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out With Me.”
Spin Doctors, photo by Zachary Beecher.
July 19 brings heavy-hitting rock legend Night Ranger to the stage, captivating audiences with its killer melodies, and intricate instrumentation, selling over 17 million albums worldwide, performing across more than 4,000 stages, and acquiring a radio audience that exceeds one billion. They have earned widespread recognition that includes both multi-platinum and gold albums, and have released an impressive amount of hit singles and album tracks including “Sister Christian,” “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” and the anthemic “(You Can Still) Rock In America.”
Returning to the Summer at the Plaza series on July 26 is the unique modern country Eli Young Band, a true band of brothers who play their own instruments and write their own songs. The band was founded by Eli Young with guitarist James Young, bassist Jon Jones, and drummer Chris Thompson at the University of North Texas in 2000. The trailblazing group has come a long way since its founding, producing Billboard’s No. 1 Country Song of the Year and winning the ACM Award for Song of the Year with “Crazy Girl,” plus multiple CMA, CMT, ACA, and Teen Choice Award nominations.
Closing out the Capital Concert Series is a hip-hop night with Big Daddy Kane, featuring performances by Roxanne Shanté and Black Sheep. Big Daddy Kane made a name for himself as one of hip-hop’s most lyrical, diverse, innovative, trendsetting MCs. He is the first rapper to ever hold two sold-out shows at the world-famous Apollo Theater for women only. With several gold albums, Kane has endured a long career, releasing iconic songs like “Ain’t No Half Steppin’,” “Raw,” “Smooth Operator,” “Warm It Up,” and more.
Other events include free fitness classes starting June 6, free and open to individuals of all ages, regardless of fitness level or experience. The classes will be held at a new outdoor location on the Empire State Plaza this summer, between The Egg and Cornerstone. Lessons take place every Tuesday and Thursday through Aug. 31 from 5-6 p.m.
For more information about the Summer at the Plaza 2023 lineup, visit here.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center played host to Sean Kingston, En Vogue, TLC and Shaggy on Friday June 16. SPAC stands head and shoulders above any outdoor venue in the Capital Region, and this evening, the venue lived up to its reputation as even the rain couldn’t stop a good time.
The way that thousands of people filed into SPAC in the name of R&B brought joy to my heart. It is wild how much we take basic necessities for granted until we lose access to them. Alas, a mix of live hip-hop, R&B, and dancehall always proves essential for the well-being of citizens.
R&B + Dancehall Concert in New York
Sean Kingston maximized his thirty-minute set with plenty of vibes. Dutty wine dancing, nostalgia, and vocal energy set the tone for the whole evening. Certainly, when “Beautiful Girls” blasted through the speakers, every person of age instantly reminisced about the era of ringback tones.
Next, En Vogue continued the theme of setting the tone with radiant energy. Not one drop of rain could stop their shine as they played renditions magnificently. Some people questioned the order of the setlist but nobody could debate the way En Vogue prepared the audience for the next act, TLC.
TLC-Waterfalls [06/19/23]
Now, TLC stole the spotlight if you ask me. It seemed as if the rain would subside during breaks and lesser-known songs. But when songs like “Red Light Special” and “Diggin On You” made their way through the airwaves the whole crowd started to feel the rhythm. Ironically, when the best songs came on the rain began to steadily flow.
Rain Washes Worries Away
This precipitation did not put a damper on things, whatsoever due to its light and misty nature. The beautiful woman by my side chose not to untie her rain jacket from around her waist as she embraced the evening elements. Altogether, the moment felt like it belonged in an R&B video.
The break between TLC and Shaggy proved to be well-deserved for the audience. After exiting the TLC trance, concertgoers gathered around for one last hurrah. Performers who emit strong stage presence tend to make you feel close to the stage no matter where you stand.
Toward the beginning of his set, Shaggy grew discontent with the energy level of the crowd. Calling an audible, he threw on “Red Red Wine” to lift the crowd to the level he desired. From there, not one person could resist swaying their hips to Mr. Wasn’t Me. While that song is the classic, “Boombastic” and “Guardian Angel” were the ones that really brought the house down.
Overall, this show at SPAC proved to be extremely worthwhile. Everyone needs an outlet and an opportunity to let loose. This dual-purpose event provided the chance to immerse within an incredible atmosphere and truly let any anxieties or worries dissipate for the entire evening.
