On a warm Tuesday, August 1st evening, the Outerharbor in Buffalo, became the epicenter of a breathtaking display of rock mastery as Alter Bridge, Sevendust, and Mammoth WVH kicked off their highly anticipated Pawns and Kings tour. With an intimate atmosphere and a diverse set of hits and new songs, this show proved to be a memorable and personal experience for every rock enthusiast in attendance.
Mammoth WVH, the brainchild of the multi-talented Wolfgang Van Halen (Son of Eddie Van Halen), stormed the stage first, proving that talent indeed runs in the family. Despite being relatively new to the music scene, Mammoth WVH delivered a blistering performance that left a lasting impact. The crowd sang along to the infectious hooks of hits like “Mr. Ed,” “You’re to Blame,” and “Don’t Back Down.” Wolfgang’s mastery of the guitar was awe-inspiring, and his powerful vocals resonated throughout the venue.
But it was when Mammoth WVH performed “Distance,” a poignant tribute to his late father, that the atmosphere became particularly emotional. The song’s heartfelt lyrics, combined with Wolfgang’s raw emotion, struck a chord with the audience, leaving many in tears.
Sevendust took the stage next, despite being a four-piece due to guitarist John Connolly’s unfortunate illness. This setback didn’t diminish the band’s energy, as they burst onto the stage with an electrifying presence. Lajon, Sevendust’s iconic lead singer, won the hearts of the audience with his endearing interaction with the crowd. When a cheeky fan yelled, “Go Bills,” Lajon, a staunch Kansas City Chiefs supporter, playfully replied, which was met with good-natured boos before they all united in headbanging and cheers as the band started playing.
Morgan Rose
Sevendust’s setlist was a well-balanced mix of classic hits and new songs from their latest album. The crowd erupted when they played their hits, “Face to Face,” “Denial,” and “Thank You.” The new tracks also received an enthusiastic response, showcasing Sevendust’s ability to maintain their signature sound while continuing to evolve as artists.
Finally, the moment the crowd had been eagerly waiting for arrived as Alter Bridge took center stage. As always, their musicianship and tight-knit chemistry were evident from the first note. Frontman Myles Kennedy’s soulful voice soared, captivating everyone in the venue. Alter Bridge’s setlist was a perfect blend of their most beloved hits, including “Silver Tongue,” “Come to Life,” and the anthemic “Rise Today.” Each song brought a surge of energy, with the audience singing and headbanging along in unison.
What truly made this concert special was the connection between the bands and their fans. The intimate setting of the Outerharbor allowed for a more personal experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie between the artists and their audience. The bands interacted with the crowd, creating an atmosphere of genuine appreciation and love for the music.
The Pawns and Kings tour’s opening night in Buffalo was an unforgettable evening of powerful performances, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of rock music’s enduring spirit. Sevendust, despite the setback, showed resilience and enthusiasm. Mammoth WVH demonstrated immense promise and talent, and Alter Bridge once again proved why they are revered as one of rock’s finest acts.
As the night drew to a close, it was evident that this tour would leave a lasting impression on fans and musicians alike. The Pawns and Kings tour is a testament to the timeless allure of rock music, and with this spectacular start, it is sure to captivate audiences across the nation. If this performance was any indication, the journey is set to be a magnificent one, and those who are fortunate enough to attend will undoubtedly be in for an unforgettable experience.
On July 30, Darien Lake Amphitheater played host to a festival of Americana, when Willie Nelson and Friends rolled into the venue as part of the Outlaw Music Festival. Joining him was his son, a.k.a. The Particle Kid, as well as Kathleen Edwards, Gov’t Mule, and Nathanial Rateliff & The Night Sweats.
A perfect summer afternoon for some rustic Americana music, fans were trickling into the concert venue, situated directly behind a Six Flags amusement park. The open spaces near the entrance were taken up today by various vendors for hemp products, tie dyed shirts, bucket hats, beer cozies shaped like boots, and vodka from Wheatley Vodka, a sponsor of the Music Festival. The smells of carnival type foods were permeating all around. Fried Oreos, fried dough, and hand cut fries were all available as soon as you entered the venue. Pretty smart marketing, if you know what I mean.
Concert goers continue to flow in as The Particle Kid, better known as Micah Nelson, hits the stage around 3:45 p.m. Yes, that is the son of the Nelson you’re thinking of. The younger Nelson played for roughly 30 minutes, comfortably seated in a chair in front of a microphone. With only a guitar to assist him, you couldn’t help but notice some nuances that really made you realize what blood line this kid comes from. The voice, simple and smooth, almost distinguished. The body language and handling the guitar made you think you were watching the elder Nelson, 60 years prior. Later on, playing alongside his father, Micah really belted out the lyrics and put rest any doubt of who his father is.
Following up The Particle Kid was Kathleen Edwards. Coming from Canada, she talks jokingly about how it took a team of lawyers and such to make it possible for her to be there on stage. Regardless of the size of the team or if it really happened that way, Edwards is elated to be on this tour, her second time around, with the everlasting Willie Nelson.
Musically, Edwards played for close to an hour belting out ten songs and telling some stories along the way. Releasing her first EP in 1999, she hit the Billboard top 200 albums with first three albums and her fourth album, Voyager, hit number 40 on the same charts. Although she hit the scene hard and impressed many prominent names in the business who called her a force to be reckoned with, Edwards eventually had to walk away from music for bit. Taking some time for mental health and revitalization, Edwards opened a little café with a former supervisor from a famous Seattle coffee icon. Known for puns and plays on words, the café was named Quitters, reminding her everyday about leaving the music business. Over time, Edwards began writing again, and subsequently got her passion for music back. The café has since been sold and music is now hers to enjoy all over again.
With vocals that carry hints of Suzanne Vega or k.d. Lang, Edwards can put together some pretty solid and thought-provoking lyrics. Who knows where she would be if the passion was never gone or if the café was never opened up. For now, though, let’s be grateful that we can experience this talented Canadian.
I’m a Ford Temple, you’re a Maserati You’re The Great One, I’m Marty McSorley You’re the Concord, I’m economy I make the dough, but you get the glory
I Make the Dough, You Get the Glory
Following Edwards was the classic Americana/folk voices of Gov’t Mule. Mule, as fans call them, was formed in 1994 as side project of Allman Brothers members Warren Haynes and Allen Woody, which lends to the sounds that fans keep coming back for. With inspiration from early bands like Cream and Mountain, it’s obvious why these guys have developed quite the following. Such is the case for the guy I watched play the air drums damn near perfect in a few songs. Hit for hit, this fan was in tune with the band for a good portion of the set. Mule recently announced a visit to a nearby Rochester theatre, not far from Darien Lake, definitely worth a look.
These next musicians know how raise the roof, as they demonstrated for this crowd and many that before them. Nathaniel Rateliff and his R&B influenced back up band The Night Sweats, hit the stage and the fans were almost immediately energized. Playing a 20 set prior to a guy named Willie Nelson can be intimidating, but Rateliff and his Night Sweats were definitely up for the challenge and boy did they deliver. The songs became progressively heavier and louder through the set, and fans responded accordingly.
While the crowd was noticeably into the current music, when Rateliff played “S.O.B.” the fans under the tent went absolutely nuts, singing along (more like screaming) to every word like it was their song. At one point, Rateliff held his mic out for the crowd and they nailed the lyrics in style. One of their more popular tracks, “S.O.B.” was made as sort of a joke or satire. Listening to the song, you realize it is about addiction and the sobering process and temptations that come along with it. A subject that can be quite taboo to talk about, let alone sing about. However, the instant popularity led to a studio recording, and now it is one the biggest songs during their sets.
Next up was the iconic Willie Nelson. Touring for over 60 years, with song after song, album after album, accolades, awards, etc. It is 2023 now, and what can be said about this Outlaw musician that hasn’t been said already? I cannot think of anything. He was in a band called the Highwaymen, he played the Grand Ole Opry, and he organized Farm Aid in 1985.
What I can say is this. I have been going to concerts for about 30 years now. There was something different about this one, though. It had a feel to it that you don’t see at other shows. As Willie Nelson broke into song, the crowd went almost silent. There was no hootin’ and hollerin’, there was no cheering or obnoxious singing. There was silence in the crowd during every song. The fans let Willie Nelson perform as he has since 1960. Much respect is given to this outlaw that is now “On The Road Again” heading to his next stop on this journey.
For over 60 years, Willie Nelson has done his thing, he has done it his way for the most part, and he has lived a seemingly happy life. He moved from record label to record label to keep more control over what he does. He moved from Nashville back home to Texas to get away from the polarizing grip of record companies. Nelson is now 90 and seems to have little to no regret about life choices, including anything marijuana related.
Sitting on stage for a set of 20+ songs, Nelson sat within arm’s reach of his son Micah, aka The Particle Kid, and surrounded by a few bandmates. The two played every song together and told a few stories that acted as segways to next song, or maybe tidbit for the previous song. A story from Micha becomes the segway for a song he wrote, at the urging of dad. He talks about dying while high, and if he does, he is either half way to heaven or looking at a long fall down. Originally just a thought of Micah’s but soon realized it would be an awesome song and needed someone to record it with him. The younger Nelson sings the song through the eyes of his legendary father, and you could almost hear a pin drop.
While PR team did not allow photos of Willie Nelson, I assure you he looks the same as has for the past 30 years. If you have seen any photos of him, that is the same person that was on stage at Darien Lake. I assure you, he sounds the same, he still smokes the good stuff, and he loves to be stage. I was bummed about not getting photos, however, looking back, being able to sit there and listen a living legend is good enough for me. Seeing the respect that fans gave him for nearly 90 minutes of stage time, was unreal and well deserved. If you ever have a chance to see someone like this, even if you aren’t a superfan, I strongly urge you to make it happen. It will take your appreciation of music to new heights.
The Outlaw Music Festival continues through October 15, finishing in Pelham, Alabama.
Setlist: Whiskey River / Stay a Little Longer, Still Is Still Moving to Me, I Never Cared for You, Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys, Die When I’m High (Halfway to Heaven), Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground, On the Road Again,You Were Always on My Mind, Georgia (On My Mind), I Been to Georgia on a Fast Train, Everything Is Bullshit, Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die, Still Not Dead, Write Your Own Songs, Move it On Over, I Thought About You Lord, I’ll Fly Away, Will The Circle Be Unbroken, It’s Hard to Be Humble
Rochester Chamber Ensemble fivebyfive, known for its involvement in the community, experienced musicianship, and love for the genre will now receive a 2023 Creative Arts Support Grant from the Farash Charitable Foundation.
The Farash Charitable Foundation started in Rochester to support and boost creative arts groups in Monroe and Ontario counties, particularly ones that provide accessible, community-centered programs.
With that being said, 2023 now marks the sixth straight year fivebyfive has received a grant, as they have become a staple to the Rochester population, spreading their love for chamber music to people of all ages.
Forming in 2015, the ensemble began with the mission to engage audiences in the spirit and creativity of today’s chamber music, introducing to Rochester everything this style of music has to offer. In order to accomplish this, fivebyfive develops and performs the works of living artists, building off of some more of the genre’s masterpieces.
Made up of Marc Webster (executive director and audio/video engineer), Laura Lentz (flute), Marcy Bacon (clarinet), Ken Luk (electric guitar), Eric Polenik (bass), and Haeyeun Jeun (piano), the group will begin their 2023-2024 season in October.
In collaboration with Pegasus Early Music, the two groups will play Sephardic music, new pieces, and modern instrumentation usage from the two ensembles to kick off the season. Additionally, the Fall kickoff will feature new compositions from Grammy-Award nominated composer Clarice Assad and Eastman grad Keane Southard.
On top of an already jam-packed schedule and grant from the Frarash Foundation, fivebyfive also plans to release its third album Breath & Fire in mid-October, and will celebrate across the 2023-2024 season.
For more news and information surrounding fivebyfive’s upcoming season, visit here.
If you are someone who is closer to 50 than you are to 25, chances are really good that you have listened to Foreigner, either on your own accord or thanks to friends or maybe parents. Were you riding around in your friend’s Trans-Am with your Aqua-Net glazed hair standing pat as “Juke Box Hero” filled the summer air? Maybe you were driving your 5.0 Mustang around with the cheerleading captain in the passenger seat, singing along to “I Wanna Know What Love Is.” Regardless, you have the memories, and you need not be embarrassed.
Originally formed in 1977, Foreigner has had their time in the limelight. Now 46 years later, the band had decided to Rev on The Red Line for one more time, as they brought their Farewell Tour to Darien Lake Amphitheater on July 28.
While the band has seen its share of members come and go, including founding members, Mick Jones has stood the test of time as the lone original member. Along with Rochester native Lou Gramm, Jones formed Foreigner with Ian McDonald (of King Crimson), Al Greenwood, Dennis Elliot, and Ed Gagliardi. The band’s name was decided based on citizenship. With three Brits and three Americans, at least half of the band would be foreigners no matter where they were playing.
in 1977, Foreigner’s self-titled album was released and would be the first of 4 consecutive releases to go 5x platinum. “Feels Like First Time” and “Cold as Ice” would help make Mick Jones and crew a household name for years to come. The following year Double Vision peaked at number three on the charts and gave us “Hot Blooded” the title track, which became a number two hit.
Into the 80s, Foreigner continued to have huge success with hits like “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero,” and the powerful ballads “Waiting For a Girl Like You” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Songs that have stood the test of time, just as 78-year-old Mick Jones has.
Opening up for Foreigner are Canadian rockers, Loverboy. With hits like “Turn Me Loose” and “Working For The Weekend,” Loverboy is no slouch in the arena rock business and are members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
With nine studio albums to their credit, Mike Reno and the rest of Loverboy have been on and off for the past 30 years, touring with REO Speedwagon, Styx, Journey, Night Ranger, and Pat Benatar/Neil Giraldo over this time.
Tonight, though, Loverboy and Foreigner blew the tent of Darien Lake Amphitheater like it was 1985 all over again. Starting around 7:30 to an already packed house, Mike Reno and crew played exactly what the crowd came for. Hit after hit resonated with the crowd of fans that most likely owned cassette tapes of both bands and donned denim jackets 24/7.
Starting with 1987’s “Notorious,” Reno hit the ground running hard and continued for nine more songs, finishing up with “Turn Me Loose” and “Everybody’s Working For The Weekend.” While they never had a number-one song or album, Loverboy made their mark on the music world and songs continue to be played and enjoyed by younger generations, as well as original fans.
Loverboy setlist: Notorious, Lucky Ones, Queen of the Broken Hearts, Take Me to the Top, The Kid is Hot Tonight, Heaven in Your Eyes, Lovin’ Every Minute of It, Hot Girls in Love, Turn Me Loose, Working for the Weekend.
Rocking the stage at 9 p.m., Foreigner took the stage without Mick Jones. They were fired up, though, and ready to go as they opened up with “Double Vision,” “Head Games,” and “Cold as Ice.” Sadly, while this is the Farewell Tour, Mick Jones will be a game-time decision for most stops on the tour, as he battles health issues that have limited his stage time since 2012.
Even without the only remaining member, Kelly Hansen and the rest of the band kick some serious ass as it “Feels Like The First Time” with every show. Hard guitar riffs, solid drums, and vocals that bring a smile to Lou Gramm’s face are all part of what makes Foreigner the recognizable band they are.
After the band finishes “Girl on The Moon,” Hansen addresses the modern issue of AI as it pertains to ‘art’ and associated topics. Clearly annoyed by so many who utilize computer-generated pieces of AI, he makes sure the fans know that this show is 100% live, with no use of AI whatsoever. Vocals are actually sung, and all the backing sounds are made right before our eyes. Just like the old days, we all remember.
Going back to the memories mentioned before, this Hansen touches on that as they finish up a three song acoustic set. Mentions that while there are a handful of fans under the age of 40, the fans over 40 have the memories to last a lifetime. Music without AI, enjoying a full show without phones, and the joy of cassette tapes. “How many of those under 40 remember rolling up a cassette tape with a pencil?” Those are memories that the under-40 crowd won’t get or appreciate, and this feels like the first time they are hearing the song, like the song they released 46 years prior, “Feels Like the First Time.”
As the night goes on, the crowd is getting more and more active, with fans dancing through the aisles and spilling their $18 can of beer, singing along with every word. As “Juke Box Hero” begins, the beer spiller is escorted to the exit, and the fans go nuts as they await the “standing in the rain…” opening lyric. On stage, however, there is no Kelly Hansen. Spotlights direct fans to the soundboard area, about halfway to the lawn seats. There stands Hansen strapped to a rising pedestal and about 30 feet above the crowd. Someone put a quarter in the jukebox, and Kelly Hansen is now the hero they wanted.
For 46 years, Foreigner has stood the test of time. They have sold countless albums, download after download, and thousands of cassettes rolled up with number two pencils. They have been a recognizable voice for a generation that drank water from the hose and lived to talk about it. They get played at thousands of weddings and proms every year, and yet they are not in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For 46 years, the band that brought Lou Gramm and Mick Jones together is saying goodbye on this Farewell Tour and blowing the roofs off venues one last time. Do you have your tickets yet? Polish the Trans-Am, put on the leather pants one more time, pop side A of Double Vision in the cassette deck, and cruise on down to your local Ticketmaster outlet to get your tickets. Better yet, here is a shortcut.
Setlist: Double Vision, Head Game, Cold as Ice, Waiting For a Girl Like You, Dirty White Boy, When it Comes to Love (acoustic), Girl on the Moon (acoustic), Say You Will (acoustic), Feels Like the First Time, Urgent, Keyboard solo, Drum Solo, Juke Box Hero, I Want to Know What Love Is, Hot Blooded
When Culture Club burst onto the scene in the early 80s, new wave music was the new big thing. Synthesizers, flashy attire, neon lights, and new sounds were all the rage in music and Boy George knew how to play the game well. Always known as a flashy dresser, Boy George and Culture Club became icons in the new wave genre. Now, 40 years later, the music style is making a new splash and of course one of the originals is right there again, as they bring The Letting It Go Show to Darien Lake on July 29. Riding the waves on the tour are Howard Jones and Berlin.
With rain showers going on for the early part of the day, and more in the forecast, Darien Lake Amphitheater is slow to fill as Howard Jones takes the stage for a 40-minute set. A flashy dresser in his own right, Jones comes out in classic 80s attire consisting of a black suit with a t-shirt underneath, Don Johnson would be proud. Jones belts out hits such as “No One is to Blame,” “Everlasting Love,” and “Like to Get To Know You Well” as diehard fans from yesteryear sing along with him.
Following up Jones was Berlin, who had some success with a song from some movie with Maverick and Goose. Additionally, Terri Nunn and her bandmates have put out nine studio albums since 1979, when Nunn joined the band for the first time as lead singer. While they never tore up the charts, Berlin did have their biggest, and ultimately last, big hit in 1986’s Top Gun, “Take My Breath Away.”
Like Howard Jones and Culture Club, Berlin’s sound was in the new wave genre and influenced by sounds coming over from Germany and much of Western Europe at the time. Tweak some keyboard notes, add a little more synth-pop to it, and presto, you have your own style.
Finishing up the night was the iconic and poignant Boy George with Culture Club. With iconic sound, looks, and creativity, Boy George is welcomed to the stage standing atop a small staircase flanked by two drum kits, casually outfitted with stereotypical baggy and bright clothing.
Joining him on stage were the two drummers, two dancers/backup vocalists, a saxophonist, two bassists, and a keyboardist. Just like the glory days, Boy George puts on an eclectic show, with everyone on stage taking part in the production. The two dancers provide backing vocals throughout the set, as well as both strut their stuff at the front of the stage later in the set. Equally amazing job by both, and the crowd made them aware.
Going through the set, it was noticeably more mellow than the classic sounds of Culture Club, which provided a little more upbeat mix. During “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?” the song almost seemed dragged out as Boy George took his time and made it more of a story. It was very reminiscent of “The Crying Game” from the early 90s which was a solid rendition.
Regardless of the sounds you hear today or what it may have sounded like 40 years ago, this tour with Boy George & Culture Club, Howard Jones, and Berlin is the perfect blend of original new wave artists as a new generation is getting cultured in ‘old people music.’
Post Malone is no stranger to Western NY. Growing up just outside of Syracuse brought this booming artist out to Darien Lake July 17. He gathered not just his family, but also dedicated fans who sold out this venue effortlessly.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
NYC’s very own underground band Beach Fossils opened up the night. They filled the amphitheater with their dreamy pop influences and narrative story-telling. Core band members consist of Dustin Payseur, Tommy Davidson, Jack Doyle Smith, and Anton Hochheim.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Richard Austin Post, also known as Post Malone, is a well renowned rapper and singer. He first gained serious traction in 2015 for his hit “White Iverson” and from there absolutely steam-rolled the music scene. People may have discovered Posty from a popular song but soon found that this man’s discography is full of bangers.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Post Malone has invited a new element into traditional rap songs. His incomparable vocals and love for all genres makes him an artist that can’t be defined by short terminology. Post Malone’s performance at Darien Lake proved just that. He began his show filling the stage with numerous band members. Half of which were orchestra members playing the violin, cello, and more. The airy notes and melancholy strumming gave a nostalgic vibe. Post Malone then walked on stage and rose his red solo cup in celebratory fashion before rocking out to “Better Now.”
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
The one take away from Posty’s If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying tour is wow does this man know how to put on a show. From insane guitar solos, to belting vocals, to stage production that had jaws dropped. He performed songs stretching across all his timeless albums. Additionally, he played his latest singles “Mourning” and “Overdrive” which will be on his upcoming album Austin.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Don’t let anybody fucking stop you from living your fucking dreams. And thank you for giving me the confidence to live mine and chase my fucking dreams. I hope y’all do the same fucking thing ladies and gentlemen. Don’t let anybody fucking stop you from being who the fuck you are.
Post Malone to the Darien Lake crowd
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Throughout the concert Post Malone continuously shared his gratitude for the unwavering support from his fans. As a new father and a man who beat the 27 club there was much to celebrate that night. Post Malone is nothing short of an inspiration. He encourages people to chase their dreams and celebrate even the smallest of milestones. Individuals who meet this young artist always say he has the kindest soul and somehow people can feel that even from hundreds of feet away.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
He brought the feels back when performing “Feeling Whitney” and “I Fall Apart.” Posty puts his full emotion when singing these songs and running all over the stage. He finished the night with his upbeat single “Chemical” and went out to meet fans immediately after.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
The love of Post Malone can be felt everywhere and if you want to be a part of that make sure to listen to his upcoming album Austin set to release July 28. For our Western NY family make sure to check out upcoming shows at Darien Lake. Foreigner will be there July 28. Also Boy George and Culture Club performs July 29. Get tickets here.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Setlist: Better Now, Wow, Zack and Codeine, Goodbyes, Hollywood Dreams (cover), Mourning, I Like You, Jonestown Interlude, Take What You Want, Over Now, Rockstar, Feeling Whitney, Stay, Overdrive, I Fall Apart, Wrapped Around Your Finger, Circles, Enough is Enough, Too Young, White Iverson, Congratulations
The Greater Newark Chamber of Commerce began its Music On the Erie Concert Series in Newark, NY this month. Throughout the summer, performances will take place weekly from a variety of artists in the Wayne County village.
Chamber of Commerce History
The New York government established a Chamber of Commerce before the United States went to war against Great Britain. In 1765, the New York Chamber of Commerce was established in opposition to the Stamp Act enacted by the British Parliament. Early Chambers promoted trades and markets, but eventually evolved into community organizations where businesses prospered.
The website of the Greater Newark Chamber of Commerce includes a mission statement, reading, “The purpose of the Greater Newark Chamber of Commerce is to do all the things necessary through the public services to encourage and support the healthy growth of business and industry in the Greater Newark Community.”
Music on the Erie Concert Series
Performances for the Music on the Erie Concert Series take place every Friday until Aug. 25, rain or shine. Featured artists include classic rock and blues band Roll the Dice, cover artist, and singer-songwriter Xarika Suffredini, and classic rock cover band The Marbletones.
The book dives into the history of the Brothers and Sisters album, the Allman Brothers Band’s best-selling album with an influential cultural and musical legacy. Alan Paul notably includes never-before-heard interviews conducted by Kirk West, the Allman Brothers Band’s “Tour Mystic.” Stories within feature familiar faces like Jimmy Carter, Cher, Bob Dylan, Jerry Garcia, and Susan Sarandon.
Several chapters are dedicated to the Summer Jam at Watkins Glen in 1973. The event drew in 600,000 attendants near the small town of Watkins Glen in the Finger Lakes region. It has been remembered as a record-smasher in terms of size and legacy.
The Summer Jam at Watkins Glen in 1973.
Alan Paul himself also is a part of the tribute band Friends of the Brothers, in which the members were closely associated with the original band. They continue to bring the sounds of the Allman Brothers Band to new audiences and will play on July 29 at Lincoln Farms to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Watkins Glen as well as on July 30 to promote the book at the City Winery in New York City. More details after the interview.
New York State Music interviewed Paul before the release of the book. The following is a trimmed-down transcript of that interview which discusses Paul’s inspiration, his thoughts on the Brothers and Sisters album, details from his research, and more.
NYS Music: You’re involved in celebrating the Allman Brothers Band through the Friends of the Brothers, but what made you come back and write “Brothers and Sisters?” Did you feel like something missing from “One Way Out,” or was there just a different story you wanted to tell?
Paul: It’s not so much missing from “One Way Out” as… it came out of a conversation I had with Brad Tolinski, who was the long-time editor of Guitar World… it just came up and he was just egging me on. I said “I’ve said my Allman Brother piece,” and he said, “No man, there’s more to say.” He was egging me on and said “Look, the 50th anniversary of Brothers and Sisters is coming up and I feel like it’s just still so unexplored.” I started thinking about it and digging into it a bit, and I came to think he was right.
It really was the most popular era, and it holds up really well. It’s not like it’s being such an era piece that it’s an embarrassment now… and yet it was an era that was largely forgotten, even by the band’s biggest fans.
NYSM: Of course, Brothers and Sisters is a very influential album. For you, personally, what made you want to pursue writing about it specifically? What does it mean to you?
Paul: When I write these books… I dig in really really deep, so I throw myself into it for a year or two. I really have to like the music, first of all. It also has to be a great story because it is in writing, it is a book. It’s not just like “Oh, this album is great. Isn’t it great?” You can’t say that for hundreds of pages. There has to be a story and a plot. I just found this whole era very intriguing. And again, as I said, it was unusual because it was really popular, really vital, and yet it was sort of unexplored.
Then we had this type of lineup with one guitar and keyboards during this period. The rest of the time they were a two guitar band. I think that is also why fans overlook it, and it ended pretty ugly, which I document pretty thoroughly…. I feel like people ended up focused on the end and the ugliness of the era rather than the beginning of the era and how cool it was.
NYSM: Something that really caught my eye were the interviews, including the never-before-heard interviews by Kirk West. How did you get access to them or find out about their existence?
Paul: Kirk West has been a friend for 30 years… Kirk was the “tour mystic” for the Allman Brothers. The title came about because he was the tour manager, but he did so much more than the average tour manager that he needed a special name… he was their historian or archivist.
He told me that he had been working on a book. At that point it was the early ’90s… he said that he was writing a book on the band and he was doing all of these interviews. I started asking him to write a sample chapter for Guitar World. My thought at that point was that this would be a good story for Guitar World…. He eventually said “I love the idea, but I’m not really a writer and I don’t have time. But I can collaborate on it with someone.” That someone became me.
I called Kirk and asked what he thought about [“Brothers and Sisters”]. He was very enthusiastic, and we would talk about it. Very early in that process, after that, he offered me and said “Would you like to have my interview tapes?” Of course I said yes, and they were a gold mine… it was an honor and a privilege to have access to them.
NYSM: Among those interviews, was there anything that you found, maybe not necessarily surprising, but something that you were just very interested in? A new perspective or something like that?
Paul: I mean, there was so much of that really, that its hard to pinpoint, but there were a specific things that were quite amazing. I had a good relationship with Gregg [Allman] and I interviewed him many many times. There were certain things that you just sort of knew, either because you were told or just knew that they were off-limits… he went there with Kirk.
For instance, the relationship with Cher, I felt I was able to have a real depth to the way I wrote about it… Gregg talked about it so much in ways that he really never did again afterwards. That was one of the things you couldn’t really expect of Gregg. Another one of those things was the drug trial.
The other thing was interviews with a few people who are deceased, including Gregg, but I had a lot of great stuff from Gregg… so there would’ve been ways to get around that. Just for instance, Steve Massarsky… he was their manager, he was the lawyer who came in and helped them sort out the mess that the business had become and take on, ultimately, their manager Phil Walden… [Also] Bill Graham, the great promoter who was very very important to the Allman Brothers, and to the Grateful Dead, and to Watkins Glen.
Paul: Jimmy Carter himself has said many times that he would never have been president without the Allman Brothers… they were central to the whole thing… and that was for a variety of reasons. The most direct, most obvious reason is that they raised a lot of money for him…They really helped raise his profile at a time when he was completely unknown.
[Manager Phil Walden] was an early Carter supporter and he was the one who was crucial in getting these guys behind them. Once they were, they really were all in. It wasn’t just something they threw off, it wasn’t a matter of convenience, and it wasn’t a matter of just pleasing Phil Walden… it was because they really really genuinely like Jimmy Carter.
NYSM: For those that may be interested, in diving into the histories of these iconic bands, where would you advise them to go, and what would you advise them to read, beyond your wonderful biographies?
Paul: So obviously they have to start with my books, but it depends on what their interests are… It’s just like listening to music for me. A lot of people got into the blues because they liked the Allman Brothers… Writing is the same way. If you read my books and you like them, then take the part you like and dig deeper.
I try to write in a way so that you will have a better understanding of music… but also of the era and of other people… that’s my goal, I hope I pull it off. Keep reading, keep digging deeper, whatever the aspect is that is most intriguing to you, read more about it.
On July 29, Alan Paul and Friends of the Brothers will be playing at Summer Jam ’23 at Lincoln Hill Farms, NY to celebrate 50 years since Watkins Glen. It will also feature the Grateful Dead tribute band Terrapin Flyer and The Band tribute The THE BAND Band. Doors open at 3:00 p.m. with a 3:30 p.m. start and tickets are available here.
On July 30, Alan Paul will be at a “Brothers and Sisters” book event at City Winery in NYC, which will feature a book signing, author Q&A, as well as a musical performance featuring Duane Betts, Lamar Williams Jr., Johnny Stachela, Vaylor Trucks, Friends of the Brothers, and more. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with an 8:00 p.m. start. Information and tickets can be found here.
Early 2000’s band Dirty Heads made a stop in Buffalo for their Island Glow Tour on Thursday, July 13 for a sold-out show. The West-Coast rockers brought their Southern California roots to Buffalo Riverworks and completely blew fans away.
The event was stacked with openers including G. Love & Special Sauce, Tropidelic, and Lupe Fiasco. Lupe Fiasco absolutely wooed the crowd when performing his hit records “Battle Scars,” and “The Show Goes On.”
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
Dirty Heads have created a unique sound by mixing hip-hop, reggae, and rock. This dynamic band consists of Jared “Dirty J” Watson, Dustin “Daddy B” Bushnell, Jon Olazabal, Matt Ochoa, David Foral, and Shawn Gonzalez. All the members help establish a layered sound with trumpets, horns, drums, guitar, and keys. Despite the amount of people on stage they still keep large empty space for those with solos to come up front and interact with fans.
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
Up Late With Dirty Heads
Once the clock hit 10:10 the band took over the stage and opened with “Heavy Water” off of their latest album Midnight. Fans ranging from young kids and older folk all showed their dedication not missing a single lyric. This proved to be especially true when Dirty Heads performed a throwback song of theirs “Lay Me Down,” off of their 2012 album Any Port in a Storm.
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
Halfway into the night the lead members even took a pause from their show because the crowd wouldn’t stop cheering. A moment of gratitude was taken in as fans went crazy for a solid 2 minutes. The band acknowledged how special this Buffalo show was. A huge marker in their music career.
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
Nothing got fans rowdier as when Dirty Heads played their track “Vacation” which has gained serious traction over the past few years. The song garnered over 6 billion views and streams across social media platforms making everyone in Riverworks incredibly hyped up. They closed out the night with “Island Glow” in honor of this special tour. Fans were left awaiting for another Dirty Heads show.
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
If you missed Dirty Heads in Buffalo, no worries! Catch their other shows coming nearby at Patchogue and Pittsburgh. The Riverworks venue in the summer is unmatched. Upcoming events there include Sunset Sundays and a Murder Mystery. Get your tickets here.
Photo credit: Maddie McCafferty
Setlist: Heavy Water, Medusa, Bum Bum, Franco Eyed, Silence, That’s All I Need, Life’s Been Good, Vacation, My Sweet Summer, El Dorado, Your Love / Garland / Lay Me Down, John Linen, Burn Slow, Rage, Rescue Me, Oxygen, Moon Tower
Benny The Butcher‘s Black Soprano Family imprint continues to flood the streets. This time, Buffalo native Rick Hyde takes aim with his latest single “Streets Ain’t The Same” in anticipation of his new album, LUPARA. Featuring Benny The Butcher and El Camino on the chorus, the record sees Rick & Benny go-back-and forth while recounting their rise and grind as hustlers. “‘Streets Ain’t The Same’ is self-explanatory in a sense,” explains Rick Hyde. “After the trials and tribulations and losses, it’s just difficult for things to return to normalcy. That’s where we were at on this record,” he continues. “I asked Benny to go back and forth with me and he agreed. We just started speaking our perspectives, no pens, or paper, just pure lyricism. That’s the joy of this record. Long live DJ Shay!”
Slated for an August 4 release, LUPARA will be Rick Hyde’s second BSF project. His 2021 debut, Plates 2, featured a mix of contemporary stars and underground legends the likes of Benny The Butcher, Westside Gunn, A$AP Ferg, G Herbo, Meyhem Lauren and Skyzoo with production from The Alchemist, Harry Fraud, Daringer and the late DJ Shay. Quickly following that up with 2022’s STIMA, Rick Hyde now prepares for the release of his third project in as many years.
Meanwhile, LUPARA will continue the run of a Black Soprano Family release every month of 2023. All in all, Benny and the BSF team continue to make their names heard. In like manner Head Honcho and Griselda mainstay Benny The Butcher continues to take helm of his own label imprint. Much like the blueprint set by Griselda, Benny’s artists are all of a similar street ilk, making for seamless transition into the BSF fold sonically, with Benny featuring in many of his artists songs and projects.
