NYS Music 2023

Category: Rochester

  • In Focus: Counting Crows Bring Banshee Season Tour to Canandaigua

    It was a night to celebrate 90s rock music on Sunday, as Counting Crows brought their Banshee Season Tour to CMAC on Sunday, July 2nd. The concert featured direct support from Dashboard Confessional.  

    It’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years since Counting Crows burst onto the music scene, releasing their multi-platinum debut album August and Everything After in 1993.  The California natives have gone on to release seven more studio albums, along with numerous live albums. 

    Fronted by Adam Duritz (vocals), the band also features David Bryson (guitar), Charlie Gillingham (keyboards), Dan Vickery (guitar, pedal steel), David Immergluck (guitars), Jim Bogios (drugs) and Millard Powers (bass guitar).   The band is touring in support of their latest release, Butter Miracle Suite One (2021).

    Heavy showers swept across the concert facility minutes before gates opened on Sunday evening.  This did not deter a passionate fan base from arriving early to take in opener Dashboard Confessional.  Originally the solo-acoustic project of Chris Carrabba, it would morph into a full band in 2002, as Carrabba was asked to perform on MTV Unplugged. The added bandmates allowed Carrabba’s songwriting to take on new depths and sounds. 

    Just after 7:30, Carrabba and his band mates took to the stage, and were met with a heavy cheer from the audience. The band launched into the upbeat “Don’t Wait”, which delivered a call and echo vocals, to with the audience enthusiastically obliged. From there the band would perform “The Sharp Hint of New Tears”, a song from Carrabba’s 2000 debut release (with lyrics that showcase the origin of the band’s name). Once known for writing acoustic emo rock, with themes centering around heartbeat and loss, Carrabba and his mates delivered a 60 minute set, spanning the band’s twenty year catalog and was filled with songs of hope and self-triumph. The band would close out their set with perhaps their biggest hit, the high energy “Hands Down”, which saw his band mates jumping and leaping around the stage.

    As the 9pm hour approached, a pedal steel guitar was wheeled to stage left. Moments later, the house lights would dim and Duritz and his bandmates took to the stage. A lone spotlight illuminated guitarist Dan Vickery as he began to pluck the hauntingly familiar guitar riff to “Round Here”, one of the band’s most well known songs. Additional lights would slowly illuminate the remaining members of the band as Duritz moved to the center of the stage to start delivering his poetic lyrics, at times acting out key moments in the song. As the song built on energy and emotion, the audience became engaged, belting out lyrics. The band continued to build on the energy and emotion, following up with the upbeat “Hard Candy” and then the familiar “Mr. Jones”.

    While the band’s set would lean heavily on music from their early years, Duritz didn’t hide his excitement when they would perform tracks of the band’s latest two releases. Tracks like “God of Ocean Tides” and “The Tall Grass” hit home with the audience as well as the band’s early hits. The later portion of the band’s set saw them perform their latest release Butter Miracle Suite One in entirety. They would conclude the main set with the familiar classic “Long December” which saw the grounds illuminate with cell phone lights and erupted into an audience sing along.

    Crowd pleas for an encore would be obliged by the band, as they would return to the stage and deliver a four song encore. Returning to the stage with “Time and Time Again,” a beautiful track of their debut release, Duritz’s voice proved to be strong as ever, as the chorus echoed through out the center. Chris Carrabba and his band would join the Counting Crows for the next piece of the encore, Dashboard Confessional’s 2006 hit “So Long, So Long” which saw Duritz provide a guest vocal appearance on the studio recording. Carrabba would return the vocal favor on the next song, trading lyrics with Duritz on the hit “Hangin’ Around”. Fans flocked to the aisles to sing and dance along, as Carrabba and Duritz bounced around the stage, singing and triumphantly trading high-fives with fans.

    Counting Crows ‘Banshee Season’ Tour – CMAC, Canandaigua, NY – July 2, 2023

    Setlist: Round Here, Hard Candy, Mr. Jones, Colorblind, Butterfly in Reverse, Omaha, Catapult, God of Ocean Tides, Friend of the Devil, Goodnight Elisabeth / Pale Blue Eyes, The Tall Grass, Elevator Boots, Angel of 14th Street, Bobby and the Rat-Kings, Rain King, A Long December

    Encore: Time & Time Again, So Long, so long, Hanginaround, Holiday in Spain

  • Toad The Wet Sprocket has Good Intentions for Canandaigua

    Back in the day when Drakkar was the go-to scent for young men and the smell of clove cigarettes was the norm, Toad the Wet Sprocket was becoming a household name. On June 22, they brought their sounds to Lincoln Hill Farms, a small rustic backwoods venue just outside of Canandaigua.

    Opening up for TTWS was Marcy Playground. Back in 1996, Marcy Playground was riding the merry-go-round waiting for a big break. They were awarded that break when they were invited to tour with Toad. 27 years later, here they are on tour together again.

    Marcy Playground is fronted by John Wozniak, Shlomi Lavie on drums, and Dylan Keefe on bass. On this night, Keefe could not make the trip so Scot Alexander of Dishwalla filled in and crushed it as if he were in the band for years. Of course the fans knew every word to every song and came close to overpowering Wozniak’s voice on Sex And Candy.

    Setlist for Marcy Playground: Poppies, Pigeon Farm, Rock and Roll Heroes, Special, Saint Joe on the School Bus, Rebel Sodville, A Cloak of Elvenkind, Punk Rock Superstar, Wave Motion Gun, Sherry Fraser, Deadly Handsome Man, Sex and Candy, Star Baby

    Formed in the late 80s, Toad the Wet Sprocket is named after a Monty Python skit when the band needed a name so they could enter a talent contest. Although the band called it temporary and a joke, the name has stuck.

    Lead singer Glen Phillips smooth voice can transition into any style flawlessly, so it makes sense to see his style described as folky and alt-pop. Songs like “Good Intentions” and “All I Want” are great examples of both pop and alternative sounds, while a song like “I Will Not Take These Things for Granted” yields a more folk sound.

    Another folk style song from Phillips was “Transient Whales,” which he performed acoustically using a 50s style microphone to enhance the sound. Trucking along flawlessly, he forgot some lyrics but thanks to fan in the front row, he was able to get back on track and finish it out.

    Minus the aforementioned scents and a parking lot of full of Ford Tempos and Chevy Cavaliers, Toad took fans back to the 90s with hits such as “Walk on The Ocean,” “All I Want,” and “Good Intentions.” The respectable crowd of near middle-aged parents danced around like they were still in high school partying at the Saturday night bonfires.

    While they have not been producing new music on regular basis, the band released Starting Now in August of 2021 the title track and “Old Habits Die Hard” released in September and October of same year. Keep up to date with Toad the Wet Sprocket here.

    Setlist: Windmills, Come Down, California Wasted, Crowning, Hold On, Nanci, Whatever I Fear, All I Want, Transient Whales, Good Intentions, Closer to Fine (Indigo Girls), The Moment, Dam Would Break, Fly From Heavan, Pray Your Gods, Nightingale Song, Crazy Life, Something’s Always Wrong, Walk On The Ocean, Fall Down, I Will Not Take These Things For Granted

  • 20 Must-See Artists for the 20th Edition of the CGI Rochester International Jazz Fest

    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.”

    rochester jazz fest

    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!

  • Country On Tour continues for Luke Bryan at Darien Lake

    Luke Bryan gets his Country On at Darien Lake as his 4 month long tour makes stop in Western NY. Coming off a boisterous and packed house in Syracuse, Bryan coasted into Darien Lake Theme Park with special guests Alana Springsteen (no relation to the famous New Jersey guy), Chayce Beckham, and Tyler Braden.

    With over 15 million album sales under his belt, 30 #1 hits, and 20 billion streams, the native of Georgia is no stranger to success and the crowds that come with it. The packed house at this Live Nation venue in Corfu, NY was proof of that as the crowd was on their feet for his entire set, singing along to nearly every word.

    Opening the night for Bryan was Alana Springsteen. Newer to the music scene, Springsteen has released a few EPs since her debut in 2019, and in July 2023 will be releasing TWENTY SOMETHING: Figuring It Out. The first single, “When We Were Friends”, was just released this week and of course she belted it out for the crowd at Darien Lake. The song is about hardships among friends which many can and will relate to.

    Used to wear each other’s sneakers // Get drunk behind the bleachers // Raise some hell, but we always said amen // I knew who you were kissin’ // What tattoo you were gettin’ // Now I don’t even know how you’ve been // Truth is, I miss when // When we were friends

    A little Miranda Lambert, a little Chirstina Aguilera, and a whole lot of fire, Springsteen sang her heart our for about 25 minutes, preparing the fans for who was following her.

    To learn about this rising star, click here Alana Springsteen

    Next up to the stage, came Chayce Beckham. Imagine being a forklift operator and deciding to enter a singing competition on national television. Imagine being told by Katy Perry that you “sound like the heart of America”. Imaging singing a song you wrote and having that be the reason you won American Idol. This was the path that led Chayce Beckham to where he is now. He no longer is a forklift operator.

    Serenading young and old alike, Beckham confidently kicked some ass on this stage, getting some hand shakes and fist bumps from fans. Sultry voice, with some slicked back hair, thoughts of early Johnny Cash, and maybe some Chris Isaak are sure to enter your mind as this 27 year old belts out lyrics from his song “23”

    Following Beckham, Tyler Braden strutted around on the stage for another 25 minute set. The former firefighter has been raising eyebrows for about 7 years as he makes his presence know. Go watch him on stage for one set, and you will be forever hooked. Luke Combs-esque looks and smooth vocals will make Braden a household name very soon.

    Where the longnecks don’t get hot in our hands
    The bar keeps doublin’ down on doubles
    It ain’t hard to find a little trouble

    Neon Grave – Tyler Braden

    Released in early 2023, Neon Grave is the latest EP that features the title track along with “Try Losing One”, “Middle Man,” “Wrong Right Now,” and “Choose Me,” Check out more of Tyler Facebook

    I first saw Luke Bryan about 10 years ago. I don’t recall much of the night, honestly, but that story isn’t for publication. What I do recall is that Bryan got the crowd jumping, hooting and hollering immediately and never let off the gas. This night was no different in that regard.

    From his first notes of “Kick The Dust Up” to his last notes of “Light it Up” Bryan had the entire seated crowd of 6400 and the extras in the lawn up and dancing around. The glow of cell phone screens filled the amphitheater and the subtle smells of vapes, pot, and spilled beer were prevalent as Luke was “Knockin Boots” on stage for close to 2 hours.

    Starting around 905, the stage and house lights went dark as the crowd suddenly erupted in massive screams and cheers. We heard a little mash up of Luke Bryan songs as the curtains were pulled back and light filled the stage with light and finally Luke Bryan as he started off his set with a “Kick The Dust Up”

    Along with his infamous dance moves and thought-provoking lyrics, Luke Bryan shows also boast quite a picture/light show throughout his performances. Each song is paired perfectly with proper graphics and/or light shows on large screens behind him. “Roller Coaster”, an appropriate theme for this venue, displays large coaster on the backdrop, complete with matching sounds. Other songs like “I Don’t Want This Night to End” show clips from music videos. While “Country On”, Luke’s most recent chart topper, the screen becomes an ode to service people.

    With that song coming to an end, Luke called out Shannon from the pit area and brought her up on stage with him has he thanked her husband for his active duty service. Of course, this can’t be done without a surprise, right? Shannon’s husband Jeff came out from back stage and was welcomed by not only Shannon but the rambunctious crowd. Chants of USA were heard throughout the seating area. Very touching moment that brought tear to many eyes.

    As Bryan continued playing until nearly 11pm, the fans kept getting louder and more active as they were dancing in all the aisles. As much as the ushers tried, these active fans were not clearing out. Ushers near me eventually gave in and began dancing along to the music.

    Having been signed to music labels since 2017, Luke spent time prior to that writing songs for the likes of Travis Tritt and Billy Currington. With this experience, Bryan has nearly 40 musical awards, 10 headliner tours, and has played countless festivals and spring break events. Its no wonder why he has become one of the most famous acts in country music history. Keep up Luke as he continues his current tour and his subsequent ones. Farm Tour 2023 (lukebryan.com)

    Setlist: Kick the Dust Up, What Makes You Country, Knockin’ Boots, Roller Coaster, But I Got a Beer in My Hand, Strip it Down, Rain is a Good Thing, Games, Country On, One Margarita, Sunrise/Sunburn/Sunset, Huntin’/Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day, I Don’t Want This Night to End, Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye, Buy Dirt (Jordain Davis), Play it Again, What She Wants Tonight, Down to One, I See You, Light It Up, Country Girl (Shake it For Me), That’s My Kind of Night

    Photos by JM Photography

    Young fan waiting for Luke to take the stage
    Chayce Beckham
    Chayce Beckham
    Chase Beckham
    Alana Springsteen
    Alana Springsteen
    Alana Springsteen drummer
    Tyler Braden
    Tyler Braden
    Tyler Braden
    Tyler Braden

  • Rock the Locks Brings Bands and History to Albany, Buffalo, Rochester

    Nine bands will be playing as a part of “Rock the Locks,” a rock and roll showcase with six shows near three Upstate NY cities: Albany, Buffalo, and Rochester. The shows will take place on July 7, July 8, Aug. 4, and Aug. 5.

    Rock the Locks events are being presented by Rockin’ Rochester Productions, Hey Greasy! and Yace Booking. Each of the three cities has three bands playing, and each has two events. The three groups of bands switch between cities for the different dates, excluding the city that they are native to.

    The name is a callback to the Erie Canal, which passes by all three cities. Locks 1 and 2 are near one end in Albany, locks 65 and 66 near Rochester, and locks 67-71 near Buffalo in Lockport. Locks were used to raise and lower boats traveling through the canal, and were a key part of the system’s infrastructure. Mules were often used to pull boats along, with mules and canal boats pictured in the Rock the Locks promotional material.

    Albany

    Taking place across the river in Troy at No Fun, the two concerts here will be on July 8 and Aug. 5, with doors opening at 7:00 p.m.. The first show will feature Thee Isolators, The Evil Things, and The Burkharts, with the second show featuring Aweful Kanawful, Low Spirits, and Jazz Goons.

    The tickets are $10 for advanced payment and $13 at the door. More information can be found on No Fun’s website.

    Buffalo

    At Nietzsche’s in Buffalo, the concerts will be on Friday, July 7 and Saturday, Aug. 5. For the Friday show, doors will open at 9:00 p.m., with the show starting at 10:00 p.m.. Bands on that day will include Aweful Kanawful, Low Spirits, and Jazz Goons. For the Saturday show, doors will open at 8:00 p.m., with the show starting at 9:00 p.m.. Bands on that day will include Flavour, Abysmals, and Safety Meeting.

    For both dates, tickets are $10. More information can be found on Nietzsche’s website.

    Rochester

    The two concerts in Rochester will be held at Lux on July 7 and on Aug. 4, starting at 10:00 p.m.. For the first show, Flavour, Abysmals, and Safety Meeting will be featured. For the second show, Thee Isolators, The Evil Things, and The Burkharts will be featured.

    Tickets are $5 for both dates. More information can be found on Lux’s website.

  • The Hold Steady Present Positive Jam Music Festival at Arrowood Farm

    This summer, Brooklyn based rock band, The Hold Steady will be presenting an all-star music festival, Positive Jam. The inaugural event will be held on August 5th at Arrowood Farms, a local festival hot spot in the small town and agricultural hub of Accord, New York.

    The Positive Jam festival will serve as another commemoration of the rock band’s 20 year anniversary which passed this January. On top of the band headlining the event themselves, they will be joined by a line up of close friends and idols including, Guided By Voices, The Tallest Man On Earth, Laura Stevenson, I Get Wild (plays Talking Heads), and Oceanator.

    The event, presented in association with Impact Concerts and Ground Control Touring, will kick off at 5 PM on August 4th with THS Positive Jam Prelims Pool Party. The welcome gathering will be located at the INNESS Luxury Hotel and Resort and will feature DJ sets from The Hold Steady along with a collection of fun activities for festival goers to participate in.

    On the 5th, the star-studded lineup will be accompanied by Arrowood Farms locally inspired craft beers and comfort food, along with diverse Hudson Valley-based food trucks, clothing, and arts vendors.

    Positive Jam is just one event of a multitude of planned appearances by the rock band for the summer and autumn of 2023. The Hold Steady will play their live show at various locations across the country and will appear in their home-base of Brooklyn four times.

    Their landmark 20th anniversary will further be commemorated by the upcoming publication of The Gospel of The Hold Steady: How a Resurrection Really Feels, a new oral history by Michael Hann and The Hold Steady, which will be available to the public on July 25.

    “We’ve talked about our ideal festival for many years, and we’re excited to make it a reality to celebrate our 20th year as a band,” says The Hold Steady frontman Craig Finn. “We are thrilled to have some of our favorite artists joining us to make an incredible day of music and community in a beautiful location.”

    Ticket pre-sales for Positive Jam are now open for purchase with the password: PROGRESS. General sales will be available Friday, June 2nd at 10 AM. You can find further details about the festival and ticket options here. 

    The Hold Steady – LIVE 2023

    June 3 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater

    June 28 – Louisville, KY – WFPK Waterfront Wednesday (FREE SHOW)

    June 30 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed (SOLD OUT)

    July 1 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed (SOLD OUT)

    July 2 – Chicago, IL – Empty Bottle (SOLD OUT)

    July 29 – Newport, RI – Newport Folk Festival

    August 4 – Accord, NY – Positive Jam Prelims Pool Party @ INNESS Luxury Hotel and Resort

    August 5 – Accord, NY – The Hold Steady Presents Positive Jam

    September 2 – St. Paul, MN – Minnesota State Fair

    September 22 – Jersey City, NJ – White Eagle Hall

    September 23 – Philadelphia, PA – XPoNential Music Festival

    October 7 – Las Vegas, NV – Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas

    October 8 – Las Vegas, NV – Bowling/Football Watch Party @ Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas

    November 29 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl

    November 30 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl

    December 1 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl

    December 2 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl

  • Five Can’t-Miss Shows in Rochester Area This June

    In Rochester, there are nine days in June that are, for many, the richest nine days of live music on the calendar, named the Rochester International Jazz Fest. But we’ll get to that in a separate post. There’s plenty of other live music to go around this month, so let’s get right to it!

    June 8, Deer Tick at Lincoln Hill Farms

    It’s summer, outdoor shows are king, and most of the outdoor venues are not in Rochester proper. So excuse us if we jump a little bit outside Monroe County here. Lincoln Hill Farms is a great little spot in Canandaigua, and with Dan Small Presents picking up the booking duties their calendar is filling out nicely. One show that has caught our particular attention is this little rock band that could from Providence, Deer Tick. They haven’t played these parts in a bit. Combining superb songwriting with reckless barroom energy, they’ll show you a great time. Rafay Rashid will open the show.

    The music will start at 630pm and tickets are $30.

    June 10, Surprise Chef at Photo City Music Hall

    Australia is exporting some fantastic music these days, across most any genre you can think of. Surprise Chef, a quintet out of Melbourne, is churning out some seriously good instrumental soul-funk like you’d expect from deep in Brooklyn or deep in the South. Catch their twist on things in their Rochester debut. Alanna Royale will open the show.

    Music gets started around 8pm and tickets are $15.

    June 11, The Wood Brothers at Perinton Center Park Amphitheater

    If you’ve seen live music at the Perinton Amphitheater before it was likely of the free community concert variety. But this year Rochester Events is trying it out as a big show venue, starting with Collective Soul on June 1. A week and a half later Rochester faves The Wood Brothers will grace the stage. Ever since a couple of raucous barn burners at the aforementioned Rochester International Jazz Fest some Junes ago, they’ve made Rochester a regular stop. Needless to say, many barns have been burned. They are returning again with another excellent new album in tow. Shovels and Rope open up this time around.

    Show starts at 7pm and tickets are $39.50.

    June 26, David Murray and Kahlil El’Zabar at Bop Shop Records

    Jazz Fest is not the only time of year to catch world-class jazz in Rochester. And even during Jazz Fest, it isn’t the only place to catch world-class jazz. Case in point, Bop Shop Records, one of the best places to catch adventurous music all year round, is bringing back the great Kahlil El’Zabar, who has appeared there so many times, he must be dubbed the Rusted Root of the Bop Shop (iykyk). This time around he is joined by the legendary tenor saxophonist, and his friend of over 40 years, David Murray. Together they are called the Golden Seas Duo and this is a golden opportunity to have your mind blown.

    Show will get started at 8pm and tickets are $25/$30 dos.

    June 30, Budos Band at Photo City Music Hall

    Tying this whole post up in a neat little bow, here is another instrumental soul band at Photo City Music Hall, another Jazz Fest alumnus, and another great jazz show butting up against Jazz Fest. Budos Band will probably start up late enough to come check it out after your Jazz Fest fun though, so we’d suggest partaking in both. Budos Band is on the supreme Daptone Records label and is one of the best things on the label. Heavy, funky, soulful, and as with everything else on this list, not to be missed! Sisters of Your Sunshine Vapor get the show started.

    Doors open at 7pm and tickets are $26.

  • Post Malone Returns to the States for ‘If Ya’ll Weren’t Here I’d Be Crying’ Tour

    Diamond-selling, pop superstar Post Malone will return to the United States with another leg of the “If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying” Tour. This announcement follows his highly successful trek across the U.S. and Canada last year and another stop in Europe for his long-awaited “Twelve Carat Tour.” However, the 10-time Grammy nominee returns to America to give fans his signature exhilarating performance, along with music from his upcoming album as well as fan-favorites in a completely reimagined show.  

    Produced by Live Nation, the 24-date run kicks off in Noblesville, IN, on July 8, and includes a stop at Darien Lake Amphitheater in Darien Center, NY, on Monday, July 17, 2023.

    “I love y’all so very much and I’m so excited to get out and do some more shows for y’all. Help me put a baby through college and come on out. Some cool new production, new songs, and a very very handsome man up on stage. Sending love to you and yours.” Says Post Malone.

    Along with the tour announcement, Post has revealed the released date for his long-awaited fifth full-length album. Titled, Austin, the project will arrive on July 28, with Post releasing the single “Mourning,” in anticipation.

    Tickets for the tour can be found on the Live Nation’s website, although the tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, access to the World Pong League VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP gift items and more. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

  • Rochester Canalside Summer Concert Series Returns With Eagles Tribute Band And Local Artists

    The Dawn Lipson Canalside outdoor Concert Series at the Rochester Jewish Community Center recently released its summer lineup. Acts include everything from legendary tribute shows to original music by local acts.

    Originally born out of the Covid pandemic, the concert series is in its third season of music and events. The covered tent venue holds hundreds of visitors with the option to expand for larger performances. 

    Something new coming to the venue is the “Music Mondays” series which features two local Rochester musicians at every event. The series also begins with an open mic segment to start each evening.  

    More events are expected to be announced soon. The full concert series can be found here.

    Summer Schedule

    June 3- Chris Wilson & Bryan Ayers: A Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel 

    Upstate New York singers Chris Wilson and Brian Ayers celebrate the music of legendary duo Simon and Garfunkel. 

    June 10- Bad Sneakers: The Music of Steely Dan and Donald Fagen 

    Bad Sneakers is a Rochester based band that includes current and past members of Hard Logic, Prime Time Funk, Goodness, The Klick, The Bill Tiberio Band, and The Earthtones. The infectious groove they lay down, along with their precise and dedicated approach to the music will have diehard, as well as new, Steely Dan fans smiling from the first note.

    June 15- Thank You For The Music: ABBA’s Greatest Hits 

    Packed with your favorite tunes and featuring a crew of amazing singers and musicians, this tribute to the internationally beloved Swedish supergroup was created exclusively for the JCC Concert Series by Jessica Ann Best. 

    June 17- Philadelphia Freedom: The Ultimate Elton John Tribute

    Philadelphia Freedom prides itself on being the most realistic Elton John tribute currently touring. Doug Delescavage is Elton John as he was in his 20s, full of joy and unlimited energy,  his top notch band through all the hits of Elton’s career. 

    July 9- The Eaglez: Western New York’s Eagles’ Tribute Band 

    The Eaglez are Western New York’s own Eagles’ tribute band. The group pays particular attention to the rich harmony vocals that the legendary Eagles are famous for. An Eaglez concert features not only the Eagles’ biggest hits, but also solo songs written and recorded by Joe Walsh, Glenn Frey, and Don Henley.

    July 22- Public Water Supply

    Public Water Supply is an Alt. Country/Indie Rock act out of Rochester. PWS consists of five university-trained musicians, blending distinctive songwriting, spectacular vocals, and incredible instrumentalists. The members include: Iggy Marino, frontman; Adrianna Noone, lead singer; Karis Gregory, Jr., lead guitar; Alex Brophy, team captain and bass; and Spencer Kornrich, bus driver and drums. PWS dropped their debut self-titled album earlier this year. 

    July 23- Ronstadt Revue

    Linda Ronstadt, an 11-time Grammy winner who has sold over 100 million albums in country, rock, Latin, Motown, and even Broadway music, is no longer performing publicly. Fortunately, her musical legacy now lives on through Gesenia and her Ronstadt Revue. Every Ronstadt Revue show features performances in both English and Spanish, and covers every musical genre of Ms. Ronstadt’s 40+ year career. Two of Ronstadt’s own band members are currently co-producing and featured on the upcoming Ronstadt Revue album. 

    July 30- The Joint is Jumpin’: Songs of the Harlem Renaissance 

    Music historian Michael Lasser, singers Connie Fredericks Malone, and Reuben J. Tapp, and accompanist Scott Bradley celebrate the centennial of The Harlem Renaissance. Rediscover this historic time period by listening to the songs of Duke Ellington and Thomas “Fats” Waller.

    August 17- Both Sides Now: The Music of Joni Mitchell

    Singer and songwriter Kelly Shapiro is joined by musicians Mike Shapiro and Siena Facciolo for a deep dive into the songbook of the legendary Joni Mitchell.

    Music Mondays

    June 5- Marshay Dominique and Miriam Morelli 

    June 12- Sarah DeValliere and Emily Champion

    July 10- Kelly Izzo Shapiro and Levi Gangi 

    July 24- Cami Enaharo and Chris Wilson 

    August 7- Kara Fink and Bret Levick

    August 21- Brian McCormick, Jerry Falzone, and Lou Sweigman 

  • Baked Shrimp Summer Tour 2023 Stretches to the Midwest and South, July dates across NYS

    The prog/jam sounds of Baked Shrimp will be found across the Midwest, South and Northeast this summer, with six July shows lined up across New York State. The Long Island power trio will perform in Alexandria Bay, Rochester, Cortland, Patchogue, Manhattan and Schtagatoke, including festival appearances and a Phish pre-show.

    Baked Shrimp’s Summer Tour runs for 40+ shows and pushes the workhorse trio to west of the Mississippi for the first time in their six-year career. The band will perform at major festivals including Peach Music Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival, Strange Creek Camp Out, Northlands Live, and more. An additional round of dates will be announced in June.

    Tickets and more are available here.

    Baked Shrimp Summer Tour 2023

    05/19 – Big Rail Brewing – Grove City, PA

    05/20 – Sunny Days – Garrettsville, OH

    05/21 – Cadieux Cafe – Detroit, MI

    05/23 – Stanley’s Pub – Cincinnati, OH

    05/24 – Summit Music Hall – Columbus, OH

    05/26 – Summer Camp Music Festival – Chillicothe, IL

    05/28 – Strange Creek Camp Out – Greenfield, MA

    06/02 – Kaycee Rays – Vineland, NJ

    06/03 – FUNKyFest – Gibbon Glade, PA

    06/04 – Live at The Shop – Dunbar, WV

    06/06 – Smiths Olde Bar – Atlanta, GA

    06/07 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC

    06/08 – One World Brewing – Asheville, NC

    06/09 – Stock & Grain – High Point, NC

    06/10 – North Street Press Club – Farmville, VA

    06/17 – Northlands – Swanzey, NH

    06/29-07/04 – Peach Music Festival – Scranton, PA

    07/07 – Wonder Bar – Asbury Park, NJ

    07/08 – Big Cult Brewing – Stevensville, MD

    07/09 – Elevation 27 – Virginia Beach, VA

    07/14 – Red Square – Burlington, VT

    07/15 – Riverboat Bar – Alexandria Bay, NY

    07/20 – Flour City Station – Rochester, NY

    07/21 – Cortland Main Street Music Series – Cortland, NY

    07/22 – Great South Bay Music Festival – Patchogue, NY

    07/28 – Stitch Bar & Blues – New York, NY (Phish Pre-Party)

    07/29 – Ryebread Music & Arts Festival – Schaghticoke, NY

    08/01 – The Cameron House – Toronto, ON

    08/04 – Miles of Music Festival – Appleton, WI

    08/05 – Miles of Music Festival – Appleton, WI

    08/06 – The BackRoom at Colectivo – Milwaukee, WI

    08/08 – Day Block Brewing – Minneapolis, MN

    08/12 – Paducah Beer Werks – Paducah, KY

    08/13 – Mellwood Tavern – Louisville, KY

    08/14 – Preservation Pub – Knoxville, TN

    08/15 – Preservation Pub – Knoxville, TN

    08/17 – Shaka Beer Garden – Hampstead, NC

    08/18 – Jimmy’s – Wrightsville Beach, NC

    08/19 – Bowstring Brewyard – Raleigh, NC