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  • The View Center in Old Forge Hosts Performances and much more Throughout the Summer

    The View Center For Arts and Culture in Old Forge has been attracting visitors to the Adirondacks since it was founded in 1951. This summer, the organization has once again put together a diverse and enticing set of summer performances.

    The View Center’s free “Concerts in the Courtyard Series” is one of the various programs and events that attendees can enjoy during the summer months. Now in its fourth season, the series is focused on highlighting local and regional artists. Concerts are scheduled for every Wednesday from June 28 to August 3. The performances will run from 5 PM to 6:30 PM and will take place at the View Center courtyard. 

    As part of its mission, the View Center aims to continuously explore and exhibit the ever-changing nature of art. This year’s series bolsters a variety of different artists from a wide array of genres. Concert-goers will be able to enjoy folk, rock, pop, blues and jazz offerings. 

    In addition to the free concert series, there will also be a handful of paid performances by several talented musicians. Pianist Ben Cosgrove will perform at the first of these events scheduled for July 2. 

    Ben Cosgrove

    Along with the plethora of live music events this summer, the View Center also exhibits and displays impactful visual art. The View Center acts as a community space, dedicated to being an inspiring artistic force in the area. The organization offers numerous classes and opportunities for those in the surrounding area in an attempt to excite the next generation of artists. 

    Here for more details about the performances. 

    Summer Concert Schedule 

    June 28- Jeffrey Dupra- 5 PM

    July 2- Ben Cosgrove- 3 PM (PAID)

    July 5- The Cadleys- 5 PM

    July 12- Joe Bolton & Mary Brophy-Moore- 5PM

    July 19- The Bobcats- 5 PM

    July 20- Shades of Bublé: A Three-Man Tribute to Michael Bublé- 7:30 PM (PAID)

    July 26- The Fabulous Mojos- 5 PM

    August 2- Monk Rowe and John Hutson- 5 PM 

    August 3- Martin and Kelly Band- 7:30 PM (PAID)

    August 9- Paris Hill Brass Quintet- 5 PM

    August 10- Missy Raines & Allegheny- 7:30 PM (PAID)

    August 16- Blessid Dirt- 5 PM

    August 17- The Seven Wonders- 7:30 (PAID)

    August 23- Ryan Quinn- 5 PM 

    August 30- TBD- 5 PM

    August 31- John Lloyd Young- 7:30 PM (PAID)

    September 10- The Music of Lerner & Loewe- 3 PM (PAID)

    September 14- Newberry and Verch- 7:30 (PAID)

  • Playhouse Stage Company Celebrates 35th Anniversary Season with Something Rotten

    Beginning June 29, Playhouse Stage Company will present their 36th Anniversary musical production Something Rotten at Albany’s Park Playhouse, a Renaissance-set comedy about a down-on-his-luck writer trying to best William Shakespeare by writing the world’s first musical. The production plays Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm from June 29 through July 22. Playhouse Stage Company will hold an opening night Gala pre-show on June 29, where they will make a special announcement.

    Playhouse Stage Company has been producing free summer musicals at Albany’s Park Playhouse in Washington Park since 1989, producing musicals year-round at Cohoes Music Hall since 2016, and took the reins as management of the historic Spindle City venue in 2020.  

    The Broadway premiere of Something Rotten took place in 2015, and it garnered a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Musical while enjoying a successful two-year run. The book is written by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick, with a score and lyrics by Karey & Wayne Kirkpatrick.

    The story follows the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who struggle to find success in the theatrical world as they compete with the wild popularity of their pompous contemporary, “The Bard,” William Shakespeare. When Nick Bottom visits a Soothsayer to discover what the hottest thing in theatre will be in the future, he sets out to write a musical with disastrous results. The show sparks comparison to other bawdy, raucous Broadway comedies including Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Book of Mormon, and Mel Brooks’ The Producers. In an homage to its Renaissance setting, Time Out NY called the show “the funniest musical in at least 400 years.”

    The show reunites frequent creative staff collaborators Michael LoPorto (Director), AshleySimone Kirchner (Choreography & Musical Staging), and Brian Axford (Musical Director). Together, the trio have helmed more than a dozen shows for Playhouse Stage. 22 local and regional performers make up the cast, and Axford will lead a twelve-piece band. 12 out of the 22 cast members are graduates of the Playhouse Stage youth theatre program.

    The cast is led by Vincent DiPeri (Nick Bottom), who returns to the Playhouse for the first time in eight years after receiving critical acclaim for his performances in The Producers, Hairspray and othersAlongside DiPeri as Bottom’s nemesis William Shakespeare is Steve Raymond, who won strong reviews in the Playhouse’s productions of SpamalotSpelling Bee and more. Since last appearing on the Playhouse stage, Raymond has developed a significant social media following for his comedy content, with more than three million followers across TikTok, Instagram and other platforms.  Rounding out the cast are Playhouse veterans Molly Rose McGrath (Bea Bottom), Marc Christopher (Nostradomus), Daniel Jameson (Nigel Bottom), Brandon Jones (Brother Jeremiah), and Anna Sprau (Portia), in her PSC debut. 

    Amphitheater lawn seating at Park Playhouse is available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Premium Reserved Seats are now on sale online, by phone and in person. For more information about the show and Playhouse Stage Company, visit their website here, or call the box office at 518-434-0776.

    For media inquiries, to arrange press comps, or to receive production photos and video, please contact Owen Smith, Producing Artistic Director at owen@playhousestage.org or by phone at 518-434-2035, extension 100.

  • New York Based Singer KAZIMI Shares Heartfelt Single “Fever Dream”

    NYC’s indie-pop and folk-rock artist KAZIMI shares the single “Fever Dream,” the second track from her debut album River Run out later this year. The layered percussion is the heartbeat of this single, with drums that are both slinky and sexy, a groove comes across your hips effortlessly.

    The singer-songwriter wrote, “’This is a song about pleasure and craving. About wanting something (someone) so bad that the desire seeps into your every moment, coloring everything you see. That obsession, that need, that want. Bodies seeking bodies.” 

    “I never sat down to make a record. I don’t think I would’ve started if I had.” 

    -KAZIMI

    For most of her life, KAZIMI played music alone and in secret. She crafted songs as a way to work through life’s peaks and valleys but they were never meant to be shared. When the world stopped, something in her changed and that change led to the writing and recording of her debut album, River Run

    The New York-based singer-songwriter offers up her personal brand of indie-folk with tracks that explore the trials of being a living, breathing human: betrayal and heartbreak, pleasure and resilience, the death of loved ones, and the rebirth of self. With a soundscape that drifts effortlessly between dreamy, seductive, cinematic, and folky, River Run is as evocative in its style as it is in its storytelling. 

    The indie-folk (although very different it’s also somewhat reminiscent of John Grant, don’t you think?) artist deals with the myriad layers of the human condition as a way of wrestling with difficulties. 

    – Americana UK

    For KAZIMI, the project was an opportunity to dethrone the internal demons that lurked in the shadows of her mind. “Part of making music is letting go so there can be space for magic to enter the room, but giving up control is not something that comes easily to me. I had to constantly recenter the importance of making something true over the temptation to chase perfection.”

    The title track was written in an empty hotel lobby in Nashville at the height of quarantine in 2020, “I was driving from Texas to New York. Passing through Memphis, I crossed the Wolf River and something about the name stuck in my mind. That evening I went downstairs and sat at the keys. I hadn’t had a piano to play in 4 months. Over the course of the time I wrote the song, I never saw another person. No other guests, no staff. Just me alone in a hotel, singing to the walls,” she says.

    Swimming in the depths and then soaring through the clouds, the record traces the journey of a path unknown. The very act of making it, says KAZIMI, is a victory. “I am following what makes me feel most alive, even though I don’t know where it will lead. I found an ember and I held it close. I blew on it until a fire burst forth.” 

    For more music by KAZIMI, click here

  • Recording Studios in the Capital Region

    In the Capital Region of New York State, there are numerous recording studios that provide aspiring musicians with a space to record their music and help artists in their efforts to one day make it big in the music industry. Across Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Schenectady, you’ll find a great selection of studios to support musicians, artists, and bands from all genres and scenes.

    In Albany, you can find North Albany Studios in the village of Menands, where the handicapped-accessible Studio A comes equipped with a five-piece drum kit, bass amp, guitar amp, lounge facilities, natural light, high ceilings, and green-screen capabilities, and more for making music, film, photography, and theater.

    Studio A of North Albany Studios.

    The SAG-AFTRA-approved Overit Studios in the city of Albany offers film/tv/games, commercial, music, podcast, and audiobook services. The former church is a 2000-square-foot space with 28-foot ceilings, a spacious live room, three isolation booths, and an oversized control room to can accommodate anything from a singer-songwriter to a full band and even a choir.

    Discover Recording Studios from across New York State in Western New York, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Central New York, and New York City.

    Capital Mixers Recording Studios in Albany County offers professional recording, mixing, mastering, and more services to recording artists, Musicians, DJs, bands, and record labels worldwide. It has three studios, A, B, and C, and a podcast and film studio.

    DJ mixing at Capital Mixers Recording Studios.

    Albany’s AAA Recording Studio C offers recording services for all kinds of musical acts solo artists, small combos, acoustic acts, acapella groups, rock bands, and full-on Big Band groups.

    A drum set in AAA Recording Studio C.

    White Lake Music and Post in Albany offers four studios for singers to produce music in. The studio has produced, recorded, and mixed multiple Billboard Top 40 singles and provided audio services for clients including Netflix, Discovery, Lifetime, Universal, Disney, Nickelodeon, HBO, and numerous others.

    For over 20 years, the hamlet of Delmar, in the Albany County of Bethlehem, is home to Blue Sky Recording/Music Studios, equipped with a full-service recording studio, private music lessons, music classes, music camps, instrument rentals, and a music store all under one roof for professional musicians, music teachers and students of music in the Capital Region. Its recording facility is the premier studio in the Albany area, offering audio recording, mixing, CD mastering, audio transfers & restoration, music editing, music production, commercials, custom jingles, on-location recording, and much more. Blue Sky also offers music lessons for all ages, levels, and styles on most instruments, music therapy classes, ‘Make the Band’ summer rock band camp, audio engineering classes, and Romper Rhythms classes for babies/toddlers and parents.

    Blue Sky Recording/Music Studio in Albany,

    Don Fury Studio in Troy records music “New York style,” with real drums, real guitars, and real vocals, unedited as if you were right in front, or even on, the stage. “When you hear a record produced at DFS – everything you hear is real.”

    Don Fury Studio in Troy.

    First opened in 2001, Classical Recording Service in Albany County is a popular choice for recording among musicians in Upstate New York. The studio has made thousands of recordings all over the Capital District, including concerts, recitals, and recording sessions. In the capital region, Classical Recording Services has work locations at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall in Troy, the Palace Theatre in Albany, and the Proctors Theater in Schenectady.

    The stage at Classical Recording Services in Albany County.

    The full-service Soundcheck Republic in the Rensselaer County of East Greenbush features state-of-the-art digital and analog recording equipment, providing all the features of a larger studio, acclaimed engineers, and producers.

    A typical studio space in Soundcheck Republic.

    There are among the many recording studios in the Capital Region where aspiring musicians can make their music, on their journey of one day making it big in the music industry. If we missed a recording studio from the greater Albany area, please email editors@nysmusic.com.

  • Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers Expand Fall Tour, Include Stops in NY

    Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers have expanded their forthcoming tour into November, adding ten stops to an already jam-packed fall lineup. The group, which features lifelong collaborators and real-life brothers Victor, Joseph, Roy “Futureman,” and Regi Wooten, recently announced its highly anticipated reunion tour, making stops in NY cities including Troy, Buffalo, and Brooklyn.

    Wooten Brothers

    Lauded by Rolling Stone as one of the “Top 10 Bassists of All Time,” Victor Wooten has captivated audiences for over four decades with his dynamic stage presence and unparalleled technical chops. Wooten’s eclectic repertoire includes collaborations with the likes of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones (of which he is a founding member), Chick Corea, Dave Matthews Band, India Arie, Keb’ Mo’, and more recently, Cory Wong. Widely regarded as one of the greatest living bassists today, Wooten continues to share his passion for music through numerous modalities. The multidisciplinary artist has authored two books and has mentored thousands of students at his own Center for Music and Nature since the year 2000.

    Remarkably accomplished in their own right, each of the Wooten brothers bring a unique flavor to the live experience. Joseph Wooten, also known as the “Hands of Soul,” has been the keyboardist/vocalist for the Steve Miller Band since 1993. He is a renowned composer, arranger, author, and motivational speaker whose collaborations include work with Whitney Houston, George Clinton, and Kenny G.

     Roy “Futureman” Wooten is also a founding member of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and a five-time GRAMMY award winner, famously known for his trademark inventions the “Drumitar” and the “RoyEI” keyboard. A philosopher, researcher, filmmaker, and educator, Roy’s impressive solo career, symphonic works, and “Black Mozart” projects span the genres of classical, jazz, soul, gospel, and spoken word. 

    Regi Wooten’s signature guitar style of chording, slapping, tapping, and virtuosic strumming has earned him worldwide notoriety and comparisons to Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa, and Chuck Berry. In recent years, Regi has performed with many artists including the legendary Ginger Baker. Known worldwide as “The Teacha,” Regi currently teaches music in Nashville, TN, and has taught many notable musicians.

    Wooten Brothers

    Together The Wooten Brothers bring an uncanny level of experience, originality, and expertise to the stage. Playing together since childhood, the formidable group has shared stages with the likes of Curtis Mayfield, The Temptations, Ramsey Lewis, Stephanie Mills, War, and others. Fans can expect an infectious, colorful, and exuberant production that showcases The Wooten Brothers’ impenetrable creative chemistry. An amalgam of original songs and choice classics, each show offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that defies the bounds of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, rock, and bluegrass. 

    On the forthcoming tour, Victor shares, “Being in a band with my brothers is the best thing for me. It’s like a family reunion every time we get together to play. They are my teachers and I feel most at home with them.”This will be the brothers’ first tour together as a band since the untimely death of their saxophone-playing brother Rudy a few years ago. In the forthcoming year, The Wooten Brothers will release their first studio album in several decades. 

    The music we are working on at the moment is a collection of new and old. We have songs that were recorded decades ago that have never been heard by anyone. We also have newer music that was recorded over the last year. It will be a nice collection of old and new. With the older music, we want to introduce the world to Rudy, our saxophone-playing brother who passed away in 2010. Be prepared to have your mind blown.

    The Wooten Brothers

    The forthcoming Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers tour will kick off on Sept. 28 in Chattanooga, TN. For tour dates, tickets, and info, visit here.

    Wooten Brothers

    Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers Tour Dates

    09/28 – Chattanooga, TN – The Barrelhouse Ballroom^

    09/29 – Charlotte, NC – Neighborhood Theatre^

    09/30 – Atlanta, GA – Variety Playhouse^

    10/01 – Asheville, NC – The Outpost^

    10/03 – Troy, NY – Troy Savings Bank Music Hall^

    10/04 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl^

    10/05 – Silver Springs, MD – The Fillmore^

    10/06 – Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live^

    10/07 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Steel^

    10/08 – Portland, ME – State Theatre^

    10/10 – South Burlington, VT – Higher Ground^

    10/11 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues^

    10/12 – Wilkes-Barre, PA – FM Kirby Center^

    10/13 – Roanoke, VA – Jefferson Center

    10/14 – Buffalo, NY – CMC International Jazz Festival

    11/01 – Saint Louis, MO – Delmar Hall

    11/02 – Nashville, TN – Riverside Revival

    11/03 – Germantown, TN – GPAC

    11/04 – Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue

    11/06 – Ann Arbor, MI – The Ark

    11/07 – Cincinnati, OH – Hamilton Memorial Hall

    11/08 – Madison, WI – Majestic Theatre 

    11/09 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line

    11/10 – Evanston, IL – SPACE

    11/11 – Elgin, IL – ECC Arts Center

    01/11 – Denver, CO – Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom

    01/12 – Salt Lake City, UT – The State Room

    01/13 – Hamilton, MT – Bitterroot Performing Arts Council

    01/14 – Bozeman, MT – The Elm

    01/16 – Seattle, WA – The Crocodile

    01/17 – Portland, OR – Revolution Hall

    01/18 – Eugene, OR – The John G. Shedd Institute For The Arts

    01/19 – Chico, CA – The Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewery

    01/20 – Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre

    01/21 – Santa Cruz, CA – Rio Theatre

    01/23 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Tavern

    01/25 – West Hollywood, CA – Troubadour

    ^With Special Guests Rebirth Brass Band

  • In Focus: Ruel brings the “4th Wall World Tour” to Terminal 5

    Ruel, the prodigious Australian singer-songwriter, took the stage by storm at New York City’s renowned Terminal 5, captivating the crowd with his soulful melodies and undeniable talent. This highly anticipated show marked a milestone in Ruel’s career as he embarked on the East Coast leg of the tour. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes filled the air, it was clear that this night would be one for the books. The energy in the venue was palpable as fans eagerly awaited Ruel’s remarkable performance, ready to be swept away by his mesmerizing voice and magnetic stage presence.

    Sam MacPherson, the incredibly talented singer-songwriter, mesmerized the crowd with his captivating opening performance at Terminal 5 in Manhattan. As he stood in the center of the stage belting out soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, he effortlessly commanded the stage, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. MacPherson’s infectious energy and authentic musicality created an intimate and introspective atmosphere, solidifying the connection between performer and listener. Blending elements of folk, pop, and soul, he showcased his versatility as an artist, setting the perfect tone for the night ahead and leaving the crowd hungry for more incredible music. It was a true testament to his talent and a memorable start to an unforgettable evening of live music.

    Ruel, the prodigious 20-year-old singer-songwriter hailing from Australia, has taken the music industry by storm with his undeniable talent and soulful artistry. At a remarkably young age, Ruel’s journey embarked on a meteoric rise when he captured the world’s attention with his debut single “Golden Years” in 2017. This captivating release not only showcased his remarkable vocal prowess but also showcased his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. 

    As he continued to ascend, Ruel’s magnetic presence and introspective songwriting captivated audiences around the globe. With each subsequent release, including his EP Ready in 2018, Ruel solidified his position as a musical prodigy, effortlessly blending genres and delivering poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with fans. 

    Drawing inspiration from his own experiences, Ruel fearlessly explores themes of love, growth, and self-discovery, forging a deeply personal and relatable connection with his audience. With a maturity beyond his years and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Ruel stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the music world, captivating hearts, and minds with his extraordinary talent and unwavering authenticity.

    Ruel’s “4th Wall Tour” reached its pinnacle at Terminal 5 in New York City, delivering an awe-inspiring performance that left the audience in a state of pure musical euphoria. As the anticipation built, the crowd erupted with excitement, ready to embark on a sonic journey led by the prodigious Australian singer-songwriter.

    From the moment Ruel took the stage, the energy was palpable. Opening with the powerful anthem “GROWING UP IS ____,” he immediately captured everyone’s attention with his soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence. The audience was fully immersed in his world as he flawlessly transitioned into the introspective “YOU AGAINST YOURSELF,” where his heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with fans.

    Throughout the night, Ruel showcased his versatility and artistry, effortlessly weaving between his own captivating tracks and surprising covers. The crowd erupted with joy as he delved into unexpected renditions of the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling” and One Direction’s “Night Changes,” infusing them with his own unique style and charm.

    As the show progressed, Ruel’s connection with his fans became undeniable. The venue transformed into a collective sea of voices singing along to every word, creating a powerful sense of unity and shared experience. The atmosphere reached its peak during the poignant performance of “Younger,” a heartfelt song that resonates with audiences of all ages.

    The highlight of the evening came with the spine-tingling rendition of “Painkiller,” where Ruel’s soulful voice soared effortlessly, eliciting a wave of emotions from the crowd. The synergy between Ruel and his band was evident, as they flawlessly executed each song, transporting the audience into a world of musical bliss.

    As the final notes reverberated through the venue, Ruel took a moment to acknowledge the incredible team behind the “4th Wall Tour.” With a list of credits displayed on the screens, from the tour crew to the guitar and PR companies involved, it was a testament to the collaborative effort and dedication that made the tour possible.

    Ruel’s show at Terminal 5 was a tour de force, a testament to his undeniable talent, and a testament to the unwavering support of his fans. It was an unforgettable night filled with electrifying performances, heartfelt moments, and an undeniable connection between the artist and the audience. As the lights dimmed and the crowd dispersed, the echoes of Ruel’s unforgettable performance lingered in the hearts and minds of everyone fortunate enough to be part of this musical journey.

    Ruel Setlist: GROWING UP IS ____, YOU AGAINST YOURSELF, SOMEONE ELSE’S PROBLEM, IF AND/OR WHEN, MUST BE NICE, I Gotta Feeling (Black Eyed Peas cover), Night Changes (One Direction cover), WISH I HAD YOU, golden hour – Ruel Remix (JVKE cover), Flames (SG Lewis cover), SET YOURSELF ON FIRE, SITTING IN TRAFFIC, Dazed & Confused, Younger, Painkiller, I DON’T WANNA BE LIKE YOU

    In terms of upcoming shows, “The 4th Wall World Tour” will be finishing up the North America portion in Los Angeles on July 7th, but the rest of the tour picks back up in August down in Santiago, Chile.

    Updates for any future Ruel shows can be found on socials and his website. The same goes for Sam MacPherson, and you can find his socials and website linked here.

  • Afropunk Brooklyn Returns For Summer 2023

    Afropunk Brooklyn will be returning this year for another fun-filled weekend festival of fresh talent and amazing music. The annual cultural staple will be switching up venues this summer as it will be debuting at Greenpoint Terminal Market on Aug. 26 and 27.

    Afropunk was first introduced to the Brooklyn area in 2005 and has persisted as an annual arts celebration ever since. The event features diverse music, film, fashion, and art produced by alternative black artists and this year’s lineup will be highlighting two new headliners. R&B singer/songwriter Jazmine Sullivan will be making her Afropunk headliner debut, performing select music from her critically acclaimed 2021 EP Heaux Tales. Producer, Flying Lotus will also take the stage as headliner for the festival, bringing his live show to the city.

    Festival goers can also look forward to an even wider range of styles and incredible performances when it comes to the rest of the Afropunk lineup. Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$ will make an appearance during the weekend along with acclaimed jazz singer Madison McFerrin, NY rap vets the Beatnuts and multitalented performers such as Sudan Archives and the Brooklyn-born Iniko. These artists are simply skimming the surface of what diverse acts are to be expected throughout the weekend.

    AFROPUNK BROOKLYN

    As the organizers and founders claim, however, Afropunk is not just about the music. “It’s a community of people who reject societal norms and embrace their true selves, no matter what anyone else thinks. So leave the daily grind behind, let your true self shine, and party like there’s no tomorrow. This is a space where you can let your freak flag fly and be proud of who you are.”

    For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.

  • Remain in Light Tour Brings Talking Heads Classics to Capitol Theatre

    Original members of Talking Heads, Jerry Harrison & Adrian Belew, along with Cool Cool Cool played an incredible show at the Capitol Theatre on Sunday, June 25, filled with Talking Heads favorites on a tour highlighting Remain in Light. Cool Cool Cool performed a set of original music before accompanying Jerry & Adrian for a set of Talking Heads songs.

    Cool Cool Cool started the night off with some original songs which proved to be tight and groovy. Leading the way on vocals were Shira Elias & Sammi Garett, who provided a very upbeat and fun feel. They had great stage presence and crowd control. Notably this horns section is always incredibly tight and spectacular, it consists of Chris Brouwers, Greg Sanderson, & Josh Schwartz who also took lead vocals on a few songs.

    The band opened up with “Psycho Killer” which sent the place dancing. The set included fan favorites such as “Crosseyed & Painless,” “Cities,” “Once in a Lifetime,” and concluded with “Take Me To The River.” The show was high energy filled with masterful musicianship and highly psychedelic peaks in true Talking Heads Style.

    The audience applauded, begging for more. The band returned to play an incredible encore which included “Drugs” & “The Great Curve.” This was the last stop of an lengthy tour which spanned many “Cities” and was truly “Once in a Lifetime”.

    Setlist: Psycho Killer, Crosseyed & Painless, Houses in Motion, I Zimbra, Borna Under Punches, Cities, Rev It Up, Slippery People, Thela Hun Ginjeet, Once in a Lifetime, Life During Wartime, Take Me to the River

    Encore: Drugs, The Great Curve

  • Salt-N-Pepa Celebrate 50 Years of Hip Hop at NYS Fair

    Salt-N-Pepa will make their third appearance at the NYS Fair on Opening Day, Aug. 23, celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip hop.

    Salt-N-Pepa NYS Fair

    Cheryl James (also known as “Salt”) and Sandy Denton (also known as “Pepa”) first linked up in the mid-1980s when they were both Queensborough Community College students and Sears colleagues in Queens. Their coworker – and Salt’s boyfriend at the time – asked them to rap on a song he was producing. That song, “The Show Stopper,” became an underground hit and landed on the national R&B charts, leading to a record deal and the duo’s debut album, Hot, Cool & Vicious.

    Since then, Salt-N-Pepa has received several Grammy awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, as well as a Lifetime biopic. Some of their hits include “Push It,” “Shake Your Thang,” “Shoop” and “Whatta Man.” Through party anthems, big beats, and pro-feminist lyrics, the group broke down barriers for women in hip hop and were one of the first rap artists to experience success in the pop music realm and played a big role in solidifying the acceptance of rap and hip hop in the mainstream music world.

    Joining in the celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, Salt-N-Pepa will pay homage to their classic hip-hop roots, while entertaining the audience all night long. Don’t miss the group perform at Chevy Court at the NYS Fair on Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. For more information about the Fair, visit here.

    New York State Fair Lineup

    Chevy Court

    Aug. 23 at 1 p.m.- Chubby Checker

    Aug. 23 at 6 p.m.- Salt-N-Pepa

    Aug. 24 at 6 p.m.- Quiet Riot

    Aug. 26 at 1 p.m.- Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure 

    Aug. 26 at 6 p.m.- Julio Iglesias Jr. 

    Aug. 27 at 1 p.m.- The Prodigals

    Aug. 27 at 6 p.m.- Matt Stell

    Aug. 28 at 1 p.m.- Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone

    Aug. 28 at 6 p.m.- Anne Wilson

    Aug. 29 at 1 p.m.- Tommy James and the Shondells

    Aug. 29 at 6 p.m.- Bret Michaels

    Aug. 30 at 1 p.m.- Danielle Ponder

    Aug. 30 at 6 p.m.- Chapel Hart

    Sept. 1 at 6 p.m.- The Fray

    Sept. 2 at 12-9:45 p.m.- JAMS Funk Fest Featuring: Brick (6:45 p.m.) & Dazz Band (8:15 p.m.)

    Sun. Sept. 3 at 1 p.m.- Disney Junior Live On tour: Costume Palooza

    Sept. 4 at 12 p.m.- The High Kings

    Suburban Park

    Aug. 23 at 2 p.m.- Steven Page

    Aug. 23 at 8 p.m.- Lainey Wilson

    Aug. 24 at 8 p.m.- Theory of a Deadman

    Aug. 26 at 8 p.m.- George Thorogood and the Destroyers

    Aug. 27 at 2 p.m.- Boys World

    Aug. 28 at 8 p.m.- REO Speedwagon

    Aug. 29 at 8 p.m- Tyler Hubbard

    Aug. 30 at 8 p.m.- Ann Wilson

    Aug. 31 at 8 p.m.- Ludacris

    Sept. 1 at 8 p.m.- J.I.D.

    Sept. 2 at 8 p.m.-Quinn XCII

    Sept. 3 at 8 p.m.- Yung Gravy and bbno$

    Sept. 4 at 6 p.m.- Skid Row

  • City of the Sun Announces Summer Residency at (Le) Poisson Rouge

    (Le) Poisson Rouge will present a four-night residency with New York City-based powerhouse experimental music band City of the Sun, starting on June 28.

    city of the sun

    For over 10 years, City of the Sun has been flipping the perception of what instrumental music is, attracting a new generation to the genre. Formed in 2011 by guitarist John Pita and percussionist Zach Para, the band takes influence from genres like American folk, indie rock, blues, and flamenco, creating an otherworldly and cinematic experience.

    City of the Sun has been established as a powerhouse group in the post-rock sphere. Their UNTITLED EP in 2018 featured the critically acclaimed track “Perfect Instance,” leading them to release their self-titled album, also to huge praise. Their newest album Segunda Alma sees the group expanding on their experimental roots, mixing in organic house elements and other arrangements.

    Additional dates for the City of the Sun residency at (Le) Poisson Rouge) include July 11, August 9 and September 12. Tickets and information can be found here.