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  • ADK-Phoric Festival Coming to Lake George

    Adk-Phoric Festival, a brand new festival coming to Roaring Brook Ranch Resort in Lake George, has announced it will happen on Aug. 17, 2024, going from the early/late afternoon to 11 p.m.

    Adk-Phoric Festival: Live & Love Music is an unparalleled event that seamlessly blends live music, DJs, artisanal craftsmanship, and culinary diversity. With an elite lineup of both emerging and established artists across many genres, the festival also features a selection of the finest local DJs to accompany the artists to keep the atmosphere electrifying

    It goes beyond musical indulgence, featuring curated selections of food trucks offering an array of gourmet options, alongside a marketplace of bespoke craft vendors showcasing unique, hand-crafted goods. It is a multifaceted celebration of community and culture.

    The Roaring Brook Ranch Resort is a picturesque and serene resort located in Lake George. With its sprawling 35-acre estate, including 245 acres of undeveloped land in the majestic Adirondack Mountains, it has a rich legacy of cherished traditions that span generations, dating back to the memories forged in the 1960s. Festivalgoers will enjoy this scenic atmosphere along with the elite sounds of good music.

    Tickets for the Adk-Phoric Festival will be available for purchase by November 1.

  • Indie Rock Power Trio “ON” Unveil their latest video release ‘Gator’

    Toronto-NYC indie rock power trio ON has unveiled the music video for their latest single release ‘Gator’, an infectious groove and rock waltz, released via Toronto’s Indiestructable Records on October 10.

    The band ON is a power trio including lead vocalist Lucy Di Santo, drummer Dan Cornelius and guitarist Steve Fall, they continue to carry out the legacy of previously formed 90’s Sire Records band ACID TEST. The newest single ‘Gator’ encompasses infectious guitar riffs with a dash of groove that honors their post-punk, grunge, old-school funk and 90s college roots. The song is a clever blend of pop melody and raw rock, with a tight weave of classic and alternative coated with grunge. ‘Gator’ follows up the bands latest single ‘Make Me’, a song of frustration and wanted to recapture that euphoria in the new video.

    “The song has a strong guitar hook and melody – and the drums are
    tailored to support and enhance those elements. So I thought the drums should be a drum pattern that anyone could tap along to ON their steering wheel while waiting in traffic. Simple drum groove. Simple drum fills.”

    – Drummer Dan Cornelius

    Upcoming Tour Dates

    Sun 10/15 Toronto – Bovine Sex Club (with Snailmate, Second Wife)

    Tues 10 /17 Ithaca, NY – Deep Dive (with Snailmate)

    Wed 10/18 Buffalo, NY – The Lounge at Revolution Gallery (with Snailmate & Daisy Chain)

    Thurs 10/19 Kingston, ON – The Toucan (with Snailmate)

    Sat 10/21 NYC, NY – Bar Frida (with Snailmate)

    ‘Gator’ is out now and available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.

  • Virtuoso Bassist Thundercat Comes to Buffalo 

    Multi-Grammy award winner Thundercat came to Buffalo Riverworks on October 14, showcasing his talent as both a bassist and singer. After immediately selling out tickets to the Town Ballroom, promoters quickly upgraded the venue size. Hundreds of more fans got to pack in for a night of the In Yo Girls’s City Tour.

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Openers Coco and Breezy started off the night in Buffalo with their upbeat energy. These musical twins have grown up with a deep passion for dance music that stems back to their time as tour dancers for Prince. They’ve taken their many influences to build a sound that fuses house, R&B, and Afro-Latino roots. These skilled producers brought their fun-filled tunes to a crowd ready to groove. 

    Shortly after, Thundercat – also known as Stephen Bruner – took to the stage with a Mac Miller intro song. He quickly got to shredding on the bass and filling the venue with vibey tunes. His bandmates Dennis Hamm (keys) and Justin Brown (drums) took this collective playing experience to the next level. Awe-inspiring to watch, the three got lost in the music. They play off one another while intrinsically layering one cohesive piece into another. 

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Thundercat performed a wide array from his musical catalog, including songs off of his 2017 album Drunk including “Uh Uh” and “A Fan’s Mail (Iron Song Suite II).” Most of his performance encapsulated his latest album, It Is What It Is

    Closing out the night, Thundercat played his most recent release with Tame Impala, “No More Lies,” finishing off the night with everything harmonically sound and soulfully upbeat. A profound musician that without a doubt is inspiring other young musicians to delve into their passions head first. He even signed a young kids bass at the show.  

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    In case you missed a night of sweet tunes, don’t worry there is plenty more coming to Buffalo this fall season. Up next at Riverworks is San Holo coming October 21 and Dropkick Murphys performing October 24. Get your tickets here

    Setlist: Lost in Space / Great Scott / 22-26, Interstellar Love, How Sway, Uh Uh, Overseas, Dragonball Drug, Lava Lamp, A Message for Austin / Praise the Lord / Enter the Void, Oh Sheit It’s X, Black Qualls, A Fan’s Mail (Tron Song Suite II), Jameel’s Space Ride, King of the Hill, Tokyo, Lone Wolf and Cub, Funny Thing, Them Changes 

    Encore: No More Lies  

  • Lord Sko Unleashes Charismatic Energy for Washington Heights

    Lord Sko reigns from the section of New York City known as Washington Heights. Many people frequently visit Washington Heights a.k.a. Uptown – today we meet an artist that represents Washington Heights to the fullest. Last name Fursko – Lord Sko took his moniker in the same sense as Scott Mescudi a.k.a Kid Cudi. His beat selection matches between vocals and bars extraordinarily well and of course it sounds like New York.

    lord sko washington heights
    Lord Sko appears stoic

    Lead single “Finder’s Fee” off of Lord Sko’s latest release, United Palace, showcases one of the experimental artists of this era. His incredibly selective beat choices reflect the New York sound in an increasingly refreshing way. Specifically, the progression displayed from last summer’s Museum to the latest Fall release exhibits major strides. 

    Focus on Self and Follow Path

    As a student of his craft – Lord Sko continues to put forth his fair share of hours. Seemingly plucked from the skies to find his purpose at a rare age – this man consistently drops gems. Evidently, this artist sounds like one of the most impressive at this age since Joey Bada$$. The most wondrous thing about him points to the fact that he wishes to steer within his own lane. 

    The producer formerly known as Unlucky Bastards now goes by Keg and directed the exquisitely vibrant video for Lord Sko’s Finder’s Fee. Peace Lordy!

    His bodies of work portray the imagery experienced throughout his rise. With terrific stylistic switchups – Lord Sko belongs within the underground.

    Last summer, Lord Sko’s Museum album hit the airwaves to test out the canvas. With inquisitive mystique, this project pushed the genre forward. The imagery for that 2022 mixtape came to fruition via Lordnmf who became recognizable via hyper realistic works of art. Subsequently, it works out considering the album itself embodies street art and graffiti which Lord Sko considers to be the fifth pillar of hip-hop.

    Built Different

    The concept of a New York minute could never resonate until one fully experiences the pace. Moreover, New York City ages individuals at a fascinating rate. This young man tried psychedelics to find himself rapping for Pete Rosenberg all by the age of eighteen years old. Taking the train in third and fourth grade helped Sko find his way quickly. Lord Sko continues to curate projects that prove to be groundbreaking and ahead of their time.

    Lord Sko possesses the talent, versatility, knowledge and demeanor to succeed and experience hip-hop longevity. He made a wise choice for his career trajectory to add Dante Ross as his manager. With the correct circle and continuously refreshing sounds – this man refuses to be stagnant. 

    Modern Day Historian

    When Wiz Khalifa mentioned few artists make “stoner music” anymore – Lord Sko took it personally. Sko’s tunes encompass several life experiences, polished cadences and a distinct sound. Perhaps an ode to Mac Miller’s era – Lord Sko’s, “Kush & OJ” brings home incredible vibes with production from Graymatter

    The most distinguishable trait about this artist deals with self-discovery. He focuses on his path and infuses wizardry to connect the dots along the way. With modern golden era production and a vocal range of crafty lines, Lord Sko is one you ought to know.

    Another Strong Track off United Palace – if you liked this make sure you hear “FIRESTARTER”
  • Long Island Band The Illusion Inducted Into Long Island Music Hall Of Fame

    The Illusion, a Long Island based psychedelic rock band from the 1960s and 70s was recently inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHoF). At the induction ceremony, the group performed onstage for the first time in 51 years.

    The Illusion

    The Illusion made a name for themselves touring with the likes of The Who, The Allman Brothers Band, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and more. The group’s first single was released in 1968, with their debut album, The Illusion, released on Steed Records the following year. The band continued with two more albums and ultimately dissolved in the early 1970s. The group notably worked alongside Jeff Barry (Tina Turner, The Crystals), who served as the band’s producer for all three of their albums.

    The Illusion

    The group was inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame on October 7, celebrating original members John Vinci, Rich Cerniglia, Chuck Alder, Mike Ricciardella, and the late Mike Maniscalco. Cerniglia, Alder, and Ricciardella took the stage alongside friends to play a selection of hit songs from their original discography.

    The Illusion has had such a major impact and influence on so many of the performers who later themselves became inductees into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, it is high time they themselves became inductees. Congratulations to the Illusion on being inducted into the LIMEHoF.

    Barry Fisch, General Manager of LIMEHoF

    The Illusion is credited with being an influential figure in the Long Island rock scene, as well as a key influential figure for their friend and collaborator Jimi Hendrix. The group met Hendrix by chance at a recording studio early in their careers and went on to become close friends, frequently playing together across the country.

  • Hannah Diamond’s “Perfect Picture”: A Night of Empowerment at Elsewhere Brooklyn

    On October 14, a cool Brooklyn night, Elsewhere played host to an intimate and emotionally charged performance by the sensational Hannah Diamond, as she unveiled her latest album, Perfect Picture. The evening was a celebration of empowerment, self-confidence, and the universal struggles we all face in terms of self-perception, all wrapped in a visually and sonically captivating experience.

    Images by Adrian Hernandez

    The tracklist of Perfect Picture takes us on a touching journey, each song delving into the complex web of emotions that revolve around self-identity and the pursuit of perfection. The album kicks off with the enchanting title track Perfect Picture, which immediately sets the tone for the night. As Hannah’s ethereal vocals blend with mesmerizing visuals, it’s clear that she is on a mission to explore the intricacies of human self-perception.

    The theme of empowerment is prevalent throughout the album, and songs like “Affirmations” and “Unbreakable” stand out as anthems of self-confidence and resilience. These tracks evoke feelings of strength, freedom, and the realization that true beauty lies in embracing our flaws and imperfections. Hannah Diamond’s lyrics are a beacon of hope, reminding us that our self-worth should not be contingent on societal standards but on our ability to love ourselves.

    The show was an intimate affair, which perfectly suited the album’s personal and vulnerable themes. The crowd’s energy was electric, with fans singing along and dancing in unison to the infectious beats. It was evident that Hannah had a genuine connection with her audience, making the performance feel more like an interactive conversation between friends rather than a traditional concert.

    Hannah Diamond’s stage presence was nothing short of mesmerizing. She effortlessly navigated between her hit singles and the deep cuts from “No FX,” and it was clear that she was emotionally invested in every note she sang. Her humility and vulnerability on stage resonated deeply with the audience, as she encouraged everyone to embrace themselves.

    Perfect Picture is an album that delves into the essence of human existence, examining the power of self-love and the beauty of imperfection. Hannah Diamond’s performance at Elsewhere Brooklyn was a testament to the depth of her artistry and her ability to connect with her fans on a profound level. In an industry that often perpetuates unrealistic ideals of beauty and perfection, Hannah’s music serves as a beacon of authenticity and self-empowerment, reminding us all that we are, indeed, perfect just the way we are.

  • The Museum of the City of New York Unveils Centennial Exhibition “This Is New York”

    The Museum of the City of New York opened a new exhibition, titled People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100. The exhibition celebrates 100 years of the Upper East Side museum, showing a selection of MCNY’s collection of over 750,000 objects. 

    The new exhibition opened on October 13, presented as part of the Museum’s Centennial celebrations. The selection includes rarely seen items such as a dress worn by opera star Marian Anderson, a golden Tiffany & Company tea and coffee set, a mouthguard used by boxer Joe Louis, and a 1985 street art painting by Sandra “Lady Pink” Fabara. Each object was selected from the museum’s collection of over 750,000 pieces, and reveals a unique perspective of the history of New York City.

    People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100
    Credit: Brad Farwell

    A proud highlight of the exhibition, titled Produced by New York, shows a diverse collection crafted and sourced from New York City. Relics from pre-1973 Yankee Stadium, original runs of Broadway productions, Vera Maxwell masterpieces, and more show the rich and expansive culture of New York through the years.

    For the last 100 years, MCNY has wrestled with the ambitious notion that a single institution can capture the history, physical transformation, and diversity of this complex metropolis. People, Place, and Influence is a testament to the enduring themes that have defined our museum over the last 100 years. We are not just showcasing objects; we’re weaving together the incredible narratives of a city that has shaped style, politics, and business on a global scale.

    Lilly Tuttle, Curator, Museum of the City of New York

    In addition to the selection of historical items, the exhibition also includes a look at the history and founding of the Museum of the City of New York. The museum stands as the first city museum in the United States, and is the only museum dedicated to telling the story of New York. People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100 is on display until April 21, 2024.

    People, Place, and Influence: The Collection at 100
    Credit: Brad Farwell

    The Museum continues another centennial exhibition, This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture. It features an interactive exhibit showcasing artists, writers, and creatives who were both inspired by and influenced the culture and development of New York City. This exhibit is on view through June 21, 2024.

    The Museum is also hosting a monthly film and speaker series in celebration of the centennial, titled New York on Film: Decade by Decade. The events feature studio, independent, and documentary films that tell the story of New York City at the time they were made. A full schedule and lineup are available here.

  • Enso Taves Releases Bachata Fusion Single “Tengo Sueños”

    Enso Taves, the New York-based Dominican singer-songwriter, has long been recognized for his unique fusion of Bachata with Latin American Bolero, Son, and Jazz. This remarkable combination of styles has earned him a dedicated fan base eager to embrace his upcoming release, “Tengo Sueños.”

    Released on October 13, this single is not only a symbol of Enso’s artistry but also a testament to his ability to create contemporary music with the heart of traditional Bachata.

    Enso Taves is more than just a singer-songwriter; he is a storyteller who weaves the rich cultural tapestry of his Dominican heritage into every note and lyric. His music can be described as elegant simplicity with a touch of sophisticated romance, a characteristic often associated with Bolero and Bachata. Yet, what sets Enso apart is his ability to infuse these traditional sounds with a modern twist, creating a unique listening experience.

    “Tengo Sueños” begins with a warm and inviting melody, an unmistakable hallmark of Bachata. The song carries the heart of traditional Bachata with its gentle yet emotionally charged guitar strums, which form the backbone of the genre. The traditional bongo and maracas add a layer of authenticity to the rhythm, making you feel as though you’re dancing in a Dominican plaza.

    But what sets “Tengo Sueños” apart is its fusion of these traditional elements with modernity. Enso Taves’ voice is velvety smooth, guiding you through the song’s narrative with a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. As the song progresses, a contemporary touch emerges with the incorporation of electric guitars and a richer percussive backdrop, hinting at the influence of pop and rock.

    The lyrics of “Tengo Sueños” beautifully encapsulate the power of love to conquer adversity. As Enso sings:

    “Tengo sueños tienes que dos también un verso que te quite el miedo de dorar fracto preñar tus sueños que esta historia empieza no… vamos a ver para fugar no donde quiera de no puedo corazón…”

    Here’s the translation:

    “I have dreams, you have two, a verse that takes away your fear, gilds the cracks, nurtures your dreams, this story begins now… let’s see where it goes, I can’t go anywhere, my heart…”

    These words balance vulnerability and strength, emphasizing the importance of understanding each other’s dreams and fears in a relationship.

    For Enso Taves, “Tengo Sueños” is not just a song; it’s a testament to his artistry and his commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of his Dominican roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. Enso Taves will be taking this enchanting musical journey on the road with his upcoming “Bachata Bohemia 2023” tour, bringing this fusion of tradition and innovation to audiences around the world. The single promises to be a musical experience that transcends the barriers of time and tradition, carrying us into a world of love and dreams where the power of music knows no bounds.

  • UAlbany PAC to Host Silent Film Screening with The Area Wind Ensemble

    The UAlbany Performing Arts Center (PAC) will host a free film screening of The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari composed by Brett L. Wery and performed by The Area Wind Ensemble on Sunday, November 12.

    This event is one of three this season that celebrates local artists as part of the UAlbany Performing Arts Center’s prime performance series. Composer Brett L. Wery is the Music Director/Conductor of the Capital Region Wind Ensemble in Schenectady and composer/editor for Sonata Grendel Publishing in Scotia. Wery’s compositions have been performed and recorded around the world while also named winner of the Classic Pure Vienna International Music Competition.

    The Area Wind Ensemble also by the name Quintocracy based in the Capitol Region featuring Melanie Chirignan on flute, Susan Loegering Daves on bassoon, Kelly Lockwood on oboe and Kathryn Svatek on horn. They will be joined for this performance by guest artist Allegra Smith on clarinet.

    Over the years, the ensemble has created a goal to break the dusty, classical ensemble mold in support of their belief that music is for all and the music around us should be as diverse as the culture in which we live. Supporting the opportunity to perform for the upcoming silent horror film and help enhance the mystique of the cinema experience.

    Admission to this event is free. No reservations or tickets are required.  For further information, visit here.

  • Cooking with Fire: Kitchen Dwellers Bring the Heat in Cohoes

    Full of gritty energy, thoughtful storytelling, extremely tight improvisation, a spectacular light show, and a palpable connection to their audience, Kitchen Dwellers brought their unique brand of psychedelic bluegrass to Cohoes, NY on Thursday, October 12th.

    No strangers to the Capital Region, Kitchen Dwellers have played the area many times over the years, but the second show of their 2023 fall tour would be their first at the historic Cohoes Music Hall, one of the oldest (and allegedly haunted) venues in the country. Delivering an absolute scorching performance, the level of musicianship on display was scary good.

    Kitchen Dwellers made their Cohoes Music Hall debut on 10/12/2023.

    Showing up to the corner of Remsen and Cayuga, you were instantly met with heady vibes from the municipal lot as the jokers and tokers greeted one another.  There was a laid back feeling of familiarity and optimism as people of all ages lined up to check out the plethora of band merch and the gorgeous limited edition show poster designed by artist Dan Dippel. Fans who got there early enough were treated to a delicious appetizer from the young-and-hungry opening act, Fireside Collective from Asheville, NC. 

    After a brief set change, Capital Region show promoter Greg Bell of Guthrie Bell Productions took center stage to welcome everyone to the Cohoes Music Hall and wax nostalgic for a moment before introducing Kitchen Dwellers to a massive ovation. Wasting no time serving up the main course, the band set the tone early with a “Sundown” opener, the first of five songs that would be played from their latest album, Wise River. They had the crowd captivated from the very first note.

    Kitchen Dwellers (L-R): Max Davies, Torrin Daniels, Joe Funk, and Shawn Swain performing on 10/12/23.

    Consisting of Torrin Daniels on banjo, Joe Funk on bass, Max Davies on guitar, and Shawn Swain on mandolin, describing their inspired sound is no easy task. Utilizing traditional string instruments, adding a few effect pedals and foregoing a drummer, their expansive playing is full of character, bombastic banjo riffs, lightning fast licks, virtuosic finger picking and foot-stomping grooves. These guys make the complex look effortless.  After squeezing “Their Names Are The Trees” into a “This Time” sandwich, the Kitchen Dwellers were cooking with pure gasoline as they alligatored “Smokestack” through a pair of choice covers – “Salt Creek” and “Alcohol in the Bloodstream.” Coming up for air to greet the audience and exchange some friendly banter about the proper pronunciation of Cohoes, the band would then invite Fireside Collective dobro player, Tommy Maher, to the stage for the remainder of the set. 

    Chest Fever: Fireside Collective’s Tommy Maher (dobro) joined in on the fun on 10/12/23.

    Taking control of the ship and guiding the band through the crowd-pleasing title track of 2019’s Muir Maid, upright bassist Joe Funk’s vocals sounded fantastic here, while the extended interplay and energy of Torrin’s flying dreadlocks and Maher’s youthful exuberance sent the room into a fever pitch. With the venue itself located just on the outskirts of Levon Country, perhaps that was their intention all along, as a well-placed cover of The Band’s classic “Chest Fever” would bring the opening frame to a close.

    Kitchen Dwellers’ Joe Funk croons away in Cohoes, NY 10/12/23.

    When Kitchen Dwellers hit the stage for round 2, it didn’t take them long to address the elephant in the room, or in this case, the ghost. Nicknamed “The girl who made vaudeville famous,” many believe the spirit of Eva Tanguay has haunted the Cohoes Music Hall since her death in 1947.  Often “felt” hanging around just off stage left and sometimes in the center of the balcony’s second row, the band acknowledged this bit of folklore by offering up their song “Ghost in a Bottle” in tribute.

    Ghost in a Bottle: Kitchen Dwellers make an offering to the ghost of Eva Tanguay on 10/12/23.

    The real meat and potatoes of the set would come next as the Dwellers found their groove on “Stand at Ease” which seamlessly segued into a cover of “White Freightliner Blues.” Showing a deep respect to their roots by weaving together a tapestry of their influences, the dexterity and speed at which these guys play make it almost impossible to stand still. After a stellar version of “Gypsy,” the band gave a special shoutout to a group of friends who traveled there from Vermont, allegedly breaking the record for the most people you can cram into a van, something which Torrin found debatable. Announcing they weren’t going to do the typical encore thing and that they’d just play until the venue kicked them out, the enthusiastic crowd were then treated to a sizzling combination of “Mountain” > “Drowning (… Again)” > “Ebenezer’s Winter” to bring the tasty night of galaxy-grass jams to a close just after midnight. 

    Putting a fresh spin on an old genre and blending the past with the future,  Kitchen Dwellers rose to the occasion in Cohoes and threw down a performance that will be talked about for years to come. Upon leaving the Cohoes Music Hall, perhaps one excited fan summed it up best, saying “That was the best $20 I’ve spent in a very long time.“

    With fall tour just getting underway, fans in New York won’t need to wait long to catch them again. Kitchen Dwellers have been tapped by Twiddle to take part in their final shows next month before going on an indefinite hiatus. The sentimental sendoff will take place at the historic Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. For more details on tour dates and tickets head to kitchendwellers.com.

    Kitchen Dwellers | October 12, 2023 | Cohoes Music Hall | Cohoes, NY

    Set 1: Sundown, This Time > Their Names Are the Trees > This Time, Smokestack>Salt Creek >Alcohol In the Bloodstream, Muir Maid * > Chest Fever *

    Set 2: Ghost in the Bottle > Cuckoo’s Nest [Traditional] > Ghost In the Bottle, Stand At Ease > White Freightliner Blues, Gypsy, Mountain > Drowning (… Again) > Ebenezer’s Winter

    * Featuring Tommy Maher of Fireside Collective on Dobro