The Joe Marcinek Band will take the state at Iridium Jazz Club in NYC on Aug. 26. The evening will also feature multiple guest musicians who look to compliment the vibrant and engaging sounds of the band.
Uniquely, the Joe Marcinek band is a carousel of different musicians and set lists. Each performance is made to be its own individual experience. The music varies from the psychedelic tones of the Grateful Dead to the brassy sound of Chicago Blues.
Baltimore’s renowned Dennis Chambers will be on drums during the evening. A longtime fixture in the East Coast jazz scene, Chambers began performing at just six years old. Despite lacking formal training, he has gone on to share the stage with the likes of John Scofield, Santan, Mike Stern, and Parliament/Funkadelic. As a teenager the drummer was recruited to be a part of the storied Sugar Hill Label. Chambers will be joined by legendary harmonica figure Howard Levy. Backing them all up is percussionist Jason Hann, who cut his teeth with The String Cheese Incident.
Lending his keys to the night is jazz pianist Jesus Molina. The Columbian-born artist has made a name for himself in the world of jazz. Originally a saxophonist, Molina transitioned from saxophone to piano as a teen. Cincinnati vocalist Reilly Comisar and bassist Ola Timothy will also be performing during the evening.
Click here for more information on the event and ticket details.
Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of metalheads as Pantera, accompanied by Lamb of God and Child Bite, electrified the St. Joseph Health Amphitheater. The weather may have been gloomy, but the atmosphere inside the amphitheater was ablaze with energy, thanks to the raw power of the bands and a few unexpected surprises.
Lamb of God.
Lamb of God’s electrifying set energized the crowd and set the stage for an unforgettable night. With a blistering start, the band launched into “Momento Mori,” a track that immediately established their intent to dominate the stage. Each note resonated with precision, a testament to Lamb of God’s seasoned prowess.
The intensity never wavered as the band seamlessly transitioned from one hit to another. “Ruin” ignited a frenzy in the audience, while the ever-popular “Walk With Me In Hell” united voices in a melodic roar. The setlist was meticulously crafted to showcase Lamb of God’s versatility, as evidenced by the seamless shift to “Now You’ve Got Something To Die For,” which delivered a fierce social commentary amidst the sonic onslaught.
“Omens” brought a modern edge to the performance, highlighting the band’s evolution without compromising on their core aggression. Lamb of God’s stage presence was captivating, with vocalist Randy Blythe’s raw energy feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm.
Lamb of God.
As the rain persisted, Lamb of God’s set reached its zenith with “Redneck.” The pit erupted into a tumultuous sea of movement, and the crowd’s interaction with the band reached its peak. The shared experience of relentless headbanging and cathartic release transformed the weather’s adversity into a unifying force.
Pantera, known for their ferocious live performances, took the stage by storm, proving once again why they are hailed as legends in the metal world. Despite the absence of original drummer Vinnie Paul and guitarist Dimebag Darrell, the lineup alterations did not detract from the band’s intensity. With Phil Anselmo’s commanding presence and the bass prowess of Rex Brown, the crowd was treated to a spectacular display of Pantera’s iconic sound.
The inclusion of guest guitarist Zakk Wylde, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, and drummer Charlie Benante from Anthrax injected a fresh dynamic into the performance. Their chemistry with the band members was evident as they seamlessly integrated into Pantera’s lineup.
The setlist, spanning Pantera’s illustrious career, left no fan disappointed. Kicking off with a thunderous rendition of “A New Level,” the crowd was instantly captivated. The hits kept coming, with “I’m Broken” and “Walk” inciting frenzied mosh pits and headbanging that defied the rain. Phil Anselmo’s voice, as potent as ever, delivered the raw emotion that has defined Pantera’s music for decades.
Pantera.
The evening’s climax arrived with the finale. “Cowboys From Hell” resonated through the amphitheater, reminding everyone why this song is a metal anthem. The roaring crowd demanded more, leading to an unforgettable encore of “Yesterday Don’t Mean Shit.” The sheer energy of the band and the audience’s fervor forged a connection that transcended the weather’s challenges.
Pantera’s performance was a reminder of their enduring legacy, an echo of a bygone era of metal that still resonates powerfully with fans today. The band’s ability to unite the audience, even in the face of rain, showcased their unwavering impact on the metal community.
Lamb of God Setlist: Momento Mori, Walk With Me in Hell, Resurrection Man, Ditch, Now You’ve Got Something to Die For, Omens, Ruin, Contractor, Laid to Rest, Redneck
Pantera Setlist: A New Level, Mouth for War, Strength Beyond Strength, Becoming, I’m Broken, Suicide Note Pt. II, 5 Minutes Alone, This Love, Fucking Hostile, Cemetary Gates, Planet Caravan(Black Sabbath cover), Walk, Domination/Hallow, Cowboys From Hell, Yesterday Don’t Mean Shit
In what’s become a bit of a Saratoga summer tradition, it was another ‘boot scootin’ boogie’ of a good time when the Zac Brown Band brought their “From The Fire” tour to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) on Aug.13.
Playing two sets of crowd-pleasing favorites, the memorable performance also included guest sit-ins galore and a plethora of unexpected cover songs from artists like Pink Floyd, Radiohead, and The Band. Proving they are anything but your “typical” country rock superstars, the genre-defying crossover juggernaut led by Brown had something for everyone and cemented why they are considered one of today’s top live acts and party atmosphere you can count on.
The Zac Brown Band performing at SPAC on 8/13/2023. Photo by Zak Radick.
After getting the night started with stellar sets from a pair of kings, the up-and coming Nashville act King Calaway and Southern blues powerhouse rocker Marcus King, the highly prolific, Grammy Award winning Zac Brown Band took the Broadview Stage at SPAC shortly after 8 pm. Opening up the curtains to the show in dramatic fashion, “Make This Day” had the crowd on their feet and singing along to the very first note. Accompanied by a backing entourage of talented musicians Brown referred to as “the best in the business,” the collective sound of everyone playing together was massive inside the packed pavilion, overpowering the singing of the audience, both inside and on the lawn, who just seemed to be savoring every second of the show.
The Zac Brown Band performing at SPAC on 8/13/2023. Photo by Zak Radick.
Playing some of their most well-known material in the first set that included “Knee Deep,” “Keep Me In Mind,” “Where the Boat Leaves From” and a laidback version of “Free” that segued nicely into Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic,” ZBB would also show massive respect to the handpicked opening act King Calaway by covering one of their songs, “When I Get Home.” Following that up with another cover song about home, the Atlanta, GA-based group then unleashed a high-octane, foot stomping fiddle clinic with their take of the Charlie Daniels Band classic, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”
After working their way through “Tomorrow Never Comes” and “Same Boat,” one of the emotional high points of the night came next with a lovely tribute to Robbie Robertson of The Band who passed away just a few days earlier. Known for regularly working various songs from The Band’s storied catalog into their live shows, on this Sunday night in August, ZBB opted to go with a cover of “The Weight.” The clear influence of the Saugerties icons was on full display here and was palpable. Following an extended drum and percussion solo next, “Jump Right In” would have fans jumping for joy before heading to the concession stand for a short break in the music.
The Zac Brown Band performing at SPAC on 8/13/2023. Photo by Zak Radick.
Kicking off the second set with the opening track of 2015’s Jekyll + Hyde, the pop energy of “Beautiful Drug” instantly got the crowd moving again, before Southern blues guitarist and all-around ‘goodfella’ Marcus King would join in on the party by lending his incredible talents to a cover of Derek and the Dominos’ classic anthem “Layla.” The sweet sounds of “Sweet Annie,” was next, followed by “Whiskey’s Gone,” and “As She’s Walking Away,” before another standout of the night came in a version of “Colder Weather” that dipped its toes into Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” territory before going into the popular ZBB original tune “Toes.”
Keeping the “cover-heavy” theme of the night going strong, I don’t think anyone expected the pair of selections that came next. First reassuring anyone who might be experiencing their first Zac Brown Band show that they do, in fact, belong there was “Creep” from Radiohead’s legendary debut album Pablo Honey, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The next surprise was that of U2’s stadium-sized sing-along “With Or Without You” that saw the whole crowd doing their best Bono impressions. Following it up with a smash hit sing-along of their own, the Zac Brown Band original song “Homegrown” all but brought the packed SPAC house down, leaving fans hollering for more as the second set came to a close.
The Zac Brown Band performing at SPAC on 8/13/2023. Photo by Zak Radick.
Returning to the Broadview Stage with big smiles and time for a few more, Zac Brown Band went ‘around the horn’ so to speak, playing an impressive country-styled mashup of songs that gave each member of the band ample time to bask in the spotlight. Weaving in and out of songs like a well-oiled machine, the medley alligatored together through “Mountain Music”>”Chattahoochee”>”All My Ex’s Live In Texas”>”Fishing In The Dark”>”Callin’ Baton Rouge”>”Family Tradition”>”Boot Scootin’ Boogie”>”I Will Always Love You”>”Here’s a Quarter” and finally concluded with the crowd pleasing “Friends In Low Places.” Met with an absolutely rousing ovation, it was clear that fans not only wanted one more song from ZBB, they needed it. Happy to oblige and send everyone home happy, Zac Brown Band would conclude another year’s stop in Saratoga Springs with the song that started it all for them, “Chicken Fried.”
The Zac Brown Band performing at SPAC on 8/13/2023. Photo by Zak Radick.
After a few days of rest, the “From the Fire” tour picks back up on Aug. 19 with a highly anticipated performance at Boston’s Fenway Park, followed by a pair of already sold out shows in Gilford, NH. Fans in the New York/New Jersey area won’t need to wait long to get their next fix of ZBB though. They will play in Atlantic City on Sept. 1, followed by a pair of dates at the Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh.
Zac Brown Band
Set 1: Make This Day, Knee Deep, Keep Me In Mind, Where the Boat Leaves From, When I Get Home [1], The Devil Went Down to Georgia [2], Free > Into the Mystic [3], Tomorrow Never Comes, Same Boat, The Weight [4], Drums, Jump Right In.
Set 2: Beautiful Drug, Layla [5], Sweet Annie, Whiskey’s Gone, As She’s Walking Away, Colder Weather>Wish You Were Here [6], Toes, Creep [7], With Or Without You [8], Homegrown.
Encore: Mountain Music>Chattahoochee>All My Ex’s Live In Texas>Fishing In The Dark>Callin’ Baton Rouge>Family Tradition>Boot Scootin’ Boogie>I Will Always Love You>Here’s a Quarter>Friends In Low Places [9], Chicken Fried.
The Indigo Girls will perform at the “Raising the Bar Benefit Concert” at Capitol Theatre on Nov. 3. The Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) hosts the event each October as it commemorates Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Amy Ray and Emily Saliers
Consisting of Emily Sailers and Amy Ray, the Indigo Girls are one of the most iconic acts in folk music. The pair has released 16 studio albums and sold over 15 million records. In 1990 the duo earned a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album with their self-titled project Indigo Girls. The opening track on the album, “Closer to Fine” has gone on to solidify itself as one of the most popular songs in folk music.
Along with their successful music career, the Indigo Girls are widely recognized for their social and political activism. Champions of LGBTQ+ rights and protecting the environment, the group has incorporated their advocacy into both their music and shows.
We are thrilled and honored to have the Indigo Girls perform for our benefit concert to raise awareness about domestic violence.
Cindy Kanusher, Executive Director for PWJC.
The Pace Women’s Justice Center is a non-profit legal center located at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law. The organization provides free legal services to over 3,500 victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse. PWJC also hosts and participates in hundreds of training and outreach events.
Capitol Theatre
Each October, the nonprofit honors an individual who has dedicated themselves to supporting the PWJC mission and its clients with the Making a Difference Award. This year PWJC selected Daniel Seymour, President of Cannae Advisors LLC.
The Raising the Bar Benefit Concert is a nod to PWJC’s mission to increase access to justice and to provide free legal services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The funds raised will allow PWJC to continue helping their clients on their journeys toward empowerment and healing.Click here for information on individual tickets and sponsorships.
Federico Aubele has officially announced his seventh studio album Time Drips On My Bed which is set to be released to audiences on Oct. 13. Alongside the exciting announcement, the Brooklyn-based Argentine singer/songwriter has decided to give fans a sneak peek of the project by simultaneously dropping the first track on the album, “What We Lost” with an official music video.
To say Aubele is an experienced artist and individual would be an understatement as the singer, born and raised in Buenos Aires, has immersed himself in cultural hubs all over the world by residing in Berlin, Barcelona, and now Brooklyn. With each move and experience, the artist has taken musical and life lessons with him which have been instilled in his almost two-decade long career, fusing the sounds of each city and various genres including electronica, acoustic guitar, flamenco, and so much more.
Aubele’s upcoming album, coming out a little over a year after his sixth The Holographic Moon, will see the singer diving deeper into his past. After suffering the loss of his father in 2021, Aubele found himself reflecting on his home city of Buenos Aires and how it shaped who he is today. By tapping into his first album, Gran Hotel Buenos Aires, utilizing 2000s drum beats, melodica, Moog synth, and his unique baritone vocals, the album grew legs and began to run. It was this careful submersion into his grief and early life that ultimately served as the catalyst for his newfound creativity, allowing him to accept his past and build the foundation of his latest project.
“We’re constantly evolving and changing, which means analyzing, understanding and accepting aspects of our past,” Aubele shares. “If we don’t do that, what we need to process starts spilling into our present, preventing us from fully reaping its benefits and appreciating where we are.”
Perfectly expressing this theme, the first track on the album, “What We Lost” is available everywhere now along with an official music video directed by Federico Aubele himself. The song itself, backed by a looping drum beat, explores the love gained and lost in relationships of all kinds, and how when they live on in memories, they can enable one’s growth or hinder it. Although Aubele’s shaky and breathy vocals may be an acquired/specific taste for listeners, his message stays strong. The artist explains that the song is meant to express the shared phenomena of how humans are “inclined to recreate, consciously or subconsciously, those moments that moved, transformed and defined us.”
The video is dreamy in its own right as it is shot throughout Brooklyn and includes countless images meant to enhance the meaning of the song including the trees of Prospect Park and visuals that resemble a flashback reel.
The Brooklyn-based group salamander has made galant strides forward in their musical journey as they have recently released a new single, “xylem,” on top of announcing their debut LP. The LP titled, [container], is an eleven track project set to be released later this Fall on Oct. 18.
salamander is dynamic trio, originally formed by songwriters PJ Hunter and Leo Frampton in 2019, adding in drummer Ben Verde two years later. The band takes improvisation and raw emotion to form an interesting-sonic sound that struggles to be placed in the confines of any genre. In a similar style, their songwriting process is fluid and highly collaborative, with many arrangements, structured ideas, and lyrics coming from multiple members of the band. While some songs, such as “wildfire” and “xylem,” have lyrics and chords written mostly by one of the band members, other songs such as “ride” and “wave” were written in full collaboration.
“xylem” is the second track the band has released from [container] following their previously dropped track “ride.” The new song has a hypnotic and distilled pop beat and melody that blends into the moody vocals of the group. The lyrics themselves, coming mostly from band member Frampton, express haunting ideas surrounding the inevitability of death and trying to grapple and make peace with them saying, “I love this place, I want to be somewhere else/I love this place/We are going somewhere else.”
“This song sprouted from the way I have made peace with this fear, trying to see my own life and generation as part of a cycle bigger and smaller than myself,” Frampton explains. “I wrote the lyrics during springtime, which is the essence of the chords as well. I like the idea that people can interpret ‘place’ differently, zoomed in or out as far as they like.”
The writing process of “xylem” was completely unique with melodies being created by Frampton and Hunter, guitar tones and a resonating mood being brought by Cody Zusman, and production being put together by Carlos Hernandez, among various other hands and voices in the mix. The new song comes with an artistic video visualizer created by Linnea Nugent.
The single is now available on Spotify, YouTube, and all DSP’s.
[container] Track List
01. boomerang 02. xylem 03. unnamed thing 23 04. wildfire 05. unnamed thing 23.1 06. the label 07. instrumental believers 08. ride 09. images 10. wave 11. the 100th meridian
Reigning two time CMA Entertainer of the Year Luke Combs will perform 25 U.S. stadium shows next year with his “Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old Tour,” including two shows in Buffalo. Special guests for the Friday night shows include Cody Jinks, The Avett Brothers, Charles Wesley Godwin, Hailey Whitters and The Wilder Blue, while the Saturday shows will feature Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny, Drew Parker and Colby Acuff.
The 2024 dates follow Combs’ massive World Tour, which runs through this fall including upcoming sold-out shows in Australia and Europe. With 44 shows across 3 continents and 16 countries, the tour is the largest ever for a country artist and has broken records across the globe.
We got an opportunity to do two shows in some U.S. markets on the World Tour, but when I found out we were going to be able to do two shows for most all of the cities on the 2024 tour, I decided I wanted each show to have their own unique set up of openers, as well as my own unique setlist. I thought this would give people an opportunity to come to both nights if they want, but see two completely different shows. With Country music being such a wide genre and being a huge fan of it all myself, I wanted to open up my stage to acts that lean into Outlaw, Americana and Red Dirt on Friday nights, as well as having a night with people I have toured with in the past, who are more contemporary country. I’m super excited to have both groups be out on the road with me for the Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old Tour!
Luke Combs
The performances add to yet another triumphant year for Combs, whose new version of Tracy Chapman’s Grammy-winning song, “Fast Car,” has spent five consecutive weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. This is Combs’ 16th consecutive #1 single at country radio, yet another historic feat. The song was also recently certified 2x Platinum, has garnered over 435 million global streams, and is currently #1 on the Hot AC chart and #2 on Billboard’s all-genre Hot 100 chart. With these achievements, “Fast Car” is the first song by a male solo artist to ever top both the Hot AC and Country Airplay charts.
Additionally, Combs recently earned 22 new RIAA certifications including for his albums This One’s For You (6x Platinum), What You See Is What You Get (4x Platinum), Growin’ Up (Platinum), Gettin’ Old (Gold), and other hits.
Luke Combs is currently celebrating the release of his new album, Gettin’ Old—a companion to his acclaimed 2022 record, Growin’ Up. Receiving critical acclaim, The New York Times said that it is, “…grounded in country, complete with fiddle fills, but it’s also pointed toward a wide pop audience” while Billboard proclaims, “his electrifying-yet-earthy voice soundtracking this time in his life as a husband, father and entertainer at the top of his game.” Produced by Combs, Chip Matthews and Jonathan Singleton, Gettin’ Old is Combs’ fourth full-length album following Growin’ Up, 2019’s What You See is What You Get and This One’s For You.
A Grand Ole Opry-member and 8x CMA, 3x ACM, 3x Billboard Music Award-winner, Combs has also partnered with Opry Entertainment Group to open a massive multi-level entertainment complex in downtown Nashville, expected to open summer 2024.
Tickets for Luke Combs’ “Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old Tour” will be available for pre-sale starting Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 4:00 pm local time with general on-sale following Friday, Aug. 25 at 10:00 am local time. Combs’ official fan club, The Bootleggers, will once again have early access to tickets through fan pre-sale starting Wednesday, August 23 at 10:00 am local time. Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets starting Thursday, Aug. 24 from 10:00 am through 10:0 0pm local time via Citi Entertainment. Complete details can be found at www.citientertainment.com.
Luke Combs Tour
August 16—Sydney, Australia—Qudos Bank Arena* (SOLD OUT)
August 17—Sydney, Australia—Qudos Bank Arena* (SOLD OUT)
August 19—Melbourne, Australia—Rod Laver Arena* (SOLD OUT)
August 20—Melbourne, Australia—Rod Laver Arena* (SOLD OUT)
August 23—Adelaide, Australia—Adelaide Entertainment Centre* (SOLD OUT)
August 26—Perth, Australia—RAC Arena* (SOLD OUT)
September 30—Oslo, Norway—Spektrum Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 1—Stockholm, Sweden—Avicii Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 4—Copenhagen, Denmark—Royal Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 6—Hamburg, Germany—Barclays Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 7—Amsterdam, Netherlands—AFAS Live (SOLD OUT)
October 8—Paris, France—La Cigale (SOLD OUT)
October 10—Zurich, Switzerland—The Hall (SOLD OUT)
October 11—Brussels, Belgium—Ancienne Belgique (SOLD OUT)
October 13—Dublin, Ireland—3Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 14—Belfast, N. Ireland—SSE Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 16—Glasgow, Scotland—OVO Hydro Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 17—Manchester, England—AO Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 19—London, England—The O2 Arena (SOLD OUT)
October 20—London, England—The O2 Arena (SOLD OUT)
April 12, 2024—Milwaukee, WI—American Family Field†
April 13, 2024—Milwaukee, WI—American Family Field‡
April 19, 2024—Buffalo, NY—Highmark Stadium+
April 20, 2024—Buffalo, NY—Highmark Stadium‡
April 27, 2024—University Park, PA—Beaver Stadium‡
May 3, 2024—Jacksonville, FL—EverBank Stadium§
May 4, 2024—Jacksonville, FL—EverBank Stadium~
May 10, 2024—San Antonio, TX—Alamodome§
May 11, 2024—San Antonio, TX—Alamodome‡
May 17, 2024—Santa Clara, CA—Levi’s® Stadium§
May 18, 2024—Santa Clara, CA—Levi’s® Stadium~
May 31, 2024—Phoenix, AZ—State Farm Stadium§
June 1, 2024—Phoenix, AZ—State Farm Stadium~
June 7, 2024—Salt Lake City, UT—Rice-Eccles Stadium§
June 8, 2024—Salt Lake City, UT—Rice-Eccles Stadium‡
June 14, 2024—Los Angeles, CA—SoFi Stadium+
June 15, 2024—Los Angeles, CA—SoFi Stadium~
July 14—Craven, Canada—Country Thunder Saskatchewan
July 19, 2024—East Rutherford, NJ—MetLife Stadium§
July 20, 2024—East Rutherford, NJ—MetLife Stadium‡
July 26, 2024—the Washington D.C. area (Landover, MD)—FedExField+
July 27, 2024—the Washington D.C. area (Landover, MD)—FedExField‡
August 2, 2024—Cincinnati, OH—Paycor Stadium§
August 3, 2024—Cincinnati, OH—Paycor Stadium‡
August 9, 2024—Houston, TX—NRG Stadium§
August 10, 2024—Houston, TX—NRG Stadium‡
*with special guests Cody Johnson and Lane Pittman, †with special guests Cody Jinks, Charles Wesley Godwin and The Wilder Blue, ‡with special guests Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny, Drew Parker and Colby Acuff, +with special guests The Avett Brothers, Charles Wesley Godwin, Hailey Whitters, The Wilder Blue, §with special guests Cody Jinks, Charles Wesley Godwin, Hailey Whitters, The Wilder Blue, ~with special guests Jordan Davis, TBA, Drew Parker, Colby Acuff
In a blazing crescendo of metal mastery, the Oncenter War Memorial in Syracuse bore witness to a seismic collision of sonic forces as Gojira and Mastodon united in a co-headlining tour that left the audience spellbound. The evening was an electrifying journey that began with the intense ferocity of Lorna Shore, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of melodic chaos and unbridled energy.
Lorna Shore ignited the atmosphere with an unrelenting onslaught of blistering tracks. The crowd was propelled into a maelstrom of sound as they unleashed the primal fury of “Sun//Eater” and the guttural intensity of “Cursed to Die.” The unapologetically heavy “Into The Earth” sent shockwaves through the venue, reverberating through the bones of every attendee.
However, it was the mesmerizing three-part opus of “Pain Remains” that truly captivated the audience, guiding them through an emotional odyssey that resonated deeply. The performance was more than just music; it was a cathartic release that manifested in fervent mosh pits, a swirling sea of bodies in harmonious chaos. Lorna Shore’s unyielding presence and raw energy served as an incendiary introduction that ignited the night’s fiery proceedings.
Gojira, the heralds of progressive metal, took the stage with an aura of enigmatic reverence. As the first notes of “Born for One Thing” reverberated, the crowd was transported into a sonic realm where the dichotomy of heaviness and melody coalesced seamlessly. “Backbone” and “Stranded” demonstrated the band’s masterful command of dynamics, alternating between thunderous riffs and ethereal passages that seemed to hang in the air like a delicate mist. The audience’s anticipation reached a fever pitch as the familiar opening of “Flying Whales” erupted, triggering a collective frenzy of headbanging and fist-pumping that reverberated throughout the venue.
Gojira’s performance was a showcase of musical finesse and emotional resonance. “The Cell” and “The Art of Dying” served as sonic tapestries, woven with intricate layers of sound that painted a vivid emotional landscape. A captivating drum solo added a mesmerizing dimension to the performance, capturing the audience’s attention in a hypnotic trance. But it was Gojira’s commitment to their eco-conscious message that truly set them apart. Tracks like “Amazonia” weren’t just songs but powerful rallying cries for environmental awareness, seamlessly merging artistry and activism on stage. As the night reached its zenith with the haunting strains of “The Gift of Guilt,” it was clear that Gojira had left an indelible mark not only on the audience’s ears, but also on their hearts and minds.
Mastodon, the titans of modern progressive metal, commanded the stage with a setlist that spanned their storied career. The opening salvo of “The Wolf Is Loose” and “Crystal Skull” unleashed a torrent of sonic energy that rippled through the crowd. The colossal force of “Megalodon” showcased Mastodon’s ability to craft massive, sludgy riffs that pummeled the audience like a sonic avalanche. The mesmerizing “Divinations” and the ethereal journey of “Andromeda” were a testament to the band’s genre-defying prowess, seamlessly blending elements of progressive, psychedelic, and classic metal into a cohesive sonic experience.
Tracks like “Sultan’s Curse” and “Fallen Torches” demonstrated the band’s dynamic range, effortlessly transitioning between intricate vocal harmonies and thunderous instrumental passages. A moment of introspection arrived with “Pushing The Tides,” a song that offered a glimpse into the emotional depth of Mastodon’s songwriting. The unrelenting assault of “Mother Puncher,” “Circle of Cysquatch,” and “Crusher Destroyer” created a maelstrom of mosh pits that bordered on ecstatic chaos, embodying the raw power that Mastodon’s music possesses. As the night reached its climactic conclusion with “Blood and Thunder,” a cathartic explosion of sound that left the crowd exhilarated and breathless, it was evident that Mastodon’s performance was a testament to their status as modern metal legends.
The co-headlining tour of Gojira and Mastodon, supported by the fierce energy of Lorna Shore, was a symphony of sonic majesty that transcended the boundaries of metal. Each band carved its own path through the night, weaving together a tapestry of emotion, intensity, and musical virtuosity that will resonate with fans for years to come.
Set Lists:
Lorna Shore: Sun//Eater, Cursed to Die, Into The Earth, Pain Remains I: Dancing Like Flames, Pain Remains II: After All I’ve Done, I’ll Disappear, Pain Remains III: In a Sea of Fire
Gojira: Born for One Thing, Backbone, Stranded, Flying Whales, The Cell, The Art of Dying, Drum Solo, Grind, Another World, Silvera, Amazonia, The Chant, The Gift of Guilt
Mastodon: The Wolf Is Loose, Crystal Skull, Megalodon, Divinations, Andromeda, Sultan’s Curse, Fallen Torches, Pushing The Tides, More than I Could Chew, Aqua Dementia, Steambreather, Iron Tusk, March of the Fire Ants, Mother Puncher, Circle of Cysquatch, Crusher Destroyer, Blood and Thunder
World Music Institute recently announced that Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer, and Shahzad Ismaily will be stopping at The Town Hall in Manhattan on September 14. The event will be a performance of the group’s self-titled 2023 album titled Love In Exile. Together, the trio concoct mesmerizing music by incorporating sonic elements from around the world.
Brooklyn-based vocalist Arooj Aftab burst onto the scene with her captivating debut project Bird Under Water in 2015. Since then, the Pakistan-born artist has been making waves for her alluring voice and varied musical range. With Love In Exile, Aftab partnered with esteemed pianist Vijay Iyer and instrumentalist Shahzad Ismaily to create a project unlike many others.
Jazz and South Asian traditions help to influence the sound of Love In Exile. Despite the album’s footing, it is a swirling and genreless piece of music. The project is as eerie as it is entrancing, and is truly a unique listening experience. As a group Love In Exile aims to deliver a spellbinding live show. The trio dips into the improvisatory soul of jazz and the Urdu poetic tradition to create a performance full of “timeless beauty and sudden surprise”.
What Is World Music Institute?
World Music Institute was founded in 1985 and has long stood as one of the pillars of American music and dance. The non-profit looks to bring the best music from around the world to venues throughout New York City. WMI attempts to foster awareness and appreciation for the cultural traditions of people across the globe through performances and conversations. The New York State Council on the Arts and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs partially support the program.
Kalia Vandever, a Brooklyn trombonist and composer, will open the show. Vanderver’s nuanced approach to the trombone is distinctive and defined by her resounding tone and lyrical improvisational voice. We Fell In Turn, her debut solo album, released back in March and featured works for trombone, voice, and electronics.
Here for tickets and more information about Love in Exile.
History was made on a warm summer night as hip-hop enthusiasts from around the world gathered in the heart of the Bronx for the monumental Hip Hop 50 concert at Yankee Stadium. The event was a celebration of the genre’s rich legacy, marking the 50th anniversary of hip hop, and featuring a star-studded lineup that spanned generations and showcased the evolution of hip-hop culture. Run DMC, one of hip-hop’s most iconic groups, took the stage for the final time, marking the end of an era and bringing a bittersweet yet triumphant close to the night.
Hip Hop 50 Concert
The Hip Hop 50 concert was a journey through time, paying homage to the genre’s pioneers, innovators, and current stars. Run DMC, one of hip-hop’s most iconic groups, took the stage for the final time, marking the end of an era and bringing a bittersweet yet triumphant close to the night.
The evening kicked off with an explosive opening set by Marley Marl, Mc Shan, and Craig G. The trio took the audience back to the roots of hip-hop with performances of classic tracks like “Symphony” and “The Bridge,” setting the tone for the night ahead.
Performers
As the concert unfolded, Ralph McDaniels, a prominent figure in the hip-hop community, orchestrated a series of nostalgic moments. Notably, the legendary DJ Kool Herc and his sister Cindy Campbell, both pivotal figures in the birth of hip-hop, graced the stage, bringing an aura of authenticity to the event. In like manner, the old school set that followed featured luminaries like Kurtis Blow, Roxanne Shante, and Grandmaster Caz, reminding everyone of the genre’s origins.
Additionally, Grandmaster Caz’s collaboration with Kool Mo Dee on “Otis” was a highlight that bridged the gap between eras, emphasizing the intergenerational bond that hip-hop nurtures. As the night progressed, Epmd took over the stage with hits like “What You Sayin’” and “You Gots to Chill,” showcasing the genre’s evolution into the ’90s.
Of course, the energy remained electric as Melle Mell and Scorpio, accompanied by Sugarhill Gang, delivered crowd-pleasers like “Rapper’s Delight,” “Apache,” and “The Message.” Slick Rick’s charismatic storytelling captivated the audience, with hits like “Young World,” “Mona Lisa,” and “Children’s Story” reminding everyone of his unique lyrical prowess.
As the evening continued, a poignant moment arrived when Kool Herc and his sister were brought back on stage, accompanied by Queen Mother, who bestowed a blessing upon Herc. This heartfelt gesture honored the pioneers who laid the foundation for hip-hop’s global phenomenon.
Comparatively, Lupe Fiasco’s soul-stirring performances of “Hip Hop Saved My Life” and “Superstar” highlighted the genre’s power to inspire and uplift. Likewise, Common’s freestyle prowess, coupled with tracks like “The Food” and “Go,” showcased his lyrical mastery and social consciousness.
The Women of Hip Hop
The spotlight then shifted to female rappers, with Remy Ma, Trina, Lola Brooke, and Lil’ Kim owning the stage with their fierce personas and anthems of empowerment. Chiefly, Lil’ Kim’s set culminated with a memorable collaboration with Lil’ Cease on “Crush on You,” reminding everyone of her undeniable impact on hip-hop’s landscape.
As the night drew on, the stage welcomed a diverse array of hip-hop royalty. For one thing, TI’s dynamic set, featuring hits like “Rubber Band Man” and “Whatever You Like,” kept the energy high.Meanwhile, Havoc of Mobb Deep brought forth the gritty essence of New York hip-hop with tracks like “Shook Ones” and “Survival of the Fittest.”
New York Takes Center Stage
In turn, Cam’ron’s performance of classics like “Oh Boy” and “Hey Ma” encapsulated the vibrant spirit of Harlem, while Ghostface Killah, alongside Inspectah Deck, Method Man, and Cappadonna, delivered Wu-Tang Clan classics that echoed through the stadium.
Kid Capri’s DJ skills added a touch of nostalgia as he spun classic tracks, and a surprise appearance by baseball legend Derek Jeter elicited cheers from the crowd. Moreover, A Boogie’s modern hits resonated with a new generation, while Fat Joe’s collaboration with KRS-One on “South Bronx” paid tribute to hip-hop’s geographical roots.
Similarly, Lil Wayne’s set was a reminder of his enduring influence, as he commanded the stage with hits like “Uproar” and “A Milli.” Ice Cube’s West Coast swagger brought a different flavor to the lineup, with “Today Was a Good Day” evoking nostalgic memories.
The West Has Something to Say
Furthermore, Snoop Dogg’s performance was a highlight, with classics like “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Gin and Juice” igniting the crowd. Collaborations with Too Short and Wiz Khalifa added to the excitement, and the legendary pairing of Dougie Fresh and Slick Rick for “La Di Da Di” was a testament to the genre’s timeless appeal.
As the night approached its climax, Nas graced the stage with his thought-provoking lyrics. A collaboration with Kool G Rap on “Fast Life” was a standout moment, and the surprise appearance of Lauryn Hill for hits like “Ready or Not” and “If I Ruled the World” brought an ethereal touch to the evening.
Hip Hop Royalty
Finally, at 1:30 AM, the crowd erupted as Run DMC made their way to the stage for their last performance. The group’s historic setlist, including “It’s Tricky,” “King of Rock,” and “Walk This Way,” resonated deeply with fans, encapsulating the essence of their groundbreaking career.
The Hip Hop 50 Yankee Stadium concert was a marathon of music, spanning from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and embodying the cultural and artistic evolution of hip-hop over five decades. This iconic event united generations, celebrated legends, and reminded everyone of hip-hop’s ability to transcend time, inspire change, and bring people together through the universal language of music. As the lights dimmed and the echoes of Run DMC’s final notes reverberated through the stadium, the audience departed with a renewed appreciation for the genre that had shaped lives and defined a culture for half a century.
Setlist: Rock Box, Sucker M.C.’s, Its Like That, It’s Tricky, Beats to the Rhyme, Mary Mary, King of Rock, Run’s House, Down With The King, Peter Piper, Charlie/Ruckus, You Be Illin’, Ooh Whatcha Gonna Do, My Adidas, Walk This Way.
