NYS Music 2023

Blog

  • Hearing Aide: The Hot Sardines ‘C’est La Vie’

    The Hot Sardines, an authentic New York City-based jazz band, released their newest album C’est La Vie on Aug. 4. The album arrived with ten highly complex tracks including covers and reinventions of jazz classics as well as original songs written by Elizabeth Bougerol and Evan Palazzo.

    The co-writes of C’est La Vie founded the lively Hot Sardines back in 2011, getting their start by playing various underground parties in Brooklyn. Since then, they have released six albums in total, all aiming to reinvigorate classic jazz music for the modern-day ear and spread their brand worldwide. With flourishing success taking them away from home time and time again, the band decided to record more music leading Bougerol to more thoroughly explore French influences which quickly took over what is now C’est La Vie.

    The new album is a bilingual project with tracks both in English and French, providing listeners with newly interpreted classics from “Moon River” to “La Vie En Rose” along with various impressive, original compositions. When it came to the track’s production, Bougerol and Palazzo called on collaborators from all over the world ranging from Los Angeles all the way to Beijing. The pair aimed to create a stripped-down sound to help them record nearly one-hundred-year-old songs remotely with modern technology while keeping their original spirit and polish alive. With transient instrumentals and Bougerol’s timeless voice, the album takes listeners on a beautiful musical journey and sets a relaxing tone encapsulating the essence of the motto “C’est La Vie.”

    The album is complete with track after track of slow and smooth jazz numbers supported by strong string and horn instrumentals with Bougerol’s voice slicing through it all. The co-founder’s vocal talent and control can be heard in every song and even takes on the Audrey Hepburn classic “Moon River.” Though the reinvention begins with seemingly risky harmonies presenting themselves as shaky and out of place, when the song picks up with a more classic jazz nightclub vibe and a laid-back tempo, it begins to truly shine. The classic lyrics continue to express the heartbreaking contradictions of relationships, but the musical composition supports the album’s title and overall message, conveying a newer interpretation to not take those heartbreaks so seriously because c’est la vie.

    When it comes to original songs sprinkled throughout, “Adieu L’amour” stands out among the rest with its diverting and more serious sound. From the very start, the song seems to mix with Latin American styles with its faster pace and conga drum-like sound. Where the song continues to divert is in its lyrics, which have outward emotions of spite and blame against the love whose lies “closed the door” possibly going to show that living by the shrug of the shoulder motto of “that’s life” isn’t as easy or as possible as it seems. What brings the track back to the unity of the jazz album is the strength of the band’s playing and Bougerol’s controlled vocals occasionally slipping into French.

    Throughout the album, there are numerous other highlights including a hushed “La Vie en Rose” duet between Bougerol and Bob Parins along with “Meet Me at the Bottom of the Bottle” which ends the album on a fantastic note. C’est La Vie is now available on various platforms along with a touching music video for “Moon River” directed by Greg Mottola.

    On top of their new album, The Hot Sardines have also lined up tour dates for 2023-2024 which began on July 15th and will continue sporadically through April. The band will visit locations all over the United States, Tokyo, and Toronto, including select stages across New York State including a debut at the infamous Carnegie Hall.

    Hot Sardines 2023-2024 Tour

    July 15 Huntington, NY  Chapin Rainbow Stage

    September 12-16 New York, NY  Birdland

    September 23 Morristown, NJ  Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival

    November 10-11 Charlotte, NC  Charlotte Symphony Orchestra

    November 27-30 New York, NY  Joe’s Pub

    December 7 Amherst, MA  Bowker Auditorium

    December 16 Tannersville, NY  Orpheum PAC

    December 19-21 Tokyo, Japan  Blue Note

    January 19 Richardson, TX  Eisemann Center

    January 20 Austin, TX  Parker Jazz Club

    January 21 San Antonio, TX  Jazz, TX

    January 24 Phoenix, AZ  Musical Instrument Museum

    January 25-26 Las Vegas, NV  Myron’s at the Smith Center

    January 27 Kansas City, MO  Folly Theater 

    February 14 Toronto, Canada  Koerner Hall

    April 19 New York, NY  Carnegie Hall

    April 20 Boston, MA  Berklee Performance Center

  • Sparta Celebrates 20 Years of ‘Wiretap Scars’ in Rochester

    Released in 2002, Wiretap Scars was the first full-length album for El Paso, Texas punk rock band, Sparta. After a few EPs and side projects, Jim Ward and company went all in to produce this album. While it was not met with the highest praise, the album and its members were applauded for getting this one out after a rough demise of a previous project.

    Members have come and gone, passion has come and gone, and then returned again. Two constants have remained with Sparta: lead vocalist Jim Ward and his partner in crime Matt Miller (although not from day one, he has been around long enough). When Wiretap Scars was conjured up, all band members contributed to writing, making it a complete group effort, which is something Ward really wanted.

    With the tour coming to an end, Miller and drummer Neil Hennessy made a stop in Rochester on Aug. 5, playing the rustic basement-styled Montage Music Hall. Off the beaten path, Montage seems like a dive bar as you walk by, but once you enter, you are taken into a special place, not like Narnia, but special in its own right. Posters of artists of yesteryear adorn the walls, stickers are plastered on board near the “ticket counter” that promote smaller bands, radio, stations, etc. This little gem of a venue hosts small acts, big acts, loud acts, and quieter ones. It is also a venue used during Rochester International Jazz Festival. A smaller elevated stage, with simpler lighting, this was a perfect landing spot for Sparta.

    In fashion, Ward, Miller, and Hennessy played Wiretap Scars in its entirety, without interruption. Being new to the band, I was intrigued by it all. The vocals, Hennessy on drums, and the intimate setting were all perfect and the overall sounds were reminiscent of the late 90s alternative flavors. While they identify as punk rock, there is nothing stopping the alternative feels.

    With the high energy “Cut Your Ribbon” starting the show-off, the 150 or so fans were immediately sucked into the time warp of the album and were not slowed any as the songs kept coming. When the final track was completed about 45 minutes later, fans were left wanting more. Young fans and those presumably in their mid-40s cheered on Ward as he talked about tearing up Rochester after the show. With Sunday off, they have some time to see what the city has to offer.

    Continuing for another half hour or so, Sparta kept the energy alive, playing tracks from more recent albums including the self-titled album, Trust The River (2020), and Threes (2006). Unlike many other bands, Ward and Sparta do not do encores. He said it in part due to him being lazy, but mainly “just play the whole fucking set.” No need to get dolled up and splash on fresh cologne or chug half of a beer. Alas, there is no encore on this night.

    In a recent interview, Ward talked about how he likes that the band, either past or present, isn’t a one-man show. Ideas are bounced off each other, and he trusts the musicians with their feedback. During the pandemic, which sadly coincided with the new album release, Ward would create some music and send it off to Miller and ask him to make some music to go with it as a guitarist. For him, it was easier to do that, because the body language of either party could not be read. He felt that element led to a lot of compromise.

    I learned a long time ago to not say never.

    Jim Ward, on working with a band together in a studio again

    Twenty years later, Sparta has given itself new life. Wiretap Scars is one of those albums that may have gotten lost on you, but lucky for all of us, we have 24/7 access to their music with streaming services. Give them a listen for the first time or pick up where you left off and keep on rocking.

    Setlist: (from Wiretap Scars) Cut Your Ribbon, Air, Mye, Collapse, Sans Cosm, Light Burns Clear, Cataract, Red Alibi, Rx Coup, Glasshouse Tarot, Echodyne Harmonic, Assemble the Empire

    Breaking the Broken, While Oceana Sleeps, Empty House, Miracle, Atlas

  • Stress Dolls Release New Single Ahead of Live Performance

    Buffalo artist Stress Dolls released a new single, “Body,” preceding a performance at Funk ‘N Waffles in Syracuse.

    Stress Dolls is the moniker of Chelsea O’Donnell, an alt/pop/rock artist from Buffalo. Originally the name of a band, O’Donnell adopted the Stress Dolls title for herself and decided to move to Nashville after the group split up in 2017.

    However, chronic health issues led to O’Donnell’s hospitalization less than a year later. After undergoing a feeding tube procedure, O’Donnell moved back to Buffalo, and after a period of recovery, began writing, performing, and recording again. Largely due to the tentative nature of her health, O’Donnell established Stress Dolls as a solo act in order to decrease stress and go at her own pace.

    During this time, O’Donnell wrote “Body.” The song is a reflection of O’Donnell’s complicated relationship with her body in the face of ongoing health concerns, including Crohn’s disease and gastroparesis.

    “I’m working on not pitting blame, or shame, on my body anymore, and through that practice I’ve realized that, really, the body is amazing.” O’Donnell said. “Mine withstood all of that anger, angst, stress, and physical anguish, and with some help, it found ways to heal. I’m learning to be a friend to my body instead of an opponent, and that’s making all the difference.”

    O’Donnell released “Body” as Stress Dolls on June 2. Stream the song on Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube, Soundcloud, or Tidal.

    Stress Dolls will also be performing at Funk ‘n Waffles in Syracuse on Sept. 2 with special guests Mimicking Mars and Amphette. Purchase tickets here.

  • Maria Muldaur’s Announces Retrospective Tour, Way Past Midnight

    This year marks the 50th Anniversary of Maria Muldaur’s chart-topping hit “Midnight at the Oasis.” To celebrate this milestone, she and her band will be embarking on a special tour with stops throughout New York, presenting Muldaur’s multi-media retrospective show, Way Past Midnight, which will chronicle her 60-year musical journey.

    In this one-of-a-kind multi-media retrospective, Mulduar chronicles her 60-year musical journey through American Roots Music, to The Oasis and Beyond. Mulduar and her band will perform her iconic hits, such as “Midnight at the Oasis,” “I’m A Woman,” and more. They will also play many oft-requested fan favorites from the 43 albums she has recorded in the last 50 years.

    Mulduar will treat audiences to previously unseen photos and videos and will share fascinating, often humorous personal stories from every stage of her 60-year career, spanning from her early days in the 60s with The Jim Kweskin Jug Band to her years of pop stardom, and on to her continuing exploration of the many forms of American Roots Music – Blues, Bluesiana, Jazz, and Gospel.

    Way Past Midnight tells Maria Muldaur’s story in words, pictures, videos, and songs. Through this, she allows fans insight into her personal encounters, friendships, and collaborators, including many notable names in music: Bob Dylan, Doc Watson, Taj Mahal, Dr. John, Aaron Neville, John Sebastian, David Grisman, Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Wonder, Hoagy Carmichael, and Benny Carter, amongst others.

    Tour Dates and More Information

    Friday, September 8, at 8 pm at My Father’s Place

    3 Pratt Blvd, Glen Cove, NY, Tickets $40 ADV/$50 DOS.

    For tickets and venue information, visit this link.

    Thursday, September 14, 8:30 pm at The Iridium

    1650 Broadway, New York, NY, 10019, Tickets: $35.56 – $49.

    For tickets and venue information, visit this link.

    Saturday, September 16, 7 pm at The Vogel – Count Basie Center for the Arts

    99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ, 07701, Tickets: $39+.

    For venue information, visit this link. Find tickets for the event on ticketmaster.

    Sunday, September 17, 4 pm at The Turning Point

    468 Piermont Avenue, Piermont, NY, 10968,Tickets: $31.80.

    For venue information and tickets, visit this link.

  • In Focus: Legends Rise As Godsmack and Staind Rock Lakeview Amphitheater

    It was a reunion of sorts on Thursday at the Lakeview Amphitheater in Syracuse, as hard rockers Godsmack and Staind joined forces for an impressive twin bill. The pair of Massachusetts-based bands have toured extensively together since 1998.

    The tour was designed in part to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Godsmack. The band, who released Lighting Up the Sky (2023) earlier this year, has announced that this will be their last studio release, however, lead singer Sully Erna has gone on record to state the band will continue touring. Boasting an impressive resume of eight studio albums with over twenty million albums sold, the band has maintained the same four members throughout the twenty-five years of existence. Frontman Sully Erna (vocals, guitar, percussion) is joined by Tony Rombola (guitar), Robbie Merrill (bass guitar), and Shannon Larkin (drums).  

    The evening’s festivities kicked off with a thirty-minute set by Mix Master Mike. Known for his years as the turntablist with the Beastie Boys, Mix Master Mike was able to fill the amphitheater with early energy and excitement, as he played a mixture of Beastie Boys tracks along with other hit tracks primarily from the 1990s.  

    After a brief set changeover, the back side of the stage was illuminated to show various screens and projection monitors. As Staind took to the stage the screens would display cinematic-style scenes and images tying in to the songs being played. Staind launched into their new single “Lowest In Me” from their forthcoming release Confessions of the Fallen. Aaron Lewis (vocals, guitar) quickly put his signature vocals on display, showcasing one of the more familiar voices in rock music. His bandmates proved to be no slouches either, as Mike Mushok (guitars) jumped, thrashed, and head-banged throughout the set. 

    The band would perform for 75 minutes with a set that included several hit tracks from the early 2000s, such as “Outside,” “It’s Been Awhile,” “Fade,” and “Epiphany.”  As the set neared a close, the amphitheater filled with the familiar bass guitar rumble of the song “Mudshovel,” the band’s breakthrough track in 1999. This brought the crowd to their feet, singing and screaming along with Lewis, as he strutted about the stage.  

    After the set a white sheet would drape over the stage, hiding the set up behind. As it came time for Godsmack to take the stage, Mike Master Mike was projected across the screen.  Several arena rock anthem tracks were played to further build excitement. Eventually, the sheet would drop to reveal a black sheet with the familiar Godsmack sun logo. A few seconds later, and with a burst of fireworks, the headliners would take to the stage. Godsmack immediately launched into the high-energy title track of their 2018 release When Legends Rise.  

    The band would keep the energy going as they moved on to 1000hp, playing in front of a slew of flames and other pyrotechnics.  During the band’s hit track “Voodoo” the flames would again make a return, as fireballs would rise from the stage, almost as if they were dancing with the song’s cryptic rift.  As the set moved on, Larkin’s drum riser would to the front of the stage, and be joined by a second drum set. Erna would then take a seat behind the kit and the pair would then put on an impressive percussion battle on “Batalla de los Tambores.”  

    After a brief encore break, Erna would return to the stage and take a seat behind a piano. He talked about the importance of community and discussed the band’s charity, the Scars Foundation, a nonprofit organization designed to provide mental health services to local communities. Erna would then perform the beautiful track “Under Your Scars.” The song not only showcased Erna’s talent as a songwriter but also his diverse musical ability and his strength as a person. His bandmates would then return to the stage for the evening’s final two tracks, “Bulletproof” and “I Stand Alone.”  

  • Tower Records and Rockbox Studios to Release Exclusive Edition of “Life House,” a Graphic Novel by The Who

    Life House, the heavily anticipated, long-awaited rock opera by The Who is finally seeing grand-scale release after over 50 years in the making. Tower Records, the legendary music chain that shaped the landscape of the pre-digital music industry, and Rockbox Studios are set to release an edition of the graphic novel signed by Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey, limited to 1,000 units now available for pre-order. Later this year, standard and deluxe versions of the graphic novel will be available.

    Additionally, a Who’s Next/Life House Edition box set from UMe will be released on Sept. 15. Additional information is available here. Featuring 155 tracks, 89 of which are previously unreleased and 57 feature fresh remixes, the Super Deluxe edition of Who’s Next/Life House will contain 10 CDs and a 100-page hardback book and Life House – The Graphic Novel.

    Background

    Townshend originally conceived “Life House” in 1970, a motion picture rock opera following the success of The Who’s multi-platinum selling album, Tommy. The science fiction narrative centers on a dystopian, totalitarian society where music is prohibited, successfully anticipating phenomena such as climate change, the internet, streaming media, and racial equality.

    The Who worked for almost a year developing the album at the Young Vic Theatre in London, but ultimately decided to release elements on their 1971 bestselling album, Who’s Next. In 1999, Townshend released a solo compilation of the project entitles The Lifehouse Chronicles. For decades, Life House has been considered a prized item for fans of The Who, one which will be realized later this year.

    ’Life House’ has always needed a story that makes sense but without the egos of new creatives who think they can ‘fix’ what was wrong with my first draft. The graphic novel is built around that first draft written prior to recording sessions and workshops at the Young Vic in 1971. A second draft with some good ideas from Roger in 1976 added some cohesion and more exciting collateral which really suits the comic format. I’m delighted with the comic. The art is beautiful and dense, colourful of course and engaging. The artists and their team have made an amazing and hugely collectible piece that adds depth and clarity to an otherwise complex story. ‘Life House’ is reborn. Tower Records was an iconic L.A. vinyl store in the ‘70s. I never failed to visit when touring and it’s possible that around 75% of my remaining collection is from the store. It’s great news to hear Tower is back in black!

    Pete Townshend

    The graphic novel, a 172-page sprawling sci-fi epic, is presented in an album-sized square format. The Tower Records edition, signed by Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey is extremely limited and will carry a retail price of $1,000 and is available for pre-order now exclusively on Tower Records’ website. Universal’s Who’s Next/Life House box set will be launching later this year and the book’s release from Image Comics will come on Dec. 6, 2023.

    “At Tower Records, our main goal is to help artists tell their stories in music and beyond,” said Danny Zeijdel, President of Tower Records. “’Life House’ embodies this, and we are honored to be a platform for the legendary Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, and The Who as they share this exciting project with the world.”

    Townshend met Rockbox Studios CEO, Jeff Krelitz, several years ago and discussed the potential for the project. They worked with writer and artist James Harvey to develop the story and look at the world as a future seen from a 1970 point of view. British writer David Hine and Australian artist, Max Prentis, were brought in to complete the project, which was edited by former Bleeding Cool Editor-In-Chief, Hannah Means-Shannon. Additionally, letters were provided by Micah Myers with inks by the Eisner Award-winning artist, Mick Gray.

    “’Who’s Next’ has always been one of my favorite albums and the opportunity to help Pete advance his vision for ‘Life House’ with this graphic novel is a dream come true,” said Krelitz. “Having been a part of the team rebuilding Tower Records’ legacy for the last few years, I couldn’t imagine a better home for this exciting epic that music fans have been waiting half a century on.”

    About Tower Records

    Founded in 1960 by Russ Solomon, Tower Records developed from a business he founded as a teenager to resell 78 rpm jukebox records in his father’s Sacramento drug store, into a record retail behemoth that operated dozens of stores across the United States. Tower Records defined the retail music business in the pre-digital era and at its peak had nearly 200 stores across 15 countries, and more than $1 billion in annual sales.

    Known for its enormous volume and its audiophile behind-the-counter staff, Tower Records became the mecca for in-store performances and recording artist events, placing it at No. 1 among U.S. music merchants. Today, Tower Records is transcending its historic past by creating online experiences and exciting partnerships with artists, labels, and brands for all music fans to “Know Music, Know Life.”

    Since the relaunch of Tower Records in 2020, the iconic music brand has been offering music and art fans exclusive merchandise drops including limited edition vinyl releases and branded products. Tower Records quickly rose to be a top online retailer for physical music in North America and the brand recently launched an additional online store in Europe. For news and to sign up for upcoming events and vinyl drops at Tower Labs visit here.

  • Jelly Roll Baptized a Packed House in Western NY

    Playing to a packed house at Darien Lake Amphitheater, Country rapper Jelly Roll brought his Backroad Baptism to Western NY on Aug. 3. Fans in attendance were in for one hell of a show by Jelly Roll and opening acts Struggle Jennings and Caitlynne Curtis.

    While I did not make it in time for the opening acts, I did manage to catch the end of Struggle Jennings set. Not knowing much about him, I did talk to a few fans, and he seems to have a good following, as everyone I spoke with said that he is a regular on their streaming services. What I did get from his set was that, like Jelly Roll, Struggle Jennings (William Curtis Harness Jr) has a troubled past with prison time included. Lucky for him and for us, he has found the right path and is making the most of every opportunity. He has a voice that one cannot just describe, yet it matches his style and muse perfectly.

    Wake up tomorrow and make it the best fucking day of your life

    Struggle Jennings

    Like his successor on stage, Jennings is a humble dude. He spoke about how everything happens for a reason, and you need to take advantage of every opportunity that is thrown your way, and he used his own daughter as an example. With him being incarcerated, and the mother of his child passing away, his daughter was in and out of foster care and dealt with her own demons along the way, but kept her head up and graduated with high honors and is heading off to college. 

    After dabbling in the rap and hip-hop markets for about ten years, the Tennessee native entered the country market and immediately made a name for himself. His unique vocals, inspirational messages, and powerful range have led him to be one of the most recognizable names in music today. With his current tour barely underway, Jelly Roll is riding high on music charts as well, with his latest album Whitsitt Chapel sitting at number two in iTunes’s top 100 country albums and is up there on Billboard rock/alternative chart as well.

    Getting back to the show at Darien Lake, Jelly Roll hit the stage around 9 p.m., with his drummer welcoming him with a solid little beat. He starts the night off in absolute style, with “The Lost,” “Hate Goes On,” and “Halfway to Heaven,” with the latter heating up with pyrotechnics joining the party. It is clear at this point the next 90 minutes are going to be loud, fun, and hot. Talking about his roots and how he came to country music, Jelly Roll spoke about the power of 90s country and unleashes a mash-up of covers starting with the very vocal Toby Keith.

    Naturally, the crowd sang along as he rolled through four or five songs. At this point, I think the only fans left sitting were way back on the lawn. The crowd was pumped up and made Jelly smile from ear to ear. He talked about Buffalo and the area and of course the well-known Bills Mafia. He played Darien Lake on Tuesday, after a Buffalo Bills Monday night game and he said the crowd was something he had yet to see, with the Mafia out in full force. He added that it really made an impression on him about the passion that Bills fans have. 

    Onward with the music, he does a couple more covers, starting with a mix of The Animal’s “The House of The Rising Sun.” Very much making it his own, he nailed the melancholy rhythm and with some effects of the fire towers on stage, this arrangement instantly becomes a talking piece. His next cover was that of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man,” which holds a special place in Jelly’s heart. With an acoustic vibe, this piece was done perfectly and with the crowd chiming in for the final verse, the mix became complete.

    As Jelly Roll finished his set, one can look around and see what a diverse group he gathers. Out on the lawn, there are grown men, chugging Bud Light and rocking t-shirts. You see the younger crowd, discretely vaping and dancing to every beat. There are groups of older folks who you might have thought took a wrong turn on the way to bingo, yet they are having a time listening to this 38-year-old rapper turned country star. Jelly Roll is the star that doesn’t just attract country music fans of a certain demographic. He manages to lure in everyone with his humbleness, simple messages, and simple charm. While he has been in the music business for several years, Jelly Roll is now just making his mark and defining who he is in the field of music.  

    our windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror for a reason. Cuz what’s in front of you is much more important that what’s behind you…”

    Jelly Roll

    Set list: The Lost, Hate Goes On, Halfway to Hell, Creature, Dead Man Walking, Son of a Sinner, Country Medley/mix, She, Dancing With The Devil, Teaks Could Talk, Dirty South, Bottle And Mary Jane, Need a Favor, House of Rising Sun medley, Wheels Fall Off/Kill a Man, Fall in the Fall, Simple Man (Lynyrd Skynyrd), Smoking Section, Save Me

  • The Planes’ Release Triumphant Summer Single “Thrift Store”

    The Planes, a New York City indie rock band, has released their summer single “Thrift Store,” which is a part of the larger album Dark Matter Recycling Co. The new album will release on Sept. 15.

    The Planes

    The Planes were originally founded in 2010 by Stephen Otto Perry and are known for their deft songwriting and loud performances. Alongside Perry, who plays guitar and writes the songs, are drummer Don Lavis and bassist Jackie Perrone.

    “Thrift Store” is a loud, triumphant piece, the guitars, and drums layered above the vocals. The vocals provide a smooth undercurrent, maintaining a low volume throughout. This is contrasted by the instrumentals, which occasionally dive up and down in volume.

    The song flows into itself, with not many clear breaks between chorus and verse. There are sometimes absences in either instrumentals or vocals, which helps mix up the track.

    The full-length album, Dark Matter Recycling Co. will release on Sept. 15 through Totally Real Records in the United States and Safe Suburban Home Records in the United Kingdom.

    For more on The Planes, check out their Instagram, Facebook, Bandcamp, or Spotify.

  • In Focus: Main Street Music Series in Cortland

    Last night marked the grand finale of the CFCU Main Street Music Series in Cortland, NY, as music enthusiasts gathered for the third consecutive weekend of unforgettable performances. The stage was set for an extraordinary night featuring local talent, multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter, Bradford Allen, as well as the dynamic Fall Creek Brass Band. The anticipation was palpable, knowing that the night would culminate with the headlining blues sensation, Vanessa Collier, a recent 2022 BMA winner and 2023 nominee.

    Cortland CFCU Main Street Music Series at Courthouse Park

    Kicking off the evening was Upstate New York native, Bradford Allen, whose musical prowess and versatile artistry set the perfect tone for the night. Armed with multiple instruments and an enchanting voice, Allen effortlessly captivated the audience with his soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, it was no surprise that his set was an expertly crafted blend of musical brilliance that left the crowd wanting more.

    Sunset over Courthouse Park – Main Street Music Series

    Following Allen’s memorable performance, the Fall Creek Brass Band took to the stage. Fall Creek Brass Band’s roots run deep, having formed over a decade ago at Dryden High School. From those early days to the present, they have remained an integral part of the local music scene, gracing stages at various festivals and shows. Their opening set was an explosion of energy, as the Fall Creek Brass Band’s infectious rhythms and soulful melodies got the audience grooving from the first note. Their performance was a testament to the power of homegrown talent, leaving no doubt that they are destined for even greater heights in the future.

    Fall Creek Brass Band

    Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Blues sensation Vanessa Collier is up next. A true force to be reckoned with, Collier took the stage by storm, exuding charisma and musical finesse from the very first note. Her award-winning talent and undeniable stage presence immediately earned the adoration of the crowd. As a recent 2022 BMA winner and 2023 nominee, her extraordinary musicianship was on full display. With her saxophone in hand and a voice that could move mountains. Collier delivered a spellbinding performance that transcended genre boundaries.

    Vanessa Collier

    As the night drew to a close, and the echoes of Vanessa Collier’s final notes lingered in the air, the crowd erupted in applause and cheers, showing their deep appreciation for the unforgettable performances of the CFCU Main Street Music Series. The three-weekend extravaganza had been a resounding success. Showcasing not only local talent but also bringing the community together and leaving everyone looking forward to next year.

    Fall Creek Brass Band

  • SPAC Announces 2023-24 Spa Little Theatre Season

    Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announced its 2023-24 Spa Little Theatre season. It will feature a robust slate of global, jazz, classical, and pop offerings. The announcement marks the continuation of SPAC’s year-round programming in the Spa Little Theatre.

    Spa Little Theatre New Season

    Highlighting the series are the SPAC debuts of Grammy-nominated mandolinist Avi Avital alongside accordionist Hanzhi Wang. Also featured is the all-female jazz ensemble säje. Moreover, other performances include contemporary world music virtuosos TISRA: Zakir Hussain With Debopriya Chatterjee and Sabir Kahn. Additionally, there will be appearances by the recently announced modern dance troupes Pilobolus and BalletX. The year-round residency by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will also continue with three special performances.

    The “Sounds of the Season” series will also return this December. It will feature a capella group Kings Return, trio Time for Three, and vocalist Kat Edmonson.

    BalletX.

    “While we have continued to expand our programming outside of the summer months in recent years, being able to inhabit the Spa Little Theatre year-round has opened up new possibilities for our year-round line-up of programming. Our 2023-24 season is a diverse and rich mix of incredible artistry offering everything from jazz to global to classical music along with full modern dance productions,” said SPAC President and CEO Elizabeth Sobol.

    Tickets for the 2023-24 Spa Little Theatre season will be available to purchase on Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. for members and Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. for the general public. Multi-ticket packages will also be available in selections of three or five programs (excluding Sounds of the Season) for a discount of 15% or 20%, respectively. Visit spac.org for details.

    2023 Fall Season

    Pilobolus- Sunday, October 8, 2023, | 2 PM & 7 PM

    Pilobolus’s show reminds us that play and creativity are fundamental to the human experience and that stories are alive and breathing. Stories can also teach, comfort, and connect us to ourselves and each other. Building on the success of their critically acclaimed Big Five-OH! Anniversary tour, Pilobolus moves confidently into the next half-century of creation and performance. Alongside groundbreaking new pieces, the company breathes new life into beloved works from the past to create an experience both timely and timeless.

    Avi Avital & Hanzhi Wang– Thursday, October 19, 2023, | 7 PM

    GRAMMY-nominated mandolinist Avi Avital will make his SPAC debut alongside star accordionist Hanzhi Wang, in a truly unique program that will showcase each artist’s incredible virtuosity. Avital is the first mandolin soloist ever nominated for a Grammy and has been heralded by The New York Times for his electrifying performances. Wang is a rising talent in the classical world, recently winning a roster spot with Young Concert Artists (YCA), the first accordionist ever to do so.

    Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: American Panorama– Saturday, October 28 | 7 PM

    Led by CMS Artistic Directors David Finckel and Wu Han, this program will feature a roster of 13 musicians in a special performance of Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring along with works by Dvořák and American Composers Arthur Foote and Harry Burleigh.

    säje– Saturday, November 11 | 7 PM

    The GRAMMY® nominated vocal supergroup, säje, is the brainchild of vocalist/composers Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick, and Erin Bentlage. Traversing a vast array of compelling original material, beloved jazz standards, and contemporary re-imaginings of artists such as The Bad Plus, YEBBA, and Björk, the all-female collective has demonstrated their devotion to thoughtful, sophisticated original compositions and heartfelt covers. Their highly anticipated debut album is expected to be released in the summer of 2023. It will feature new original work and compelling covers, highlighting collaborations with artists Jacob Collier, Ambrose Akinmusire, and more. 

    2023 Sounds of the Season

    Kings Return: We 4 Kings– Saturday, December 2 | 7 PM

    The Grammy-nominated Kings Return is back by popular demand following their SPAC debut last spring. The unique, harmonizing group turned internet sensation captures the essence of an old-school a cappella quartet with sounds inspired by gospel and R&B. Kings Return features tenor Vaughn Faison, bass Gabe Kunda, tenor JE McKissic, and baritone Jamall Williams. Their We 4 Kings program features pop, classical, and religious holiday classics. It also reinterprets modern and classic pop, soul, R&B, gospel, jazz, and sacred music.

    Time for Three: Home for the Holidays– Saturday, December 9 | 7 PM

    Defying convention and boundaries, Time For Three stands at the busy intersection of Americana, modern pop, and classical music. The trio featuring Charles Yang, Nicolas Kendall, and Ranaan Meyer, will present arrangements of Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, and more. Additionally, they will also present special arrangements of holiday favorites.

    Kat Edmonson: Holiday Swingin’!– Sunday, December 17 | 4 PM

    Kat Edmonson is an award-winning songwriter and singer “with an equal foothold in jazz, cabaret, and vintage cosmopolitanism pop” (The New York Times). The songwriter and her band will perform Yuletide favorites along with Kat’s originals for a magical holiday evening celebration.

    2024 Spring Season

    Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: Instrumental Array– Saturday, March 9 | 7 PM

    In a celebration of instrumental odd couples, three duo teams highlight the extremes of possibility for their ensembles. Maurice Duruflé’s post-Romantic trio augments the duo format. All join for the concluding Septet by virtuoso pianist Johann Hummel, who was a pupil of Mozart and Haydn and was admired by Beethoven.

    BalletX– Saturday, March 16 | 7 PM and Sunday, March 17 | 2 PM

    Led by Artistic and Executive Director Christine Cox, BalletX creates extraordinary dance experiences that inspire human connection through live performances, dance education in Philadelphia public schools, free community pop-ups, and more. The company also offers free community pop-ups, dance classes, artist Q&As, open rehearsals, and in-school dance education.

    TISRA: Zakir Hussain With Debopriya Chatterjee and Sabir Kahn– Saturday, March 23 | 7 PM

    The pre-eminent classical tabla virtuoso of our time, Zakir Hussain is appreciated both in the field of percussion and in the music world at large as an international phenomenon. Hussain will lead his ensemble TISRA (three) with two of India’s finest young musicians, Sabir Khan and Debopriya Chatterjee. Showcasing rich folk and classical traditions, this unique trio is comprised of tabla, sarangi, and bansuri (bamboo flute). This colorful mix, combined with Indian classical music and the rich rhythm repertoire of Punjab, makes for a compelling program.

    Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: Wu Han, David Finckel, and Chad Hoopes– Saturday, May 11 | 7 PM 

    Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Artistic Directors Wu Han and David Finckel return to end the season with guest violinist Chad Hoopes.