The Catamount Resort Summer Series is wrapping up a jam-packed season of programming with three shows in August. Taking place over multiple weeks, the series started back on July 7 and will run until August 18. Each concert takes place on Friday from 4:30pm to 8:00pm at Catamount Mountain Resort in Hillsdale.
Boasting a lineup of local and regional bands, the Catamount Resort Summer Series looks to bring quality music to the beautiful Taconic Mountains. Past performers from this year include Sister Funk, Hedtrip, and Eric Harpe and the Delta Swingers.
Along with music, the series will also have a variety of tasty food and drink options. Organizers encourage guests to bring their own lawn chair however there are picnic tables available at the venue. Multiple of the resort’s outdoors activities will also operate with extended hours during the series, including a Zip Tour, Aerial Adventure Park, and Scenic Chairlift Rides.
The Catamount Resort Summer Series is free and open to the public. Here for more details and information about the event.
August Schedule
Aug. 4- The Silver Chain Band
Based out of Albany, The Silver Chain Band has performed across the country. From playing gigs at local New York hotspots to rocking venues down in Memphis, the group delivers impassioned performances wherever they are. Silver Chain builds on a solid foundation of Blues Folk, with elements of electric blues, and a sprinkle of rock. Their music is influenced by ZZ Top, Sonny Boy Williamson, JR Wells, Paul Butterfield, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Freddy King, Albert King, and Bill Perry, just to name a few.
Aug. 11- Victrola
Led by vocalist Victoria Palagy, Victrola is known for their creative covers of pop, rock, and blues tracks. Victoria is joined onstage with Ray Palagy, Patti Richardson, John Keane and Leo Brennan Jr.
Aug. 18- The Saints
The Saints are an experienced band that has been together for 25 years. The group loves to get the crowd moving with feel-good dance music. Perfect for the summer months, enjoy the Saints as they close out The Catamount Resort Summer Series.
Legendary blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa recently released a new song titled “Well, I Done Got Over It”. The track was originally released by Guitar Slim back in 1953. Bonamassa’s rendition is part of his upcoming Oct. 6 album Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. The project comes 20 years after the New York native’s breakthrough album Blues Deluxe.
Photo Credit: Robert Sutton
“Well, I Done Got Over It’ is a high-energy tune that perfectly captures all of the attitude and groove of classic blues-rock songs. Packed with the rich sounds of horns and capped off with an impressive guitar solo, the track showcases every ounce of Bonamassa’s artistic ability.
“My father introduced me to Guitar Slim a long time ago, back when I was a kid… He has such a velvety smooth voice, and he had such a way of delivering a song. We did a very British take on this Guitar Slim song, it’s like the Blues Breakers meets Guitar Slim meets Joe Bonamassa, Josh Smith and company”
Joe Bonamassa
Born in New Hartford but raised in Utica, Bonamassa discovered music at an early age. By the time he was 12, Bonamassa was traveling around the state playing various local shows. The guitarist made a name for himself off of debut 2000 album A New Day Yesterday, which reached the #9 spot Billboard Blues chart. From 2002-06 Bonamassa had five albums reach the Blues Top 10, including his 2003 effort Blues Deluxe.
Bonamassa’s new project will see the Grammy-nominated artist return to some of his original sources of inspiration. Blues Deluxe Vol. 2 features two new original songs as well as eight new covers. The album also gets contributions fromReese Wynans (keys), Calvin Turner (bass), Lamar Carter (drums), Kirk Fletcher (guitar), and Josh Smith (guitar).
“Well, I Done Got Over It” follows the release of the album’s previous single “Twenty-Four Hour Blues” which dropped back in June. The song is a rip-roaring interpretation of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s classic song which was released in 1974. Bonamassa’s version includes an inspired and passionate vocal and guitar performance.
“The outro guitar solo is incredible… It happened live on the floor and has some deep lines you’ve probably never heard Joe play before. The band is absolutely smoking, and Calvin Turner did an incredible String and Horn arrangement. Super proud of this one”
Guitarist Josh Smith
Bonamassa has a slew of performance dates during the Summer and Fall. Stops in New York include shows at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Here for album pre-orders and details. Check out here for tour tickets and additional information.
Summer 2023 U.S. Tour
August 2 – Vina Robles Amphitheatre – Paso Robles, CA
August 4 – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – Las Vegas, NV
August 5 – Eccles Theater – Salt Lake City, UT
August 6 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO
August 9 – Hollywood Bowl – Los Angeles, CA^
August 12 – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater – Wantagh, NY
August 13 – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – Bethel, NY
Fall 2023 U.S. Tour
October 23 – Memphis, TN – The Cannon Center
October 25 – Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
October 27 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theatre
October 28 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre At Sugar Land
October 29 – Austin, TX – ACL Live
November 1 – Fayetteville, AR – Walton Arts Center
November 3 – Little Rock, AR – Robinson Performance Hall
November 4 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre
November 5 – Oklahoma City, OK – Civic Center Music Hall
November 8 – Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Theater
November 10 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre
November 11 – St. Louis, MO – The Fabulous Fox
November 12 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Paramount Theatre
November 14 – Rochester, MN – Mayo Civic Center
November 15 – Rockford, IL – Coronado Performing Arts Center
November 17 – Fort Wayne, IN – Embassy Theatre
November 18 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre
November 19 – Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre
November 21 – Reading, PA – The Santander Performing Arts Center
November 22 – Providence, RI – Providence Performance Arts Center
November 24 – Springfield, MA – Symphony Hall
November 25 – Baltimore, MD – The Lyric
November 28 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theatre
November 30 – Sarasota, FL – Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
The Empire State Plaza’s Center for the Performing Arts, or The Egg, recently announced that Maria Muldaur, Taj Mahal and Sona Jobarteh would all be joining the Albany venue’s 2023-24 programming. Muldaur is scheduled to perform on Sept. 15 with Taj Mahal and Jobarteh stopping by on March 7, 2024.
The Egg is a state-owned entity created to bring quality artists and performances to New Yorkers. Besides music, the venue showcases several forms of art including dance, comedy, film, and theater. Originally constructed in 1978, The Egg features two theaters and can comfortably house over 1,400 visitors.
Since its inception, the venue has attracted some of the biggest names in arts and entertainment. Past performers include Roger McGuinn, Chaka Khan, Dave Chappelle, Eric Burdon, Margaret Cho, and Buddy Guy.
Maria Muldaur- September 15, 7:30 PM
Making music for over 55 years, American folk/roots artist Maria Muldaur became a household name thanks to her 1973 hit song “Midnight at the Oasis”. Released as a single, the track received a Grammy nomination and has since become one of the quintessential songs in the genre. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the bubbly and infectious tune, she will perform the song along with the help of the Red Hot Bluesiana Band. Together, the two will showcase some of Muldaur’s classic blues, country, folk, swing, and pop offerings. The performance will also include some of the artist’s collaborative work with the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Tuba Skinny, and Taj Mahal. Here for tickets and information about the performance at The Egg.
Taj Mahal & Sona Jobarteh- March 7, 7:30 PM
Taj Mahal has established himself as one of the world’s premier blues musicians throughout his extensive career. The Harlem-born artist is known for melding together the sounds of traditional American blues with elements from the Caribbean, Africa, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Originally rising to prominence in the 1960s, Taj has earned three Grammy awards and ten nominations. In 2014 he was awarded the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Sona Jobarteh is a Gambian singer, composer, and instrumentalist credited for being a master of the Kora stringed instrument. With her diverse and ethereal sound Jobarteh has been hailed as one of the biggest upcoming stars in world music. Blending traditional West African, blues, pop, and even afro beats, Jobarteh has amassed fans from all over the globe. Here for tickets and information about the performance.
To check out The Egg’s full schedule of performances click here.
Central Park’s SummerStage played host to an extraordinary evening of blues music as the legendary Buddy Guy took to the stage as part of his “Damn Right Farewell Tour.” The event featured an exceptional lineup of opening acts, including Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Samantha Fish, who set the stage ablaze with their own brilliant performances. But it was Buddy Guy himself who stole the show, leaving the crowd in awe of his virtuosity and stage presence.
Buddy Guy at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23
Samantha Fish, the incredibly talented blues-rock artist, opened the show. Adding to the excitement, she brought along her collaborator and fellow Texas guitarist, Jesse Dayton, with whom she had recently released their first collaborative album, “Deathwish Blues.” The electrifying night began with the title track, which instantly captivated the audience. Throughout the set, the duo showcased their musical chemistry, delivering standout performances of Dayton-led songs like “Down in the Mud.” The set reached its climax with the powerful and infectious “Riders,” a song that left the crowd craving for more. Together, Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton left a lasting mark, celebrating the blues and leaving everyone in awe of their extraordinary talents.
Samantha Fish at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23
Next up was Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, a young prodigy who has been making waves in the blues world. Despite his age, Ingram’s guitar playing showcased a depth of skill and emotional maturity. His soulful vocals and lightning-fast fretwork on “She Calls Me Kingfish” drew thunderous applause from the crowd, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with. The fiery energy continued with the blues-infused “Midnight Heat,” showcasing Kingfish’s impressive command over his instrument. Closing his set with the powerful “Long Distance Woman,” Kingfish left a lasting impression, proving himself as a true blues artist to watch out for.
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Buddy Guy emerged with his iconic Fender Stratocaster in hand. The crowd erupted with thunderous applause and cheers as he launched into his set, effortlessly transitioning between blistering guitar solos and heartfelt vocals. Backed by his incredibly talented Damn Right Blues Band, they created a mesmerizing atmosphere of blues and rock that resonated throughout the park. The audience was treated to a repertoire of his greatest hits, including “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues,” “Skin Deep,” and Muddy Waters “Hoochie Coochie Man.” Each song was met with resounding applause, highlighting the timeless appeal of his music.
Buddy Guy at SummerStage Central Park 6.18.23
But the surprises didn’t end there. Blues icon Bobby Rush and his son joined Buddy Guy on stage for a rendition of “Chicken Heads.” The trio brought a new dynamic to the performance, seamlessly blending their styles and creating a magical musical synergy. To conclude the evening, all the artists gathered on stage for an impromptu jam session. The stage was alive with energy as each artist took turns exchanging riffs, trading solos, and sharing the spotlight.
As Buddy Guy bids farewell to the stage, his music will continue to inspire generations to come. His virtuosity, passion, and undeniable talent have left an indelible mark on the blues genre.
Plattsburgh Blues and Jazz will host some of the biggest and most recognizable voices in blues this summer. It all starts on June 17 when Dawn Tyler Watson and Curtis Salgado visit downtown-venue Retro Live. Then, on July 7, Grammy-nominated blues and funk artist Sugaray Rayford will perform at The Strand Center for the Arts.
Both events are put on by Plattsburgh Blues and Jazz (PB&J), a non-profit organization that looks to promote and cultivate the arts and music scene in the Plattsburgh area. PB&J has brought the likes of Kenny Neal, Southern Avenue, John Nemeth, and Vanessa Collier to shores of Lake Champlain.
Dawn Tyler Watson
Dawn Tyler Watson is a Canadian Jazz and Blues artist that has been making music since the early 2000s. Through her career she’s captivated audiences with her energetic and passionate onstage performances. Her 2019 project titled Mad Love earned a Juno Award for Best Blues Album. She’s also picked up six Maple Blues Awards and a BMA nomination for Best Vocalist. Watson brings an impressive vocal range and hints of R&B to her music to create a truly unique and powerful sound.
Curtis Salgado, Carlos Santana and Buddy Guy
Curtis Salgado
Salgado has established himself as one of the most notable and respected blues musicians in the world. Salgado has featured in several influential and important blues groups including The Nighthawks, The Robert Cray Band, and Roomful of Blues. He has won multiple awards including Soul/Blues Album of the Year at the 2019 Blues Music Awards for his album “Damage Control”. Salgado was also nominated for a Grammy in 2018 for Best Traditional Blues Album.
Sugaray Rayford
Sugaray Rayford is an American blues artist who has found the perfect balance between jazz, soul, funk, R&B, and of course blues. Rayford began singing in his local church at the age of 7, by 15 he was already the lead singer of San Diego band. His project Somebody Save Me was nominated for a Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album. He’s also won three Blues Music Awards, including B.B. King Entertainer of the Year.
The improvisatory Rust Dust, also known as Jason Stutts, has announced the release of his sophomore Album, Twere But It Were So Simple via Omad Records. On March 10, the new album was celebrated with a CD release party at The Museum of Folk Art in NYC.
Some musicians require precision for the success of their projects, while others take a supple approach. Rust Dust belongs to the latter group, allowing whatever sounds, words, energy, and emotions to manifest into songs. According to Dust, “I don’t typically sit down to write a song. Sometimes I’m lucky enough to recognize them when they appear.” This process can occur for minutes or over the course of years.
Twere But It Were So Simple is a spacious-sounding LP that was recorded live in a ramshackle Brooklyn brownstone. The vivacious instrumental “Helter Fukov Awakens” segues into improbable guitar pop, with songs such as “All-Lit-Up-With-Nowhere-To-Go” and “UFO.” Additionally, songs like “Ice Queen Sandwich” and “Speaking In Tongues” vibe together like Robyn Hitchcock cornering Townes Van Zandt at a buoyant, boozy rent party. Songs such as “Snakes In My Pockets”, “A Rope Around My Neck” and “Sky,” a haunting, heartbreaking collaboration with the award winning John DeNicola took a somber turn.
Fans can expect to enjoy a harmonious country and a blues roots melody when listening to Rust Dust’s new album. To match his vintage aesthetic, Dust used an old Yamaha nylon and a Godin Multiac which is a modern nylon-string electric designed to mimic an acoustic when plugged to craft his sound.
A mutual appreciation for old gear initially brought Stutts and DeNicola together. The two helmed the first Rust Dust record known as Diviners and Shivs in DeNicola’s Upstate New York studio. His newest album can be featured here.
The illustrious guitarist, Tab Benoit announced his Winter/Spring 2023 Tour at the Hangar Theatre in Ithaca. Enjoy songwriter, producer and guitarist, JD Simo open for Benoit on February 19th.
The Chicago born Benoit has produced with artists such as Jack White, Tommy Emmanuel, Luther Dickinson, Dave Cobb and Blackberry Smoke. Additionally, Simo’s latest album, Mind Control was released in 2021.
Louisiana Bayou blues guitarist Tab Benoit is renowned for his passionate environmental activism. Benoit is a powerhouse that you won’t want to miss. He is treasured for his distinctive guitar tone and fiery playing. In 2020, Benoit was inducted into the Louisiana Folklife Center Hall of Master Folk Artists. In a recent review of Tab Benoit’s show in Salem, Blues Rock Revue reported, “The final song of the night was “Night Train” from 2005’s Fever on the Bayou which Benoit jammed on for over ten minutes with explosive guitar licks. It was a bring down the house conclusion”
You also might’ve seen him in the documentary Hurricane on the Bayou. The documentary describes the effects of Hurricane Katrina, calls to protect and restore the Wetlands, and produced a CD to help restore the state’s Coastal Wetlands. Benoit has also been featured in the Sony Picture Classics 2022 movie JazzFest: A New Orleans Story.
“From his set opening “Why Are People Like That” to his encore “Medicine”, Benoit had the delighted crowd swinging, singing, and swaying. Benoit’s set was the perfect culmination of three fabulous days of extraordinary music at an extraordinary venue in an idyllic location”
