NYS Music 2023

Tag: manhattan

  • Raphael Saadiq And Tony! Toni! Toné! Stop At Radio City On New Tour

    Award-winning artist, writer, composer, and producer Raphael Saadiq recently revealed that he and Tony! Toni! Toné! would be returning to the Radio City Music Hall. The show is part of their new tour “Just Me & You”, which stops in New York on September 30.

    Raphael Saadiq Tony! Toni! Toné

    The Tony’s are known for being one of the most influential and successful R&B groups of all time. Composed of brothers Raphael Saadiq and D’wayne Wiggins and their cousin Timothy Christian Riley, the Tonys have been making music since 1986. 

    The group found massive success early on in their career with the album Who?, which landed on Billboard’s “Top Pop Albums” chart. Four songs off of the album reached the R&B Top 10, including the hit “Little Walter”. Their biggest success would come in the form of their second project, The Revival. The album spawned several hits, the most notable being “Feels Good” which made its way into the Top 10 of the “Hot 100”. 

    The group began to explore their own individual pursuits after their final album House Of Music in 1996. Saadiq became a much sought after producer and writer, helping to create hit songs for the likes of D’Angelo and The Roots. He also released several of his own albums, including Instant Vintage and Ray Ray. 

    Tony! Toni! Toné! are set to perform some of the biggest and most monumental songs. The tour will also feature some of Saadiq’s most popular work, including some of the tracks he helped to make for Daniel Caesar, Brent Faiyaz, and Beyonce. Click here for more details and tickets.

    Raphael Saadiq And Tony! Toni! Toné Tour Schedule

    Thu September 21 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall

    Fri September 22 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium

    Sun September 24 – Washington, DC – The Theater at MGM National Harbor

    Tue September 26 – Baltimore, MD – Lyric Opera House

    Thu September 28 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met

    Sat September 30 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall

    Sun October 1 – Durham, NC – Durham Performing Arts Center

    Thu October 5 – Boston, MA – Orpheum Theatre

    Sun October 8 – Cleveland, OH – State Theatre

    Tue October 10 – Louisville, KY – Louisville Palace

    Wed October 11 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium

    Thu October 12 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Theatre

    Fri October 13 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre

    Thu October 19 – Greensboro, NC – Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

    Fri October 20 – Columbia, SC – The Township Auditorium

    Sat October 21 – Jacksonville, FL – Moran Theater

    Sun October 22 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre

    Thu October 26 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre 

    Fri October 27 – New Orleans, LA – Orpheum Theatre 

    Sat October 28 – Dallas, TX – Music Hall at Fair Park

    Sun October 29 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

    Fri November 10 – Las Vegas, NV – Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort

    Sat November 11 – Los Angeles, CA – YouTube Theater

    Mon November 14 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre

    Fri November 17 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic

  • In Focus: Hayley Kiyoko brings “The Panorama Tour” to Irving Plaza, with Allison Ponthier

    On May 31st, Hayley Kiyoko took over Irving Plaza in the heart of NYC, igniting a firestorm of excitement and pure musical magic. This show was incredible and energetic as she played Irving Plaza for the second day in a row on “The Panorama Tour”; delivering one breathtaking performance after another.

    To make the night even more unforgettable, the incredibly talented Allison Ponthier opened her the night, adding an extra layer of brilliance to an already sensational evening. With Irving Plaza’s intimate setting, the energy in the room was palpable as fans eagerly awaited a night they knew would leave a lasting impact on their hearts and souls.

    Allison Ponthier, the mesmerizing singer-songwriter hailing from Texas, has been making waves in the music scene with her unique sound and captivating storytelling. In a serendipitous turn of events, Ponthier’s journey took a remarkable leap forward when she shared her heartfelt song “Harshest Critic” on social media platforms, catching the attention of listeners around the world. Her raw vulnerability and haunting melodies struck a chord with audiences, leading to a growing fanbase and critical acclaim.

    With her debut EP Faking My Own Death released in 2021, Ponthier showcased her introspective lyrics and ethereal vocals, solidifying her place as an artist to watch. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the human condition, Allison Ponthier’s evocative music resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of those who listen.

    Allison Ponthier Setlist: Autopilot, Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Hardcore, Crash Test Dummy, Cowboy, Faking My Own Death, I Lied, Character Development

    Hayley Kiyoko

    Hayley Kiyoko, the charismatic 28-year-old artist hailing from California, has been making waves in the music industry with her unwavering talent and unapologetic authenticity. In an unanticipated but welcomed turn of events, Kiyoko’s journey took a remarkable pivot from acting when she released her breakthrough single “Girls Like Girls” in 2015. The empowering anthem not only resonated deeply with audiences but also caught the attention of major influencers in the industry.

    Garnering a devoted following, Kiyoko continued to captivate hearts with her distinct sound and emphasis on sharing queer stories. With each subsequent release, including her debut album Expectations in 2018, Kiyoko solidified her position as a force to be reckoned with. Embracing her role as an LGBTQ+ icon and advocate, she fearlessly uses her platform to champion self-acceptance and love. Hayley Kiyoko’s undeniable talent, combined with her unwavering dedication to authentic expression, has firmly established her as a rising star, destined to leave an indelible mark on the music scene.

    Kiyoko’s electrifying performance left the audience in a state of pure euphoria. From the moment she took the stage and launched into the opening chords of “Found My Friends,” the crowd was swept up in a whirlwind of energy and emotion. Kiyoko’s magnetic presence and infectious enthusiasm had everyone dancing and singing along, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. 

    In a surprise moment, Kiyoko treated the crowd to a nostalgic rendition of “Determinate,” a throwback to her performance as a main character in the Disney Channel Original Movie, Lemonade Mouth, which had the entire audience belting out the chorus. As a dedicated fan named Jennifer was called out, Kiyoko dedicated a heartfelt rendition of “Pretty Girl” to her, further solidifying the connection she has with her dedicated fanbase.

    As the familiar notes of “Girls Like Girls” rang out, the energy reached its peak, with the crowd erupting in a chorus of voices, an amazing start to Pride month, and affirming Kiyoko’s impact as an LGBTQ+ icon. The introspective and empowering “Gravel to Tempo” followed, further solidifying Kiyoko’s message of self-acceptance and authenticity.

    The night drew to a close with the poignant “Well…” and the empowering anthem “For the Girls,” leaving the audience with a sense of empowerment and unity. However, the crowd’s fervent cheers and applause brought Kiyoko back for an unforgettable encore, culminating in the breathtaking “Panorama.” As the final notes echoed through the venue, there was a collective understanding that this was a performance that would be etched in their memories forever.

    Hayley Kiyoko’s show at Irving Plaza was a masterclass in connecting with an audience and creating an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and celebration.

    Hayley Kiyoko

    In terms of upcoming shows, “The Panorama Tour” has come to a close, but updates for any future Hayley Kiyoko shows can be found on socials, and her website. The same goes for Allison Ponthier, and you can find her socials and website linked here.

    Hayley Kiyoko

    Hayley Kiyoko Setlist: found my friends, luna, sugar at the bottom, What I Need, underground, deep in the woods, Greenlight, flicker start, Curious, Determinate [Lemonade Mouth song], Pretty Girl (Dedicated to Jennifer, fan from crowd), forever, Sleepover, demons, Girls Like Girls, Gravel to Tempo, Hungry Heart [Steve Aoki, Galantis feat. Hayley Kiyoko], well…, for the girls, panorama

  • Janelle Monáe to Visit Radio City And Kings Theatre

    Janelle Monáe recently announced her “Age of Pleasure Tour”, which will feature two stops in the Empire State. The Grammy-nominated artist will visit the iconic Radio City Music Hall and Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. The 26-city tour kicks off on August 30 in Seattle at the WAMU Theater. 

    The tour coincides with Monáe’s long-awaited fourth studio album The Age of Pleasure which is slated to drop on June 9. Monáe released her critically acclaimed concept album Dirty Internet more than four years ago. The project earned the artist two Grammy nominations including one for “Album of the Year”, it also peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200. 

    Since her last album Monáe has explored writing and acting, appearing in the films Harriet and Glass Onion, she also received praise for her role in the series We the People. Earlier this May Monáe dropped the single “Lipstick Lover” to go along with her upcoming album. 

    Presale tickets started on June 1, while on-sale tickets are set to be released on Wednesday, June 6. Tickets and more information can be found here. 

    Janelle Monae ‘Age of Pleasure’ Tour Dates 

    Wed Aug 30 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater

    Thu Aug 31 – Vancouver, BC – UBC – Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

    Sat Sep 02 – Portland, OR  – RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater

    Wed Sep 06 –Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex

    Thu Sep 07 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre

    Sat Sep 09 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre 

    Mon Sep 11 – Minneapolis, MN – Armory

    Wed Sep 13 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre

    Thu Sep 14 – Chicago, IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

    Sun Sep 17 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

    Mon Sep 18 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met

    Wed Sep 20 – Montreal, QB – Mtelus

    Thu Sep 21 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall 

    Sun Sep 24 – Washington, DC  – The Anthem*

    Tue Sep 26 – New York City, NY – Radio City Music Hall

    Thu Sep 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre 

    Mon Oct 02 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre 

    Tue Oct 03 – Nashville, TN  – Ryman Auditorium

    Wed Oct 04 – Birmingham, AL  – Avondale Brewing Company

    Fri Oct 06 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre Atlanta

    Mon Oct 09 – Dallas, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

    Tue Oct 10 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center 

    Wed Oct 11 – Austin, TX – Moody Amphitheater

    Sun Oct 15 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

    Tue Oct 17 – San Francisco, CA – Bill Graham Civic Auditorium

    Wed Oct 18 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater

  • 2023 Drama Desk Award Winners Revealed

    The winners for the 67th Annual Drama Desk Awards have been announced. The Drama Desk Awards are recognized as being the only major NYC theater award show that puts Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway productions in the same categories. This year it was all about Some Like it Hot and Life of Pi, with each coming out on top in over three categories.

    Drama Desk Awards

    Awards are voted on and bestowed by critics, journalists, editors, and publishers covering theater. The Drama Desk Awards honor all aspects of New York’s professional theater.

    The Drama Desk was founded in 1949 and began presenting its awards in 1955. The organization was originally created to explore pivotal issues in the theater and to bring together critics and writers in an organization to support the development of theater in New York.

    broadway reopen

    This year the Drama Desk Awards will take place at Sardi’s Restaurant in Manhattan on June 6th from 3:00 – 6:00pm. Tony and Emmy Award winner Mandy Patinkin and 2-time Obie Award winner Kathryn Grody will host the ceremony. More details about the event and awards can be found here.

    List of Winners

    Outstanding Play

    Leopoldstadt, by Tom Stoppard

    Outstanding Musical

    Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Revival of a Play

    The Piano Lesson

    Outstanding Revival of a Musical

    Parade

    Outstanding Lead Performance in a Play

    Jessica Chastain, A Doll’s House & Sean Hayes, Good Night, Oscar

    Outstanding Lead Performance in a Musical

    Annaleigh Ashford, Sweeney Todd & J. Harrison Ghee, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Featured Performance in a Play

    Miriam Silverman, The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, Brooklyn Academy of Music & Brandon Uranowitz, Leopoldstadt

    Outstanding Featured Performance in a Musical

    Kevin Del Aguila, Some Like it Hot & Alex Newell, Shucked

    Outstanding Direction of a Play

    Max Webster, Life of Pi

    Outstanding Direction of a Musical

    Thomas Kail, Sweeney Todd

    Outstanding Choreography

    Casey Nicholaw, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Music

    Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, Shucked

    Outstanding Lyrics

    Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Book of a Musical

    Matthew López and Amber Ruffin, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Orchestrations

    Charlie Rosen and Bryan Carter, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Music in a Play

    Suzan-Lori Parks, Plays for the Plague Year, The Public Theater

    Outstanding Scenic Design of a Play

    Tim Hatley, Life of Pi

    Outstanding Scenic Design of a Musical

    Beowulf Boritt, New York, New York

    Outstanding Costume Design of a Play

    Emilio Sosa, Ain’t No Mo’

    Outstanding Costume Design of a Musical

    Gregg Barnes, Some Like it Hot

    Outstanding Lighting Design of a Play

    Natasha Chivers and Willie Williams (video), Prima Facie

    Outstanding Lighting Design of a Musical

    Natasha Katz, Sweeney Todd

    Outstanding Projection and Video Design 

    Andrzej Goulding, Life of Pi

    Outstanding Sound Design of a Play

    Ben & Max Ringham, A Doll’s House

    Outstanding Sound Design of a Musical

    Scott Lehrer and Alex Neumann, Into the Woods

    Outstanding Wig and Hair

    Mia M. Neal, Ain’t No Mo’

    Outstanding Solo Performance

    Jodie Comer, Prima Facie

    Unique Theatrical Experience

    Peter Pan Goes Wrong

    Outstanding Fight Choreography

    B.H. Barry, Camelot

    Outstanding Adaptation

    A Doll’s House, by Amy Herzog

    Outstanding Puppetry

    Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, Life of Pi

    Special Awards: 

    Harold Prince Lifetime Achievement Award

    Stephen McKinley Henderson has been bringing in-depth, gripping portrayals of memorable characters to the stage for over 40 years. With his return to Broadway this season as Pops in Between Riverside and Crazy, which was nominated in 2015, this year’s Harold Prince Lifetime Achievement Award marks Henderson’s role in this powerful production as a celebration of his brilliant career.

    Ensemble Award

    The cast of Soho Rep’s Public Obscenities – Tashnuva Anan, Abrar Haque, Golam Sarwar Harun, Gargi Mukherjee, NaFis, Jakeem Dante Powell, and Debashis Roy Chowdhury – embodied the transnational world of Shayok Misha Chowdhury’s bilingual play with memorable authenticity, remarkable specificity, and extraordinary warmth.

    Sam Norkin Off-Broadway Award

    From his standout performance in american (tele)visions, to writing and performing the autobiographical Dark Disabled Stories, Ryan J. Haddad’s work this season has expanded on and interrogated what the idea of “accessibility” really means. Whether riding a shopping cart like a throne, or relating his experiences on a “gay, pink bus,” Haddad shared with audiences an unabashed queer fabulosity that was both unforgettable and deeply human.

  • An Evening with John Legend: R&B Star Announces Pair of November Beacon Theatre Performances

    Multi-platinum, R&B icon John Legend will be bringing his talents to New York’s historic Beacon Theatre for a pair of live, mid-week performances dubbed, “An Evening With John Legend.” Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday on November 7 and 8, this special solo performance will feature intimate reimagining’s of Legend’s greatest hits.

    John Legend will be bringing his talents to the Beacon Theatre

    Since the release of his debut in 2004, John Legend has delivered some of music’s most soul-touching records and moments. His 2013 single “All of Me,” hit number 1 on the Billboard charts and the accompanying music video — featuring his wife Chrissy Teigen — has over 2 Billion views on Youtube. Other crowd pleasers will include his Grammy-nominated records “Ordinary People,” from his debut album Get Lifted, and “Tonight.” The latter which featured as the lead single from the soundtrack to the 2012 romantic-comedy film Think Like a Man.

    Together with the medley of chart-topping hits, An Evening With John Legend will also include selections from his latest album Legend recently released via Republic Records. Not to mention, unexpected stories from the legendary musician’s life and career.

    Ticket sales will begin with an artist presale on Wednesday, May 17 at 10 a.m. until Thursday, May 18 at 10 p.m. before the general on-sale on Friday, May 19 at 10 a.m. at LiveNation.com. 

  • Goth Babe Sends New York City Into Summer as “The Lola Tour” Stops At Pier 17

    On Friday, May 5, Goth Babe’s performance at Pier 17 catapulted New York City into summer. On the East River below the FiDi skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge-facing venue hosted Goth Babe’s “The Lola Tour” with Yoke Lore. The outdoor venue could not defend against the on and off rain showers, but the risk of weather was made worth it when sunset rolled around.

    The sky turned into something of pink brilliance, and a rainbow casted over the river. The colorful streak of spring arched over the stage to turn the evening into the ultimate setting for Goth Babe’s sound – light, natural, and vibrant.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The crowd spilled onto the Pier 17 rooftop hours before Goth Babe’s show to see the opener, Yoke Lore. A renowned artist in the alternative/indie realm, singer Adrian Galvin attracted fans of his own and collected some new ones as he gave a dynamic performance. He spun around on stage in between verses and communed with the audience kindly. Yoke Lore’s sound strikes a comforting chord in the musical soul. With only raw vocals, percussion, and a banjo to seal his sound, he successfully composes a unique warmth with his music.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd
    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The sun continued to set over the enthusiastic crowd, and an unbelievable flower moon took its spot in the sky. Its massivity attracted a volley of OOOs and AAAhhhs as everyone waited eagerly for the party to start. Eventually the twin screens on either side of the stage darkened, and blues and whites flashed in lengthy strobes over the crowd. The indie-electronic vocalist, Griffin Washburn, and his two touring bandmates on percussion, keys, and strings made their way onto stage. Washburn seemed to talk to himself in happy disbelief as a response to seeing Pier 17 crowd, “This is f*cking nuts! So cool! This is insane, it’s going to be awesome.”

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Griffin Washburn is a known nomad. He lives in and out of sailboats and tiny homes in the mountains of Washington, hence his new single “Alone in the Mountains.” His free-spirit is a light in the music industry, for he cares more about the connections and differences he can make with his music rather than his profits and status. The day of the show, he posted on his instagram story to invite fans to participate in a pre-show run club. Connecting with his fans who he sees as friends has been a tour priority. His kind and mellow persona shines through his music and could be felt throughout the show.

    After getting the crowd warmed up with some songs, he asked for a volunteer to crowd surf. Once a member of the audience was elected, the stage crew brought out a watermelon slice pool-floatie. The fan was released to surf the hands of her fellow Goth Babe listeners. Griffin sent her off with a wave, “Be kind to her, and be safe with her!” She totally rocked the role, fist-bumping and belting song lyrics in a spell of pure joy.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Goth Babe established a friendly community from the start. He encouraged the crowd to participate in dance-offs and sing-alongs, insisting “you’re all not too old for sing-alongs!” His stage presence consisted of audible yipping, head-banging, and epiphanic gratitude. It was impossible not to dance. The music seemed to lift the crowd into movement.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Electronic music gets wrapped with the stigma of being synthetic and repetitive. Goth Babe’s sound strongly defies this tired narrative. The blend of guitar strings, light chimes, and seemingly element-inspired melodies composes a natural almost healing sound. Combined with relatable and celebratory human lyrics, Goth Babe has created something unique and informative of a lifestyle – unbound and transient.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Towards the end of the show, Griffin spun around to take in the glory of New York City. The skyline lights shimmered on the water, and the traffic on the bridge strung red ribbons of light across the storm clouded sky. He encouraged everyone to introduce themselves to a stranger and tell them why they live in New York City, and why they love it so much. A minute from the show was sacrificed to organic conversation. The crowd seemed more tightly knit for the remainder of the show.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Griffin and his fellow performers put on silly hats for the remainder of the show. He adorned a shark hat, the percussionist wore a disco helmet, and the keys player wore a cow-print cowboy hat. The last few songs rolled by too easily. Griffin conducted the gold-star concert move of commanding the crowd to get really low and jump up on the beat. He sang a crowd favorite, and  what he deemed his favorite song, “Taking Over The Sun.” The crowd was electric.

    “We try to make this more than a normal concert you’d come to for an hour. We want to make you a part of something and leave feeling better than you came!” That they did. When the show came to a close, the party did not. Fans poured out from Pier 17 and continued to dance and sing in the Manhattan streets. Goth Babe set the summer tone for New York City.

  • A Sold Out Show at Irving Plaza for Valley on “Lost in Translation Tour”

    On Friday, April 28th, the line of eager Valley fans spilled from the doors of Irving Plaza to wrap around the block. Despite the misting rain, the energy pulsing in the camped-out line was warm.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    On their “Lost In Translation Tour,” Valley sold out their New York City show. As the venue filled, it became increasingly undeniable that Valley deserved to be at a larger venue. They had performed at the lovely Irving Plaza a year prior, and since then it was clear they’ve collected a larger fanbase.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The opener for Valley , Aidan Bisset, kicked off the night with his pop-grunge music. The crowd immediately received Bisset’s stage presence and relatable lyrics. He sang of toxic romances, new love, and break-ups. With two electric guitars and a drum set, he commanded a fast rhythm and infectious persona of youthful fun and passionate intensity. Bisset performed some of his hits, three unreleased songs, and even took on the vocally renowned cover, Kings of Leon’s, “Sex On Fire.” Bisset engaged with the crowd, taking their BeReals, getting level to level with them to chat, and wooing over new fans. Before leaving the stage, he graciously thanked Valley for having him on their tour.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The set change was fascinating. Usually, microphones are changed and some of the instruments are shifted around. Valley’s upcoming set brought on multiple box-screen televisions to be stacked on top of each other, an ambiguous rectangular frame of notable size with drapes hanging over it, and countless additional lights. Valley’s pre-show setlist had the crowd belting familiar songs in each other’s embrace. Fog began to roll down from the balcony level and off the stage. This grabbed hold of the crowd’s attention. When the lights suddenly shut off and Irving was pitch black, the curious murmur rolled into an uproar of excitement.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The TVs stacked on top of each other switched on. Their screens matched the static sound emanating overhead. Flashes of the band members’ faces and old television clips emerged sporadically through the static. The lights slowly faded from a hint of color to a bright broadcast of a Valley inspired color palette. Bass vibrated the floor, and the crowd stood in awe.

    Eventually the band ran onto the stage. Drummer, Karah James, took her throne behind the drums. Guitarist, Michael Brandolino, and bassist, Alex Dimauro ran to their instruments. They played an adrenaline inducing intro for their lead singer, Rob Laska. Laska ran onto the stage, with an electric guitar slung around his shoulders. The crowd’s response was deafening.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd
    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Valley opened with one of their most popular songs, “There’s Still A Light In The House.” The song is a tribute to love and the endless possibilities of finding one’s self in New York City. The lyric on the bridge that goes Is it New York? Or Heaven? I can’t think twice now, was sung proudly by the New York City crowd. Laska, infatuated with the crowd’s energy, encouraged their singing. The audience sang back to the band with one collective voice that shared an affinity for their conversational lyrics.

    As the show went on, the performance became more personal. Laska jumped into the pit that separated him from the crowd to sing with some fans. In between songs, he conversed and told stories about band memories in New York City. Laska reminisced, “New York City is special to us, we wrote our first record in this damn city! We’ll be coming back forever.” This led to Valley announcement of their new record Lost In Translation, set to release on June 23rd.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The draped frame that was brought onto the stage during set transitions became a crucial filament of the show. Over half way through the concert, the TVs turned back on and the lights dimmed. Laska approached the frame and tore the drape off to reveal a reflective mirror surface with strobe lights hanging from it. A phone began to ring, and Laska tugged a landline phone from the structure. He sang one of their hits, “A Phone Call In Amsterdam,” into the phone. The entire show was an artistic performance, rather than a band just performing on stage. The appreciation for the theatrics and the attention to detail resembled The 1975’s “At Their Very Best Tour.”

    As Valley trailed towards the end of their setlist, Laska emphasized his gratitude for everyone choosing to be at their show. “There’s a lot of cool shit going on in New York City on a Friday night, so I’m happy we all found each other in this vortex.” Underneath the twirling Irving disco ball, the fans really unified in their fandom. He invited everyone to join them in a state of appreciative awareness for the last couple of songs. Without a clear goodbye, Valley left the stage. The crowd was not going to leave without an encore.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Heads turned in a whiplash from the front of the stage to the back of the venue. A murmur of eager confusion echoed throughout the venue. Suddenly, a spotlight shone on the back of the crowd. Laska began to make his way through the crowd towards the stage, singing “Paper Cup (sorry for myself).” The audience parted like the red sea for him to make his way towards the front of the crowd, where he sang for the remainder of the song. The rest of the band took to the stage, and Laska joined them to finish out their set with their popular song, “hiccup.”

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The encore applause was impressive. The sounds of cheers and screams took over Laska’s volume as he thanked the crowd. All the band members joined him at center stage to take their hard-earned bow. Karah James tossed her drumsticks, kisses were blown, and hands clasped in praise for New York City. Laska closed out the night with a sweet send off,  “Take care of each  other, love one another, and we’ll see you very soon!”

    Photo gallery by Emma Dowd

  • A New York City Night with Fruit Bats at Webster Hall

    On Thursday, April 20th the Fruit Bats returned to New York City, having not played on the island of Manhattan in three years. The East Village’s beloved Webster Hall slowly filled with an eclectic crowd.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    People of all ages mingled and spoke about their relationships to the band, as they sipped wine and other elixirs. The energy was timid and sweet, emulating the same experience the Fruit Bats create with their sound.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    Hums of conversation and the movement on the floor fell to a still hush when the openers, H.C. McEntire took to the stage. The lights glowed golden and a light fog rolled onto the crowd, as the lead singer transitioned the night into an experience. Slowly, each instrument organically introduced itself into the song. Multiple guitars, a bass guitar, and a percussion set melded together to create a culmination of bluegrass and folk. The audience was entranced as they drank in the band’s filling guitar riffs, and weighty vocals.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    When H.C. McEntire humbly exited the stage, they were rewarded with hoot and holler applause. After a half an hour set change, the Fruit Bats made their way onto stage. Each band member made themselves comfortable behind their instruments. The keyboardist, Frank LoCastro, even poured himself a tall glass of red wine. Multi-instrumentalist Josh Mease, bassist David Dawda, and drummer Josh Adams situated themselves as their lead singer, Eric Johnson, approached the mic. He greeted New York City warmly, expressing his gratitude for having returned to “the big island.”

    The show commenced with Johnson’s raw voice dueting with the melody pulled by the guitar. The first lyric to be sung was from their song, “The Pet Parade”: Hello from me to all you out there. The crowd waved back to Johnson, their swaying hands casted a moving pattern of shadows across the notorious Webster velvet drapes that frame the stage.

    The Fruit Bats’ sound felt like a location. It held a midwestern kindness that could not be missed, as they performed songs tributing their roots in Chicago, Illinois. Though, the music was transient. As Johnson told stories through his lyrics, the audience was brought along with him to his muses. The journey was a long one, given that the setlist expanded over a vast culmination of records dating back to 1997.

    Photograph by Emma Dowd
    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The band performed songs from Johnson’s early career all through their newest record, “A River Running To Your Heart,” that was released last week. The record’s first debut to the world happened in New York City. Johnson asked if the crowd minded if they played something new. The audience welcomed the proposition with open arms and open minds, as they listened to the fresh record. He sang of “proverbial shame,” “chosen family,” and the thread of most albums “love.”

    Photograph by Emma Dowd

    The show concluded peacefully, the audience fulfilled and the Fruit Bats doused in gratification. Claps and utters of “thank you’s” vibrated in the crowd. Their goodbye was swift as they stilled their instruments and waved to their listeners as they made their way backstage. The stage emptied and the lights came on, but the crowd stayed awhile. Ushered to the bar, they stayed carrying on the story of the music they just heard.

  • JAWNY Electrifies New York City’s Bowery Ballroom

    On Friday March 31st, lo-fi pop rocker JAWNY took over Manhattan’s infamous Bowery Ballroom. JAWNY and his opener Wallice had performed their first night in New York City at Brooklyn’s Baby’s Alright just a couple nights before, but they expressed their bottled excitement they withheld for the ballroom. Just over half way through their North American tour, the JAWNY and his crew still had lots of energy to rock with.

    Photograph by Sophie Gurwitz

    The opening act, Wallice, put on a full indie-rock concert of her own. The crowd was immediately responsive to her sound, as they sang all her lyrics right back to her. Her stage presence was inviting, and commanded a sort of confidence most artists aim to possess. The Bowery Ballroom show was Wallice’s last with JAWNY, because as he revealed later in his set, she will be supporting The 1975 on their Australian leg of tour set to start on April 8th. She kicked off JAWNY’s North American Tour at the start of March, and concluded her contribution with an electric bang.

    When Wallice bid her farewells, the floor of the ballroom volumized tight with fans. Conversation was buzzing under the fluorescent blue lights, and the clock ticked down meticulously to JAWNY’s set. Finally, the lights dimmed and the universal music-listener’s hype song “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers took over the speakers. The conversational buzz erupted into an animated sing along. When the first chorus fell into silence, the crowd jumped and called out for JAWNY.

    Photograph by Sophie Gurwitz

    The instrumental intro mimicked the “Twin Peaks Theme” song. The eerie guitar riff turned hype as it successfully revved up the crowd. On the stage was a tall mannequin with a long-haired platinum wig adorned in a suit to mimic JAWNY’s presentation, a green electric guitar, a bass, and a drumset. Out came JAWNY’s supporting band members, Gambee on the bass and Curtis Kelley on the  drums, and they took to their instruments. They played their own welcoming intro for JAWNY before he ran onto the stage, pumping his arms to elicit screams from the crowd. He wanted noise, and unsurpassable volume is what he got.

    It seemed as though the crowd’s volume exceeded Bowery’s usual noise capacity. As the strobe lights cascaded onto the crowd and the percussion pounded against the venue’s foundation, the building’s body began to shake. Before singing his first song, JAWNY affirmed into the mic, “It feels good to be home in New York City baby.”

    Photograph by Sophie Gurwitz

    He dove into his setlist with one of his most popular songs “strawberry chainsaw.” The song’s lyrics preached the paradoxical sweet violence of young love, as did many of the songs on his setlist. JAWNY’s lyrics paid ode to the blissful oblivion of being young and the tumultuous and continuous transition into the awareness that’s only awarded to a person by time. His rocker presence invoked a surge of movement in the audience. As he jumped and kicked around on stage while shredding his guitar, members of the crowd bounced on and off of each other.

    In between songs, he paused to tell a story he “hasn’t told on tour yet.” He reminisced on a Whitney concert he saw at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, another renowned New York City venue, in 2016. He told his girlfriend at the time that he was going to sell out a venue like this. She and his friends laughed at him, because he had never put out a song. The crowd also collectively laughed in response, but he interjected and declared his dreams fruition, “But you all made that dream come true. I just sold out two nights in New York City!”

    Photograph by Sophie Gurwitz

    His music held such an individual sound, but shared the affectivity of artists like Twenty-One Pilots, COIN, Still Woozy, and Peach Pit. This promised a night of dancing and scream-singing various fan-favorite lyrics. JAWNY revealed that the Bowery Ballroom show was going to have “the longest set on tour.” He went on to play new and old songs, like his aged song “4Tounce,” that weren’t usually on his setlist.

    Photograph by Sophie Gurwitz

    As the night flowed on, JAWNY expressed his gratitude for New York City. “Y’all are f*ckin’ fun,” he praised. Sadly, the neon lights had to fade and the high energy had boiled down to a steaming simmer. When JAWNY made his final departure and the ballroom lights turned on signaling the crowd’s exit, there was a brief moment of the surreal. Music was still playing in everyone’s ears and the lights danced behind their eyes. Everyone stood still.

    Photographs by Sophie Gurwitz

  • In Focus: Steve Aoki Cakes the Crowd at Terminal 5

    2x-Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Steve Aoki brought the heat to the stage during his electrifying performance on the HiROQUEST: Genesis Tour at Terminal 5 on March 17. With an explosive mix of EDM bangers, stunning visual effects, and his signature cake-throwing antics, Aoki had the crowd jumping and dancing non-stop all night long. Fans left the show with unforgettable memories and eagerly anticipating his next performance.

    Steve Aoki is a world-renowned DJ, producer, and entrepreneur, known for his energetic live shows and collaborations with top musicians such as BTS, Kid Cudi, and Linkin Park. Born in Miami and raised in California, Aoki began his music career in 1996 in college by producing DIY records and running underground concerts out of his room at UC Santa Barbra, and has since released multiple studio albums and produced countless chart-topping tracks. He is also the founder of the record label Dim Mak Records and has expanded his brand into fashion, food, and philanthropy. Aoki’s most recent release is fiery new single “New York” with multi-platinum DJ and producer Regard, and featuring alt-pop artist mazie. Together on “New York,” the upbeat dance club jam joins mazie’s dreamlike, twisted musical tendencies through a seamless combination of Regard’s unmistakable production and Aoki’s high-powered creativity for a song that arrives just in time to become the pop anthem to kick off the new year.

    The first opener, NYC based DJ Callie Reiff is a force to be reckoned with in the electronic dance music scene. A rising star since her early teens, she’s been smashing stages with her high-octane sets and bold beats. Armed with a fearless attitude and an infectious energy, Callie has been pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers, redefining what it means to be a woman in EDM. With an impressive list of collaborations under her belt, including Diplo, Sofi Tukker, and Borgore, Callie’s sound is a dynamic fusion of genres, blending elements of trap, bass, and techno to create a sound that is uniquely hers. From playing major festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival and Ultra Music Festival to headlining her own shows, Callie Reiff is on a meteoric rise and shows no signs of slowing down.

    Following Callie Reiff was Juuku; a rising star in the world of electronic music, known for his genre-bending sound and emotionally charged productions. With a background in classical piano and guitar, this mysterious producer has been captivating audiences with his unique blend of future bass, trap, and indie-pop influences. Hailing from an undisclosed location, Juuku’s music is a reflection of his personal journey, infused with raw emotion and a deep sense of introspection. Since emerging on the scene in 2020, Juuku has quickly gained a loyal following, with tracks like “Gone” and “Leaving” racking up millions of streams on Spotify. With support from major tastemakers like Zeds Dead, Juuku is poised to take the music world by storm with his innovative sound and undeniable talent.

    Amping up the show to a whole new level was Timmy Trumpet. Sporting his Pitbull-esque sunglasses, a trumpet, and copious amounts of alcohol, Timmy escalated the show tenfold. Timmy Trumpet is an Australian DJ, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who has been making waves in the electronic dance music scene since the early 2000s. With a background in jazz and classical music, Timmy brings a unique musicality to his high-energy performances, incorporating live trumpet playing into his sets. Known for his explosive live shows and infectious party anthems, Timmy has become a global sensation, headlining major festivals and clubs around the world. His chart-topping hits, including “Freaks” and “The Buzz,” have become instant classics, with millions of streams and views on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. With a tireless work ethic and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Timmy Trumpet is a true superstar in the world of EDM, constantly pushing the boundaries and delivering electrifying performances that leave audiences in awe.

    During Timmy’s set, he climbed the stage and started boxing the air, doing pushups, and cheering as he downed shots of tequila on stage and set off gas canisters. Timmy pulled out all the stops, taking off his shirt, spraying champagne, handing out glasses and hats, throwing out “100 dollar” bills, and even humping a giant inflatable trumpet. He celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with Irish dancing and dumped an entire bottle of tequila on stage. Timmy also sang Happy Birthday to a fellow Aussie and held his trumpet high as a trophy or a guitar, cementing his place as a true showman and a legend of the EDM world.

    Steve Aoki’s set was a visual and auditory feast for the senses. The videos playing in the background, featuring music videos and lyrics, added an extra dimension to the music. Images of funky aliens with vibrant colors and bored ape NFTs on blimps further enhanced the experience. A hyped-up entourage backed Steve up around the DJ booth, as he played fan-favorite “Hungry Heart” featuring Hayley Kiyoko and a new track set to release next month. The visuals during “My Heart Will Go On” were unforgettable, as Jack and Rose were replaced by Steve himself. He even took off his shirt and threw it into the crowd, followed by more champagne and his infamous cake-throwing tradition. Fans went wild as they caught CDs of his most recent album and fought to become bigger targets for the cake-throwing. Steve even filmed the crowd going crazy during a new song, turning it into a music video. The concert ended with a shower of streamers and confetti, and fans throwing phones onto the stage in excitement. Steve Aoki’s performance was truly a party that nobody wanted to leave.

    Keep up with Callie Reiff, Juuku, and Timmy Trumpet on their socials to see when they’ll be back near New York.

    Timmy Trumpet will be busy performing sets at multiple different shows and festivals, but will be back in NYC on Saturday May 6th at the Marquee.

    Though the Genesis Tour has wrapped, you can find Steve Aoki still performing at many different miscellaneous shows, including May 6th at Bamboozle Festival in Atlantic City, NJ. Stay up to date on show/tour announcements here.