NYS Music 2024

Author: taylor weinberg

  • In Focus: Phish Return to Madison Square Garden

    Phish kicked off their annual New Years Run at Madison Square Garden, the band’s 16th overall at the ‘World’s Most Famous Venue’ and a feather in the cap of a band who have had a remarkable 2024. 

    With shows at Sphere in Las Vegas and a stellar summer tour culminating at Mondegreen festival in Delaware (plus 4-night Mexico and Dicks runs) the foursome from Vermont have much to live up to at MSG, where the most recent performance by the band last New Year’s Eve featured a two-set stage production of the band’s Gamehendge rock opera, the holiest of Phish grails. 

    So while the bar is set high – let’s face it, Phish fans eternally set the bar high for the band – and the band doesn’t always reach that bar. It would be impossible to do so, but they gave it the ol’ college try on Saturday, December 28. 

    The show opening “Simple” would end up being the longest jam of the night, clocking in at 13 minutes, and when that’s the case, there’s a lack of flow that follows. “Free” followed and had some meat to it, but gave way to a sedate “Farmhouse”. Throw in “Poor Heart” and “Tube” plus a rare “Driver,” and the crowd was content to fall into a well placed first set “Reba,” with a beauty of a bliss jam within. A late first set “Oblivion” thankfully did not jam out for a change, and instead gave way to “Antelope” to close, as it so often has at the Garden.

    Set two looked to get things started with “Back on the Train,” and while things were headed in the right direction, “Axilla (Part 2)” limped out of the gate, with Anastasio being a bit ahead of the band. The song struggled until the outro, which worked its way nicely into “A Wave of Hope,” a jam to enjoyably get lost in. “Round Room” – which let’s be honest, needed a little more practice – was performed for only the seventh time ever, and first since 2016, yet an apropos song for Madison Square Garden. 

    Just as the excitement over “Round Room” died down, “I Always Wanted it This Way” (aka, Page EDM) took over mid-set, and after that, the rest of the set played out with a standard “Twist,” a pleasant “Mango Song”, “Blaze On”, “Cavern” and to close things out, “David Bowie.” 

    For the encore, “Mountains in the Mist” to start meant a multiple song encore was in the works, but the bar was set high when you’ve seen “Mountains” at Sphere. “Fuck Your Face” followed and random, but possibly influenced by a recent tech CEO tweet. “46 Days” to close was on par with much of the show – fun and energetic, but nothing incredible to write home about. 

    Phish fans have three more nights left in 2024, including the 25th anniversary of Big Cypress to celebrate. What does Phish have in store to close out 2024? Stay tuned!

    Setlist via Phish.net

    Set 1: Simple, Free, Farmhouse, Poor Heart, Tube, Kill Devil Falls, Driver, Reba[1], Oblivion > Run Like an Antelope

    Set 2: Back on the Train, Axilla (Part II) > A Wave of Hope > Round Room, I Always Wanted It This Way > Twist > The Mango Song > Blaze On > Cavern > David Bowie

    Encore: Mountains in the Mist, Fuck Your Face > 46 Days

    [1] No whistling.

    Reba did not contain the whistling ending. 

    Round Room was played for the first time since June 22, 2016 (322 shows)

    Photos by Taylor Weinberg

  • In Focus: Dogs In A Pile and Eggy Co-Headline The Capitol Theatre

    On Friday, November 29, perhaps the two biggest rising stars in the jam-band scene – Dogs in a Pile and Eggy – took another giant leap, packing out The Capitol Theatre to near capacity.

    The first time both bands were set to headline the iconic venue, Dogs In A Pile and Eggy had their fans pour in early to check out a pre-show at Garcia’s featuring Residual Groove. The link between the two fanbases was as clear as day, as was the decision to make the two evenings a co-headlining spectacle.

    Photo by Taylor Weinberg

    As announced on social media by Peter Shapiro a few days prior via a coin-toss, Dogs In A Pile were set to open Day 1 with Eggy following, and the reverse happened the next day.

    Dogs In A Pile hit the stage at 8pm sharp on Friday night, busting of the gate strong with “Look Johnny ll”. Hailing from Asbury Park, New Jersey, Dogs In A Pile have become a nationally recognized act, touring all around the country with great frequency. Certainly no stranger to the New York music scene, playing huge shows like the Phish after show last year at Sony Hall, Great South Bay Music Festival, as well as going on tour with Andy Frasco at Pier 17 and The Capitol Theatre itself, though this time, under a very different circumstance.

    Childhood friends who met fellow students at Berklee, the band consists of Jimmy Law on Guitar and Vocals, Joey Babick on Drums, Jeremy Kaplan on Keys and Vocals, Sam Lucid on Bass, and Brian Murray on Guitar and Vocals. Ending on a real high note, a difficult task was set upon Eggy, following what had just occurred was no small feat.

    Photo by Taylor Weinberg

    Eggy gracefully took the stage to great anticipation. In quite fitting fashion, “Here and Now” was the designated opening number as dancing re-emerged throughout the audience. Fresh off the release of their new album, “Waiting Game“, the band consists of Jake Brownstein on Guitar and Vocals, Dani Battat on Keys and Vocals, Mike Goodman on Bass and Vocals, and Alex Bailey on Drums and Vocals.

    New York is a frequent stop for Eggy, and its easy to see why. Their impressive song writing abilities, along with deep experimentation of the material, a fantastic tour-de-force is always on full display. As the first set winded down, Dani Battat slowed things down, paying tribute to his bandmate and dear friend, Jake, to celebrate his birthday.

    A cake was brought out as this touching moment was rang in by Bailey switching to his cajon and Goodman to his standup bass. An acoustic set brought the evening home, but the festivities were not over just yet.

    Photo by Taylor Weinberg

    For an encore, Dogs In A Pile came back on stage to join Eggy in family band style fashion. Paying homage to the day, “Black Friday” by Steely Dan rang out, followed by the Hunter/Garcia classic, “Bird Song”.

    The evening concluded with strong enthusiasm as another epic night of music awaited everyone the following evening. Though the two bands have similar fanbases and style, their momentums are respectively separate and strong.

    Dogs In A Pile go on to play more dates throughout December, including a 4 night run through New Years in Saratoga Springs at Putnam Palace. Eggy will also be playing in New York at the end of this month, hitting Electric City in Buffalo on the 27th, and Levon Helm Studios in Woodstock on the 29th. Tickets for all shows are available now.

    Photo by Taylor Weinberg

    Dogs In A Pile Setlist: Look Johnny ll, Nicolette, Apeman, Today, Ugly Song, G Song, Linus and Lucy, Lazy Susan, Look Johnny, Bubble

    Eggy Setlist: Here and Now, A Moments Notice, Sweaters for Strawmen, Searchlight, 12 Pounds of Pain, Eggy Birthday Song, Thorns, Bad Side of The Moon

    Dogs/Eggy Encore: Black Friday, Bird Song

  • Thesaurus Rex and Nory Cure Mental Illness at Brooklyn Made

    On Thursday, October 12th, Brooklyn Made hosted an epically unique evening. The show that was about to unfold happened to be occurring on World Mental Health Day, and Thesaurus Rex made sure to take full advantage of the opportunity in front of them.

    Before the full bands went on stage, the audience was treated to a one man performance that set the perfect tone for the evening. A live artist was on stage the entire evening, making several paintings of the performances unfolding.

    Photos by Taylor Weinberg

    Nory hit the stage at 8:30 to great anticipation. The rapper and composer from Miami has set up shop here in New York City for the last few years, going viral on the internet playing with Marc Rebillet, and packing out popular venues like The Bitter End, The Sultan Room, and Elsewhere. This evening, he was accompanied brilliantly by Jordan Kerr on Guitar, Robert Nichols on Bass, and Aviv “Skippy” Bart on Drums. With incredible passion, they began their set, which Nory clarified later was all new material.

    His sound is as if Kendrick Lamar met Rage Against The Machine or Beastie Boys, political and passionate lyrics, focusing clearly on rhymes and rhythms, all supported by hard rock music. Later venturing into old material which still holds up significantly, his range as an artist shines through and leaves you wanting more. His love for what he does is undeniable, and his connection to the audience is palpable. His passion reads so strongly, that it makes one think that even if no one was in attendance, he would, without question, still be up there playing his heart out. His performance left an impression on the audience without a doubt, something important happened and it resonated in a big way.

    After a very tough act to follow, Thesaurus Rex’s lead singer, Calvin Rezen, hit the stage with a big smile. Flanked by his bandmates Varun Jhunjhunwalla on Guitar, Dan MacDonald on drums, and Ethan Marsh on Bass, they playfully kept insisting this evenings purpose was to do the impossible, cure the entire world of all their mental health problems. The band premiered a new music video yet to be public, taking full advantage of their moment with the huge crowd.

    Crowd surfing and dancing began as Thesaurus Rex started their set, fantastic vibes permeated the room. They made sure to express their gratitude to the audience, insisting that this evening was very special to them, informing the audience that many guests would be joining them, treating this like a “family band” affair. Hard rock, punk, funk, many different styles of music clearly influence the indy rock band based in Brooklyn. Tongue and cheek style, this eccentric group hit a home run putting this evening together, as the audience was clearly locked in and having the time of their lives.

    With Nory joining them for an incredible encore of merging sounds and styles, they bid their audience goodnight as the evening concluded. Momentum is on both of these groups sides with a lot of shows on the horizon, and both promising more music to be on the way shortly.

  • In Focus: Khruangbin Lands at Forest Hills

    On Saturday, September 21, Khruangbin wrapped up the second of two nights at Forest Hills Stadium to a sold out crowd.

    Well on their way through a lengthy global tour promoting their new album, A La Sala, Men I Trust warmed up the crowd as they hit the stage at 7pm sharp. With the bar set high and excitement at its peak, the lights went dark as the trio from Houston, Texas hit the stage at 8:15.

    Khruangbin, which translates to airplane in thai, takes their audience on a journey playing consecutively through A La Sala. Exploring many themes and motifs with great style and ambiguity, the music, accompanied by choreography, stunning lighting, and set design created a touching spectacle. If it wasn’t already clear that the band is telling a story with A La Sala, the last song of set 1 exemplified this when Mark Steele, Guitar and Vocals, along with Laura Lee, Bass and Vocals, walked down and sat at the very edge of the stage.

    With DJ Johnson on Drums and Keys not far behind them, they gently played through “Le Petit Gris”, a soft piano driven melody. Sounds and visuals of thunder and rain trickling down in the windows behind them, a soft breeze that reminded everyone summer is over and fall is here, the band and audience became one.

    The second set featured classic material that could make anyone dance. Notable highlights included “The Number 3”, “August 10”, and “Evan Finds The Third Room”. With genre bending sounds of global influence that all seamlessly weave together, their minimalist approach creates soundscapes of deep grooves, catchy hooks, and mesmerizing rhythms. The trios meteoric rise to the top is no coincidence. Playing iconic festivals and venues like Coachella and Bonnaroo, Radio City Music Hall and Red Rocks, they have solidified their position in the music industry.

    With Emmanuelle Proulx of Men I Trust joining them for “Dearest Alfred”, they closed out the evening with the funky renditions of “Maria tambien” and “People Everywhere, (Still Alive)”. After the finale, Leezy reemerged from the back, throwing her extra head bands into the crowd, dancing along with the audience to “September” by Earth, Wind, & Fire. Their tour continues for a few select dates in the United States before departing again to resume tour around the world.

    Khruangbin – Forest Hills Stadium – September 21st, 2024

    Set 1: Fifteen Fifty-Three, May Ninth, Ada Jean, Farolim de Felguerias, Pon Pon, Todavia Viva, Juegos y Nubes, Hold Me Up (Thank You), Caja de la Sala, Three from Two, A Love International, Les Petits Gris
    Set 2: The Number 3, August 10, Lady and Man, The Infamous Bill, Pelota, Evan Finds the Third Room, Time (You and I)
    Encore: Dearest Alfred*, Maria tambien, People Everywhere (Still Alive)
    *with Emma from Men I Trust

  • Joe Russo’s Almost Dead Set Sail at Pier 17

    Amidst a backdrop of New York Harbor and skyscrapers, Joe Russos Almost Dead (JRAD) returned home with an impressive declaration. The New York originals hit the stage at 6:15pm sharp on Friday, September 6 and Saturday, September 7 for back to back sell out shows to no surprise. It was another day at the office for the quintet, as this show marked their second visit to The Rooftop at Pier 17.

    “Gotta Serve Somebody”, rang out to kick the weekend off. The audience would agree in saying Mr. Dylan would be proud. Tom Hamilton (Guitar and Vocals) came out swinging, delivering an electrifying solo that made the floor shake. Marco Benevento (Keys, Synth, and Vocals) as usual had infectiously positive energy as he laughed on, smiling from ear to ear like a mad scientist watching a creation thrive and prosper.

    With classics “Music Never Stopped”, “Estimated Prophet”, and “New Speedway Boogie”, the audience got their classic dead fill well before the first set ended. The second set featured several bust-outs including “Foolish Heart” and “Alice D Millionaire”. Closing with fireworks both figuratively and literally, the band encored with Them’s “Gloria”, the perfect cliffhanger to end the evening on. Scott Metzger (Guitar and Vocals) stood out here, as he did at many other points during the two nights. Masterful precision on the fret board, raw, powerfully passionate vocals, and great respect for the material of which he is deservingly trusted with.

    After an outstanding first set on night two, attendees were gifted a special treat – a sit in featuring Lee Ranaldo, formerly of Sonic Youth. At first, only accompanied by the band leader Joe Russo (Drums, Percussion, and Vocals), rain began trickling in as the duo embarked upon a tribute to Ned Lagins, “Seastones”. A composition of deep ambient space as Mr. Ranaldo alternated between a synth pick up rig, xylophones, and using what seemed like a violin bow on his guitar. The rest of the group joined the stage not long after. With rain coming down harder, the band nor the audience paid it any mind, as it all seemed quite fitting. They gracefully transitioned into “Dark Star,” with Lee taking lead on vocals. JRAD’s guest proved no stranger to Grateful Dead aura, seamlessly joining the fold, elevating the show to an unanticipated but greatly appreciated height.

    With the bar set very high, the rest of set two featured numerous heavy hitters in the famous catalog of music. The arrival of “Terrapin Station” was an important stop of the evening before the audience would erupt once more. The iconic piano melody played masterfully by Benevento, Pink Floyd classic, “Pigs (Three Different Ones)” was up next. Ha-ha’ing all unison, the endeavor unfolding could make one take notice as to what makes JRAD the epic force it continues to be.

    In a world where Grateful Dead cover bands are in abundance, there are the ones that stand out and the ones that don’t. JRAD is in a league entirely of their own. Touring around the country quite frequently, they leave no stone unturned, both in musical style and energy. Led by Russo, whose ability behind a drum and percussion kit could make one’s jaw drop, him and his bandmates function like co-pilots, flying and landing an epic plane.

    One faux farewell later and with Mr. Ronaldo back on stage, “Morning Dew” was the closing designated number. As the band played on, the audience took it all in one last time in almost complete silence. Going out with a strong force of momentum, they bid their audience goodnight. While the band must have been rightfully exhausted, the same could not be said about the audience. The house appropriately played “This Must Be The Place” from The Talking Heads to which the concert venue became a dance floor. Their tour will resume nationwide in early October.

    Joe Russos Almost Dead – Rooftop at Pier 17 – September 6, 2024

    Set 1: Gotta Serve Somebody, The Music Never Stopped, Estimated Prophet, New Speedway Boogie, Hot Lanta, Shakedown Street

    Set 2: New Minglewood Blues, Foolish Heart, Brown-Eyed Women, Alice D. Millionarie, Feel Like A Stranger, Atlantic City, Casey Jones, Playing In The Band

    Encore: Gloria

    Joe Russos Almost Dead – Rooftop at Pier 17 – September 7, 2024

    Set 1: My Brother Esau, Rueben and Cherise, Let It Grow, Help on the Way, Slipknot! , Fire and Brimstone, Cumberland Blues

    Set 2: Seastones, Dark Star, Where’s Sly? Lady With A Fan, Terrapin Station, Greatest Story Ever Told, Pigs (Three Different Ones), Jack Straw

    Encore: Morning Dew

    joe russo's almost dead pier 17
    joe russo's almost dead pier 17

  • Boojum’s “Electric Wonderland” Lights Up Brooklyn Art Haus with Psychedelic Splendor 

    This fall, Brooklyn is set to experience a kaleidoscope of psychedelic marvels as New York rising stars Boojum take over Brooklyn Art Haus for a four-show run of “Electric Wonderland.” The residency will feature the band’s distinctive fusion of improvisational jam-band rock and immersive theatrical performances, redefining the live music experience.

    Boojum Electric Wonderland

    Every other Friday from September 13th through October 25th, Boojum will turn Brooklyn Art Haus into a playground of psychedelic fantasy, taking participants on a journey into the fantastical realms of Alice in Wonderland and other Lewis Carroll classics. Meant to be more than a series of concerts, “Electric Wonderland” is planned as an evolving spectacle, with every performance a new adventure featuring surprise guests and a dynamic setlist that guarantees no two nights are ever the same.

    Boojum Electric Wonderland

    “Electric Wonderland goes beyond music. We are creating a one-of-a-kind visually and sonically stunning theatrical experience,” said Sarah Elaz, bassist of Boojum. “By making every night of this residency different with no repeats and plenty of unexpected twists, we are embracing and evolving what it means to be a part of the modern jam band scene.”

    The residency marks a pivotal moment for Boojum as they build on their debut performance of “Electric Wonderland” at Brooklyn Bowl to establish a new home for their ambitious, immersive production. Boojum’s debut EP, Electric Wonderland Vol. 1: Down the Rabbit Hole, released in April, set the stage for what’s to expect, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the group’s ability to blend jam, EDM, funk, pop, and progressive influences into a captivating theatrical experience for fans seeking a feast for their eyes and ears. 

    Expect elaborate costumes, intricate choreography, and spellbinding projections that complement Boojum’s eclectic and improvisational soundtrack. For those ready to dive into the rabbit hole where psychedelic rock meets theatrical spectacle, “Electric Wonderland” promises an unforgettable journey. 

    Event Details:

    • What: Boojum’s “Electric Wonderland”
    • When: Fridays 9/13/24, 9/27/24, 10/11/24, 10/25/24
    • Where: Brooklyn Art Haus, 24 Marcy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
    • Tickets: Available now

  • Psychedelic Arcadia: Balthvs and Free Whenever at Brooklyn Bowl

    On Thursday, August 29, Brooklyn fans of the psychedelic rock genre were treated to a priceless exhibition. The heat was strong, but so was the enthusiasm of the evenings attendees. Two trio bands from different corners of the world – Balthvs and Free Whenever – were paired together so remarkably that it made one think to compliment whomever was responsible for the matter.

    Free Whenever, a Brooklyn based psychedelic rock band, took the stage at 8pm sharp to a size-able crowd, nothing to sneeze at for an opening act on a Wednesday evening. The band consists of Neil Guleria on Guitar, Trevor LaVecchia on Bass, and Brendan Steuart on drums. This is not the first time the trio finds themselves opening for a big name in Brooklyn, having opened for Karina Rykman at Babies All Right late last year.

    The chemistry between the gentleman is palpable both in the auditory and visual sense, and it pays off in a huge way. Playing through their entire new self-titled album, they ventured into both old and new songs that demonstrate the essence of their signature sound of psychedelic groove music. Notable highlights were “Camino“, “Sicily“, and “Jonas the Shaman” a song whom they claimed was based off the very man running their merch table in the back. With the unreleased track, “Horizons”, they went out with a thunderous hurrah, the palate was cleansed, and the stage was set.

    Balthvs, a psychedelic funk triad from Columbia, graced the stage just after 9pm. Their stop on this leg of their tour not only marks their first performance in New York, but the first time the group has been on the east coast entirely. Touring to promote their new album, “Harvest“, the band consists of Johanna Mercuriana on Bass/Vocals, Santiago Lizano on Drums/Vocals, and Balthazar Aguirre on Guitar/Vocals. Balthvs, with the v pronounced like a u, made their New York debut quite memorable, guiding the evening through a lens the likes of which are quite rare.

    The band boasts an impressive catalog of music for just having officially formed less than 5 years ago. 3 full length albums under their belt and 40 singles, many of which have millions of streams. The crowd was fully behind the headliners as dancing was the assignment. Balthazar mentioned in between songs that they were dining at the venues restaurant before showtime, and he saw a “Joe Russos Almost Dead Burger”. Laughs emerged amongst the audience. “I dont know if we have any heads here..hope we dont screw this up!” which was followed by a truly wonderful rendition of Grateful Dead‘s, “Bird Song”, a first for them on this tour.

    One could say that their set was a masterclass in defining the root definition of what modern psychedelic music is. A myriad of global influences and style, a kaleidoscope of sound. Funk, Disco, Middle Eastern, Cumbia, Rock and Roll and so much more. The evening concluded with a final encore, long lines at the merch stand could be found for both acts. Free Whenever continues to build momentum locally. Balthvs will go on to play Austin City Limits, and then abroad to Europe and The Middle East continuing support of their new album, Harvest.

    Free Whenever – Brooklyn Bowl, Williamsburg – Wednesday August 28, 2024

    Setlist: Altitude, Camino, Sticky, Nightwalker, Precipice, Desert Wanderer, Calypso, Sicily, Jonas The Shaman, Day 1, Horizons

  • BlackJeans takes on the End of The World in Purgatory

    In the large oasis that is New York State’s music scene, it may seem difficult to stand out. Of course, there must be real talent; catchy melodies and hooks, a great ensemble-band that plays live flawlessly, but there’s always that “something” more. Perhaps its the person behind the music, a personality so undeniable that one simply must come and see it and hear it for themselves.

    About BlackJeans

    All of this and more sums up BlackJeans, a Musician and Producer based in Ridgewood, Queens who will be presenting “The End of The World, Part 2” at Purgatory on Friday, August 10. A torchbearer representing a lost art; the art of seduction through music. All in all, BlackJeans has an impressive resume thats bound to make anyones head turn. The event will look to live up to last year’s event by being bigger and better. A tough statement to back up based on last year’s turnout.

    A Musician and Producer in NYC for the last ten years, BlackJeans has packed out shows like Sofar Sounds and venues such as Sultan Room, Brooklyn Bowl and more. Moreover, BlackJeans now finds himself at his biggest moment yet. His latest single “Belladonna” is joined with other certified bops such as “Cellphone“, “Painkiller.” Additionally, songs like “All Too Much” and “Lovin Again” have accompanying music videos which premiered on Vimeo. We sat down with BlackJeans about what goes into making his music. We also discussed his highly-anticipated show on August 10 at Purgatory.

    TDW: What would you say your biggest influences are?

    BlackJeans: Ooh baby, these days anything that gets me hot and bothered and ready to dance. Rhythm, tempo, and anything that feels like a party. Disco, electronic, house, salsa, big band swing. Put a little dirt on it and i’ll eat it right up and howl probably.

    TDW: How would you best describe your sound?

    BlackJeans: Thats a great question. Typically, I would do everything I can not to describe it…I’d say it sounds like seedy basement dance music that was tucked away in a forgotten section of an old denim factory in Ridgewood, Queens. Drum and bass-groove heavy music that you’d find in a damp speak easy with neon lights. Paired well with cocktails and a late night afterparty.

    TDW: What is The End Of The World?

    BlackJeans: The End Of The World is an event series im continuing to throw in NY for all the sexy late bloomers, weirdos, misfits, queers, and people who know how to turn it the fuck out. Its equal parts dance party, live show, and carnival with variety performers, a live set of music and always a special guest DJ. Chock full of free prizes, drinks, and some other stuff I cant get into here. Oh, and theres always a dress code.

    TDW: What plays into your songwriting?

    BlackJeans: I love love. Cant get away from it. Love is a mixed bag. Covers an overwhelmingly wide range, yea? It can make you feel alive, it can mess you up, make you wanna dance, make you wanna cry…sometimes all of these things at the SAME TIME! I think that juxtaposition and duality is beautiful and were all probably feeling it effects on any given day. I don’t really believe in genre, I like too many of them and I probably haven’t even heard them all! So Im going to keep playing in as many that feel right, its 2024, best be genre bending. For now, I’m wrapped up in dance music like someone who’s been tumbling in a washing machine for 7 months straight. With no AC or lights…

    TDW: What can people expect from The End Of The World Part 2

    BlackJeans: Im going to be clear with you. You can expect an EP’s worth of new music, a gorilla in lingere giving a lap dance to a horse, burlesque hoola hoopers, me growing 8 feet tall, a free round of drinks, and a DJ set by Souldrippp. Shes amazing and I’m shocked we got her to agree to come here all the way from France. Thats like 27% of what you can expect. Okay?

    All this to say, momentum is on BlackJeans side. While August 10 will be an evening to capitalize on. Epic tunes, costumes and gorillias galore, who know what antics him and his band well be up to this time, very limited tickets remain for The End Of The World Part 2 at Purgatory.

  • blink-182 covers the bases and more at Citi Field

    On Sunday, July 21, blink-182 returned to the Big Apple in grand fashion to support their new album and tour, “One More Time…” With the weather being perfect for an outdoor show, fans were tailgating early at Citi Field in Queens, as they lined up for early merch stands and flooded in to check out the opening acts.

    Ekkstasy went first, followed by a passionate performance from Pierce The Veil, the stage was set perfectly as blink-182 reemerged in New York for the first time in almost 10 years. The classic gongs and church bells from the theme-song of WWE Superstar, The Undertaker rang out.

    With a solid setlist filled with new tracks off their new album, One More Time…, along with iconic classics the fans know and love, the evening was locked and loaded with fireworks to deliver an experience that wont be forgotten by anyone in attendance soon. Classic banter and jokes amongst the bandmates was like old times after a long absence, as blink-182 looked right at home, the crowd able to see the true appreciation the group has for their die-hard fans. Fans such as theirs prove that music truly has the power to stand the test of time and age. Whether its for a laugh or for that one song that hits you in the feels, there is something for everyone in blink-182’s discography and live performances.

    The excitement in the air was well warranted. Its been almost ten years since all three members of the band stood united. Tom DeLonge only recently rejoined his original bandmates, Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker. Hoppus is fresh off a successful bout with cancer. Barker held an event at Citi Field earlier that day before his show, Run Travis Run, a running and wellness experience that highlights his own health recovery. All this to say, this show clearly demonstrated that blink-182 has found themselves in a new era, a new era where the sky is the limit and fun is at its maximum.

    The iconic trio from California closed out the epic night proving just how and why they are as timeless as ever, intermixing the late 90s classic, “Dammit” with Sabrina Carpenters, “Espresso”. Their tour continues on nation wide till mid august.

    link-182 – Citi Field, Queens, NY – Sunday, July 21

    Setlist: Feeling This, The Rock Show, Man Overboard, Aliens Exist, Dance With Me, Obvious, Bored to Death, Edging, Up All Night, More Than You Know, M+M’s, Stay Together for the Kids, Not Now, Cant Go Back, I Miss You, Down, When Your Heart Stops Beating, There Is, Fuck Face, Anthem Part 3, Always, Whats My Age Again?, First Date, All the Small Things, Dammit

    Encore: One More Time

  • Goose sell out Forest Hills; Biggest show yet

    On Saturday, June 29, Forest Hills Stadium in Queens saw Goose fans flocking towards the venue well before doors opened. With strong but pleasant winds blowing in alongside them, the anticipation was undeniable as large lines formed to snag posters and merch. Long time friends reuniting, new friends being made, the vibes were high as everyone in the audience eagerly awaited what was to come.

    Goose Forest Hills

    Forest Hills was their second stop in New York on what has been a lengthy nationwide spring and early summer tour. If it wasn’t already hard enough to deny how unstoppable this band is, the announcement that this show was their biggest headlining show to date all but solidifies it, selling out the venue of 13,000 people. This isn’t the first time their draw power in New York was in full view, the band previously sold out two nights at Radio City Music Hall, boasting crowds of more than 6,000.

    Goose Forest Hills

    Excitement was at its peak when Goose hit the stage, greeted by the audience chanting “Gooooose” loudly, but low pitched. As is also usual custom, Peter Anspach saluted the crowd with “What’s up, New York City?!” before embarking on what was to be an evening of pure music-magic. The super catchy and funky notes of “Hot Tea” rang out to open the first set. Hips and arms swayed side to side, smiles were everywhere as fans matched lead singer and guitarist Rick Mitarotunda’s scatting.

    The first set featured covers, foreshadowing what would come much later. The band tapped into their deep catalog by busting out “Hot Love & the Lazy Poet” from their own side project, Vasudo, and following that, “I Would Die 4 U,” a tribute to the illustrious Prince. The evening’s exceptional vibes were expounded during set-break, as the audience bore witness and cheered on a marriage proposal which saw the bride to be saying yes enthusiastically.

    Goose Forest Hills

    Goose showcased just how deep and expansive their catalogue of music is during the second set, with electrifying renditions of “Travelers” and “Elmeg The Wise.” A beautiful version of “Thatch” came after, bringing the evening to uncharted heights. Closing out set 2 was the title track off their 2023 album, Dripfield, a song that truly exemplifies the essence of what Goose represents as a band.

    A brave and bold new frontier, honoring the footsteps of their predecessors, but carving out their own path. An exciting contemporary take on the classic jam band model, incorporating new sounds and tech with traditional instruments and improvisation. Jams that serve very well written songs, not songs that serve the epic jams. All of this enhanced by an impressive lighting design by Andrew Goedde, seeing Goose live is a must for any fan of live music.

    Goose Forest Hills

    The encore saw the band once again tapping into their deep arsenal, busting out one more cover from Vasudo, “Give It Time”, which was the perfect note to end to the evening on. As light wind and rain began to trickle in, the audience flocked out the venue paying the elements no mind as the anticipation began once again for their next show. Goose will embark on another lengthy fall tour, which tickets are on sale for now.

    Goose Forest Hills

    Goose – Forest Hills Stadium, Queens – Saturday, June 29, 2024

    Set 1: Hot Tea, Lead Up, Turned Clouds, Yeti , Hot Love & the Lazy Poet, I Would Die 4 U, So Ready

    Set 2: Travelers, Elmeg the Wise, Thatch, 726, Dripfield

    Encore: Give It Time

    Goose Forest Hills
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    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills
    Goose Forest Hills