NYS Music 2024

Category: Photo Gallery

  • Hozier Plays Sold-Out Show at Bethel Woods for Unreal Unearth Tour

    Saturday, July 27 saw Andrew Hozier-Byrne, better known as Hozier, play a sold out show at the historic Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Hozier is currently touring across North America with opener Allison Russell to celebrate the release of his Unreal Unearth album.

    Hozier, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Hozier, born in Ireland but popular worldwide for his songs, “Take Me to Church” and “Too Sweet,” has made many stops in NY while on tour. He recently played four nights at Forest Hills Stadium in June. Hozier is well known for his powerful voice and honest songwriting, touching on themes of heartbreak, abuse, love, and humanity through his deeply personal and self-aware lyrics. 

    Hozier bethel woods
    Hozier, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Fans flocked to the concert in the early afternoon, tailgating with friends and family in white skirts, floral tank tops, and Hozier merchandise. While the majority of people sat on the lawn, those who were lucky enough to snag good seats in the 20 minute period before completely selling out the show sat under the pavilion, with a clear view of Hozier and the stage. During the concert, friends, family, and couples danced freely, truly taking in the night. Hardly any phones were present—people were truly living in the moment.

    Hozier bethel woods
    Hozier, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    During his song, “Like Real People Do,” Hozier experienced a guitar malfunction and quickly moved on to the next song on his setlist. He stated, “This is how you know I’m playing live,” followed by a few laughs from him and the crowd. He recognized a familiar face and shared a sweet interaction with the fan, stating, “Is that you? Yeah, yeah! Good to see you again… I love you too.” 

    Hozier bethel woods
    Hozier, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Finally, he wrapped up the night with a surprisingly long, yet beautiful encore. He left the stage after “Take Me to Church” and snuck off to a separate makeshift area closer to the people in the nosebleeds, and performed a beautiful rendition of his song, “Cherry Wine.” Fans waved their phone flashlights in the air, looking up in awe, crying, and swaying peacefully to the eclectic music as Hozier entranced the crowd with his gentle vocals and intricate guitar playing. 

    Hozier bethel woods
    Crowd, photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Finally, to finish off the encore, he stopped to talk to the audience about the current social and political issues affecting the world. Hozier has always been vocal about his support of the LGBTQ+ community and in the importance of voting, protesting, and recognizing the violence that is happening in other countries. He stated, “I’d only like to see Palestine free from occupation, free from violence,” before leading into song, “Nina Cried Power.” Although Hozier does not have any more New York dates scheduled for the rest of his tour, he is sure to return in the future. 

    Hozier – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – Saturday, July 27, 2024

    Setlist: De Selby (Part 1), De Selby (Part 2), Jackie and Wilson, From Eden, Angel of Small Death and the Codeine Scene, Dinner & Diatribes, Francesca, It Will Come Back; I, Carrion (Icarian); Abstract (Psychopomp), Like Real People Do, Wildflower and Barley (with Allison Russell), Would that I, Too Sweet, Almost (Sweet Music), Eat Your Young, Movement, Take Me to Church

    Encore: Cherry Wine, Unknown / Nth, Nina Cried Power, Work Song (with Allison Russell)

  • Billie Marten Announces New Album at Surprise Show

    Billie Marten played a surprise show at Union Pool on Wednesday, July 24. The British indie/folk singer-songwriter announced the show in a handwritten note on Instagram teasing “mostly new stuff” to be played. Marten began her set with an announcement of a new record that she had just spent ten days recording down the street from Union Pool. She didn’t give a solid idea of when this new album might be coming out, but Marten’s last album, Drop Cherries, released just over a year ago on April 7, 2023.

    Opening for Billie Marten was writer and musician Jana Horn. If you like Big Thief and Adrianne Lenker, you might also enjoy Jana Horn’s work. Intimate, interpersonal talk singing poetry over folksy drums and unique bass lines. She rode the line between banter and awkwardness perfectly, and the crowd had a great time. Marten then came out quietly onto the stage in Union Pool’s back room, which has the vibe of a Christmassy saloon. One pink light drenched Marten onstage with her acoustic guitar in her spaghetti strap top, light wash jeans, and red converse.

    The show was very low-key. Marten’s pickup came loose and the sound engineer scrambled down from his spot up on the balcony as the crowd parted around him. Billie Marten told the audience to talk amongst themselves, and the room filled with a buzz until she was ready to play again. There was plenty of audience banter as Marten changed tunings between each song. We only got to hear four or five new songs, so there is definitely more to come down the road. Hopefully, Billie Marten will be able to put the finishing touches on her album soon, as we are all eagerly awaiting her next show in NY.

  • The Flaming Lips Bring Spectacle and Yoshimi to Beak & Skiff

    According to Webster’s Dictionary, a spectacle can be defined as “A visually striking performance or display.”  If one were to add an addendum to this, they could add “The Flaming Lips in concert” and anyone would be hard pressed to dispute this.  

    The Flaming Lips brought their 2024 tour to Beak & Skiff in LaFayette on Tuesday, July 23.  The psychedelic rockers from Oklahoma City were continuing a tour which has seen them play the 2002 album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots in full, each night. most recently at Lewiston’s ArtPark.  The album, one of 16 in The Flaming Lips catalog, brought the band their biggest commercial success, and has long been the centerpiece of the Lips’ highly regarded live performances.  

    As the 7:30pm start time drew close, a palpable energy set in across the apple orchard’s concert field.  Front-man and equally skilled hype-man Wayne Coyne did his part to energize and excite the crowd as he sat side stage. Once the clock struck half past seven, Coyne moved to center stage and the band wasted no time getting the spectacle started. With the acoustic opening strums of Yoshimi’s “Fight Test”, and a large bust of confetti from the multiple confetti canons placed around the stage, the evening’s festivities were underway.  As Coyne sang the song’s opening lyrics, giant pink robots inflated around the stage, dwarfing Coyne and his bandmates.  

    The spectacle would continue to take new heights as the band worked their way through the 2002 album.  Dramatic lights draped the stage and the audience.  Coyne shot copious amounts of confetti into the crowd, and tossed giant inflatable beach balls (again, filled with confetti) into the pit.  He sang under a giant inflatable rainbow during “Do You Realize”, a song about cherishing the time you have with your loved ones.

    Following the performance of Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots (and a short intermission), the band returned for a second set, which paid homage to the many other stand out tracks through out their career.  The band returned to the stage and launched into their 1993 hit “She Don’t Use Jelly”.  Other highlights of the second set included “Flowers of Neptune”, “The Spark that Bled”, “Yeah Yeah Yeah Song”, and “Race for the Price”.  

    It would be easy to anticipate musicians merely going through the motions after 40 years of performances.  The Flaming Lips did anything but this.  Coyne donned a giant smile between each song, and regularly summoned more and more energy from the crowd.  He told stories of the inspirations behind the music, and urged a message of peace and love.  In all, the band seemed to take great pride in delivering their spectacle to the audience at Beak & Skiff.

  • Oneness Tour with Santana, Counting Crows Summer Jam at Jones Beach

    In what would have originally seemed as an odd tour grouping, Counting Crows and Santana have embarked on a summer tour across North America playing a total of 29 shows.

    For long time fans of both bands, this will of course not come as a shock as back in 2002 both bands toured together for the first time.

    The tour kicked off in Florida and made its way to Long Island this past weekend, with a sold out show at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh. Counting Crows opening the night with a 13 song, 70 min set and Santana and his massive band ripping through 19 songs during their 105 min set.

    Counting Crows Setlist: Hard Candy, Richard Manuel Is Dead, Mr. Jones, Colorblind, Omaha, Anna Begins, Miami, Big Yellow Taxi (Joni Mitchell cover), Round Here, Rain King, the 1 (Taylor Swift cover), A Long December, Hanginaround, Holiday in Spain

    Santana Setlist: Soul Sacrifice, Jin-go-lo-ba (Babatunde Olatunji cover), Evil Ways (Willie Bobo cover), Black Magic Woman / Gypsy Queen, Oye cómo va (Tito Puente cover), Everybody’s Everything, Europa (Earth’s Cry, Heaven’s Smile), The Game of Love, She’s Not There / Spill the Wine / Papa Was a Rolling Stone / In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida, Sacalo, Hope You’re Feeling Better, (Da le) Yaleo, Put Your Lights On, Corazón espinado, Maria Maria, Foo Foo
    Encore: Are You Ready (The Chambers Brothers cover), Drum Solo, Smooth

  • The Felice Brothers mesmerized a packed Mohawk Place with Dead Gowns

    Folk-rock band The Felice Brothers and Dead Gowns performed at the local historic bar and venue, Mohawk Place on Tuesday, July 23.

    Dead Gowns, led by Portland songwriter Geneviève Beaudoin, opened the show with an intimate acoustic set. Geneviève Beaudoin’s voice is the right mix of haunting and enchanting that hypnotized the audience into patiently waiting in the hot and intimate Mohawk Place on this steamy Tuesday evening. Dead Gowns will continue to tour with the Felice Brothers for the rest of July.

    The Felice Brothers launched their Mohawk Place set with “Crime Scene Queen” to a packed room of die-hard fans erupting in cheers. One fan we spoke to even scheduled their summer visit to Buffalo around this show. They blended their set with their latest release songs from their 2024 album Valley of Abandoned Songs and an assortment of songs from their 19 albums and EPs.

    Some notable songs performed were “Love me Tenderly,” “Whiskey In My Whiskey” and fan-favorite “Frankie’s Gun!” Lead vocals and energy by Ian Felice and James Felice were infectious. Ian’s vocals and guitars paired with James’ accordion and piano talent paired seamlessly with the talented Jesske Hume’s fluid bass and Will Lawrence’s steady drums. 

    One of the memorable aspects of the night was the request from a newlywed couple to perform “A Wonderful Life.” The band gladly performed the song and sang along with the couple, enjoying their moment of happiness. The band, all dressed in their finest blazers, were sweating along with the audience so Buffalo shared their hospitality by offering them all a nice, cold PBR to cool them off during their set. It almost felt like we were all invited to the couple’s wedding and we were celebrating all together, a beautiful moment of music, family and happiness.

    Regardless of how well you know the Felice Brothers, they put on a show that makes you feel like you have known them for years. The Felice Brothers will be playing the Hollerhorn Distillery in Naples, New York on August 23rd.

    Dead Gowns

    The Felice Brothers

  • In Focus: Secret Dreams Festival Delights the Senses

    The third annual Secret Dreams Music and Arts Festival brought together many of the top acts in the EDM and jam scene, including Tipper, the Disco Biscuits, Daily Bread, Detox Unit, Papadosio, Lotus and many more.

    lotus at secret dreams festival

    Secret Dreams went down in Legend Valley in Thornville, OH from July 18-20 and while the acts on the three main stages drew most of the attention there were workshops and art installations to delight the crowd as they explored to expansive grounds.

  • Hot Freaks Forever: An Ode to Hot Freaks’ Inevitable Reunion

    From the moment I hit play on Hot Freaks’ new album Hot Freaks Forever, I was instantly transported into a nostalgic time warp, addictingly reliving the raw angst and bittersweet memories of my high school days. With 10 funky synth-pop and disco tracks, Minneapolis indie pop-rock band Hot Freaks resurrected from an almost decade long hiatus and infectiously captured all of our hearts at the Mercury Lounge on July 19. 

    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    “We had already been talking about reuniting,” said frontman Leo Vondracek. “I could tell that our Spotify streams had been creeping up, which was weird because we weren’t doing anything about it at all.”

    After years of inactivity from the band, the song “Puppy Princess” from their debut album Hot Freaks went viral and became an overnight hit. “I didn’t really think it was that big of a deal, but then later that week we were getting emails from record labels. It was very surreal,” Vondracek recounted. 

    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    Opening their set with “Let’s Start a Country” from their new album, the night started with everyone chanting unisonally “One, two, three, let’s start a country,” perfectly encapsulating the feeling of wanting to move away from modern civilization and disappear into a vacuum.

    They then transitioned to some of their more personal and intimate songs like “Write Me Letters” and “Heartache” from their previous album. When asked if their songs are generally autobiographical, Vondracek replied, “The songs that have worked are the ones that have this vulnerability and intrigue. They’re mostly, I guess, autobiographical, and even if it’s not like the whole story, they have a nugget of truth in them.”

    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    Comparing their latest album to their debut album, Vondracek commented, “I feel like maybe compared to the first record, the second one is a little less vulnerable or more hiding behind metaphors.” Keyboardist Celeste Heule seemed to agree with this, and shared her thoughts on it: “I do feel like the second album has a lot of secret vulnerabilities in every song, but that could also because I read into lyrics and have my own vivid imagination. I don’t even know what they’re about or what Leo is thinking, but I feel like I’m reading into his soul. It’s stuff he doesn’t want me to know.” 

    One of my favorites of the night was “Stuart Little Vibes,” a quirky song with a soothing bridge that made me feel sublimely elevated from the venue. While Vondracek described this song as “a bit cartoonish,” he also felt the song was very postmodern. “It was like an idea of a thing, it wasn’t an actual thing. We wanted to try making something funky and weird in a fun way,” explained Vondracek.

    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    Diving into their songwriting process, Vondracek commented, “It’s like writing a diary entry and making yourself find a balance. If you’re feeling low, vent it, and if you can put it into a fun pop song that has a self-contained arc to it – that’s like really fun.” Vondracek also talked about finding courage in the process: “It’s kind of like skydiving. You have to get ready to bolster yourself up to jump out of that plane. It’s really similar – the courage to get up there and be vulnerable.”

    The band also performed “What Can I Do?” from their latest album. While a lot of their music is about love and yearning for unrequited crushes, this song thematically stood out to me from their other music – painting an introspective picture on the struggles of moving on with melancholically upbeat instrumentals in the background. “It felt like a very first thing that popped into my mind. I thought that it was really fun because it was kind of a straight shooting, simple lyric and a sad vulnerable thing,” said Vondracek. Bassist Sarah Darnall added, “It’s like you did a really hard yoga class and you get to do your Savasana at the end.”

    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    When asked about finality and completion of a song, Vondracek interestingly remarked: “A lot of time it feels like archaeology, like thrusting the dirt off and uncovering. Sometimes there is this intrinsic feeling, but more and more, I barely have that magic feeling. I think we all seek that feeling of completion, but if you don’t feel that, it doesn’t mean it’s bad. Sometimes you just have to take that leap of faith and believe that’s good.”

    The night ended with their two most popular songs “Puppy Princess” and “I Wanna be your Boyfriend.” The crowd went absolutely crazy, and people were jumping, screaming their guts out and hugging their friends. The atmosphere was intoxicatingly electric, and the intensity made it feel like a massive block party where people were busting out their best dance moves. It was chaotic, unhinged and just the right amount of freaky.

    Photo by Alisha Goel

    Hot Freaks – Mercury Lounge, NYC – July 19, 2024

    Setlist: Let’s Start a Country, Together Above, Write Me Letters, Heartache, End of the Night, Stuart Little Vibes, Boyfriend, Outset, Not Concerned with Everything, Girlfriend, I Want You To Be My Daddy, Baby Boy, What Can I Do, Puppy Princess, I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend

    Photo by Alisha Goel
    Photo by Alisha Goel
    Photo by Alisha Goel
    Hot Freaks
    Photo by Alisha Goel

    Listen to Hot Freaks Forever below.

  • In Focus: The Crane Wives Flock to Albany

    The Crane Wives, a four-piece indie band hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, took the stage at Lark Hall in Albany, for a sold-out show that resonated with energy, uniqueness and charm.

    Opening for The Crane wives was American performer, composer and guitarist, Yasmin Williams from northern Virginia who landed on the Billboard Heatseekers chart with her debut album, 2018’s Unwind and released her second album, Urban Driftwood, to widespread critical acclaim in 2021.

    Yasmin Williams

    Founded in 2010, The Crane Wives,composed of Emilee Petersmark (guitar/vocals), Kate Pillsbury (guitar/vocals), Dan Rickabus (drums/vocals), and Ben Zito (bass), has been weaving their unique sound through the fabric of the indie music scene, which makes their ever-growing popularity compelling to witness live.

    From the moment the lights dimmed and the opening notes of “Queen of Nothing” filled the room, it was clear that the audience was in for a night to remember. The Crane Wives’ upbeat sound is infectious; they expertly blend folk influences with catchy melodies, creating an atmosphere that had even the most reserved attendees mesmerized and dancing to the rhythm. The use of three-part harmonies is particularly noteworthy, allowing them to create a textured sound that sets them apart from the myriad of other indie rock outfits. Songs like “Queen of Nothing” set the tone for the evening, transitioning seamlessly into the rest of their impressive 17-song setlist which was finished up with an encore of “Scars” and “The Hand That Feeds.”

    The lyrics penned by the band are often deeply introspective, tackling themes that many of their dedicated listeners can relate to, yet they are always delivered with an upbeat musicality that defies the weight of the words. This juxtaposition between lyrical depth and energetic rhythm is what makes The Crane Wives so captivating; it’s a celebration of life, even in the face of hardships that connects their music to their ever growing fan base.

    Throughout the concert, it was evident that The Crane Wives prioritize creating a sense of community within their fans. Their engagement with the audience was sincere and heartfelt. Between songs, the brief banter flowed effortlessly, allowing for moments of connection. This warm approach made the sold-out venue feel intimate and welcoming, as if you were sharing the experience with friends rather than watching a performance from a distance.

    As the night unfolded, the crowd danced, sang along, and echoed the band’s harmonies, creating an exhilarating sense of unity. With the anticipation of their upcoming album, Beyond Beyond Beyond, set to release on September 6.

    The Crane Wives at Lark Hall was not just a concert; it was an immersive experience that combined exceptional musicianship with a passionate connection with their fans. If their performance is any indication, the band’s trajectory is set to rise even higher.

    With their ability to captivate audiences and create a vibrant community around them, The Crane Wives are poised for an even brighter future, and one can only hope there will be more opportunities to enjoy their lively and poignant music in concert.

  • The Flaming Lips Dazzle at Artpark

    The Flaming Lips performed their blend of psychedelic musical theatrics at Artpark for their ‘Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots 2024 Tour’ on a breezy Monday evening, July 22.

    The mixture of long-time fans and new fans with different ages buzzed with excitement to share the moment with Flaming Lips, anticipating a jubilant celebration of their 2002 album: Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots.

    Before the show started, “Okie from Muskogee” was playing in the background, carrying the fans slowly driven into an energizing mood. The Flaming Lips opened the stage with “Fight Test,” while the band shared the stage with four Pink Robots growing and dancing before their eyes.

    The first set was the album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. The band took a break after the song “Approaching Pavonis Mons by Balloon,” leaving the audience eager for more.

    The second set starts with their nonsensical hit “She Don’t Use Jelly” as fans of all ages sing along with the band. Wayne Coyne (lead singer) performed in his trademark giant plastic bubble, throwing balloons to the crowd, setting the tone, color, and phenomenal props for the extraordinary performance.

    The whole night felt like a fun night at psychedelic karaoke as all the lyrics lit up the back of the stage so the audience could sing in unison for their two hour set. Although the audience really didn’t need too much help.  The band finished their set with “Race for the Prize” and a oversized “Fuck Yeah Artpark” inflatable balloon and celebrated this beautiful moment with the crowd.

    This moment of experiencing Flaming Lips performance would be remembered as one of the best and most colorful summer concerts at Artpark or even in Western New York. If you missed them or you hope to see them again, the Flaming Lips will be taking their Pink Robots tour to Toronto, September 8th.

    The Flaming Lips – Artpark, Lewiston, NY – Monday, July 22, 2024

    Set 1: Fight Test, One More Robot/Sympathy 300-21, Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Pt. 1, Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots, Pt. 2, In the Morning of the Magicians, Ego Tripping at the Gates of Hell, Are You a Hypnotist??, It’s Summertime, Do You Realize??, All We Have Is Now, Approaching Pavonis Mons by Balloon (Utopia Planitia)

    Set 2: She Don’t Use Jelly, Flowers of Neptune 6, The Gold in the Mountain of Our Madness, What Is the Light?, The Observer, The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song, Suddenly Everything Has Changed, Pompeii Am Götterdämmerung, A Spoonful Weighs a Ton, Race for the Prize

  • Reggae Takes the Stage at the 2024 Great South Bay Music Festival

    The second day of the Great South Bay Music Festival on Friday, July 19, was a vibrant celebration of reggae music, transforming Shorefront Park into a haven of laid-back rhythms and positive vibes. The day featured an eclectic mix of reggae, ska, and rock, drawing fans from all over Long Island and beyond.

    Main Stage Highlights

    Pepper: Formed in 1997 in Hawaii, Pepper has been a staple in the reggae rock scene for over two decades, known for their infectious energy and dynamic sound. They kicked off their set with the energetic “Bring Me Along,” followed by “Rent,” keeping the energy high. Their set also included crowd favorites like “Stone Love” and “Brand New Day,” showcasing their unique blend of reggae and rock. They closed their performance with the powerful “Warning,” from their 2019 album Local Motion.

    Streetlight Manifesto: Before Pepper took the stage, Streetlight Manifesto delivered a memorable performance, opening with “Watch It Crash.” They followed with “A Better Place, A Better Time,” captivating the audience with their energy. The band wrapped up their set with “Here’s to Life,” leaving a lasting impression with their blend of ska and punk.

    Bandshell – Five Town College Stage

    Badfish and Tropidelic: Both bands added to the day’s vibrant atmosphere. Badfish, known for their tribute to Sublime, and Tropidelic, with their funky, high-energy style, kept the crowd dancing and singing along throughout their sets.

    The Bandshell – Five Town College Stage featured a diverse lineup of bands that kept the reggae vibes flowing all day long.

    Samsara kicked off the performances, followed by the smooth sounds of Aqua Cherry. Nonstop to Cairo brought their high-energy mix of ska and hip-hop, keeping the crowd on their feet. Oogee Wawa closed out the stage with their unique blend of reggae, rock, and hip-hop, creating a perfect end to the day’s performances.

    Jambalaya Stage

    The Jambalaya Stage was a hub of reggae and rock fusion, showcasing both local and up-and-coming talent.

    IRIEspect started the day with their authentic reggae sound, followed by the Chris Ruben Band, who brought a mix of rock and reggae influences. Enrose and Roots Foundation continued the reggae vibes, with Roots Foundation delivering a standout performance. Formed in 2008 by bassist Corey Browd, this Long Island-based band pays homage to the roots style of reggae, drawing inspiration from legends like Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Steel Pulse, and Peter Tosh. The day on this stage concluded with the dynamic sounds of Half Breeds.

    A Day of Unity and Celebration

    The reggae-themed day at the Great South Bay Music Festival was a testament to the unifying power of music. With a lineup that honored the roots of reggae while embracing its modern evolutions, festival-goers experienced a day of peace, love, and rhythmic bliss. As the sun set over Shorefront Park, the sounds of reggae continued to echo, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next day of this incredible festival.

    Pepper Setlist: Bring Me Along. Rent, Things That You Love, Nice Time, Stormtrooper, Your Face, B.O.O.T., Tradewinds, Too Much, Freeze, Drum Solo, Stone Love, Seven Weeks, Crazy Love, Green Hell, Brand New Day, No Control, Warning

    Streetlight Manifesto Setlist: Watch it Crash, A Moment of Silence, A Moment of Violence, A Better Place, a Better Time, Intro: This Is a Call to Arms, Here’s to Life

    Badfish Setlist: Smoke Two Joints, Caress Me Down, Garden Grove, We’re Only Gonna Die, Waiting for My Ruca, Feel Like That, Get Ready, Badfish, Doin’ Time, My Girl, Pawn Shop, Changes, Regulate, Santeria, The Final Countdown, Date Rape, What I Got