Category: Photo Gallery

Look Inside Dopapod’s Trapper Keeper at The Williams Center

Funky, jam band powerhouse Dopapod stopped in The Williams Center in Rutherford, NJ on Thursday, March 28. The Jungle Jazz Initiative opened up the night, offering a groovy and entertaining set, fitting in well with Dopapod’s sound.

Dopapod’s first set was only 4 songs, which was full of jams and featured a good representation of their career with newer and older songs. It started out with a danceable “Live In the Dream” followed by a Dopapod classic “Turnin’ Knobs” which featured the electronic, synth heavy peaks. Another catchy classic closed up the set, “Braindead”. The chorus is still ringing in my head.

The band opened up the second set with a very distinguishable “Trapper Keeper”. This was followed by an unexpected “No Quarter” played with ferocity. The rest of the set included newer and older songs that flowed together incredibly well. And suddenly a Dead cover appeared, Dopapod’s homage “Smertha” was played to close up the set.

The band encored with “Landmines”. Dopapod’s sound is unique and is distinguishable in a scene that can at times be homogenous. Their unique style provides a refreshing experience and will continue to gather fans.

Dopapod – The Williams Center for the Arts, Rutherford, NJ – Thursday, March 28, 2024

Set 1: Live in The Dream, Turninâ Knobs, Man or Machine, Braindead
Set 2: Trapper Keeper, No Quarter, Ebb and Flow, My Elephant Vs. Your Elephant, Peter Banning, Sonic, 2 Somebodies, We Are Not Alone, Shmertha
Encore: Landmines

April 1, 2024
Ace Frehley And His “Rock Soldiers” Lay Rock and Roll Siege Upon Sony Hall

New York City has been given many nicknames like “the city so nice, they named it twice,” as well as “The Big Apple.” The city at any given moment can hold multiple events at one time. Friday, March. 28 saw country star Zach Bryan play at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn while President Biden hosted a fundraiser which featured former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. The fundraiser was only steps away from where former KISS guitarist, Ace Frehley played as he filled up Sony Hall just a month after his newest release, 10,000 Volts.

Frehley has announced 15 dates to his itinerary for 2024. Three of those dates, including the Sony Hall show, are in New York. Frehley is playing at the Rome Capitol Theatre on April. 12 as well as the River Theatre in North Tonawanda on Aug. 21. These tour dates are also in support of his newest release which has been praised very highly by the music community.

Before the rock and roll siege of “The Spaceman,” the New York City natives known as Kore Rozzik warmed up the eager crowd. Kore Rozzik played seven songs and did their part well at getting the crowd hyped up for classic Kiss and original tunes from Frehley. Kore Rozzik, while a harder style of rock music than Frehley powered through technical difficulties and wonky mic feedback to deliver their brand of metal and hard rock. The fans who knew the band loved them and screamed wildly. It took a few songs for the band to win over fans that weren’t so familiar with them. Once lead singer Kore Rozzik graced the stage in different stage clothes for multiple songs and sprayed the audience with water after their final song, “Spellbound,” the band made multiple fans and left a lasting impression on the rowdy crowd.

Joining Rozzik on stage were Andrei Patorski and Alex Devious on guitars, Matias Sanes on bass and Crow Starbird on the drums.

As the house lights dimmed and one of Frehley’s instrumentals blasted of the speakers, a sudden surge rushed from the back of the general admission audience and pushed the crowd closer to the stage. With what seemed like one quick motion, Frehley and his band blasted into “Shock Me,” off Kiss’ 1977 record, Love Gun. Frehley played 14 total songs that took fans through memory lane of his Kiss days while also sprinkling in a few solo songs including the title track to his newest release. Frehley sported a sparkly jacket that draped over his NASA t-shirt to start the first few songs of the night. Dawning classic Rayban aviators and his classic Les Paul guitar, it was clear that Frehley and the rest of his band were indeed “back in the New York Groove.”

Accompanying Frehley on stage was bassist Ryan Cook, guitarist Jeremy Asbrock and drummer Scot Coogan. This was the same band that played on his record in addition to touring with Frehley across the United States recently.

Like Kore Rozzik, the Frehley band was not only battling the bad feedback from their speakers but at one point in between the band’s rendition of “Rip It Out,” and “Detroit Rock City,” Cook’s bass strap broke and had to be taped back together for the remainder of the show. But, with a calm smile, Cook took the minor setback like a true professional and continued to wave and point into the crowd of fans.

Unlike the last show that Frehley played at the Paramount Hudson Valley back in October, multiple fans put on his classic face paint and rushed to the front of the stage before the band’s set. The entire crowd, which consisted of all ages never left their spot in the general admission and continued to clap, throw up the rock horns and raise their fists to the loud wall of sound in front of them. If you closed your eyes and pictured what a Kiss concert sounded like in the mid-1970s’ when the band was at the height of their powers, without a doubt, it would have sounded something very close to last night’s show.

In classic Frehley showmanship, for the band’s rendition of “New York Groove,” Frehley brought out his classic guitar that lights up. When the special Les Paul guitar made its appearance, the crowd went crazy as they knew exactly what song was coming up. At the beginning note of every song, the crowd gave the band a thunderous cheer. The cheering was so loud at one point that it seemed like the roof was going to cave in.

It was extremely impressive to hear the band play their new material from the aforementioned 10,000 Volts. Despite the band only playing the title track, it was neat to hear the band acknowledge their new record. Throughout the show, fans were yelling for the band to play some of their favorite tunes from the brand-new record. Regardless of Frehley being 72 years old, he still had his skill from the ‘70s on guitar while also having his signature voice on lead vocals.

At the end of the show, when the doors were flung open and the cool New York air filled up the downstairs theater, there was not one unhappy fan in the venue. With Kiss now being retired and the band not playing, Frehley is one of two members still out on the road. With that being said, fans were extremely happy to have their night filled with Kiss tunes and seeing the one and only Spaceman

Kore Rozzik Setlist: Welcome To Rock Hell, I Am Your Savior, Can’t Stop Won’t Stop, Vengeance Overdrive, Mistress, Guilty As Charged, Spellbound

Ace Frehley Setlist: Shock Me, Rocket Ride, 10,000 Volts, Rock Soldiers, Love Gun, Parasite, New York Groove, Rip It Out, Detriot Rock City, Cold Gin, Strange Ways, Shout It Out Loud, Deuce, Rock And Roll All Nite

March 31, 2024
In Focus: Mong Tong at No Fun in Troy

Tuesday nights are usually reserved for a simple McDonalds dinner after I sit through an hour of my daughter’s gymnastics class. This past Tuesday I decided to add the Mong Tong show at No Fun in Troy to the lineup of Tuesday’s to-do list. This turned out to be a welcome addition as I watched 2 men get on the stage, do a quick sound check, and then blindfold themselves before performing a very unique brand of Asian-infused Psychedelic sound.

Mong Tong is a 2 man instrumental group consisting of Taiwanese brothers Hom Yu and Jim Chi and are no strangers to the United States. They’ve performed multiple times in the South By Southwest festivals and have gathered a decent following. This particular appearance at NoFun is the 7th stop of their 9 location US tour with their 9th and final stop being at TV Eye in New York City on March 29th. This tour celebrates their new EP 銘 Epigraphy which dropped on March 8th.

Blindfolded musicians performing music is something everyone should see at least once in their lives. Dressed simply in black pants, white shirts, and red blindfolds, and using an arsenal of electric and electronic gear, the 2 brothers create intricate and complex arrangements that capture the essence of kung-fu movies mixed with punchy beats and well thought out melodies. Staccato guitar arpeggios dance over conga laden drum lines. Traditional Asian instruments and unidentifiable synth sounds mash together in a strange 70s Psychedelic rock jam. All accentuated by the smooth and groovy bass that anyone could get next to.

The duo takes you on a trip though soundscapes that vary from ethereal to hectic to confusing to serene and you’re not sure where its going next. The energy is positive and contagious and while some people are dancing, others are taking in the light show, and others are still amazed at the blindfolded-ness of it all, none are missing out on this one-of-a-kind experience.

With polyrhythmic beats and sampled and non-sampled traditional Chinese instruments it’s safe to say that Mong Tong has few competitors. Since I’m struggling to find a similar band to compare them to I’ll just say I’d classify Mong Tong as Psychedelic Asian Electro-Funk Trip-Hop with a dash of Techno. They’re continuing their tour of the US with shows at the Columbus Theater in Providence, RI on March 28th and at TV Eve in New York City on March 29th. Tuesday to-do lists aren’t the same any more.

March 30, 2024
HUNNY Brings the Garage to Albany

On Wednesday March 20, California-based HUNNY took the stage at Empire Live in Albany, supporting Mom Jeans alongside Summer Salt. With a dynamic setlist pulling from the band’s near-decade long discography as well as their most recent album, new planet heaven, HUNNY put on a show that exemplified their long-standing and ever-growing presence in the alternative scene.

HUNNY hails from Northern California, a product of the indie rock scene that flourished in the area in the 2010s. They are the first of two bands supporting fellow California-based Mom Jeans on their US tour; several other bands, including Free Throw and Just Friends, are also set to join for select dates.

This was HUNNY’s second visit to Albany, but their music is well known and well liked within the prominent shoegaze and post-punk scenes in the Hudson Valley, making them a perfect fit to raise the energy for a mid-week show.

The group opened the show with “JFK,” the lead song off of their 2022 album Homesick. Within seconds of the grungy, overdriven guitar meeting the crowd’s wall of sound, everyone was moving. The band’s own energy on stage is tenable from the photo pit, their own jumps and erratic movements matching their audience’s. The band continued to pull the rest of their setlist from 2022’s Homesick, as well as new planet heaven and their mid-2010s hits, such as “Televised,” and their closer, “Vowels (And The Importance of Being Me).” By the end of their set, the house was full, and the bar was open- all eyes and ears were on HUNNY, and the crowd couldn’t help but move.

As I was headed out of the venue, I happened to overhear a Mom Jeans fan mentioning the first opener, praising the group’s ability to appeal to potential fans- the last thing I hear her say is, “I don’t know, but they got me jumping!”

March 30, 2024
In Focus: Samantha Fish Brings Bulletproof Tour to Westcott Theater in Syracuse

On an otherwise cold and snowy day, things heated up quickly inside the Westcott Theater on Saturday, as blues rock icon Samantha Fish brought her Bulletproof Tour to Syracuse, with JD Simo served up as the opening act this evening.

Fish, 35, has been a major player on the modern blues-rock scene since launching on to the circuit in 2009. The Kansas City native has become a favorite in the Central New York area, headlining several shows in the area over the last fifteen years. Fish most-notably served as direct support for Buddy Guy at the 2023 New York State Blues Festival, which took place in Syracuse last summer. (Get the scoop on the 2024 lineup here!)

The evening started with a set by blues guitarist, JD Simo, who gifted the early arriving crowd to a set that showcased his diverse style. Showcasing himself as more than just dabbling in blues rock, Simo’s 40-minute set also displayed elements of jazz and psychedelic rock, while performing tracks such as “Mortgage My Soul” off of his 2022 release Songs From the House of Grease.

After a brief set change over, Samantha Fish took to the stage. Armed with her signature cigar-box guitar and flanked by her bandmates, Fish launched in to the high energy “Bulletproof”. Fish paced the stage and took turns showcasing her guitar skills for those on each side of the theater. “The jewelry is coming off!” Fish proclaimed early in the set, hinting to the audience there was much more guitar prowess to come this evening.

Fish dazzled the crowd with her diverse musical catalog. Late in the set, Fish donned an acoustic guitar for three songs (two of which featured Fish on stage, solo). Certainly there are instances in the concert world where this would remove the energy from the venue, however this was not the case on this evening. Fish maintained captive hold of the audience all the while.

After a near 90-minute set, Fish and her bandmates would return to the stage with opener JD Simo. “Let’s party for one more song” Fish would announce, before launching in to “Bitch on the Run”. Fish and Simo would trade guitar solos through out the track while the packed theater took their last opportunity to dance about. Soon the show would be over and the packed theater would spill back out in to the cold Syracuse air.

March 27, 2024
Fall Out Boy brings “So Much for (2our) Dust” Tour to MVP Arena

On Sunday, March 24, Fall Out Boy’s “So Much for (2our) Dust” tour stopped at MVP Arena in Albany. The line up consisted of Games We Play, Hot Mulligan, Jimmy Eat World, and Fall Out Boy.

Games We Play kicked off the evening with a high energy performance of “Get a Job.” They played a total of 4 songs during their 30-minute set. Hot Mulligan was up next with their 9-song set which included songs such as “Drink Milk and Run,” “OG Blue Sky” and “Bckyrd.”

Jimmy Eat World promptly took to the stage and amped up the crowd playing their song “A Praise Chorus.” Putting on a fantastic and energetic set, Jimmy Eat World had the crowd engaged. They played many well-known songs such as “Sweetness,” “Bleed American,” “Big Casino,” and “Pain.” They closed out their set with “The Middle” which had everyone singing along.

At 9:10pm, Fall Out Boy took to the stage, starting with song “Love from the Other Side,” transitioning to an incredible performance of “The Phoenix” and, “Sugar, We’re Goin’ Down.” The pyrotechnics and loud booms during their 1st three songs elevated the energy in the arena to a new level. The visual effects and props used throughout the show added to that excitement.

Performing new songs from their latest album “So Much (for) Stardust” as well as many hits from earlier albums such as “Uma Thurman,” “Dance, Dance,” “Thnks for Th Mmrs,” and “Centuries.” The crowd was also treated to a piano medley.

This show was nothing short of amazing. Each band delivered high-energy performances, solid vocals, and nonstop action throughout the evening.

Fall Out Boy Setlist: Love from the Other Side, The Phoenix, Sugar, We’re Goin’ Down, Uma Thurman, G.I.N.A.S.F.S, Reinventing the Wheel to Run Myself Over, Grand Theft Autumn/Where is Your Boy, Calm Before the Storm, This Ain’t a Scene, It’s An Arms Race, Disloyal Order of Water Buffaloes, Heaven, Iowa, Bang the Doldrums, Headfirst Slide Into Cooperstown on a Bad Bet, Fake out, The Kintsugi Kid (Ten years)(Partial, Piano Medley), What a Time to be Alive (Partial, Piano Medley), Don’t Stop Me Now (Queen Cover)(Partial, Piano Medley), So Much (for) Stardust, Baby Annihilation ( with “20 Dollar Nose Bleed” spoken word snippet), Song 2 (Blur Cover), Dance, Dance, Hold Me Like a Grudge, I Am My Own Muse (Magic 8-Ball Song, Tour Debut), My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up), Thnks fr Th Mmrs, Centuries, Saturday.

Fall Out Boy “So Much for (2our) Dust” Tour Dates:

3/26: Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, MI

3/27: PPG Paints Arena – Pittsburg, PA

3/29: Schottenstein Center – Columbus, OH

3/30: Rupp Arena – Lexington, KY

3/31: Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN

4/2: Fiserv Forum – Milwaukee, WI

4/3: Wells Fargo Arena – Des Moines, IA

4/5 – CHI Health Center Arena – Omaha, NE

4/6: Target Center – Minneapolis, MN

March 27, 2024
Matt Maltese Wows the Crowd at Irving Plaza

On Friday, March 22, UK-born singer-songwriter Matt Maltese took the stage at Irving Plaza for his sold-out show as part of his “Touring Just to Tour” NY run. The beautiful stage truly set the vibe of the concert—the lights, the vines, the street lamps—they all created a cozy and whimsical experience that complemented Matt’s soft and buttery vocals.

Matt Maltese — Photographed by Sarah Hyun

Matt Maltese got his start with music in Reading, Berkshire, where as a young kid he took a particular interest in songwriting. Drawing inspiration from the blues and jazz genres, Maltese wrote about heartbreak, falling in love, and the world ending—in a way like no other modern artist. His raw, poetic, and deeply heartfelt lyrics revealed his experiences navigating adolescence and adulthood. Maltese is halfway through his American leg of tour, where he has twelve more dates at venues in Massachusetts to California. He previously played at the Governors Ball Music Festival.

Matt Maltese — Photographed by Sarah Hyun

Prior to Matt’s entrance onto the stage, opener The Army, The Navy, put on a beautiful acoustic show for the crowd of twelve hundred. The pre-show playlist included jazzy background music that excited concertgoers swayed back and forth to. Upon Matt’s entrance, the crowd screamed in excitement. One fan yelled, “Matt you’re so British!,” where he responded with, “Yes, I am very British.”

Matt Maltese — Photographed by Sarah Hyun

During his opening song, “You Deserve an Oscar,” Maltese kept impressive eye contact with the audience as he belted sincere lyrics and beautifully played his piano. Halfway through the show, he played a game with the audience where he asked which out of three statements about his bassist, Jamien, was true—1. He fed his friend’s pet koi fish chips and chili oil, causing them to die; 2. He pretended to be a waiter at a random restaurant in order to get a woman’s number; and 3. He was fired from his ice cream job for using a single spoon to try every flavor there. He later revealed that all three were true.

Jamien Randall Pepper (right) and Madden Klass (left) — Photographed by Sarah Hyun

Towards the end of the show, he played his most well-known song, “As the World Caves In,” singing lyrics like “And here is it, our final night alive / And as the earth runs to the ground / Oh girl it’s you that I lie with / As the atom bomb locks in / Yes it’s you I welcome death with.” Anyone who has listened to Matt Maltese would not deny his true talent in crafting lyrics and melodies.

Matt ended the night with an encore, singing “Strange Time” and “Everyone Adores You (At Least I Do).” Although Matt does not have any New York dates left for this tour, he will likely return during his next run.

Matt Maltese – Irving Plaza – March 22, 2024

Setlist: You Deserve an Oscar, Mother, Irony Would Have It, Curl Up and Die, Hello Black Dog, Little Person, Mystery, Madhouse / Jupiter, Krystal, Krakow, Driving Just to Drive, The Earth is a Very Small Dot, Kiss Me (Sixpence None the Richer Cover), Rom-Com Gone Wrong, Nightclub Love, As the World Caves In / Intolewd

Encore: Strange Time, Everyone Adores You (At Least I Do)

March 26, 2024
In Focus: Tony Trischka Celebrates Earl Scruggs at The Egg

Amid a winter storm that ushered in spring, banjo virtuoso and father of modern bluegrass, Tony Trischka, performed to a crowd of brave travelers in The Egg’s Swyer Theater on Saturday, March 23.

Roughly 30 fans braved the elements to see Trischka’s tribute to Earl Scruggs, the legendary three-finger banjoist, titled EarlJam. Featuring Michael Daves (vocals, guitar) Jared Engel (bass) and Brittany Haas (fiddle), the show traced the story of Scruggs from his childhood to his later years.

Celebrating this tour, Trischka said, “Earl is my North Star, a lifetime pathway. And I’m not alone. Through his music, this shy kid from Flint Hill, North Carolina went on to enrich countless thousands of lives. At the age of 13, when I first heard 16 notes of Scruggs style banjo playing, I put down my folk guitar and mercilessly pestered my parents to buy me a banjo. Once in my hands, that 5-string became my obsession and has been for close to 60 years.”

“The depth of his genius becomes ever more apparent when I transcribe his solos, which I’ve been doing my entire musical life and with renewed vigor. Discovering new twists and turns in his playing is pure joy and in fact the inspiration for this tribute show.”
Tony Trischka on Earl Scruggs

The show was full of Scruggs songs, including popular fare “Salty Dog,” “Foggy Mountain Breakdown,” and the seminal TV show theme, “The Ballad of Jed Clampett,” as well as covers mixed in, ranging from Bob Dylan to Grateful Dead and The Band.

Trischka, a Syracuse native, is a not only a banjo innovator, but he is also an educator, influencing everyone from Béla Fleck to Steve Martin.

A treat for fans of new era bluegrass enjoyed “Brown’s Ferry Blues,” the first track off Trischka’s upcoming album, recently recorded with Billy Strings.

While it was a cold, miserable night of weather outside, Trischka and the music of Earl Scruggs kept it memorable inside for the small crowd of dedicated fans, paying them a nod during “Mama Don’t ‘Low” by changing the lyrics to “Mama don’t ‘low no snow driving ’round here.”

Tony Trischka’s EarlJam – The Egg, Swyer Theater – Saturday, March 23, 2024

Setlist: Kentucky Bullfight, Reuben, Heavy Traffic Ahead, Salty Dog, Foggy Mountain Breakdown, Six White Horses, Earl’s Breakdown, Martha White Theme, Fiddle and Banjo, Ballad of Jed Clampett, Can’t Stop me from Dreaming, Mama Don’t ‘Low, Rainy Day Women #12 and 35, Brown’s Ferry Blues, Liza Jane, Casey Jones, Chinese Breakdown, Here Comes the Bride, Gentle on My Mind, You’ve Got to Die, Farewell Blues, Fox Chase

Encore: Say Goodbye, Cripple Creek

March 26, 2024
Stephen Schwartz’s LIMEHOF Induction: A Celebration of Musical Majesty

On March 23, 2024, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomed one of its own, the illustrious composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, with an induction ceremony that will be remembered for years to come.

Held at the LIMEHOF in Stony Brook, this evening was a testament to Schwartz’s immense contributions to the world of music and theater, as well as his profound influence on countless artists.

Stephen Schwartz

Hosted by the legendary Paul Shaffer and directed by Paul Kreppel, the event was a star-studded affair, filled with heartfelt tributes, captivating performances, and a palpable sense of admiration for the honoree. From the opening remarks to the final curtain call, the evening was a fitting tribute to a man whose talent knows no bounds.

Before the ceremony began, Paul Shaffer, in a conversation with the press, eloquently expressed his admiration for Stephen Schwartz. Reflecting on their collaboration over the years, Shaffer praised Schwartz’s ability to immerse himself in characters when composing music, citing his magical touch and profound impact on Shaffer’s career. He emphasized Schwartz’s willingness to share his knowledge and mentorship, underscoring the importance of talent and dedication in the industry.

Paul Shaffer

As the show commenced, Shaffer took the stage to introduce the house band and Hall of Fame director Ernie Canadea. The atmosphere was electric as the audience prepared for an unforgettable evening. Performances of iconic songs from Schwartz’s repertoire, including “Prepare Ye!” from Godspell and “Magic To Do” from Pippin, showcased the timeless appeal of his music and the versatility of his compositions.

The house band, comprised of seasoned musicians, added a layer of magic to the performances. Doug Quinn, known for his work with the Quinn Brothers, graced the stage on guitar, alongside Steve Mayness on bass and Rick Shutter on drums. Their impeccable musicianship complemented the vocal performances, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

One of the evening’s highlights came when Stephen Reinhardt took the stage to share his personal story of how Schwartz changed the trajectory of his life. With heartfelt gratitude, Reinhardt recounted how Schwartz’s mentorship and belief in his talent opened doors and paved the way for his success in the industry. His heartfelt words resonated with everyone in attendance, underscoring the profound impact Schwartz has had on countless lives.

Teal Wicks

As the night progressed, the stage was graced by an array of talented performers, each paying homage to Schwartz with their stirring renditions of his most beloved songs. DeMarius R. Copes mesmerized the audience with his rendition of “Magic To Do” from Pippin, while Teal Wicks captivated hearts with her performance of “Wizard and I” from Wicked. Carrie St. Louis and Max Grossman delivered a show-stopping rendition of “Popular” from Wicked, showcasing their vocal prowess and stage presence.

Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as Paul Shaffer had the honor of inducting Stephen Schwartz into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF). With heartfelt words, Shaffer presented Schwartz with the prestigious award, symbolizing the culmination of a lifetime of achievements.

Paul Shaffer

In his acceptance speech, Schwartz expressed his gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the significance of being recognized by his hometown. He thanked his friends and collaborators for their unwavering support and paid tribute to the performers who had brought his music to life throughout the evening.

As the final notes of “Day By Day” from Godspell filled the air, there was a sense of collective joy and appreciation for the man whose music had touched the hearts of millions. The induction of Stephen Schwartz into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame was not just a celebration of one man’s talent but a testament to the power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all.

Musical Numbers: Prepare Ye! (Godspell) performed by Paul Shaffer, Rick Shutter, Steve Manes and Doug Quinn, Magic To Do (Pippin) performed by DeMarius R. Copes, Corner Of The Sky (Pippin) performed by Sam Simahk, Bless The Lord (Godspell) performed by Alysia Velez, West End Avenue (The Magic Show) performed by Dale Soules, All Good Gifts (Godspell) performed by Demarius R. Copes, Colors of the Wind (Pocahontas) performed by Alysia Velez, Kevin Newton, and Peter DelGrosso, Wizard and I (Wicked) performed by Teal Wicks and Max Grossman, Popular (Wicked) performed by Carrie St. Louis and Max Grossman, For Good (Wicked) Performed by Carrie St. Louis, Teal Wicks and Max Grossman.

March 26, 2024
In Focus: Gary Clark Jr. Performs Soho Sessions, Raising Funds for Music Will

On Tuesday, March 19, Gary Clark Jr. performed at The Soho Sessions, an exclusive music-driven community known for curating exceptional live experiences in NYC. Clark Jr. was celebrating the release of his new album released this week, titled JPEG RAW.

In attendance were Actor Richard Kind, Jane Rose, Promoter Peter Shapiro, Elle Fanning, Fran DeFeo, David Fricke, Gus Wenner, Steve Schirripa among others. photo by Kim Mancuso Photography.

In addition to celebrating Clark’s new album, this edition of The Soho Sessions also celebrated music through raising awareness and funds for Music Will, the organization that has provided music teacher training, curriculum, and instruments to over 6,000 schools across all 50 states – impacting over 1.6 million students to date.

photo by Kim Mancuso Photography.

The nonprofit strives to reach a million more students by 2027 while making music education accessible to all students regardless of their socio-economic circumstances. Music Will runs the largest nonprofit music program in the U.S. public school system.

Music Will believes that music education is a right, not a privilege, and it should reflect the cultures of the students it serves. That’s why, for two decades now, their programs have taught students such popular American genres as rock, pop, R&B, Latin, rap and country—alongside styles already taught in schools, such as classical and jazz.

Chief Relationship Officer, Janice Polizzotto (right) pictured sitting with Soho Sessions executives. photo by Kim Mancuso Photography.

Additionally, more than 70 colleges and universities now use their approach to music education majors. Several state departments of education have partnered with Music Will to grow music education in the schools they serve. Its mission of transforming lives by transforming music education has grown into a movement.

photo by Kim Mancuso Photography.

Stream Gary Clark Jr.’s new album JPEG RAW below.

March 24, 2024