Category: Photo Gallery

Exploring Alice Coltrane’s Spiritual and Musical Legacy: A First Listen Event for “Live at Carnegie Hall”

On March 20, history and music intertwined at the Resnick Education Wing at Carnegie Hall, where an exclusive first listen event was held for Alice Coltrane’s Live at Carnegie Hall album. This event marked the culmination of years of anticipation for fans worldwide, as the concert, originally performed in 1971, was finally set for release on March 22, under the title Alice Coltrane – The Carnegie Hall Concert.

Alice Coltrane, a luminary in the jazz world and a spiritual seeker, took the stage at Carnegie Hall for a special gala benefiting the Integral Yoga Institute. Backed by an ensemble of renowned musicians, including Pharoah Sanders, Archie Shepp, Jimmy Garrison, and Cecil McBee, among others, Alice delivered a transcendent performance that captured the essence of her musical and spiritual journey.

The evening began with a captivating listen to the album, transporting listeners back to that pivotal moment in 1971 when Alice Coltrane graced the stage at Carnegie Hall. The audience was then treated to a thought-provoking panel discussion hosted by Marcus J. Moore, featuring esteemed guests Michelle Coltrane, Brandee Younger, and Cecil McBee.

The panel discussion delved into various aspects of Alice Coltrane’s music and legacy, offering insights into her creative process, spiritual journey, and the impact of her music on contemporary artists. Throughout the conversation, panelists shared personal anecdotes, reflections, and interpretations of Alice’s music, providing a deeper understanding of her artistry and influence.

One of the key themes that emerged from the discussion was the improvisational nature of Alice Coltrane’s music. Cecil McBee, reflecting on his experience playing alongside her, highlighted the freedom and spontaneity she encouraged in her band members. He emphasized that Alice created an environment where musicians could express themselves authentically, without constraints or preconceived notions.

Michelle Coltrane, drawing from her childhood memories, spoke eloquently about her mother’s musical legacy and spiritual evolution. She described Alice’s transition from grief to spiritual awakening following the death of John Coltrane, her husband. Michelle emphasized the profound impact of Alice’s music on her own artistic journey, citing instances where her mother’s influence could be heard in her compositions.

Brandee Younger, a contemporary harpist and composer, shared her perspective on Alice Coltrane’s influence on her own work. She discussed how Alice’s music transcended boundaries, incorporating elements of jazz, gospel, Indian classical music, and world music to create a unique and transformative listening experience. Brandee expressed admiration for Alice’s fearless experimentation and dedication to spiritual exploration.

The panelists also explored the spiritual dimensions of Alice Coltrane’s music, highlighting her deep connection to Indian spirituality and her role as a spiritual leader. They discussed how her music served as a conduit for spiritual expression, offering solace, inspiration, and transcendence to listeners around the world.

As the event concluded, it became evident that Alice Coltrane’s legacy extends far beyond the confines of a concert hall or recording studio. Her music continues to resonate with audiences of all generations, inspiring artists, musicians, and spiritual seekers alike. Through her pioneering spirit, unwavering dedication to her craft, and profound spirituality, Alice Coltrane left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond.

March 22, 2024
Waterparks: Live from MGM Music Hall

Waterparks is a dynamic, genre bending trio hailing from Houston, Texas, consisting of charismatic frontman Awsten Knight, guitarist Geoff Wigington, and drummer Otto Wood. With their high-energy stage presence and genre-defying sound, Waterparks has become a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene.

Waterparks brought their electrifying energy and infectious enthusiasm to the MGM Music Hall at Fenway Park as part of “The Sneaking out of Heaven Tour,” with fans lined up around the venue as early as 3 AM, these fans left in awe with a high-octane performance and unforgettable moments.

From the moment they stepped onstage, frontman Awsten Knight and his bandmates captivated the crowd with their signature blend of pop-rock anthems and irresistible hooks. The atmosphere was electric as fans sang along to every word, their voices blending harmoniously with the band’s infectious melodies.

Throughout the night, Waterparks delivered one memorable moment after another, from Awsten’s impromptu phone call to a fan’s boss, quitting their job on their behalf, to the spirited chants of “fuck these kids” and “support the moms.” Awsten’s playful banter and charismatic stage presence kept the energy levels high, while guitarist Geoff whirlwind performance earned him the endearing nickname “Hurricane Geoff.”

The band’s setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites and new hits, with standout moments including fans making Awsten wear a gifted shirt that said “I F*ck Fish”, followed up by their hit “Fuck About It” resulting in a hilarious exchange between Awsten and Otto. Awsten’s solo piano performance on the B stage showcased his versatility as a musician, while his humorous attempt to coax crew member Lucas into an Ed Sheeran cover provided a lighthearted moment of fun.

As the night came to a close, Waterparks left the crowd wanting more with an electrifying encore performance of “Turbulent” and “Real Super Dark” solidifying their status as one of the most exciting acts in modern alternative music. With their infectious energy and undeniable talent, Waterparks proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Setlist: Watch What Happens Next, Blonde, Greatest Hits Medley (Fuzzy / Violet! / American Graffiti / The Secret Life of Me / Just Kidding / See You in the Future / Lowkey As Hell), Why Can’t I [Liz Phair cover], Stupid for You, You’d Be Paranoid Too (If Everyone Was Out to Get You), SOULSUCKER, SNEAKING OUT OF HEAVEN, Magnetic, RITUAL, SELF-SABOTAGE, BRAINWASHED, FUCK ABOUT IT, High Definition, Snow Globe, Crying Over It All, 21 Questions, I Miss Having Sex but at Least I Don’t Wanna Die Anymore, FUNERAL GREY

Encore: Numb, Turbulent, REAL SUPER DARK

March 20, 2024
The Ghost Club Rock Out at Elsewhere

The Ghost Club’s concert at Elsewhere, as part of “The King Whatever Tour,” was a riveting display of indie rock energy and resilience. Led by the enigmatic frontman Domenic Dunegan, the five-piece band delivered a performance that was as emotionally charged as it was musically compelling.

Despite facing a momentary setback when Domenic accidentally hit his head while standing up on the bar, he soldiered on with unwavering determination, embodying the band’s ethos of perseverance against the odds.

From the moment they took the stage, The Ghost Club commanded attention with their incisive songwriting and sharp commentary on themes of masculinity, self-reflection, and resilience. Hits like “Creature of the Shadows” and “I Feel Fine” had the crowd entranced, while live debuts of “It’s Your Call” and “I’m Sold” showcased the band’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.

A defining moment of the evening came during their cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” where Domenic’s electrifying stage presence and raw emotion electrified the audience. Despite his injury, he continued to deliver a mesmerizing performance, captivating the crowd with every lyric and melody.

As the night progressed, The Ghost Club treated fans to a string of live debuts, including the poignant “If I Fell (Don’t Wait Here for Me)” and the anthemic title track “King Whatever.” Closing out the set with the haunting ballad “Don’t Let Go,” Domenic and the band left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the indie rock scene.

Overall, The Ghost Club’s performance at Elsewhere was a testament to their resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to their craft. Despite facing challenges along the way, they delivered a show that was both powerful and unforgettable, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next performance.

Stay tuned for their upcoming album “King Whatever” set to release ahead of this summer!

Setlist: Creature of the Shadows, All I Know, It’s Your Call (Live Debut), I’m Sold (Live Debut), I Feel Fine, War Pigs (Black Sabbath cover), Sucker, Two Steps Ahead, If I Fell (Don’t Wait Here for Me) (Live Debut), Hate Me Too, King Whatever(Live Debut), Same Graves, Don’t Let Go

March 19, 2024
Bar Italia Brings Buzz to NYC for Two Nights on Path to Coachella Debut

Bar Italia made their highly anticipated return to NYC with a cigarette-tinged concert at Warsaw in Brooklyn on March 15. Touring with their new album, The Twits, and making their way across the US to their Coachella debut, the band gave one of their best performances to date. The band entered the stage cast in warm, low-key lighting to an ecstatic crowd and filled the room with guitar buzz and imagery-filled lyrics.

The British shoegaze/post-punk trio, signed to Matador Records, includes Sam Fenton and Jezmi Fehmi of Double Virgo and singer-songwriter Nina Cristante. They formed in 2020 to instant recognition but stayed away from the press until late last year, even keeping their names hidden from fans. This garnered them a mysterious image that they are now attempting to shed. They also added a new drummer, Liam Toon, just days before the show.

The band has garnered a strong following in New York after making two trips from the UK last year. For an international band of their size, they have made a particular effort to play in NYC, and it has paid off for them, as Friday’s show was more than packed with eager fans. Now they’re off to continue across the US, eventually making stops on the West Coast, including two days at Coachella.

Opening for them was Scarlet Rae, a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter who did a great job of setting the tone for the show and got a lively reaction from the crowd.

It’s a feat how Bar Italia can get a crowd moving and cheering without almost any audience interaction. They uttered about 10 words between songs the entire show, but the audience was there for the music, and the music was electric. That’s not to say the band was closed off. They were full of smiles the whole night and didn’t hold back, showing a lot of emotion on stage.

The interaction between the trio’s vocals formed a texture that cannot be compared to any other act. Sam Fenton and Jezmi Fehmi’s distorted guitar riffs reverberated through the venue as they played “My Little Tony,” wallowing in their dramatic vocals before being lifted up by Nina Cristante and her tambourine in the chorus. The song’s lyrics connect deeply, focusing on imagery that conjures small, intimate scenes that convey displeasure for how our generation has learned to socialize.

They capped off the main set with “World’s Greatest Emoter,” a song title referencing an interview in which Liam Payne described actor Will Smith as the “world’s best emoter” after he slapped the comedian Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars. The room was pounding with this song, and it only got more intense as they faked the audience out, ending the song multiple times, only to drop right back in seconds later at twice the volume. This was a highlight for the band’s new drummer, Liam Toon, whose skilled playing helped balance the song’s instrumentation with the song’s dense vocals and guitar.

The crowd was feverish by the time the band said thank you and walked off stage, only to walk back on moments later unceremoniously. The band capitalized on this, playing three of their most popular songs. They capped the concert off with “Skylinny,” which had the entire crowd of 1,100 people chanting, “Run-a-runaway, Run-a-runaway.”

This was the kind of concert that made you stop for a minute after to take in your surroundings and breathe. Hopefully, Coachella brings good things for Bar Italia because we are sure NY would be happy to welcome them back whenever they feel like hopping the pond again.

Bar Italia – Warsaw, Brooklyn – March 15, 2024

Setlist: Friends, my little tony, calm down with me, Real house vibes (desperate house vibes), twist, Jelsy, Brush w Faith, harpee, Nurse!, punkt, glory hunter, my kiss era, Polly Amour, worlds greatest emoter

Encore: Banks, changer, Skylinny

March 18, 2024
In Focus: Disco Biscuits at Empire Live

On Wednesday, March 13, a hungry crowd packed into Empire Live on North Pearl Street for the Disco Biscuits, currently on tour ahead of the release of Revolution in Motion, Part 1, due out on March 29.

The show marked a return to a smaller venue in Albany, instead of the Palace Theatre, where the Philadelphia trance-fusion pioneers have played 7 times, dating back to 2004. The 1,000 capacity Empire Live offered a club feel to the show, an underground vibe where fans of the Biscuits could gather and dance to nearly three and a half hours of live electronic jams. For a night, this was Albany, New York’s hottest club, and even with sightlines what they are, the crowd carried on and enjoyed the mid-week throw down late into the night.

Opening up with “Morph Dusseldorf,” the twists came early with samples of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” dropped into the nascent “Morph” jam, honoring a fan’s birthday request and offering a glimpse of untzgrass, at long last. “Triumph” slipped in next, giving way to 30 glorious minutes of “Save the Robots” leeching into the ending of “Astronaut,” giving way to an inverted version of the fan favorite. A resounding “Suspended in the Air” middle section of “Astronaut” was particularly blissful, while the ending section was peppered by another sample, this time Tone Loc’s “Funky Cold Medina,” with the middle-age crowd nodding at each other upon recognition of the now 35-year old song.

After a standard 30 minute setbreak, the Biscuits returned with “M.E.M.P.H.I.S.,” venturing out into a spacious jam that found its way into the end of “Naeba,” which would be the second inverted song of the night. The slow churn into the song, as well as the stretched out ending were disco bliss, had plenty of room for improv as well as to dance – this was not a coincidance.

A Tractorbeam version (instrumental) of recent debut “Dino Baby” followed and made way to “Another Plan of Attack,” the two songs being the newest songs of the night, following nearly two hours of old school songs. With sampling becoming commonplace this tour, another surprise in the form of “Hella Good” from No Doubt was found in parts of “Another Plan of Attack,” and while this could have been the end of the night, the Biscuits whisked their way into a 36-minute “I-Man” that had twists and turns and the crowd fist pumping along well past midnight.

An encore featuring the recently released “Spaga’s Last Stand” was all that was left in this deep tank of electronica improvisation, where we find the Biscuits at the top of their game.

The Disco Biscuits will be back in New York on March 29 at Webster Hall for the album release show, followed by two nights at Town Ballroom in Buffalo over March 30 and 31.

Stream the full show from Albany here on Nugs.

Setlist via Biscuits Internet Project
Disco Biscuits – Empire Live – Albany, NY – March 13, 2024
Soundcheck: Magellan, Wet
Set 1: Morph Dusseldorf¹, Triumph > Save The Robots > Astronaut^2 3 > Save The Robots
Set 2: M.E.M.P.H.I.S. > Naeba² > Dino Baby⁴ > Another Plan of Attack⁵ > I-Man
Encore: Spaga’s Last Stand
1 with ‘Jolene’ (Dolly Parton) samples
2 inverted
3 with ‘Funky Cold Medina’ (Tone Loc) samples
4 Tractorbeam version (instrumental)
5 with ‘Hella Good’ (No Doubt) teases

March 17, 2024
Offset’s “SET IT OFF” Tour Hits Times Square

On Thursday March 14, Offset took his “SET IT OFF” tour to the Palladium in Times Square for its third stop. The rapper enlisted a strong group of up and coming artists to warm up the crowd before his performance.

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

The first rising talent of the night was YRN Mango Foo, followed by SleazyWorld Go and then Skilla Baby. Skilla took it upon himself to enter the mosh pit and perform most of his set from the crowd. In between songs, Skilla would have the fans chant four simple words: “I will have fun,” until late in his set where he sang a cover of FUN.’s “We Are Young” while in the mosh pit. After the openers, Hot 97’s own Funk Flex took the stage to perform a DJ set. Flex’s song choices and comedic adlibs ensured the crowd was ready for Offset to take the stage.

Skilla Baby at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset opened with a plethora of songs from his new album, specifically: “Say My Grace,” “Fan,” “Broads Day,” “Big Dawg,” and “On the River.” With a live band behind and a set of stairs streaming down the center of the stage, there was never a dull moment. Offset had backup dancers and high energy throughout the entire show.

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset decided to give New York a taste of their own music. He brought out Brooklyn rap group 41 as well as Bronx artist Cash Cobain. 41 and Cash Cobain both brought a great representation of New York rap to the stage.

41 at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

But Offset had one more special guest to round off the night. Near the end of the show, Offset and his DJ were talking back and forth saying, “we still gotta do it for New York,” before, abruptly, the beat to A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s “My Shit” started playing, and a few seconds later, A Boogie himself joined Offset on stage. The Bronx rapper performed “My Shit” and “Drowning” for his hometown crowd, sporting a Yankees cap and a Highbridge chain.

A Boogie Wit da Hoodie at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset ended the night with some of his older classics, “Motorsport,” “Narcos,” “Clout,” “Ric Flair Drip,” and “Bad and Boujee.” Tickets for the rest of the “SET IT OFF” tour are available here.

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset setlist: Say My Grace, Fan, Broad Day, Big Dawg, On the River, Danger, Ghostface Killers, Rap Saved Me, Legacy, No Complaints, Patek Water, 100 Racks, Monday, Hop Out, Skyami, Don’t You Lie, Zeze, Worth It, Fight Night, Call Casting, Last Memory, Motorsport, Narcos, Clout, Ric Flair Drop, Bad n Boujee

Offset (left) and A Boogie Wit da Hoodie (right) at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset Upcoming Tour Dates
Fri Mar 15; Boston, MA; Citizens House of Blues Boston
Sun Mar 17; Toronto, ON; HISTORY
Tue Mar 19; Detroit, MI; The Fillmore Detroit
Wed Mar 20; Grand Rapids, MI; GLC Live at 20 Monroe
Fri Mar 22; Cincinnati, OH; Bogart’s
Sat Mar 23; Chicago, IL; Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
Wed Mar 27; Denver, CO; Fillmore Auditorium
Fri Mar 29; Los Angeles, CA; Hollywood Palladium
Sat Mar 30; San Francisco, CA; The Masonic
Mon Apr 1; Anaheim, CA; House of Blues Anaheim
Wed Apr 3; Phoenix, AZ; The Van Buren
Fri Apr 5; Dallas, TX; South Side Ballroom
Sun Apr 7; Houston, TX; Bayou Music Center

Skilla Baby at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

A Boogie Wit da Hoodie at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

YRN Mango Foo Go at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

YRN Mango Foo Go at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Sleazyworld Go at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

41 at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Sleazyworld Go at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

Offset at Palladium Times Square. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

March 16, 2024
Syracuse Celebrates its Music Scene at 2024 SAMMYs

It was a night of celebration and honor in the Eastwood neighborhood of Syracuse on Friday, March 8, as the 2024 SAMMY Awards took place at the Palace Theater. It was the 31st year of the event, with this year’s rendition awarding winners in 13 different musical categories. The night also honored individuals in four specialty categories, as well as four People’s Choice categories.

The Critics Choice receive the Founder’s Award at the 2024 SAMMYS

Hosted by Syracuse news anchor and devoted local music supporter Tim Fox, the evening kicked off on a somber note. Fox asked the audience to take a moment of silence to honor former SAMMYS Board Member Jordan Davies. Davies, who lost his life last month, played integral piece in the planning of the event and in the preparation of the run-of-show.

Sydney Irving performs at the 2024 SAMMYS

Following the tribute, Fox turned the audience’s attention to the first musical performance of the evening, Sydney Irving & the Mojo. Irving greeted attendees with a stunning rendition of “All I Need is You,” which saw Irving perform acoustic with George Newton on pedal steel. Her bandmates would join the party and finish the remainder of the set. Additional performers this evening included 2024 Hall of Fame inductee Jeffrey Pepper Rogers, Shawn Seals & SMX, Steven Cali, and the Rollin’ Rust Band.

Tyjhier receives the Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist at the 2024 SAMMYS

Along with the diverse musical performances, awards were handed out in thirteen musical categories. The big winner on this evening was 24 year-old R&B and Neo-Soul star, Tyjhier. Tyjhier, who was awarded the trophy for Best R&B, also won the Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist, a prize that includes a free recording session at Subcat Studios.

Steven Cali performs at the 2024 SAMMYS

The evening not only celebrated the recent accomplishments of those on the Syracuse music scene, but also honored many of those who have played a key role in the area’s rich music history. Frank Malfitano awarded the Founder’s Award to jazz group The Critics Choice. Lori Newcomb received the Jack O Bocchino Spirit of the SAMMYS award for her many years chronicling the music scene through her photography. News anchor Carrie Lazarus received the Community Spirit Award. The evening concluded with the awarding of several “People’s Choice” awards.

Nate Gross receives the award for Best Blues at the 2024 SAMMYS

2024 SAMMY Award Recipients

Best Jazz – Bob Holz

Best Americana – Mike Powell and the Echosound

Best Jam Band – Count Blastula

Best Other Style – Ama Kutin

Best Pop – Sydney Irving

Best Rock – The Flashcubes

Best Hardrock – From Ruins

Best R&B – Tyjhier

Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist – Tyjhier

Best Hip Hop – A Kid Called Danger

Best Blues – Nate Gross

Best Alternative – Vagabonds

Best Country – Christian Parker featuring Earl Poole Ball

Best Single – Al Papers

The Founder’s Award – The Critics Choice

Jack O Bocchino Spirit of the SAMMYS – Lori Newcomb

Best Venue – 7 Hamlets Brewing

Best Music Series – Beak and Skiff Summer Concert Series

Best Academic or Musical Organization – Perform 4 Purpose

Best Artist – Shawn Smith

Hall of Fame Inductees – Steve Schad, Jon Liebing, Sepp Herbert, Westcott Street Cultural Fair, Jeffrey Pepper Rogers, Sean O’Loughlin

March 13, 2024
Sammy Rae Brings Camp to Buffalo

Sammy Rae & The Friends wrapped up their ‘CAMP’ world tour at a newly established venue, Electric City, in Buffalo on Sunday, March 10.

The night started with a one-hour set from the Montreal-native band FLEECE. They brought an infectious and vibrant energy to the stage, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.

During their set, Sammy Rae & The Friends joined FLEECE on stage to perform a song together, ‘Do You Wanna Party‘. Sammy Rae & the Friends continued the energetic vibe that FLEECE started and carried it throughout their set.

The night was filled with joy and love, with each song resonating with the audience. Sammy’s lyrics are soulful and emotionally charged, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.

The group showcased a new song from their upcoming full-length album, David, as well as their previously released singles, ‘Thieves’ and ‘Coming Home Song.’

From FLEECE to Sammy Rae & The Friends, the night felt like a warm campfire. For three hours, the audience could leave their stress at the door and forget about their worries. The atmosphere was safe and welcoming, allowing everyone to be themselves and have a good time.

Sammy Rae 2024 Tour Dates

Oct 30, 2024
Rialto Theatre -Montreal, QC

Nov 1, 2024
Flynn Center for the Performing Arts – Burlington, VT

Nov 2, 2024
State Theatre – Portland, ME

Nov 3, 2024
Landmark Theatre -Syracuse, NY

Nov 6, 2024
The Stone Pony – Asbury Park, NJ

Nov 8, 2024
Terminal 5 -New York, NY

Nov 9, 2024
Terminal 5 -New York, NY

Nov 11, 2024
Ulster Performing Arts Center -Kingston, NY

March 13, 2024
Disco Dead in Albany with Circles Around the Sun and Mikaela Davis

Circles Around the Sun returned to Albany for a sold out show at Lark Hall on Saturday, March 9, with Mikaela Davis and Southern Star opening the night. With five disco balls on stage for the two bands, the audience was presented to an incredible evening of Discofied Grateful Dead-inspired dance music.

Mikaela Davis performed an hour long opening set, beginning with the mesmerizing “Cinderella”, Davis at center stage and flanked by Alex CotÃ© (drums), Cian McCarthy (guitars/vocals), Shane McCarthy (bass/vocals) and Kurt Johnson (steel guitar), with “Cinderella” segueing seamlessly into “In My Groove.”

“Home in the Country” from her 2023 release And Southern Star led to a bit of improv, then shifted to “The Pearl,” which had a subtle Grateful Dead-esque intro. Towards the end of “Leave it Alone,” Davis encouraged the crowd to engage in ‘wooing’ – to which they eagerly participated – before smoothly moving into Alice Coltrane‘s “Journey in Satchidananda.” Davis then gave a shout out to her and the band’s collective Upstate roots, hailing from the Catskills, Syracuse and Rochester, before wrapping up her set with “Other Lover.”

Setlist: Cinderella> In My Groove, Home in the Country, The Pearl, Get Gone, Leave It Alone > Journey in Satchidananda> Promise, Other Lover

Circles Around the Sun took the stage for what would be a nearly two-hour performance, with John Lee Shannon (guitars), Adam MacDougall (keys), Dan Horne (bass), and Mark Levy (drums) channeling the spirit – but not the songs outright – of the Grateful Dead. What transpired was the full crowd grooving along, dancing outright but never standing still as Circles went full Disco on the Dead.

Whether it was the “Language“-adjacent “Away Team,” the slow funk disco of “Landline Memories,” or mellow 1970s mall music churning into a nightclub fever pitch in “Immoveable Object,” the performance led the crowd jive relentlessly.

Early Circles songs – “Babyman” and “One for Chuck” – put the focus on bassist Dan Horne, who held the beat all night, and effortlessly drove the tempo towards a swinging disco of “Money’s No Option.” A standing encore brought Mikaela Davis and her harp back out to the stage for a trio of songs – “After Sunrise” (originally a Sergio Mendes and Brazil 77 song, reworked by the artists), Gloaming Away (a late 70’s synth strut) and the hypnotic grooves of “Language.” The encore alone could have extended another hour and none of the sell out crowd would have complained.

Circles Around the Sun – Lark Hall, Albany – Saturday, March 9, 2024

Setlist: Away Team, Landline Memories, Immovable Object, Babyman, One for Chuck, Money’s No Option
Encore: After Sunrise, Gloaming Away, Language (all with Mikaela Davis on harp and Alex CotÃ© on percussion)

Photos by Zak Radick and Conor McMahon

March 12, 2024
In Focus: Taj Mahal and Sona Jobarteh at The Egg

Blues legend Taj Mahal and Gambian legend-in-the-making Sona Jobarteh graced the stage of the Hart Theater at The Egg on Thursday, March 7 for an immaculate night of globe-spanning music.

Taj Mahal – photo by Conor McMahon

Sona Jobarteh is the first female griot kora master, hailing from one of the five principal kora-playing families in West Africa. With a history spanning 1,000 years, Sona continues a legacy handed down for generations, for the first time to a woman who makes her presence known on the stage and in her home of The Gambia. Jobarteh’s humanitarian activism has led to her founding The Gambia Academy, an institution dedicated educational reform for Africans on the continent of Africa.

Pairing her virtuosity on the kora and the guitar with ethereal vocals, Sona and her band blended traditional West African music with blues and pop from the Mother Continent, and in doing so created an original sound that is at times hypnotic. Walking out one at a time – first the percussion and bass, then guitar and finally Jobarteh – the audience was led immediately to engage in a call and response song, “Jarabi,” with an outset intention to engage all for this very full evening of music.

For an hour, Jobarteh demonstrated with precision the kora while her band crafted beats unlike any other. Each song was given an introduction, with meaning and spirituality invoked throughout, making the connection to the music deeper as the performance progressed. Jobarteh is a beacon of light from West Africa, shining farther west than her ancestors could have ever imagined.

Sona Jobarteh and her band at The Egg – photo by Pete Mason

Harlem-born Taj Mahal took the stage a short while later, strutting out to center stage in his signature Panama hat, surrounded by at least seven guitars of varying sound and size. Opening with “Wild About My Lovin’,” his vocals were tinged with age and rasp, perfect for a gritty blues love song. “Fishing Blues” and the classic “Corrina” followed, after Taj Mahal noted that he had a lack of radio hits over his career.

“Queen Bee” was dedicated to the guys in the audience, with a suggestion that they play this song for their girl the next chance they get. A hint of the Caribbean could be heard in the steel drums of Robert Greenidge (formerly of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefers Band) throughout the evening, while the Hawaiian steel guitar of Bobby Ingano on a cover Santo and Johnny’s “Sleepwalk” creating a creole stew of blues from across the hemisphere.

Taj Mahal and his band with Sona Jobarteh and her band

For an encore, Sona Jobarteh and her band were welcomed back to the stage to perform, “Giant Step.” Watch the song below and photos by Conor McMahon.

Taj Mahal Setlist: Wild About My Lovin’, Fishing Blues, Corrina, Bettye and Dupree, Cakewalk into Town, Queen Bee, Slow Drag, Roscoe’s Mule, Lovin’ in my Baby’s Eye, Sleepwalk, Blackjack Davey, Giant Step (with Sona Jobarte and her band)

Taj Mahal – photo by Conor McMahon

March 11, 2024