Afrobeat artist AMAYO released his new single, “Madam President,” on August 22, garnering attention across streaming services.
The track “Madam President” begins with an explosion of percussion, brass, keys, and vocals. Right off the bat the song hooks the listener and once you read into the lyrics, you see the subject matter is deep upon the funky, groovy, upbeat instrumentals.
AMAYO is urging the listener to fight – for freedom, for peace, and for justice. With the upcoming presidential election this November 5, the political nature of the track speaks volumes. The artist is speaking through his heart about moving forward and never back.
AMAYO believes that all people of color, and other marginalized groups win if Kamala wins, clear that he is for Kamala Harris’ victory in the presidency. It is also clear that he draws much inspiration from Bob Marley and the Wailers, Steel Pulse, and other reggae/afrobeat artists.
Once a part of Antibalas, a massively influential Afrobeat band, AMAYO is no stranger to the sounds he is currently releasing unto the world. He is credited for bringing Afrobeat to a global audience, leading it to become a genre of itself.
Antibalas Live
To hear AMAYO’s new single “Madam President,” click here and choose your preferred service.
Psychedelic blues and garage rock band The Dirty Pennies just released their first single in almost a year, “Bee Sting.” The nearly seven-minute track sees the group furthering their newer psychedelic sound, one that can be experienced live at one of their upcoming shows in Rochester and Rome, NY.
Initially formed as a gritty psych-influenced blues rock duo by Ryan Klem and Lucas Howe, The Dirty Pennies have evolved over the years, adding on Sean Doohan on bass and Doug Kelley on keys/synth to form the complete package they are today. Uniquely described by fans in many ways, like “a stoner rock project of The Beach Boys” or “early King Gizzard,” The Dirty Pennies have clearly succeeded in forming a unique sound that can’t be simply defined. As of recent, the band has leaned more heavily into their psychedelic influences, highlighted on their 2023 track, “Head Open,” and their newest single, “Bee Sting.”
“Bee Sting” sees The Dirty Pennies leaning more than ever into their psychedelic edge. Clocking in at about seven minutes, the track is a meandering journeyâone that takes its time but doesn’t overstay its welcome. The song covers the feelings of living in the modern world and how things can sometimes seem fine, despite them often not being. After a lengthy intro, the track kicks into full swing when the lyrics “four, three, two, one, and it’s going back” boldly enter, leading into the two short but sweet verses of the song. Around the halfway mark, the track opens up to a groovy guitar solo before eventually picking up to an even more intense solo and cutting off with an abrupt finish.
Although The Dirty Pennies only have one album to date, which was released in 2017, their recent singles have teased the progressive sound that they could potentially use in an evolutionary follow-up. But regardless of whether they put out a full album or keep releasing singles, The Dirty Pennies is certainly a band to keep an eye on.
The Dirty Pennies have a few upcoming shows across the state, one show in Rome, NY, and the other two in Rochester. See below for their dates and locations, and visit here for tickets and more information.
Upcoming The Dirty Pennies Shows
Aug 30th – Rock that River – Rome, NY Sept 6th – Radio Social w/ Continental Drifft – Rochester Oct 21st – Bug Jar (opening for Meatbodies) – Rochester
Wallows, the Los Angeles-based indie rock trio, has been captivating audiences since their formation in 2017. Made of Braeden Lemasters, Dylan Minnette, and Cole Preston, Wallows boasts a signature blend of nostalgic 90s alt-rock and modern indie-pop. Over time, they’ve consistently delivered infectious hits that have earned them both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Their live performances are where Wallows truly shine. Known for their electric energy and dynamic stage presence, each member of the band brings something unique to the table. Their individual contributions combine to create a show that is both sonically and visually captivating. Their shows are more than just concerts—they are experiences that leave fans with lasting memories.
The Show
Wallows’ show at The Mann in Philadelphia was spectacular, showcasing the band’s growth and their connection with their audience. They created memorable moments throughout the evening, making it a night that Philly fans won’t forget.
As the show kicked off, Wallows took to the main stage with “Do Not Wait,” immediately drawing the crowd in. Braeden kept the crowd engaged throughout the night, seamlessly transitioning from talking about Philly’s national treasures to introducing “Quarterback” by joking, “If Benjamin Franklin was alive right now, I think he’d be into football. Speaking of football…” Cole then took over on vocals, and the crowd was loving every minute.
The Mann, with its expansive and almost boat-like feel (as noted by Cole), provided the perfect backdrop for Wallows’ dynamic setlist. From fan favorites like “Scrawny” and “These Days” to deeper cuts like “Drunk on Halloween,” the band delivered a performance that had the audience singing along and dancing throughout the night. One of the standout moments of the night was when Dylan made his way through the crowd during “She’s an Actress,” holding hands with fans and bringing an extra layer of intimacy to the show.
The guys surprised the crowd on the B-Stage by performing “Ground,” a song they hadn’t played on the Model Tour until now. They followed this with a haunting rendition of “Drunk on Halloween,” which further cemented the band’s ability to captivate their audience with both their sound and their presence.
As the band transitioned back to the main stage, they brought the night to a close with a powerful sequence of songs, including “Worlds Apart,” during which Braeden made his way back through the crowd, and the crowd-favorite “Are You Bored Yet?” The energy in the venue was palpable, with fans singing every word and savoring every moment.
Looking Forward
If you missed Wallows on this tour , don’t worry—you can catch them when they’re in New York. Their live shows are an unforgettable experience, and this band is only getting better with time. Catch them live, and be prepared for a night full of incredible music, memorable interactions, and an atmosphere that will stay with you long after the last note has been played.
Setlist:
Main Stage Do Not Wait, Your Apartment, [Anytime, Always], Scrawny, Don’t You Think It’s Strange, Quarterback, Bad Dream, These Days, You (Show Me Where My Days Went), At the End of the Day, Just Like a Movie, A Warning, Uncomfortable, She’s an Actress
B Stage Pictures of Girls, Ground (Tour debut), Drunk on Halloween Main Stage Worlds Apart, Pleaser, Calling After Me, Remember When, I Don’t Want to Talk, Are You Bored Yet?
Article photos by Emma Wannie, Gallery photos by Chloe Dugord
On Saturday, August 24th, the LIMEHOF celebrated the induction of three iconic DJs: Davy DMX, DJ Hurricane, and DJ Jazzy Jay. The event was a tribute to their contributions to hip-hop and the music industry, filled with heartfelt speeches, special performances, and an outpouring of admiration from peers and fans alike.
Davy DMX, Kurtis Blow and DJ Hurricane at the LIMEHOF
Before the induction ceremony, I had the opportunity to ask them a few questions about their careers and perspectives on hip-hop. Kurtis Blow, who was present to induct Davy DMX, also shared his thoughts.
DJ Hurricane, known for his pivotal role in shaping the Beastie Boys’ sound, reflected on his contributions. He described his style as “b-boyish” and “hip-hop,” explaining that he brought a swag and attitude that complemented the group, especially since MCA was the only member from Brooklyn. Hurricane reminisced about the early days, recalling their first meeting at the Def Jam office, although it felt like they had known each other forever. He also discussed the evolution of hip-hop, pointing out that today’s shorter verses and lack of recognition for DJs mark a significant shift from the past.
Kurtis Blow at LIMEHOF
Kurtis Blow, one of hip-hop’s pioneers, expressed his love for the genre, which has been his life for the past 50 years. He encouraged young artists to stay positive and continue to inspire change, emphasizing the importance of returning to hip-hop’s roots of peace, unity, love, and fun. His message was one of hope, urging the new generation to use hip-hop as a tool for global change.
Davy DMX, reflecting on his role as a DJ and producer, stressed the importance of keeping the art of scratching alive. He acknowledged the incredible heights that DJing has reached but emphasized that DJs must remain a central part of hip-hop culture.
DJ Johnny Juice at LIMEHOF
The night kicked off with DJ Johnny Juice taking the stage alongside the honorees, showcasing the skills that have made him a respected figure in the DJ community. Although DJ Jazzy Jay couldn’t attend due to a personal emergency, DJ Johnny Juice graciously accepted the award on his behalf, honoring the legacy of the pioneering DJ.
Davy DMX and Kurtis Blow at LIMEHOF
One of the highlights of the evening was Kurtis Blow’s appearance to induct his longtime friend and collaborator, Davy DMX. In his speech, Kurtis Blow delivered a heartfelt tribute, reminiscing about their early days in Hollis, Queens, and their unforgettable performances, including a legendary night at the Apollo. He credited Davy DMX as a crucial part of his success, particularly for stepping in as his DJ on tour after Run-DMCâs Joey broke his arm. Kurtis praised Daveyâs skills on the turntables and expressed deep gratitude for his unwavering support throughout their global travels. The speech culminated in a powerful moment as Kurtis Blow performed his classic hit, “The Breaks,” to the delight of the audience.
DJ Hurricane and Wife Dawn at LIMEHOF
DJ Hurricane’s induction was equally touching, with his wife, Dawn, taking the stage to honor her husband. She spoke passionately about his impressive career, which began in 1977 and saw him collaborate with legends like Run-DMC, The Beastie Boys, and Davy DMX. Dawn highlighted the challenges Hurricane faced, particularly as a DJ for an all-white group during the early days of hip-hop, and expressed her admiration for his resilience and contributions to the genre. Her words resonated with the crowd, underscoring the impact Hurricane has had on hip-hop culture.
The evening was a powerful reminder of the lasting influence of these legendary DJs, who have shaped the sound and spirit of hip-hop for decades. The LIMEHOF induction ceremony was not only a celebration of their achievements but also a recognition of their contributions to the music world and beyond).
Albany-raised pop-punk band State Champs put forth a new music video for their single, “Too Late to Say.” The release comes just after the band announced their fifth studio album, State Champs, to be released on November 8.
The track “Too Late to Say” showcases an unfamiliar sound to the group’s norm. One that displays a refreshing vulnerability for the band. It rings youthful and polished, but the track holds deeper meaning. “Too Late to Say” highlights the fear of losing yourself. The music video embodies this narrative as the band is seen performing in the back of a speeding truck. This scene is a metaphor for the fast-paced reality of life and its moments.
The music video is an intimate showcasing of the group’s inner fears, and concerns for their future, as well as reminiscing on fears of their past. Throughout the video you see the truck moving quickly down the road. This theme symbolizes the speed at which life may feel to pass as one ages.
“Too Late to Say” is a track off of State Champs’ upcoming 12-song, self-titled album, State Champs. The band is also set to tour across North America beginning November 8 alongside the release of the album. The band has become a major player in the pop-punk scene, championing the genre over the past decade.
For more information on State Champs upcoming releases, and to check out their new music video, click here.
“Diorama” explores all the unique nuances of Sam Rappaport’s voice and vision. The track opens up rather smoothly, with notes of contemporary jazz but with a modern undertone. A soft piano melody carries the tune to its heights and to its valleys. Rappaport’s soothing vocals and lyrics fall perfectly along the instruments throughout the entirety of the tune.
The track explores Sam’s inner fears, loves, and life experiences. “Diorama” refers to a layout of all of what makes up oneself. Sam wants to study his own diorama, who he truly is, what makes him who he is. What is he afraid of and what are the fundamental aspects of his person. What does he love, desire and need, and why?
My dad used to take me to the Natural History Museum growing up, and I would love looking at the dioramas. I started thinking, what if there was a diorama for my life and fears, what scenes would it show? So, I guess the main concept is reflectionâorganizing all one’s little traumas into a diorama for public viewing.
Sam Rappaport
Be sure to keep on eye on Sam Rappaport’s further releases by checking his Spotify, Instagram and YouTube. Visit Rappaport’s website to hear the new single “Diorama” For more information on the artist, click here.
On Friday, August 23, Woodstock-based Americana musician Eddy Lee Ryder released her debut album, Sweet Delusions. The album is a testament to Ryder’s storytelling ability, ironically recounting one of the worst parts of life through playfully catchy tunes that still bring out hers, and our own, deepest emotions.
After releasing a collection of singles and EPs, Ryder amassed a decent following through her emotional storytelling and unique, nostalgic musical style. With the help of musicians like producer Father John Misty, drummer/musical director Dan Bailey, multi-instrumentalist Daniel Chae (Zach Bryan, Kacey Musgraves), and keyboardists Todd Caldwell (Crosby, Stills & Nash, James Taylor) and Dave Shephard, along with harmonies and other help from NYC friends like Rebecca Haviland and pianist Abby Payne, Sweet Delusions is an opus two years in the making.
Throughout the entirety of the album, Ryder wears her heart on her sleeve, showing her anger, bitterness, and frustration in a failed relationship. Yet, even through all those negative feelings, there is a deep sense of romanticism behind the music, as if she’s looking back on these particular events and trying to decide whether they were positive or negative. Despite the ending of the album resembling the end of a relationship, the conflicts presented in the music leave the audience wishing they could be a fly on a wall during any one of these recording sessions.
“I want my music to carry multiple emotions, just like every experience,” Ryder says. “Nostalgia, absurdity, humor, and sorrow.”
Sweet Delusions is no exception. At its core, it is a quintessential breakup album with all the turmoil and heartbreak dripping from each track. With this album, Ryder goes back to the folky sounds of the 70s, with a slight southern twang that she herself admitted was purely accidental. Ironically, it feels like the perfect genre to express those emotions of heartbreak, sadness, and the emotional turmoil of a relationship heading in the wrong direction.
Through tracks like “Highwaymen” and “Only Real Cowboy,” Ryder perfectly depicts a toxic relationship. In the lead single, “Highwaymen,” she compares her relationship to that of Thelma and Louise, knowing something would lead to disaster and terrible consequences but eagerly doing it anyway out of sheer excitement and adrenaline. Through “Only Real Cowboy,” her sense of romanticism comes back full circle, singing about a completely bipolar relationship. Ryder depicts this secretive recluse and the emotional turmoil that comes with that type of relationship in an almost Lana Del Rey-like fashion.
However, leading single “Bad Decisions” expresses the complete opposite. While the romanticization of Ryder’s past relationship is definitely present in other singles, “Bad Decisions” brings us back to reality. The track reminds the audience to be angry at everything that happened, repeating, “Don’t say you love me if you’re here for a good time.” While “Highwaymen” tells us of the excitement of something new and potentially toxic, tracks like “Bad Decisions” and “Joke is on Me” bring us back to those dreadful feelings where the rose-tinted glasses come off and reality sinks in. By “County Fair,” the depression with realizing a relationship must end comes in full swing, and the listener gets to see the path of growth and healing it takes to come to that decision.
Regardless of whether the country music vibes were “accidental”, Eddy Lee Ryder definitely uses it to her advantage. The end of this relationship brought forth plenty of anxiety, anger, and depression that is depicted in a perfect way. As a whole, the intimate nature of country music gives us a deeper understanding of Ryder’s feelings. The intimacy definitely pays off throughout the entirety of the album, and she depicts the whirlwind of emotions in a perfect way.
It’s safe to say that Eddy Lee Ryder’s debut album was a surmounting success. Her goal of carrying multiple emotions was definitely met, and it was almost whiplash-inducing to go back and forth between her emotions. After the release of Sweet Delusions, it’s exciting to see what will come next from Eddy Lee Ryder.
Sweet Delusions is out now on all streaming platforms and fans can visit Ryder’s website for any updates and new releases.
The phrase “Creed is back” has dominated music news over the last ten months, as word of the band’s reunion broke last year. On Saturday, August 24, the multi-platinum rockers brought their Summer of ’99 Tour to the Broadview Stage at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. They were joined by old friends and previous tourmates 3 Doors Down and Finger 11 and were greeted with a sold-out crowd.
Creed rose to stardom in the late 90’s following the release of their debut album, My Own Prison. A prolific set at Woodstock ’99 turned the heads of many in the industry, who were seeking an alternative to the grunge scene. The band released their second album (and smash success) Human Clay soon after. The album’s anthemic singles “Higher” and “With Arms Wide Open” dominated radio, leading to the album being certified diamond status. Creed would go on to release one more album, Weathered (2001) before disbanding in 2004. They would reunite for one more album and almost two years of touring before again disbanding in 2012.
Throngs of rock fans descended upon SPAC early to catch opener Finger 11. The Canadian rockers were a fitting opener for the evening, and delivered a high energy thirty-minute set. The audience had their first of many sing-a-longs for the evening, belting the lyrics to the hit “One Thing” back at singer Scott Anderson.
Up next was 3 Doors Down, a band who rose to stardom soon after Creed. The band’s sixty minute set served as a reminder of the many radio successes the band has achieved over the years, as they performed tracks like “Loser”, “Here Without You”, “Away from the Sun”, as well as their biggest hits “Kryptonite” and “When I’m Gone”. Fans had filled the seated portion and lawn to capacity early on in the performance, and delivered powerful sing alongs to the tracks.
Excitement and energy was palpable by the time the house lights dimmed and the Creed logo shown on the video screens which decorated the back of the stage. A deafening roar greeted the band as they took the stage and opened with the 2001 hit “Bullets”. Singer Scott Stapp paced the stage ferociously as he delivered the spoken-word intro to the track, before a wall of flames erupted, and the band launched full force in to one of its heaviest songs. The band would work their way deeper into their catalog next, performing “Torn” and “Are You Ready”.
Early in the set it and through out the entire evening, it was apparent that the capacity crowd was not just there for trendy purposes. The crowd stood on their feet for the duration of the band’s 105 minute set, belting the lyrics to every track in deafening fashion. The crowd became even more frenzied when guitarist Mark Tremonti revealed he would give one of his guitars to the most passionate fan in attendance, a gesture which saw Tremonti and Stapp gift the guitar to a young child and her father on stage.
For the many in attendance, the set served as a trip down memory lane. Each song took listeners back in time to over 20 years ago, as the band performed a seemingly endless stream of hits, including “My Own Prison”, “What If”, “With Arms Wide Open”, and “My Sacrifice”. Between songs, Stapp spoke of a message of perseverance and overcoming the struggles and challenges faced each day (an achievement he himself can attest to) as well as the need to find unity and common ground in such uncertain times. No matter the struggles and uncertainties we face each day, one thing is for certain.
Thursday, August 22 was a night of neon shirts, glow sticks and necklaces, and spandex as New Kids on The Block put quite the performance for fans at Darien Lake Ampitheatre. Joining the adventure were Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff, no strangers to the Gen X fans in attendance.
Formed in 1984, the New Kids recently released their eighth album, Still Kids, and have been on tour in support of it.
Getting the party started was DJ Jazzy Jeff. Half of the famed duo DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince, Jazzy Jeff scratched the records while his MC, Dayne Jordan, rocked the mic. Playing samples of classics like “O.P.P.”, “I’m a Believer”, and “Jump”, as well as theme songs from both Cheers and Super Mario Bros., this MC and DJ duo had the crowd of mostly middle-aged fans thinking they were still kids on the playground chillin’ out, maxin’, relaxin’ all cool. As his set ended, I am sure fans were anxious to see if would get tossed off the stage in the same manner Uncle Phil tossed him out of his house (he did not get tossed.)
Following the famed DJ, fans were treated to a former dancer/cheerleader/choreographer turned talent show judge. 62-year-old Paula Abdul took to the stage playing notable hits from the late 80s and early 90s.
Rising up through the stage, Abdul seems to be portraying herself struggling to write “Straight Up”, scribbling notes, before breaking into song as she is whisked off towards the front of the set. Using her amazing dancers as props, she continues on like it was 1988 all over again. This time around was little different, though, as she immediately takes quick breather, some water, and oxygen. “What?” She asks the surprised crowd. “This is 62, folks!” she quips.
Well known for her dancing and choreography, Abdul wastes no more time in continuing the production. “Vibeology” and “Cold Hearted” were performed flawlessly, as if they were making a new video to air during TRL.
With a hand-picked dance troupe surrounding her, Abdul prances around the stage, utilizing the various wardrobe racks for quick changes, many that were replicated from the heyday of music videos, including a bright yellow fedora style hat.
Only playing for about 35 minutes, the former celebrity crush of many 70s and 80s kids doesn’t forget those who have helped her along the way, including her video partner from “Opposites Attract”, MC Skat Kat, who joined her while she performed the song. For someone who recently came back from a 25-year hiatus from touring, Paula Abdul doesn’t seem to have lost her step.
Danny Wood, Jonathan Knight, Jordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, and Joey McIntyre were brought together in the mid 80s outside of Boston, MA to create an up-and-coming boy band as counterpart to New Edition. While success wasn’t immediate, it did happen a few short years later after a Florida radio station put “Hangin Tough” on repeat due to listener requests. Fame was on the fast track, and teenage girls buying posters and cassettes, t-shirts and hoodies, and going to shows at malls around the country drove the train on that fast track.
Fast forward to August 22, as many of those young girls are now taking their kids to see the boys who they went nuts for in middle and high school. “Donnie! I love you!”, “Marry me, Joey!”, “Danny is so hot!” were common things heard while among the sparse crowd of around 8500.
Getting the night started with two tracks from their newest release, NKOTB came out with “Magic” and “Summer Love”. Just like 35 years ago, fans were screaming and jumping for joy as they music played. I don’t know if it was because of the songs or because they were seeing childhood idols for the first time. Either way, the crowd was boisterous and enthusiastic from start to finish. Rounding out the first 3 was “My Favorite Girl,” a song they first played in 1989.
It’s the most mature album we’ve ever made
Mark Wahlberg on Still Kids
Cruising through the 28-song set, Wahlberg and company give fans what they want with every song. Nostalgic lyrics, hip thrusts and gyrations that Elvis would be proud of, as well as a little bit where shirts came off and muscle flexes were the show. As teenage heartthrobs of yesteryear, the boys have seemed to take their rizz to new levels now that they are all grown up. I heard zero complaints from the crowd.
Having toured with NKOTB before, DJ Jazzy Jeff once again becomes part of the show, as he appears atop of the huge steps on stage. With a mashup of “Dance With You” and “Love Like This” getting started, each of the singers brings out a ‘selected’ fan and they continue to perform with the guests by their sides. A true moment to remember for these 5 lucky ladies.
Getting Jazzy Jeff more involved, Wahlberg, in roundabout way, demands to play “Summertime”, to wish there is no argument from the DJ. After playing a short clip, Wahlberg stops and asks a young lady on stage who claims to know the song word for word. The 16-year-old made the trip the mid Atlantic region for this show and proceeded to belt out a couple verses from the song made famous by DJ Jazzy Jeff and Fresh Prince. With her mom by her side, the young lady was elated to get the opportunity. Wahlberg continues on to say that they continue to gain fans through generations by parents still listening to the music of their childhood.
With notoriously bad parking rituals at the venue, I left a little early but was able to hear clearly as “Step By Step” and “Hangin Tough” rounded out the night.
While I will admit the New Kids were never my cup of tea 35 years ago, and maybe aren’t now, but they can sure put on a show, I will never argue that at all. They had men and women up and waving their arms and singing word for word. They had teens singing along with their music, and that is exactly what they want. I watched a group of ladies, probably in late 40s, doing the dances they learned 35 years ago. They were all having an amazing time reliving some of their glory years. Life longs fans that pass on their music and memories.
Follow along with the Kids and check out their first new album in 11 years New Kids On The Block
New Kids on The Block setlist: Magic, Summer Love, My Favorite Girl, Cover Girl, Dirty Dancing, You Got It (The Right Stuff), Remix (I Like The), Block Party, Tonight, Where Do I Go From Here?, Treat Me Right, Call It What You Want, Popsicle/Games/This Is How We Do It/ Stay With Me Baby, Baby I Believe in You, Never Gonna Fall In Love Again/Paradise City, Happy Birthday, Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time), Please Don’t Go Girl, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Dance With You/Love Like This, Summertime (DJ Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince), Kids, I’ll Be Loving You (Forever), Step by Step, Hanging Tough/We Will Rock You (Queen), These Are The Better Days
Paula Abdul Setlist (partial) Straight Up, Vibeology, Cold Hearted, Opposites Attract, Rush Rush, The Promise of a New Day/Knocked Out/Ain’t Never Gonna Give You Up, Forever Your Girl
DJ Jazzy Jeff setlist (partial): OPP (Naughty by Nature), Jump, Eye of The Tiger (Survivor), Jump Around (House of Pain), Let Me Clear My Throat (DJ Kool), Monkees, Cheers, The Fresh Prince theme, Super Mario Bros Rap, Uptown Funk, Living on a Prayer
Legendary blues rock guitarist and New York native, Joe Bonamassa brought his “Blues Deluxe Summer Tour” to the historic Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. Most recently, Bonamassa released his newest effort Live At The Hollywood Bowl With Orchestraearlier this summer. Friday, Aug. 26 was the first of two back-to-back nights that Bonamassa rocked the “Original Rock Palace.”
With fans finding their seats in the nearly 100-year-old venue, Bonamassa and his band graced the stage and jumped right into “Hope You Realize” off of Bonamassa’s Blues Deluxe Vol. 2record. Since there was no opener this evening, it left the band with more time to play for their fans. From the moment the 11-piece band plugged their instruments in, their sheer power overtook the fans. For a blues band, they were certainly loud, but in the best way possible. The classic blues rock rang like joyful noise during the two-hour performance.
The official music video for Joe Bonamassa’s “I Want To Shout About It”
Bonamassa was firing on all cylinders. From the vocals to the guitar playing to his stage presence, he had it all. From the little he spoke during the night, he made up for it during his guitar masterclass. Watching Bonamassa play took the breath out of some fans’ bodies as they watched in awe. Some people in the crowd were recording on their phones while others air-guitared. Some simply watched stunned by the guitar hero in front of them.
Bonamassa’s backing band consisted of a horn section featuring saxophones and trumpets, three backing singers in addition to the drums, bass, rhythm guitar and keyboards. Within the band, the musicianship was top-notch. They all played their part and had a welcoming sound to them. At one point in the show, Bonamassa called his band family and that he respects them the most. To see a leader like Bonamassa praise the band behind him was amazing to see.
Within the band, the musicians as individuals were spectacular. The horn section added a uniqueness to the band while the backup singers added more beefiness to the vocals. At one point in the show, singer Jade MacRae had a solo during “Self Inflicted Wounds.” Listening to her vocals sent chills up and down the spines of the audience who cheered and applauded at the end.
For those who don’t know all the individual members of Bonamassa’s band, on percussion, to his left sat Reese Wynans. Wynans is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer with Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble. When he was introduced, the audience all rose to their feet to pay respects to the legendary keyboardist. But, throughout the night, Wynans was spinning back and forth on the keyboard giving the performance of a lifetime.
The show flowed effortlessly as each song slowly transitioned into the next. With each new song, came an even flashier guitar from Bonamassa who changed guitars for what seemed like every song. During a few songs, he would sport a beautiful Les Paul while other times it would be a classic telecaster or a gorgeous red Gibson. It did not matter which guitar was on stage because, by the end of the song, Bonamassa delivered an emotionally beautiful solo.
While the band was setting up for the next song, Bonamassa took the time to say a proper hello to the audience and clarify that he is a New York native which brought a cheer from the audience. Bonamassa then proceeded to thank everyone for showing up to a homecoming show. It seemed that once he acknowledged he was in front of his home state’s audience, then the show got even better. There was a sense of the audience also acknowledging that the legendary guitarist was playing in a legendary venue and it made for a spectacular rest of the evening.
The entire night of Joe Bonamassa and his band at the Capitol Theatre was one of the best ways to close out the summer concert season.
Of the seven shows that remain on Bonamassa’s schedule, four are in New York. On Saturday, Aug. 24 he’ll be right back at the Capitol Theatre which is followed by a date in Rochester on Aug. 25 and Albany on Aug. 27. If you are a fan of blues rock and roll then you have to go see Bonamassa. It was a magical night of nothing but essential blues music.
Joe Bonamassa Setlist: Hope You Realize, You Upset Me, 24 Hour Blues, Done Got Over It, Self Inflicted Wounds, I Want To Shout About It, Last Matador of Bayonne, Breaking Up Someone’s Home, Heart That Never Waits, Is It Safe To Go Home, See See Baby, Humming Bird, Hard But It’s Fair, Mountain Time
