NYS Music 2024

Category: Show Reviews

  • Punk Extravaganza With Social Distortion and Bad Religion At The Rooftop At Pier 17

    On May 8, The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York City, with its breathtaking backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building, witnessed an electrifying event as two iconic punk rock bands, Social Distortion and Bad Religion, took the stage as part of their co-headlining 2024 tour.

    Pier 17, perched five stories above the East River, has become renowned for its dynamic open-air atmosphere since its opening in 2018, making it the perfect setting for a night of raw, energetic music.

    What made this particular show even more special was the reunion of these two legendary bands, who first played together in 1980 and now, 43 years later, embarked on an epic nationwide tour. The journey to this momentous occasion was not without its challenges, as in June of 2023, Mike Ness of Social Distortion revealed his diagnosis of tonsil cancer, prompting the postponement of the tour. However, after undergoing surgery, Ness and the band were back on their feet, ready to deliver an unforgettable performance.

    Kicking off the evening was Lovecrimes, a band led by Julian Ness, son of Mike Ness, who inherited his father’s talent for delivering gritty, soulful vocals. With Trevor Lucca on guitar, Collin Schlesinger on bass, and Josh Roossin on drums, Lovecrimes set the stage on fire with their high-energy set, featuring tracks like “Sabotage,” “I’m Your Ghost,” and “Lovesick,” setting the perfect tone for the night ahead.

    As the anticipation reached its peak, Social Distortion took to the stage, led by the incomparable Mike Ness on vocals and guitar. Joined by Jonny Wickersham on guitar, Brent Harding on bass, David Kalish on keys, and David Hidalgo Jr. on drums, Social Distortion unleashed a barrage of hits, including “Bad Luck,” “Mommy’s Little Monster,” “Ball and Chain,” and their iconic rendition of “Ring of Fire.” The crowd was fully immersed in the raw energy and emotion that is quintessentially Social Distortion.

    Closing out the night was Bad Religion, with Greg Graffin commanding the stage with his powerful vocals, backed by Brian Baker and Mike Dimkich on guitars, Jay Bentley on bass, and Jamie Miller on drums. Their set was a relentless onslaught of punk anthems, featuring classics like “No Control,” “Recipe for Hate,” “Struck a Nerve,” and culminating in an explosive performance of “American Jesus.” The crowd erupted into a frenzy, with a massive mosh pit forming in the center and fans surfing the sea of excitement.

    As the final chords faded into the night, it was evident that Social Distortion and Bad Religion had delivered a show for the ages. For the fans who had waited 43 years for this moment, it was a night they would never forget—a celebration of punk rock’s enduring spirit and the power of music to unite and ignite the soul. And as the lights dimmed over the iconic skyline of New York City, the echoes of punk rock reverberated through the air, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to bear witness to this historic event at The Rooftop at Pier 17.

    Bad Religion Setlist: The Defense, No Control, Leave Mine To Me, Suffer, Anesthesia, Fuck You, Beyond Electric Dreams, Recipe For Hate, Drunk Sincerity, I Want to Conquer the World, 21st Century (Digital Boy), New Dark Ages, Struck a Nerve, Do What You Want, My Sanity, Lookin’ In, Generator, Sorrow, You, Fuck Armageddon…This Is Hell, Los Angeles is Burning, American Jesus

    Social D Setlist: Bad Luck, Through These Eyes, I Wasn’t Born to Follow, Tonight, Mommy’s Little Monster, The Creeps, Hour of Darkness, 1945, All Over You, Warn Me, Reach For the Sky, Ball and Chain, Born to Kill, Ring of Fire

    Lovecrimes Setlist: Sabotage, Halfway Heart, Stay With Me, All Alone, Lost in a Minute, I’m Your Ghost, Hold Me Back Again, Harbor Blvd, Lovesick

  • Rodrigo y Gabriela 2024 tour stop at UPAC

    GRAMMY Award-winning guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela brought their 2024 Spring/Summer tour to the Ulster Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, May 1.

    The duo showcased their craft, honed during the early years of busking on the streets of Dublin, Ireland.  The night was filled with gentle melodic notes, stirring crescendos, and powerful rock anthems from this multi-talented duo. 

    Rodrigo y Gabriela

    During the two-hour show, Rodrigo navigated between his acoustic, electric, and pedal steel guitars, while Gabriela generated percussive beats and flamenco-style sounds from her acoustic guitar.  The leveraging of this combination offered a diverse array of musical vistas.

    The night wasn’t for the faint of heart.  A dynamic interactive light show augmented the duo’s onstage chemistry, while presenting the songs in an immersive form.  As the intensity increased, people couldn’t contain themselves, with dancing breaking out throughout the house.

    Rodrigo y Gabriela

    A special moment found the pair strapping on acoustic guitars and stepping into the audience, performing songs in a fashion reminiscent of their early days of busking.  Nestled among their fans, the two expressed appreciation for the support received over the years, which enabled them to travel the world with their music.  In this genuine moment, their humility shone brightly, reinforcing the essence of Rodrigo y Gabriela.

    At first glance, the night seems like a simple setup: just two individuals with two guitars. However, this is Rodrigo y Gabriela, a formidable musical powerhouse.  They filled the night with charisma and intensity, captivating their audience from start to finish.

    Rodrigo y Gabriela

    At the end of the evening, the two left the stage as the house clamored for more.  The pair reemerged, encoring with “Tucam” from their self-titled second album.  As the song concluded and final bows were taken, many pairs of hands were raised high, forming a heart symbol for their beloved act.

    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela
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    Rodrigo y Gabriela
    Rodrigo y Gabriela

  • Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Season Finale was Out of This World!

    On Saturday, May 4, the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra presented “Other Worlds,” its grand finale of the 2023-2024 season. Maestro Daniel Hege led the orchestra in an evening of music from the superhero, fantasy, and sci-fi genres, enlivening a program of beloved classics with crisp, expressive musicianship and bringing delight to a large, all-ages audience.  

    The concert was dedicated to first responders. Members of local police, fire, and rescue departments received complimentary tickets, and at the start of the concert the entire audience rose to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” along with the orchestra in honor of these true superheroes of the community.

    Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Season Finale
    Cher and Ben Douglas

    The musicians of the Philharmonic demonstrated tight, committed ensemble playing in an uplifting program of genre favorites, including themes from Black Panther, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and many more. The orchestra delivered a big, enveloping sound, highlighted by showy contributions from Principal Trumpet Frank Campos. Outstanding solos were also provided throughout the program by Assistant Principal Cellist Michael Newman. And the percussion section was elevated not only by the spectacular playing of Principal Percussionist Sam Lazzara, but also by the introduction of a new bass drum expressly designed for the Philharmonic by ErgoSonic Percussion. Lazzara and ErgoSonic President Ken Turner demonstrated this beautifully resonant instrument to the audience before the start of the show.

    Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Season Finale

    Maestro Hege was an engaging presence throughout, providing a feeling of warmth and welcome to the audience as he introduced each piece. Hege called the Binghamton Philharmonic “a true gem of the community,” and it was clear from the standing ovation and many curtain calls the orchestra received that the audience agreed. In all, “Other Worlds” was a bright and spirited finale to an invigorating season.

  • Decemberists Open 2024 tour at UPAC in Kingston

    After a six-year hiatus from the road, The Decemberists kicked off their “A Peaceable Kingdom” North American 2024 tour at UPAC on Tuesday, April 30. The band is out touring in support of the soon-to-be-released album As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again.  The night’s performance reassured the sold-out house that the band had not lost a step  after a six year absence.

    The Decemberists

    Drawing from lead singer/songwriter Colin Meloy’s college days at Oregon State as an English and theatre major, the show’s structure offered up the feeling of a three-act rock opera.

    Act one: a subtly lit stage. Meloy enters from stage right, acoustic guitar in hand. Taking his position center stage, Colin performs “Red Right Ankle” from Her Majesty the Decemberists.  One by one, the additional band members make their way to the stage, collectively performing three more songs including the debut of “All I Want Is You.”

    The Decemberists

    Act two: the stage is fully illuminated and the band plugs in, diving headfirst into the music. While showcasing tracks from their latest album, The Decemberists did not disappoint longtime fans playing favorites from their twenty-plus year career, including “Make You Better,” “Sucker’s Prayer,” and engaging in a sing-along during “16 Military Wives.”

    Act three: the encore. Pushing nineteen minutes on the new album, “Joan in the Garden” closed the night out. With the feeling of a prog-rock styled anthem, The Decemberists took their fans on a musical journey, moving through multiple states of intensity, culminating with an explosion of white light encompassing the entire room as the song concluded.

    The Decemberists

    A bonus for the night was the Chicago-based band Ratboys. Their indie-pop drive proved to be the perfect opening act. A four-piece group, fronted by singer-songwriter Julie Steiner, garnered praise from the crowd as their set progressed.

    Raatboys

    The tour continues through the spring and summer, closing in The Decemberists’ hometown of Portland, Oregon, on August 3, with Ratboys opening most dates.

    The Decemberists

    The Decemberists
    The Decemberists
    The Decemberists
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    The Decemberists
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    The Decemberists
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    The Decemberists
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    The Decemberists

    Ratboys

    Ratboys
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  • Dan Navarro Delivers An Intimate SRO Performance at Caffe Lena

    Dan Navarro brought his decades of finely crafted songs and well-honed performance skills to a standing-room only house at Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs on Friday, May 3.   

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    Navarro, who introduced himself by promising his audience “two hours of the most depressing songs you’ve ever heard”, delivered two sets of original contemporary folk songs, all of which he wrote or co-wrote, including “Circling The Drain”, which he opened the show with, “Bullet Proof Heart”, “Rose In The Window”, “Horizon Line” and “We Belong”.  He performed on both six and twelve string Taylor acoustic guitars. 

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    Dan preceded some of his performances with explanations as to how the song came to be written or the dynamics of co-writing.  He talked of how co-writer Deborah Holland suggested he might want to listen to some lyrics she wrote for a song she’d titled “Circling The Drain”, to which he commented that he thought it was the “worst song idea I’ve ever heard”, and then she sent what she’d written so far and the song ultimately became their co-write of that title.  He described how at one point he really didn’t think “We Belong”, which he co-wrote with long time songwriting and performing partner Eric Lowen, would amount to much, and then it became a huge hit for Pat Benatar and continues to appear in film, TV and countless other placements.  And he described his long relationship with Eric Lowen as having been like that of an old married couple, saying: “We hung together for over thirty years, fought like hell and never had sex.”  

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    Dan Navarro graced the crowd with a wonderful and inspiring pearl of wisdom about life based upon his own experiences, saying: “If I’d have stood on my anger, my pride and my bitterness, I’d have never lived the life I’ve lived…or had the successes I’ve had…When you’re swimming in poison, regret and fear and someone reaches out with an olive branch…do it.”  Then he launched into “Bulletproof Heart”, one of his solo writes, and told us after he finished the song that at a recent performance in Arizona, the woman who inspired the song showed up. He didn’t elaborate!

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    Toward the end of the show, he told the audience that he continues to perform in his seventies simply because he loves it, and that that love of what he does drives him to the point that he doesn’t believe he can ever stop. Judging from the crowd’s reaction to his performance of song after song, his audiences will never stop showing up to listen.

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    Navarro was backed up by bass player/recording engineer Mark Dann of Woodstock, NY who varied between laying down supportive, mindfully chosen simple accompaniment to Navarro’s single note playing and weaving skillfully crafted, spontaneous, lead-guitar-like melodic base lines into Navarro’s chordal passages. Navarro pointed out that he and Dann had not had a single practice session, but that he’d given the bass player no more than a set list, and presumably the key and basic progression for each song. Mark Dann’s skills at producing spontaneous creativity were quite evident.

    Mark Dann, bassist for Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    The show was part of Navarro’s continuing 2024 US tour, with NY performances at Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs and Song Salon at Graveside Variety in Woodstock; and in support of his most recent solo album release, “Horizon Line”,  and his duo album with James Lee Stanley, “All Wood and Led”, which he described as an acoustic “Laurel Canyon” reimagination of famous Led Zeppelin tunes, from which he played his version of “Whole Lotta Love”.

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    In addition to his work for decades as a singer songwriter, which have included not only his own recordings, songs he has written or cowritten have been recorded and performed by Pat Benatar, The Bangles, The Temptations, Dionne Warwick and others. Navarro’s songs have appeared in films including Deadpool 2, Pitch Perfect 2 and Talladega Nights and TV series including This Is Us and The Office.  And he has performed as a singer and voice actor in movies including Encanto, Coco, Puss In Boots: The Last Wish, and Pirates of the Carribean 5, to name a few.

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    During the show Navarro mentioned that it “means the world to me to be in this room” and told the audience that his ties to Caffe Lena go back to 1986 when he and his former co-writing and performance duo partner, Eric Lowen, sat in a field not far from Saratoga at Lowen’s parents’ house staring at the stars and Lowen told him about Caffe Lena’s rich history.  Navarro first played at Caffe Lena in 1998 and has played and taught songwriting there on numerous occasions since.  

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    A tribute to Navarro’s songwriting skill was the presence of numerous New York State local and regional songwriters in the crowd – Michael Eck who recently performed at Caffe Lena with a release party for his CD “fermata”, Brad Cole of Rhinebeck who has opened for Dan, Carl Rubino who has co-written with Navarro, and CB Smith.

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

    For his final song, Dan and his bass player worked their way on to the middle of Caffe Lena’s packed floor where he did “We Belong” raw, with no mic or PA.  His performance at this legendary listening room once again made evident how special the intimate performances of a smaller venue like Caffe Lena are.  You just can’t get the same relationship between performer and audience in a stadium or even large hall. 

    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena
    Dan Navarro at Caffe Lena

  • Tim McGraw jacks up Buffalo

    No stranger to Western NY, Tim McGraw brought his energy back to Buffalo on May 4, rocking the KeyBank Center. Playing in the area for the first time in 5 years, McGraw’s Standing Room Only Tour ’24 tour featured Carly Pearce and rising star Abby Anderson as openers.

    Like many other regions, Western NY has taken a liking to country music and Tim McGraw over the years has played gigs in Buffalo, Darien Lake, Rochester, and Canandaigua, often on the same tour. With five prominent venues from Buffalo to Canandaigua, there is no shortage of fans or places to play.

    Hitting the stage after Abby Anderson’s brief set, Carly Pearce came out to the hyped Buffalo crowd. With the hockey and football seasons both over for a while, Buffalonians needed something to keep then energized and Pearce did her part. She even bantered about illegal activities in Buffalo. Apparently, wearing slippers in public after 10pm is against the law, as is throwing a ball at an unexpected person’s head.

    Since coming into her own with 2017’s “Every Little Thing”, Pearce has been a mainstay on country charts and stations across the country. While the thirty-four-year-old has her own style and sound, it is very reminiscent of the 90s country sounds of Faith Hill, Shania Twain, and Miranda Lambert, with some vindictive tones. Such is the case with “What He Didn’t Do”. The song talks about a breakup and different sides of the story. While she won’t say he did, she will tell you what he didn’t do. Pearce urges fans that if they are in a relationship and they question why they are in it, it’s time to get out. Applause and cheers fill the arena as Pearce stands there looking teary eyed with an ear to ear smile.

    That’s just dirty laundry
    I don’t need to air the truth
    So I ain’t gonna tell you everything he did
    But I’ll tell you what he didn’t do

    Having worked with high profile names over the past several years, including Chirs Stapelton, Ashley McBryde, and Leann Rimes, Pearce has paid her dues and earned all the accolades. Included accolades are 2018 CMT Award for Breakthrough Video of The Year for “Every Little Thing” and 2021 CMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year. Keep your eyes on this talented musician as her career continues to gain steam going forward.

    Setlist: Diamondback, Next Girl, Easy Going, Never Wanted to Be That Girl, Let’s Go to Vegas (F. Hill cover), We Don’t Fight Anymore, Every Little Thing, Country Music Made Me Do It, Truck on Fire, What He Didn’t Do, I Hope You’re Happy Now

    Following a brief intermission, fans continued to fill the arena as lights go down and a solid red back drop illuminated the stage. Suddenly, a gargantuan silhouette of a guy in his famous Stetson hat appears and seemingly models for the crowd. The crowd erupts as the backdrop fades and Tim McGraw rises to the stage in Buffalo for the first time since 2019.

    An ageless classic, McGraw is outfitted in his typical Stetson hat, tight fitting jeans, and ripped shirt. A musical GQ cover, some might say, is touring to promote his newest album Standing Room Only, released in summer of 2023

    With nearly 30 years of music to choose from, the singer/actor delivers an impeccable setlist of classics and new music, with killer light show and animated backdrops changing for each song to tell the story.

    Starting off the set, fans are treated to powerful rendition of “Truck Yeah”, a song about living the life of southern boy. The old pick up with blaring music, farm life and chasing the girl.

    Rap or country, city farm
    It don’t matter who you are
    Got a little fight, got a little love
    Got a little redneck in your blood
    Are you one of us?

    “Southern Voice” and “All I Want is a Life” round out the first three, and the crowd is just getting warmed up. Going word for word and matching the energy of each song is the game tonight. If only the Sabres could learn something about matching energy.

    As I walk off to tuck photo gear and find my seat, the Buffalo faithful are serenaded with bluesy version of Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer”. There aren’t many songs from Elton than can be covered properly, but I’ll damned if McGraw didn’t take it to another level.

    As the set continues, McGraw takes a moment to let the crowd know that he does not chatter much during his shows. Explaining why, he says he is married and has daughters. He knows that nobody will listen to him anyway.

    Moving on, with songs like “One Bad Habit” and “Watch the Wind Blow By”, the backdrop screen plays videos and images of Tim and his wife, Faith Hill, a testament to his undying love to his wife. Having been married since 1996, they have the marriage that Ross and Rachel only dreamed of. A storybook marriage that has stood the test of time and fame.

    Playing the title track from his most recent album, it is a song about living life and making the most of everything. Getting mad at things that don’t matter will get you nowhere, you need to embrace the challenges and make people envious.

    Live a life so when I die
    There’s standing room only, standing room only
    Standing room only, standing room only

    Rounding out his set, Tim comes out for a 3 song encore that is preceded by a video montage of the series 1883, which starred both him and his wife. Accordingly, “The Cowboy in Me” led things off, followed by “Humble and Kind,” and “Live Like You Were Dying”. “Humble and Kind”, although released by McGraw, was written by Lori McKenna as song to her children about everything she wanted her children to know. McGraw was able to put some new melodies to it and took it to the top in 2015. The following year, though, McKenna did release it on her album.

    “Live Like You Were Dying” was released in 2004 and although never confirmed it tells about someone who has been stricken with a debilitating sickness. Singing about all the things you never had the chance to do or kept putting off for whatever reason, and now you must find a way to cross those things of the bucket list. A powerful and emotional song to close out the set that undoubtedly left some fans in tears.

    Growing up, I was never a fan of country music. My entire family listened to it, except me. I was reluctant to attend a Tim McGraw show in 2004 as part of a marital bargaining chip. That show truly changed my take on country music going forward. Watching Tim and Faith on stage and how broad their talents were something to marvel at. Powerful, thought out lyrics, and amazing stage presence hooked me and now 20 years later, this happens. The world works in mysterious ways.

    Tim McGraw setlist: Truck Yeah, Southern Voice, All I Want Is a Life, Tiny Dancer (Elton John), Just To See You Smile, Over and Over/Shotgun Rider, One Bad Habit, Watch the Wind Blow By, Something Like That, Where The Green Grass Grows, Standing Room Only, Red Ragtop, Highway Don’t Care (w/Taylor Swift), I like It I Love It, Felt Good on My Lips, Real Good Man

    Encore: 1883 video footage, The Cowboy in Me, Humble and Kind, Live Like You Were Dying

    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
    Tim McGraw
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    Tim McGraw
    Carly Pearce
    Carly Pearce
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    Carly Pearce
    Carly Pearce

  • Boogie T Brings the ‘Flava’ Yet Again to Buffalo

    The funky dubstep artist Boogie T made a stop in Buffalo on May 2. This multi-faceted producer left Town Ballroom with another EDM show for the books on his 140 Warriors Tour.

    Boogie T, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    It wouldn’t be called a warriors tour if Boogie T didn’t bring along his talented friends for the ride. Underground bass producer Chef Boyarbeatz began the night with his nostalgic take on heavy breaks. His Spongebob visuals were psychedelic and such a crowd a pleaser once he played his latest single “Squidwards Revenge.”

    Chef Boyarbeatz, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    After, two hard-hitting producers performed a special b2b for Buffalo. Bringing bass music from Hong Kong, Saka joins technical artist FLY for a high energy performance. The two mix effortlessly on stage as they blend hip-hop, dubstep, and rap. The two artists constantly switch on and off the decks showcasing their latest work. Their Baby Keem flip of “Trademark USA” was a staple that got everyone hyped up. 

    Saka b2b FLY, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Boogie T followed up this performance as he took over the stage with his Louisiana swag. This booming producer, also known as Brock Thornton has expressed himself through music since eight years old. His talent in both writing and playing various instruments is evident. Hence for the band he is also in when he’s not behind the decks: BOOGIE T.RIO. His knowledge of all things music and his southern twang brings a new funk to dubstep that is unlike anything others are doing in the scene. 

    Boogie T, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    From the Swamps to the Stage

    Odds are you can pick out a Boogie T song instantly just from his unique sound. Plus it doesn’t matter how much time has passed, his hit tracks bring roaring energy anywhere at any time. That very much was true in Buffalo that night because the screams were unreal once he played “Smokin’ Dat Spliff,” and “2KFO.” 

    Boogie T, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Boogie T’s stage performance is a perfect mirror to his music. His music brings the wonky noises to the people so he brings the funk to the stage. His entertaining dance moves and infectious energy make him so lovable to fans. His visuals somehow extend his unique swag even further with cartoon-like images. 

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    His collaborations with other artists are some of the best pieces of work to come out of the EDM world. Specifically, when Boogie T and Ganja White Night team up their songs are instant hits. So, of course Boogie T performed those songs, “Clarity” and the fan favorite single “Flava.” 

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    Finally Boogie T left the stage but not without a roaring crowd response begging for an encore. He then returned and performed one obvious final track: “Encore.”

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

    EDM lovers look no further for shows in Western NY because we have the lineup for you. Riddim artist INFEKT performs May 11 at Buffalo Ironworks and TSURUDA comes for his rescheduled show May 25. Get your tickets here. 

    Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty

  • In Focus: The Postal Service, Death Cab for Cutie Take Albany to Such Great Heights

    A pair of indie rock’s most influential bands showcased two of their impactful albums on Friday, May 3rd at the MVP Arena in Albany, as The Postal Service and Death Cab for Cutie teamed up for an impressive co-headlining bill.   The bands were celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of their most celebrated albums (The Postal Service, Give Up and Death Cab for Cutie, Transatlanticism), with each band performing their respective album in full.

    The tour itself was born out of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of The Postal Service’s iconic (and only) studio release, Give Up.   The album started as a collaborative effort between Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie) and electronic wiz Jimmy Tamborello (Dntel).  The album, which was praised for its creative efforts, saw the tracks written with the two mailing demo CD-Rs back and forth until reaching completion.  The duo would eventually add Jenny Lewis (Rilo Kiley) to the mix, and The Postal Service was born.  

    Wisconsin based Slow Pulp opened the show and provided a 35 minute set of dreamy, indie-pop tracks.  From their opener, “Idaho”, the band had the early arriving crowd caught in a shoegaze induced trance. 

    The near capacity crowd had filled the seats when Death Cab For Cutie took to the stage.  The band, all dressed in black, opened with the dramatic crescendo of “The New Year,” and continued on to perform their critically acclaimed album Transatlanticism in entirety.  The album, which tells the tale of the struggles and emotions that come with a long-distance relationship, likely served as the soundtrack for many in attendance as they navigated love and loss during their adolescence. 

    Gibbard brilliantly wove the audience through the musical journey, which saw classic Death Cab tracks like “Title and Registration” and “Expo ’86”.  Late in the set, Gibbard and his band mates performed epic renditions of the album’s title track, as well as “Passenger Seat,” both of which saw the arena illuminate with cellphone lights and even a lighter or two, a call back to the original era of this music.  

    Excitement was palpable through out the packed arena well before the house lights dimmed and The Postal Service made their way to the stage.  Now dressed in all white, Gibbard, along with Jenny Lewis whipped the arena in to a frenzy from the opening synth notes of “The District Sleeps Alone Tonight.”  While the album would cover similar themes as Transatlanticsm, the sadness and sorrow were masked with upbeat synths, sounds, and drum loops, curated by Tamborello.   Highlights of the set included Gibbard and Lewis dueting on “Nothing Better” as well as the dark and isolative “This Place is a Prison”.  

    Gibbard and Lewis would return to the stage to perform an acoustic rendition of “Such Great Heights”, an rendition of the Give Up track which was made famous by Iron & Wine. It was the second performance of the song on this evening, as the band had previously performed the more upbeat version during the main set. It was a treat for those in attendance to hear the diverse renditions of the song, and a testament to the songwriting and musical talents displayed on the album.

  • Wisp Makes Brooklyn Stop At Brooklyn Steel

    Shoegaze sensation Wisp played to a jam-packed room at Brooklyn Steel on May 3. Opening for British indie rock band Panchiko, the energy remained high throughout the Brooklyn venue on Friday night. This performance closed out a week of NYC headlining shows for Wisp, at Bowery Ballroom on April 29 and May 1, where Photographic Memory opened.

    Currently based in Los Angeles, Wisp has quickly gained a large following, as the interest in shoegaze and the ethereal elements of the subgenre continue to rise. Wisp kicked off her US headlining tour in April 2024, with dates supporting Panchiko along the way. She had a busy April, with her debut EP Pandora also being released on April 5.

    Throughout Wisp’s set, the room danced along with the strobe lights on stage. Her first single, “Your face,” was released last April. In a year’s time, she has gained a large fan base, and the crowd on Friday was evidence as that. With each song’s intro, the room erupted into screams of excitement and recognition.

    The crowd remained captivated by the mixture of Wisp’s whispery voice and guitar riffs blended with the band’s heavy bass lines and drumbeats through the set. Wisp will be playing her next show on May 07 at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville supporting Panchiko. She will also be making more headlining tour stops through the end of May.

  • Here Come the Mummies Unite Dirty Minds at Empire Live

    When Here Come the Mummies come to town, you know you’re in for a thrilling night of funk. For the unfamiliar, you’re in for a lyrical treat, in addition to the stellar musical performance from the wrapping cloaked mummies on stage.

    This past Friday, May 3 at Empire Live, Troy-based Front Biz opened the night for Here Come the Mummies, dropping a choice set of indie rock that paired nicely with the funk that was on tap. This night marked HCTM first show back in the Capital Region since performing at Skyloft in late 2019.

    Entering from the back of the venue, the Mummies walked out and wound through the crowd, a drumline sounding their arrival in grand fashion. Once on the stage, the group burst into “My Party,” and from there, the party took off.

    What lay ahead was more than 90 minutes of venue shaking bass, multiple horn players swapping back and forth on solos and adding flare to each song, as well as a guitarist who shredded song after song, all keeping their identities under wraps. The group let their “Freak Flag” fly, led the crowd in “Ra Ra Ra”, got suggestive with “Hard at Work” and doubled down with “Pants.” The group’s hilarious lyrics (SFW but full of double and triple entendre) are engaging for the uninitiated, atop a funk foundation you can’t stop moving to.

    With an encore of “Dirty Minds,” the party came to a close, a crowd covered in streamers that had been shot from the stage, celebrated the Mummies and cheered them on for more.