NYS Music 2024

Category: Special

  • Sauce City Releases New Music Video For “Lens of One”

    Indie band Sauce City has shared their new music video for their soulful single “Lens of One” ahead of the bands’ live performance at Drom in the East Village on April 19.

    The East Village-based band Sauce City have shared that their music video was also a submission to the 2024 Tiny Desk Contest. This year’s Tiny Desk contest has received over 6,600 entries so far, with mostly being from the independent artists who make up the community.

    The trio shared that they named their band “Sauce City” because they love sauces more than food. The two, Paul and Eric first met at a band camp on Long Island whilst they were still middle schoolers. The two later met Kirin while she was their collegiate in an a cappella group. After networking with a drummer and bassist, the trio moved to NYC and started jamming together in April of 2022 and Sauce City was born.  

    When describing the inspiration behind the single, Kirin shared that in July 2023, her NYC apartment was burglarized just before their big single-release show the next day leaving her without a guitar to play. Kirin added “In the kindest of gestures, our close family friend, Glenn Coleman, gifted me a beautiful Epiphone to use from his personal collection. Having solely founded the company “Coleman Audio”, Glenn was a pioneer in the recording industry. Legends such as Stevie Wonder and Joan Jett not only used his unique analog consoles to record, but also developed personal relationships with Glenn over the years”. 

    After the set back from the inherent trauma, Glenn texted Kirin to “take all these feelings and write a song” as he gifted her his guitar right before he passed from his long battle with cancer three months later.  

    But in the midst of all the turbulent series of events, and in following Glenn’s wise advice, Kurin wrote “Lens of One”. A soulful single that reminds many of how the world is full of beautiful, radiant highs but also dark, and sometimes scary lows. “The culmination of these, however, is what gives us our own unique perspective on the world – our “Lens of One”,” She added. 

    After sharing their music video for the contest, the band will also be performing at Drom in the East Village on April 19th, with tickets available on Drom’s website.

    To learn more about the soulful band, fans can visit here.

  • WIRE Festival Returns to Knockdown Center, May 16-19

    Plunge into a techno paradise in Queens from May 16–19, when WIRE Festival makes a return to Knockdown Center. This year, the event broadens its scope, delivering three days of non-stop pulsing beats.

    WIRE Festival Knockdown Center

    On Thursday, May 16, festivities begin with evening talks in collaboration with the Resident Advisor, preparing the ground for an enjoyable weekend. Stage 1 is the Main Hall, where techno’s seminal and innovative acts perform. Meanwhile, Stage 2 is the scene of takeovers. This year, Wire has invited Berlin’s Mala Junta and Amsterdam’s Vault Sessions. These two European collectives will redefine techno in 2024.

    A staple of WIRE, the Ambient Stage returns with exclusive sets from versatile New York DJs. As night passes, the stage delivers an extraordinary sound trip through artists’ collections. On Sunday morning, the outdoor closing session at The Ruins features house-focused DJs, offering an intermission from the nonstop techno beats. The outdoor house stage is a new addition that will expand the experience.

    WIRE Festival Knockdown Center
    WIRE Festival – Photo by Bryan Kwon

    With artists like Surgeon, Rødhåd, Boris, Oscar Mulero, and more, WIRE’s lineup is a techno lover’s paradise. With more than 30 years of experience, Surgeon embodies the energy, adventure, and individuality that define techno. The crew takeovers on Stage 2 carry on their tradition, pushing the boundaries with Vault Sessions and Mala Junta.

    WIRE Festival is arranged by the team of Téa Abashidze, GeGa Japaridze, and Tyler Myers—the brains behind BASEMENT and the RUSH series. Individual day passes for WIRE Festival at Knockdown Center are available for purchase here, while the weekend passes have sold out.

  • A Coldwave Hits Town Ballroom

    Buffalo band ‘Free Music Party’ hosted their first music festival, Coldwave, at the Town Ballroom on Saturday, March 2. The event featured local, Buffalo-native artists and musicians from surrounding areas.

    Alex Live & Kevin Spears, Free Music Party

    The one-day festival lineup featured a headlining performance from Free Music Party themselves. Additional performers included ProSocial, Johnny and the Man Kids, and Nefatli, among others.

    As all festivals tend to get a bit of a slow start, Coldwave was no exception to this. That didn’t stop each act from giving it their all during their 30-minute sets and the headliner during their hour-long set.

    Kevin Spears, a member of Free Music Party, said of the event, “Cold Wave is a first-year, Western New York-centered music festival hosted by Free Music Party, a Buffalo R&B and Hip Hop act. Under the guidance of Kaylen Price and Max Cambria, Free Music Party gathered some of the freshest and upcoming musical acts from the area, and even a few out-of-town musicians, under the roof of the historic Town Ballroom for a night of music, art, fashion, and community.

    The festival aims to capture the raw, unique, and utter coolness of the artistic movement emerging from Buffalo and the surrounding areas. Free Music Party, dubbed “FMP” by friends and fans alike, being heavily involved in this emerging scene from the beginning. We knew we would be the perfect hosts to be at the forefront of this ‘cold wave’.”

    Alex Live, Free Music Party

    It was incredible to see all of these local acts under one roof. This festival truly gave these artists a platform they might not have had otherwise. It also did wonders to spotlight the Buffalo music scene and its influence in the city.

    For more from Coldwave Music Festival, head to Free Music Party’s social platforms @freemusicparty.

    Nor.th Star
    Sekou
    Stinlo
    Hanarlo
    Miss Cactus
    Mailli
    Rosai
    Nefatli
    Johnny and the Man Kids
    ProSocial
    Alex Live & Kevin Spears, Free Music Party
    Eddy Blanco interacting with the crowd
    Kevin Spears, Free Music Party
    Luno J, Free Music Party
    Eddy Blanco, Free Music Party
    Luno J and Apollo Dollo, Free Music Party
    Eddy Blanco, Free Music Party

  • Gangstagrass Release Funky New Sophomore Single “Good at Being Bad”

    NYC Bluegrass hip-hop group Gangstagrass has released their latest funk-infused single titled, “Good at Being Bad.” The group stands for a unique and true musical genre of their own creation that merges the styles of country/bluegrass and hip hop. The latest single from the group exhibits their talent and diversity greatly.

    Gangstagrass has also revealed a new 10-track album titled, The Blackest Thing On The Menu. The group delves deeper into the fundamental sounds of each genre, while preserving their own unique blend and sound. “Good at Being Bad” is complete with masterful mandolin playing, dynamic production, and energetic vocals.

    The tune seamlessly blends funk with Gangstagrass’s distinctive fusion of bluegrass and hip-hop. The group originated in Brooklyn, but the sound they possess transcends city, state, and country. They are a diverse blend of sound, and the two genres reflect a coming together of American values.

    This rebellious collective has achieved unparalleled success in crafting an innovative sound rooted in historically significant heritage. Gangstagrass emphasizes the value of education, frequently conducting workshops for K-12, college students, and adults of diverse backgrounds. Whether through engaging Q&A sessions, historical lessons, or spontaneous music tutorials, the group staunchly advocates for imparting well-rounded knowledge to everyone. 

    “Working with Gangstagrass was awesome. I had been hip to them for a few years and was really diggin’ what they were doing. Mixing bluegrass with hip hop! Quite out of the box thinking. A lot of worlds coming together. I have always been a fan of bluegrass and have worked on a few records. When we got in the studio, I thought the band was exceptionally talented. Also, I was a rapper myself in the late 80’s and early 90’s, so this scratched my classic hip hop itch with a new school twist. So, to record these amazing lyricists with a live smackin’ band… what more could you ask for!!”

    Boo Mitchell

    Gangstagrass’ music is a must-listen. Their amazingly different sound is something to certainly lay your ears on.

    To listen to Gangstagrass’ latest single, “Good at Being Bad,” via streaming service, click here.

  • NYC Duo The Lemon Twigs Release Latest Album “A Dream Is All We Know” Featuring Sean Lennon

    NYC indie-rock duo The Lemon Twigs released their latest album titled A Dream Is All We Know. The LP sees a wonderful collaboration with Sean Ono Lennon, son of Beatles legend John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

    the lemon twigs

    The Lemon Twigs hail from NYC/Long Island area. The duo tours with two other band members that cover various instruments while on the road. The group draws inspiration from golden age classic rock, and modern indie rock music and they do a splendid job of merging both styles into something many can turn on to.

    The Lemon Twigs new LP was mixed and mastered by the duo themselves, brothers Brian and Michael. Sean Ono Lennon recorded and co-produced the track, “In the Eyes of a Girl” while at his Upstate New York recording studio.

    The album is hugely reminiscent of 60s and 70s classic rock like the Beatles, Beach Boys, Grateful Dead and others. It is very fitting that Sean Lennon collaborated on this album to homage the music his father birthed. The album has a vintage feel, and a summer-of-love vibe undoubtedly.

    The group performing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon

    To learn more about The Lemon Twigs and all upcoming music, click here.

  • Ani DiFranco’s “Baby Roe” Strikes Back at Patriarchy

    Just in time for Women’s History Month, Ani DiFranco – singer, songwriter, feminist, and author – has graced listeners with her impactful new release, “Baby Roe“.

    With this, Ani fearlessly tackles the topic of reproductive freedom in the face of constant threats to women’s autonomy. While being known for her vocal activism, DiFranco believes that the right to an abortion is a basic civil right.

    “As a society, it is time to acknowledge that unless a woman is in control of her own reproduction, she is not free, and it is the responsibility of our American government to protect and ensure the freedom of all American citizens”

    Ani DiFranco, as told to Huff Post

    “Baby Roe” is inspired by Joshua Prager’s book “The Family Roe“. Prager’s book covers the unfolding of events surrounding the Roe v. Wade ruling of the Supreme Court in 1972. DiFranco shines on the life of Norma McCorvey’s adopted adult child, who was born and raised during her fight for the right to an abortion. Despite her historical role, Baby Roe came to grasp her importance as an adult becoming an advocate for a woman’s freedom of choice.

    In addition to her musical pursuits, Ani takes center stage in the Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical Hadestown as “Persephone.” This Grammy winner and feminist icon launched her own record label in 1990, helping to kickstart the DIY movement. First known as the “Little Folksinger,” her career has spanned punk, funk, hip hop, jazz, soul, electronica, and more. Later this year, her 23rd album will be released. Ani DiFranco is also notable for opening Babeville, a live music venue in Buffalo.

    As “Baby Roe” echoes across the radio, it serves as a call to action while simultaneously being a music masterpiece. Ani DiFranco’s dedication to civil rights, in the vein of a true feminist icon, is a reminder that art can spark social change.

  • I’m Going To Marry Your Dad Announces Amusing Debut Single “The Friendship Song”

    News is brewing as I’m Going To Marry Your Dad announces the March 5 release of their first ever single “The Friendship Song” under the House of Feelings in the center of New York City.

    The creative force behind the performance art project “I’m Going To Marry Your Dad,” Xalvador, is well-known for his work with drag icon Christeene. This artist has been getting more and more recognition, especially in the LGBTQ+ community and elsewhere.

    “The Friendship Song”, while on the surface seems innocent, is actually a critique of the shallow nature of modern friedships. As produced by Derek Walsh, the song allows listeners to look deeper into our relationships.

    The artist boldly asserts that friendship and professional success are often linked, as it changes into a campfire singalong. The humorous line, “Grab your friends and say hello, how are you, how can you further my career?” expresses how some personal relationships are seen as a possibility for career advancement.

    I'm Going To Marry Your Dad

    Although this idea may seem cynical or even controversial to some, the artist argues that it is an economic reality. For instance, what others may consider to be horrible, they see as economical. This clever wordplay adds a layer of satire to the song. ‘The Friendship Song’ is a definite add to your playlist.

    A release show with a stellar lineup that includes I’m Going To Marry Your Dad, Christeene, Josephine Network, and Le Bang will take place on March 8 at 7 pm at TV EYE, located at 1647 Weirfield St, Ridgewood

    The satirical “Friendship Song”, with a focus on the absurdity of humankind, will be available on all streaming services on March 5. Get tickets to the March 8 release show here.

  • Ilya Popenko Releases Music Video For “The Horse is Not Mine”

    Ilya Popenko, lead singer of NYC-based Mad Meg has released a solo track and music video for his new single “The Horse is Not Mine.”

    The Horse is Not Mine Ilya Popenko

    Ilya Popenko is a multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, photographer and songwriter, born in the former Soviet Union. In 2011, he formed Mad Meg, a psychedelic progressive rock band plays in an eclectic style they themselves identify as “Punk-Chanson-Noir”. The band has toured extensively in Russia and the former Soviet Bloc, including tours that covered close to 30 cities throughout the vast, frozen expanse of Eastern Europe, and in the course of which they shared the stage with such luminaries as Nogu Svelo!, Brooklyn-based rock band Rasputina, and Emir Kusturica.

    While Mad Meg is on hiatus, Ilya has continued to work on his solo songs. In his new music video for “The Horse is Not Mine,” Ilya performs the song dressed in horse costumes amidst surrealist animation that interacts with live action footage. The lyrics of the chorus may seem like nonsense, but when describing the song, the artist shares that the lyrics are a verbatim translation of the Russian saying, “I’m not me, and the horse is not mine,” which is used to say, “I have nothing to do with that.” Ilya likes to incorporate direct translations of Russian proverbs in his songs, as lost in translation and taken out of context, they lose their original meaning and become an abstract and beautiful combination of words. The music video is directed by Nikolai Metin and incorporates animation by Katya Mezentseva.

    Ilya Popenko’s new single “Horse is Not Mine” is available to stream everywhere and to learn more about the artist and the band fans can visit here. 

  • Hipsy Gap releases adrenaline-fueled ‘Shellshocked’

    Introducing Hipsy Gap, a lively five-piece alternative rock group from the busy streets of Brooklyn. The group today, March 1, releases “Shellshocked”, their new single, taking listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions.

    As we enter a new season, Hipsy Gap invites listeners to jump into an adventure that captures the excitement of turning a new leaf. With edgy guitars, ambitious vocals, and a mid-song switch-up leading to dreamy shoegaze bliss.

    Besides, “Shellshocked” has just released in the perfect moment. With this single, listeners can feel ready to let go of the weight of winter blues. Fans might want to start a new chapter as we say goodbye to the coldest, least appealing months each year. Further, the song is a metaphor for letting go of the past and welcoming something new and inspiring. It makes sense that the band would end their live performances with this five-minute epic, and leaves the audience wanting more. “Shellshocked” should be felt as much as it should be heard.

    The vivid imagery of escaping from a burning building and discovering an unknown ocean gave the song a very powerful narrative. With an unexpected melody change, the song takes you through an uplifting-adrenaline rush type of feeling. Additionally, the melody change complements the emotional shift. The song takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, moving from urgency to reflection to an empowering ending.

    Hipsy Gap’s sound is a combination of pop catchiness and raw energy similar to DIY 90s rock. “Fantasize” and “Uno,” two of their most recent songs make you feel like you might have heard them before, but you can’t quite put your finger on where (or when). Drawn from artists such as Paramore, Slowdive, and The Cranberries, their philosophy of fusing genres is shown by the group’s diversity.

    “[Hipsy Gap] captures a lush melancholic spirit full of passionate vocals and a blend of shoegazey production and instrumentals, with a whip-smart chorus that has fragments of 90s power pop songwriting, with a magic feeling of its own”

    -Will Oliver, We All Want Someone to Shout For

    Hipsy Gap is definitely on the verge of big things with “Shellshocked”. Keep an eye on them as they continue on this path, leaving audiences hungry for more.

  • Josh Lumsden Releases Hypnotic Single “Serotonin”

    Pop artist Josh Lumsden has released a soothing new single “Look at What I Found” that explores euphoric experiences in romance. 

    Independent DIY pop artist and acclaimed NYC-based producer Josh Lumsden new single marks as the second single of  their sophomore EP, VYYPER slated for a 2024 release. The hypnotic and dragonfly-infested self-produced single “Serotonin” features a dance-funk sound blended well with powerhouse belts. When describing the song, the artist shared how the single “is about feeling the euphoric high experienced when entering a new romantic situation.” 

    Mexican-American Josh Lumsden is known for being the sole producer of their entire discography and director and editor of their music videos. Known for their musical collaborations with LGBTQIA+ Icons Yvie Oddly and Brendan Maclean, the classically trained musician and self-taught producer has been praised by PopBuzz for “constructing supernatural earworms”, with World Of Wonder asserting that “everything you hear comes straight from Josh”. 

    The single is also accompanied by a self-directed music video and features a completely different vibe. The video shows him completely depicting himself and a hybrid-ethereal entity in their  image, showcasing an emotional entrapment. Dragonflies consistently reappear in different parts of the video, serving as a recurring visual motif that ties the scenes together. As a producer of the track, Lumsden shared how they were very inspired by downcast-pop/funk & unconventional chords, “I really wanted to pair that with vocals that kind of touch all the different ranges of my voice. I tried to mix chest voice, falsetto, and belting all in one track.”

    With the single release and a new EP date announcement, Lumsden also shared that there will be a few more singles off the EP, which fans can expect to be released this year. Their new self-produced single “Serotonin” is available to stream everywhere, and for more information about the artist, fans can visit here.