Ithaca-based trio Pocket Bandits have released their Groovy third single “Second Drink” alongside the announcement of their debut LP.
A modern twist to the old-school organ trio, Pocket Bandits packs the musical punch of a large ensemble in a smaller unit. Members Joe Massa on guitar, Simon Bjarning on drums, and Samuel B. Lupowitz on organ, synth, and pedal keyboards combine their musical prowess into a final product that is full of infectious dancing energy.
Having performed separately in various groups across Central New York prior to the pandemic, when the group’s regular musical roster came to a halt they found themselves faced with a unique opportunity- and with that Pocket Bandits was born.
Since then, the trio has performed countless covers from Steely Dan to Chappell Roan with original compositions sprinkled throughout.
The unit debuted their first official release in April of this year, and since then have been hard at work writing, rehearsing, and recording. Returning for their third track to date, Pocket Bandits has released the infectiously funky “Second Drink.”
Clocking in at just over six and a half minutes, “Second Drink” capitalizes on each and every second with an overflowing, undeniable, stylish funk. Recorded almost entirely live at Redwood Lane in Ithaca, there’s some serious technical work at play hidden beneath the layers of boogy with shifting time signatures, a suitelike structure, and a gradual buildup to an organ solo that really bring the piece to life.
Even more exciting is the news that dropped alongside “Second Drink”- the reveal of Pocket Bandit’s debut EP. Releasing on January 24 is Nine– a set of nine vibrant originals from the trio that are sure to excite.
The group has also teased an album release show in their homebase of Ithaca with more dates across the Northeast to follow. To learn more about Pocket Bandits, find out about a show near you, and keep up to date with all of their latest endeavors, be sure to visit their official website here.
Brooklyn based singer-songwriter Camille Schmidt has released her latest single “XOXO” in preparation for her debut album Nude #9.
Brooklyn based and raised in a constant environment of creativity, it’s no wonder why Camille Schmidt has picked up all spans of musical skill over the years. Spending extensive amounts of time in her parents’ art studio, Schmidt found endless inspiration in both the work her parents created and the people who would come in and out of the space.
Debuting as a musician this past June with the EP Good Person, Camille carved out a queer folk-rock sound for herself that reflected her larger ability to balance an innately wry sense of humor with deeper moments of devastatingly quiet self-reflection with tracks like the alt-country “Your Game” and her wistful approach to heartbreak with “Bumblebee Drinks Lavender.”
Returning for her debut album, Schmidt pulls from her experiences in her parents’ studio in Nude #9, each track a portrait of herself, her family, and her lovers past and future- just as each live model drawing session would result in pieces titled in the same convention, a unique reflection of each individual’s perspective on the subject.
Whimsical, hilarious, and deeply felt, Schmidt’s debut album digs deeper into her experiences with romance, sexuality, friendship, and her sense of self. Newly released from the Nude #9 project is “XOXO,” a fascinating layering of electronic manipulation that speaks to every corner of Camille’s inner thoughts.
Wandering from thoughts of raising a child with her best friend to contemplating the “demon in my room” she faces when she’s alone, “XOXO” is a track tinged with an unplaceable sense of something impending. Beginning with a rather upbeat digital track, the song progressively spirals and collapses in on itself as Schmidt becomes half-woman, half-machine. By the conclusion of the song, listeners are left with a feeling of evolution- she’s buried her former self and grown into something new.
Paired with the release of “XOXO” is its official music video that takes the concept of burying your past self to another level. Viewers watch as Camille dons a hazmat suit and brandishes a mop, opening the door to the bloodied motel bathroom where the body of her past self lies.
A perfect echo of the song’s themes that are simultaneously impressive and ironic, the “XOXO” music video is a testament to Schmidt’s signature creative attitude and growth as an artist.
“XOXO” by Camille Schmidt is out now and Nude #9 is slated for release on January 10. To keep up with Camille Schmidt’s current works and future endeavors, check out her official website here.
NYC-based singer-songwriter Ren Genevieve has released her latest single “forts,” an extremely intimate track that illustrates the cycle of growing up and outgrowing relationships. “forts” delves into themes of nostalgia, sadness, and the heartfelt yet inevitable nature of change and growing up.
“forts” is the feeling one gets when they are deep in reminiscing about being a child and how it is to navigate life as a full-time adult. The track draws listeners in, tugging at their heartstrings and allowing them to connect with their deepest emotions. Ren Genevieve’s approach to songwriting and storytelling is what makes her stand out amongst many, “forts” is a prime example of her mastery. With its expressive and deep-seated lyrics, the track hits home for many listeners, while presenting a relatable angle on the struggles of adulthood and how it re-molds past connections people had. With the blend of soul-touching melodies and soft vocals, Genevieve captures all the elements perfectly.
Born in Boston and raised in New York, Michigan, and Bermuda, Genevieve has always been one for the arts. Genevieve started singing, acting, and dancing at a young age, her college years at NYU were what pushed her to pursue writing and sharing her music. She made a name for herself back when her single “I Like You (I Think)” dropped in February 2022 which was then followed by her second single “tongue-tied” in November 2022. Her first few projects were created to share with her friends and family, however, she took the idea and ran with it to perfect her producing skills. Genevieve’s singles helped pave her way as an ardent introduction to her story.
For more information on Ren Genevieve’s music including her latest single “forts” click here.
Bronx native, hip-hop musician, and professional yo-yoer Richard Pigkaso has released the music video for “Ready, Set, Go,” alongside “Wanna Play With My Yo-Yo?” ahead of the release of the album slated to be his final studio release.
Born in Castle Hill in the Bronx, Richard Pigkaso has been influenced by old school Hip Hop and R&B since youth. Described as a loner and often set apart from the crowd for being marching to the beat of his own drum, Pigkaso found solace and joy in the yoyo.
“It became my creative outlet because I would always be alone – playing video games, going outside and not having many friends. I realized it became something calming for me. Something that allowed me to forget what was going on in my life at that point.”
– Pigkaso
Over time, playing with the classic toy grew from a simple hobby to an impressive skill he showed off in competitions across the United States- even qualifying in a few international meets. The joy of the yo-yo has never left Pigkaso’s heart, but since graduating from college he saw his horizons broadened with the exciting addition of music as a medium.
Pigkaso’s musical ventures have brought him incredible joy already, but with his upcoming release he hopes to expand his love for the yo-yo and channel his musical roots through a message of love and support for those who struggle to find acceptance within themselves.
Lusus Naturae 3: You’re Beautiful Gorgeous is set to be Pigkaso’s final studio album as an artist, the culmination of both his image as the humble and charismatic yo-yoer and the ambitious emcee inextricably tied to the Bronx.
With a hard-hitting beat and one piece of the culminating lyrical royale that is the album, “Wanna Play With My Yo-Yo?” will excite old listeners and new with its hard-hitting sound.
In addition to the release of “Wanna Play With My Yo-Yo?” is the publication of the official music video for “Ready, Set, Go,” fittingly utilizing sharp editing tricks and an overarching race car driving theme.
Pigkaso’s final studio release Lusus Naturae 3: You’re Beautiful Gorgeous, the culmination of his multidisciplinary skill as a yo-yoer and musician, will release on November 15, 2024.
To learn more about Pigkaso, his past work, and all future ventures, check out his official website here.
The 2024 holiday season is upon us, and along with a spirit of giving and supporting those most in need in our local communities. Jam for Tots will once again be held at venues across New York State, bringing live music fans together for great shows while collecting toys to brighten the spirits of children statewide.
For more than 10 years, Jam for Tots has been held across New York State and the Northeast, where fans are encouraged to bring along with an unwrapped toy for a child (under 13) to drop in the donation box. These toys will be brought to local charities within the venueâs community, to ensure that these toys brighten the day of children within the local area.
Things kick off at Hibernian Hall in Albany on November 15 with One Heart Band. See below for the full lineup of 2024 Jam for Tots shows across New York State (chronological order).
Friday, Nov. 15 – One Heart Band – Hibernian Hall, Albany
Saturday, Nov. 16 – Barry Goudreau’s Engine Room – The Strand Theatre – Hudson Falls
Thursday, Dec. 5 – Open Mic Jam hosted by John Pinder – The Stewart House, Athens
New York City-based indie singer-songwriter and star of Hulu’s Claim to Fame Season 3 Gracie Lou has released her second single, “September.”
Born in California, Gracie Lou Hyland grew up in a home utterly immersed in music. Her parents are both talented singer-songwriters who were once a part of New York unit Girlfriend, which cultivated a love for all things musical in Gracie Lou from an early age.
She spent her younger years performing alongside her parents in their worship band and on the stage with her local church choir, alongside a notable nearly decade-long career in competitive figure skating.
In 2017, Gracie joined the ranks of the Young American College of Performing Arts and spent time touring globally, sharing her passion for music education with countless cultures across the map. The pandemic provided a turning point and quite a bit of newfound downtime, which led Gracie to the guitar. Picking up the instrument on her own and a songwriting venture to boot, Gracie Lou discovered an online resonance with her music that allowed her musical career to begin to bloom.
Relocating to New York City in 2022 to assist her grandmother Gretchen Cryer with the musical “House On Fire,” Gracie took the stage for the first time as a solo singer-songwriter at Rockwood Music Hall in October of 2023.
In addition to her solo ventures, Gracie Lou can be found performing with vintage jazz trio The Satin Dollz, touring as a front and backing vocalist with The Chiclettes, and providing her voice on tour with the Oldies Circuit which notably hosts member Bobby Wilson, son of the legendary Jackie Wilson. Lou is also the co-founder of the “Girl Dinner” all-female cabaret and variety show that celebrates women in the arts.
She recently made a notable appearance on hit Hulu show Claim to Fame hosted by Kevin and Frankie Jonas in which the competitors are challenged with guessing each other’s celebrity relatives, Gracie’s being her uncle- the well-known actor, comedian, and filmmaker Jon Cryer. It was on Claim to Fame where Gracie dazzled television audiences with a performance of an original song.
Soon following was the release of Gracie Lou’s debut single, “to have & to hold.” Self-written, sung, and produced, the track set an exciting precedent for her solo career and capabilities. After the success of her first song officially released to the public, Gracie has returned with her newest track, “September.”
With twinkling piano, the distant hum of crickets, and warm strings, Gracie paints a glowing image of the last bits of warmth held in the month of September. Her utilizations of indie lyricism, jazz homeliness, and folk twang meld perfectly with her hopeful wonderings about what awaits her at the end of the month and how she hopes to change, even if it isn’t a fully formed image quite yet.
“I wrote this during the first month I moved to New York, when nothing in my life felt solid and the future was uncertain. I was tentatively hopeful.”
– Gracie Lou
Following the release of “September,” Gracie will be appearing for a special guest performance on November 20 at fellow musician Blair Lamb’s show at Sanger Hall in Queens. For more information on the show and ticket purchasing, visit Blair’s post about the evening here.
“September” by Gracie Lou is out now. To learn more about the track, watch an archive of her performances, and keep up to date with her latest musical ventures, visit her official website here.
Sam Kogon has released his latest single “America”. The track arrives as a timely commentary on the current political landscape, just as the 2024 election season begins to heat up.
“America” was born during the tumultuous period of COVID-19 lockdowns and widespread protests, capturing the zeitgeist of a nation grappling with its identity and future. The song’s lyrics touch on various hot-button issues, from voting rights and social justice to healthcare and reparations, all wrapped in Kogon’s signature blend of catchy melodies and thought-provoking wordplay. This single is a precursor to whatâs next for Kogon, who recently completed recording a full album’s worth of material with Agnello this past spring.
This new body of work promises to build on the success of his previous releases, including his self-titled EP from 2022, which garnered critical acclaim and expanded his fanbase. Kogon has collaborated with notable artists throughout his career, including Al Jardine of The Beach Boys and Grammy Award nominee Patty Smyth. He also fronted the revived baroque pop group The Left Banke, known for their classic hit “Walk Away Renee.” These experiences have enriched Kogon’s musical palette, allowing him to blend influences from various genres into his own unique sound.
The track was co-produced by Jeff Berrall of the band Caveman and Zach Brewer, with Sam Kogon himself also taking on production duties. It features Kogon’s own vocals, guitar, and organ, alongside Graeme Gengras on piano and the rhythm section of Caveman providing bass and drums. The song was mixed by industry veteran John Agnello, whose credits include Dinosaur Jr. and Kurt Vile, adding a polished sheen to Kogon’s raw, emotive style.
With its timely release and politically charged lyrics, “America” is poised to resonate with listeners as they navigate the complex landscape of the upcoming election year. The chorus encapsulates the frustration and hope that many Americans are feeling: “You bought it, you broke it / How come nothing gets done right around here? / You built it, now fix it / We can’t wait another 4 more years.”
For more information on Sam Kogon’s music and to listen to his latest single, click here.
Pat Tato has announced the first release with his band, Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes, titled “Spaceship”.
Born out of the local SUNY Oneonta music scene in 2013, Pat Tato & the Baked Potatoes released their debut album ‘Loaded’ in 2016 after their graduation and were met with critical acclaim.
Following this release, however, the unit found themselves in a hiatus as the original members moved throughout the country to pursue their own paths. Titular member Pat continued to play music and shifted to solo releases over the years with a different, lyrical, and ambitious sound.
Cobbling together a new band, Pat Tato has emerged on festival circuits with a mixed set list of his newer works and older Baked Potato songs, evolving into the new sound has become uniquely ‘Pat Tato & the Baked Potatoes’.
In an exciting announcement for fans old and new, the upcoming single “Spaceship” marks Tato’s newest release since “Heady” earlier this summer, and even more excitingly acts as the Baked Potatoes’ triumphant return to music- the track being their first release since 2016.
Recorded in Syracuse Sound Studios in Brewerton paired with visuals by Danny of Guava God Creative, “Spaceship” indicates a bright, energetic new era for the group.
With vibrant horns from Dan O’Herien and Sigurjon Stefansson, adventurous keys from Alex Seubert, kicking percussion from Joey Wise, earworm bass licks from Shannon Zory, playful lyrics and vocals from Pat Tato himself, and more, “Spaceship” invites the listener on a journey of self-reflection, escapism, and the road to healing- that is, if the adventure also consisted of absolutely jamming out while rocketing through space.
“Spaceship” is set to be released on October 24- to receive a notification and become one of the first to hear the Baked Potatoes’ triumphant return to with this new track, be sure to follow Pat Tato on Spotify here.
To learn more about Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes, keep up to date with their latest events, and follow their social media, please visit here.
Kingston, New York is steeped in history. Once the ancestral lands of the Munsee people, it became a permanent settlement for Dutch colonists in 1652 and designating as New York State’s first capital in 1777.
Keegan Ales, O+ Festival 2024
Fast forwarding to today, this thriving HudsonValley community now serves as the base for O+ (pronounced O Positive), a non-profit organization creating its own history with a unique paradigm: artists exchanging their art for medical care.
Eat the Cake Band, Keegan Ales
From October 11-13th 2024, Kingston hosted O+’s annual festival, now in its fourteenth year. The three-day event raised awareness and funds for the organization, offering an immersive gathering of musicians, writers, dancers, spoken-word performers, and visual artists. In exchange for their contributions, participating artists received healthcare services.
Kate Pierson, Old Dutch Church
The festivities kicked off Friday night with a parade starting at Keegan Ales. With their three stages, Keegan Ales served as a musical hub, offering a wide range of musical experiences—from metal and rock to hip hop, house, and techno.
When artists and musicians thrive, so do culture and our communities.
O+ vision
The Old Dutch Church, a historical landmark dating back to 1659, anchored the festival in Uptown Kingston. Featured performers Neko Case, Rhett Miller & The All Stars, and Kate Pierson graced the church’s stage. Festivalgoers could purchase wristbands for full access to multiple stages, performance spaces, and presentations, all within walking distance of the church.
Sug Daniels, Utility Bicycle Works
One of the festival’s hidden gems was the Utility Bicycle Works stage, tucked away in the back of a local bicycle shop. Though the room was small, it offered an intimate atmosphere that amplified the performances. Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter Sug Daniels bared her soul to a captivated audience. The six-piece band King in Yellow defied the space’s physical limitations with their commanding presence.
TR33S, Keegan Ales Back Room
On Sunday night at the Old Dutch Church, O+ concluded with a special screening and panel discussion of The Blair Witch Project which coincided with the film’s 25th anniversary. Moderated by actress and musician Amanda Seyfried, the panel featured director Ed Sanchez and actors Joshua Leonard and Michael C. Williams.
Rhett Miller and The All Stars
O+’s vision remains clear: “When artists and musicians thrive, so do culture and our communities.” With fourteen years of Arts for Healing under its belt, O+ is not only adding to Kingston’s legacy but is actively shaping its future.
Brooklyn-born country artist and songwriter Jessica Lynn has released the sixth and final pre-release single from her upcoming album All I Own, “Something ‘Bout You.”
Jessica Lynn’s connection to country and passion for combining music with philanthropy runs deep. With talents in piano, harmonica, drums, guitar, and vocals, she’s a musical force to be reckoned with. Brooklyn-born and community focused, Lynn regularly brought her musical performance to local children’s hospitals and nursing homes.
Eventually, her skills landed her at PBS where she performed concert specials for the network alongside an intense touring schedule where she shared the stage with the likes of Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Loretta Lynn, ZZ Top, Richard Marx, and the list goes on.
In 2020, Lynn’s giving spirit was recognized through her employment by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs as a consultant to their American Voices program and a member of American Music Abroad, a project that has brought her across the globe as a musical ambassador for the country. In addition to performing, Lynn teaches a course titled “Tips & Tricks for The Independent Musician” that helps to ensure young musicians have equal opportunity in the music industry regardless of their roots.
Following her 2022 album Lone Rider, Lynn found herself struggling with a bout of postoperative complications from a routine sinus surgery that would develop into muscle tension dysphonia, or MTD. For many musicians and vocalists, MTD can spell the beginning of the end for their careers and voices as a whole – and yet Lynn persevered.
Her latest project and upcoming album All I Own is a testament to Jessica’s determination and refusal to lose something as precious to her as music. Recorded in 10-minute bursts of vocal effort, she channeled the weight of her recovery journey into every second of the tracks. Exploring double meanings and invitations for reflection in the listeners while fighting through her vocal injury determinedly, each of the ten tracks contains an overflow of emotion and a resolve to be heard.
“I started singing as soon as I could talk and I started my first band when I was 13. Music is all I’ve ever known and the thought of potentially never being able to sing normally again was a feeling I couldn’t quite put into words.”
– Jessica Lynn
All I Own has been officially announced for release on January 17, 2025, along with the publishing of the album’s final pre-release single “Something ‘Bout You.” Inspired by her experiences with her husband, Lynn’s newest single encapsulates the feeling of falling in love and experiencing incredible adventures alongside another person in the hopes of bringing listeners back to a special time of their own.
Complete with an insightful and personal tour diary style music video, the song’s warm and uplifting energy shines even brighter through on-stage shenanigans and adventures through Europe. While the kind of love Lynn writes about in “Something ‘Bout You” may have been romantic, the affection felt from fans around the world and the obvious adoration she holds for bringing her music to life on stage elevates the video even further.
The full ten tracks of All I Own are set to be released in January with “Something ‘Bout You” being the final single prior to the complete project- listen here.
Prior to the album’s release and coinciding with her annual A Very Merry Classic Christmas tour, Lynn will be releasing a four-song live EP of tracks from the show with all proceeds from the project going to support Toys for Tots, the same organization she partners with to spread her philosophy of equal opportunity for all young musicians and artists every year during the Christmas themed tour.
Complete with the talents of local musicians and dancers of each and every stop, tickets to Lynn’s A Very Merry Classic Christmas tour are on sale now. The full list of tour dates is below, including a total of four dates throughout New York State. For more information, ticket purchasing and keeping up on the latest on Jessica Lynn, visit her website here.
TOUR DATES
Weds, November 27: The Marilyn Performing Arts Center – Foxborough, MA
Fri, November 29: The Marilyn Performing Arts Center – Foxborough, MA
Sat, November 30: The Warner Theatre – Torrington, CT
Sun, December 1: The Newton Theatre – Newton, NJ
Weds, December 4: The Jefferson Center – Roanoke, VA
Fri, December 6: The Colonial Theatre – Phoenixville, PA
Sat, December 7: The Sherman Theater – Stroudsburg, PA
Sun, December 8: The State Theatre – Ithaca, NY
Tues, December 10: The Palace Theater – Syracuse, NY
Sat, December 14: The Paramount Theater Hudson Valley – Peekskill, NY
Sun, December 15: The Paramount Theater Hudson Valley – Peekskill, NY
Fri, December 20: The Acorn Center – Littleton, NC
Sat, December 21: The Acorn Center – Littleton, NC
Sun, December 22: The Acorn Center – Littleton, NC
