Riot Fest has announced the lineup of its 2024 festival, along with a new venue and adventure experience, “RiotLand.” The festival is located in Chicago and, for the first time, will be held at the SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview.
This year, over 90 performers will take the stage over the span of three days. From September 20 through the 22, Riot Fest brings a top-tier lineup of punk-rock and alternative powerhouses and a fun, fully immersive theme park to the village of Bridgeview.
Headlining performances include hometown favorites Fall Out Boy, who make their first return to Riot Fest since their performance in 2013, Beck with special guest Pavement, and a reunion show from metal legends Slayer, who will be closing out the festival on Sunday, September 22.
This year, Riot Fest hosts about 90 different artists, ranging from some of the biggest names in rock to up-and-coming artists. Rock band NOFX will be celebrating their last hoorah with Riot Fest, putting on show-stopping performances for the entire weekend. Something Corporate will play their first Chicago show since 2010. Attendees will also get to experience the reunion of the iconic hip-hop group Public Enemy. Also making a comeback this year is Slayer, who will be closing out the show on Sunday. Fans can also witness a rare live performance from Dr. Dog, who retired from full-time touring in 2021.
For fans of reggae and ska, The Marley Brothers, featuring Ziggy, Stephen, Julian, Ky-Mani, and Damian, are performing a full Bob Marley tribute set along with original music. The full album plays this year are The Offspring playing “Smash,” Manchester Orchestra playing “Cope,” and Mastodon performing their classic, “Leviathan.”
For the first time, Riot Fest will also be including the aforementioned “RiotLand,” an immersive “Choose Your Own Adventure” experience. Activities include a casino, a gay punk and dance club, carnival games, and more. RiotLand also features a wide variety of concessions, including the World’s Largest Festival Bar, Professor Pizza, and Nihilist Arby’s. RiotLand features fan favorites from years past, including the Wedding Chapel, the Riot Pop!!, Skate Ramp, free arcade games, Professor Pizza, the rock-n-roll circus freak show Hellzapoppin Circus, mini golf, and more.
Founded in 2005 by Mike Petryshyn and Sean McKeough, Riot Fest showcases the best and biggest names in the alternative rock scene. In the almost 20 years since its inception, the fest has brought in crowds of thousands each day. This year, the festival expects to draw in approximately 50,000 people each day.
Tickets are now on sale for Riot Fest 2024 and can be purchased through the festival’s website. Options for 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day tickets are all available.
Dreamer Boy is the alter ego of Zach Taylor, a rising star in the indie pop scene known for his dreamy soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics. Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Dreamer Boy blends elements of lo-fi pop, bedroom pop, and indie rock to create a unique musical experience that resonates with listeners across various genres. His music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and nostalgia, wrapped in lush, atmospheric production.
Dreamer Boy released his debut album Love, Nostalgia in 2018, receiving praise for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound. Following this, he released All the Ways We Are Together in 2021, further establishing his presence in the indie music world. Dreamer Boy’s ability to craft emotionally resonant songs with a laid-back vibe has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Dreamer Boy’s performance at Baby’s All Right in Brooklyn on June 11th was nothing short of magical, marking his triumphant return to New York City with a late-night show that left the audience enchanted and wanting more.
Eager fans filled the intimate venue to capacity, creating an electric atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for Dreamer Boy’s unique blend of indie pop. As the lights dimmed and the first notes filled the room, Zach Taylor, adorned in a painted clown face with a giant star over his eye, cowboy hat, and cowboy boots, took the stage with an infectious energy.
A Cowboy’s Charm
One of the most endearing aspects of Dreamer Boy’s performance was his playful and carefree demeanor. Throughout the night, he delighted the crowd with goofy little dance moves, his cowboy boots adding a whimsical touch to his already charming stage presence. His lightheartedness was contagious, and the audience couldn’t help but smile and dance along with him.
Audience Participation
Dreamer Boy’s interaction with the audience was a highlight of the night. He exclaimed early in the set, “We made it to the big city!” which the crowd met with enthusiastic cheers. His genuine excitement and gratitude for being in New York City were palpable, adding a layer of authenticity to his performance.
At one point, he playfully asked the crowd, “Can I get a yeehaw?” The audience responded with a resounding “Yeehaw!” that echoed through the venue, solidifying the bond between the artist and his fans. Later in the night, he expressed his appreciation by saying, “Thanks for having us yâall, this is too fun, this is too fun,” capturing the joyous spirit of the evening.
Dreamer Boy’s setlist for the night included a mix of fan favorites and newer tracks, each performed with an emotional depth that drew the audience in. His vocals, layered over dreamy instrumentals, created a sonic landscape that transported listeners to a place of introspection and bliss. Songs like “Falling for the Wrong One” and “Crybaby” showcased his lyrical prowess and ability to connect with the audience on a personal level.
The intimate venue allowed a close connection between Dreamer Boy and his fans, making the performance feel shared. Dreamy visuals and ambient lighting enhanced the show’s ethereal vibe, creating a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complemented his music.
Dreamer Boy’s show at Baby’s All Right showcased his growth as an artist. His playful personality and engaging presence stood out. Heartfelt music and fun moments made the performance emotionally resonant. As he rises in indie music, Dreamer Boy’s unique sound and genuine audience connection shine. Fans left the venue smiling and with hearts full of his dreamy melodies. They eagerly anticipate his next visit to the big city.
Melanie Martinez’s return to New York City on June 5th for her Trilogy Tour at Madison Square Garden (Night One) marked a significant moment for the artist and her fans. Following her memorable performance at Radio City Music Hall last year, Melanie once again captivated her audience with a meticulously crafted show that highlighted her evolution as an artist.
As a native New Yorker, she played to a packed arena filled with passionate fans of all genders and ages; a true testament to her enduring appeal and artistic vision.
Melanie Martinez 6/5/2024. Photo by Emma Goldschmidt
Melanie Martinez: An Album Retrospective
Martinez’s Trilogy Tour followed her journey as an artist through her 3 existing albums: Crybaby, K-12, and Portals. Her debut studio album, Cry Baby, was released in 2015. It was a concept album that told the story of a character named Cry Baby through whimsical yet dark songs.
Her sophomore album, K-12, released in 2019. This continued the story ofCry Babywith a corresponding feature film; showcasing Melanie’s talents not just as a musician but also as a filmmaker and storyteller.
In 2022, Portals explored themes of rebirth and transformation, marked by an ethereal and otherworldly aesthetic. Known for her theatrical live performances, Melanie’s concerts are immersive experiences that blend music, visual art, and storytelling.
Melanie Martinez 6/5/2024. Photo by Emma Goldschmidt
Album 1: Crybaby
The concert began with a bang as Melanie appeared on an elevated platform for “Crybaby,” dressed in a pink cotton dress surrounded by dancers in bunny ears and “crybaby” costumes. The stage backdrop featured cradle imagery, setting the tone for the whimsical and dark narrative that defines the Crybaby album. Fans dressed in elf ears, dresses, and bows screamed in delight as the platform gradually lowered, seamlessly transitioning into “Doll House.” Here, Melanie and her dancers performed a doll-like choreography, with expressive movements that visually spelled out “d-o-l-l-h-o-u-s-e.”
The attention to detail continued with “Sippy Cup,” where her dress swayed to the beat as she reached the main stage. The show maintained its high energy with “Carousel,” featuring a two-headed rabbit carousel and pyrotechnics that mirrored the burning carousel imagery. For “Alphabet Boy,” Melanie rose on a platform stylized as alphabet blocks. During “Soap,” actual bubbles filled the stage, enchanting the audience.
“Pity Party” brought inflatable candles to the stage, with heart-shaped balloons falling from the ceiling during the song’s climax. Melanie’s playful use of a pink axe added a dramatic flair, much to the crowd’s delight. The first album segment concluded with “Play Date” and “Mad Hatter,” with Melanie disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
Melanie Martinez 6/5/2024. Photo by Emma Goldschmidt
Album 2: K-12
Transitioning into the K-12 segment, the stage transformed into a school bus that landed in front of a school backdrop, revealing Melanie in her schoolgirl costume. The nostalgic “Wheels on the Bus” set the stage for the school-themed songs, including “Class Fight,” where Melanie and a dancer balanced on a seesaw.
“Show and Tell” saw Melanie as a marionette, complete with ribbons tied to her wrists, which she dramatically broke free from at the song’s end. The theatricality continued with “Nurses Office,” where Melanie was wheeled out on a gurney by dancers dressed as nurses. “Strawberry Shortcake” featured Melanie on a platform stylized as a strawberry shortcake, glowing ethereally.
“Lunchbox Friends” depicted a narrative acted out by dancers, while “Teacherâs Pet” was a solo performance with Melanie emerging from a desk, rolling on the ground, and utilizing fire pyrotechnics. “High School Sweethearts” featured dancers parading with lit-up sweetheart candies bearing cheeky messages, culminating with Melanie being “shot” by a cupid’s arrow on screen and lowered beneath the stage.
Melanie Martinez 6/5/2024. Photo by Emma Goldschmidt
Album 3: Portals
The final segment, focusing on the Portals album, began with “DEATH,” aligning with the theme of rebirth. Melanie appeared in a floral, earthy dress with a fairy/alien mask, surrounded by dancers in minimalist forest nymph attire. The stage transformed into a cemetery, complete with giant headstones and a gate opening on the screen.
In “VOID,” Melanie danced with her mask on against a backdrop of a wispy black void. “TUNNEL VISION” featured a light ring that followed her, creating a mesmerizing effect. “FAERIE SOIREE” brought inflatable mushrooms to the stage, while “LIGHT SHOWER” had Melanie sitting on a giant slug prop, twirling gracefully.
“SPIDER WEB” saw Melanie donning wings on a platform, accompanied by a dancer in a fly costume, portraying a passionate young fan. “BATTLE OF THE LARYNX” was a dramatic solo performance where Melanie wielded a sword against a dragon on screen, complete with intense fire pyrotechnics.
Melanie Martinez 6/5/2024. Photo by Emma Goldschmidt
Night One of Melanie Martinezâs Madison Square Garden run was a spectacular blend of music, theatrics, and storytelling. Each song was a meticulously crafted experience, demonstrating Melanieâs unparalleled attention to detail and artistic integrity. From her set designs and elaborate costumes to her dynamic choreography and powerful vocals, Melanie proved why she remains a trailblazer in the music industry. Her return to New York was nothing short of triumphant, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what she will create next.
On May 24, Manhattan-based indie pop artist Macinizby released her debut single, “Closet.” The thoughtfully crafted single tells the coming-of-age story of a queer person finding their way through life, love, and heartbreak.
Released right before the beginning of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, “Closet” opens the door for the next generation of queer artists and musicians to come into the spotlight.
Photo Credit: Hellen Elizondo
Before her solo debut, Macinizby had already built a reputation for herself as a drummer in the city’s indie rock scene, playing with acts such as Bec Lauder and The Noise, Breaker, and Rose Paradise. However, unlike her work as a group performer, “Closet” gives us a deeply personal perspective of who Macinizby is, not only as an artist but as an individual, writer, and producer.
Produced alongside Jacob Geoffrey, “Closet” stands out from Macinizby’s past indie rock records with her group acts. The single acts as a method of storytelling for Macinizby. It’s hard to ignore the passion in her voice, let alone the meaningfulness of the lyrics. Reminiscent of the early days of Avril Lavigne and other pop-rock artists of the early 2000s, Macinizby puts her own creative spin on a classic teen love story.
The steady guitar riffs, coming-of-age angst, and bouncy vocal melody brings this song back, while the storyline brings us into the modern day. With “Closet,” time travel is absolutely possible. Any listener instantly feels as if they’ve traveled in time to a music video from 20 years ago. Macinizby’s “Closet” is a great way to introduce new audiences to the pop-rock genre.
As for the storyline, it is clear from the beginning what the artist is trying to convey. The struggles of a queer relationship are highlighted very poignantly. Yet, there is a sense of comfort that Macinizby’s lyrics and voice provide. Even in a situation as difficult as m maintaining a relationship, there is still hope. Love may or may not be the end result, but while it is there, it’s best if we enjoy it.
Get ready to rock…but also be prepared to shed some gay tears.
Macinizby
For now, we must wait. But, there is no doubt that Macinizby’s new song, and solo career, are highly anticipated. Fans can listen to “Closet” on all major streaming platforms, as well as with this link.
The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame 53rd Annual Induction and Awards Dinner once again took New York City by storm on the evening of June 13, 2024.
Opening with remarks by SHOF Board Member and Show Committee Chair Evan Lamberg, the Gala recognized and honored the immeasurable impact of some of the most legendary songwriters of our time.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: Carrie Underwood speaks onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
The evening was a dazzling spectacle as musical icons Hillary Lindsey, Timothy Mosley p/k/a Timbaland, Dean Pitchford, Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe p/k/a R.E.M., and Walter Becker and Donald Fagan p/k/a Steely Dan were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Master songwriter and multi-award-winner Diane Warren received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and 4X GRAMMY award-winning recording artist SZA received the Hal David Starlight Award. The night also followed the posthumous induction of legendary country songwriter Cindy Walker to the SHOF for her remarkable contributions to the world of music in a special tribute held at a SHOF Master Session in Nashville.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: Trey Anastasio performs onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
The Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner, year after year, is a stunning night full of spectacular moments honoring the art of songwriting. The evening kicked off with a special performance of Irena Cara’s “Fame,” performed by 2024 Abe Olman Scholarship recipients Rodney Chrome, Molly Kate Kestner, Sierra “Spirit” Kihega, Ava Liv Mabry, and Matilda Marigolds. 4X GRAMMY award-winning recording artist Deniece Williams then took the stage to begin the induction of Oscar-winning and multi-GRAMMY and Tony-nominated songwriter Dean Pitchford. Williams performed her 1984 hit “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” of Footloose fame, which had the whole crowd clapping to the rhythm. Multi-award-winning actor Kevin Bacon and musician Michael Bacon, who together form The Bacon Brothers, then continued the party, bringing the house to their feet for an electrifying performance of “Footloose” that put Kevin Back in the dancing shoes of his former role. The brothers then inducted Dean, saying his writing has “inspired all of us to reach for our dreams.” Following his induction, Dean performed “Once Before I Go,” a piano-backed, emotional retrospective, fitting for such a momentous occasion.
Renowned manager Irving Azoff began the honors for Steely Dan, naming them “among the best bands ever” and claiming that “their records will be recognized as iconic for the rest of time.” Singer-songwriter and lead guitarist of Phish, Trey Anastasio, then took the stage to perform a medley of Steely Dan hits. The funk-infused “Kid Charlemagne” blended seamlessly into the famous riffs of the timeless, swinging groove of “Reelin’ In the Years.” Trey then inducted Donald Fagan and Walter Becker, stating that together, “they created a body of work that defied categorization – masterful, thought-provoking, elegantly melodic songs filled with beautifully flawed, deeply human and believable characters.”
Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and 6X GRAMMY award-winning musician Nile Rodgers took the stage next to honor SZA with the Hal David Starlight Award, which is presented to young songwriters making a significant impact in the music industry with their original songs. Nile praised her abilities as a composer, which “manage the amazing feat of being ethereal and keeping it real at the same time.” The 4X GRAMMY award-winning recording artist then performed an intimate, acoustic performance of her hit “Snooze” from her breakthrough sophomore album SOS, and claimed that receiving this award “validates [her] entire career.”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: (L-R) Carrie Underwood, Clive Davis and Diane Warren attend the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
Next to the stage was 8X GRAMMY award-winning country superstar Carrie Underwood who kicked off the induction for Hillary Lindsey with a powerful performance of “Jesus Take the Wheel” from her debut album Some Hearts. Carrie bestowed the title “queen of modern Nashville songwriting” to Hillary and 4X GRAMMY-winning musician Keith Urban joined her on stage for the induction. Hillary then performed a stripped down medley of the songs she penned, with a rendition of Lady Gaga’s “Million Reasons” which turned into a duet with Keith Urban joining her for “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” his electric guitar perfectly complimenting her bared-down acoustic melodies.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: Timbaland speaks onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
4X GRAMMY-winner and SHOF inductee Missy Elliot took the stage next to induct her frequent collaborator and friend Timbaland, crediting the fellow 4X GRAMMY-winning rapper and producer with “changing the cadence of hip-hop.”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: Timbaland conducts onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
On his induction, Timbaland claimed it to be the “best award [he] could ever get,” before he performed a victory lap of the hits that brought him here, energizing the room with a medley of “Big Pimpin’,” “Pony,” “SexyBack,” “Get Your Freak On,” “Drunk in Love,” “Promiscuous,” and “Suit & Tie.”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: (L-R) Mike Mills, Michael Stipe, Bill Berry and Peter Buck, of R.E.M., perform onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
R.E.M. had the last induction of the evening, led by 6X GRAMMY award-winning singer, songwriter, and actor Jason Isbell who performed the band’s 1987 song “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine).” With his guitar in overdrive, the high energy, quick-flying alternative rocker lit up the room. The band then performed for the first time together in 15 years, playing their multi-GRAMMY award -winning hit “Losing My Religion,” which enthralled the audience with a mesmerizing, mandolin-driven performance.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 13: Michael Stipe, of R.E.M., perform onstage during the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
The program neared the finale with the presentation of the Johnny Mercer Award to Diane Warren, the highest honor bestowed by Songwriters Hall of Fame. Multi-award-winning songwriter, SHOF inductee, and Johnny Mercer Award recipient Paul Williams presented the award, claiming “A.I. worries about Diane Warren.” GRAMMY and EMMY award-winning singer and songwriter Andra Day put on a rousing performance of her Oscar-nominated song “Stand Up for Something” from the 2017 film Marshal, with her soaring vocals giving the evening wings.
On accepting her award, Diane stated “songwriting isn’t something I do, it’s who I am and what I live and breathe for every day of my life.” 5X GRAMMY award nominee El Debarge then closed out the evening, performing “Rhythm of the Night,” Diane’s first hit song,coinciding with the song’s 40th anniversary and bringing the room to their feet, stomping and clapping as the ceremony closed with a bang.
NYC Band Rebounder is back with new music, starting with a cover of “Born In The USA” by Bruce Springsteen.
Patrick Holland from the Canadian indie-rock band TOPS, co-produced and mixed the unique spin on the classic song just in time for the 40th anniversary of the original album. The song is a slower toned-down version of the Springsteen song. Instead of classic American rock, it’s an indie-lofi song. “Born In The USA” is accompanied by a DIY style music video featuring American scenes of highways, cityscapes and rural farmland.
In 2020, Rebounder put their name on the map when they released their first EP, Subway Songs, including the song “Japanese Posters,” which gained 23 million streams on Spotify. In 2021, they released “Change Shapes” in collaboration with Jesse Rutherford. They’ve also collaborated with Chris Thompson of Vampire Weekend on production and toured with Phoenix, MUNA, Dayglow and Cautious Clay. The band’s frontman is Dylan Chenfeld. He, his brother Noah Chenfeld and their childhood friends Zack Kantor and Cobey Arner make up Rebounder.
Fans can expect more from them as their second studio EP Sunset Vision is set to release on Aug 15. Watch the video for Rebounder’s cover of “Born in the USA’ below.
The All Things Go music festival is making its NYC debut in 2024, adding to its already impressive legacy with an inaugural event at Forest Hills Stadium. Taking place on September 28th – 29th, this marks the festival’s expansion beyond its DC-area roots, where it will celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Stellar Lineup for All Things Go NYC
Headlining this year’s New York lineup are powerhouse performers Reneé Rapp, Janelle Monáe, Chappell Roan, MUNA, Ethel Cain, and Julien Baker. The festival continues its tradition of showcasing a diverse and inclusive range of artists, with performances from Holly Humberstone, Del Water Gap, Towa Bird, and more. This female and non-binary-focused lineup underscores All Things Go’s commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive spaces within the music community.
boygenius 2023
A Festival for the Forward-Thinking
All Things Go has always been more than just a music festival. Since founding in 2011 in Washington, DC, it has dedicated itself to creating forward-thinking digital and live music experiences. The festival has collaborated with a slew of innovative artists, including Billie Eilish, boygenius, Lana Del Rey, Lorde, Mitski, HAIM, Janelle Monáe, Charli XCX, MUNA, Lizzy McAlpine, Carly Rae Jepsen, Bleachers, and Tove Lo, among others.
Lana Del Ray 2023
A Celebration of Inclusivity and Community
All Things Go has cultivated a renowned community of devoted fans who embrace inclusivity and diversity, embodying the festival’s ethos. This spirit of community and celebration of underrepresented voices has earned the festival accolades and recognition over its 10 year history.
Maggie Rogers 2023
Tickets and More
For eager fans looking to secure their spots, tickets for the New York edition of All Things Go will go on sale on Friday, June 14th, at 10 AM ET. Purchase tickets through the festival’s official website at allthingsgofestival.com. Given the festival’s history of rapid sell-outs and the stellar lineup, we highly recommend early ticket purchases.
Muna 2023
As All Things Go prepares to launch its first New York festival, anticipation is high for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend. With a lineup featuring both heavy-hitters and emerging talents, and a continued commitment to creating inclusive and forward-thinking music experiences, All Things Go NYC is set to become a staple in the city’s vibrant festival scene. Stay tuned to your favorite music news sources for more updates and get ready to be part of music history this September at Forest Hills Stadium.
New York City-based trans pop artist Ellie will release her upcoming EP, Forbidden Fruit, on June 14. She will release her newest single, “Not Like Other Girls,” on Tuesday, June 11.
Along with the release of her EP, Ellie will be hosting a free release show at Rockwood Music Hall, located in the Bowery neighborhood of Manhattan. The show will take place on Thursday, June 13, at 9 pm.
As a trans woman, Ellie uses “Not Like Other Girls” as a response to the nationwide increase of transphobic rhetoric. The idea of her being “not like other girls” plays a cheeky spin on the popular phrase used to tear women down.
In the song, Ellie jokes, “I’m not like other girls, I’m worse.” With the chorus, she manages to send a sarcastic message to everyone with strict and bigoted expectations of women and trans people.
So many people (the majority of which are cis) have LOTS to say about trans people. So, why not talk back for once?
Ellie
The tense themes that are in “Not Like Other Girls” extend throughout the EP. The single discusses the expectations of what women should be, which are oftentimes exclusionary of transgender women.
One of the most eye-opening lyrics is actually one of Ellie’s favorites: “Make all your friends turn to envious wrecks as they question the dogmas they bark.” The line implies that by defying society’s expectations, people will begin to wonder why they exist in the first place. Questioning society is exactly the point.
With the help of fast-paced, energetic pop-rock, Ellie’s single and EP send a relatable, funny message anyone could enjoy. The heavy rock music behind Ellie’s vocals emphasizes the intensity and frustration of the song’s message.
Join Ellie on June 13 at Rockwood Music Hall in Bowery, Manhattan, for a free release party! The venue is located right off the F train stop on 2 Av.
Ellie’s Forbidden Fruit will be available on all streaming platforms starting June 14th. For the full EP, fans can visit here.
Singer-songwriter Sarah De Vallière’s deeply personal concept album, The Healing, was released on June 7.
The album is a genre blending, ten song project that explores De Vallière’s grief and trauma during a harsh time in her life, including divorce and Covid-19 lockdown. Members of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra collaborated on the album giving its unique blend of classical and Jazz, paying homage to De Vallière’s background in music. The Healing is jazz-inflected Americana.
De Vallière is a classically trained pianist and graduate of Berklee college of music. Although she moved to Rochester in 2018, she grew up in Providence, RI, always surrounded by music. Her father was a pastor and therefore her upbringing in the church had a big impact on her musical development. She played piano in the congregation multiple times a week and she was writing her own compositions by the time she was a teenager.
In 2024, De Vallière released four singles, all of which will appear on the upcoming album. “All is Not Lost,” her most recent single is more upbeat and uplifting than her earlier repertoire. As the title suggests, the song depicts the confidence she regains through her trauma. The Healing exposes De Vallière’s beautiful piano compositions as well as sharp vocals. Her voice has a light feminine sound that can be compared to that of Karen Carpenter or a Disney Princess.
On May 31, the album premiered at Tones Studios, a new recording studio outside of Rochester, NY, which gave fans an opportunity to meet the artist herself and be the first to hear The Healing.
After The Healing is released, Sarah De Vallière will perform in small venues around the greater Rochester area. You can find her music on all streaming platforms.
Syracuse is set to welcome My Morning Jacket and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats at Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview on Tuesday, September 24 for the 2024 Eye to Eye Tour.
My Morning Jacket, Palace Theatre, October 2023 – photo by Daniel Bocchinno
My Morning Jacket and the non–profit REVERB are partnering on these fall headlining tour dates to reduce the environmental footprint of their tour and take action on the climate crisis, as well as on the co-headline tour with Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats.
In addition to a comprehensive tour sustainability program and fan Action Village at each show, the bands will be supporting REVERB’s climate portfolio which funds projects that measurably reduce greenhouse gas pollution, address climate justice, and directly decarbonize the music industry.
Fresh off an amazing sold-out four-night stand at San Francisco’ CA’s legendary Fillmore Auditorium, My Morning Jacket have announced four fall 2024 headline shows, with special guests S.G. Goodman (September 30th and October 1st) and Jade Bird (October 3rd and 4th).
MY MORNING JACKET FALL 2024 HEADLINE SHOWS SEPTEMBER 30 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theatre * OCTOBER 1 – Knoxville TN – Tennessee Theatre * 3 – Richmond VA – Maymont + 4 – Cleveland OH – Cain Park Evans Amphitheater + * w/ Special Guest S.G. Goodman + w/ Special Guest Jade Bird
MY MORNING JACKET // NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS EYE TO EYE TOUR 2024 SEPTEMBER 10 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park 12 – Charleston, SC – Credit One Stadium 13 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion 14 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre 16 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place 18 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater 19 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater 24 – Syracuse, NY – Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview 26 – Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at the Mann 27 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion 28 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park