NYS Music 2024

Category: Genres

  • Circle of Life: The Magic Beans and Squeaky Feet Bring Psychedelic Sounds to Life in Albany Rager

    On Thursday, October 24th, The Magic Beans and Squeaky Feet graced the stage at Lark Hall in Albany, unofficially kicking off an exciting “Phish weekend” with a vibrant and inspired set that encapsulated their unique blend of funk, rock, and psychedelic sounds.

    Performing to a rowdy crowd of enthusiastic music lovers, the show was a testament to the Beans’ growth as a band and their deep connection to the jam band community as a whole. Serving up a thrilling journey through their ever-expanding discography, the evening played out like a fairytale for those looking to dance the night away.

    The Magic Beans kicked off a storybook weekend in Albany on 10/24/2024.

    Kicking off the story proper with a lively opening performance was Squeaky Feet.  Planting the seeds for the memorable night with their energetic, prog-rock inspired grooves and dynamic on-stage presence, the Denver, CO based band also brought along some local pride in the form of guitarist Colin Shore, who formerly played in Albany underground favorite Mister F.  Joined on guitar by Greg King, bassist Jimmy Finnegan, drummer Kevin D’Angelo and keyboard player Brian Keller, Squeaky Feet commanded your attention from the very first note of “Hyrule Temple.”

    Local Pride: Guitarist Colin Shore performing with Squeaky Feet in Albany 10/24/24.

    Locked in and firing on all cylinders, the band really opened things up for exploration on a 16-minute version of “Never Break.” Displaying all kinds of technical skills and chops for days, the near 20 minute “Pantomime,” the opening track from the bands 2023 debut album Cause For Alarm, would reveal itself as the centerpiece of the set. Seamlessly shifting from patient, multilayered improvisation to segments of infectious trance fusion, to triumphant, soaring peak solos that made it all but impossible to stand still, Squeaky Feet played like a well-oiled machine that really listens to what each other is doing.

    Paying homage to their biggest musical influence, one of the most memorable highlights was the bands lengthy tease of Umphrey’s McGee’s “Booth Love” sandwiched inside a sprawling, 20 minute set closing “Premonition.” Drawing in the listener, then peppering them with an explosion of sound and skill, Squeaky Feet showed exactly why they are an emerging force to be reckoned with.

    Squeaky Feet opening for The Magic Beans at Lark Hall 10/24/24.

    After a brief intermission, it was finally time for the Capital Region return of The Magic Beans. Steadily making a name for themselves on the national circuit since their formation in 2010, the Beans have long shown an appreciation for the Albany area, likely due to the fact bassist Chis Duffy grew up in nearby Guilderland.  Along with Duffy, The Magic Beans are comprised of charismatic lead guitarist/vocalist Scott Hachey, keyboard wizard Casey Russell, and drummer Cody Wales.

    Blasting off with a 16 minute “Kid Rocket” opening jam, The Magic Beans quickly established their intentions to take Lark Hall to the stratosphere. The laid back, synth-heavy flow of RevHall would seamlessly transition into a lengthy “Handshake or Hug” jam, showcasing the bands’ ability to weave together diverse influences into an engaging musical journey.

    The Magic Beans performing at Lark Hall Albany on 10/24/2024.

    From here, Scott Hachey would switch out his electric guitar for an acoustic one on the foot-stomping, country tinged “Footprints in the Rain,” before taking the audience on a jazz odyssey through “Do Your Thing.” With the energy in the room growing and the dance floor widening out, perhaps the most impressive sequences of music would come next as a funky 13-minute rendition of “Night Games” would beautifully segue into a standout version of “Dr. Bubbleman,” before returning to the last verse of “Night Games” to complete one hell of an epic jam-sandwich. The crowd was particularly energized during this part of the show, losing their minds to the pulsating rhythms and infectious grooves The Magic Beans have become known for.

    Circle of Life: Magic Beans bassist Chris Duffy grew up in Guilderland, NY..

    One of the most unexpected highlights of the night was a surprise cover of “Circle of Life” from The Lion King soundtrack. Channeling his inner Elton John, this song was particularly potent for bassist Chris Duffy who sang it.  Growing up just one town away, the storybook night felt like a homecoming of sorts for the man with the mohawk, coming full circle after more than a decade of touring with the Beans. Infused with their signature flair, the beloved Disney classic was transformed into a danceable anthem that had the audience singing along to every word, bridging the gap between nostalgia and modern psychedelia.

    Scott Hachey and Casey Russell performing with the Magic Beans in Albany, NY 10/24/24.

    Keeping the positive, life affirming vibes alive, the Magic Beans would offer up the title track of their 2019 album “Off Leash” next, taking the crowd on a spirited, 16-minute funk-fueled ride and ultimately confirming that “This is the part where you feel good.”  Saving up perhaps the grooviest tune of the night for last, a stellar version of “Handcuffs” achieved a massive climax that left fans with their jaws on the floor and fully appreciative of the Beans’ undeniable talents. 

    While it seemed like the show was just about over based on the venue’s weeknight curfew, the adoration for the band was real and sustained and could not be denied. Answering the call for more, The Magic Beans would return to the stage for one last flight to the cosmos with an otherworldly “Space Cadet” to complete the mission and send fans into Phish wondering how any band could top this fantastically fun and inspired performance. The perfect start to an unforgettable weekend in Albany.

    Magic Beans | October 24, 2025 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY

    Setlist: Kid Rocket, Rev Hall > Handshake, Footprints, Do Your Thing, Night Games > Dr. Bubbleman > Night Games, Circle of Life, Off Leash, Handcuffs

    Encore: Space Cadet

    Squeaky Feet | October 24, 2025 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY

    Setlist: Hyrule Temple, Never Break, Pantomime, Premonition

  • Dave Chappelle + Killer Mike To Hit MSG in Co-headlining Tour

    Dave Chappelle + Killer Mike will join together for ‘Still Talkin That SH*T!’ their 2024 national tour. The duo will hit The Theater at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, Nov. 21.

    DAVE CHAPPELLE + KILLER MIKE

    Comedic legend Dave Chappelle, the 2019 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, a five-time Emmy winner, and three-time Grammy winner for Best Comedy Album, is generally considered one of the greatest comedians of all time. For the first time, he will be joined by rapper, entrepreneur, and activist, Killer Mike. His most recent album MICHAEL, earned him three Grammy Awards, and BET’s Album of the Year award for its complex portrait of Black southern masculinity.  Together with the Mighty Midnight Revival, they have announced their co-headlining 2024 tour. The seven-city cross-country tour will feature a fusion of music and comedy across a joint set that will stop at Madison Square Garden a week before Thanksgiving.

    This event will be a phone-free experience. Upon arrival at the venue, all phones, smartwatches, and accessories will be secured in individual Yondr pouches, which will be unlocked at the end of the event. Guests will maintain possession of their devices at all times and can access them throughout the event only in designated Phone Use Areas within the venue.

    Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster. 

    Dave Chappelle + Killer Mike 2024 Full Tour Dates: 

    Fri Nov 15 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre

    Sun Nov 17 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre 

    Mon Nov 18 – Rosemont, IL – Rosemont Theatre

    Wed Nov 20 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway 

    Thu Nov 21  – New York, NY –  The Theater at Madison Square Garden

    Sat Nov 23 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre

    Sun Nov 24 – Long Beach, CA – Long Beach Terrace Theater

  • Cymande’s Triumphant Return: Getting It Back Documentary and New Album Renascence Reignite a Legacy

    On October 30, I had the privilege of attending a special screening at Ludlow House in NYC for Getting It Back: The Story of Cymande, an empowering documentary directed by Tim Mackenzie-Smith.

    This award-winning director crafted a story that not only celebrates Cymande’s musical legacy but also underscores their impact on generations of artists, particularly within hip-hop and funk. Featuring interviews with music legends and influencers like Mark Ronson, DJ Maseo of De La Soul, Jazzie B from Soul II Soul, and Jim James of My Morning Jacket, the documentary brings together a chorus of voices who attest to Cymande’s enduring influence. Mackenzie-Smith’s film premiered at SXSW in 2022 and has since traveled widely, introducing new audiences to the “Cym-aissance,” as Total Film put it.

    The screening was a powerful reminder of how Cymande’s fusion of funk, jazz, soul, and reggae created a sound with staying power. With breakout tracks like “Bra” and “Dove,” Cymande influenced the early hip-hop scene and continue to inspire artists across genres. After seeing their story celebrated in such depth, I was even more excited about the band’s latest news.

    Following their resurgence, Cymande has announced Renascence, their first new album in decades, set to release on January 31, 2025. This album promises a return to their classic sound with a modern twist, reconnecting with the spirit of their 1974 record, Promised Heights. The first single, “Chasing An Empty Dream,” is already out, featuring their trademark grooving basslines and layers of global rhythm. This track captures the band’s socially conscious, hopeful message, as bassist Steve Scipio explained, “It’s a reflection on materialism and the hope for a future where we return to valuing essential, timeless principles.

    Renascence boasts 11 tracks that weave together driving rhythms, saxophone wails, and stirring vocal harmonies. Songs like “Coltrane” and “How We Roll,” featuring Jazzie B, blend classic and contemporary sounds, while ballads like “Only One Way,” sung by Celeste, reveal the band’s softer, introspective side. Longtime members Patrick Patterson (guitar) and Scipio, along with Adrian Reid on keys and Raymond Simpson on vocals, are joined by a lineup of exceptional musicians, including Toni Kofi on sax and Kevin Davy on trumpet. Produced by Ben Baptie, this album serves as a crowning jewel in Cymande’s discography.

    The album artwork, designed by Ghanaian-born, UK-based artist Koby Martin, visually represents Cymande’s legacy and rebirth. A vibrant sun rises behind a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and longevity, while a morphing dove and a pair of hands represent both the band’s loyal fanbase and new listeners alike. Martin’s colors echo the album’s diverse, layered sounds, promising an immersive experience for listeners.

    Cymande will support Renascence with a U.S. tour, kicking off in New York at Irving Plaza on February 13, 2025, and hitting major cities including Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles. This tour marks a monumental return to the stage for the British funk pioneers, who will bring their unmistakable grooves to fans old and new.

    Cymande’s long-awaited return represents not just a revival but a reclaiming of the legacy they laid decades ago. With Renascence, the band reaffirms their place in music history and offers a renewed soundtrack to inspire unity and resilience.

    Cymande US Tour Dates:
    FEB 13 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza
    FEB 14 – Philadelphia, PA – Ardmore Music Hall
    FEB 15 – Washington DC – Howard Theatre
    FEB 18 – Chicago, IL – Metro
    FEB 19 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theatre
    FEB 21 – Denver, CO – Bluebird
    FEB 22 – Seattle, WA – Crocodile
    FEB 23 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater
    FEB 26 – San Francisco, CA – August Hall*
    FEB 28 – Los Angeles, CA – The Bellwether

  • Maverick Concerts Announces New Green Room Project this Fall as Part of Multi-Step Fundraiser

    Maverick Concerts in Woodstock has announced their new Green Room Project as part of a multi-step fundraising project to revitalize and retain the historic hall.

    Maverick Concerts green room

    Maverick Concerts is the oldest ongoing summer chamber music festival in the U.S., attracting the best musicians in the world for 100 years. In addition to classical music, Maverick features jazz, contemporary, folk and world music. Maverick Family Saturdays offers free music, demonstrations and discovery for the whole family. The mainstay of the festival, which runs from June to September, is to be found in the Sunday chamber music concerts performed by renowned soloists and ensembles. Jazz and Contemporary Music presentations have been given more prominence in recent seasons.

    Maverick Concerts is located in Hurley on the outskirts of Woodstock, in Ulster County. TZHe barn-like, rectangular building with its gambrel roof was built by hand as part of the Maverick Colony in 1916 by the utopian writer and philosopher Hervey White.

    With a roof of wood shingles and a frame of heavy timber, to which the walls—sheaths of wide planks—are nailed directly, the wooden construction and luminous acoustics create an environment perfectly suited to the intimacy of live chamber music. Maverick Concerts, a multi-starred destination by the National Register of Historic Places since 1999, was awarded for Excellence in Historic Preservation by the Preservation League of New York State.

    This fall, the iconic venue plans to harbor new initiative in the creation of the new Green Room. Maverick Concerts has been awarded $457,000 in New York State grants for two capital projects vital to retaining the historic hall as an artistic home. The Green Room project starts this fall and as a first step in this multi-step fundraising project we are focusing on raising the full $257,000 of the New York State Council on the Arts matching grant. 

    The Green Room Project is an exciting new addition to the already fantastic venue. With the newly added Green Room, the Maverick Concert Hall expands their possibilities and capacity. $146,000 has been raised so far and with help they can raise the remaining $111,000 to better utilize the building for the expansion of musical legacy.

    For more information on Maverick Concerts, upcoming events, and the Green Room Project, click here.

  • Ben Folds To Headline Saratoga New Years Eve

    Ben Folds has been announced as the headlining act of the Saratoga New Year’s Eve celebration. The two-day event will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 31, and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, at different venues around the city’s center.

    Ben Folds

    Ben Folds is a singer-songwriter-composer who has created an enormous body of genre-bending music including pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. He will cap off the evening at Saratoga Springs City Center.

    The celebration will kick off with a free outdoor concert by local funk band Tops of Trees on Ellsworth Jones Place, located just outside of the Saratoga Springs City Center. Fireworks, launched from the top level of the City Center’s parking garage, will accompany this performance from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

    Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads will perform at the historic Universal Preservation Hall. Jamaican-born frontman Mystic Bowie reimagines and infuses fresh life into the Talking Heads’ classic catalog with his mix of roots reggae and ska. Since 2015, the charismatic singer and performer has electrified audiences at hundreds of shows across North America – spinning the heads of initially skeptical Talking Heads fans, and getting everyone else grooving along to the infectious, joyous rhythms and jubilant spirit of his native island. This and other performances by Los Sugar Kings, Dogs in a Pile, and Lindsey Kraft will be held throughout the day.

    The festivities will conclude on New Year’s Day with the Saratoga First Day 5K, a fun and healthy tradition for runners and anyone looking to start 2025 off right.  

    Tickets and limited VIP packages are on sale now. Purchase and learn more about Ben Folds in Saratoga Springs here.

  • Rev Ezra Releases First Single Off Upcoming Album

    Ithaca-based band Rev Ezra is gearing up for the release of their second studio album with a brand new single titled “Edge of a Knife,” out everywhere today. 

    Rev Ezra is the brainchild of singer-songwriter Josh Chamberlain. The project takes many forms with Chamberlain performing both as a solo artist and with a full-band. “Rev” invokes Reverend, a calling to the many religious themes in Chamberlain’s work. Ezra is “just a cool name,” Chamberlain says.

    In 2022, Chamberlain released his first album as Rev Ezra. The record, titled “These Days” garnered tens of thousands of streams after being placed on multiple official Spotify editorial playlists.

    “I kind of lacked a little bit of a confidence to really take myself seriously as an artist,” Chamberlain said. “I’m so glad I did [release the album]. That changed, like, everything for me.” he said.

    Two years later, Chamberlain is preparing for his second album set to release this December. “Edge of a Knife” is the first single off the record.

    “One of the lyrics is ‘How long can you live at the edge of a knife before you get cut too deep,’” Chamberlin explains. “It’s all about having too many late nights, not taking any breaks working every day… just feeling like I was at my wits end.”

    At least that’s how Chamberlin says he felt before making a major change this year: namely, quitting his job of five years and making music his top priority. “Man it frees up your mind,” Chamberlain said. “I knew that I put in my time and that I was ready to be done with that chapter … and I’m a lot less stressed now.”

    Rev Ezra
    Rev Ezra performing at Red Ants Pants Music Festival in Montana. Photo by Nicole Rossi

    This new chapter sees Chamberlain with his hands full of numerous projects including his upcoming second album, as well as a second record he has planned for a group he co-founded called Cast Iron Cowboys. Since leaving his job, Chamberlain has also played several music festivals including the Finger Lakes GrassRoots festival in Trumansburg, NY and Red Ants Pants Music Festival in Montana.

    Although originally from Pittsburgh, Ithaca has become Chamberlain’s new home since he moved there in 2021. 

    “This place has an incredible music scene, and I knew kind of pretty quickly that it was somewhere where I wanted to stay,” Chamberlain said.

    The Cast Iron Cowboys pose for a photo (From left to right: Nate Marshall, Joe Hayward, Josh Chamberlin, Max Moses, Margaret Harper and Zeb Whitford.) Photo by Jessie Koch

    The town has popular live music venues such as the Deep Dive as well as the State Theater. However, in recent years, other popular music establishments like the Haunt, Lot 10 and the Range have closed their doors to the dismay of many locals. Chamberlain has worked to expanded his reach to many of the wineries in the Finger Lakes region. 

    Rev Ezra
    The Cast Iron Cowboys performing live at the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival. Photo by Jessie Koch

    Chamberlain says living in Ithaca has affected his songwriting in more ways and one.

    “Life transitions make their way into songwriting, whether you like it or not, so living in a new place and being surrounded by different things absolutely impacted me,” Chamberlain said.  So in a way, ever since I moved here, every song I’ve written is about Ithaca in one way or another, and it’s also about the people that I know here.”

    The new album also has ties to Ithaca, recorded at Electric Wilburland in the nearby town of Newfield. The Cast Iron Cowboys also released a live EP released earlier this year, recorded primarily at Deep Dive.

    When he’s not doing music, Chamberlain works part-time on a few small farms, baling hay, spreading manure, chainsawing downed trees and occasionally wrangling horses. In short, he’s not afraid to put in hard work to accomplish his goals.

    “I saved up a bunch to make it viable, but now I’m able to work part-time, and I’m able to treat music as my number one thing, and I really like that better.” he said.

    With music at the forefront, Chamberlain has been able to really focus on his second album, which he says delves into themes of personal growth and supporting others in a sustainable way. 

    It’s a lot of introspection and taking a critical look at how life looks and saying … what kind of ground work do I want to lay for future generations,” Chamberlain said. “I don’t know what the future holds but I know that I want to make it better than it is.”

    Photo by Zach Ulibarri

    As far as Chamberlain’s own future, he has big plans for the coming year and hopes to do more music festivals and perhaps even a tour. Additionally he plans on releasing a full album with Cast Iron Cowboys in 2025.

    “I’m kind of asking myself, you know, how far can I take this?” Chamberlain said.

    Chamberlain will be releasing a single ever single week (besides Thanksgiving) leading up to his album release in December. He will also be having a single release party for cuts like knife at South Hill Cider in Ithaca on November 2nd from 6-8pm.

  • Who To See at the 7th Annual Washington Heights Jazz Festival 

    The 7th Annual Washington Heights Jazz Festival boasts a list of over 60 musicians performing across local venues- get the scoop on the lineup and special events to attend.

    Now in its seventh year, the Washington Heights Jazz Festival serves as a platform for the jazz creatives and cultural diversity of Upper Manhattan. Historically featuring both established and emerging artists, the festival aims to create an inclusive environment for music lovers while fostering and strengthening the Washington Heights community as a whole.

    With performances taking place across several stages in local venues, the Jazz Festival showcases the best of today’s New York City jazz scene while honoring the area’s rich cultural diversity through their performances for jazz lovers of all ages and backgrounds. 

    “We are thrilled to bring together such a diverse group of musicians and celebrate the rich jazz heritage of Washington Heights. This festival is a testament to the vibrant arts community in our neighborhood and the power of jazz to connect us all.”

    – Louise Rogers, Artistic Director

    This year’s Festival was kicked off with an exciting set of pre-festival events on October 25 and 27, with Ethan O’Reilly on bass and Olli Hirvonen on guitar bringing jazz to Cabrini Wines and the 2024 Jazz Composition Competition Winner Meg Okura hosting a “Meet the Composer” performance at the Castle Village Community Room where she performed and discussed excerpts of her commissioned piece “Reharmonizing Identity.”

    Night one opened on Halloween with the iconic Aimée Allen Quartet performing at Le Cheile.

    Night two on November 1 is to feature George Michael, John Albin, and Ethan O’Reilly at 181 Cabrini and the exciting Festival All-Star Jam, in which Festival performers will jam together alongside Annette Aguilar’s String Beans at Kismat in partial support from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. Both performances are to be completely free of charge.

    Saturday, November 2 boasts an expansive list of performances including Louise Rogers’ Jazzy For Kids family-oriented show, the Noah Bless & Latin Soul Party with support from a Creative Engagement Grant from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, The Chidi Trio, Shareef Clayton & Friends, The Steve Slagle Quartet, The Manual Valera Trio, 2024 Jazz Composition Competition winner Meg Okura, Vanisha Gould, and Rachel Therrien’s Latin Jazz Projects. 

    All Saturday events are to be ticketed and held at Le Cheile, and all-day passes are available for unlimited access to all of the day’s events at $50. 

    The Festival will conclude on November 3 with a free Jazz Brunch with the StringJazz Trio of WaHi at Le Creparis, Nicki Adams and Michael Eaton at The Lounge at Hudson View Gardens, and a free Latin Jazz Party with Tres Gatos at Dutch Baby Bakery.

    To learn more about the 7th Annual Washington Heights Jazz Festival, find specific set times, and purchase tickets, visit the official website here.

    Festival Schedule:

    Thursday, October 31st

    8pm Aimée Allen Quartet – Le Cheile

    Friday, November 1st

    5-7pm George Michael, John Albin, & Ethan O’Reilly – 181 Cabrini  FREE

    7-10pm The Festival All-Star Jam, Festival performers jamming with Jazz WaHi, featuring Annette Aguilar’s String Beans (partially supported by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council) – Kismat FREE

    Saturday, November 2nd

    11am Louise Rogers’ Jazzy for Kids  Jazz for Young Children aged 2-6 and their families.

    1pm Noah Bless & Latin Soul Party  Supported by a Creative Engagment Grant from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council.

    2:15pm The Chidi Trio

    3:30pm Shareef Clayton & Friends

    4:45pm The Steve Slagle Quartet

    6pm The Manuel Valera Trio

    7:30pm Meg Okura: Reharmonizing Identity. Jazz Composition Competition 2024 winner.

    8:50pm Vanisha Gould

    10:10pm Rachel Therrien’s Latin Jazz Project

    Sunday, November 3rd

    12-2pm Jazz Brunch with StringJazz Trio of WaHi – Le Creparis  FREE

    3-4pm Nicki Adams and Michael Eaton – The Lounge at Hudson View Gardens

    5-7pm Latin Jazz Party with Tres Gatos – Dutch Baby Bakery  FREE

    (All Saturday events are ticketed and will be held at Le Cheile.)

  • Mikaela Davis Announces Intimate Acoustic Solo Tour

    Rochester born singer-songwriter, producer, and harpist Mikaela Davis has announced a solo and acoustic tour throughout the northeast, including four stops in New York State. 

    Mikaela Davis Solo

    Multi-talented vocalist, producer, songwriter, and harpist Mikaela Davis has been making waves since her initial release Delivery in 2018. Graduating from the Crane School of Music with a degree in harp performance, Davis bends the rules of genre and sound to her will with each release as she melds her classical training with 60s pop melodies, psychedelia, and driving folk rock.

    Since her debut in the industry, Davis has shared the stage with the likes of Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Christian McBride, Bon Iver, Lake Street Dive, and Circles Around the Sun alongside her band members Alex Coté, Cian McCarthy, Shane McCarthy, and Kurt Johnson.

    photo by Daniel Bocchino

    Mikaela’s upcoming endeavor, however, takes on a less explored and much more personal shape- she has announced a series of six shows throughout the northeast that will feature John Lee Shannon of Circles Around the Sun on the guitar, herself, and her harp. The stripped-back series of six evenings on some of the northeast’s most beloved stages will allow for Davis’ harp background to shine even brighter. 

    Experimenting with new ideas as well as reimagining some old, she will be making appearances in Albany, Homer, Kingston, and Rochester over the course of the tour’s run in a string of special shows that fans new and old will not want to miss.

    Mikaela Davis Solo

    Tickets for Davis’ upcoming tour are on sale now, including shows at Ophelia’s in Albany on November 19, the Center for the Arts of Homer on November 20, Senate Garage in Kingston on November 23, and ARTISANworks in Rochester on November 24. For more information and ticket sales, visit her website here.

    Mikaela Davis Solo Tour Dates

    November 19: Ophelia’s – Albany, NY

    November 20: Center for the Arts of Homer – Homer, NY

    November 21: The Parlor Room – Northampton, MA

    November 22: The Lamp Shop – Burlington, VT

    November 23: Senate Garage – Kingston, NY

    November 24: ARTISANworks – Rochester, NY

  • The Great Salt City Blues Concert Comes to Syracuse in December for Eighth Edition

    The Great Salt City Blues Concert 8 has been announced for its annual return to Syracuse on December 26, this time at a new venue, the St. George Church Hall.

    The Great Salt City Blues

    The area’s best musicians will be paying tribute to the music of 4 Blues Hall Of Fame members: Michael Bloomfield (2012), Johnny “Guitar” Watson (2008), Ruth Brown (2002) & Big Bill Broonzy (a charter BHOF member). Michael Bloomfield was one of the first guitar heroes of his generation, who along with Eric Clapton, was considered an early influence on many aspiring Blues guitarist’s that followed the path of the Blues boom of the late 60’s and early 70’s. 

    The GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will also be paying tribute to, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, a Texas Blues guitar great who began recording in 1954 and later re-invented himself as a funk soul master, best known for writing and singing the classic 1977 R&B hit, “A Real Mother For Ya”. Ruth Brown is also a member of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, inducted in 1993, mostly on the strength of 50’s classics Ruth recorded for Atlantic Records. Atlantic Records was then known as “the house that Ruth built” and Ruth a consistent hit maker and was their Queen of Rhythm & Blues.

    The Great Salt City Blues
    Michael Bloomfield

    On the acoustic stage, The GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will pay tribute to the legendary Chicago Bluesman, Big Bill Broonzy, a Blues Hall of Fame artist who began performing in the 1920’s and continued to record until his death in 1958. His prolific writing skills include over 300 copyrighted compositions, including many Blues classics that formed the bedrock of Chicago Blues. The great Muddy Waters was one of his biggest fans and recorded many of Big Bill’s classics for Chess Records in the 50’s and 60’s.

    This year’s GREAT Salt City BLUES Concert 8 will be limited to 400 seated patrons and there is plenty of free parking at the Macedonian Orthodox Church parking lot. Food & beverages will be available and served by the church staff. Tickets are $30.00 advance / $40.00 at door, if available and go on sale, Nov. 1. You’ll want to jump on tickets now, as this show is sure to get packed quick.

     A series of 10 GREAT Salt City BLUES Concerts will be presented. This is concert #8 and each concert has been performed in front of a full capacity audience. Each concert is unique and never to be repeated with a changing line-up of performers featuring some of the area’s greatest musicians. Each concert is a thematic show honoring some of our greatest Blues Artists with participating musicians chosen specifically because they are best fitted for the show.

    For more information on the upcoming GREAT Salt City BLUES concert and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Legendary Comic Institution Second City Announces New York Comedy Debut at Brooklyn Outpost

    The iconic Second City Comic Institution announces the New York Comedy Festival’s debut at their Brooklyn outpost. The festival lasts from Nov 8 to 17.

    Following the successful launch of The Second City New York earlier this year, the iconic comedy institution is once again raising the bar. Building on the legacy of its renowned Chicago and Toronto siblings, the Brooklyn outpost is entering an exciting new chapter with a prime spot in the 2024 New York Comedy Festival.

    Second City New York’s highly anticipated debut at the 2024 New York Comedy Festival showcases over 20 guest performances, from Friday, November 8 to Sunday, November 17. From high-energy improv to hysterical stand-up, the festival’s schedule showcases The Second City’s signature mix of classic formats and fresh, boundary-pushing experiments.

    Second City opened its doors in 1959 as a small comedy cabaret and has since grown to become the world’s most influential name in improvisation and comedy, celebrating its 65th year in business in 2024. The Second City’s stages, Touring Companies, and Training Centers across North America have proudly been the launch pad and artistic home for many of the funniest performers, writers, directors, and comedic minds on the planet.

    In addition, due to the incredible response from New York audiences, the current Mainstage Revue production of Ruthless Acts of Kindness has been extended through Saturday, November 16. The added performances provide fans a few more opportunities to catch this immersive production featuring sketch and improv scenes diving into the absurdities of everyday life with a special nod to New York City’s quirks and characters.

    For more information on the upcoming New York City Comedy Festival, and to purchase tickets, click here.