NYS Music 2024

Category: Genres

  • In Focus: CMA Fest Takes Over Nashville

    Country music’s biggest party invaded downtown Nashville June 6-9, as CMA Fest returned for its 51st edition.  The four day long event featured hundreds of musical acts performing on one of nine official stages, with many other performances and events lined up across town. 

    Music ran daily from 10am until almost midnight with most of these performances free to those in attendance.  Only the night time performances at Nissan Stadium and Ascend Amphitheater charged admission. Stadium performers included Jelly Roll, Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominion and many others.  

    Ascend Amphitheater during CMA Fest

    CMA Fest kicked off under Thursday June 6 under beautiful blue skies and typical warm southern temperatures.  Early arrivers were treated to a special Q&A session at the CMA Close Up Stage with country legend Dolly Parton, while the Riverfront Stage opened the music portion with a set by Dylan Scott (who would perform at the Ascend Amphitheater later that evening).   Warren Zeiders packed the Riverfront Stage Thursday afternoon, showcasing his gritty country rock.  Early on it became clear that the CMA talet valued the fans in attendance, as it was common to see acts hop off stage and meet fans following their performance.

    Warren Zeiders

    As the sun set on day one, fans made their way across the Cumberland River to Nissan Stadium for sets by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Thomas Rhett, Shaboozey and Chapel Hart (among many others).  The night also featured surprise performances by Post Malone and Blake Shelton.  

    Brett Young

    A not so quick walk down the famed Broadway on Friday morning and one would realize the packed Thursday crowd had grown enormously for Friday’s festivities.   Shortly after noon, the Reverb Stage reached audience capacity, as fans flocked to see rising sensation Shaboozey perform his blend of hip hop and country sounds, in high energy style.  The Riverfront Stage would follow suit and reach capacity soon after, in anticipation of performances by Niko Moon and Collie Caillat.  Those waiting in the hot sun were treated to sets by Alana Springsteen and BRELAND.  Moon, dressed in neon green and a sun hat, radiated messages of love and positivity, themes that would reoccur through out the weekend.  

    Alana Springsteen

    The party ramped up Saturday, with The War and Treaty kicking off the festivities on the Riverfront Stage, while Dasha, fresh off a stadium performance the previous night, opened the Chevy Vibes Stage.  Shaylen would draw quite the crowd early afternoon, mixing country and alternative styles in a display of angst and passion.  The afternoon would also see performances form acts such as Restless Road and Ingrid Andress.  Perhaps the star of the afternoon was Tucker Wetmore, who filled the Hard Rock Stage to capacity, and saw fans spill on to Broadway and surrounding streets to try and catch a glimpse of the set.

    The War and Treaty

    CMA Fest marked a pinnacle moment in the careers for many of the performers  who took the stage over the four day festival.  The War and Treaty preached the need to be your “authentic self” as you strived to achieve whatever goals you set for yourself.  Country-rocker Shaylen became visibly choked up and moved to tears during “What If I Don’t”, a song she wrote soon after moving to Nashville to give her music career one last chance.  Jelly Roll, a Nashville native, lamented on trips to Nissan Stadium with his late father to watch the Titans play and cherished how he was now performing in that same stadium.  In all, it was a weekend dedicated to celebrating and honoring both the successes and rising stars in country music, all the while placing the fan at the forefront.  

    Ascend Amphitheater, CMA Fest
    Chayce Beckham
    CMA Fest
    50 Years at the Opry, CMA Fest
    Dasha
    Drew Parker
    Dylan Scott
    Ella Langley
    Ella Langley
    Gavin DeGraw
    Gina Venier
    Ingrid Andress
    The Kentucky Gentlemen
    Lee Brice
    Lee Brice
    CMA Fest
    Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest
    Restless Road
    Shaylen
    The War and Treaty

  • Jerry Garcia Band Glides Down Music Mountain: June 16, 1982

    As the Grateful Dead found themselves in between tours in the early summer of 1982, side projects were apparently the name of the game in order to stay musically limber. And a new music venue in South Fallsburg, NY was more than happy to have them. Jerry Garcia Band kicked off a string of shows in the Northeast at Music Mountain on a co-bill with Bob Weir’s Bobby and the Midnites. This new venue in Sullivan County at a revamped hotel lodge that never quite made it actually played host to the first permissible concerts in the area since Woodstock in its very brief existence.

    One of the last of the few shows ever played here was this heralded Jerry Garcia Band show on this day in 1982 that’s loaded with classic cover song selections and a few JGB “originals.” This particular iteration of the band features some of Garcia’s closest and longtime collaborators playing together and it certainly comes through in the sound. Bill Kreutzmann, his Grateful Dead cohort, is on drums with John Kahn manning the bass guitar. Longtime JGB member Melvin Seals is joined on keys by Jimmy Warren. And Julie Stafford and Liz Stires provide the backup vocals.

    Jerry Garcia Band 1982
    Jerry Garcia Band ticket stub – June 16, 1982

    The show begins with a vintage take on Smokey Robinson’s “How Sweet It Is,” a staple in the Jerry Garcia Band songbook. A sizzling early guitar solo sets the stage for responses from Melvin Seals and Warren on keys with everyone in the band getting a chance to shine right from the start. The harmonized vocals add a layer of authenticity to this cover. Bill Kreutzmann then starts up the next number on the bass drum by himself as the rest of the band patiently merges into the beginning of “Catfish John,” a much lesser known cover song that JGB has also made one of its own. Garcia takes the wah pedal/effect out for a spin much to the delight of the Music Mountain crowd with the rhythm section maintaining a steady pocket of groove throughout. After some fun interplay with Seals, Garcia then fires in one last funky guitar solo on this well cooked “Catfish.”

    Music Mountain – South Fallsburg, NY

    In the three-spot is another Jerry Garcia Band regular, “That’s What Love Will Make You Do.” Originally credited to Little Milton in 1971, the song was played numerous times by Legion Of Mary, an all-too-brief previous side project of Garcia’s from the 70s that also featured Kahn, Martin Fierro on saxophone and flute along with Merl Saunders on keys. Their familiarity with this number comes through in spades as Garcia and Saunders take turns ripping through their respective solos on another groove-heavy funk vehicle that has Music Mountain in full swing.

    Things finally cool off a bit with “Valerie,” a Robert Hunter-penned song that would go on to appear on Garcia’s Run For The Roses which would be officially released later this year. It’s got elements of “Loser” woven throughout and all the feel of an early 70s Dead song dressed up in a JGB jacket that fits perfectly in this spot. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Grateful Dead-related show without a nod to Chuck Berry and the band takes care of this in the form of a ripping cover of “Let It Rock” that sees Garcia unleashing another bevvy of scintillating guitar runs. This funnels right into a set-closing “Deal” that’s as tight as any GD version with the harmonized backup vocals from Stires and Stafford adding some additional flavor to it.

    A spirited Music Mountain crowd welcomes the Jerry Garcia Band back for a second set that starts with another cover, this time it’s “(I’m A) Road Runner,” a song first recorded by Junior Walker and the All-Stars in 1965. This would become another JGB live show staple throughout the years. Seals and Garcia get into some heavy interplay on this one as the the band stretches this “pop” hit into a fun, relaxed jam. “Love In The Afternoon” then follows, another Robert Hunter-penned song that first appeared on Garcia’s Cats Under The Stars album from 1978, his first LP using the band name Jerry Garcia Band and his first LP on the Arista label. 

    The real meat and potatoes of the second set, and perhaps the show itself, is the “Don’t Let Go” that comes next. It’s a near 20-minute joy ride of deep funk and some of the more exploratory jamming of the evening. The rhythm section of Kahn and Kreutzmann is hard at work once again and develop a deep groove that Garcia plays off of effortlessly. With Seals adding additional layers of sound atop it all, it makes for a lively jam that’s rife with musical cohesion and craftsmanship. Almost suddenly, the rest of the band then eases up that allows for a brief Kreuztmann drum solo that then turns into a bass duel with Kahn before Garcia slowly reenters the mix. It’s a loose, acid jazzy type jam that’s one of the show’s true highlights.

    Although there would be no traditional encore tonight, the rest of the set almost feels like one, starting with a super slow take of The Band’s “The Night They Drove Ol’ Dixie Down.” With the tempo dialed down to an absolute crawl, this gives one of the last Garcia guitar solos of the night some added poignance and emotion. The beautiful backup vocals from Stires and Stafford certainly doesn’t hurt either. The show then comes to a close with “Run For the Roses,” the title track of the soon to be released album and another classic Garcia-Hunter collaboration. And with that, Jerry Garcia band puts the finishing stamp on one of the last shows to ever take place at the ill fated Music Mountain.

    An apparently rain-soaked show from Bobby and the Midnites that went well into the night then followed – check out the audio here.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uE27loWjRq0

    Jerry Garcia Band – Music Mountain, South Fallsburg, NY – June 16, 1982

    Set 1: How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You), Catfish John, That’s What Love Will Make You Do, Valerie, Let It Rock > Deal

    Set 2: (I’m A) Road Runner, Love In The Afternoon, Don’t Let Go, The Night They Drove Ol’ Dixie Down, Run For the Roses

  • In Focus: Kris Davis & Lutosławski Quartet at Dizzy’s Club

    On Thursday, June 13 the 8th Jazztopad Festival kicked off with performances from composer and pianist Kris Davis accompanied by the Lutosławski Quartet at Dizzy’s Club of Jazz At Lincoln Center. 

    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club

    The Jazztopad Festival, running from June 13 to 27, will have shows across New York, Philadelphia, and Canada. The Polish festival celebrates Jazz music and the talents of musicians worldwide. By bringing Jazztopad to North America and legendary venues like Dizzy’s Club, the music and artists featured are exposed to new audiences. Its partnership with the Polish Cultural Institute New York makes the festival possible.

    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club

    Thursday’s performance included the premiere of Kris Davis’ new piece “The Solastalgia Suite,” written for the Lutosławski Quartet. Specifically, this show marks the first time she composed for strings. The quartet includes Roksana Kwaśnikowska on 1st violin, Marcin Markowicz on 2nd violin, Artur Rozmysłowicz on the viola, and Maciej Młodawski on the cello.

    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club

    The first piece played, “The Solastalgia Suite,” started slow and bitter, as the audience patiently anticipated the brand-new composition. The music eventually built up to the extravagant song everyone was waiting for. Undeniably, attendees’ genuine respect and appreciation for the music echoed throughout the room. As Davis led on the piano and the Quartet responded accordingly, their synchronization exemplified their talents.

    Set to the backdrop of the sun setting on the iconic Columbus Circle view, the performance began the festival with a heartwarming and celebratory experience.

    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club
    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club
    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club
    Jazztopad Festival at Dizzy's Club

  • Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams Make a Perfect Pair at Caffe Lena

    At Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs, a captivated audience was on hand for the June 9 performance from Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams.

    The second of two nights for the Woodstock couple at the historic venue, each night was opened by Jenna Nicholls, who brought a unique voice to the stage, one that is tailor made for Caffe Lena. With Jon LaDeau on guitar alongside her, Nicholls opened with a ukulele song that had an old timey radio sound, making horn sounds via bilabial fricative while she plucked away.

    larrycampbell_teresawilliams Larry and Teresa Caffe Lena

    A resident of Saugerties, Nicholls cited the Jalopy Music Hall scene for her folk/Americana sound, one that is as unique as it is intriguing. Add in some cowboy songs and a little yodeling, and Nicholls rightfully has earned her first headline show at Caffe Lena on January 18, 2025.

    Woodstock locals Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams, fresh off the release of All This Time earlier this year, took the stage around 9pm for a mesmerizing set. Joined by former Hot Tuna drummer (and longtime Midnight Ramble production manager) Justin Guip and bassist Branden Morrison (whose tone was on point all night), the band opened with the lead single from All This Time, “Desert Island Dreams.”

    Larry and Teresa Caffe Lena

    During the show, Campbell was impressively augmenting his guitar sound to have that of a slide guitar, minus the slide. He mentioned that his father grew up in The Bronx, while Williams mentioned her home of Peckerwood Point, TN, in a dry county, just north of Memphis.

    Larry and Teresa Caffe Lena

    Performing much of their new album in order – “All this Time,” “Ride with Me,” “The Way You Make me Feel” and others, Campbell and Williams would pause between songs to share stories, including those involving legendary drummer, Levon Helm. Sharing a story from the recording of Electric Dirt, Campbell recalled that Levon suggested the duo start their first record, which would be recorded at Levon’s barn in Woodstock. One of those tracks would end up on their recent release, the George Jones/Gene Pitney composition, “That’s All it Took.”

    A mid show cover of Duke Ellington’s “Caravan” was time for all four on stage to shine, as seen below.

    A deep cut of American comedy and vaudeville came to light with “A Little Better,” a song referencing Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, bringing to mind the simple joys of life that can make you feel better, by watching ‘Stan and Ollie Dance.’

    Stories from Williams of ‘pew jumpers’ at revivals down south peppered the set, noting the spirit of the music that compelled even the most devout to rise from their seats in joy and exultation. A cover of “Long Black Veil” by Lefty Frizzell featured Larry Campbell on mandolin and tugged at your emotions as Teresa Williams belted out the lyrics in the small confines of Caffe Lena.

    A cover of Helm’s “Poor Old Dirt Farmer” off Dirt Farmer, which featured Campbell as producer and on multiple instruments and was engineered by Guip, was presented as a ‘cajun waltz’ but had a distinct sound of having Irish and Appalachian roots.

    Larry and Teresa Caffe Lena

    The penultimate song, “When I Stopped Loving You” was a highlight of the night, as was the Julie Miller penned “I Love You.” The encore of “Down on My Knees” was followed by a rousing rendition of the Grateful Dead classic, “Sugaree.” The duo spent time meeting fans in the lobby of Caffe Lena, discussing songs and their show and taking photos, a treat to close out a spectacular performance.

    On July 20, 2024, catch Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams with musical friends old and new at their inaugural July Jam at Arrowood Farms in Accord. Get tickets here.

  • Dreamer Boy at Baby’s All Right

    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 y’all, 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.

  • Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” Certified 5x Platinum

    Ahead of the release of the live album LOUIS IN LONDON, the RIAA has announced that Louis Armstrong’s legendary track “What a Wonderful World” has been certified 5x Platinum, marking the original recording’s cumulative US sales of more than 5 million since its first release in 1967.

    To coincide with this milestone moment, Verve Records is releasing the official performance video of the track, along with a live recording of his GRAMMY-Award-winning Hello, Dolly!

    Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World
    left to right: Jamie Krents – President, Verve and Impulse; Wynton Marsalis – President of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation / Managing and Artistic Director at Jazz at Lincoln Center; Jackie Harris – Executive Director of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation; Ken Druker – Senior Vice President, Jazz Development at Verve and Impulse; Oliver Schrage – Senior Director, Marketing and Jazz Development at Verve and Impulse

    Recorded at the BBC in 1968, Louis Armstrong’s live rendition of “What a Wonderful World” marked his last great live performance. He had done the recording just weeks after the song hit #1 on the UK’s top charts, and afterward, it became the biggest song in the country for that year. Along with his biggest hit, Armstrong had recorded an entire concert in London with the BBC.

    An iconic figure who transformed the world of music, Louis Armstrong continues to be honored by the Recording Academy and celebrated worldwide. Born in New Orleans, Louis Armstrong rose to prominence in the world of jazz and eventually moved to New York City. He quickly became an iconic figure at The Cotton Club, the most famous jazz club in Harlem. He lived the rest of his life in New York City and was buried in Flushing Cemetery in Queens.

    The Louis Armstrong House Museum, located in Queens, holds hundreds of collected items that document his life, both in and outside the world of music. The upcoming album includes insider-exclusive liner notes by Armstrong’s biographer and Director of Research Collections for the Louis Armstrong House Museum, Ricky Riccardi.

    The posthumous live album Louis In London contains 13 live performances recorded in London in 1968. In addition to the live recordings, the collection features six previously unreleased tracks, including “(Back Home Again) In Indiana,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” “Ole Miss,” and “Blueberry Hill.” The album will be released on July 12, 2024.

    The Louis in London album will be available for purchase and download on July 12, 2024. Pre-orders are available here.

  • Albany Funk Rock Band Lake Effect Releases First EP

    A new face in the Albany Music scene, Lake Effect, released their first six-song EP, Drifting on May 17.

    Lake Effect EP

    The band formed in 2022 with Lenore Aldi-Snow, who writes all the original music. The other three members come from the funk band, NoLaNauts, also based in Albany. Ben Moss is on Guitar, Brian Brancato is on drums and background vocals and Matt Girtler is on bass and backing vocals. The group played for what they thought was just one performance on New Year’s Eve 2022 at Jive Hive Live, a small venue in Albany.

    Lake Effect came together again at Christ’s Church in Albany in April 2023 as an official band this time. They played 23 of their original songs including the tracks from Drifting. The EP was mixed and produced by Alec Lewis at his studio, Honey Home. 

    The EP is full of Aldi-Snow on the keys playing classic funk rhythms. “Trouble” has an uncanny resemblance to Bill Wither’s “Use Me.” The band uses neo-soul and funk sounds but mixes them with Aldi-Snow’s crisp jazz vocals. “EDGE,” the last track on the EP features Brancato’s and Girtler’s vocals with a blues-rock end to Drifting.

    Although Lake Effect is currently on a break due to other musical commitments, they plan on recording more music in the future – listen to their EP Drifting on any streaming site.

  • Melanie Martinez and the Trilogy Tour at MSG

    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
    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 of Cry Baby with 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
    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
    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 “Teacher’s 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 Martinez’s Madison Square Garden run was a spectacular blend of music, theatrics, and storytelling. Each song was a meticulously crafted experience, demonstrating Melanie’s 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.

  • EagleMania Music Festival Coming to North Creek

    On August 24, EagleMania will return to North Creek, NY, for their headlining EagleMania Music Festival. The festival includes two live performances from The Brass Machine and the World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band, EagleMania.

    eaglemania music festival
    EagleMania Music Fest – official website

    Set against the backdrop of Gore Mountain, fans and attendees have the opportunity to explore the scenic location during the festival. All tickets include a pass for a complimentary skyride along the Northwoods Gondola. This gives fans the ability to hike, camp, or enjoy the views around them, all while listening to music we all know and love.

    For over a decade, EagleMania has performed all over the country. Eagles, one of one the biggest bands of all time, had a major influence over thousands of fans. As lifelong fans of the classic rock band, EagleMania has dedicated their band to replicating their classic, steady sound. The band is comprised of five members, all with different experiences, stories, and expertise. However, there is one thing they all share in common, and that is their love for Eagles’ music.

    Joining a little over ten years ago, EagleMania has gone through several lineups. For the last few years, the band’s official seven members: Frankie Reno, Marc Hoffman, Ken Darcy, John Gaechter, Dennis Espatman, Ron Negro, and Josh Leclerc, have been bringing their Eagles tribute all over the country. Yet, they still remained one of the biggest tribute bands of the decade. Their slogan, “The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band,” exists for a reason. Since the creation of the band, they have promised to bring audiences an authentic, well-developed replication of Eagles’ music. Through thorough breakdowns of albums, hundreds of hours practicing, and a decade of performing, EagleMania has proven that they are nothing if not deserving of the title.

    Below is the lineup and information on the bands performing at EagleMania Music Festival. For ticket and festival information, visit here.

    August 24 @ 1:00 pm – The Brass Machine

    Led by frontman “Kidd” Kyle Yagielski, The Brass Machine is one of the hottest brass bands on the scene. Formed in Buffalo, NY, The Brass Machine features a rotating cast of musicians for each performance and includes a huge variety of horns, guitars, keys, drums, and more. They have performed with many noteworthy groups, such as Earth, Wind, and Fire, and several music festivals. With The Brass Machine, no two shows are ever the same! Join them at 1:00 pm for an opener that weaves together funk, jazz, and R&B.

    eaglemania music festival
    The Brass Machine – official website

    August 24 @ 3:30 pm – EagleMania

    EagleMania will be headlining the festival, following the performance of The Brass Machine. The EagleMania show consists of authentic, show-stopping renditions of Eagles’ greatest hits, as well as music from the solo acts of Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Joe Walsh. Join the World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band for their performance of the songs you know and love at 3:30 pm.

  • Santa Fe Klan Announces “Blanco y Negro” Tour Stop at Prudential Center

    Following his recent international success, Mexican rapper Sante Fe Klan announced his upcoming “Blanco y Negro” Tour, with special guests That Mexican OT and Aleman. The tour takes him across the United States, including a stop at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

    Hailing from Guanajato, Sante Fe Klan has dedicated the last seven years to becoming the face of music in Mexico. With his passionate lyricism, creative flow, and elements of traditional Mexican music, it is no wonder Santa Fe Klan has been dominating the Mexican hip-hop scene.

    Since 2017, he has released ten albums and topped the country’s charts year after year. His growing international popularity has acquired quite a diverse fanbase, stretching from fans in Mexico and Latin America to the United States. His international success is seen through his most recent album, “TODO,” which includes guest features from hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg and Latin pop powerhouses Peso Pluma and Duki. Over the years, the rapper has performed in several festivals within Mexico, including the Tecate Pa’l Norte music festival in Monterrey, and the Vive Latino festival in Mexico City.

    After years of dominating Mexico’s music industry, Santa Fe Klan brought his energetic and exciting stage presence to the United States earlier this year. In March, The South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas, was his U.S. festival experience, where crowds were stunned by his dynamic, fun, and electrifying performances. In April, he made his Coachella mainstage debut and sold out two separate weekends, solidifying his spot as one of Mexico’s most prominent artists. 

    santa fe klan
    Santa Fe Klan performs at Coachella – Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Coachella

    This summer, Santa Fe Klan announced his “Blanco y Negro” Tour, named after his highly anticipated upcoming album. With this nationwide tour, U.S. fans can finally experience his showstoppers performed live. International fans can finally join the rapper in some of the country’s most renowned venues, such as the Smart Financial Center in Houston, and the Prudential Center in Newark. With this tour, Santa Fe Klan promises to deliver unforgettable moments for new and longtime fans. 

    All tour dates are listed below. For more information, fans can follow the artist here.

    TOUR DATES: 

    Fri Jul 26          Salt Lake City                Maverik Center

    Sat Jul 27         Las Vegas, NV               Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

    Fri Aug 02         Sacramento, CA            Golden 1 Center

    Sat Aug 03        Palm Desert, CA            Acrisure Arena

    Fri Aug 09         Fresno, CA                    Save Mart Center at Fresno State

    Sat Aug 10        San Diego, CA               Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

    Fri Aug 16         Los Angeles, CA            Crypto.com Arena

    Sat Aug 17        San Jose, CA                 SAP Center

    Fri Aug 23         El Paso,                        TX UTEP Don Haskins Center

    Sat Aug 24        Phoenix, AZ                  Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

    Sun Aug 25       Anaheim, CA                 Honda Center

    Fri Aug 30         Ridgefield, WA              RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater

    Sun Sep 01       Auburn, WA                  White River Amphitheatre

    Thu Sep 26       Newark, NJ                   Prudential Center

    Sat Sep 28        Bristow, VA                   Jiffy Lube Live

    Fri Oct 04         Charlotte, NC                PNC Music Pavilion

    Sat Oct 05        Duluth, GA                    Gas South Arena

    Sat Oct 12        Milwaukee, WI              BMO Pavilion

    Fri Oct 18         Miami, FL                      FPL Solar Amphitheatre

    Sun Oct 20        Tampa, FL                    Yuengling Center

    Fri Oct 25         Hidalgo, TX                   Payne Arena

    Sat Oct 26         Laredo, TX                    Sames Auto Arena

    Fri Nov 01         Houston, TX                  Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

    Sat Nov 02        San Antonio, TX            Freeman Coliseum

    Fri Nov 08         Dallas, TX                     Dos Equis Pavilion

    Sat Nov 09        Tulsa, OK                      BOK Center