“Diorama” explores all the unique nuances of Sam Rappaport’s voice and vision. The track opens up rather smoothly, with notes of contemporary jazz but with a modern undertone. A soft piano melody carries the tune to its heights and to its valleys. Rappaport’s soothing vocals and lyrics fall perfectly along the instruments throughout the entirety of the tune.
The track explores Sam’s inner fears, loves, and life experiences. “Diorama” refers to a layout of all of what makes up oneself. Sam wants to study his own diorama, who he truly is, what makes him who he is. What is he afraid of and what are the fundamental aspects of his person. What does he love, desire and need, and why?
My dad used to take me to the Natural History Museum growing up, and I would love looking at the dioramas. I started thinking, what if there was a diorama for my life and fears, what scenes would it show? So, I guess the main concept is reflectionâorganizing all one’s little traumas into a diorama for public viewing.
Sam Rappaport
Be sure to keep on eye on Sam Rappaport’s further releases by checking his Spotify, Instagram and YouTube. Visit Rappaport’s website to hear the new single “Diorama” For more information on the artist, click here.
Woodstock-formed pop-rock band Orleans has announced two back-to-back upcoming shows across the state.
The first show, in Cohoes, will happen at the Cohoes Music Hall on September 13, and the second show, in Clayton, NY, takes place at the Clayton Opera House on September 14.
Created in 1972 by John Hall (guitar), Larry Hoppen (guitar/keyboard) and Wells Kelly (drums), Orleans has passed the test of time, still remaining intact in 2024. They released their first album in 1973 and have subsequently had numerous best-selling albums over the years, including Let There Be Music, Waking and Dreaming and Forever.
Over the years, Orleans has amassed a catalog of 17 albums and multiple DVDs. Now, celebrating more than 50 years of live shows, Orleans has continued their consistency to this day, already performing 10 times across the country just this year.
Orleans’ smooth blend of melodic pop-rock is a timeless sound. Their classic tight ensemble playing, gorgeous harmony vocals and inspired and well-crafted songwriting always create the perfect storm to dance to, something that visitors to Cohoes and Clayton will be able to experience.
For Orleans’ first show at the Cohoes Music Hall in Cohoes on September 13, the band will play as part of a double bill with folk/rock band Aztec Two-Step. The show will run between 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. For their second show at the Clayton Opera House in Clayton on September 14, Orleans will take on the stage solo, performing at the historic venue between 7:30 and 9:00 p.m.
The band also has a third show scheduled for October at the Northwest Missouri Moon Festival. Visit here for tickets and more information.
Thursday, August 22 was a night of neon shirts, glow sticks and necklaces, and spandex as New Kids on The Block put quite the performance for fans at Darien Lake Ampitheatre. Joining the adventure were Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff, no strangers to the Gen X fans in attendance.
Formed in 1984, the New Kids recently released their eighth album, Still Kids, and have been on tour in support of it.
Getting the party started was DJ Jazzy Jeff. Half of the famed duo DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince, Jazzy Jeff scratched the records while his MC, Dayne Jordan, rocked the mic. Playing samples of classics like “O.P.P.”, “I’m a Believer”, and “Jump”, as well as theme songs from both Cheers and Super Mario Bros., this MC and DJ duo had the crowd of mostly middle-aged fans thinking they were still kids on the playground chillin’ out, maxin’, relaxin’ all cool. As his set ended, I am sure fans were anxious to see if would get tossed off the stage in the same manner Uncle Phil tossed him out of his house (he did not get tossed.)
Following the famed DJ, fans were treated to a former dancer/cheerleader/choreographer turned talent show judge. 62-year-old Paula Abdul took to the stage playing notable hits from the late 80s and early 90s.
Rising up through the stage, Abdul seems to be portraying herself struggling to write “Straight Up”, scribbling notes, before breaking into song as she is whisked off towards the front of the set. Using her amazing dancers as props, she continues on like it was 1988 all over again. This time around was little different, though, as she immediately takes quick breather, some water, and oxygen. “What?” She asks the surprised crowd. “This is 62, folks!” she quips.
Well known for her dancing and choreography, Abdul wastes no more time in continuing the production. “Vibeology” and “Cold Hearted” were performed flawlessly, as if they were making a new video to air during TRL.
With a hand-picked dance troupe surrounding her, Abdul prances around the stage, utilizing the various wardrobe racks for quick changes, many that were replicated from the heyday of music videos, including a bright yellow fedora style hat.
Only playing for about 35 minutes, the former celebrity crush of many 70s and 80s kids doesn’t forget those who have helped her along the way, including her video partner from “Opposites Attract”, MC Skat Kat, who joined her while she performed the song. For someone who recently came back from a 25-year hiatus from touring, Paula Abdul doesn’t seem to have lost her step.
Danny Wood, Jonathan Knight, Jordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, and Joey McIntyre were brought together in the mid 80s outside of Boston, MA to create an up-and-coming boy band as counterpart to New Edition. While success wasn’t immediate, it did happen a few short years later after a Florida radio station put “Hangin Tough” on repeat due to listener requests. Fame was on the fast track, and teenage girls buying posters and cassettes, t-shirts and hoodies, and going to shows at malls around the country drove the train on that fast track.
Fast forward to August 22, as many of those young girls are now taking their kids to see the boys who they went nuts for in middle and high school. “Donnie! I love you!”, “Marry me, Joey!”, “Danny is so hot!” were common things heard while among the sparse crowd of around 8500.
Getting the night started with two tracks from their newest release, NKOTB came out with “Magic” and “Summer Love”. Just like 35 years ago, fans were screaming and jumping for joy as they music played. I don’t know if it was because of the songs or because they were seeing childhood idols for the first time. Either way, the crowd was boisterous and enthusiastic from start to finish. Rounding out the first 3 was “My Favorite Girl,” a song they first played in 1989.
It’s the most mature album we’ve ever made
Mark Wahlberg on Still Kids
Cruising through the 28-song set, Wahlberg and company give fans what they want with every song. Nostalgic lyrics, hip thrusts and gyrations that Elvis would be proud of, as well as a little bit where shirts came off and muscle flexes were the show. As teenage heartthrobs of yesteryear, the boys have seemed to take their rizz to new levels now that they are all grown up. I heard zero complaints from the crowd.
Having toured with NKOTB before, DJ Jazzy Jeff once again becomes part of the show, as he appears atop of the huge steps on stage. With a mashup of “Dance With You” and “Love Like This” getting started, each of the singers brings out a ‘selected’ fan and they continue to perform with the guests by their sides. A true moment to remember for these 5 lucky ladies.
Getting Jazzy Jeff more involved, Wahlberg, in roundabout way, demands to play “Summertime”, to wish there is no argument from the DJ. After playing a short clip, Wahlberg stops and asks a young lady on stage who claims to know the song word for word. The 16-year-old made the trip the mid Atlantic region for this show and proceeded to belt out a couple verses from the song made famous by DJ Jazzy Jeff and Fresh Prince. With her mom by her side, the young lady was elated to get the opportunity. Wahlberg continues on to say that they continue to gain fans through generations by parents still listening to the music of their childhood.
With notoriously bad parking rituals at the venue, I left a little early but was able to hear clearly as “Step By Step” and “Hangin Tough” rounded out the night.
While I will admit the New Kids were never my cup of tea 35 years ago, and maybe aren’t now, but they can sure put on a show, I will never argue that at all. They had men and women up and waving their arms and singing word for word. They had teens singing along with their music, and that is exactly what they want. I watched a group of ladies, probably in late 40s, doing the dances they learned 35 years ago. They were all having an amazing time reliving some of their glory years. Life longs fans that pass on their music and memories.
Follow along with the Kids and check out their first new album in 11 years New Kids On The Block
New Kids on The Block setlist: Magic, Summer Love, My Favorite Girl, Cover Girl, Dirty Dancing, You Got It (The Right Stuff), Remix (I Like The), Block Party, Tonight, Where Do I Go From Here?, Treat Me Right, Call It What You Want, Popsicle/Games/This Is How We Do It/ Stay With Me Baby, Baby I Believe in You, Never Gonna Fall In Love Again/Paradise City, Happy Birthday, Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time), Please Don’t Go Girl, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Dance With You/Love Like This, Summertime (DJ Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince), Kids, I’ll Be Loving You (Forever), Step by Step, Hanging Tough/We Will Rock You (Queen), These Are The Better Days
Paula Abdul Setlist (partial) Straight Up, Vibeology, Cold Hearted, Opposites Attract, Rush Rush, The Promise of a New Day/Knocked Out/Ain’t Never Gonna Give You Up, Forever Your Girl
DJ Jazzy Jeff setlist (partial): OPP (Naughty by Nature), Jump, Eye of The Tiger (Survivor), Jump Around (House of Pain), Let Me Clear My Throat (DJ Kool), Monkees, Cheers, The Fresh Prince theme, Super Mario Bros Rap, Uptown Funk, Living on a Prayer
Avril Lavigne and opening acts girlfriends and Simple Plan put on an electrifying show at Darien Lake Amphitheater this past Tuesday, August 20 for old and new fans showing that the emo genre is here to stay wasn’t just a phase.
Kicking off the night were girlfriends who brought an intense and energetic performance with Travis, Nick, and the rest of the band maintaining a high level of energy from start to finish.
Performing hits such as “Shut Up and Kiss Me,” “I Thought About You While I Was Taking a Shower,” and ” California” from their recent albums (e)motion sickness (2022) as well as self-titled debut album girlfriends (2020), the band was in true warm up form, channeling the headliner in their angst.
Following girlfriends was the pop-punk legend Simple Plan. They continued the high energy set by girlfriends and took it to the next level. Pierre Bouvier’s crowd interaction was outstanding, and the band’s attention to detail in engaging the crowd was truly remarkable.
Throughout their set, the audience enthusiastically sang along with the band, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The night was filled with iconic songs such as “I’d Do Anything,” “Welcome to My Life,” “Summer Paradise.” They also sang favorites like the Scooby-Doo theme song, during which they invited fans dressed as Scooby-Doo to join them on stage, and the timeless anthem “I’m Just a Kid.”
At last the iconic princess, or rather the queen of the early 2000s pop-punk era, Avril Lavigne, took the stage. Her entrance featured her past album covers, early interviews, and clips from her early career, all leading up to her grand appearance on stage. When she emerged, the crowd went wild, and she kicked off with the song “Girlfriend.”
Throughout the night, Avril had the audience in the palm of her hand, taking them on the ride of their lives. Her audience was one of the loudest of my concert season, and you could truly feel the love that her fans have for her, as well as her gratitude for every single one of them that night.
She followed up with the songs “What the Hell” and “Complicated.” During her set, she brought out Simple Plan, and they sang Simple Plan’s “Addicted” together. Avril ended the night with the iconic song “I’m With You,” and she had everyone singing along with her. She’ll be back in New York on August 27 in Wantagh at Jones Beach Theater.
Avril Lavigne Setlist: Girlfriend, What the Hell, Complicated, Here’s to Never Growing Up, Smile, My Happy Ending, Addicted (with Simple Plan), Losing Grip, Hot, Bite Me, Love It When You Hate Me, When You’re Gone, Don’t Tell Me, He Wasn’t, Sk8er Boi
South Korean soul singer, Saay, made her US debut at Elsewhere on Friday, August 9, her first show in the US after twelve years in the industry, seven of which have been as a soloist. The Korean artist recently came back with a new single, Domino, a bouncy track with digitally harmonized synth vocals, a la Imogen Heap’s hit song “Hide and Seek.” Her contract with Universal Music Korea also expired last month, but when asked about physical releases of her music during the show, she said she is planning to release a new EP next year.
Saay debuted in Korea twelve years ago as part of the group EvoL but began her solo career seven years ago with the release of her single “Circle” in July of 2017. This was a one-off show in Brooklyn, followed by another at The Moroccan Lounge in Los Angeles on August 15th. Before her Elsewhere show, she also sang “Domino” on Fox’s Good Day New York. Expect more great content from Saay this week on social media as she experiences LA and continues to share photos and videos from her show at Elsewhere.
Performance
Elsewhere Zone One provided the perfect venue for this kind of intimate, emotionally charged show full of fan interaction. As people started filtering into the venue, the room’s cumulative energy made for a shared cathartic moment. A small, low-set stage puts the artist up close with fans. The production at Elsewhere was low-key. Besides the LED panel covering the wall behind Saay, a contrasting pair of purple and blue lights lit the stage.
Korean artists are always skilled at creating meaningful interactions with their fans, but you could clearly tell how much this show meant to Saay, at times bringing her to tears. During the show, she wore a Lucky Dragon hat that a fan later recognized as one they had given Saay at a past concert. She ended her set with a song ironically titled “Encore,” which was then followed by the actual encore, her breakout hit (and a personal favorite) from 2019, “ZGZG.”
After the final song, she stayed on stage to speak candidly to the audience and to tell everyone to get home safely, stay healthy, and eat well. We look forward to seeing footage of Saay’s August 15th show at the Moroccan Lounge and wish her luck in her future endeavors. Keep an eye out for new music from Saay in the next year and, hopefully, a return to New York following her upcoming EP.
Saay – Elsewhere Zone One – August 9, 2024
Setlist: Talk 2 Me Nice, Overzone, Baad, Omega, Circle, Domino, Rocky, Sh*t Makerrrrrrrr, I’m Okay, Sweet as Hell, Encore
DIIV, a beloved band from Brooklyn, has once again captured the hearts of fans with their latest album, Frog in Boiling Water. This record showcases a band that has truly evolved while staying true to their atmospheric roots. The album and its singles—such as “Brown Paper Bag,”—have been met with widespread fan acclaim.
Frog in Boiling Water is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to DIIV’s perseverance and growth. The album’s creation was a four-year odyssey that nearly pushed the band to its limits. With a desire to push their sound to new frontiers, DIIV embarked on an ambitious journey, navigating their own relationships and the pressures of the music industry. Fraying friendships, financial strains, and creative differences marked the process, but the band emerged from this chaos with an album that dives deep into new lyrical and musical territories.
The result is a record that is as gorgeous as it is haunted. Frog in Boiling Water balances powerful rhythms inspired by post-industrial sounds, creating a sound that is both mighty and ethereal. It’s a mesmeric reflection on endurance, capturing the essence of existing.
If you missed DIIV at their most recent homecoming show at Brooklyn Paramount, make sure to catch them live the next time they’re in New York. With each performance, DIIV not only solidifies their place in the indie music scene but also redefines what it means to create immersive, emotional art.
In the large oasis that is New York State’s music scene, it may seem difficult to stand out. Of course, there must be real talent; catchy melodies and hooks, a great ensemble-band that plays live flawlessly, but there’s always that “something” more. Perhaps its the person behind the music, a personality so undeniable that one simply must come and see it and hear it for themselves.
About BlackJeans
All of this and more sums up BlackJeans, a Musician and Producer based in Ridgewood, Queens who will be presenting “The End of The World, Part 2” at Purgatory on Friday, August 10. A torchbearer representing a lost art; the art of seduction through music. All in all, BlackJeans has an impressive resume thats bound to make anyones head turn. The event will look to live up to last year’s event by being bigger and better. A tough statement to back up based on last year’s turnout.
A Musician and Producer in NYC for the last ten years, BlackJeans has packed out shows like Sofar Sounds and venues such as Sultan Room, Brooklyn Bowl and more. Moreover, BlackJeans now finds himself at his biggest moment yet. His latest single “Belladonna” is joined with other certified bops such as “Cellphone“, “Painkiller.” Additionally, songs like “All Too Much” and “Lovin Again” have accompanying music videos which premiered on Vimeo. We sat down with BlackJeans about what goes into making his music. We also discussed his highly-anticipated show on August 10 at Purgatory.
TDW: What would you say your biggest influences are?
BlackJeans: Ooh baby, these days anything that gets me hot and bothered and ready to dance. Rhythm, tempo, and anything that feels like a party. Disco, electronic, house, salsa, big band swing. Put a little dirt on it and i’ll eat it right up and howl probably.
TDW: How would you best describe your sound?
BlackJeans: Thats a great question. Typically, I would do everything I can not to describe it…I’d say it sounds like seedy basement dance music that was tucked away in a forgotten section of an old denim factory in Ridgewood, Queens. Drum and bass-groove heavy music that you’d find in a damp speak easy with neon lights. Paired well with cocktails and a late night afterparty.
TDW: What is The End Of The World?
BlackJeans: The End Of The World is an event series im continuing to throw in NY for all the sexy late bloomers, weirdos, misfits, queers, and people who know how to turn it the fuck out. Its equal parts dance party, live show, and carnival with variety performers, a live set of music and always a special guest DJ. Chock full of free prizes, drinks, and some other stuff I cant get into here. Oh, and theres always a dress code.
TDW: What plays into your songwriting?
BlackJeans: I love love. Cant get away from it. Love is a mixed bag. Covers an overwhelmingly wide range, yea? It can make you feel alive, it can mess you up, make you wanna dance, make you wanna cry…sometimes all of these things at the SAME TIME! I think that juxtaposition and duality is beautiful and were all probably feeling it effects on any given day. I don’t really believe in genre, I like too many of them and I probably haven’t even heard them all! So Im going to keep playing in as many that feel right, its 2024, best be genre bending. For now, I’m wrapped up in dance music like someone who’s been tumbling in a washing machine for 7 months straight. With no AC or lights…
TDW: What can people expect from The End Of The World Part 2
BlackJeans: Im going to be clear with you. You can expect an EP’s worth of new music, a gorilla in lingere giving a lap dance to a horse, burlesque hoola hoopers, me growing 8 feet tall, a free round of drinks, and a DJ set by Souldrippp. Shes amazing and I’m shocked we got her to agree to come here all the way from France. Thats like 27% of what you can expect. Okay?
All this to say, momentum is on BlackJeans side. While August 10 will be an evening to capitalize on. Epic tunes, costumes and gorillias galore, who know what antics him and his band well be up to this time, very limited tickets remain for The End Of The World Part 2 at Purgatory.
The Great New York State Fair 2024 initial lineup of concerts has been announced, featuring a mix of new and old and a little bit for everybody. The fair begins Wednesday, Aug. 21 and continues through Monday, Sept. 2.
Founded in 1832 by a group of local farmers for agriculture and local fairs, The Great New York State Fair became a musical showcase in the 1950s and 1960s. A variety of artists perform at the fair, including popular and up-and-comers. Last year, Salt-N-Pepa, Chubby Checker, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, The Fray, Joywave, and more appeared. Both stages are free with the price of admission.
2024 New York State Fair Concerts
photo by Allison Marie
Chevy Court Stage
Chubby Checker- Aug. 21 at 1 p.m.
Chubby Checker will be making his sixth performance at the Fair, and third in as many years. He is best known for “The Twist,” the first number-one song of all time from Billboard’s Hot 100, but also for releasing hits throughout the 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond with “The Hucklebuck,” “Slow Twistin’,” “Limbo Rock,” and more. In 2014 he was inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame. Checker is set to take the Chevy Court Stage at 1:00 p.m.
90s Rewind: Digital Underground, Tone Loc & Color Me Bad – Aug. 21 at 6 p.m.
To celebrate the fair’s opening day, a 90s rewind concert will take audiences back in time with music from 3 classic acts. Grammy-nominated group Digital Underground will kick off the event, playing hits like “The Humpty Dance” and “Kiss U Back.” Led by rapper Money-B, the group rose to stardom, incorporating elements of 70s funk into their hip-hop stylings. Their early output, including the track “I Get Around,” helped introduce the world to former member and rap legend Tupac Shakur.
Also included is 80s rap legend Tone-Loc. Known for mega hits “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina,” Tone-Loc was one of the original stars of Hip Hop. His debut Loc-ed After Darkreached no. 1 and has since been certified 2x platinum. Tone-Loc is also known for his acting, being featured in hit films like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.
Closing out this lineup is the classic 90s R&B group Color Me Badd. Together the group has sold 12 million records worldwide, with nine top 40 singles. Color Me Badd are best known for their two no. 1 singles, “I Adore Mi Amor” and “All 4 Love.” Since their breakout, they have been nominated for 2 Grammy Awards, won two Soul Train Awards, and an American Music Award.
Ace Frehley – Aug. 22 at 6 p.m.
Rock legend Ace Frehley rose to fame as the guitarist of KISS. Raised in the Bronx, Frehley was drawn to the guitar, founding KISS in 1973. His powerful riffs and solos on tracks like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City” played a large part in propelling KISS to rock stardom. In 2014 the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted Frehley as a member of KISS, with Guitar World magazine since ranking him the 15th greatest metal guitarist of all time.
Sophie B. Hawkins- Aug. 23 at 1 p.m.
American pop legend and Native New Yorker Sophie B. Hawkins is a dynamic creative force known for a spellbinding live show. Hawkins’ appearance at The Fair is part of her tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of her platinum-selling debut album, Tongues and Tails. The GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter/musician will showcase music from her well-received recently released album, Free Yourself, featuring an original new video and the single, “Love Yourself.” She challenged the norms of gender expression and sexual orientation at a time when political, social, and sexual labels were more rigid. Her career arc includes releasing six widely beloved albums, breaking chart records with her smash hit “As I Lay Me Down,” four worldwide singles from Whaler, songs in cultural touchstone TV shows and films, and a starring role as Janis Joplin in the critically acclaimed musical Room 105.
Sister Sledge- Aug. 23 at 6 p.m.
Hailing from Philadelphia, the Sledge sisters became household names and a symbol of unity with their 1979 worldwide hit and iconic album We Are Family. The legendary vocal group is responsible for some of the biggest dance anthems like “Lost in Music,” “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” and “Thinking of You.”
Sister Sledge has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, London’s Royal Albert Hall, and Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage. They have also performed at the White House, and even before Pope Francis during the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, PA. Over the years, the family group has amassed a string of Gold and Platinum hits and earned hundreds of awards and commendations, including GRAMMY Nominations for Record of the Year, Best R&B Duo or Group, and Best Produced CD for their African Eyes album. Their worldwide anthem “We Are Family” was entered into the prestigious Library of Congress in 2017.
CAIN- Aug. 26 at 6 p.m.
Pop/Contemporary Christian band and sibling trio sensation, CAIN is comprised of siblings Madison Cain Johnson, Taylor Cain Matz, and Logan Cain. They have been delighting audiences with their joyous performances since 2012 when they got their big break opening for Dave Barnes and Andrew Ripp. Since then, they have gone on to release four projects and shared the stage with artists such as TobyMac, Zach Williams, and Casting Crowns, while also performing on the famed stages of The Grand Ole Opry, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Ryman Auditorium. Following the success of their breakout album, Rise Up, which won a K-LOVE Fan Award for Top Breakout Single “Rise Up (Lazarus),” Honest Offering was released in 2022, followed by Jesus Music in 2023.
Little Anthony- Aug. 27 at 1 p.m.
Doo-wap singer Little Anthony will make his debut appearance at the Fair. With over 60 years in show business and over 50 million records sold worldwide, he has “shimmy shimmied” his way into the hearts of fans across generations. With hits including “Tears On My Pillow,” “Goin’ Out Of My Head,” “Hurt So Bad,” and “Shimmy, Shimmy, Ko-Ko Bop,” Little Anthony was inducted into the 2009 class of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and most recently inducted into the 2018 class of The Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame.
Blue Öyster Cult- Aug. 27 at 6 p.m.
Heavy metal masters Blue Öyster Cult will rock the Chevy Court stage for the band’s fourth appearance at The Fair and the first since 2017. For five decades, they have thrilled fans of intelligent hard rock worldwide with powerful albums loaded with classic songs – becoming one of very few hard rock/heavy metal bands to earn genuine mainstream critical acclaim and commercial success. The band is often cited as a major influence by other acts such as Metallica, and BÖC was listed in VH1’s countdown of the greatest hard rock bands of all time. Upon the release of BÖC’s self-titled debut album in 1972, the band was praised for its catchy-yet-heavy music and lyrics that could be provocative, terrifying, funny, or ambiguous. Their discography includes three songs that no doubt go down in history as stone-cold classics: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” “Godzilla,” and “Burnin’ for You.”
Danielle Ponder– Aug. 28 at 6 p.m.
Rochester native and soul R&B performer Danielle Ponder first worked in the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office – first as a public defender, then as a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion officer – for nearly a decade, while performing regularly throughout Rochester’s music scene. While working as a public defender, she toured Europe, opening for George Clinton. In 2018, she decided to pursue music full-time, just one week before her 40th birthday. She stepped into the national spotlight with the release of her debut album, Some of Us Are Brave, in September 2022 with her unique sound – a blend of pop, R&B, blues, rock, and soul. Currently, she’s working on her second album.
AJ McLean is known by fans across the world as a beloved member of the Backstreet Boys. As a seasoned performer, McLean has been performing some of pop music’s biggest hits – featuring tightly crafted songs, floor-shaking rhythms, and unmistakable harmonies – for over twenty years.
Over the last few years, McLean has been hitting the road with the Backstreet Boys for the band’s international, stadium-filling “DNA Tour,” which performed over 150 shows across five continents. The band, comprising McLean, Brian Littrell, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, and Kevin Richardson, also released their documentary series Making of the DNA Tour in 2022. Recently, McLean released a new single called “Electric” and will have more solo music coming out this year
Joey Fatone first rose to fame as a member of the record-shattering, multi-platinum boyband *NSYNC. Following the band’s incredible success with albums that sold over ten million copies and countless awards, Fatone took on projects spanning from television, film Broadway, and beyond. In November of 2019, during Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat series, Joey performed three days of Joey Fatone and Friends, entertaining fans alongside Chris KirkPatrick, Ryan Cabrera, Nathan Morris of BOYZ II MEN, MC Search and more. And, in August 2021, Fatone brought together brought together some of pop superstars like Wanya Morris, Nick Carter, and AJ McLean for the AFTR PRTY, an intimate pop classic for a sold-out residency in Las Vegas.
Fatone recently made headlines with a long-awaited reunion with his bandmates in NSYNC, releasing their first single in nearly 20 years in November 2023. The track, “Better Place,” was featured on the soundtrack of the third main installment in the Trolls franchise, the “Trolls Band Together.” The five members, including Fatone, Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Lance Bass, and Chris Kirkpatrick, also made headlines during a united public appearance at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards.
TLC– Aug. 23 at 8 p.m.
One of the most popular female music groups of the 1990s, TLC, is performing at The Fair on Pride Day, Friday, August 23. The ladies of TLC – Tionne “T-Boz” and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas – formed the group in 1990 in Atlanta, Georgia. The four-time GRAMMY award-winning group became one of the biggest-selling female groups of all time, producing an extensive musical resume. TLC has sold 85 million records worldwide, produced ten Top Ten singles in the U.S., and four multi-platinum selling albums, including the 1994 breakthrough CrazySexyCool. The album, which Rolling Stone recognized as one of The Best 500 Albums of All Time, produced four top-five singles including “Creep,” “Diggin’ on You,” and “Waterfalls.” This summer TLC is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the iconic album.
Dropkick Murphys– Aug. 25 at 8 p.m.
The Dropkick Murphys will return to the Chevrolet Music Festival at Chevy Court for the fourth time. The Celtic-influenced rockers have generated half a billion streams and continue to sell out venues. They’ve headlined Boston’s Fenway Park and have been personally invited to share the stage with everyone from Foo Fighters to Bruce Springsteen to Mumford & Sons. Their celebrated discography includes two critically acclaimed acoustic albums – 2022’s This Machine Still Kills Fascists and 2023’s Okemah Rising, four consecutive Billboard top 10 album debuts, along with the double-platinum classic “I’m Shipping Up To Boston.”
Joan Jett and The Blackhearts– Aug. 28 at 8 p.m.
Joan Jett and The Blackhearts formed in 1979, creating the iconic hit “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Over the next 40+ years, the band went on to amass nine Top 40 singles, including “Bad Reputation,” “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” and “Crimson and Clover.” They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015. This will be their fifth time performing at The Fair – closing out Women’s Day this year, which is very fitting for a frontwoman who broke down barriers in the mid-1970s to prove women could make it in the world of rock music. Joan Jett was rejected by 23 labels before forming her own independent record label, Blackheart Records.
Big Boi – Aug. 30 at 8 p.m.
Big Boi is a 7x Grammy Award winner best known for his work with legendary Hip Hop duo OutKast. Originating in Georgia, Big Boi helped put Atlanta on the musical map through his rapping and production work. He rose to fame with the release of OutKast’s 1994 debut Southernplayalisticcadillacmuzik, which went platinum. Their subsequent albums Stankonia and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below spawned numerous number 1 hits, making Big Boi a household name. Audiences are sure to know mega-hits like “Ms. Jackson” and “Hey Ya.” Individually, Big Boi is a force to be reckoned with, frequently cracking Billboard charts and racking up millions of streams.
Brian Kelley– Aug. 31 at 8 p.m.
DIamond-selling superstar, Brian Kelley, is first known as the Florida half of the GRAMMY-nominated Florida Georgia Line (FGL). The ACM Breakout Artist of the Decade Award recipients garnered 19 career #1s and became the first and only act to achieve two RIAA DIAMOND singles in Country music history. They have surpassed 17 billion global streams, selling more than 40 million tracks and 4.8 million albums worldwide, plus playing to over four million fans. Kelley’s “Trucks, Ducks, Bucks & Beer” is the latest preview of his much-anticipated full-length album on Big Machine Records due out this spring, having already introduced the project with “See You Next Summer,” “Dirt Cheap,” and “How We’re Livin’.”
This summer, The Homer Center for the Arts on 72 S, Main Street, in Homer is teaming up with So Good! Ice Cream to present a diverse line-up of music for the late summer.
With incredible ice cream, homemade cotton candy, unique sundaes, killer sunsets, and home of the So Good Music Series, each summer the ice cream site hosts the series. Plus, So Good! features “Adult Only” specialty ice cream for those 21+, with shows beginning at 7:00 pm.
On August 8th Colleen Kattau and Kyle Michio will be taking the stage, showcasing their talents and enhancing each other’s performance. Colleen Kattau is an award-winning blingual singer-songwriter, known for her blend of folk and latin music, her soulful voice brings the lyrics to life. As a beloved figure in the folk world, Kattau connects with the audience through her composition full of nature, social movements, and Latin American nueva canción.
Micho is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter from Syracuse with a large span of genres from folk, jazz, to classical music. His blend of sounds are both innovative and contains traditional music.
On August 22nd, Second Spring and Mr Gâs Homie Discount will be performing. Second Spring is a local Ithaca indie rock band that brings contemporary music to life. The band currently consists of members Isabella Gold, Erin Wagner, Isaiah Berger, Carys Banford and Aron Kaplan-Hall. With energetic an heartfelt performances, Second Spring has a loyal following.
Mr G’s Homie Discount blends funk, soul, and hip-hop. With a groovy and magnetic stage presence, the band has an infectious energy, making the crowd dance.
Lunar Vacation is the musical embodiment of a summer daydream. Hailing from Georgia, this indie rock quintet is made up of five lifelong friends. Their debut album, Inside Every Fig Is a Dead Wasp, was a gentle introduction to their hazy, feel-good vibe. But now, with their upcoming sophomore album Everything Matters, Everything’s Fire, they’re ready to turn up the volume and the feels.
The Show
When Lunar Vacation hit the stage at Brooklyn Steel on August 1, they weren’t just there to warm up the crowd—they were there to make sure everyone was floating on cloud nine before Vacations started their set. Starting with “Set the Stage,” they did just that. The track was like the musical equivalent of opening a window on a perfect summer day, inviting everyone to lean in and soak up the goodness.
As they transitioned into “Cutting Corners,” you could feel the energy in the room amp up. The sharp guitar riffs sliced through the Brooklyn air, locking the band into a groove that had the crowd swaying and grinning. “Unlucky” blended sadness and hope, captivating the audience with its lyrical contrast.
By the time they hit the final notes of “Tom,” the crowd was fully under their spell. The song ended the set with a burst of energy, leaving everyone feeling like they’d shared something truly special.
Lunar Vacation, with sunny tunes and deep lyrics, navigated the stage with confidence. And with Everything Matters, Everything’s Fire on the horizon, it’s clear this band is only just beginning to light up the indie music scene.
Setlist: Set the Stage, Cutting Corners, Unlucky, Monterey, Tom
