Rochester-based alternative rock/indie Americana act Public Water Supply has announced the release of their new record General Strike, to be showcased at Sun Festival, the band’s pre-eclipse event.
Sun Festival takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2024, at Essex, a music hall located at 1048 University Avenue which can hold 700 concert-goers. Public Water Supply will play their new record General Strike, plus some fan favorites. It started on Nazareth University’s campus when all five band members were enrolled for undergraduate studies. They have played on and off together since graduation in 2019 and the core group remains intact with Iggy Marino and Karis Gregory, Jr. on guitars, plus Alex Brophy on bass, and Spencer Kronrich on drums. Last summer, Tanner Kartes returned to the stage to flash his harmonica skills and rejoined as the fifth member. Public Water Supply has sold out Rochester venues such as Iron Smoke Distillery, Three Heads Brewery, and the Jackrabbit in Buffalo.
“We are calling it SUN FESTIVAL in observance of the cosmos and we will assemble in celebration of the moon, the sun, and our musical surroundings,” exclaimed Iggy Marino, the band’s frontman. “It feels like the universe is truly coming together for us and we can’t wait for our babies to hear our creation!”
The band released their first self-titled record last year, growing their fanbase dubbed the “babies,” with General Strike on its way. Billed as music written for the working class, “This album showcases the daily struggle of living, loving, and wanting to ‘stick it to the man’”, added Marino. “We’ve been re-defining our music and experimenting with our sound all year long. I think our babies are really going to notice more of a rock n’ roll feel in these songs.”
The first single, “Leila” will drop on Friday, January 12. Lead guitarist Karis Gregory, Jr. wrote the music and lyrics. “Leila is loosely inspired by the story of famed criminals, Bonnie and Clyde, two lovers on a cross-country crime spree, burning rubber and living an intense but exhilarating life,” claimed Karis. The rest of the songs on the album, including the title piece, “General Strike”, were written by lead singer and guitarist, Iggy Marino.
Tickets for Sun Festival will go on sale Friday, January 12, priced at $25 each.
The Dave Matthews Tribute Band along with opening act, The Tim Britt Band, played to a large crowd of eager fans on December 29 at the Town Ballroom in Buffalo.
As that crowd filled the venue, it was quite apparent of the varying age of the fans. And not surprising since the original DMB has been around since 1991. But when the music started there were no differences, just fans of all ages enjoying one great night. And seeing new and old fans still enjoying this music shows how timeless it is.
Opening the night, The Tim Britt Band. This four-piece band fronted by Tim Britt is a modern/alternative/folk group from Buffalo. Accompanying Tim was Evan Laedke on keys, Gerry Grismondi on bass, and Damone A-Miracle Jackson on drums. The band played a night full of well received great original songs. With the only exception being the encore, “Sledgehammer” (Peter Gabriel). This band is definitely a fun and exciting band worth checking out.
Closing out the night was The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, which started in 2004 have now played over 1,500 shows in 46 states and 8 countries. This five-piece band consists of David Suruani on drums, Gary Wilkinson on vocals and acoustic guitar, Tim Sheldon on bass, Zaxh Sweetser on keys, Alex Crizni on violin, Eric Wozniak on sax, and Sam Osmond on electric guitar (guest).
With The Dave Matthews Tribute Band being no stranger to Buffalo, making its rounds many times through the area had no problem filling the venue. And not surprising being this tribute is among the best next to the original I have ever heard. You could close your eyes and swear you were listening to DMB. And this night was exactly that. From the vocals to the drums and everything in-between, this band embodies DMB. And the energy and absolute talent were in full force playing all the hits from across the catalog. Keep an eye out for this band if you are a fan.
Setlist: Tripping Billies, Dancing Nancies, Warehouse, Crash Into Me, You Never Know, Satellite, Lie in our graves*, If Only, Two Step*, #41, Space Between, Bartender, Say Goodbye*, Crush, Ants Marching
The producers of the newly reimagined Broadway production of The Who’s TOMMY have announced full principal casting for the upcoming run at the Nederlander Theatre, with previews beginning March 8 and opening night slated for March 28.
Producers Stephen Gabriel and Ira Pittelman have selected a handful of actors who will reprise their roles from the Goodman Theatre production in Chicago. Among them are Alison Luff as Mrs. Walker, Adam Jacobs as Captain Walker, John Ambrosino as Uncle Ernie, Bobby Conte as Cousin Kevin, and Christina Sajous as The Acid Queen. The actors join previously announced Ali Louis Bourzgui starring as Tommy Walker, who is reprising his Jeff Award-winning role from the Goodman. Additional casting for The Who’s TOMMY on Broadway will be announced soon.
Completing the cast areHaley Gustafson, Jeremiah Alsop, Ronnie S. Bowman Jr., Mike Cannon, Tyler James Eisenreich, Sheldon Henry, Afra Hines, Aliah James, David Paul Kidder, Tassy Kirbas, Lily Kren, Quinten Kusheba, Reese Levine, Brett Michael Lockley, Nathan Lucrezio, Alexandra Matteo, Mark Mitrano, Reagan Pender, Cecilia Ann Popp, Daniel Quadrino, Olive Ross-Kline, Jenna Nicole Shoen, Dee Tomasetta, and Andrew Tufano.
The new production of The Who’s TOMMY premiered this past Summer at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago where Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune named TOMMY as #1 in the Best of Chicago Theater list for 2023, saying, “Tommy explodes with life – it’s a truly ready-for prime-time stunner. Broadway has nothing else like this wizardry going on.”
The Chicago production of The Who’s TOMMY won 9 Joseph Jefferson “Jeff” Awards, the most for any show this season, including Best Director for Des McAnuff and Best Production.
Three decades after the epic pop-culture musical theatre sensation first bowed on Broadway, original Tony Award®-winning creators Pete Townshend (music, lyrics, book) and Des McAnuff (book, direction) have reunited to bring the story of Tommy Walker to today’s audiences.
Myth and spectacle combine in The Who’s exhilarating 1969 rock opera, TOMMY—including the unforgettable anthems “I’m Free,” “See Me, Feel Me,” “Sensation” and “Pinball Wizard.” After witnessing his father shoot his rival, the young Tommy Walker is lost in the universe, endlessly and obsessively staring into the mirror. An innate knack for pinball catapults him from reticent adolescent to celebrity savior.
The Who’s TOMMY creative team includes choreographer Lorin Latarro (Into the Woods, Mrs. Doubtfire and Waitress); music supervision and additional arrangements by Ron Melrose (Jersey Boys on Broadway, London and National Tour); musical direction and additional orchestrations by Rick Fox (Rent, Jesus Christ Superstar); set design by David Korins (Hamilton, Beetlejuice, Here Lies Love ); projection design by Peter Nigrini (Here Lies Love,MJ and Dear Evan Hansen); costume design by Sarafina Bush (for colored girls…, Pass Over on Broadway); lighting design by Amanda Zieve (Broadway associate on Escape to Margaritaville and Allegiance); sound design by Gareth Owen (Back to the Future, & Juliet and MJ); and wig and hair design by Charles LaPointe (Hamilton, Beautiful). Casting is by Tara Rubin Casting/Merri Sugarman, CSA. Additional Chicago Casting by Lauren Port, CSA and Rachael Jimenez, CSA. Tripp Phillips is the Production Stage Manager and Bespoke Theatricals is General Manager.
Pete Townshend’s prior awards for The Who’s TOMMY include a Grammy Award (1993) for the Original Broadway Cast Recording, Tony Award for Best Score (1993), Toronto’s Dora Mavor Moore Award (1995) and the UK’s Olivier Award (1997). For directing The Who’s TOMMY, Des McAnuff received previously, the Tony and Drama Desk Awards (1993), Toronto’s Dora Mavor Moore Award (1995) and the UK’s Olivier Award (1997).
Tickets to The Who’s TOMMY at the Nederlander Theatre are now on sale at TommyTheMusical.com.
As the clock struck midnight and confetti filled the air, Billy Joel made history with his unforgettable inaugural performance at UBS Arena on New Year’s Eve 2023. Returning to Long Island for his first concert since 2018, Joel’s momentous show marked not only a thrilling start to the new year but also a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
At 74, Joel’s energy and musical prowess remained as captivating as ever. Having announced the conclusion of his decade-long residency at Madison Square Garden in July 2024, this performance became a cherished moment for fans, signaling the beginning of the end of an era. Joel’s decision to conclude the residency after his 150th show to prioritize family time underscored the significance of each live appearance, making the UBS Arena debut a cherished affair for both the legendary artist and his dedicated audience.
Billy Joel took the stage at 10:30 pm, kicking off the night with a series of enthralling performances even before the anticipated countdown to midnight. The evening commenced with the captivating Regina Spektor, setting an electrifying atmosphere and paving the way for Joel’s grand entrance. The timing was impeccable, aligning perfectly with the audience’s anticipation for the transition into the new year. As the iconic countdown from Times Square illuminated the arena, Joel seamlessly serenaded the crowd with the timeless tunes of “Auld Lang Syne,” swiftly followed by a heartfelt rendition of “All You Need Is Love.” These musical choices forged a sense of togetherness, uniting thousands in a poignant moment of celebration and unity.
Among the unforgettable moments of the evening was Joel’s surprising cover of “Start Me Up,” infusing his timeless style into the classic Rolling Stones hit. Later on, Joel shifted gears to perform “Souvenir” marking his return to the song since 2018.
At the heart of his New Year’s Eve performance at Elmont’s UBS Arena, Billy Joel paused to share a glimpse into his future plans while addressing the audience. With his trademark wit, the Piano Man reassured fans about his continued relationship with Long Island. “Just because I’m selling that house doesn’t mean I’m leaving Long Island. I still have a house on Long Island,” Joel affirmed, referring to his longtime property in the village of Centre Island. “I’m just gonna spend a little more time in Florida like old Jewish guys from Long Island do.”
Billy was accompanied by a stellar ensemble of incredibly talented musicians, each adding their unique touch to the musical extravaganza. Mark Rivera on saxophone, Tommy Byrnes on guitar, Crystal Taliefero handling percussion and lending her powerful vocals in a stunning rendition of “River Deep,” Dave Rosenthal on keyboards and serving as the musical director, Andy Cichon on bass, Chuck Burgi on drums, and Mike Delguidice on rhythm guitar and backing vocals—these individuals formed the backbone of the performance. The seamless synergy and years of collaboration between Joel and his bandmates were unmistakable, creating an electric atmosphere that ensured an unforgettable night of music and cherished memories for the audience.
The encore was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring anthems like “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” “Uptown Girl,” “It’s Still Rock and Roll,” “Big Shot,” and “You May Be Right.” Each song carried its own resonance, sparking sing-alongs and an electric atmosphere that reverberated throughout the arena.
Joel’s decision to conclude the night with this powerhouse ensemble of hits was a testament to his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience. The energy, passion, and sheer joy exuded by Joel on stage were infectious, leaving a lasting impression on Long Island and setting the bar high for future performances at UBS Arena.
As the clock struck 1 am, bringing an end to the performance, the arena echoed with cheers, applause, and a shared sense of gratitude for being part of a momentous occasion. Billy Joel’s New Year’s Eve debut at UBS Arena will undoubtedly be etched into the memories of all who were fortunate enough to witness this historic event, marking a new chapter in the legacy of one of music’s most enduring icons.
Billy Joel – UBS Arena – Sunday, December 31, 2023
Setlist: My Life, Pressure, Everybody Loves You Now, The Downeaster Alexa, Start Me Up, An Innocent Man, The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Barbara Ann, The Longest Time, Big Man On Mulberry Street, Movin Out, Half A Mile Away, Vienna, Don’t Ask Me Why, Allentown, New York State of Mind, The River of Dreams, Whole Lotta Love, Auld lang syne, All You Need Is Love, Only the Good Die Young, Nessun dorma, Scenes From an Italian Restaurant, Souvenir, Piano Man Encore: We Didn’t Start the Fire, Uptown Girl, It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me, Big Shot, You May Be Right
