NYS Music 2024

Category: News Desk

  • Elusive Lo-Fi Legend Jandek to Appear at Rosendale’s Widow Jane Mine

    Jandek, one of the most mysterious and hyper-productive legends of the lo-fi folk/outsider music movement, is slated to make a rare appearance at one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique performance venues, Widow Jane Mine, on Saturday, July 20 at 7 pm.

    The recently-formed PlayTime Presents is producing the event.  According to its founder, Jeff Economy, PlayTime is “an evolving entity dedicated to presenting unlikely music, film and media events in New York’s Hudson Valley.”  PlayTime’s most recent event was a fundraiser for local radio institution WGXC-90.7/Wave Farm featuring a collaboration between the famed “culture jammers” Negativland and video artist Sue-C at the Greenville Drive-In.

    Jandek is the musical project of Sterling Smith and his Corwood Industries, a record label operating out of Houston, Texas. Since 1978, Jandek/Corwood Industries has independently released over 125 albums/DVDs of unusual, often emotionally dissolute folk, rock, and blues songs without ever granting an interview or providing any biographical information. Jandek often plays a highly idiosyncratic and frequently atonal form of folk, rock, classical and blues music, at times using an open and unconventional chord structure. The name “Jandek” refers specifically to the musical project. www.corwoodindustries.com  

    “As a documentarian, writer, music video maker and occasional performer, I’ve had one foot planted in the music world since the late ‘80s,” says PlayTime’s Jeff Economy. “Part of my agenda with PlayTime is to give something back by putting on events that might not have happened otherwise. 

    “Despite being an active recording artist since at least 1978, Jandek remains one of the most intriguing and mysterious figures in all of music,” continues Economy. “They’ve been performing in public sporadically since 2004, but it seemed that a local show was a remote possibility at best. I extended an invitation knowing that a great venue was available and to my surprise, they accepted. With Jandek’s spectacularly wide range of music and Widow Jane’s unique space, this event is a perfect representation of our creative mission.”

    Widow Jane Mine is a circa 19th-century natural cement mine housed on the 22-acre Snyder Estate in Rosendale, N.Y. The cavernous room and pillar construction create a natural amphitheater, one with amazing acoustics and unobstructed views due to the sloping floors. Audiences of up to 500 face the stage with a pond as a backdrop and light filtering in from four openings to the outside. The venue, which has presented music, theater, raves, poetry readings and other events for over 40 years, is managed by the Century House Historical Society a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the preservation of the local history of Rosendale, New York and of the Natural Cement industry.

    For tickets, visit widowjanemine.ticketspice.com/Jandek24 or www.playtimepresents.com  

  • Cooperstown Summer Music Festival Announces Lineup

    The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival has announced the lineup for its 26th season. The festival begins July 17th, and will include six concerts. With shows ranging from jazz to blues to classical, there is a concert for everyone.

    A prior Cooperstown Summer Music Festival concert at the Christ Episcopal Church

    The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival has prided itself in presenting a high variety of quality shows for over 20 years. Founded in 1999, the festival has hosted over 100 artists in its history. In its 25 years of existence, the festival has exhibited classical, cabaret, and even special children’s concerts. Performance Today, the most popular classical radio program, has also frequently featured festival concerts.

    “Our new season features an impressive collection of performances that will bring best-in-class artists in a wide variety of genres to perform for audiences in Cooperstown,”

    – Linda Chesis, Festival founder

    The Miró Quartet will kick off the season with a July 18th program titled “Voices of Home.” Beginning in 1995, the Austin-based quartet has made a name for itself as one of the most celebrated classical groups. The band takes its name from surrealist painter Joan Miró, with much of their music reflecting themes of imagination and fantasy. The quartet has previously toured across the United States, Europe, and Asia, receiving critical acclaim wherever they go. The July 18th show, titled “Voices of Home,” will tackle themes like nostalgia and yearning. It will feature compositions by Franz Joseph Haydn, Caroline Shaw, Kevin Puts, and George Walker. This concert will take place at 7pm at Cooperstown’s Farmers’ Museum.

    July 25th will see a performance by the Caroga Arts Ensemble, titled “American Journey.” Cellist Kyle Price founded the ensemble in 2019, as part of the Caroga Arts Collective. The ensemble features prizewinning instrumentalists, music school faculty, and members of chamber groups. Since its founding, the ensemble has played at Chicago’s Symphony Center, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and more. Their July 25th show will feature pieces by American composers, such as Aaron Copland, John Corigliano, and more. The concert will take place at Cooperstown’s Farmers’ Museum at 7pm.

    Pianist Richard Goode will perform a selection of Beethoven pieces on July 30th. Famous for his emotional interpretations of classical and romantic pieces, Goode has become one of the most acclaimed pianists of our day. He has played concerts across the United States and Europe, and has hosted multiple music masterclasses. As part of this concert, Goode will perform some of Beethoven’s later work, illustrating the emotional depth of his playing. The concert will take place 7pm at the Otesaga Resort Hotel.

    Grammy award-winning vocalist Catherine Russell will perform a blues and jazz selection on August 6th. Coming from a musical family in New York, Russell has spent much of her life performing. She has previously toured with legends like Steely Dan, Paul Simon, and Cyndi Lauper. Her third album Inside This Heart of Mine reached #1 on the iTunes jazz charts upon release. Since then she has won various awards, including a Grammy for her work on the Boardwalk Empire Soundtrack. NPR hailed Russell’s vocals, saying she “wails like a horn and whispers like a snake in the garden of Eden.” She will perform at the Otesaga Resort Hotel at 7pm.

    August 16th will feature two performances as part of the program’s Family Music Fest. The concerts will be hosted by Justin Jay Hines, percussionist for the NY Philharmonic Young People’s Orchestra. These family friendly performances will begin with an interactive workshop. During this workshop, kids will learn how to make instruments from natural materials, and craft different beats. The workshop will end with a performance using these handmade instruments. These workshops will be followed by a performance from Hines. The first performance will take place at Origins cafe at 10:30am. It will be followed by a second 3pm performance at the Farmers’ Museum. These performances are free, but registration is required.

    The festival will conclude with an August 20th performance titled “Bach Again.” This performance will feature harpsichordist Bradley Brookshire, cellist Wolfram Koessel, flautist Linda Chessis, and violinist Rachell Ellen Wong. The night will celebrate the musical genius of Johann Sebastian Bach, featuring renditions of his instrumental sonatas. Mezzo-soprano Winona Martin will join these instrumentalists to perform a selection of Bach’s arias. This concert will take place 7pm at Christ Episcopal Church.

    Concert Schedule

    7/18 – Miró Quartet: Voices of Home – 7pm @ The Farmers’ Museum

    7/25 – Caroga Arts Ensemble: American Journey – 7pm @ The Farmers’ Museum

    7/30 – Pianist Richard Goode Plays Late Beethoven – 7pm @ Otesaga Resort Hotel

    8/6 – Catherine Russell, Blues and Jazz Singer – 7pm @ Otesaga Resort Hotel

    8/16 – Family Music Fest with Justin Jay Hines, Percussionist and Host of NY Philharmonic Young People’s Concerts – 10:30am @ Origins Cafe

    8/16 – Family Music Fest – 3pm @ The Farmers’ Museum

    8/20 – Bach Again – 7pm @ Christ Episcopal Church

    Tickets are $30 for all concerts, with students under 18 having a reduced price of $15. All tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information on ticketing and concerts, visit the Cooperstown Music Festival website here.

  • Artist Spotlight: Little Stranger

    Meet Little Stranger: an eclectic musical duo hailing from Charleston, South Carolina, originally rooted in the vibrant city of Philadelphia. The band is known for their unique blend of indie rap pop, infusing funky distorted guitar riffs with soulful trumpet and saxophone melodies. Their dynamic sound and playful stage presence have captivated audiences across the country, establishing them as a notable act in the contemporary music scene.

    Little Stranger
    Little Stranger @ Gov Ball 2024. Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma

    A Genre-Blending Phenomenon

    When it comes to genre-blending and innovative soundscapes, Little Stranger stands out as a trailblazer in the indie music world. The Charleston-based duo, originally from Philadelphia, has carved a niche for themselves with their eclectic mix of indie rap pop, a fusion that combines the raw energy of hip-hop with the melodic charm of indie pop and the vibrancy of live instruments.

    Roots and Formation

    Little Stranger is the brainchild of John and Kevin Shields (no relation), two musicians whose artistic synergy has led to the creation of a distinctive sound that defies conventional genre boundaries. Their journey began in Philadelphia, where they honed their craft and developed a unique musical identity before moving to Charleston. The relocation infused their music with a fresh perspective, adding layers of Southern charm to their already dynamic style.

    Little Stranger
    Little Stranger @ Gov Ball 2024. Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma

    Musical Style and Influences

    The hallmark of Little Stranger’s music is its infectious energy and playful spirit. Their songs often feature funky distorted guitar riffs, complemented by trumpet and saxophone backups that add a soulful touch to their sound. Tracks like “Coffee & a Joint” resonate deeply with their audience, offering relatable themes wrapped in catchy melodies. Their music is not only aural but also visual, with their live performances characterized by vibrant, playful antics and an engaging stage presence.

    New Single and Upcoming Album

    The duo recently released their new single “Sofia” off their upcoming album Sat Around Trippin, set to be released on June 28. “Sofia” is a groovy track that deals with a breakup in typical Little Stranger fashion, featuring quick-witted lyrics that poke fun at both their ex and themselves. The song’s playful yet introspective tone perfectly encapsulates the band’s unique approach to songwriting.

    Little Stranger
    Little Stranger @ Gov Ball 2024. Photograph by Chinaza Ajuonuma

    Live Performances and Audience Connection

    Little Stranger’s live shows are a testament to their reputation as performers who know how to entertain and connect with their audience. At events like the Governors Ball, they have wowed crowds with their high-energy sets and whimsical stage antics. Kevin’s humorous quips, such as “everything’s legal so you can do whatever you want today” and playful banter about the attractiveness of the crowd, create an atmosphere of inclusivity and fun.

    Headline Tour

    Adding to their excitement, Little Stranger is embarking on a headline tour that includes stops at Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg and Buffalo Iron Works in Buffalo. This tour promises to bring their energetic performances and distinctive sound to a wider audience, further solidifying their presence in the music scene.

    Little Stranger

    Looking to the Future

    With a growing fanbase and a string of successful performances, including their recent set at Governors Bal 2024, Little Stranger is poised to continue their ascent in the music world. Their commitment to innovation and their ability to blend genres seamlessly ensures that they remain at the forefront of the indie music scene.

    In a musical landscape often dominated by mainstream sounds, Little Stranger brings a refreshing change with their indie rap pop fusion, proving that creativity and originality still have a significant place in the industry. As they continue to evolve and push the boundaries of their sound, fans can look forward to more exciting music and unforgettable live performances from this dynamic duo.

  • Syracuse Amphitheater Announces 5 Free Concerts for Kids

    If you’re a music connoisseur searching for an entertaining kid-friendly activity this summer, Live Nation Entertainment and Empower Federal Credit Union just announced five exciting new shows in their “Kids in Free” concerts series, spanning across multiple genres—an absolute treat for everyone. The shows will take place in Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview in Syracuse.

    The series includes music giants like Santana with Counting Crows; Dan + Shay; Train and REO Speedwagon; Hootie & The Blowfish; and Xscape and SWV – promising an amalgamation of nostalgic and sensational beats to immerse yourself in this summer.

    Chris Keller, Chief Marketing Officer at Empower Federal Credit Union, commented, “This program is an example of one of the many reasons why we love being in partnership with the Amphitheater. It gives our community a wonderful place to gather, including our younger audiences. Parents, this is a great time to show your kids the music you love, and kids, this is a great chance to see just how cool your parents really are!”

    The concert series permits entry of one child, 12 and under, for free to the lawn with each paid adult ticket. Tickets are limited and are available for purchase here. Child lawn tickets will be available for pickup near the main entrance at the amphitheater.

    Kids In Free Shows at Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater:

    07/24, Santana with Counting Crows

    07/26, Dan + Shay

    07/31, Train / REO Speedwagon

    08/03, Queens of R&B featuring Xscape and SWV

    09/06, Hootie and the Blowfish

  • The Carol Theatre in Chestertown Starts Summer Season With Two Country Bands

    The Carol Theater in Chestertown, NY is kicking off their summer season with a double feature show from, The Lazy Suns and The Bluebillies on June 22.

    The Carol Theatre has been entertaining the small Adirondack town of Chestertown since 1931. It has been used as a movie theater in addition to live performances while supporting local businesses in the area.

    New York State bands will perform the first show of the summer on The Carol’s historic stage. Americana band, The Lazy Suns formed in 2010 and have received two Capital District Eddie Award nominations for best Americana Country Rock group. The Lazy Sun’s 2016 original album, Bar Hotel Music, has a western, cowpoke feel, but also uses elements of easy listening 70’s rock. 

    Another country band, The Bluebillies, are genre blenders with their country-gospel album, Train To Paradise. The Bluebillies started in 1984 with husband and wife, Mark and Melody Guarino. Frank Orsini on fiddle and guitarist Greg Bucking complete the band, now performing all over New York State.

    This summer, The Carol will also welcome a Beatles Tribute band, Across The Pond, on July 6 followed by High Peaks Bluegrass on July 20. Another tribute band, The Wheel: The Grateful Dead Experience, will perform on July 27.

    For more information on future shows and to buy tickets, you can visit their website here. 

  • Kool & The Gang and En Vogue To Perform At Tanglewood

    Kool & The Gang and En Vogue are coming to Tanglewood on June 23, performing at Koussevitzky Music Shed at 2:30 p.m.

    Kool & The Gang is an R&B, funk group known for their hits from the 70’s and 80’s. They officially formed in 1969 signing to De-Lit Records and released their first album, Kool & The Gang. “Jungle Boogie” “Get Down On It” and “Ladies Night” are just a few of their many hits from their decades of discography. 

    The band formed in Jersey City as a Jazz ensemble. This included Robert “Kool” Bell on Bass, Ronald Bell on Keyboards, Robert “Spike” Mickens on Trumpet, Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas on saxophone, Ricky West on keyboards, George Brown on drums, and Charles Smith and Woody Sparrow on guitar. Now, Robert Bell, trumpet player, Michael Ray and Keyboardist, Curtis “Fitz” Williams make up the Grammy Award winning group.

    Soul trio, En Vogue are joining Kool & The Gang on stage performing their hits from the 90’s. They have sold 20 million records worldwide and have won seven MTV Music Video Awards along with three Soul Train Awards. In 1988 Dawn Robinson, Cindy Herron, and Maxine Jones and Terry Ellis made the final cut for the girl group and they were signed to Atlantic Records. Now the group is a trio consisting of Ellis, Rhona Bennett and Cindy Herron. They’ve released seven studio albums, most recently Electric Cafe in 2018.

    Last Year, En Vogue performed at the Fourth of July Tanglewood celebration. This summer music festival is located in the Berkshire hills in Western Massachusetts.

    For More Information and to purchase tickets you can visit the Tanglewood website.

  • Louis Armstrong House Museum Wins National Museum Award

    What a wonderful world it is for Queens’ Louis Armstrong House Museum after winning the IMLS National Medal for Museums, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. The beloved monument was among the 10 Museum and Library Awards recipients, while the Louis Armstrong House Museum is the only honor recipient in New York State. Executive Director Regina Bain will accept the award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. in July.

    Executive Director Regina Bain will accept the ISML National Medal for Museums on behalf of Louis Armstrong House
    Executive Director Regina Bain will accept the award on behalf of the Louis Armstrong House Museum

    In her role Brooklyn-based educator and artist Regina Bain look to preserve and further the legacy of America’s first Black popular music icon. Sharing, “This signifies recognition of our dedication to preserving the legacy of Louis Armstrong, a cultural icon whose impact transcends generations and borders. It also serves as a validation of our mission to preserve and interpret Armstrong’s house and grounds, collect and share archival materials that document Armstrong’s life and legacy, develop programs for the public that educate and inspire, and engage with contemporary artists to create performances and new works.” Moreover, in her role Bain further connects the LAHM’s family-friendly blend of arts and education with its surrounding community. 

    About the Louis Armstrong House Museum

    Following Louis Armstrong’s passing in 1971. His wife, Lucille, continued to live in their home — on 107th Street in Corona, Queens — working to ensure that it became a National and New York Historic Landmark. After Lucille’s passing in 1983, she willed the home and its contents to the city of New York which designated the City University of New York, Queens College to shepherd the process. Despite a slow churn, the archives became public in the ’90’s, while the historic home opened for tours in 2003. In the time since the LAHM has become its own entity with official non-profit status.

  • Dopapod Announce Indefinite Hiatus

    On the heels of a performance in Saranac Lake this weekend, jam band stalwarts since 2008, Dopapod, have announced an indefinite hiatus, beginning at the end of 2024.

    The group also announced ‘Best Friends 2024’ Fall Tour dates, with more to be announced.

    Shared on the band’s social media channels, the band’s message stated:

    To our family, friends, and fans:

    Before we get into the details and such, we’ll just get right to the point: Starting in 2025, Dopapod will no longer be touring, recording, or writing for the foreseeable future.

    The last sixteen years have been an unbelievable adventure. We really did get to experience the whole spectrum of having a full time, professional touring band. To paraphrase Homer Simpson: ‘The dizzying highs, the crushing lows, the creaaaaamy center.’ All of it, the highs, lows, and everything in between has been an absolute treasure trove of life and learning experiences.

    dopapod hiatus announcement

    However, the price we have paid mentally, financially, physically and otherwise can no longer be ignored. We feel deep down in our guts and our hearts that this is the best possible thing not for the band, but for four dudes who truly love each other and want the best for each other. And to be clear, our families have always offered full support of this lifestyle and did not play a role in this decision. The touring life has never been easy and it seems to be getting more difficult. We send our love to all the artists/crew that put so much of their heart and soul into making live music possible.

    Coincidence or not, we did say when we took our last break that we were inspired by an article where a company would take a sabbatical every 7 years, and it’s been 7. Plus, in 2017 we had a full solar eclipse and this year we had another. Regardless of all that, we are treating this as an indefinite hiatus.

    dopapod hiatus announcement

    We love you all and have endless appreciation for this journey and everyone who has enjoyed the music we’ve put out into the world this last decade and a half. In the meantime, we will continue to play tons of shows through the remainder of 2024, including all of these ‘Best Friends 2024’ fall tour dates in addition to the already announced summer dates. So come see us while you can. We fully intend on giving you the best shows we can possibly deliver, and savoring every second of it.

    With immense love and gratitude,

    Eli, Rob, Chuck and Neal,

    dopapod.

    dopapod hiatus announcement

    While a surprise to many of the broader Dopasquad fanbase, artists are finding it tougher to be on the road financially, as well as the burden of touring consistently. Bands including Aqueous, Ghost Light, Baked Shrimp, and CBDB have all called it a day since 2021, many citing the costs of touring and the personnel that go with it, while others (Twiddle and Turkuaz in particular) see variations of the original lineup continuing on (Mihali, Cool Cool Cool, respectively).

    Dopapod joining this fraternity – one that could be found gracing the lineups of numerous festivals in the past decade (Catskill Chill, among others) – is a symptom of the post-pandemic world where costs are higher, even if audiences are coming out to see and support artists.

    dopapod
    Photo by: Andy Hill Dopapod at Catskill Chill 2014

    Dopapod formed at Berklee College College of Music in Boston in 2008, with Eli Windermand and future Turkuaz drummer Michelangelo Carubba as a duo. Later, Rochester native Rob Compa joined the band, adding in Chuck Jones on bass and Neal Evans on percussion, shifting to drums when Carubba joined Turkuaz. Scotty Zwang replaced Evans from 2013-16 behind the kit.

    NYS Music has covered Dopapod countless times in the past decade, from show reviews, interviews with band members, to reviews of many of the group’s palindromic albums – Radar, Drawn Onward, Redivider, Never Odd or Even, Megagem, Emit Time, Dopapod, and 2024 releases Aiboh and Phobia (combined, aibohphobia is the fear of palindromes). We wish the band members the best through their remaining shows and what lays ahead.

    photo by Filip Zalewski

    The band will continue to tour this summer, including a show at The Waterhole in Saranac Lake on Friday, June 21, Great South Bay Festival on July 20, and Bearsville Theater in Woodstock on September 13. Tickets go on sale Thursday, June 20 at Dopapod.com.

    photo by Conor McMahon

    Dopapod Tour Dates

    6.21 – Saranac Lake, NY

    6.22 – Jay, VT

    7.11 – Montclair, NJ

    7.12 – Portland, ME

    7.13 – Lake George, NY – Rock the Dock

    7.14 – Bridgeport, CT

    7.16 – Waynesboro, VA

    7.17 – Wilmington, NC

    7.18 – Virginia Beach, VA

    7.19 – Elkton, MD

    7.20 – Patchogue, NY – Great South Bay Festival

    8.01 – Whitestown, IN

    8.02 – Ludington, MI – w/ TAUK and The Motet

    8.03 – Paw Paw, MI – w/ The Motet and TAUK

    8.04 – New Berlin, IL – w/ TAUK and The Motet

    8.31- Morgantown, WV

    9.1- Garrettsville, OH – Summerdance

    9.4- Raleigh NC

    9.5- Knoxville TN

    9.6- Nashville TN

    9.7- Chicago IL

    9.8- Lexington KY

    9.11- Richmond VA

    9.12- Harrisburg PA

    9.13- Woodstock NY – Bearsville Theater

    10.22- St Louis MO

    10/23- Kansas City MO

    10/25+26- Denver CO TBA

    10/27- Salt Lake City UT

    10/29- Boise ID

    10/30- Portland OR

    10/31- Bend OR

    11/1- Spokane WA

    11/2- Bellingham WA

    11/3- Seattle WA

    11/6- Chico CA

    11/7- Mill Valley CA

    11/8- Santa Cruz CA

    11/9- Hermosa Beach CA

    11/10- Los Angeles CA

    11/11- Pioneertown CA

  • Chenango Blues launches 2024 Thursday Concert Series in Norwich

    The Chenango Blues Foundation has announced its Thursday summer concert series spanning from July 11th to August 29th at East Park in Downtown Norwich, NY, who will host free concerts every Thursday in the leadup to the Chenango Blues Festival on August 16th. These Summer concerts are free, allowing concert-goers to enjoy world class talent at no cost. 2024’s lineup provides a diverse array of genres, including blues, roots rock, and psychedelic. 

    Since 2003, the Chenango Blues Foundation has put on free concerts for Norwich residents highlighting blues talent. This aids in their mission to foster the appreciation of American musical arts through accessible performances. As part of this mission, the foundation has presented free concerts by American blues legends such as Shemekia Copeland in 2021. The Summer concert series has also featured legends of big-band jazz, and zydeco, including multiple shows by the Glenn Miller Orchestra. 

    Eric Lindell will kick off the Summer series on July 11th with his trademark brand of Americana. Lindell’s strain of music mixes Southern R&B, West Coast Rock, and Soul to create an infectious sound. This performance marks Lindell’s third performance at the Chenango Thursday Concert Series, having previously played in 2007, and 2008.

    Eric Lindell will play the Chenango Blues Thursday concert series on July 11
    Eric Lindell

    New Orlean’s the Iguanas will grace the concert series with a July 18th show. The Iguanas have toured for three decades with few lineup changes, crafting a fun and almost brotherly attitude in their music. The band’s style of roots rock connects genres ranging from New Orleans jazz, blues, tejano rock, and Caribbean music.

    The James Hunter Six will close out July with an evening concert on July 25th. MOJO magazine hailed Hunter as “the United Kingdom’s greatest soul singer.” Since starting his career over 30 years ago, Hunter has played guitar and backing vocals for Van Morrison, and received a Grammy nomination for “Best Traditional Blues Album.” Hunter will perform while in the US on a larger tour with Bonnie Raitt. 

    Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds will kick off the festival’s August lineup. Headed by singer Arleigh Kincheloe, the Brooklyn based band has made a name for themselves with their electrifying soul. For their headlining shows, festival performances, and residencies, NPR hailed them as “one of the biggest voices in rock music.” With very limited dates, this performance is sure to be one of the group’s only free shows. 

    Sister Sparrow

    August 8th will see a special performance by the Garcia Project. The Garcia Project is dedicated to faithful recreations of Jerry Garcia Band concerts from 1976-1995. These concerts are not covers, but thoughtful musical arrangements meant to evoke the emotions of classic Garcia concerts. This concert is perfect for enjoyers of Garcia’s classic work or those who enjoy psychedelic and jam band music. 

    August 15th will feature a special Blues Fest pre-show with Blood Brothers. The duo consists of blues guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia. Both Zito and Castiglia are renowned musicians in their own right. In 2022, Zito won the Blues Music Award for “Best Blues Album,” and Castgilia won the BMA for “Blues Rock Artist.” Together, the duo are more than the sum of their parts, featuring immensely collaborative performances and songwriting. This concert will kick off the weekend-long Chenango Blues Festival.

    Following the Blues Festival, the Thursday concert series will return on August 22nd with a performance by Sam Bush. This legendary artist spearheaded the “newgrass” movement, creating a new progressive style of bluegrass. Bush’s sound melds traditional bluegrass with long rock jams, and even aspects of Bob Marley’s reggae. Bush is a Bluegrass Hall of fame inductee, 3x Grammy winner, and Americana Music Association lifetime achievement award winner. Since beginning his career, Bush has collaborated with legends like Emmylou Harris, Garth Brooks, and Bela Fleck.

    Musical innovator Keller Williams will close out the summer season with an August 29th performance. Williams is not bound by conventional notions of genre, seamlessly shifting between rock, funk, and blues. With this eclectic mixing of styles, no two shows by Williams will ever be the same. Keller will play solo, accompanying himself on guitar, bass, synthesizer, and drum sampler. Williams has dubbed this style “Acoustic dance music,” which is sure to make for an engaging and danceable show.

    Keller Williams

    Summer Concert Series Schedule

    7/11 @ 7:00pm – Eric Lindell

    7/18 @ 7:00pm- The Iguanas

    7/25 @ 7:00pm- James Hunter Six

    8/1 @ 7:00pm- Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds

    8/8 @ 7:00pm- The Garcia Project

    8/15 @ 6:30pm- Blood Brothers

    8/22 @ 7:00pm- Sam Bush

    8/29 @ 7:00pm- Keller Williams

    For more information on performers, location, and times, visit the Chenango Blues Festival website here.

  • The Broadway Collection Releases Documentary Short Film

    The Broadway Collection released their first ever documentary short film on June 6. Aimed at the travel industry, the short film emphasizes Broadway’s importance to New York culture, proving no trip to NYC is complete without a trip to the theater.

    Produced by The Broadway Collection and directed by two time Emmy-nominated Jonathan Theodore Baker, the short film is the first of an ongoing video series. Known for the MSNBC films’ documentary “Serving in Secret”, Baker’s prolific career includes award winners and work on box office hits.

    The film features Gavin Creel, a Tony and Olivier Award-Winning Bradway star. Following Creel, the film chronicles his journey to Broadway from childhood. Creel and Baker have been lifetime friends, from performing in their hometown of Findlay, Ohio, to the professional stage.

    The documentary features actress/singer Sara Bareilles (Waitress), Tony-nominated actress Eva Noblezada (Hadestown, The Great Gatsby), director Sammi Cannold (How to Dance in Ohio), and actress/singer Jacqueline Arnold (Moulin Rouge!). Filmed at pre- and post-show hotspot Bond 45, Creel and the special guests discuss the state of Broadway in 2024.

    The aid from hotels and restaurants is testament to the deep ties Broadway has to the community. The theater’s importance to New York’s culture and tourism is difficult to overstate. The Broadway Collection is dedicated to helping New York City visitors experience the theater, including Broadway and off-Broadway productions, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York City Ballet. The Collection has tickets to suit various tastes and budgets, and has deep connections to the professional travel industry.

    The documentary is available below.