Experimental duo Vapor Vespers have released their sophomore album titled, Ghosts Before Breakfast and announced a few upcoming tour dates this May.
Ghosts Before Breakfast is the group’s second long-playing release, the follow-up to their critically-acclaimed 2020 debut, One Act Sonix. The sophomore album consists of 10 music-driven spoken word tracks. The duo will be supporting the release of their new album with select shows in New York City and the Hudson Valley this May.
Vapor Vespers is the brainchild of NYC-based multi-instrumentalist/producer Sal Cataldi and award-winning playwright, actor, and slam poet Mark Muro. The duo’s latest collection ups the ante on the cool grooves, intense guitar riffage, synth textures and the verbal hijinks and narrative absurdity showcased on their debut. The duo takes performative arts to the next level by blending intense spoken word with progressive and electrifying hypno-funk.
The Vapor Vespers are also holding mini-sets during performance by Cataldi’s Spaghetti Eastern Music at Silvana Harlem on May 23. Further, the duo sees the stage at Pangea in the East Village on May 25. More shows may be added.
Ghosts Before Breakfast was produced, engineered and mastered by Sal Cataldi aboard his houseboat in Port Washington, Long Island. The album covers themes of sex, mystery, art, literature, love, and themselves. The duo expels sound that are everything but standard. Some of their sound includes electro-funk, experimental synth, progressive, jazz and more.
For more information on Vapor Vespers and their album Ghosts Before Breakfast, click here.
The City of Albany has announced the lineup for the annual Alive at 5 concert series for 2024. The free shows are held Thursdays from June 6 to August 1 (except July 4) from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Alive at 5 concerts take place at Jennings Landing in Albany, with views of the Hudson River beyond the stage. Parking is available at the Riverfront Garage at 2 Columbia Street and Quackenbush Garage at 25 Orange Street for $8 starting at 4 p.m.
At Alive at 5, there are a few no-no’s – no alcohol, coolers, backpacks, bags, containers, packages, thermoses, cups, bottles, cans, flasks, glass containers of any kind, recording of performances, or pets – these are not allowed at the concerts. Additionally, all Albany parks are tobacco-free.
In the event of rain, the rain location is under the 787 overpass at the Corning Preserve Boat Launch.
Alive at 5 2024 Lineup
June 6: Pride Night – Let’s Sing Taylor with Sydney Worthley
LET’S SING TAYLOR
Let’s Sing Taylor – A Live Band Experience – is the ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift. We can show you incredible things, including the most faithful and lively covers of Queen Taylor’s expansive and sacred catalog. Taking the country by storm, we’re bringing the communal experience of celebrating Taylor’s music in a live setting to Swifties near and far. So, let the games begin. Calling all Swifties to sing your hearts out and sport your Taylor inspired attire. You can show up at our party any time.
SYDNEY WORTHLEY
Sydney Worthley is a singer/songwriter at heart with influences from the pop world. She pulls influences from Taylor Swift, Phoebe Bridgers, Kate Bush, and The 1975. While the production of her single “How Soon Is Now?” draws from the 80s with dreamy synthesizers and echoing drums, it can be stripped down to its core to reveal a story of wondering when the heartbreak will end. Prepare yourself for topics of growing pains, raising your standards, speculating about the one that got away, imposter syndrome, and so much more. Get ready for the emotional rollercoaster Sydney Worthley and her electric band brings to the stage.
Dokken exploded out of the boiling hard rock/heavy metal scene in Los Angeles in the early 1980s. 1983’s“Breaking the Chains” with its catchy title track, set the stage for Dokken becoming the most dominant creative and commercial force in the world of Melodic Hard Rock for the following years. DOKKEN is now Don Dokken (vocals), Mick Brown (drums), Jon Levin (guitar) and Chris McCarvill (bass).
HARK
Local veteran to the Capital District music scene put together an extraordinary party cover band in the last few years and named it “Hark” to separate it from her original works. The band features a young sharp line up of some of the best musicians in the area with an eclectic and diverse song list to go along with Harkes’ signature powerhouse vocals.
June 20: Latin Night – Toto Puente Jr. with Bronte Roman
TITO PUENTE JR.
Tito Puente Jr. carries his father with him – imprinted on his physical being and locked in his soul. It’s in his looks, his joy, and his music. Tito, Jr. is on a passionate mission. The younger Puente is determined to nurture the musical legacy left by his father. “People who don’t know anything about Latin music know my father and people always, always smile when they say my father’s name,” he confides. “That is a very special gift I have been given.” Tito, Jr. lives in South Florida and has two children, Miranda and Antonio.
BRONTE ROMAN
Bronte Roman from Brooklyn offers an 8-10 piece group. This high-spirited Pop Contemporary Vocalist shines with her melodic, rich tones and musicality for a variety of Genres. Bronte loves highlighting her Puerto Rican heritage by performing Latin-Pop and Spanish Classic hits. Bronte is excited to debut her new release,” The Dark Side” in English and Spanish.
“Always building up, falling apart. Love is an art,” sings Vanessa Carlton on the title track of her sixth album, Love Is An Art. Like the record itself, the song is a meditation on the eternal seesaw that is human connection: the push, the pull, the balance, the bottoming out.
CANELLA
The members of indie-rock band Canella love to create. Juliana Castrillón, lead singer and songwriter from Bogotá, Colombia, brings her criss-cross applesauce bedroom acoustic songs to the rest of the band. Bassist Joe Taurone, guitarist Gabe Klingler-Horn, and drummer Dan Carr, take the songs in, and output what they think is right, funny, or stupid. They have won a couple of awards from the local college radio station WCDB in 2021 and 2022 for ‘Best Song of the Year’. Canella has heavy riffs and pop melodies that they’d love to share with you.
July 11: Hip Hop Night – KRS-One with DJ Show and Ohzhe
KRS-ONE
Appearing on the rap scene in 1986 as Boogie Down Productions releasing his first hit single “South Bronx” with his late DJ Scott La Rock, KRS “the one” made it clear that Hip Hop was going to have to take itself a lot more seriously than simply being a music genre. KRS, an acronym for ““Knowledge Reigning Supreme”, has been called the “conscience of Hip Hop” (Rolling Stone), “the greatest live emcee ever” (The Source), the “spokesperson for Hip Hop” (Wall Street Journal), “master teacher” (Zulu Nation) and the “son of Hip Hop” (Kool DJ Herc). Operating as a kind of “pop-up” school, KRS-One’s Temple of Hip Hop has appeared in various cities in USA also in the UK and Europe offering the more serious student of Hip Hop an effective way to live and understand the culture of Hip Hop more deeply.
DJ SHOW
DJ SHOW, born and raised in the Bronx, fell in love with Hip-Hop early on, inspired by mentors like DJ Joey O and legends such as Kid Capri. Once he received his first set of turntables from his parents at 12 years old, SHOW’s hobby turned into a career path.
OHZHE
Hip-Hop Artist – songwriter Ohzhe brings his charisma and versatility to the stage with his ability to connect to his audience through relatability and vulnerability. Coming from upstate NY, Ohzhe looks to inspire his city with his perspective, lyrics and lifestyle.
July 18: Reggae Night – Third World with Upstate Reggae Possie
THIRD WORLD
Celebrating 50 years, ‘Reggae Ambassadors’, THIRD WORLD is one of the longest-lived Reggae bands of all time, and one of Jamaica’s most consistently popular crossover acts among international audiences. Mixing in elements of R&B, funk, pop, and rock and, later on, dancehall and rap, Third World’s style has been described as “reggae-fusion”.
UPSTATE REGGAE POSSIE
Upstate Reggae Possie is the ultimate traditional Dancehall Experience with a profound Roots flavor. Originally from Jamaica and Trinidad, each of the 4 singers charm their audiences in a unique style. Reggae with Soul, Harmony and Dance moves to Rock New York and Beyond.
July 25: Rock Night – The Record Company with Sirsy
THE RECORD COMPANY
When The Record Company pick up their instruments, the members—Chris Vos [guitar, lead vocals, harmonica], Alex Stiff [bass, backing vocals], and Marc Cazorla [drums, backing vocals]—participate in a musical back-and-forth akin to a formative and supportive conversation among siblings. The GRAMMY Award-nominated trio only amplify the power of this bond on their fourth full-length offering and 2023 debut for Round Hill Records.
SIRSY
Hailing from Upstate NY, SIRSY plays sassy singer-songwriter pop-rock with lots of heart and soul. Sirsy is known for their passionate, honest, heartfelt live performances that have a charming intensity, loads of stories from the road, and even some nerdy jokes. They can somehow make an audience sing along, dance, laugh, and cry – all at the same show. You will be moved.
August 1: Funk Night – Galactic with Jelly Joseph and Hilltop
GALACTIC feat JELLY JOSEPH
History doesn’t stand still. It impacts, influences, and inspires the ebb and flow of the future by informing the present. Galactic draw on 25 years together in order to progress with each performance and subsequent record. After 10 albums, over 2,000 gigs, and tens of millions of streams, the proud New Orleans, LA quintet—Ben Ellman [saxophone, harmonica], Robert Mercurio [bass], Stanton Moore [drums, percussion], Jeffrey Raines [guitar], and Richard Vogal [keyboards]—have kept the torch burning through five U.S. presidential regimes, the turn-of-the-century, Hurricane Katrina, a Global Pandemic, and a much-anticipated recovery.
HILLTOP
Hilltop is a four piece Funk Rock band from Albany, NY. Over the past six years they’ve made a name for themselves with carefully crafted originals, mind bending improvisation & fun, diverse covers. Each member offers a proficient, unique approach to their instrument that defines the musical experience. Hilltop has already been featured on bills with headlining acts like Dark Star Orchestra, moe, Eggy and many more. They are currently touring to promote their new EP, Getting There Together. This band of young musicians is eager to spread their music and will continue to engage crowds wherever they go.
In the midst of a great run of releases, Conway The Machine remains as prolific as ever with the release of his latest EP, Slant Face Killah. This latest effort follows a continuous run of projects that solidify Conway as a solo force in hip hop. This time the Buffalo native has tabbed a host of legendary and contemporary figures for guest appearances and production.
Notably, Slant Face Killah features Wu Tang members Raekwon and Method Man, along with Joey Bada$$, Stove God Cooks, Tech N9ne, Memphis native Key Glock and west coast stalwarts Ab-Soul and Larry June. Moreover, Slant Face Killah sees production from Swizz Beats, Cool & Dre, Don Cannon, Conductor Williams, Daringer and The Alchemist. All in all, Conway The Machine presents another diverse project testing his songwriting prowess and his adaptability with various forms and sounds of hip hop.
Slant Face Killah continue Conway The Machine’s prolific run of releases.
Conway The Machine On The Rise
However, since the release of 2022’s God Don’t Make Mistakes, commercial breakthroughs have become the norm for The Machine. In like manner, his success continued in 2023 in what was Conway’s most commercial and critically successful year to date. Notably, in May of 2023, Conway released his Drumwork debut Wont He Do It and with it launched a worldwide tour. He returned with a ensemble label album in Conway The Machine Presents: Drumwork The Label and followed that with the Speshal Machinery (with frequent collaborator 38 Spesh), Palmero (with Wun Two) and Conductor Machine (with Conductor Williams), and most recently Hall & Nash 2 with Westside Gunn and produced by The Alchemist.
Known for the quality and quantity of his output, Conway The Machine returns after a yearlong sabbatical in between solo projects. The 14-track project spanning 1 hour and 6 minutes will serve to remind fans of the rapper’s lyrical prowess, while solidifying his curation and songwriting, key attributes as he heads his label Drumwork.
A new partnership with The Town of Guilderland will bring Playhouse Stage Company to the Guilderland Performing Arts Center Stage (GPAC) in Tawasentha Park this summer. Following its run at Albany’s Park Playhouse from June 18 through July 14, Playhouse Stage’s The Marvelous Wonderettes will play an encore weekend in Guilderland from July 19-21.
All seating will be free on a first-come, first-served basis, at 7:30 p.m. performances Friday through Sunday, and an additional 4:00 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Playhouse Stage Company has been producing free, outdoor summer musicals at Albany’s Park Playhouse since 1989, and has been presenting musicals year-round at the historic Cohoes Music Hall since 2016.
The Marvelous Wonderettes tells the story of a group of friends who become the impromptu entertainment at their High School prom in 1958, singing the girl group pop songs of the decade in four-part harmony. Act Two sees the friends reunite to perform at their ten-year reunion, singing the music of the girl groups of the Sixties. With beloved songs such as “Mr. Sandman,” “Lollipop,” “Heatwave,” “Son of a Preacher Man,” and “Respect,” audiences are treated to a night of harmonious hits, wrapped around a touching and funny story of enduring friendship.
The production is directed and choreographed by Ellie Francis, who appeared on-stage as Pythio in 2022’s PSC production of Head Over Heels. Long-time PSC associate Brian Axford, will music direct and lead the live, on-stage band for the production. “We are thrilled to welcome Playhouse Stage Company to perform at GPAC this summer and we look forward to a long-term relationship with the area’s premier musical theatre organization,” added Town Supervisor Peter G. Barber. “I also extend my appreciation to former State Senator George Amedore for his generous support for GPAC’s renovation which has helped bring new entertainment options to our community.” The Guilderland Town Board officially approved the Playhouse partnership at a May 7, 2024 meeting.
We are tremendously excited about this new partnership, and new opportunity to achieve our mission making the arts accessible to all in the Capital Region community. Through the support of the Town of Guilderland, all seating for this encore weekend in Tawasentha Park will be available free-of-charge to both residents and visitors. We are grateful to Town Supervisor, Peter Barber, the Guilderland Town Board, and the staff who have worked to make this inaugural year of this partnership a reality.
Tickets for reserved seating for the run of The Marvelous Wonderettes at Albany’s Park Playhouse are now on sale through The Playhouse Stage Box Office at Cohoes Music Hall, by phone at 518-434-0776, or online. The 2024 Playhouse Stage Company Summer Season will continue in July and August with runs of the musicals Legally Blonde and Disney’s Finding Nemo playing at Cohoes Music Hall.
The 2024 Artpark summer lineup offers concert-goers a wide variety of live performances including everything from jazz to rock. 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Artpark, with a host of live shows, art exhibitions and an anniversary gala scheduled for the summer.
Artpark is Located in Lewiston, NY, a short 30 minute drive north of Buffalo. Artpark combines Western New York’s cultural heritage with the natural scenery of the Niagara region. On top of all of this is a concert venue that has hosted tens of thousands of artists.
Artpark was established in 1974, through a partnership between New York State Parks and the Artpark & Company nonprofit. At its inception, Artpark was a haven for experimental and visual arts. Most works placed a focus on public engagement, nature and the impermanence of art. Artpark has hosted theater productions and musical artists from around the world on one of the largest and best-equipped stages in all of New York.
Gary Clark Jr – May 25
Artpark is just one stop for 4x Grammy winning multi-instrumentalist and singer Gary Clark Jr. during his American tour. The tour celebrates Clark’s 2024 album JPEG RAW. The album combines genres ranging from pop, blues and R&B, and social commentary to create a compelling and anthemic release.
Los Lonely Boys – May 31
Brothers Henry, Jojo and Ringo Garza formed Los Lonely Boys, a San Angelo, TX trio. They gained prominence with their take on Texican rock & roll, which tackles themes of brotherhood. The brothers have sold over 2.5 million records, and have won a grammy. They have also received acclaim from legends like Santana, Dr. John and The Who. Their 2024 tour comes in the leadup to a new album.
Sarah McLachlan – June 18
Artpark is just one stop on Sarah McLachlan’sFumbling Towards Ecstasy 30th anniversary tour, celebrating her multi-platinum 1994 album. McLachlan is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of our times, winning 3 Grammys, and 12 Juno Awards. She raised over $7 million through her Lilith Fair music festival, the largest all-female music event of all time.
Bonnie Raitt – June 21
Legendary singer-guitarist Bonnie Raitt, has been captivating audiences with her cross-genre blending of blues, rock and pop for decades. Raitt is a 13x Grammy winner, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee. She has also ranked on Rolling Stone’s lists of Greatest guitarists and singers of all time. Artpark is one stop on Raitt’s cross-country 2024 tour.
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue – June 22
Trombone Shorty, is renowned for his eclectic blend of jazz, rock, fun, pop and hip hop. He has released four chart topping albums, collaborated with everyone from the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Pharell Williams and played venues ranging from the Newport Jazz Festival to the White House. Trombone Shorty and his band, Orleans Avenue, will be gracing Artpark with what is sure to be a vibrant performance.
Dispatch – June 28
Vermont roots rock band Dispatch have drawn massive crowds for almost three decades. They rose to fame with their infectious blend of alternative, folk, reggae, and blues. Dispatch’s mix of pointed lyrics and lively instrumentation has consistently drawn massive crowds. They sold out Madison Square Garden three times, and drawing crowds of over 100,000 fans in Boston in 2004.
Orville Peck – July 1
The masked alt-country star, Orville Peck, will perform at Artpark as part of his Stampede tour across North America. Peck combines his smooth voice and vivid songwriting to tackle topics such as his sexual identity. Peck leads a new style of country music, reminiscent of the classics, but also looking to the future. His career has featured musical collaborations with the likes of Shanaia Twain and Diplo.
Norah Jones – July 6
Multi-Grammy winning singer-songwriter Norah Jones will grace Artpark with her acclaimed mix of pop, jazz and folk. This concert is part of a larger American tour in the wake of her 2024 album Visions. Since her 2002 debut Come Away with Me, Jones’s introspective approach to lyrics and intimate production has garnered massive commercial success. Jones has sold over 52 million albums, and received over 10 billion streams worldwide.
Jamey Johnson – July 16
The Washington Post lauded 11x Grammy nominated Jamey Johnson as “one of the greatest country singers of our time.” His vivid storytelling lyrics and rootsy instrumentation evoke classic Nashville. Johnson has received critical and commercial acclaim, thanks to the likes of modern classics like “In Color” and “Give it Away.” Johnson is performing at Artpark as part of his cross-country What a View Tour.
Train – July 19
Pop-radio mainstays Train will be performing at Artpark as part of their larger Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour. The San Francisco pop-rockers have received international renown, selling 10 million albums and 30 million tracks worldwide. Audiences are sure to know mega-hits like “Hey Soul Sister” and “Drops of Jupiter.”
The Flaming Lips – July 22
Alternative rock mainstays, The Flaming Lips, have spent almost four decades releasing critically acclaimed indie classics like “Do You Realize.” The Flaming Lips will bring their signature psychedelic, sci-fi influenced strain of indie rock, accentuated by singer Wayne Coyne’s playful yet profound approach to lyricism.
Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo – July 24
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo are a singer-producer duo who have been mainstays of pop-rock radio since the 1980s. They rose to fame producing timeless classics like “We Belong,” and “Love Is a Battlefield.” Along with these hits, the duo have produced 19 top 40 hits, and sold over 36 million worldwide. The duo’s success has brought them critical acclaim, receiving 4 consecutive Grammy awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Two Door Cinema Club – July 29
Two Door Cinema Club, a Northern Irish indie band, have made waves across the pond since their 2010 debut Tourist History. Their sophomore release Beacon debuted at number 1 on the Irish charts and number 2 in the UK. The band quickly became mainstays at British festivals like Leeds and Glastonbury ever since, being famous for their live performances.
Slash – S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival – July 30
The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival is short for “Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance.” It is a celebration of the blues headed by legendary guitarist Slash of Guns N’ Roses. The festival features thrilling performances from blues veterans like Keb Mo, ZZ Ward and Robert Randolph. The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival is dedicated to advancing social justice, with $1 of all ticket sales going to charities such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Equal Justice Initiative.
The Machine Performs Pink Floyd with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra – August 3
The Machine are a New-York based quartet who have captivated audiences since 1988 with their faithful renditions of Pink Floyd classics. The quartet will play songs spanning Pink Floyd’s 16 albums, accompanied by a state of the art laser-light show and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Backroads Blues Festival – August 10
The second annual Backroads Blues Festival will stop at Artpark as part of its cross-country tour this summer. The festival is spearheaded by 5x Grammy nominated blues-rock virtuoso Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Shepherd will be joined by blues legends Bobby Rush, Duane Betts and Jimmie Vaughan. The festival will also feature Cirque Kikasse, a Quebecois acrobatic circus show on an operational food truck, offering beer, and fast food to concert-goers.
Gin Blossoms & Toad the Wet Sprocket – August 11
Gin Blossoms have topped the charts with their characteristic brand of jangly alternative rock since 1987. They are known hits like “Hey Jealousy” off of their 1996 platinum selling album Congratulations I’m Sorry. California alt-rockers Toad the Wet Sprocket will join Gin Blossoms on stage. Toad the Wet Sprocket are on tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of their platinum selling Dulcinea album. Audiences will recognize them from billboard-charting hits “All I Want” and “Walk on the Ocean.”
Stray Cats – August 13
Long Island rockabilly legends, Stray Cats, have captivated audiences for over 40 years. Their loose, jazzy and energetic guitar playing and crooning vocals from singer-guitarist Brian Setzer propelled them to stardom. Their mega-hits “Stray Cat Strut” and “Rock This Town” helped introduce their signature blend of glam and punk-influenced rockabilly to new generations.
Blues Traveler & Big Head Todd and the Monsters – August 16
New Jersey jam band legends Blues Traveler have graced audiences with their blend of bluesy alternative since 1987. Hits like “Run-Around,” off of the 6x platinum Four launched Blues Traveler to fame. Blues Traveler have released four gold selling albumsselling over 10 million combined units worldwide. They will be joined by platinum-selling Colorado Rock band Big Head Todd & the Monsters, who will play their signature hybrid of rock, blues, and country.
Bush – August 17
Bush’s signature style of grunge-influenced alternative rock has captivated audiences for three decades. Their timeless hits “Glycerine” and “Comedown” off of their 6x platinum debut Sixteen Sour have made them one of the most successful bands of the 1990s. Bush will be joined by singer-guitarist Jerry Cantrell of the legendary grunge band Alice in Chains.
Buffalo Jazz Composers Workshop – August 18
The Buffalo Jazz Composers Workshop are an ensemble of Buffalo-based composers and instrumentalists. Joined by a shared love of collaborative performance and writing, the group has crafted a unique improvisational take on contemporary jazz. The group also collaborates with visual and theatre artists to create enthralling live performances.
Tedeschi Trucks Band – August 20
Tedeschi Trucks Band are a Grammy-winning 12 piece band hailed as one of the greatest live acts touring today. NPR hailed the Husband and wife duo Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi as “two of the best roots rock musicians of their generation.” The band’s seamless blending of American music genres, like blues rock, soul and jazz have brought them renown. With a massive catalog of songs, no two Tedeschi Trucks Band shows are bound to be the same.
O.A.R. – August 27
O.A.R. – Short for “Of a Revolution” – are a platinum-selling alternative band from Rockville, MD. They are known for their mix of indie and roots rock. The band has sold out venues as large as Madison Square Garden and Red Rocks, all while retaining an unseen amount of freedom in the music industry, and a dedication to philanthropy. They will be headlining a US tour this summer in the wake of their 2022 album The Arcade.
Cole Swindell – August 29
Cole Swindell is an up and coming country singer-songwriter, who previously wrote hit singles for the likes of Thomas Rhett and Luke Bryan. He has released four albums, with 8 singles reaching number one on the country charts. 2023 was a big year for Swindell, with him winning 3 Academy of Country Music awards, and releasing a 3x platinum cover of Joe Dee Messina’s “Heads Carolina, Tails California.”
Cage the Elephant – September 7
Kentucky indie darlings, Cage the Elephant, will grace Artpark on a cross-country tour in the wake of their new album Neon Pill. The band blends an eclectic mix of classic rock, 90s alternative, blues and funk. They are mainstays of alternative radio, with audiences sure to recognize charting hits like “Come a Little Closer” and “Cigarette Daydream.”
The Cobblestoned Vibes festival has announced its artist lineup for its 2024 edition. Buffalo Iron Works will host this year’s event in the historic Cobblestone District of downtown Buffalo on Saturday, August 3. Spanning two stages, the event will feature performances by six artists and DJs.
Cobblestoned Vibes will feature both local Buffalo favorites and national touring groups. Bands like The Hip Abduction and Annapolis, MD’s Bumpin Uglies will play their signature indie-reggae that is sure to keep audiences dancing. California-based The Free Label will also share their take on lush, psychedelic indie pop. For classic rock fans, Dirty Work will perform a soulful tribute to the hits of jazz-rock legends Steely Dan.
The festival will also highlight local groups from Buffalo and Rochester. NYS Music voted Buffalo-based Organ Fairchild as New York’s best emerging band in 2021. They are sure to keep festival-goers grooving with their signature jazz and funk influenced extended jams. Up-and-coming Rochester band The Sideways will also share their lush brand of pop-soul. Backed by singer John Stehle’s soulful vocals and a horn section, their performance is sure to put audiences in a good mood. In addition to these groups, a host of local DJs will perform.
In addition to musical performances, the festival will showcase Buffalo’s character through collaborations with local businesses and restaurants. The event will feature artisan vendors, food trucks, and craft beer from local breweries. Cobblestone Vibes has additionally partnered with Bison Botanics CBD products for an ethical and high-quality “cannabis journey” to elevate festival-goers’ experience.
The event will take place within Buffalo’s historic Cobblestone District. This area of Downtown Buffalo is a snapshot into Buffalo’s history as an industrial hub. The district’s proximity to the Erie Canal made it a hub for metalworking and maritime supplies for the Great Lakes region. Due to this history and scenic brick cobblestone architecture, the National Parks Service placed the district on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. The district is home to Buffalo Iron Works, a brewery, restaurant and live music venue who sponsors Cobblestone Vibes.
Tickets are currently on sale with general admission being $30. There is also the option for a VIP “Get lifted” package for $95. This package contains a free drink, exclusive lineup poster, VIP credentials and a goodie bag from Bison Botanics CBD Products. Day-of festival prices rise to $40 for general admission and $110 for the VIP package so make sure to get tickets in advance.
Tickets can be purchased here. For more information and event updates, visit the Cobblestoned Vibes Facebook and Instagram.
The New York State Blues Festival has announced the artist lineup for 2024. The festival is sure to rock Syracuse with three full days of performances headlined by blues legends. This yearâs festival will take place from June 13-15 at the New York State Fairgroundsâ Chevy Court.
The New York State Blues Festival has been one of the largest free blues festivals in New York since its inception over 30 years ago. The festival is an all-ages event showcasing artists from around the country, focused on, but not limited to the blues. Blues Fest is designed to promote blues music, and educate the public on the blues’ influence on different genres of music, all while creating a welcoming gathering space for music fans. In the words of the festival director Eric McElveen, “we’re really trying to create a big tent for people to gather under and see what they have in common.”
The event begins Friday, June 14 at 4:00PM when the Chevy Court Main Stage gates open. This year’s lineup features artists from all over the blues spectrum, incorporating rock and soul. Heading night one of the festival are Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials. The group has toured the world for almost 30 years, propelled by Lil’ Ed Williams’s signature slide guitar and soulful vocals. Night two will feature Los Angeles blues-rockers The Record Company and guitarist Matthias Lattin.
The last night features big names Little Feat, and Harlem’s very own Shemekia Copeland. Grammy-nominated Copeland will grace the festival with her passionate soaring vocals, and lyricism tackling hatred and racism in what is sure to be a powerful performance.
In addition to live performances, the festival will host a wide range of food and beverage vendors. The festival is a free all-ages event with shaded areas to bring lawn chairs and dancing room. ProAct Blues Club VIP passes are currently on sale with early bird pricing starting from $125. These passes provide guests with catered dinner, beer, wine, drinks and snacks, as well as preferred seating.
Non-profit organization Live at the Bandstand is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated free music event, All Headliners Festival. The festival takes place on June 8 from 3 to 9pm in Sackets Harbor, New York.
All Headliners Festival takes place at the picturesque Sentinel Bandstand in Sackets Harbor. This celebration promises an unforgettable afternoon and evening of live performances, delicious food, and camaraderie, showcasing the rich diversity of talent and culture in the region. The event features an eclectic lineup of four exceptional bands, representing a wide spectrum of musical genres. Bands include jazz troupe Pando Collective, blues artist Tas Cru, Americana group The National Reserve, and jazz/classical Stephane Wrembel Quartet.
In addition to the stellar musical lineup, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a delectable array of culinary delights, courtesy of local food vendor Elm Street Taco truck. The renowned 1812 Brewing Company truck serves up refreshing and award-winning craft brews right in the heart of Sackets Harbor/Watertown.
Tas Cru
All Headliners Festival Acts
Pando Collective 3pm: Kicking off the festivities with their soulful jazz melodies, Pando Collective brings a unique blend of talent and camaraderie. They draw inspiration from their roots in the 10th Mountain Division Band.
The National Reserve 4:15pm: Back by popular demand, The National Reserve returns to Live at the Bandstand. They are ready to enthrall audiences once again with their soulful Americana, Rock’n’Roll sound and dynamic stage presence.
Tas Cru 6pm: Tas Cru and his band are sure to captivate audiences with their electrifying blues. Their tunes and infectious energy promise a performance that will have everyone on their feet. He hails from the local scene.
Stephane Wrembel Quartet 7:30pm: Rounding out the evening with a touch of international flair, the Stephane Wrembel Quartet will transport listeners to the streets of Paris with their enchanting gypsy jazz melodies, led by the virtuoso French guitarist himself.
“We are thrilled to bring this vibrant celebration of music and community to Sackets Harbor. Our mission has always been to showcase the incredible talent and diversity of our local and downstate music scene while fostering a sense of connection and belonging within our community. We invite everyone to join us for a day of unforgettable performances, delicious food, and shared experiences on the water.”
Ingrid Cleveland Gori
The festival is free of charge for all. For more information on the All Headliners Festival in Sackets Harbor on June 8, click here.
The last round of artists has been added to tomorrow night’s tribute to the music of Crosby, Stills & Nash at Carnegie Hall. Steve Earle, Guster, A.C. Newman (of the New Pornographers), and Sarah Jarosz are set to join a star-studded lineup that will pay tribute to the iconic rock band. The show is also set to raise proceeds to support music education for kids.
It promises to be another successful Music Of tribute concert, produced by Michael Dorf Presents. This last round of artists will combine with Todd Rundgren, Grace Potter, Taylor Meier of Caamp, Yola, Iron & Wine, Rickie Lee Jones, Joseph, Shawn Colvin, Real Estate, Aoife O’Donovan, Neal Francis, and Sammy Rae of Sammy Rae & The Friends to bring their interpretations of both Crosby, Stills & Nash and their respective solo careers to Carnegie Hall.
The evening will also feature a special performance by Music Will (formerly Little Kids Rock), a beneficiary of the Music Of Series, further highlighting the series’ commitment to support music education initiatives for children across communities.
To be a part of this incredible evening at Carnegie Hall, celebrating the music that David, Stephen, and I created together, is a profound honor. I look forward to seeing a diverse and talented group of artists perform our songs. Music has always been about connection, about sharing stories and emotions that resonate with each other. This event allows us to relive those connections and support a cause close to our hearts—music education.
~ Graham Nash
With Nash scheduled to be in attendance, the concert’s performances will be anchored by a house band of remarkable talent, led by Todd Caldwell and featuring Adam Minkoff, Michelle Willis, Thad DeBrock, Chris Bruce, and Josh Dion. Founder of the Music Of series, Michael Dorf notes, “This extraordinary lineup coming together to celebrate the enduring music of Crosby, Stills & Nash at Carnegie Hall is truly remarkable. It’s not just about paying homage to these icons; it’s about investing in the future of music and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore the transformative power of music.”
Tickets and VIP Packages are currently available at musicof.org
Caroga Arts Collective announced they are receiving a grant award totaling $850,000 from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to support the construction of a year-round artists’ lodge at Myhill as part of the Sherman’s Legacy Campaign.
Myhill Lodge Performance Hall rendering by Steven Smith.
This grant is part of a capital project funding announcement by NYSCA, totalling over $32 million for 102 capital projects across New York State. At Myhill, Caroga Arts Collective will construct a lodge, including eight bedrooms, four baths, a large wing, and a basement. The plan will provide needed living space, practice space, dining, kitchen, bedrooms, administrative workspace, rehearsal/performance space, and more.
The mission of Caroga Arts Collective is to reimagine the Adirondack experience through the power of the arts. Founded in 2012, Caroga Arts presents over 50 performances and community events each year, welcoming more than 150 artists to the Southern Adirondacks. They focus on revitalizing the region through community outreach, partnerships with local businesses and non-profit organizations, and arts education programming for youth and adults.
“The over 100 projects we’re supporting through this funding will showcase arts and cultural organizations across the state and spur economic development for decades to come,” Governor Hochul said. “From historic sites to new multi-use arts centers, these diverse projects will expand the accessibility and the sustainability of arts and culture organizations while growing local economies, driving tourism and creating jobs all across New York State.”
Recently, the 2024 Caroga Lake Music Festival lineup was announced, featuring over 150 world-class artists and 40 performances. Among the artists appearing this summer is future hall-of-fame guitarist, Cory Wong on July 30. This event will be unique and rare with Wong performing “unplugged” tunes with an intimate string section, and interspersed conversation about his life/music making between pieces. Moreover, a special raffle drawing for a Limited Edition Fender guitar, The Cory Wong Stratocaster (case included), signed by Cory Wong himself will be held.
We are incredibly grateful to the New York State Council on the Arts for their support of constructing a year round multi-use lodge at Myhill as part of our Sherman’s Legacy Campaign. This grant will help us create the supporting infrastructure for year round engagement and programs in Caroga Lake and surrounding regions thus helping further our mission of reimagining the Adirondack experience through the power of the arts.
Kyle Barrett Price, Founder, Executive and Artistic Director of the Caroga Arts Collective.
The Sherman’s Legacy Campaign will help Caroga Arts revitalize Sherman’s Park and the Myhill Campus into an Adirondack vacation destination where music, arts, community, and culture flourish. Constructing an artists’ residential lodge is part of the project’s first phase, which also includes the creation of a state-of-the-art amphitheater.
NYSCA Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the Legislature for their support. These projects are essential to the prosperity and well-being of our creative industry and our communities, especially as we continue to navigate the recovery of our creative sector. This support will help stimulate local economies, catalyze investment in our communities, and help to ensure the vibrancy of our cultural organizations for now and for the future. Congratulations to Caroga Arts Collective, NYSCA is a proud supporter of your contributions to New York’s arts and culture.”
For more information about Caroga Arts, visit here.
