NYS Music 2024

Category: Central NY

  • In Focus: Monkeys on Ecstasy (moe.) Take Over Middle Ages in Syracuse

    moe. fans flocked to the Middle Ages Concert Hall in Syracuse on Friday, November 15 for the first of two consecutive sold-out performances by Monkeys On Ecstasy.   

    Perhaps one of the more poorly kept secrets in the music industry, Monkeys on Ecstasy serves as the pseudonym for jam-rockers moe.  The alternatively billed shows allow the band to perform more intimate clubs and concert halls, harkening back to their early years.  The lucky recipient this time around was the Middle Ages Concert Hall.  The band, now entering their 35th year, recently announced their 14th studio album, Circle of Giants, would be released on January 31, 2025 and would be backed by an extensive U.S. tour.  

    On Friday, fans filled the area in front of the stage well before the band’s scheduled 8pm start time.  As show-time approached, a nearly impassible wall of fans stretched beyond the listening room and out into an adjacent bar area.  The excitement and energy of the audience was palpable, as their legion of fans traded stories of their previous moe. concerts.

    Shortly after 8pm the band took to the stage and opened with their rendition of Pink Floyd’s “Interstellar Overdrive”.  The slow building instrumental would culminate in a full-blown rocker, show casing the traits which make moe. great, with upper tier orchestration as each band member took their turn at adding layers of improvisation.  The track would weave in the moe. original “Zed Nought Z” before returning to the outro of “Interstellar Overdrive”.  In all the sequence would last over 20 minutes.  

    The band would play two sets on Friday, with each set pushing beyond 90 minutes.  Set two featured the improv-heavy rocker “Timmy Tucker” garnering full-on audience participation on the chorus.  As the night approached midnight, the evening would come to a close. Fans poured out into the Syracuse streets, celebrating what they had just witnessed and already eagerly anticipating what could be in store for night two.

    Monkeys On Ecstacy – Middle Ages Concert Hall, Syracuse – Friday, November 15

    Set 1: Interstellar Overdrive > Zed Nought Z > Interstellar Overdrive, Brent Black, In Stride, Bat Country, She, Space Truckin’
    Set 2: Shoot First > Timmy Tucker, Bring You Down > Lazarus > Skitchin’ Buffalo > Skitchin’ Buffalo Reprise > Recreational Chemistry
    Encore: Light up or Leave Me Alone

  • Dark Star Orchestra Fall 2024 Tour Features 7 NY Dates

    Grateful Dead cover band Dark Star Orchestra (DSO) has announced their Fall 2024 tour which sees 11 dates in the northeast including 7 dates in NY.

    Dark Star Orchestra Fall Tour

    Performing to critical acclaim for over 25 years and over 3100 shows, Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. Their shows are built off the Dead’s extensive catalog and the talent of these seven fine musicians.

    On any given night, the band will perform a show based on a set list from the Grateful Dead’s 30 years of extensive touring or use their catalog to program a unique set list for the show. This allows fans both young and old to share in the experience. By recreating set lists from the past, and by developing their own sets of Dead songs, DSO offers a continually evolving artistic outlet within this musical canon.

    Honoring both the band and the fans, Dark Star Orchestra’s members seek out the unique style and sound of each era while simultaneously offering their own informed improvisations. DSO offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead; they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. It’s about a sense of familiarity. It’s about a feeling that grabs listeners and takes over. It’s about that contagious energy…in short, it’s about the complete experience and consistent quality show that the fan receives when attending a DSO show.

    Dark Star Orchestra Fall Tour

    Dark Star Orchestra Fall 2024 Tour Dates:

    Nov 15, 2024 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

    Nov 16, 2024 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

    Nov 17, 2024 – MJN Convention Center – Poughkeepsie, NY

    Nov 20, 2024 – Rome Capitol Theatre – Rome, NY

    Nov 21, 2024 – Broome County Forum Theatre – Binghamton, NY

    Nov 22, 2024 – House of Blues Boston – Boston, MA

    Nov 23, 2024 – College Street Music Hall – New Haven, CT

    Nov 26, 2024 – Stage AE – Pittsburgh, PA

    Nov 27, 2024 – Penn’s Peak – Jim Thorpe, PA

    Nov 29, 2024 – The Paramount – Huntington, NY

    Nov 30, 2024 – The Paramount – Huntington, NY

    For more information on Dark Star Orchestra’s upcoming Fall 2024 tour and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • In Focus: Jessie Murph at the Landmark Theatre

    Jessie Murph brought an electrifying energy during her tour stop at the historic Landmark Theatre in Syracuse. With fans wrapped around the block, they were treated to an unforgettable night filled with emotions and powerhouse vocal performance that left them wanting more.

    The night opened with Big Yavo, an emerging artist from Alabama who delivered a set with southern charisma and sounds. His blend of hip-hop and rap had the crowd dancing on their feet, primed for what was to come, setting the perfect tone for Jessie’s entrance.

    The historic Landmark Theatre, with its architecture and old-world charm, was the perfect venue for Jessie’s soulful vibe. The 20 year-old Alabama native began her music career by sharing heartfelt covers and original songs on social media platforms, where her voice quickly gained widespread attention.

    Now, she’s made her place as a force in contemporary pop/country and R&B, captivating audiences with her unapologetically honest storytelling. Performing hits like “High Road,” “Sip,” “Pray” and “Heartbroken” had the crowd singing every word along making the Landmark echo with energy.

    Her breakout hit “High Road,” a collaboration with Koe Wetzel, dove into themes of resilience and facing personal battles. This track blends her emotive vocals with Wetzel’s gritty, country-rock influence, creating a unique crossover fans have welcomed with open arms.

    Another highlight of her career is “Heartbroken,” her collaborative hit with Diplo and Polo G, which blends electronic beats with her signature raw lyrics. This song’s success further cements her as a versatile artist capable of thriving across different musical landscapes.

    For more on Jessie Murph, visit her website.

    2024 In the Sticks Tour Dates:

    11/16 The NorVa – Norfolk, VA

    11/18 The Hall Spartenburg – Spartenburg, SC

    11/19 Georgia Theatre – Athens, GA

    11/21 Georgia Theatre – Athens, GA

    11/22 The Forum River Center – Rome, GA

    11/23 Von Braun Center – Huntsville, AL

  • Endicott Performing Arts Center Presents Holiday Magic with EPAC Christmas Show

    Endicott Performing Arts Center (EPAC) located in Endicott, NY, has announced the magical EPAC Christmas Show, beginning on Friday, December 6.

    This shows offers the opportunity to experience the magic of the holiday season like never before at the Endicott Performing Arts Center. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a handpicked selection of captivating Christmas Shows that are sure to create lasting memories for audiences of all ages. Prepare to be transported to a world of wonder and joy with the EPAC Christmas Show December 6 & 7 with 7pm showtimes.

    This enchanting production is a heartwarming journey through the holiday season, featuring a dazzling array of music, dance, and captivating performances that perfectly encapsulate the magic of Christmas.

    Delve into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker December 12 – 15, a timeless holiday classic that continues to captivate audiences year after year. Follow Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Sweets as talented dancers from EPAC (1st Act) and The FUSE Dance Center of Binghamton (2nd Act) bring this beloved ballet to life with grace, skill, and artistry. This show begins at 7pm on Friday, Saturday and 3pm on Sunday.

    Experience a holiday extravaganza like no other with the EPAC Holiday Burlesque Show, Naughty & Nice December 21. This unique and sassy twist on traditional holiday entertainment combines comedy, dance, and glamour to create a festive experience that is both entertaining and unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind celebration. This show is one night only and begins at 8pm Saturday.

    For more information on the upcoming EPAC Christmas Show Series and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Funk ‘n Waffles Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Four Nights Of Music

    Beloved Syracuse waffle shop and live entertainment venue Funk ‘n Waffles has announced a four-night concert lineup to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

    Independent Music Venues

    Born from two college students’ love for waffles and live music seventeen years ago, Funk ‘n Waffles offers a truly one of a kind live entertainment experience. Having properly opened their doors as a dual food-and-entertainment space a decade ago now, founder Adam Gold has built quite the reputation for Funk ‘n Waffles as a premiere downtown Syracuse destination. 

    With an expansive menu of sweet and savory bites and beverages, the venue has been featured countless times on Food Network as one of Guy Fieri’s time-honored favorites. Not to mention the funk half of the venue, with the space  consistently stacked on weekends and occasionally even weekdays with shows from folks across all varieties of the sound spectrum. 

    Drawing in bands and fans from near and afar, Funk ‘n Waffles’ list of artists that have graced their stage goes on into the thousands- and it’s no wonder why. Between an undeniably delicious menu and a lively community of performers and fans alike, Funk ‘n Waffles is going into its 10th year with a bang.

    Over the course of four nights – Thursday, December 5 through Sunday, December 8 – Funk ‘n Waffles will be host to several unforgettable nights of live music and entertainment from the likes of Skunk City (whose show will act as the kick-off and be completely free of charge!) on Thursday, Pearly Baker’s Best on Friday, Rootshack with special guest RUHA on Saturday, and Sophistafunk with special guests Nik Greeley & The Operators and The Gunpoets on Sunday.

    Tickets for this unforgettable celebration are on sale now, priced at just $15 for presale or $25 at the door. In addition, Funk ‘n Waffles is offering a special weekend price of $30 that offers full access to all three ticketed shows.

    For more information on the venue, further details on their anniversary bash, and ticket purchasing, check out their official website here.

  • The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Presents ‘Thresholds’ as Part of M&T Bank Symphonic Series

    The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has announced a new concert entitled “Thresholds,” the second event of the M&T Bank Symphonic Series. This event takes place on November 16 at Broome County Forum Theatre.

    Composer Hilary Purrington

    The program opens with young composer Hilary Purrington’s 2020 piece “Threshold,” an atmospheric soundscape of driving rhythms that explores the boundaries between motion and stillness. Next is Felix Mendelssohn’s evocative Hebrides Overture, one of the masterworks of 19th-century Romantic program music. Finally, the Philharmonic will conclude with the first performance of a symphony by Anton Bruckner in our region in 60 years, the Sixth Symphony in A Major, a monumental work long celebrated for the complexity of its harmonic language and the profundity of its emotional impact. The Philharmonic’s performance of Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth, will be an unforgettable experience for seasoned classical music lovers and new audiences alike.

    The public is invited to a Pre-Concert Chat at 6:30pm, “Mist and Myth in 19th-Century Music,” led by the Philharmonic’s Director of Education and Community Engagement Dr. Julia Grella O’Connell, about the visual and historical imagination in Mendelssohn and Bruckner. The main event begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $28 to $69. Kids 17 and under attend free, thanks to Symphonic Series Sponsor M&T Bank. Today, the Binghamton Philharmonic serves up to 10,000 people annually through innovative, engaging, and affordable programming, meeting its mission of “Building Community Through the Power of Live Music.” This upcoming “Thresholds” program encapsulates the organization’s mission statement beautifully.

    For more information on the Binghamton Philharmonic’s upcoming “Thresholds” concert and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Cooperstown Concerts Present Indie Rock Band Annie in the Water for a Night of Feel-good Music and Dancing 

    Cooperstown Concerts has announced that indie rockers ‘Annie in the Water’ are performing their electrifying sound at the Otesaga Hotel on November 15.

    Annie in the Water Cooperstown

    Blending elements of Americana with indie rock and infusing their sets with acoustic guitars, synthesizers and a thunderous rhythm section, Annie in the Water transcends genres, offering fans an exhilarating musical journey. With influences spanning rock, soul, funk, reggae and hip-hop, the band’s live shows are a unique experience, with each performance a new adventure that evolves in response to the crowd’s energy. Their infectious grooves and feel-good rhythms are sure to get everyone on their feet, dancing the night away.

    The audience at the November 15 show will be joining the band in celebrating the release of their latest album, Things to Do, which explores their deep connection to Upstate New York, the place the band calls home. Described as a “love letter” to the region, the album has garnered praise for its rich, multi-genre sound. Prior to this album, their latest full-length album was 2022 with Sun at Dawn. Between these two albums, the band released several singles in 2023 – “Sailing,” “Honeybee,” and “Frozen Lake.” Many of their singles, EPs and albums have amassed thousands of streams in only a short timeframe.

    Because every show is different, experiencing the music of Annie in the Water live can be compared to paddling with a river. At times you may find yourself in the calm of the flow while at other times you may be deep in the rapids while the music churns and grows in energy. With the ebbs and flows you’re reminded of the constant that you are a part of something greater than yourself, working together with the forces around you and caught in the midst of a beautiful moment in time.

    Annie in the Water Cooperstown

    With decades of history and a reputation for excellence, Cooperstown Concerts has been a cornerstone of the local music scene, bringing together a community of music enthusiasts and hosting unforgettable performances. The 2024-2025 season continues this tradition of excellence, featuring a diverse lineup that invites audiences to explore new sounds, discover emerging artists, and enjoy timeless favorites.

    Founded 55 years ago, Cooperstown Concerts has served as a home for live music – dedicated to bringing an eclectic mix of world-class live music to our community. With a commitment to diversity in programming and a deep connection to its audience, Cooperstown Concerts offers an opportunity for people to come together, experience and engage with high-quality music from around the globe and enjoy a great performance close to home.

    Alice in the Water live at Funk n Waffles

    For more information on Annie in the Water’s upcoming show in Cooperstown on November 15, their latest album Things to Do, and to purchase tickets or the album, click here.

  • Guitars Along the Mohawk Returns to the Capitol Theater in Rome

    Nearly a dozen Central New York songwriters gathered at the Capitol Theater in Rome on Sunday, November 10 to participate in Guitars Along the Mohawk. The musical showcase was a reboot of the popular Mohawk Vally television show which aired in the late 1980s. In keeping with tradition, the event was filmed for a future television release.

    Guitars Along the Mohawk

    The event served as a benefit for the Capitol Theater. The picturesque theater, which opened in 1928, has been the beneficiary of a focused renovation project over the last several years, and remains a staple in the performing arts scene for the region.

    Guitars Along the Mohawk

    Among the musicians performing on Sunday included Gridley Paige, Sydney Irving, Cassandra Harris-Lockwood with Mark Kelsey, Mark Macri with Ed Gotham, Justin Smithson, Katie Keating, Rocky Feola, Bill Carman with Scott Fleming, and Rose n’ Thorne.  Ed Gorham and and Danny Holmes (Rose n Thorne) performed at the original event in 1987.  Each act was given fifteen minutes to showcase their talents.  

    The Guitars Along the Mohawk television special will air in early 2025.  Stay tuned for additional details.  

    Guitars Along the Mohawk
    Guitars Along the Mohawk

  • Jazz at The Other Side in Utica Presents Kris Jensen Nov. 16

    Saxophonist, multi-wind artist, composer, and arranger Kris Jensen will perform a one-time intimate show at The Other Side in Utica on Nov. 16. Door opens at 7:00 p.m.

    Kris Jensen

    Kris Jensen, a versatile musician, has performed throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Bangkok, Thailand, and Switzerland. Jensen has performed alongside many prominent artists in both jazz and rock, most notably, the legendary Allman Brothers Band and many of the individual members’ bands including Gregg Allman and Friends, Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Dickey Betts and Great Southern. He has also played with trumpet legend Maynard Ferguson, and many others.

    In 1996, Jensen was a semi-finalist in the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition. He has studied Jazz and African-American music at the University of Hartford, where he would later teach. Jensen has recently appeared with jazz legends such as trombonist Curtis Fuller, alto saxophonist Phil Woods, and pianist Larry Willis. He has appeared on New Jersey Public Television with Maynard Ferguson, on “Late Night with David Letterman” with Gregg Allman & Friends, and on stage with The Allman Brothers Band, and The Dave Matthews Band.

    The Other Side is a small community space dedicated to offering a platform for expression to artists and activists from around the region and beyond. Since 2007, The Other Side has been the go-to destination for jazz musicians and audiences alike.

    Orrin Evans adds, “I have been listening to our next jazz guest, saxophonist, flautist & composer Kris Jensen and I’m happy to report that our music director, Dr Mike Dubaniewicz has done it again. Kris Jensen is a ‘beast’ whether blowing w/ the Allmans or with a jazz contingent. The backing band w/ Mike D. on sax, Dan Pugh on organ and Mike Cortese, drums is going to rock the joint.”

    Learn more about The Other Side in Utica and purchase tickets here.

  • “Rise of the Roach” National Tour to Make Two Stops in NY

    Papa Roach and Rise Against Announce the Rise of the Roach North American Tour. They will hit Syracuse on Sep. 11 and Wantagh on Sep. 13, 2025.

    Rise of the Roach papa roach tour

    Papa Roach will join forces with Rise Against and special guest Underoath to embark on the first North American legs of the Rise of the Roach Tour in the spring and fall of 2025, marking a significant milestone as the two legendary rock bands unite for their first-ever outing together. 

    After the original, sold-out, UK and Europe legs of the tour, Rise of the Roach now continues throughout North America in 2025. The tour will hit over 30 major cities through the U.S. across two legs, including a stop at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, on Saturday, Sep. 13, and Empower FCU Amphitheater in Syracuse on Wednesday, Sep. 11.

    Papa Roach will celebrate 25 years of their debut album Infest on tour by playing iconic tracks and fan-favorite deep cuts from their entire catalog. Rise Against is also celebrating 25 years since their formation and will be performing fan favorites and hits from its whole catalog. This tour will see the biggest production from Papa Roach to date. Both Papa Roach and Rise Against will perform some of the biggest hits in the Alternative Hard Rock genre on one stage every night.

    General on-sale beginning on Thursday, November 14 at 10 am. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

    Papa Roach & Rise Against: “Rise of the Roach” Tour Dates: 

    Thu Mar 20 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center  

    Sat Mar 22 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center  

    Sun Mar 23 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center  

    Tue Mar 25 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre  

    Wed Mar 26 – San Diego, CA – Gallagher Square at Petco Park  

    Fri Mar 28 – Los Angeles, CA – The Kia Forum  

    Sat Mar 29 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center  

    Mon Mar 31 – Portland, OR – Veterans Memorial Coliseum  

    Tue Apr 01 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena  

    Thu Apr 03 – Salt Lake City, UT – Maverik Center  

    Sat Apr 05 – Las Vegas, NV – MGM Grand Garden Arena  

    Mon Apr 07 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena  

    Wed Apr 09 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center  

    Thu Apr 10 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center  

    Sat Apr 12 – Green Bay, WI – Resch Center  

    Sun Apr 13 – Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center  

    Thu Sep 10 – Bridgeport, CT – Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater

    Wed Sep 11 – Syracuse, NY – Empower FCU Amphitheater

    Sat Sep 13 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell at Jones Beach Theater

    Sun Sep 14 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center  

    Tue Sep 16 – Washington, DC – The Anthem  

    Wed Sep 17 – Virginia Beach, VA – The Dome  

    Fri Sep 19 – Allentown, PA – PPL Center 

    Sat Sep 20 – Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater  

    Tue Sep 23 – Cincinnati, OH – PNC Pavilion  

    Wed Sep 24 – Maryland Heights, MO – Saint Louis Music Park  

    Fri Sep 26 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park  

    Sat Sep 27 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheater*  

    Sun Sep 28 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre  

    Tue Sep 30 – Rogers, AR – Walmart Amp  

    Wed Oct 01 – Franklin, TN – FirstBank Amphitheater  

    Thu Oct 03 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre  

    Sat Oct 04 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre  

    Sun Oct 05 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

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