This past Saturday, May 11, English singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone did not disappoint as she graciously took the stage at the Brooklyn Steel for one of two NY shows.
She is scheduled to tour until the end of May as part of “The Holly Humberstone (This Feels Like the Truman) Show” North American leg. Her tour, which makes lyrical reference to her song, “Ghost Me,” included many tracks off of her latest album, Paint My Bedroom Black.
Holly Humberstone, photographed by Sarah Hyun
The pop-rock artist gained popularity after releasing her debut EP, Falling Asleep at the Wheel. Fans resonated deeply with her heartfelt lyrics, as she sang candidly about the difficulties of navigating familial and romantic relationships, addiction, breakups, and growing up. “Falling Asleep at the Wheel,” one of her most popular songs, includes lyrics like “Oh, you never smoked this much before we / Light up, light up another cigarette / I can tell you’re drinking only to forget / Don’t know how I got you in such a mess.” Holly never fails to cut right to the heart with her words.
Holly Humberstone, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Currently, Humberstone has eighteen tour dates left. She previously played at Webster Hall in 2022, and also toured during Girl in Red’s “Make It Go Quiet” tour and Olivia Rodrigo’s “Sour” tour.
Holly Humberstone, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Holly started the night off strong with her song, “Paint My Bedroom Back,” of which her latest album is named after. Each band member took the stage one at a time, triggering a round of screams from fans who had been camping out hours ahead to make it to the front of the barricade. The energy swelled in the room as Holly’s guitarist, bassist, and drummer built up the opening track seamlessly.
Holly Humberstone, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Upon Holly’s entrance, the crowd made a deafening sound, and she scaled the stage freely, singing her heart out while swishing her hair to the beat. During “Elvis Impersonators,” she recounted her experience in Tokyo, and how she was surrounded by people “dressing up like Michael Jackson.” In the song, she sang lyrics like, “And the Elvis impersonators / Crowding at the elevators / Reminds you of a private joke we had.” The crowd stayed silent during this song, soaking in Humberstone’s beautifully raspy vocals.
Holly Humberstone, photographed by Sarah Hyun
Holly ended the night with “Ghost Me,” before singing “Friendly Fire” and “Scarlett” during the encore. Fans, feeling bittersweet that the show was over, exited the venue with satisfied smiles on their faces.
Setlist: Paint My Bedroom Black, Into Your Room, The Walls Are Way Too Thin, Overkill, Kissing In Swimming Pools, Cocoon, Dive, Deep End, Can You Afford To Lose Me?, Antichrist, Down Swinging, Lauren, Falling Asleep at the Wheel, Elvis Impersonators, Flatlining, Girl, Sleep Tight, Ghost Me
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.
On a crisp April 24 evening at Bowery Ballroom, music enthusiasts gathered to witness Australian singer-songwriter Blake Rose grace the stage on his headline tour for his latest album, Suddenly Okay.
Nashville’s own Max McNown’s stripped-down set, featuring just two guitars and a harmonica, captivated the audience. While McNown’s genre is notably more country than Rose’s sound, this did not stop fans from swaying to the beat – his set quite literally set the perfect tone for the night.
Blake Rose opened his electrifying set with the energetic “Rollerblades”. An electric guitar hung around his neck as Rose went back and forth from the strings to the keys and back to the microphone. Rose’s infectious energy filled the venue, igniting an excitement among fans. The setlist was a blend of old and new, showcasing Rose’s evolution as an artist. “Dizzy”, a track familiar to many from its appearance on The Late Late Show, enraptured the audience and even involved them in clapping along to the kick drum. Transitioning seamlessly between songs, Rose treated fans to a selection of older, well-loved tracks from his 2021 project, A World Gone By, each one eliciting cheers of appreciation from the crowd.
Rose revisited older favorites as well, delighting original fans with a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It was during the latter part of the set that Rose truly connected with his audience, venturing into the heart of the crowd for an unplugged rendition of “Ordinary People”. The crowd parted as the musician adorned in just his acoustic stood on a platform to sing along with only his strings.
As the night at Bowery Ballroom reached its crescendo, Rose performed his up tempo tracks including “Suddenly Okay”, “Never Let Go” and of course the anthemic “Lost”, arguably his most beloved song. Blake Rose’s magnetic stage presence and dynamic energy was enjoyable and authentic. New York would be happy to have him again.
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.
The 2024 concert season at the sublime Opus 40 Sculpture Park in Saugerties opened May 9th with something that delighted ass-shakers and intellectuals alike– a high-energy performance by one of Colombia’s most renowned musical exports – Meridian Brothers.
photo by William A. Loeb
The five-piece is the brainchild of Bogota-based singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Elbis Álvarez. Meridian Brothers is a moniker Álvarez has used on many albums and collaborations, on most of which he plays all the instruments. Friday’s performance was the kick-off of the band’s latest tour, on which Álvarez is supported by a quartet of equally adept and captivating musicians.
The Meridian Brothers sound is an intriguing amalgam of styles and influences. The songs are anchored on danceable Latin rhythms – salsa, boogaloo and cumbia – accented with eerie, experimental keyboard sounds reminiscent of ‘50s sci-fi classics like Forbidden Planet and echoed guitaring that brings to mind Syd Barrett’s work on Pink Floyd’s debut, Piper at Gates of Dawn. In performance, Álvarez’s vocals are often treated with a harmonizer, digital delay and phasing as are some of the ever-present percussive accents. It brings to mind the short-lived era of early Roxy Music when Brian Eno slathered a boatload of sonic treatments on the live sound to ramp up the otherworldly vibe.
photo by William A. Loeb
But make no mistake. As heady and refined as this may sound, this is music for ass-shakers, first and foremost. And that was proved by the multitude that boogied down on the lawn at Opus 40 for all of The Meridian Brothers’ 90-minute plus set.
Álvarez and his cohorts – María Valencia (wind instruments, percussion and keyboards), Mauricio Ramírez (drums), Alejandro Forero (keyboards) and César Quevedo (bass) – ran through a 12-song set of their neo-tropicalista classics from their 10-album discography.
The band commenced with its 2020 single, “Cumbia de la Fuente.” Like many of the tunes, it’s anchored by a sub-harmonic bass riff and thump groove over which float cloud fronts of spacey keyboard effects and samples, triggered by Álvarez and Forero’s midi-keyboards. This track winds down with arpeggiated bells samples that sound like a drunken ice cream truck. Things moved more uptempo with the next number, “Bomba Atomica.” This is an almost traditional salsa groove belied by the slightly dissonant harmonizer vocals. Percussionist Valencia truly shined on this one, unleashing a heady dose of cowbell and delay-treated splash cymbals, something she would do all night with a bright smile delivered with each bash.
photo by William A. Loeb
Álvarez introduced the next number, “Salsa Caliente,” as a salsa boogaloo. This was Plan 9 from Outer Space meets Tito Puente, with some groovy, new wave-y keys and sax accents from Ms. Valencia. The band’s 2022 album, Meridian Brothers & El Grupo Renacimiento, was the source for several of the best tunes performed including “Metamorfosis,” “Hipnosis” and “La Policia.” The next song in the set, “La Policia, provided the space for an extended echo-y guitar solo from Álvarez. The band initially closed their set with the high-energy dance jam instrumental, “Guaracha U.F.O.,” from their 2012 album, “Desesperanza.” After a brief pause, they returned for an encore, their tropicalia take on the Dusty Springfield classic, “Son of a Preacherman.”
The Meridian Brothers’ wonderful show was the first concert of what promised to be a watermark one for Opus 40, which over the years has hosted many legendary performances, mostly notably the one by sax great Sonny Rollins chronicled in Robert Mugge’s documentary, Saxophone Colossus. Read our remembrance of it here.
Opus 40’s headlining events will include two nights with the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra led by 100-year-old Marshall Allen (July 5 and 6), London post-punk with Dry Cleaning (June 27), alternative R&B with Nick Hakim (May 29), reggae with Sundub & Upstate Reggae Posse (August 13), the Afro-Pop of Zimbabwe’s Mokoomba (August 2) and more. Opus 40 will also host Sunday afternoon shows highlighting homegrown Hudson Valley talent including Larry Locust, Biryani Boys, Blueberry, Mac $ Cheeze Balkan Trio and Spaghetti Eastern Music.
photo by William A. Loeb
“At Opus 40, I try to honor the musical legacy here with a curated selection of acts local and international, experimental and accessible, with a focus on spiritual jazz, ambient and singer-songwriters,” adds Mike Amari, Program Manager at Opus 40 and founder of local concert promoter, Chosen Family Presents. “Harvey Fite, who built Opus 40 by himself over 37 years, wanted his sculpture park to host events that uplifted the human spirit – just like his monumental earth art. So, this is why Opus 40 has committed so much effort and taken so much pride in bringing these incredible acts and many more community events to the site.”
“As for Meridian Brothers, I became obsessed with their brand of music via a compilation of ‘chicha’ music from Peru in the ‘60s/’70s called ‘Roots of ChiCha,’ continues Amari. “A friend who knew I liked this music turned me on to Meridian Brothers. They play some of the same ideas but chop them up and put them together in a Frankenstein-like, Krautrock-y way. It’s hypnotic, dissonant but somehow groovy and very danceable. For these reasons, they were the perfect act to launch our new season. It was the first night of their newest U.S. tour and they traveled for 24 hours to get here. So, we commend them on giving us such an energetic performance.”
Special props to the band’s sound engineer, Alejandro Araujo and the crew at Opus 40, for expertly balancing and EQing what could have easily descended into cacophony. This performance was more electric than the first I witnessed by the band at globalFEST 2023, an event co-programmed by another veteran Hudson Valley promoter, Isobel Soffer.
For a list at the Opus 40’s summer concert schedule, visit here.
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.
NYC-based punk-rock band The FMs have released their sophomore double LP, PINK + BLACK on May 10.
Duo Matte Namer and Frankie Rex formed the NYC-based punk band The FMs in 2016. United by their shared transgender experience, the duo spent six years performing at underground shows and recording three LPs. The future of the band was shaken in 2022, with Frankie Rex passing away from a fentanyl overdose. After a two-year hiatus, the band has reformed and released this new double LP as a posthumous memorial to Rex.
PINK + BLACK is a rock odyssey propelled by punchy synth hooks and raw punk energy. The album seamlessly shifts between upbeat dance-punk tracks and Brian Eno-influenced synth passages. With instrumentation that is dreamy yet forceful, the FMs discuss issues of gender roles, and transphobia.
The album starts off with a bang with opener “Hit Yourself.” The track has a rhythmic, almost hypnotic industrial beat. The pulsating rhythms and sharp synths are reminiscent of Nine Inch Nails or early LCD Soundsystem. This instrumentation propels lyrics that tell a story of a sado-masochistic romance, with a repeated refrain rallying against the patriarchy.
The standout of the album was the single “Transformation Dreams,” a dreamy and anthemic song. “Transformation Dreams” combines layered synths and ethereal effects-laden guitars to create an atmosphere reminiscent of 1980s post-punk and dream pop. Fans of The Cure or Cocteau Twins are sure to enjoy this track. Its lyrics touch on the feelings of body dysmorphia and hope for the future, using its catchy instrumentation to back up these heavy topics.
The album has great range, with tracks that you can both dance and disassociate to. It impressively weaves together a mix of industrial dance, goth and ambient that is sure to keep listeners intrigued, all while tackling the important themes of identity and politically-motivated hatred. In all, this album is a testament to the FMs musical prowess that any fans of indie and punk should listen to.
In the wake of this album, The FMs have organized Frankie Fest, a memorial to the late Frankie Rex. The event took place May 11 on Coney Island, and featured performances from a host of NYC-based queer performers. The festival included the first performance by the FMs since the passing of Rex. All proceeds went to the Chosen Family Law Center, providing low-income transgender New Yorkers with free legal services.
For more information on The FMs and their release PINK + BLACK, click here.
Emo-rock band Origami Angel took to the Town Ballroom stage on May 7. This set was the first of their stretch of opening for headliner Microwave, and their first return to Buffalo since April 2023.
Origami Angel took the stage following two 30-minute sets from Carpool Tunnel and Heart Attack Man. With the crowd already enlivened, Origami Angel took things to the next level. With Pat Doherty on drums and Ryland Heagy on guitar and vocals, their 45-minute set weaved through a few of their released and well-received albums, including Gen 3 (2019), Somewhere City (2019), GAMI GANG (2021), and The Brightest Days (2023).
They opened their set with the song “Fruit Wine”. The energy of the crowd illuminated as they sang along, despite the band only releasing the song the day prior. As their set went on, they played fan favorites including “Thank You, New Jersey”, “Ruby”, and “Self-Destruct”. With two band members, two instruments, and no other stage design or graphics, they kept the crowd engaged with their full sound, unique tempo changes and riffs.
Though the venue discouraged crowdsurfing and moshing, Origami Angel’s performance was too enthralling for the crowd to do anything but. The band stopped in Toronto on May 9, and have begun the mid-west stretch of this tour.
