The Governors Ball returns in 2024 for their 14th year, settling into its home at Flushing Meadows Corona Park for an exciting weekend filled with music and festivities.
The upcoming festival promises a stellar lineup, with headline performances from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Post Malone, The Killers, and SZA.
From June 7-9, This iconic NYC music festival will have music enthusiasts gather in one of the city’s most iconic spaces to witness equally iconic performances.
2024 Gov Ball Lineup
The 2024 lineup for Governors Ball showcases a diverse range of musical genres, also featuring an expanded presence of Latin music, with artists like Peso Pluma, Rauw Alejandro, and Farruko, among others. The weekend kicks off and concludes with powerhouse performances by Post Malone and Rauw Alejandro.
Friday and Sunday also feature special performances by the School of Rock Queens and Brooklyn, highlighting the talent of these performance-based music schools that cater to individuals of all ages. The house bands of these schools will deliver two exceptional performances during the festival. Among the lineup, New York natives such as Arcy Drive, Beach Fossils, and Quarters of Change add a local flair to the event.
Lizzo, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello
For eager fans looking to secure their spots, can sign up for a presale passcode now for the SMS Presale happening THIS Thursday, 1/18 from 11am – 1pm ET.
All ticket prices will increase on Thursday at 1pm ET when the Public On-Sale begins. Ticket prices are all-inclusive with no fees on top.
For 2024, Gov Ball is pleased to announce two new ticket types – 2-Day bundles and Ultimate Tickets. The 2-Day bundle allows fans to customize their festival experience over the weekend and attend any two days of their choosing at any ticket type.
Stay tuned to NYS Music for the latest updates on Governors Ball 2024, including lineup updates, and the eagerly awaited general sale dates, yet to be announced.
In the meantime, relive the excitement of the 2023 edition by checking out our recaps for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Kendrick Lamar at Gov Ball 2023 – photo by Lucas Kurzweil
Phish has announced the details on their first four-day festival – Mondegreen – and their first in more than nine years. The festival will take place at The Woodlands in Dover, DE over August 15-18, 2024.
What is a Mondegreen? Webster defined the word as “a misunderstood or misinterpreted word or phrase resulting from a mishearing of the lyrics of a song.” One example from Phish would be “Read Icculus” being heard as Ridiculous. If there was ever a more fitting name for a Phish festival, it hasn’t been named yet.
Phish will perform multiple sets over the four days of the festival, with a great number of interactive fan experiences yet to be announced, as well as curated regional food and drink, art installations and much more in store.
Magnaball photo by Brian Ferguson
Mondegreen marks the first live performance in Delaware stage for Phish in over two decades, and the latest festival from a band who can be credited with influencing a resurgence of music festivals in the 1990s. Phish’s most recent festival, 2015’s Magnaball, was held at New York’s legendary Watkins Glen International and was widely considered among their best festivals yet.
Centrally located with easy access from all points in the northeast and mid-Atlantic, the festival site will feature an abundance of on-site camping, with many nearby hotel options also available.
Delaware’s picturesque Woodlands is conveniently located within driving distance from major metropolitan areas on the East Coast, including Philadelphia (under two hours), Baltimore (under two hours), Washington, DC (under two hours), and New York City (under three hours). Fans can also take advantage of Amtrak service to Wilmington, DE as well as SEPTA regional rail.
Magnaball Photo by Steve Olker
Travel packages will go on sale this Thursday, January 18, at 11AM ET, with Weekend passes and Camping passes on sale Friday, January 19 at 11AM ET.
For complete details on passes, car and RV camping and parking options, on-site glamping accommodations, travel packages, and more, please visit phish.com/mondegreen.
Multi-faceted Rochester alternative rock/indie band Public Water Supply has announced the release of their groovy new single “Leila” from their upcoming album General Strike which is set to be released in March 29.
Public Water Supplyconsists of five members blending and combining stunning vocals, remarkable instrumentalists, and distinctive songwriting. The band include Iggy Marino, Karis Gregory, Jr., Alex Brophy, Spencer Kornrich, and Tanner Kates.
“Leila” features catchy and eccentric guitars and continuous drumming that give it a sentimental and nostalgic vibe. While the song tells the story of two lovers on a cross-country crime spree, burning rubber, and living an intense but exhilarating life, it still manages to capture all the thrilling and anxious emotions that go along with it.
“We’ve been re-defining our music and experimenting with our sound all year long. I think our babies are really going to notice more of a rock n’ roll feel in these songs and basically, we take no prisoners,” declared frontman Iggy Marino stated, who also coined the affectionate term “babies” for their fans, which some find it odd yet unique.
With the announcement of a new track, the band has also announced the release of their new album General Strike to premier atalbum will premiere at sun festival in March.29 Tickets are on sale now.
“Leila” from Public Water Supply is available to stream everywhere. For more information about the band, visit here.
In the midst of his sixth decade in the music industry, Albert Lee is halfway through yet another month-long tour, with a stop scheduled at the Strand Theatrein Hudson Falls on Jan. 20. The guitar virtuoso, whose accolades and bonafides continue to grow, is showing no signs of slowing down, celebrating his 80th birthday not that long ago.
I had the humbling opportunity to chat with Mr. Lee in the week leading up to his scheduled Jan. 20 appearance at Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls. In a conversation that dances through and around his storied career, one thing is undeniable: the sheer passion he has for his craft. What follows is our conversation.
Lucas Garrett: How’re you doing today, sir?
Albert Lee: Pretty good, pretty good. Thanks. Relaxing.
LG: Great to talk with you today. You’re going to be in the area at The Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls on Jan. 20th.
AL: Yeah, that’s right. Looking forward to it.
LG: It’s awesome that someone such as yourself is coming to a hometown theatre. You’ve been involved in the music industry for a while.
AL: Yeah.
LG: What started all of it for you? What made you say, “This is what I want to do with my life?”
AL: I started playing when I was 13 or 14, and you know, it was exciting. I wasn’t really interested in school; I left school at 15, which you could do at that time in England. I did a couple of day jobs, you know… my main interest was playing the guitar, and pretty soon, I was able to pretty much do it for a living.
photo by Lucas Garrett
LG: How many years did it take for you to do it full-time for a living?
AL: Oh, pretty soon, really. I wasn’t trained to do anything else. I was on the road at 16 – I did a couple of day jobs when I got back from those tours. What I was able to earn in a week was more than I could earn as a 17-year-old… I could earn more playing guitar, and went on from there.
I went off to Germany, and been in a number of bands over the years. Very fortunate to go from one to another.
LG: Anyone with access to the internet is able to quickly lookup all that you’ve done in your impressive career, but are there any moments that really stand out for you?
AL: Oh, yeah! I felt very fortunate with my heroes, The Everly Brothers, for many years. I was friendly with Don Everly, in the 1970’s, when he and his brother weren’t talking to one another. I was also working with Joe Cocker and Emmylou Harris in the 1970’s – I was busy. Then, The Everly Brothers got back together in the early 1980’s… I thought, “This is great! At last, I get to play with The Everly Brothers, even if it’s for a couple of nights.” They decided to go back on the road for albums, and that went on for 25 years or more.
LG: Were you with them that whole time?
AL: Oh yeah! I was with them from 1983 until they finished in the early 2000’s.
LG: Now, you’re going on tour, and playing all these theaters. What other shows are you doing on this tour? Are you in bigger theaters? Smaller theaters?
AL: This tour finishes on Feb. 3rd, and in fact, we finish up in Clear Lake, Iowa, in a big dance hall where Buddy Holly did his last gig. They always celebrate Buddy Holly, and Richie Valens, and the Big Bopper around that time each year. I’ve done that half a dozen times now.
photo by Lucas Garrett
LG: How does it feel to still be on the road? Do you have the same appreciation for it that you’ve had?
AL: Yeah. I’m out here most of the year. It gets hard, you know? This tour is a month, then I’ve got two or three weeks off, and then I go to England for about two or three weeks, and back home again for a month or two, then back out again. I’ve just turned 80 a couple weeks ago.
LG: Well, happy birthday, belated!
AL: Thanks. I never thought this would be happening, but here we are! I’m glad the gigs are there and that I feel well enough – fit enough – to do it.
LG: What inspires you to keep this relentless touring schedule? Where do you find the energy to keep going like that?
AL: Well, we enjoy the work, you know? Sometimes the long trips… we have some long drives some days – couple hundred miles; three hundred miles – I don’t enjoy sitting in the van that long, but it’s what we have to endure to be able to do the gigs. We get there, and the people are happy to see us, and we can relax, have a nice meal, and do the gig. Hopefully get a good night’s sleep, and do it all again the next day.
LG: It’s all part of the deal, right?
AL: Yeah.
LG: What do you to pass the time in between shows?
AL: Well, when I’m home, there’s lots to do. Things fall behind at the house, and I’ve got cars to fix. That takes time, hahaha. The day I left the gig, the window mechanism broke in our car. I’ve got three days to fix it before I have to drive somewhere with a car full of equipment. I’ll manage it.
LG: Listening to you play is always a pleasure. I’m curious if you have any kind of routine that you practice by?
AL: I have to say, after all these years, I don’t pick the guitar up very often, you know? I’m lucky that the licks are still there – they’re always there. When you get to my age, the skin gets thin and you lose the calluses on your fingers. That’s a real pain.
LG: Who are some of your influences as a guitarist?
AL: I don’t listen to a lot of new music. I do know there are a lot of great guitar players out there – a lot more than when I started playing. There’s a lot more competition now. Hahaha. I was inspired by all the early rock and roll guitar players like Scotty Moore with Elvis Presley, and James Burton who played with Ricky Nelson and Elvis. Hank Garland. There were so many great players. I learned to play by learning their solos, you know? That showed me the way around the guitar so I was able to play it with ease.
LG: This show at Hudson Falls on Jan. 20th, what can people expect from this show? Do you have anything special planned?
AL: I’m pretty lazy, really. I think they’ve heard a lot of these songs before, you know, but I’ll be adding some new twists to them. I play differently every night, you know?
LG: Mhm.
AL: I try to keep it fresh for myself. The musicians I play with, it’s the same way. We’re improvising… there’s a set way of doing the songs, but we’re improvising our way through each night.
LG: Who’ll be with you that night?
AL: JT Thomas on keyboards. He also works with Bruce Hornsby. David Chamberlain is on bass; I’ve known him a long time. Jason Smith on drums. We’re all good friends and we like to work together. They’re not always available, so I’m glad that I’m able to get these three guys on tour. These guys have been with me for quite a few years, now, and I’m glad they can do it.
LG: I want to thank you, very much, for taking time out of your day. It was great talking with you.
AL: Oh yeah, you’re welcome. Thank you.
LG: Have a great show, and keep rocking on.
AL: Alright. Well, thank you so much for your interest, I appreciate it.
Referred as a singer with an exquisite tenor, echoing Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel in the piano pop, Seth Glier will perform at the Eighth Step in Schenectady on February 10. This will be the singer’s return to the Capital Region after appearing in October alongside folk singer Tom Rush.
Growing up in Massachusetts, Glier grew up singing a lot of traditional shape note choir music from Appalachia and mountain music from the countries of Bulgaria and Georgia. The singer also grew up in a singing camp called Village Harmony, but now as an artist and activist Glier’s love and understanding of nature, his care for social justice and his music are synchronous. The singer also dedicated his latest album Rise to supporting Trout Unlimited, a national organization dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring America’s coldwater fisheries and their watershed.
The singer’s commitment to using songwriting as a tool for positive change has prompted him to work with the students in Parkland, FL for the ‘Parkland Project’. The project aims to connect Parkland neighborhoods to five schools, three County Parks, and Pacific Lutheran University. It also provides a safe route for people of all ages and abilities to get around in the areas that currently have few sidewalks and bike lanes.
Doors will open at 7 pm on February 10 and tickets can be purchased here and through Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204.
Nestled in Manhattan’s West Side since 1968, the cathedral of rock and roll, Madison Square Garden, opened its doors at 6:00 pm Friday night (January 12), welcoming into its friendly confines loyal card-carrying members of The Tool Army.
The last time Tool visited the hallowed grounds of Madison Square Garden (MSG) – more than 20 years ago – the city, and The Garden itself, were quite different. But one thing has endured the test of time, and that is Tool remains a thinking person’s band. One that is an amalgamation of analytical, primeval, uncompromising, bellicose, and melodic forces.
Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Following an autumn trek of North America and a subsequent two month hiatus, Tool’s Winter Tour 2024 features the latest support from psychedelic metal warriors Elder. Formed in the mid-aughts and hailing from a small seaside town in Massachusetts, frontman and guitarist Nick DiSalvo, bassist Jack Donovan, guitarist Michael Risberg and drummer Georg Edert currently call Berlin, Germany home.
Undoubtedly a momentous occasion to open for Tool, no less while gracing The World’s Most Famous Arena’s hallowed stage, Elder performed like the seasoned veterans they are, delivering on all fronts. Appearing onstage shortly after 7:30 pm, the foursome offered a 30-minute set that showcased exceptional musical craftmanship, taking the steadily growing audience on an evocative, sonic journey.
Known for long-scale compositions, DiSalvo and company presented a trio of stoner rock, mind-altering numbers collected from three of the six studio albums in their discography, including “Sanctuary” (Reflections of a Floating World, 2017), “Merged in Dreams – Ne Plus Ultra” (Innate Passage,2022), and “Halycon” (Omens, 2020).
Elder | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Promptly at 8:30 pm, as the heartbeat introduction to “Third Eye” (Ænima, 1996) began to play on tape over the house PA system, the 20,000-capacity venue went dark, and the crowd erupted with a collective, loud roar. One by one, members of the beloved Los Angeles outfit took to the stage, beginning with drummer Danny Carey, who as usual, was rocking NBA hoops gear. His jersey of choice Friday night was Quentin Grimes’ #6 of the hometown Knicks.
Following close behind Carey were bassist Justin Chancellor and guitarist Adam Jones, each of whom have already left an indelible mark in the annals of rock history with their individual technique and instrumental experimentation. As the title track from 2019’s Fear Inoculum got underway, vocalist Maynard James Keenan emerged from the dark shadows and came into view stage left. Wearing a white button down dress shirt and a dapper black suit vest, he clutched the microphone with both hands, revealing black fingerless gloves. Donning a blonde mohawk, Keenan prowled from side to side, high atop two risers constructed at opposite ends of the stage, and on which he would reside for the show’s duration.
Maynard James Keenan of Tool | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Before “The Pot” (10,000 Days, 2006) commenced, Keenan addressed us all regarding Tool’s well-known policy regarding cell phones:
So, here’s the deal. We’re gonna go for a little ride. We’re gonna connect. Take a little journey, together. Stay present. Stay in your body. Join us. Stay connected. Put your fucking phone away. [At the] end of the show, last song, you can pull your stupid phone out. Until then, stay with us. Are you ready?
Yes, we were all ready! With Tool’s seven pointed heptagram symbol dangling high above the stage, ‘open’ to signify an invitation into the collective unconscious, Tool’s entire set design was a remarkable sight to behold. Stunning visuals projected on the massive LED backdrop, which ranged from the depiction of skeletal zombie bodies with beaming alien eyes to a man trapped inside his own body, were supplemented by a spectacular laser light show that cut through the MSG atmosphere.
Danny Carey of Tool | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Following a 12-minute intermission and a goliath smack of the gong with his mallet, the second portion of the show embarked with Carey seated once again behind his massive kit. Another track from Fear Inoculum ensued, the futuristic interlude known as “Chocolate Chip Trip,” an electronic drum solo that saw the wizard Carey masterfully execute his Toolbox’s modular synthesizer.
Justin Chancellor of Tool | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Chancellor, bathed in a white spotlight, beastly strumming during a distortion and reverb filled bass exhibition, was rejoined by Jones, and eventually Keenan, for the night’s first big surprise – a live performance of “Flood” (Undertow, 1993), unearthed after 13 years! And if that were not enough for the diehard fan, following the evening’s fifth and final offering from Fear Inoculum, “Invincible,” Tool played an extended version of “Schism” (Lateralus, 2001) for the first time as a show closer.
Adam Jones of Tool | Photo Credit: Michael Dinger
Following their two gigs in Gotham, Tool will spend the better part of the next two months bringing their Winter Tour to the masses, culminating in Las Vegas on February 18. Tool, who at present are unsigned to a record label, are reportedly flirting with the idea of releasing an EP rather than a sixth studio album, which would mark their first new material since 2019. Nonetheless, it looks promising that The Tool Army will finally get to hear new music from their art rock heroes later in 2024.
Elder Setlist: Sanctuary, Merged in Dreams – Ne Plus Ultra, Halcyon
Tool Setlist: Fear Inoculum, The Pot, Rosetta Stoned (with “Lost Keys” intro), Pneuma, Intolerance, Descending, The Grudge (intermission), Chocolate Chip Trip, Flood, Invincible, Schism
UPCOMING TOUR DATES
January 18 – Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live January 19 – Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live January 21 – Charlotte, NC @ Spectrum Center January 23 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena January 24 – Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena January 26 – Birmingham, AL @ Legacy Arena January 27 – Biloxi, MS @ Mississippi Coast Coliseum January 31 – Austin, TX @ Moody Center February 2 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center February 3 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Paycom Center February 5 – Denver, CO @ Ball Arena February 9 – Phoenix, AZ @ Footprint Center February 12 – Fresno, CA @ Save Mart Center February 14 – Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena February 15 – Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena February 17 – Ontario, CA @ Toyota Arena February 18 – Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
The team at Jazz Lives recently shared a throwback that caught our eye – Jazz at Charley O’s? The legendary Penn Station libation station for in between trains or before games at The Garden?
Well, close – this is the Charley O’s that was once located at 713 8th Avenue, and was not only a sports bar and grill but also a Jazz Bar and Comedy Club in the evening, as well as a popular spot to go before a night out on the town.
Jazz Lives shares the following recollection of one night at Charley O’s. Once upon a time, I lived in Great Neck, New York, a suburb forty minutes from midtown Manhattan. When in 2005 I found out that my hero Marty Grosz was appearing in the city, probably for a Saturday afternoon session, I checked the Long Island Railroad schedule, packed my cassette recorder, and went there. ”There” was not a jazz club but a hamburger / steak restaurant catering to tourists, where, wonderfully and atypically, hot jazz was on the menu. That place was Charley O’s.
MARTY GROSZ, guitar, vocal; JOHN BUCHER, cornet; JOHN BEAL, double bass, were the band, for the cavernous room. I had met Marty in September 2004 Jazz at Chautauqua, so I may have said a brief hello. I would come to know John Bucher from his appearances at the Cajun. I knew Beal only from recordings, but he was gracious. I asked for a table near the music but none were offered for a single mortal, so I went to the balcony, where I could see the band as well as hear them, admittedly from above and from a distance. (Now, I would know better and would have told the waiter that my three friends were arriving soon, thus earning a table closer to the music. I hope to be forgiven my falsehoods.)
I ordered food — something banal — then set up my recorder to capture the sounds, which were wonderful. I saved the cassette. (A year later, I would have purchased a video camera and a digital recorder, but in 2005 I was still living in a technological past. However,, it DID work.)
You’ll hear I DON’T WANT TO SET THE WORLD ON FIRE / WRAP YOUR TROUBLES IN DREAMS / THREE LITTLE WORDS / A HUNDRED YEARS FROM TODAY / Marty half-heartedly hawking CDs / SUNDAY (incomplete) //
I’ve left in the long intervals between songs because you can hear Marty providing the chordal roadmap for his two colleagues. Impatient listeners can scroll forward; imaginative listeners imagine themselves on the scene.
The room got much more noisy; perhaps my waiter, seeing my empty plate, hovered and said, “Will there be anything else?” and I took the check. On the way out, I thanked the trio and lamented the noise level.
There ends my saga of Charley O’s, sometime in 2005. But the music! Better than the hamburger deluxe and much fresher, even eighteen or so years later.
Photograph by Lynn Redmile
Charley O’s closed some time ago. John Bucher, that gentle man, has left us. Messrs. Beal and Grosz are still laying it down, although slightly less frequently.
Benny The Butcher continues to ramp things up for his debut Def Jam release. Following the success of the Stove God Cooks assisted “One Foot In” and “Big Dog” featuring Lil Wayne, Benny goes iso in the basketball-themed single and video aptly titled “Bron.”
Benny The Butcher
The grainy, flickering visuals finds Benny in a Hapeville, GA school gymnasium along with local basketball players working on their game. Moreover, as the track’s soulful keyboard loop wraps around the orchestral sounding beat, Benny muscles his way into the spotlight with his emphatic delivery, letting off his customary warning shot, “The Butcher coming!”
In essence, the music video conveys that the BSF head-honcho’s claim for hip hop supremacy is a result of him outworking his adversaries. After all, the Buffalo native claimed on X (formerly known as twitter) that he would have the best Def Jam release since DMX’s debut-album. While a strong take, he stands as one of the few street rappers breaking into the mainstream. Ultimately landing a gold single with the J. Cole assisted “Johnny P’s Caddy.”
On “Bron,” Benny leans into his confident, charismatic and clever cadence while maintaining his role as a street general. He affirms, “In my city, I’m King Kong,” and cleverly confides this the songs hook, “I’m Bron. After my chip I told my folks back home so long. I moved my family and my bricks somewhere it’s warm.”
Everybody Can’t Go is set for release on January 26.
The Big Loud Rock Heavy-hitter Hardy announced his ‘QUIT!!’ tour that will kick off in May with shows in Saratoga Springs and Darien Center this summer.
The Philadelphia-born singer HARDY will kick off his tour on May.30 which will make a stop at the Broadview Stage at SPAC on June 7, and the Darien Lake Amphitheater on June 8. The singer/songwriter’s upcoming tour will also feature Nashville-based Multi-Platinum country singer Kip Moore, Mercury Nashville recording artist Travis Denning, and a maverick country music based in Alabama, Ella Langley.
This will mark as a return for the artist as Hardy soared to new heights in 2023 with the release of critically acclaimed half-country, half-rock sophomore album the mockingbird & THE CROW, adding to nearly four billion career streams and a “the mockingbird & THE CROW” Tour that ended last year.
Tickets for the ‘Quit!!’ tour go on sale on Friday, January 19 at 10 a.m., with select fan pre-sales starting on Tuesday, January 16. Buy tickets here.
HARDY SUMMER 2024 ‘QUIT!!’ TOUR May 30 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP *◎ May 31 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre *◎ June 1 – Noblesville, IN. – Ruoff Music Center *◎ June 6 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage *◎ June 7 – Saratoga Springs, NY. – Broadview Stage at SPAC *◎ June 8 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater * June 14 – Charlotte, NC. – PNC Music Pavilion *✭ June 15 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park *✭ June 20 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center *✭ June 21 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center *✭ June 22 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion *✭ June 27 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion *✭ June 28 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live *✭ July 25 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center * July 27 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre * * Travis Denning ✭ Ella Langley ◎ Stephen Wilson Jr.
In the heart of the Capital Region, you’ll find more than just streets and buildings â you’ll discover a lively melody that reverberates through Albany, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, and Troy. These cities collectively host a variety of venues, each adding its unique flavor to the local music scene.
From lively stages to cozy spots, every venue contributes to the dynamic soundtrack of the region stretching from Lake George to the tip of the Hudson Valley.
The Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College has a capacity of 600. Offering a highbrow lineup featuring classical and jazz artists, the center also occasionally hosts mainstream heavyweights. The venue, with upgraded facilities, provides a unique experience for both students and the wider community.
Address: 815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Situated in the heart of historic Saratoga Springs in the Capital Region The Brook Tavern is a beloved neighborhood gathering spot at the crossroads of Union and Nelson Ave. Only a short walk from the Saratoga Race Course and within walking distance of Congress Park, it offers a convenient and welcoming locale for locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the live music every Tuesday, adding a delightful rhythm to the vibrant atmosphere.
Address: 139 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Bye-i ⢠Brewing is dedicated to delivering the Capital Region the beer they deserve, prioritizing quality over profit. As they aspire to become a symbol of American culture, their commitment extends to community involvement and giving back to those who support their growth. The brewery also features live music as a focal point of its offerings.
Caffè Lena is the oldest continuously operating folk venue in the US. With a capacity of 110, it has hosted iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris. The venue’s intimate setting underwent a $2 million renovation in 2016, offering a cozy space for folk enthusiasts to enjoy live performances.
Nestled in downtown Albany, Capital Repertory Theatre (theREP) stands as an acclaimed professional theater, recognized for its diverse range of productions. From contemporary and classic drama to off-Broadway musicals, cutting-edge comedy, and world premieres, theREP’s year-round season draws theater enthusiasts of all ages. Beyond providing opportunities for seasoned professionals and rising stars, theREP extends its impact by offering unique educational programs to students in the Capital Region.
Centre Street Public House and Beer Garden (Schenectady)
Centre Street Public House and Garden offers a distinctive and inviting atmosphere, featuring top-notch craft brews, a gastropub menu, and exquisite banquet facilities. Additionally, the venue hosts weekly live music, adding a vibrant and entertaining element to its appeal.
Opening in 1976, the Cock n Bull celebrates a near half-century of great food and more recently, Music in the Barn. As notes by the business, the custom of playing music in a barn has been a lively part of American rural life since the 19th century, with the acoustics of the Cock n Bull’s post-and-beam barn continuing this regional tradition.
Established in 1874, Cohoes Music Hall in Cohoes is the fourth oldest operating music hall in the US. It hosts solo artists, theater troupes, jazz acts, and tribute bands. The venue actively supports up-and-coming acts, contributing to the local arts community.
A distinctive landmark in Albany’s skyline, The Egg offers two theaters with capacities of 982 and 450. Completed in 1978, it hosts a range of events, from jazz-rock acts to ballet performances. The Egg stands out not only for its unique architecture but also for its diverse programming, including roots, rock, jazz, and comedy.
Address: Agency Building 1, S Mall Arterial, Albany
ââOwned by Michell Ramsey, who also owns Jay St. Pub in Schenectady, The Electric Grinch derives its name from a Schenectady bar of the 1970s and 1980s. Situated at 116 Jay Street, the venue offers live music and a full bar, with operating hours on Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Empire Live in downtown Albany, a top music venue in the Capital Region, features two stages: Empire Live and Empire Underground. With a 1,000-person capacity, Empire Live offers a spacious setting and excellent stage views. In contrast, Empire Underground, located in the basement, provides a more intimate experience with a 350-person capacity.
The Step stands as America’s oldest continuously running non-profit coffeehouse and concert stage, showcasing the finest independent acoustic music in Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts, and lower Vermont. Featuring a diverse range of genres, including contemporary and traditional folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, Celtic, and more, our five-decade performer roster reads like a folk Who’s Who. From Pete Seeger and Janette Carter to The Chicks and Jeff Daniels, The Step continues to bring exceptional acoustic performances to its audience.
The Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) is a multi-venue arts center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, opening in 2008. A variety of adventurous programming in music, performance, media, theater, and much more can be found at EMPAC, including a state-of the-art concert hall, leading the New York Times to call EMPAC a âtechnological pleasure dome for the mind.”
Since 1985, The Fuze Box has been a historically diverse live performance venue, consistently at the forefront of championing the next generation of alternative misfits and miscreants.
The Glove Theatre opened in 1914 and hosted movies, music, vaudeville, and civic events, and in 1920 it became the flagship theatre and home office of Schine Enterprises until 1965. In 1971 the venue officially closed, though it did have a few civic engagements during that decade, and reopened in Oct. of 1997 with the âThe Phantom of the Glove.â The Glove Theatre is a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing an accessible expression platform for the arts that engages, entertains, and educates the regional community, giving economic opportunities to the Southern Adirondack and Mohawk Valley regions.
The Hangar is a concert venue and event space showcasing both local and national acts, with most shows occurring on Friday through Sunday nights. Nestled by the Hudson River in Troy, it offers an intimate, roadhouse-style experience for music enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Hangar consistently features entertaining bands, providing a great setting for friends and fellow music fans. The attentive, friendly, and professional bar staff enhance the overall experience.
Established in 2013, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen stands as a celebrated and distinctive downtown Albany establishment. It holds the distinction of being the sole 4-star restaurant in the Capital Region. Under the guidance of Anna Weisheit, the 2016 Albany Chef’s Food & Wine Festival Rising Star Chef Winner, The Hollow offers a remarkable combination of a craft beer bar and a recognized live music venue, making it a unique and acclaimed destination.
The Inn at Saratoga (Saratoga Springs) The Inn, adorned with live music, becomes a haven for relaxation and entertainment.. The monthly-updated music calendar ensures a delightful experience for patrons seeking a harmonious blend of ambiance and talent.
In the evening, The Kings Inn hosts live music performances, enhancing its hospitality-driven atmosphere. The staff, known for their patience, plays a pivotal role in ensuring a welcoming environment. For those seeking prompt service, The Kings Inn stands out. Visitors have praised the bar for its exotic ambiance, making it a notable venue where bands regularly perform.
Lark Hall, a historic music venue was originally constructed in 1916 by the Daughters of the Eastern Star. Meticulously restored and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it provides a unique and unmatched experience for both performers and audiences alike.
Situated in the heart of the Lark Street district, Lark Tavern, an iconic establishment in the Capital District since 1933, serves as a cherished watering hole and gathering spot for locals. With a rich tradition centered around food, drink, and entertainment, the revamped Lark Tavern adds a retro vintage flair to the Tavern experience, featuring live music for an added vibrancy.
The Linda â WAMCâs Performing Arts Studio (Albany)
Founded in 2002, The Linda â WAMCâs Performing Arts Studio, is a meticulously restored 1926 bank situated in the heart of Albany’s Central Avenues Business District. This versatile venue serves as a multi-purpose auditorium and recording studio, welcoming a diverse array of events such as concerts, debates, lectures, films, celebrations, and more, many of which are broadcasted across WAMC’s seven-state listening area and online at wamc.org.
The Arena hosts a variety of events including concerts, family shows, sporting contests and trade shows. Home to the AFL Albany Empire, and the Siena Saints MAAC basketball team, the MVP Arena is a regular host to premier NCAA events.
No Fun, presented by Pint Sized, serves as the primary hub for experimental music aficionados in the Capital Region. Recognized as a live music venue, it is celebrated for providing a platform for avant-garde and cutting-edge musical performances.
Opening its doors in 1931, it has hosted iconic acts like The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen. The Palace Theatre continues to feature Broadway plays, dance concerts, and movies, providing a stunning setting for diverse performances.
Originally a vaudeville venue, it has evolved into a multi-genre event space hosting Broadway musicals, dance concerts, and movies. Proctors continues to adapt its mission to the contemporary environment while maintaining its historical charm.
Formerly known as Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs, Putnam Place underwent a major transformation into a classy music venue, nightclub, and event space. With a capacity of 500, it has become a year-round destination, hosting diverse acts and contributing to Saratoga’s vibrant nightlife.
Renowned as Troy NY’s premier live music venue, The Rustic Barn Pub consistently delivers high-quality live entertainment, emphasizing the importance of exceptional performances. Committed to creating memorable experiences, they invite audiences to join them on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights for live music spanning a diverse range of genres.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (Saratoga Springs)
Located in Saratoga Springs, SPAC is a versatile venue with a capacity of 25,000. It hosts a diverse range of events, from performances by The Philadelphia Orchestra and New York City Ballet to Live Nation’s pop, country, hip-hop, and classic rock acts. Surrounded by natural beauty and historic architecture, SPAC provides a unique experience, attracting top artists across genres.
Address: 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs
Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, NY, Saratoga City Tavern is a vibrant establishment offering a selection of over 110 draughts, delectable cuisine, and entertainment seven days a week. With five floors, this Saratoga, NY bar and tavern ensures there’s something to delight every visitor.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, Spa City Tap & Barrel stands as the city’s newest hangout. With a rustic charm and a modern touch, this cozy pub offers 32 beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a pub-style menu perfect for pairing with any sporting event. Patrons can enjoy live music on weekends, along with game nights and themed events throughout the week, making Spa City Tap & Barrel a vibrant destination for entertainment. Open seven days a week, it’s the ideal spot to experience Saratoga’s lively atmosphere.
Built in 1875, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall in Troy is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics. With a capacity of 1,253, the venue attracts classical, folk, and Americana performers. The Music Hall preserves its 19th-century charm, providing an intimate connection between performers and the audience.
For over 50 years, the UAlbany Performing Arts Center has stood as a prominent cultural asset for the University at Albany and the wider Capital Region community. Hosting the Prime Performance Series annually, the center brings a diverse array of national and international artists in music, dance, and theatre. With five distinctive performance theatres, a dance studio, rehearsal spaces, and dedicated libraries, the UAlbany PAC serves as a vibrant hub for artistic endeavors.
Additionally, A Place for Jazz shares a few dozen or so venues in the Capital Region that offer Jazz occasionally, or regularly.
Just north of the Capital District are a few venues that may fall outside of the typical ‘Capital Region’ geographic definition, but are still under an hour drive to see great live music.
Charles R Wood Theater (Glens Falls)
The Charles R. Wood Theater is a year-round performing arts facility in downtown Glens Falls, offering cultural events and productions with three spaces in the building for events – a 300-seat theater, a 3,000 square foot rehearsal hall, and over 2,600 square feet of lobby space.
The Festival Commons at Charles R. Wood Park, located at the southern end of Lake George, is home to many events during the summer, most notably Memorial Meltdown and Adirondack Independence Festival, and much more in between. The grounds also include a skatepark and have public restrooms, all within walking distance of “The Queen of American Lakes,â Lake George.
Cool Insuring Arena is a multi-purpose sports and music arena located in downtown Glens Falls. When they are not home to the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL, the former Glens Falls Civic Center has hosted a great number of classic concerts – The Who’s first comeback show in 1989, Phish performing The White Album in its entirety (and playing past 3am), among many others – and has many great years left as the Glens Falls region sees a renaissance in their downtown over the past decade.
DJ’s Niteclub is a seasonal club in Lake George, New York that offers a view of the village strip. They offer a variety of music and night life in Lake George for locals and tourists alike.
The building structure of Fort Salem Theater dates back to 1774, and after fires and rebuildings, by 1882, a chapel made this future theatre and arts venue, complete. Improvements in the 1970s made Fort Salem the premiere summer stock theater in the Northeast, with family-oriented musicals, comedies and dramas. Renovations from 2006-7 brought Fort Salem into the 21st century, with seats donated from Broadwayâs Helen Hayes Theater. The theater is under new ownership and reopened in June 2021.
Since 1878, Hubbard Hall has developed, produced, and presented theater, music, opera, dance, and the visual arts and in recent years has become a world-class development center for new work. A non-profit since 1977, Hubbard Hall attracts artists, students, and audience members as a fertile training ground for both young and seasoned artists, Offering classes in dance, theater, music, movement, visual arts, puppetry, creative writing, martial arts, yoga, and even gardening, this multi-purpose venue gives students of all ages an opportunity to train, collaborate, and thrive.
Built in 1911, The Park Theater is the premier entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. The theater holds a rich history within the community and has been revitalized as a destination for performing arts, weddings, and events.
A former lakeside teaching studio of internationally renowned soprano Marcella Sembrich (1858-1935), The Sembrich has a distinguished operatic career and musical legacy, offering a variety of programs, articles, and multi-media presentations online and in person.
The Strand Theatre opened its doors on January 17, 1923, and after being closed for a period of time, was reopened on October 7, 2016 through the nonprofit Hudson River Music Hall Productions, which came together in 2010 with the goal of helping to rehabilitate old buildings in Hudson Falls. Having a huge calendar each month (see below) with a wide variety of genres, shows and experiences, the Strand Theatre holds the distinction as the only major music venue in Washington and Warren Counties that is open year-round. Part of a chain of Strand Theatres built in the early 20th century, other venues under the name Strand can be found in Plattsburgh and Schroon Lake, as well as others that have closed over time.
