Category: Western NY

  • Gary Clark Jr. Goes Beyond the Blues at Artpark

    Gary Clark Jr. captivated a full house in the Mainstage Theater at Artpark in Lewiston, NY on Saturday, May 25. While he may best be known for his prodigious blues playing he’s made an effort in recent years to broaden his musical stylings, incorporating a wide range of genres in his more recent releases.

    Gary Clark Jr artpark

    Nowhere is that more apparent than in Gary Clark Jr.’s latest full length release, JPEG RAW, which was showcased throughout the evening’s selections. Backed by his eight piece band he deftly moved through funk, rock and hip-hop inspired tracks to the delight of the crowd. His tour rolls on with upcoming shows in Albany and Lafayette, NY.

    Gary Clark Jr. – Artpark, Lewiston, NY – Saturday, May 25, 2024

    Setlist: Maktub, When My Train Pulls In, Hyperwave, This Is Who We Are, The Healing, Alone Together, Triumph, Bright Lights, Habits
    Encore: Stay (with Abraham Alexander), Funk Witch U

  • In Focus: The Avett Brothers Bring Old Memories, New Music to CMAC

    CMAC kicked off its summer concert season in a big way on Friday, May 24, with the much anticipated return by The Avett Brothers.  The Avett Brothers, who last performed at CMAC in 2019, were joined by Sierra Ferrell.  

    It has been a long road for The Avett Brothers, now in their 24th year together.  The North Carolina natives released their 11th studio album earlier this month, a self titled collection of ballads and rollicky folk-rock tracks which have helped the band build their passionate and devoted fanbase.

    The evening kicked off with a brilliant set by Sierra Ferrell.  Ferrell wasted no time getting the audience out of their seats and dancing along to her unique blend of folk and latin sounds.  Seth Avett joined Ferrell early in the set to duet on the Steven Fromholz classic “I’d Have to be Crazy”, much to the joy of those in attendance.  Ferrell closed out her set with the raucous “Fox Hunt”, which had the energy in the amphitheater boiling over like a pot of water.  

    After a short set change over, the Avett Brothers took the stage and wasted no time showcasing the beautiful harmonies fans have grown accustomed to. The band opened with an acapella duet between brothers Scott and Seth.  The sounds segued brilliantly in to the opening track, the beautiful ballad, “Never Apart” off the band’s latest release.  The band got the party moving next with the wild “Satan Pulls the Strings” which saw each band member taking a turn at the front of the stage to showcase their talents. 

    Through out the evening, the band brilliantly wove their new music with older fan favorites. The stunning new track “Cheap Coffee” held strong along side classic tracks like “Murder in the City”, “The Ballad of Love and Hate,” and “Laundry Room”.

    Late in the set, the brothers reminisced on their past performances in the area.  They spoke of their love for Canandaigua, and having vacationed there last year.  The two praised the audience for the love and devotion they have shown the band since day one, a love not always reciprocated by the media.  “Every night Seth says to me, ‘I love you, goodnight.’  We did not always get that from the media.  Some of them loathed us.  Some even compared us to muppets,” Scott proclaimed. With that, the stage lights dimmed on the band and a spotlight shone on ‘The Avetts’, a muppet version of the band, complete with their own instruments.  ‘The Avetts’ would perform two tracks (with the brothers performing stage left, out of the spotlight), offering a reminder to never take yourself too seriously.

    As the evening closed with the heartfelt “No Hard Feelings”, the band was met with a standing ovation, cheers, high fives and fist bumps. The message the audience sent back to the Avett Brothers was simple.

    “We love you, goodnight”.

  • Hearing Aide: Well Worn Boot’s ‘Live from Jamestown’

    1970s-style Americana/hard-rock band Well Worn Boot released Live from Jamestown on May 20, a live album featuring four songs from their 2023 album, Riverbottom Nightmare. The nearly 20-minute experience uses recorded audio from two live 2022 performances, one in Jamestown and the other in Forestville.

    Initially formed in 2010, Well Worn Boot has always thrived on their commitment to entertain. Constantly dressed in extravagant costumes for live sets, the band’s public inspiration of GWAR is worn on their sleeves. Their 2023 album, Riverbottom Nightmare, saw Well Worn Boot returning and refining the comedy-laced American hard rock sound they began in their early years, particularly on their only previous full-length project, Greatest Hits: Vol. 1 (2010-2014).

    The boys in the band’s newest project, Live from Jamestown, which was released exclusively on Bandcamp, sees Well Worn Boot taking a choice few songs from their previous album to a live setting. The live atmosphere of both sets is perfectly encapsulated through lead singer/flutist Plainsman’s natural stage banter and the crowd’s cheers, but clearly mixed with care so that the online quality is top-notch.

    Photo Credit – Rob Emhof

    While not having any original tracks, Live from Jamestown shows Well Worn Boot in their element: the stage. All four songs maintain the manic and over-the-top energy that came from their studio counterparts, but dialed up to 11. Good luck trying to keep the hooks from “Knockin’ One Back with the Boys” or “Makin’ Money for the City” out of your head.

    The biggest highlight of the album has to be the eight-minute barn burner, “Boys in the Band.” Already a six-minute track on the 2023 album, the live version extends the run time by an additional two minutes, mostly taken up by a mid-song passionate yet hilarious comparison of being in a band to being on a sports team.

    Hopefully Live from Jamestown is just a hold-me-over for Well Worn Boot’s next full-length LP, because the world needs more of the theatric aggression that Well Worn Boot relentlessly displays with every release, especially this one.

    Key Tracks: “Knockin’ One Back with the Boys,” “Makin’ Money for the City,” “Boys in the Band”

  • New Rochester Recording Studios Listening Event with Sarah De Valliere

    A new recording studio, Tones Studios, has opened in Irondequoit, NY and to welcome the community into the new space, the studio will host a listening event of artist Sarah De Vallière‘s new album on May 31.

    Tones Studios

    This state of the art studio which was founded in 2017 was constructed in 2019 in a renovated church just outside of Rochester giving a chance for artists in the local area to connect with each other as well as high quality recording technology. 

    Tones offers a variety of production suites, including a live recording studio, a video and photo recording suite and even a fully functioning kitchen. Tones also has an editing suite to bring production to live after a recording session. 

    The studio has been widely used by the community including to film live performances, Joe Bean commercials, and cooking videos as well as recording music. 

    De Vallière’s album, The Healing is a 10-song concept album that explores growing and changing from trauma. The album is set to release on June 7 but guests at the listening event will be able to get a preview of the album on the ATC SCM50 monitoring system, as well as guided tours of the facilities. De Vallière herself will be in attendance as well as Tones Studios project managers.

    You can listen to her music and find more information here on her website. You can RSVP to the free event here.

  • CMAC 2024 Concert and Events Lineup Feat. The Avett Brothers, Goose, Brandi Carlile and More

    This summer, Canandaigua’s Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC), will feature 18 shows starting in May through August. The CMAC 2024 roster features artists spanning from rock to country, welcoming fans of all genres.

    Performance at CMAC

    The Avett Brothers– May 24 at 7 PM

    Grammy-nominated folk-rock band, The Avett Brothers, are kicking off CMAC’s 2024 season with their summer tour for the band’s brand new self-titled album released on May 17. Joining them as a guest is country and bluegrass artist Sierra Ferrell.

    Avett Brothers' CMAC date

    Zach Brown Band- June 2 at 6:30 PM

    Over the past 22 years as a band, the multi-platinum southern rock group led by Zac Brown have had five consecutive #1 albums on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart and won three GRAMMY awards including Best New Artist, Best Country Collaboration with Vocals, and Best Country Album. After releasing their new live album From The Road, Vol. 1: Covers and two new singles, the band will bring plenty of music, new and old, to CMAC.

    Warren Haynes- June 9 at 7 PM

    Former member of The Allman Brothers Band, The Dead, and founding member of Gov’t Mule, Warren Haynes is bringing the Now Is The Time tour to CMAC this summer featuring the Warren Haynes Band and The Dreams and Songs Symphonic Experience

    Warren Haynes' CMAC date

    Goose– June 15 at 7:30 PM

    Goose is a five-piece jam band hailing from Connecticut with clear influences from Phish and The Grateful Dead. Taking their 2024 summer tour on the road to support their latest album Ted Tapes 2024, the band will bring a slew of energetic music to Canandaigua.

    Carrie Underwood- June 21 at 7:30 PM

    Returning to the stage after last summer’s U.S. arena tour, multi-faceted country star Carrie Underwood, known for songs such as “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus Take the Wheel,” is making a stop at CMAC while on a break from her Las Vegas residency REFLECTION.

    Brandi Carlile– June 29 at 7:30 PM

    Nine-time GRAMMY winner Brandi Carlile returns to CMAC during a small tour of East Coast shows in June. She will be joined by her long-time collaborators, The Hanseroth Twins, who have played alongside her throughout her career. In recent years, she has worked closely with legends such as Joni Mitchell, Tanya Tucker, and Elton John.

    Norah Jones- July 5 at 7:30 PM

    Embarking on her North America Visions Tour 2024, nine-time GRAMMY winner, Norah Jones, is coming to CMAC in support of her new album Visions, released in March. With her, she brings the legendary soul singer Mavis Staples as her guest.

    Norah Jones' CMAC date

    Jason Mraz & The Superband- July 10 at 7:30 PM

    Singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, whose 2008 song “I’m Yours” put him on the radar, is continuing his tour, The Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride this summer, supporting his 2023 album of the same name. The alt-pop band Ripe will join the tour as a guest.

    Sam Hunt- August 15 at 6:30 PM

    Chart-topping country artist Sam Hunt, who can be recognized by his 2017 hit “Body Like A Back Road” is returning to the CMAC lineup while on tour for his new EP, Locked Up. He will be accompanied at CMAC by special guests and fellow country musicians Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line and Dalton Dover.

    Tedeschi Trucks Band– August 16 at 7 PM

    The 12-piece rock and soul group led by husband and wife Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi are returning to CMAC on their Deuces Wild 2024 tour, where country singer-songwriter Margo Price will join as their guest performer.

    Tedeschi Trucks Band's CMAC date

    Tickets and more information on these events can be found on CMAC’s website.

    Other Concerts and Events at CMAC

    John Fogerty- June 11 at 7 PM

    Oliver Anthony- June 22 at 8 PM

    Cody Jinks- July 18 at 7 PM

    Dierks Bentley– July 20 at 7 PM

    Chicago– July 25 at 7 PM

    Little River Band- August 9 at 7 PM

    Pentatonix- August 29 at 7 PM

    Miranda Lambert- August 30 at 7 PM

  • Artpark 2024 Summer Concert Lineup, Celebrating 50 Years

    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. 

    Aerial View of Artpark's Main Stage

    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’s Fumbling 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. 

    Sarah McLachlan will perform alongside Feist at Artpark

    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.

    Orville Peck will perform at Artpark on July 1

    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.” 

    Train will perform at Artpark on July 19

    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 S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival will stop at Artpark on July 30

    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.

    The Backroads Blues Festival will stop at Artpark on August 10

    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. 

    Blues Traveler & Big Head Todd and the Monsters will perform at Artpark on August 16

    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.”

    Cole Swindell will perform at Artpark on August 29

    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.”

    Cage the Elephant will perform at Artpark on September 7

    Tickets and more information are available here.

    https://youtu.be/wUvmTHqX2uQ?si=YvIPQZuX5TMXaAn3
  • Buffalo’s Cobblestoned Vibes Festival Announces Artist Lineup

    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. 

    The Artist Lineup for the 2024 Cobblestone Vibes Festival

    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

  • In Focus: Origami Angel Electrifies Town Ballroom

    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.

  • Dark Star Orchestra Announce More Summer Dates – Shows at Wonderland Forest, Pier 17, Frog Alley and Innovative Field in Rochester

    Dark Star Orchestra, one of the country’s premier Grateful Dead tribute bands, have finalized their U.S. summer touring schedule. The tour will span both coasts and everything in between, and the band’s August slate now contains shows all throughout New York State.

    Dark Star Orchestra summer

    Along the tour, Dark Star Orchestra is going to be performing some special this summer. For the July 21 show at the Stone Pony Summer Stage in Asbury Park, NJ the band announced today they will be recreating the Dead’s epic 9/3/77 show from nearby Englishtown, NJ. “Its proximity, only 25 miles from Asbury Park, and the fact that it was an epic outdoor show, made sense for us to choose,” notes DSO bassist Skip Vangelas.  “It’s a classic show in the GD world and one that New Jerseyans, whether Deadhead or not have never forgotten!”

    A few weeks later, the band is scheduled to play Wonderland Forest in Lafayette, NY on August 9 and 10. The newly established venue located just south of Syracuse will also play host to the Biscoland festival this summer. DSO will also play The Rooftop at Pier 17 on August 11, Innovative Field in Rochester on August 21 and the Frog Alley Summer Stage in Schenectady the following day on August 22.

    Special dates are dotted all throughout the summer tour, including the band’s debut at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA on July 13. It marks a celebration of 40 years of the Rex Foundation and the benefit performance will see DSO offer a 40-years-to-the-day recreation of the Dead’s 7/13/84 performance from The Greek Theatre.

    More information and links to ticketing info can be found here.

  • Buffalo Central Terminal Announces 2024 Calendar of Free Events from May to October

    Buffalo Central Terminal has announced the release of their calendar of free events for the 2024 season. The community events take place from May to October at the Buffalo Central Terminal Lawn.

    The Buffalo Central Terminal

    The festival includes a large variety of fun activities and events for all members of the community to enjoy. Events range from live music, plays, and movie nights to fitness bootcamps and car shows. Along with this, there are school giveaways for kids returning to the books along with an all-encompassing fall fest. From summer to fall, the Buffalo Central Terminal Festival keeps the community engaged and entertained.

    The Buffalo Central Terminal

    The historic Buffalo Central Terminal is a prominent feature of Buffalo’s East Side and the Broadway Fillmore neighborhood. The not-for-profit Central Terminal Restoration Corp. has been the caretaker for more than 20 years.

    The community driven Master Plan re-establishes the Terminal as a hub of activity. Buffalo Central Terminal is a beacon that attracts people and investment, celebrates, and fosters community voice and connections that contributes to the strong future of the city and region.

    This year, the historic landmark boasts 15 free of charge events over the course of five months. The festival sees one event May 18, three in June, five in July, three in August, and two sendoff events in October.

    The Buffalo Central Terminal

    Buffalo Central Terminal 2024 Festival Events

    Health is Wealth Fitness Bootcamp A 3-part fitness and cardio bootcamp lead by GCOPE Fitness. The series is held on the Central Terminal Lawn from 9am to 10am on May 18, June 22, and June 29.

    Central Terminal Car Show Admire over 100 meticulously restored sport compact and muscle cars Sunday, June 30 from 10am to 5pm at the Central Terminal Car Show.

    Movie Night This year we’re hosting two movie nights at the Terminal. Join us July 29 for a taste of nostalgia with “The Goonies.” August 28 shows an animated film that’s perfect for the little ones. More to be announced soon.

    Summer Concert Series After the tremendous enthusiasm from our audience last year, we’re excited to announce that our Summer Concert Series has been expanded to four sensational nights! Join us July 11, July 18, July 29, and August 8 from 5pm to 8pm.

    Shakespeare in the Park returns to the Central Terminal Friday, July 19 with a “Midsummer Night’s Tour.” from 7pm to 8:30pm.

    5th Annual Back to School Giveaway hosted by Leg. Howard Johnson & CM Nowakowski

    Get geared up for new school year at our giveaway Saturday, August 17 from 9am to 12pm.

    Fall Fest Enjoy our family-friendly Fall Fest Saturday, October 12 from 11am-3pm, featuring music, pumpkin decorating, photog areas, beer & wine vendors and more.

    Trunk or Treat hosted by Matt Urban Center The tradition continues Tuesday, October 29 from 4pm to 6pm.

    To learn more about each event, and for more information on the Buffalo Central Terminal, click here.

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