Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) has announced that its popular “Sounds of the Season” holiday series will return from December 13-15 in Spa Little Theater.
The show features genre-defying trio Time for Three (DEC 13), Damien Sneed (DEC 14) leading “A Gospel Holiday” celebration, and GRAMMY-nominated vocal ensemble VOCES8 (DEC 15). Time For Three is back by popular demand following their “Sounds of the Season” appearance in 2023. Known for energetic performances that seamlessly merge classical, Americana, modern pop, and singer-songwriter styles, the trio will bring special arrangements of holiday favorites alongside original music.
Making his return to the Spa Little Theater stage on December 14 is multi-genre recording artist and instrumentalist Damien Sneed alongside his band. Sneed will present his new production of “A Gospel Holiday” featuring his original arrangements of gospel, jazz, and classical holiday favorites including Silent Night, The Christmas Song and Jesus, Oh What A Wonderful Child.
The “Sounds of the Season” series will culminate on December 15 with 2023 GRAMMY-nominated British vocal ensemble VOCES8 for its “Winter Tales” program. Following their SPAC debut in 2019, the a cappella group will perform a mix of holiday music spanning centuries from Es ist ein Ros’ entsprungen to Let it Snow. The announcement marks the continuation of SPAC’s year-round programming in the Spa Little Theater, which is inclusive of a fall, holiday and spring season and is part of SPAC’s mission to present year-round programming.
Time for Three
“Sounds of the Season” Program Schedule:
A Time For Three Holiday
Friday, December 13 | 7 PM
Defying conventions with genre-bending excellence, Time For Three’s captivating sound merges classical, Americana, modern pop, and singer-songwriter styles, and their charismatic performances push creative boundaries. In addition to incredible arrangements of Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Led Zeppelin and others, the trio featuring Charles Yang (violin, vocals), Nicolas “Nick” Kendall (violin, vocals), and Ranaan Meyer (double bass, vocals), will present original music and special arrangements of holiday favorites.
Damien Sneed: A Gospel Holiday
Saturday, December 14 | 7 PM
A multi-genre recording artist, Damien Sneed is a pianist, vocalist, organist, composer, conductor, arranger, producer, and arts educator. Sneed returns to SPAC with an all-new project, “A Gospel Holiday,” featuring his original arrangements of gospel, jazz, and classical holiday favorites like Silent Night, The Christmas Song and Jesus, Oh What A Wonderful Child.
VOCES8: Winter Tales
Sunday, December 15 | 7 PM
Touring globally, the group showcases their diverse musical expression and versatility through an extensive repertoire ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary. Their program “Winter Tales” features a mix of holiday music spanning centuries from Es ist ein Ros’ entsprungen to Let it Snow.
Damien Sneed
For more information on “Sounds of the Season” at SPAC and to purchase tickets click here.
There are cover bands and tribute bands, and then there are bands who take the tribute to another level. One of those bands is Dark Star Orchestra, who recreate classic Grateful Dead shows in their entirety, as they were once performed. Enter Reprise, a band that does for Phish what DSO does for the Dead – but with the added bonus of not only playing a classic Phish show from the town/area they’re playing in, they also make it a point to have the show be as accurate as possible to the original performance, in terms of song length, antics, commentary, and even interplay between band members and crew.
Photo by Chris Bobillo
On Saturday, November 2 at Lark Hall in Albany, Reprise – Cal Kehoe (Pink Talking Fish – guitar), Scott Chasolen (The Machine, Ulu – keys), Chris DeAngelis (Kung Fu, The Breakfast, RAQ, The Machine – bass) and Adrian Tramontano (Twiddle, Kung Fu, The Breakfast, RAQ, Marble Eyes, Mihali – drums) – brought to life one of Albany’s classic Phish shows, calling back to December 13, 1997, the Fall 1997 tour closer.
Photo by Chris Bobillo
For me, this was not only my first Reprise show, but they were recreating the first Phish show I ever saw live. While my memories from that show are limited to “Sample in a Jar,” “Good Times Bad Times,” the lights going out during “Hood” and the cacophony of ‘bringing the Dude’ during “Mike’s Song,” I have relistened to that show more times than I can count. The tour closer stands out in one of Phish’s greatest tours, and begged for regular relistening to see what I missed that night when I was still a noob.
The show is chock full of jams, some rarities and new songs (for 1997) and some silliness that you only find at a Phish show when the band is dialed in and wrapping up a tour. I know this show by ear, and without looking at the setlist, let the show play out as it originally did just under 27 years ago, seeing what surprises were in store, but more importantly, how well Reprise did their homework on the recreation of the improvisation within the show.
To that end, as students of this particular show, they nailed the assignment with flying colors. The “Ya Mar” was played to nearly the same length as the original 18+ minute jumping off point for the show, including the end of the jam that never really ended the song proper. A good chunk of the first set beyond that may appear on paper to be pedestrian, but the tempo of the “Theme From the Bottom” ending, the 11-minute “Vultures,” and the thrilling “Tube” that gave way to a set closing ball of energy in “Good Times Bad Times” gave an ebb and flow to the show that lines up with the original show, no complaints registered.
Photo by Chris Bobillo
The second set opening with “NICU” kept that free-flowing vibe going out of setbreak (were these the same length of time as well? A good question for manager Tom Marshall.) and into “Punch You in the Eye,” which never lets down but especially never in the second set. With dancing in “The Landlady” from Kehoe and DeAngelis, the full recreation is there, all the way down to the sudden intro of a ’97 “Ghost,” which is the jam of the night in both cases, overlooked for the “Mike’s” that follows, but still worthy of inspection.
Then again, that “Mike’s Song” is one of the odder things to catch at your first show, especially having no idea who this ‘Dude’ was they were suggesting to bring to the stage. The weirdness that Phish, and now Reprise, feed to fans amid an improv-vehicle is the launching point for the most furious part of this jam. By the time the weird returned in “Catapult,” wrapped up in a “Weekapaug Groove,” the set had flowed with the same ‘final show of the tour, all jams must go!’ intensity, wrapping up with a “Harry Hood” that saw the lights turned off, only a disco ball illuminating patrons and the stage.
photo by Pete Mason
The encore of “My Soul” paired with the sentimental “Squirming Coil” closed the night as Kehoe, DeAngelis and Tramontano walked off stage to cheers while Chasolen closed the song on piano, before departing the stage to cheers from a dedicated audience who hung on for every note of the show.
The only way this could have been more accurate (beyond the setbreak timing) is if an oddball opening act – ala J. Willis Pratt and Bionic, who opened for Phish this evening in 1997 – were to have performed ahead of Reprise.
Even though you can never go back and see your first show a second time, no matter how many times you relisten, Reprise offers the next best thing – four top notch musicians who do their homework, nail the songs and jams and master the interplay of Phish with self-assured panache.
Reprise plays Northampton, MA on December 19, 2024, recreating a classic show from the area. Tickets and more info here.
Setlist via Phish.net
Reprise – Lark Hall, Albany – Saturday, November 2, 2024 – recreating Saturday, December 13, 1997
Set 1: Ya Mar[1] > Axilla[2] > Theme From the Bottom, Ginseng Sullivan, Strange Design, Sample in a Jar, Vultures, Tube, Good Times Bad Times Set 2: NICU > Punch You in the Eye > Ghost > Mike’s Song[3] -> Llama, When the Circus Comes, Weekapaug Groove -> Catapult -> Weekapaug Groove, Harry Hood Encore: My Soul, The Squirming Coil [1] Unfinished. [2] Contained Axilla II ending. [3] Chants to “Bring in the Dude.”
Ya Mar was unfinished. Mikeâs Song included Foxy Lady quotes from Fish and some memorable vocal interplay from the band that included a chant to âBring in the Dude.â During Hood, Trey asked Chris Kuroda to turn off the lights for a Blackout Jam and the audience responded with a shower of green glowsticks. The opening act was J. Willis Pratt & We’re Bionic.
Wire Festival has announced the fourth installment of the world-class techno festival to take place at Knockdown Center from May 16-18, 2025.
In addition to its core programming, Wire also hosts community engagement events such as a series of Talks programmed in partnership with RA. Before the show, an industry meetup event will allow artists, organizers, booking agents, and label owners to connect with each other. Finally, the festival transforms the already-iconic venue with stunning, unique, and commissioned light installations. 2024’s collaboration with France’s Collectif Scale was the most ambitious work yet featured. Additional installations included pieces from NY’s Inner Light and Studio Gum Gum. The festival has grown steadily and organically, moving from strength to strength, creating a space for world-class techno and more amidst a thriving NY ecosystem.
The beloved, Ambient Stage will make a return in 2025. Introduced in 2023, the Ambient Stqage encourages artists to stretch into the unfamiliar. This year, Wire expanded from its initial two-night template to include a third-day program. Beginning right after the Saturday night rave, the Sunday program will run all the way from early morning through the evening.
Since 2022, Wire has platformed the most vital underground dance music, highlighting some of the genre’s most esteemed artists, freshest voices, and essential collectives. Previous standout acts include Jeff Mills, Surgeon (live), DJ Stingray 313, and showcases from Mala Junta, Bassiani, Herrensauna, and more. Wire Festival aims to highlight some of the city’s most adventurous artists while finding and sharing new talent.
Weekend passes are on sale now. Single day passes and lineup will be released in 2025. Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Brooklyn based rock unit The Giraffes have released their eighth album Cigarette, accompanied by an adventurously witty music video for the track “Million Year Old Song.”
Formed in 1996, The Giraffes have developed a unique sound self-described as “a hedonistic soundtrack”- it’s loud, dangerous, funny, complex, and unapologetically themselves. Mostly recognized for their trademark metal-tinged scuzz-rock, The Giraffes craft a unique blend of heavy rock, punk and post-punk, surf, and any array of other sounds that strike their fancy.
Comprised of lead singer Aaron Lazar, guitarist Damien Paris, drummer Andrew Totolos, and bassist Hannah Moorhead, the unit has made a name for themselves as one of the most unbridled acts to grace Brooklyn’s stages and beyond with their fierce musicality, fun-loving attitude, and dedicated fanbase.
In addition to their local draw, The Giraffes have toured alongside acts like Eagles of Death Metal, Local-H, The Vacation, and Skeleton Key. They’ve also performed alongside and in support of names including but not limited to Interpol, Fishbone, Yeah Yeah Yeah’s, and The Strokes– not to mention having scored various festival slots across the globe on the stages of SXSW, Bonnaroo, Amsterjam, and more.
Debuting with ‘Fransquilt’, The Giraffes have created quite the history for themselves. Now five years, seven albums, and countless achievements later, the band is back with their latest release, Cigarette.
Described as a “hypnotic hard-edged psychedelic rock score for our current age of decay and disappointment, fear and fury, idiocy and hope,” Cigarette delivers the same sharp grit and dexterity fans know and love while simultaneously taking new risks with excitingly adventurous composition and subject matter.
Recorded and engineered by Andrew Totolos, mixed by Grammy nominated producer Francisco Botero at the iconic Studio G Brooklyn and James Dellatacoma at Orange Music Sound Studio, Cigarette is a triumphant return for the band- especially as bassist Moorhead has joined the lineup in songwriting and backing vocals, allowing the group to settle the line-up and hone in on songwriting even further.
The final single released for Cigarette comes in the form of “Million Year Old Song,” which tackles both the nostalgia held by older generations for the relentless liveliness of being in your 20s and the dire state of today’s world in a fascinating blend of rebellious rock and roll nihilism- hence the phrase “a million year old song in twenty year old lungs.”
“I wanted to not be a total old man stuck looking back at my youth so I imagined someone my kid’s age hitting 20 and what the world will look like for them for the second verse. This protagonist has the power of youth but in a much more dire world. I believe that the animating spirit of “rock n roll” or whatever is that self-destructive imperative for fun at all costs. Interesting to think of what that will look like later on down the line. The song remains the same – just the world changes.”
– Aaron Lazar
Alongside “Million Year Old Song” came the release of its official music video, which pushes the song’s core concepts to the extreme in an over-the-top absurdist critique and deception of modern America. Between American flag get-ups, thrashes in pools (also red, white, and blue) filled with dollar bills and skeletons, and what can only be described as a cinema-worthy blood bath involving subs and giraffe masks, the music video created and directed by Damien Paris is an absolute must-watch.
The full seven-track album Cigarette by The Giraffes is out now, and the track list is below. To find out more about The Giraffes and keep up with their latest endeavors, check out their official website here.
TRACK LIST
1. Baby Pictures 2. Pipes 3. Limping Horse 4. Dead Bird 5. Million Year Old Song 6. The Shot 7. Lazarus
Justice Joseph Esposito has dismissed 5 out of 7 lawsuit claims against the historic Forest Hills Stadium in Queens.
Hozier – Forest Hills Stadium, July 2024 – photo by Molly Higgins
Entrenched in Queens’ music scene and culture for just over 100 years now, the Forest Hills Stadium is a cornerstone of New York City’s live music scene. The only outdoor venue of its kind and size in the area, Forest Hills was designed with the ideal audience experience in mind.
With optimized acoustics and no obstructed views, the 13,000 capacity Stadium was originally designed to house the U.S. Open tennis tournament. Forest Hills began booking concerts in the 1960s, and the rest is history.
The venue’s lengthy history isn’t without its bumps along the way, however. The arena has been a topic of long-standing debate for folks living in Forest Hill. The general sentiment shared by people living in close quarters to the venue is a desire to at minimum alter the space’s practices and at most close its doors for continued complaints of noise pollution and littering.
Frequent complaints include excessive trash found strewn about in public for days after each show and volumes so loud that the windows on houses as far as three blocks away from the Stadium shake during performances. These concerns were met with cooperation from Forest Hills Stadium, with rectifying policies ranging from employing cleaners on the street before, during, and after shows to hundreds of thousands of dollars being invested in noise mitigation and controlled amplification.
A lawsuit filed by the Forest Hills Garden Corporation against Forest Hills Stadium and its parent company West Side Tennis Club filed in 2023 nearly spelled the end of the venue. The lawsuit outlined a total of seven individual causes of action, including claims of contract violation between the tennis club and the FHGC, trespassing, zoning violations with unjust profit, and both public and private nuisance claims.
However, on Monday, October 21, Queens County Supreme Court Justice Joseph Esposito issued a motion to dismiss all but two of the motions raised. A major win for those working with the venue and lovers of live music in New York alike, the Stadium’s final few shows of their 2024 concert season will go on. It’s likely that the venue will return with a new calendar of events in the spring given the remaining lawsuits conclude.
While a massive success, Forest Hills Stadium isn’t out of the woods just yet. The final two claims remaining are that of private and public nuisance. Justice Esposito stated that the FHGC had a claim sufficient enough to survive the initial motion to dismiss, which now must be proven with further evidence and testimonial.
Attorney Akiva Shapiro, representing the Stadium, stated that the venue’s legal team is “confident that the remaining claims will also be dismissed.”
Sam Kogon has released his latest single “America”. The track arrives as a timely commentary on the current political landscape, just as the 2024 election season begins to heat up.
“America” was born during the tumultuous period of COVID-19 lockdowns and widespread protests, capturing the zeitgeist of a nation grappling with its identity and future. The song’s lyrics touch on various hot-button issues, from voting rights and social justice to healthcare and reparations, all wrapped in Kogon’s signature blend of catchy melodies and thought-provoking wordplay. This single is a precursor to whatâs next for Kogon, who recently completed recording a full album’s worth of material with Agnello this past spring.
This new body of work promises to build on the success of his previous releases, including his self-titled EP from 2022, which garnered critical acclaim and expanded his fanbase. Kogon has collaborated with notable artists throughout his career, including Al Jardine of The Beach Boys and Grammy Award nominee Patty Smyth. He also fronted the revived baroque pop group The Left Banke, known for their classic hit “Walk Away Renee.” These experiences have enriched Kogon’s musical palette, allowing him to blend influences from various genres into his own unique sound.
The track was co-produced by Jeff Berrall of the band Caveman and Zach Brewer, with Sam Kogon himself also taking on production duties. It features Kogon’s own vocals, guitar, and organ, alongside Graeme Gengras on piano and the rhythm section of Caveman providing bass and drums. The song was mixed by industry veteran John Agnello, whose credits include Dinosaur Jr. and Kurt Vile, adding a polished sheen to Kogon’s raw, emotive style.
With its timely release and politically charged lyrics, “America” is poised to resonate with listeners as they navigate the complex landscape of the upcoming election year. The chorus encapsulates the frustration and hope that many Americans are feeling: “You bought it, you broke it / How come nothing gets done right around here? / You built it, now fix it / We can’t wait another 4 more years.”
For more information on Sam Kogon’s music and to listen to his latest single, click here.
On Thursday, October 24th, The Magic Beans and Squeaky Feet graced the stage at Lark Hall in Albany, unofficially kicking off an exciting “Phish weekend” with a vibrant and inspired set that encapsulated their unique blend of funk, rock, and psychedelic sounds.
Performing to a rowdy crowd of enthusiastic music lovers, the show was a testament to the Beans’ growth as a band and their deep connection to the jam band community as a whole. Serving up a thrilling journey through their ever-expanding discography, the evening played out like a fairytale for those looking to dance the night away.
The Magic Beans kicked off a storybook weekend in Albany on 10/24/2024.
Kicking off the story proper with a lively opening performance was Squeaky Feet. Planting the seeds for the memorable night with their energetic, prog-rock inspired grooves and dynamic on-stage presence, the Denver, CO based band also brought along some local pride in the form of guitarist Colin Shore, who formerly played in Albany underground favorite Mister F. Joined on guitar by Greg King, bassist Jimmy Finnegan, drummer Kevin D’Angelo and keyboard player Brian Keller, Squeaky Feet commanded your attention from the very first note of “Hyrule Temple.”
Local Pride: Guitarist Colin Shore performing with Squeaky Feet in Albany 10/24/24.
Locked in and firing on all cylinders, the band really opened things up for exploration on a 16-minute version of “Never Break.” Displaying all kinds of technical skills and chops for days, the near 20 minute “Pantomime,” the opening track from the bands 2023 debut album Cause For Alarm, would reveal itself as the centerpiece of the set. Seamlessly shifting from patient, multilayered improvisation to segments of infectious trance fusion, to triumphant, soaring peak solos that made it all but impossible to stand still, Squeaky Feet played like a well-oiled machine that really listens to what each other is doing.
Paying homage to their biggest musical influence, one of the most memorable highlights was the bands lengthy tease of Umphrey’s McGee’s “Booth Love” sandwiched inside a sprawling, 20 minute set closing “Premonition.” Drawing in the listener, then peppering them with an explosion of sound and skill, Squeaky Feet showed exactly why they are an emerging force to be reckoned with.
Squeaky Feet opening for The Magic Beans at Lark Hall 10/24/24.
After a brief intermission, it was finally time for the Capital Region return of The Magic Beans. Steadily making a name for themselves on the national circuit since their formation in 2010, the Beans have long shown an appreciation for the Albany area, likely due to the fact bassist Chis Duffy grew up in nearby Guilderland. Along with Duffy, The Magic Beans are comprised of charismatic lead guitarist/vocalist Scott Hachey, keyboard wizard Casey Russell, and drummer Cody Wales.
Blasting off with a 16 minute “Kid Rocket” opening jam, The Magic Beans quickly established their intentions to take Lark Hall to the stratosphere. The laid back, synth-heavy flow of RevHall would seamlessly transition into a lengthy “Handshake or Hug” jam, showcasing the bands’ ability to weave together diverse influences into an engaging musical journey.
The Magic Beans performing at Lark Hall Albany on 10/24/2024.
From here, Scott Hachey would switch out his electric guitar for an acoustic one on the foot-stomping, country tinged “Footprints in the Rain,” before taking the audience on a jazz odyssey through “Do Your Thing.” With the energy in the room growing and the dance floor widening out, perhaps the most impressive sequences of music would come next as a funky 13-minute rendition of “Night Games” would beautifully segue into a standout version of “Dr. Bubbleman,” before returning to the last verse of “Night Games” to complete one hell of an epic jam-sandwich. The crowd was particularly energized during this part of the show, losing their minds to the pulsating rhythms and infectious grooves The Magic Beans have become known for.
Circle of Life: Magic Beans bassist Chris Duffy grew up in Guilderland, NY..
One of the most unexpected highlights of the night was a surprise cover of “Circle of Life” from The Lion King soundtrack. Channeling his inner Elton John, this song was particularly potent for bassist Chris Duffy who sang it. Growing up just one town away, the storybook night felt like a homecoming of sorts for the man with the mohawk, coming full circle after more than a decade of touring with the Beans. Infused with their signature flair, the beloved Disney classic was transformed into a danceable anthem that had the audience singing along to every word, bridging the gap between nostalgia and modern psychedelia.
Scott Hachey and Casey Russell performing with the Magic Beans in Albany, NY 10/24/24.
Keeping the positive, life affirming vibes alive, the Magic Beans would offer up the title track of their 2019 album “Off Leash” next, taking the crowd on a spirited, 16-minute funk-fueled ride and ultimately confirming that “This is the part where you feel good.” Saving up perhaps the grooviest tune of the night for last, a stellar version of “Handcuffs” achieved a massive climax that left fans with their jaws on the floor and fully appreciative of the Beans’ undeniable talents.
While it seemed like the show was just about over based on the venue’s weeknight curfew, the adoration for the band was real and sustained and could not be denied. Answering the call for more, The Magic Beans would return to the stage for one last flight to the cosmos with an otherworldly “Space Cadet” to complete the mission and send fans into Phish wondering how any band could top this fantastically fun and inspired performance. The perfect start to an unforgettable weekend in Albany.
Magic Beans | October 24, 2025 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Kid Rocket, Rev Hall > Handshake, Footprints, Do Your Thing, Night Games > Dr. Bubbleman > Night Games, Circle of Life, Off Leash, Handcuffs
Encore: Space Cadet
Squeaky Feet | October 24, 2025 | Lark Hall | Albany, NY
Setlist: Hyrule Temple, Never Break, Pantomime, Premonition
Dave Chappelle + Killer Mike will join together for ‘Still Talkin That SH*T!’ their 2024 national tour. The duo will hit The Theater at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, Nov. 21.
Comedic legend Dave Chappelle, the 2019 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, a five-time Emmy winner, and three-time Grammy winner for Best Comedy Album, is generally considered one of the greatest comedians of all time. For the first time, he will be joined by rapper, entrepreneur, and activist, Killer Mike. His most recent album MICHAEL, earned him three Grammy Awards, and BET’s Album of the Year award for its complex portrait of Black southern masculinity. Together with the Mighty Midnight Revival, they have announced their co-headlining 2024 tour. The seven-city cross-country tour will feature a fusion of music and comedy across a joint set that will stop at Madison Square Garden a week before Thanksgiving.
This event will be a phone-free experience. Upon arrival at the venue, all phones, smartwatches, and accessories will be secured in individual Yondr pouches, which will be unlocked at the end of the event. Guests will maintain possession of their devices at all times and can access them throughout the event only in designated Phone Use Areas within the venue.
On October 30, I had the privilege of attending a special screening at Ludlow House in NYC for Getting It Back: The Story of Cymande, an empowering documentary directed by Tim Mackenzie-Smith.
This award-winning director crafted a story that not only celebrates Cymande’s musical legacy but also underscores their impact on generations of artists, particularly within hip-hop and funk. Featuring interviews with music legends and influencers like Mark Ronson, DJ Maseo of De La Soul, Jazzie B from Soul II Soul, and Jim James of My Morning Jacket, the documentary brings together a chorus of voices who attest to Cymande’s enduring influence. Mackenzie-Smith’s film premiered at SXSW in 2022 and has since traveled widely, introducing new audiences to the “Cym-aissance,” as Total Film put it.
The screening was a powerful reminder of how Cymande’s fusion of funk, jazz, soul, and reggae created a sound with staying power. With breakout tracks like “Bra” and “Dove,” Cymande influenced the early hip-hop scene and continue to inspire artists across genres. After seeing their story celebrated in such depth, I was even more excited about the band’s latest news.
Following their resurgence, Cymande has announced Renascence, their first new album in decades, set to release on January 31, 2025. This album promises a return to their classic sound with a modern twist, reconnecting with the spirit of their 1974 record, Promised Heights. The first single, “Chasing An Empty Dream,” is already out, featuring their trademark grooving basslines and layers of global rhythm. This track captures the band’s socially conscious, hopeful message, as bassist Steve Scipio explained, “It’s a reflection on materialism and the hope for a future where we return to valuing essential, timeless principles.
Renascence boasts 11 tracks that weave together driving rhythms, saxophone wails, and stirring vocal harmonies. Songs like “Coltrane” and “How We Roll,” featuring Jazzie B, blend classic and contemporary sounds, while ballads like “Only One Way,” sung by Celeste, reveal the band’s softer, introspective side. Longtime members Patrick Patterson (guitar) and Scipio, along with Adrian Reid on keys and Raymond Simpson on vocals, are joined by a lineup of exceptional musicians, including Toni Kofi on sax and Kevin Davy on trumpet. Produced by Ben Baptie, this album serves as a crowning jewel in Cymande’s discography.
The album artwork, designed by Ghanaian-born, UK-based artist Koby Martin, visually represents Cymande’s legacy and rebirth. A vibrant sun rises behind a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and longevity, while a morphing dove and a pair of hands represent both the band’s loyal fanbase and new listeners alike. Martin’s colors echo the album’s diverse, layered sounds, promising an immersive experience for listeners.
Cymande will support Renascence with a U.S. tour, kicking off in New York at Irving Plaza on February 13, 2025, and hitting major cities including Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles. This tour marks a monumental return to the stage for the British funk pioneers, who will bring their unmistakable grooves to fans old and new.
Cymande’s long-awaited return represents not just a revival but a reclaiming of the legacy they laid decades ago. With Renascence, the band reaffirms their place in music history and offers a renewed soundtrack to inspire unity and resilience.
Cymande US Tour Dates: FEB 13 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza FEB 14 – Philadelphia, PA – Ardmore Music Hall FEB 15 – Washington DC – Howard Theatre FEB 18 – Chicago, IL – Metro FEB 19 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theatre FEB 21 – Denver, CO – Bluebird FEB 22 – Seattle, WA – Crocodile FEB 23 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater FEB 26 – San Francisco, CA – August Hall* FEB 28 – Los Angeles, CA – The Bellwether
Maverick Concerts in Woodstock has announced their new Green Room Project as part of a multi-step fundraising project to revitalize and retain the historic hall.
Maverick Concerts is the oldest ongoing summer chamber music festival in the U.S., attracting the best musicians in the world for 100 years. In addition to classical music, Maverick features jazz, contemporary, folk and world music. Maverick Family Saturdays offers free music, demonstrations and discovery for the whole family. The mainstay of the festival, which runs from June to September, is to be found in the Sunday chamber music concerts performed by renowned soloists and ensembles. Jazz and Contemporary Music presentations have been given more prominence in recent seasons.
Maverick Concerts is located in Hurley on the outskirts of Woodstock, in Ulster County. TZHe barn-like, rectangular building with its gambrel roof was built by hand as part of the Maverick Colony in 1916 by the utopian writer and philosopher Hervey White.
With a roof of wood shingles and a frame of heavy timber, to which the walls—sheaths of wide planks—are nailed directly, the wooden construction and luminous acoustics create an environment perfectly suited to the intimacy of live chamber music. Maverick Concerts, a multi-starred destination by the National Register of Historic Places since 1999, was awarded for Excellence in Historic Preservation by the Preservation League of New York State.
This fall, the iconic venue plans to harbor new initiative in the creation of the new Green Room. Maverick Concerts has been awarded $457,000 in New York State grants for two capital projects vital to retaining the historic hall as an artistic home. The Green Room project starts this fall and as a first step in this multi-step fundraising project we are focusing on raising the full $257,000 of the New York State Council on the Arts matching grant.
The Green Room Project is an exciting new addition to the already fantastic venue. With the newly added Green Room, the Maverick Concert Hall expands their possibilities and capacity. $146,000 has been raised so far and with help they can raise the remaining $111,000 to better utilize the building for the expansion of musical legacy.
For more information on Maverick Concerts, upcoming events, and the Green Room Project, click here.
