Rock group The FMs have announced the upcoming “Frankie Fest” music festival honoring the late Frankie Rex in Coney Island this May 11. The festival sees a stellar lineup of NYC queer bands and performers and marks the festival’s inaugural opening.
The event will also serve as the record release party for PINK + BLACK and features the first performance from The FMs in over four years – and the first-ever without Frankie. Frankie Fest highlights a range of cutting-edge, NYC-based queer performers showcasing indie rock, goth, riot grrrl, punk, metal, and more. Featured acts include Pink Velvet Witch, Jordan Fiction, Villains, Llynks, The FMs, Frida Kill, Miss Cherry Delight and more.
Their sophomore double album was completed the moment the pandemic started. It is now making its release after the tragic death of singer Frankie Rex in 2022. The material highlights the group’s love of analog synthesizers combined, ethereal guitars and takes a more emotionally dynamic turn. This contrasts their debut album spanning themes from sexual irreverence, the nature of dreams and human connection, to hope for the future of gender freedom.
The show begins May 11 in Coney Island. Doors for the show open at 4pm and music lasts until 10pm. The FMs will release PINK + BLACK on May 10.
To learn more about Frankie Fest and to purchase tickets, click here – to learn more about The FMs and to stay up to date on the group’s upcoming release, click here.
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) has announced it is accepting applications for the 2024 Student Scholarship Program. The program this year has expanded to include drama students. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 10, 2024.
LIMEHOF awards $1000 scholarships to provide funding for graduating high school students with interests in musical or drama careers. These scholarships will provide funding to eligible graduating high school students from Nassau, Suffolk, Brooklyn, Queens, or Kings Counties.
The LIMEHOF Education Committee will base selections on the completed application, and a 400â500-word essay on career goals. The selection will also require a letter of recommendation from an individual who can attest to the applicant’s commitment, and a high school transcript.
Eligible criteria to be met includes an upcoming graduation from Nassau, Suffolk, Queens or Brooklyn schools. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, accepted to full-time college, financial need, US citizenship, and interest in a career in music or drama.
Student scholarship applications deadline is Friday, May 10. For more information on the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Scholarship, and to view the application, click here.
Super Freak: The Rick James Story — the theatrical recounting of the life and times of legendary musician and Buffalo native Rick James — will be coming to Brooklyn‘s Kings Theatre for a limited performance from Friday, April 12 through Sunday, April 14. In light Super Freak: The Rick James Story delves deep into the tumultuous life and extraordinary talent of the legendary musician, exploring the highs and lows of his career against the backdrop of his unforgettable hits. In this case audiences will voyage on a musical extravaganza through the “Super Freak” singer’s groundbreaking music and the compelling narrative of his life, filled with passion, excess, and undeniable talent.
Theatrical Poster for on-stage biography of legendary musician Rick James
Created by renowned playwright and producer Je’Caryous Johnson along with Ty James the executive producer and daughter of the late Rick James, Super Freak makes its way to James’ home state of New York adding a multifaceted musical prodigy in his own right in Mint Condition’s Stokely Williams. In light, the Grammy-nominated vocalist, songwriter, and producer will step into the iconic role of Rick James, bringing to life the legendary singer’s electrifying persona and timeless music.
Additionally, Williams’ talent shone as the lead singer and drummer for R&B group Mint Condition. With his talent as a vocalist, songwriter, and producer making him a fitting addition to portray James in front over 3,000 fans at Kings Theatre, the largest of its kind in Brooklyn. Moreover, Ty James has shown nothing but confidence in Stokely Williams’ ability to carry the role.
I am so excited that we were able to cast such an amazing talented cast. I know playing my dad is stepping into some big shoes, but I am confident Stokley will kill it. My dad would be so proud.
– Ty James
All in all tickets for Super Freak: The Rick James story are on sale on the Kings Theatre’s official website, with tickets ranging from $69 to $112.
With his newest EP “look at me but through me” set to release on April 5, Brooklyn’s electronic sensation Bad Tuner is back with a bang.
Photo by Anna Koblish
With NPR Music comparing him to the legendary Daft Punk, it’s understandable why excitement for this release is high. The six tracks on the EP offer a different window into Bad Tuner‘s world. There is something for all fans of electronic music, ranging from glitchy hyper-pop flares to gritty and booming 90s Big Beat sounds, with samples from all over the world.
“Maybe so,” the second track, offers us a preview of Bad Tuner’s impressive abilities. The track is an instant hit on the dance floor thanks to its breakbeat drums, rhythmic piano riff, repeating bell lead, and a sampled Soukous Congolese vocal. Bad Tuner says, “I wanted a song that would evolve into absolute chaos towards the end. I tried a few different arrangements of the song, landing on this one.”
Bad Tuner is no stranger to success, having gained recognition from notable figures in the industry such as Pete Tong and making waves on BBCRadio1. With sold-out performances and tours with artists like Polo & Pan and TOKiMONSTA, he has earned his spot in the electronic music industry.
Keep an eye out for April 5 and preorder “look at me but through me.” In the meantime, crank “maybe so” and learn more about the world of Bad Tuner.
Bad Tuner’s “look at me but through me” Tracklist:
Brooklyn-based alternative/post-punk group Castle Black recently released their latest single titled, “Heart Can’t Feel.” The single is off of the band’s upcoming album, The Highway at Night.
Castle Black is an ever-evolving thunderstorm of sound on a backdrop of captivating hooks and edgy soundscapes. Castle Black draws elements from punk, post-punk, grunge, alternative and new-wave music. The band sees the release of their first full length album, The Highway at Night in June.
The single, “Heart Can’t Feel” is the second released single off the album. The group has released six EPs since 2015. Castle Black hopes to reach new heights with the release of their first full-length album.
“Heart Can’t Feel” begins with captivating chords, vocal tones, and immediate action. The song has strong influence from a band like Hole. The fierceness of the vocals, the upbeat yet grungy sound, and the song structure are very reminiscent of Hole and other alternative bands from that era.
The riffs throughout the song catch the listener right away and refuse to stay static. The track is certainly very post-punk in its vocals, grunge in its tone, alternative in its pace and instruments, with a bit of a new-wave aura to it. Castle Black does an excellent job here of crafting a catchy, punchy, and fun piece of music.
To give “Heart Can’t Feel” a listen and to learn more about the minds behind the music, click here.
Chyna Streetz loves the process. Through various life experiences she continues to learn and grow. Money comes and money goes but lost time on Earth could never be earned back. Abundantly, the hours in the studio and on tour continue to pay dividends for this NYC-based emcee.
Her latest body of work, From Hell to Chanel showcases just how far she has come since her first project in 2018. After experimenting with different sounds – Chyna now sets her sights on accomplishing feats according to her own timetable.
“Even if the wounds heal, the scars left still show.”
-Judas Kiss by Chyna Streetz & Tiona Deniece
Less worried about what others see fit for her – this artist formerly known as Chy the Empress embodies her lane in the underground East Coast hip-hop scene. Amazingly, strides from the likes of Westside Gunn and Rome Streetz have turned underground hip-hop damn-near mainstream. Label it however you wish – real rap is back on the map and Chyna Streetz pushes her pen to the forefront.
With conceptual storytelling and divine lyricism – everyone better recognize what Chyna Streetz means to hip-hop. From Hell to Chanel (entirely produced by 183rd( illuminates the struggles this woman went through. The determination to prove herself shines very brightly on this tape.
On Bernadine’s Rage she refers to herself as a, “Goddess in the likeness.” In the very next line she proclaims she is, “Tight she had to write this.” Therefore, these two lines together make for an excellent set of opening lines.
Right from the beginning of Bernadine’s Rage – she lets us know that she is a supreme being as those who have utmost confidence are recognized sooner than those who only half-step their way to the goal. Next, being ‘tight’ means she might have been upset she had to write this which portrays growth and shows that she will take any steps necessary to become the best version of herself.
New York is a Nationality
All credit due to the Empress and her efforts – the moment she transformed into Chyna Streetz drove her to become a different animal within the same beast. Spending time with her man Rome Streetz has propelled her lyricism, uplifted her stage presence and given her the bravery to use her past as a turning point for the future.
When Chyna was 17 she went away for robbery in the first degree. She served roughly six years altogether between Bayview Correctional Center and the ‘Staying Out Program’ in Manhattan. Hurricane Sandy ravaged much of Bayview Correctional Center and it is now being renovated into affordable housing.
“Rolled the dice on life and found out time cannot be bought.”
-Judas Kiss
Chyna preaches to live and maintain in the ways that work for you. Do not let outside influence or external gratification dictate the path you know you must walk. Evidently, within the core of every soul – you will find what direction you must choose. Now, take the steps to walk the road less traveled en route to fulfillment of your destiny.
Some ways in which Chyna found self-realization comes from internal strength and stepping outside of her comfort zone. Nonetheless, building confidence from within and surrounding herself with truly talented people have led her to become a difference-maker within the game.
Key Tracks: Matrimony, Sirens Lullaby, Judas Kiss
Stream her latest collection here and write the author on IG and let him know which one you’re rocking with the most.
The Ghost Club’s concert at Elsewhere, as part of “The King Whatever Tour,” was a riveting display of indie rock energy and resilience. Led by the enigmatic frontman Domenic Dunegan, the five-piece band delivered a performance that was as emotionally charged as it was musically compelling.
Despite facing a momentary setback when Domenic accidentally hit his head while standing up on the bar, he soldiered on with unwavering determination, embodying the band’s ethos of perseverance against the odds.
From the moment they took the stage, The Ghost Club commanded attention with their incisive songwriting and sharp commentary on themes of masculinity, self-reflection, and resilience. Hits like “Creature of the Shadows” and “I Feel Fine” had the crowd entranced, while live debuts of “It’s Your Call” and “I’m Sold” showcased the band’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.
A defining moment of the evening came during their cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” where Domenic’s electrifying stage presence and raw emotion electrified the audience. Despite his injury, he continued to deliver a mesmerizing performance, captivating the crowd with every lyric and melody.
As the night progressed, The Ghost Club treated fans to a string of live debuts, including the poignant “If I Fell (Don’t Wait Here for Me)” and the anthemic title track “King Whatever.” Closing out the set with the haunting ballad “Don’t Let Go,” Domenic and the band left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the indie rock scene.
Overall, The Ghost Club’s performance at Elsewhere was a testament to their resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to their craft. Despite facing challenges along the way, they delivered a show that was both powerful and unforgettable, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next performance.
Stay tuned for their upcoming album “King Whatever” set to release ahead of this summer!
Setlist: Creature of the Shadows, All I Know, It’s Your Call (Live Debut), I’m Sold (Live Debut), I Feel Fine, War Pigs (Black Sabbath cover), Sucker, Two Steps Ahead, If I Fell (Don’t Wait Here for Me) (Live Debut), Hate Me Too, King Whatever(Live Debut), Same Graves, Don’t Let Go
Bar Italia made their highly anticipated return to NYC with a cigarette-tinged concert at Warsaw in Brooklyn on March 15. Touring with their new album, The Twits, and making their way across the US to their Coachella debut, the band gave one of their best performances to date. The band entered the stage cast in warm, low-key lighting to an ecstatic crowd and filled the room with guitar buzz and imagery-filled lyrics.
The British shoegaze/post-punk trio, signed to Matador Records, includes Sam Fenton and Jezmi Fehmi of Double Virgo and singer-songwriter Nina Cristante. They formed in 2020 to instant recognition but stayed away from the press until late last year, even keeping their names hidden from fans. This garnered them a mysterious image that they are now attempting to shed. They also added a new drummer, Liam Toon, just days before the show.
The band has garnered a strong following in New York after making two trips from the UK last year. For an international band of their size, they have made a particular effort to play in NYC, and it has paid off for them, as Friday’s show was more than packed with eager fans. Now they’re off to continue across the US, eventually making stops on the West Coast, including two days at Coachella.
Opening for them was Scarlet Rae, a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter who did a great job of setting the tone for the show and got a lively reaction from the crowd.
It’s a feat how Bar Italia can get a crowd moving and cheering without almost any audience interaction. They uttered about 10 words between songs the entire show, but the audience was there for the music, and the music was electric. That’s not to say the band was closed off. They were full of smiles the whole night and didn’t hold back, showing a lot of emotion on stage.
The interaction between the trio’s vocals formed a texture that cannot be compared to any other act. Sam Fenton and Jezmi Fehmi’s distorted guitar riffs reverberated through the venue as they played “My Little Tony,” wallowing in their dramatic vocals before being lifted up by Nina Cristante and her tambourine in the chorus. The song’s lyrics connect deeply, focusing on imagery that conjures small, intimate scenes that convey displeasure for how our generation has learned to socialize.
They capped off the main set with “World’s Greatest Emoter,” a song title referencing an interview in which Liam Payne described actor Will Smith as the “world’s best emoter” after he slapped the comedian Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars. The room was pounding with this song, and it only got more intense as they faked the audience out, ending the song multiple times, only to drop right back in seconds later at twice the volume. This was a highlight for the band’s new drummer, Liam Toon, whose skilled playing helped balance the song’s instrumentation with the song’s dense vocals and guitar.
The crowd was feverish by the time the band said thank you and walked off stage, only to walk back on moments later unceremoniously. The band capitalized on this, playing three of their most popular songs. They capped the concert off with “Skylinny,” which had the entire crowd of 1,100 people chanting, “Run-a-runaway, Run-a-runaway.”
This was the kind of concert that made you stop for a minute after to take in your surroundings and breathe. Hopefully, Coachella brings good things for Bar Italia because we are sure NY would be happy to welcome them back whenever they feel like hopping the pond again.
Bar Italia – Warsaw, Brooklyn – March 15, 2024
Setlist: Friends, my little tony, calm down with me, Real house vibes (desperate house vibes), twist, Jelsy, Brush w Faith, harpee, Nurse!, punkt, glory hunter, my kiss era, Polly Amour, worlds greatest emoter
The Rock and Roll Playhouse released their anxiously awaited debut album titled, Friends Rock! on March 8. The album marks the first full-length body of work from the number one kids live concert series in the US.
The albumâs core cast of lovable characters -Â Mick, Stevie, Tina, Quinn, and Jerry – unite to re-imagine some of rock music’s greatest hits. Friends Rock! translates the classic choruses and melodies of rock’s most recognizable anthems into age-appropriate singalongs for your little ones.
Parents and kids alike can enjoy the fun spin on what Rock and Roll Playhouse brings to the stage. Queen’s “You’re My Best Friend,” the Beatles’ “We Can Work it Out” are among the songs reimagined. Along with these, Rock and Roll Playhouse boasts original tunes like “The Rock and Roll Playhouse Anthem” and more.
Simply put, Friends Rock! is fun to listen to. The classics are always great, and the kid-like style they are performed in is certainly something families love, and kids adore. The song choices for Friends Rock! is perfect the way they uplift. Every song is about the power of friendship and love. These are themes you love to see in children’s music.
The Rock and Roll Playhouse continues to book family-concerts in the countryâs most legendary rock clubs. A variety of live shows notably spans the music of Billy Joel, Grateful Dead, The Beatles, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, and Taylor Swift, to name a few.
The Playhouse has also announced their tour across the country which began March 9. The Rock and Roll Playhouse sees dates into June, with a few stops in New York State. Brooklyn, Port Chester and Long Island sees several visits from the Playhouse.
The Rock and Roll Playhouse Tour Dates:
3/9 Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater
3/9 Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
3/10 Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
3/10 Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
3/10 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
3/16 Evanston, IL @ SPACE
3/16 Port Chester, NY @ Garciaâs at The Capitol Theatre
3/17 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
3/17 S. Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground Ballroom
3/17 Portland, ME @ Portland House of Music
3/17 Keene, NH @ Colonial Performing Arts Center
3/23 Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
3/23 Cincinnati, OH @ Ludlow Garage
3/23 Ardmore, PA @ Ardmore Music Hall
3/24 Chicago, IL @ Thalia Hall
3/24 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
3/24 Austin, TX @ Mohawk
3/24 Concord, NH @ BNH Stage
3/30 San Diego, CA @ Music Box
3/30 Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom
3/30 Port Chester, NY @ Garciaâs at The Capitol Theatre
3/30 Philadelphia, PA @ Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
3/30 Wantagh, NY @ Mulcahy’s
3/31 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/7 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/7 Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
4/7 Chicago, IL @ Thalia Hall
4/13 Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater
4/13 Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall Ballroom
4/14 S. Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground Ballroom
4/14 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/14 Austin, TX @ Mohawk
4/14 Ardmore, PA @ Ardmore Music Hall
4/20 Wantagh, NY @ Mulcahy’s
4/20 Athens, GA @ Touch of Brews
4/20 Port Chester, NY @ Garciaâs at The Capitol Theatre
4/21 Concord, NH @ BNH Stage
4/21 Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
4/21 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/27 Cincinnati, OH @ Ludlow Garage
4/28 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
4/28 Nashville, TN @ The Basement East
5/5 Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall Ballroom
5/11 Port Chester, NY @ Garciaâs at The Capitol Theatre
5/11 Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room
5/25 Vail Village, CO @ SpringFree Bluegrass Festival
5/26 Vail Village, CO @ SpringFree Bluegrass Festival
6/16 Philadelphia, PA @ Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
To purchase tickets to upcoming shows, and to learn more about The Rock and Roll Playhouse and Friends Rock! click here.
Rock icon Sting of The Police has announced an upcoming North American tour beginning this September. The “Sting 3.0” tour sees four stops in New York including three shows in Brooklyn and two in Port Chester.
Sting will perform the most electrifying hits from his timeless discography for multiple-night stints in some of the most legendary theatres across North America. The upcoming Sting 3.0 tour will play three shows at the Brooklyn Paramount and one show at The Capitol Theatre.
Sting will perform selections from his vast and diverse catalogue accompanied by virtuoso guitarist Dominic Miller. Also accompanying Sting is Chris Maas of Mumford and Sons. The Sting 3.0 tour will begin on September 17 in Detroit and wrap up on November 13 in Los Angeles.
Members of Sting’s Fan Club will have the opportunity to access a special pre-sale by visiting sting.com, starting on Monday, March 11. The general on sale will begin on Friday, March 15 at 10 am at sting.com.
“STING 3.0” TOUR ITINERARY
Tue. Sept. 17 Detroit, MI Fillmore Detroit
Wed. Sept. 18 Detroit, MI Fillmore Detroit
Fri. Sept. 20 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
Sat. Sept. 21 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
Mon. Sept. 30 Philadelphia, PA The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark
Tue. Oct. 01 Philadelphia, PA The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark
Fri. Oct. 04 Boston, MA MGM Music Hall @ Fenway Park
Mon. Oct. 07 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount
Wed. Oct. 09 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount
Thu. Oct. 10 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount
Sat. Oct. 12 Port Chester, NY The Capitol Theatre
Sun. Oct. 13 Port Chester, NY The Capitol Theatre
Tue. Oct. 15 Washington, DC MGM National Harbor
Sun. Oct. 20 Miami, FL Fillmore Miami Beach
Tue. Oct. 22 Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
