NYS Music 2024

Tag: New Album

  • Conway The Machine Releases Latest EP ‘Slant Face Killah’

    In the midst of a great run of releases, Conway The Machine remains as prolific as ever with the release of his latest EP, Slant Face Killah. This latest effort follows a continuous run of projects that solidify Conway as a solo force in hip hop. This time the Buffalo native has tabbed a host of legendary and contemporary figures for guest appearances and production.

    Notably, Slant Face Killah features Wu Tang members Raekwon and Method Man, along with Joey Bada$$, Stove God Cooks, Tech N9ne, Memphis native Key Glock and west coast stalwarts Ab-Soul and Larry June. Moreover, Slant Face Killah sees production from Swizz Beats, Cool & Dre, Don Cannon, Conductor Williams, Daringer and The Alchemist. All in all, Conway The Machine presents another diverse project testing his songwriting prowess and his adaptability with various forms and sounds of hip hop.

    Conway The Machine cover art for Slant Face Killah
    Slant Face Killah continue Conway The Machine’s prolific run of releases.

    Conway The Machine On The Rise

    However, since the release of 2022’s God Don’t Make Mistakes, commercial breakthroughs have become the norm for The Machine. In like manner, his success continued in 2023 in what was Conway’s most commercial and critically successful year to date. Notably, in May of 2023, Conway released his Drumwork debut Wont He Do It  and with it launched a worldwide tour. He returned with a ensemble label album in Conway The Machine Presents: Drumwork The Label and followed that with the Speshal Machinery (with frequent collaborator 38 Spesh), Palmero (with Wun Two) and Conductor Machine (with Conductor Williams), and most recently Hall & Nash 2 with Westside Gunn and produced by The Alchemist.

    Known for the quality and quantity of his output, Conway The Machine returns after a yearlong sabbatical in between solo projects. The 14-track project spanning 1 hour and 6 minutes will serve to remind fans of the rapper’s lyrical prowess, while solidifying his curation and songwriting, key attributes as he heads his label Drumwork.

  • Brooklyn’s Left Circles Releases Debut Album, “Nothing is One Thing” Along with Other Works

    Brooklyn-based artist Left Circles has released his debut LP titled, Nothing is One Thing on April 26. The LP contains 13 tracks, all with diverse sound from the skills of Brian Pluta and his accomplices.

    Nothing is One Thing, is not content to stay confined to one style. The hook-heavy album shifts through several modes of rock, from ‘90s lo-fi to British-pop to ‘50s folk. Left Circles is the solo project of Brooklyn-based musician Brian Pluta who is the live guitarist for Space Cadet.

    Nothing is One Thing starts out very interestingly. To me, the opening track “Over Her Range/She Told Me” has a very Foo Fighters or Pearl Jam feel. It has grungy riffs, alternative vocals, and that rugged, somber heaviness. It also sees multiple parts with soft, acoustic, touching tones.

    The next tune, “The Gashouse Gang is Here” is full of a youthful, anthem-like energy. It certainly gives me Misfits energy with its pop-alternative, quick-paced sound. Throughout many of songs on the LP, there is apparent 90s grunge inspiration as well as indie, soft-rock, and classic rock. Left Circles does not stick to a specific genre and shows the dynamic musicianship him and his band possesses.

    The album has great energy, range, and power. It boasts strong, catchy riffs, a dynamic voice, and intriguing themes and sound overall. Nothing is One Thing was mixed by Travis Harrison (Guided By Voices, Built to Spill) and features drums from Kellii Scott (Failure), as well as guest vocals from Matt Hock (Space Cadet, The Explosion). 

    Left Circles also recently released a new animated music video for their latest single “The Gashouse Gang Is Here.” The track is the second on the LP. The music video is animated by 30s cartoonist Ub Iwerks and fits perfectly over the track in every way from theme to the syncing of sound and motion.

    “I was running out of time, with no idea what video #2 would be. By the dumbest of luck, I stumbled upon this 1937 cartoon directed by Ub Iwerks, who also did ‘Steamboat Willie’ and all those early Mickey Mouse cartoons. Those folks were masters of animation/music synchronicity having been the ones who invented it. So it’s no wonder I was able to edit it to work with my straightforward 4/4 song. But the sync with Kellii’s drum fills, with what the lyrics are saying…that’s 100% chance. It’s like they were meant to go together. Art director Jon Cochran brought the illusion home with those amazing title cards.”

    Brian Pluta

    For more information on Left Circles and his debut LP Nothing is One Thing, click here. Stay up to date on upcoming releases and shows.

  • Benjamin Tod brings Inspiration to Essex Rochester

    On April 24, music fans filled the industrial looking Essex Rochester, as Benjamin Tod and Lost Dog Street Band serenaded the air with the blended sounds of bluegrass, country, and folk music. The band is on the front end of a 23-stop tour in support of their newest album, Survived.

    Lost Dog Street Band

    Walking into the venue, the smell of vapes and weed, the countless colors and patterns of flannel, and older Subarus with cargo racks let you know that the crowd was going to enjoy themselves and not just have a night out. Young and old alike, these fans were singing along all night long with every song. Of the few shows I have covered at this newer venue, this was easily the fullest I have seen it at the start of a show, and the fans were still packing in as the set went on.

    Starting of the night was the duo Keith and Sparrow Smith, The Resonant Rogues. Coming from the mountains of North Carolina, The Rogues bring some classic, rustic country sounds that match equally with the band they are touring with. A little Twitty, a little Cline, and whole lot of fun.

    Formed in 2013, Keith and Sparrow both brought songwriting experience to the table as they were avid travelers. One by hopping freight trains and the other while performing with a circus troupe. Regardless of their paths, they now are a team on and off the stage, and the connection has been perfect.

    Resonant Rogues setlist: Dusk and dawn, Deluge, Sand into pearls, Misery is my company, Slow burn, 93,500 miles, The Blackest Crow, What Makes Me Think, Leave the Path, Ridgelines, Closing in

    Resonant Rogues

    Hitting the stage around 9 was Benjamin Tod & Lost Dog Street Band. Like many musical artists, Tod has a story of a past. And like many before him, the past has defined who he was, who he is, and what does moving forward, such as making amazing music that tells stories.

    “Survived”, the title track of newest album, is a prime example. Lyrics that ask life’s burning questions, Tod reflects on how and why he got to where he is. Having gone through tumultuous times personally and professionally, he is able to produce a well thought out and complete album, with deep lyrics throughout.

    I carry some burdens too fragile to mold
    I wear them like diamonds though they’re worthless as stones

    As the show goes on, Tod and wife Ashley Mae playing the fiddle, serenade the crowd as they sing along, nearly getting drowned out. On Using Again, you could see and hear the first couple rows of fans belting out every word as loud as they could. Another poignant song, that seemingly speaks of Tod as he was trying his damndest to get and stay clean. Hard, deep thoughts that truly make you think and become grateful for life.

    Lost deep inside of my dirty old soul
    Some starry-eyed boy never taught self control
    The cost of my living was more than I planned
    So I held a needle like a gun in my hand

    Having broken up the Log Dog project at one point, Tod realized that was mistake and after recording a solo album, he rejuvenated the band in early 2023. With that, we have “Survived”, which was released on April 26, aptly named for Benjamin Tod as well as the Lost Dog Street Band weathering some tough storms.

    Setlist: Brighter Shade, Hubbardville Store, Lifetime of Work, Shooting Star, The Mountain, Using Again, Waiting around to Die, War Inside of Me, If You Leave Me Now, Lazy Moonshiner, September Doves, Wyoming, Survived

    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Lost Dog Street Band
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues
    Resonant Rogues

  • Hearing Aide: NYC-Based Indie Group Rookie Mistake Release Debut EP, “I Will Not Die in Upstate New York”

    NYC-based indie-folk group Rookie Mistake have released their debut EP I Will Not Die in Upstate New York on March 29. The album is full of intriguing sound and promising talent.

    I Will Not Die in Upstate New York

    Rookie Mistake is made up of Nick Fioravanti, Gianna Minerva, Justin Gambardella, and Ethan Brown. They were originally formed in May 2022 in college at SUNY Oneonta and are currently based in the NYC Metro. They’re excited to share their debut EP, I Will Not Die in Upstate New York after playing house shows and small clubs around New York State.

    The group is heavily swayed by artists from genres like folk, indie, alternative, and classic rock. You can hear similarities to groups like Joy Again, The Walters, The Lumineers, and Mumford and Sons. The group refuses to conform to a specific genre. They have elements of folk, indie, bluegrass, and glimpses of alternative.

    The opening track “I Will Not Die in Upstate New York” sets the tone of the EP with a heavy emphasis on acoustic folk, but still gripping the indie sound. It is a story of returning home, leaving the past behind, traveling far and wide and living life. The next track “Fortune Cookie” is quite laid back, but transforms into a heartfelt, hopeful and fast-paced tune. This track really shows the singer’s heavier vocals and the instrumental capabilities as more than just soft folk.

    When the song “Trampoline” plays, the band really starts to show their indie roots. They prove their talents are simply multi-dimensional. “Famous” and “I Love it Here” bring back those soft, folk elements and showcases that the band can play a range of sound and can make indie-folk really pop. The songs are filled with depth, both emotionally and instrumentally.

    To hear Rookie Mistake’s debut EP and to learn more about the band, click here.

  • Terre Roche Unveils Latest Album Inner Adult and Releases Single, “Fish Out of Water”

    Singer-songwriter Terre Roche of the legendary NYC sibling folk trio, The Roches has announced the release of album INNER ADULT. Along with this, Terre also dropped her single, “Fish Out of Water,” on April 10.

    Terre Roche

    Terre Roche has written and performed music across the country for over 50 years. Her colorful and celebrated music career refuses to let up as Roche dropped “Fish Out of Water” April 10. The upcoming album INNER ADULT sees Terre continue to add depth to her folk/rock library and will also be released as a limited-edition book featuring illustrations by Terre, song lyrics, photographs, and more.

    The album released is to be celebrated May 20 with a show at City Winery Loft in NYC.

    Terre Roche

    The single “Fish Out of Water” has a soothing, yet mesmerizing aura to it. This is a sound only the most talented artists can achieve. The theme of change, growth, moving on, is perfectly embodied by the soft and hopeful acoustic sound. Terre Roche’s vocals are somber yet sweet.

    Terre Roche proved that she still has the ear, the mind, and the talent to put out folk works like this no matter the decade. Longevity in an artist is paramount and Terre has it. The sounds lull you while the lyrics keep you thinking. The track is simple in sound but profound in writing. It is simply great.

    For more information on Terre Roche, her single, and upcoming album, click here.

  • Brooklyn-Based Collective The Means of Production Release First Single, “Silver Pools”

    The Means of Production is a Brooklyn-based collective of artists interested in an output of experimental jazz. The group released the single “Silver Pools” on April 11, and see the release of their debut LP in June.

    The Means of Production

    The Means of Production is a meeting point for six of Brooklyn’s most fearless, young musicians with musical backgrounds as divergent as you’ll find in any modern outfit. They are comprised of Matt Gibbs, Ben Pirani, Tre D’Ambrocia, Rafferty Swink, Pat Carr and Jay Mumford. Each of these artists have their own diverse, unique, and mind-expanding talents.

    Rafferty Swink was entrusted with the job of arranging these group improvised, spontaneous compositions. The result is a potent, genre-defying kaleidoscope of electric jazz, psych, and soul. The Means Of Production can be described as nothing less than the raw and adventurous sound of the current.

    The Means of Production

    “Silver Pools” by The Means of Production kind of slapped me in the face in the best way possible. The opening little diddly and soft drum kit fiddling followed by the burst of jazzy life took me for a ride. That old style organ, xylophone backing, indie-sounding guitar, smooth bass, and all the other intricate instruments combined to form some real soulful jazz.

    There are elements of several artists and eras here. It is clear off the bat that this is heavily influenced by 30s-40s jazz. Not only that but 60s-early 70s rock, blues, and even some modern indie twists are heard here. The Means of Production are certainly performing in the spirit of free-form music and creative lightning.

    The Means of Production
    Ben Pirani

    “Silver Pools” was released as a single, and also as the second track on the band’s upcoming self-titled LP. The LP titled The Means of Production is set to release June 14.

    The Means of Production Track Listing

    1. Welcome
    2. Silver Pools
    3. Provence Avanti
    4. In A Silent Jay
    5. Sertraline
    6. Positively 5th Street
    7. Sun, Moon, Wind, Earth
    8. (Di)stance
    9. Beware Of The Midnight Special
    10. Blank
    11. The Lone Square
    12. Well…

    Rafferty Swink

    To hear the bands recently released single, “Silver Pools” and to stay up to date on future releases, click here.

  • Pop-Rock Band Um Jennifer? Releases Debut EP “The Girl Class”

    NYC-based pop/indie-rock band Um Jennifer? released their debut EP titled, The Girl Class, released on April 5.

    The group’s debut extended play is chock full of charming, energetic, punk-tinged indie rock. Each song on the album is different than the last, with its own sound and charm. There is clear influence from The Cure, Eyedress, Sonic Youth, MGMT, and more. Much of their songs are reminiscent of love, sexuality, adventure, and youth.

    Elijah and Fig set out to pierce the soundscape with their sharp-witted, psyche-puncturing, and simply fun musical skill. The EP does exactly that. The Girl Class collection of songs is an ode to break ups, freak outs, and deep queer longing. Um Jennifer? utilizes their pop/indie/alternative sound to convey their dynamic range of song.

    Throughout The Girl Class EP, love is personified as something fantastic, gory, loud, needy, and needed. These songs were all written within the past year of the band’s life, and were the first songs they wrote together. These songs are the band’s attempt at measuring the immeasurable; at understanding themselves, each other, and the world around them.

    Um Jennifer? has conveyed their ideas and vibe as a band well on this EP. They have proven their ability to switch sound and still remain original and themselves. With a debut album like this, with punchy, catchy, emotional, and passionate tracks, the band catches attention and has an audience awaiting further release.

  • Dynamic Hip Hop Duo Gumbo Release New Album Along with Chuck D and Black Lives Matter Grassroots Merch Collab

    Dynamic hip hop duo Gumbo — consisting of Caro Adé and Danger — continue to fight the power with the release of their debut album, Stir The Pot. Moreover, the duo have joined forces with the iconic Chuck D of Public Enemy on behalf of Black Lives Matter Grassroots to create a unique blend of music and activism. Furthermore, this partnership, encapsulated by the mantra “art + cause = community,” aims to make a meaningful impact on social justice through the universal language of music & art.

    Cover art for Gumbo's debut album "Stir The Pot."
    Gumbo are keeping conscious hip hop alive with their debut album

    All in all, Gumbo are keen to keep conscious hip hop alive and their recruitment of Chuck D speaks to their values. After all the “Fight the Power” rapper has long used his music for purposes of social justice, unity and to spread uncomfortable truths. In light, Gumbo tabbed Chuck D for a collaboration on “All True” as the lead single for Stir The Pot.

    Gumbo’s New Merch

    Additionally, their social justice efforts have led them to collaborate with Black Lives Matter Grassroots and Chuck D to release a limited and exclusive merchandise collection during both celebrations for Black History Month and National Jazz Music Month (March/April). This exclusive collection is selling for $30 and will feature a specially designed t-shirt curated by renowned stylist Tony Magnetic and artwork by Tristan Childs.

    Gumbo exclusive merch collab with Black Lives Matter Grassroots
    Those who purchase the merchandise using the QR code will get exclusive access to “Stir The Pot.”

    Uniquely, those who purchase the merchandise using the QR Code will get immediate access to Stir The Pot. Creating an immersive experience for fans, connecting them directly to GUMBO’s groundbreaking music and their cause. Notably, a share of the proceeds from this exclusive merchandise release will be to support Black Lives Matter Grassroots. 

    We believe in the power of music to bring people together and amplify important messages. This partnership with Chuck D/Public Enemy and Black Lives Matter Grassroots is a testament to the transformative potential of art when combined with a meaningful cause.

    – Cado Adé and Danger

    Moreover, Gumbo, Chuck D, and a representative from Black Lives Matter Grassroots stopped by Sway’s Universe to discuss the latest social justice efforts and the reason behind their activism. This culminated in a riveting live performance of “All True” by Cado Adé and Danger where their passion for their cause could be seen first hand. Stir The Pot is available for streaming on all DSP’s.

  • Brendan James Releases New Single, “Feel Alive”

    NYC-based R&B singer/songwriter Brendan James has released a brand new single titled “Feel Alive,” from his upcoming album Focus.

    Brendan James is an alternative pop, soul, and R&B fusion singer and producer. James and his producer Stroobz Beats recently released their latest single “Feel Alive” from the upcoming album Focus. The track marks the artist’s fourth studio single.

    Brendan’s self-proclaimed identity as an “old soul” is epitomized by both his musical inspirations and his own body of work. From Earth, Wind, and Fire to Usher and Luciano Pavarotti, Brendan’s musical inclinations are brimming with generations of spirit and souls.

    Brendan James’ single “Feel Alive” has strong emotion tied in each note. It has elements of pop-R&B, alternative, and even gospel. One can argue there is something of an emo undertone here. The track’s layered vocals, powerful intonations, and flowing melody provide a real treat for the soul.

    James’ style is in every sense, dynamic. The track has multiple changes in melody and vocal style. The soundscape this track occupies is unique, yet reminiscent of those who came before him. Brendan James’ music speaks to a variety of people from hip hop and R&B enjoyers to pop and alt enjoyers as well. Simply put, this track starts strong and ends stronger.

    Make sure to stay up to date on the release of Brendan James’ upcoming album, Focus. For more information on the artist, visit his Spotify here.

  • Hearing Aide: The Folklorkestra’s “A Strange Day in June”

    NYC-based folk group The Folklorkestra are releasing a new unique and titillating album titled, A Strange Day in June on March 29.

    A Strange Day in June is an album that had me intrigued instantly. The sounds that emanate from this album are nothing short of mystical and diverse. Many of the tunes feature much mandolin, woodwind, and acoustic percussion.

    The opening track, “The Girl I Never Knew” consists of a kind of eastern melody coupled with a very Mediterranean sound. The usage of mandolin, shakers, accordion, and operatic vocals make for something real captivating.

    Each song on the album has a unique sound that almost entrances the listener. The second track, “My Cousin the Spy” has a sort of Latin-folk sound that starts off like ballroom music. It later evolves with its saxophone-heavy progression, with many backing instruments carrying the melody.

    A Strange Day in June
    John Kruth

    The Folkorkestra is led by John Kruth, who has been active in the music industry for decades. He’s worked with countless other notable names like Meat Puppets, Jim Belushi, Steve Buscemi, Allen Ginsberg, Laurie Anderson, and more.

    The group draws inspiration from various genres and sounds from around the world including American folk, jazz, chamber music, as well as eastern instruments, and European melodies. The group consists of versatile, multi-instrumentalists, Kathy Halvorson, Premik Tubbs, Kenny Margolis, Ray Peterson, and Rohin Khemani.

    A Strange Day in June

    The Folklorkestra’s recent album, A Strange Day in June is certainly one to check out. It is complete with unique, diverse, and intriguing sound. Each song has a different feel and tells a different story. Each song combines multiple sounds together and makes it something you’ve never heard before.

    The artisanship exhibited throughout the album is something to gaze at. There are miniscule sounds that inhabit every crevice of the songs. The songs are sonic portraits, displaying moving images via the music. There is a lot of character and charm from this album.

    To learn more about The Folklorkestra and their upcoming work, click here. Stay up to date on the release of A Strange Day in June, releasing March 29.