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Jukebox – Music News Cuts – 5/2

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Jukebox.

Peter Criss

KISS drummer Peter Criss has a new rock album out, the first since 2007, when he put out One for All.

Peter Criss announced it to Rolling Stone, “I want to let the Kiss Army and all my rock fans know that my new ‘rock’ album will be coming out this fall,” he said. “I’ve got some really great players on it: Michael McLaughlin, John 5 on lead and rhythm guitar, Billy Sheehan, Piggy D [Matt Montgomery] on bass, and Paul Shaffer on B3 and piano. I am on vocals, drums and percussion. I also have great backup singers, like Dennis and Sharron Collins and Cathryn Manning from the Cat 5 Band.”

It’s been a good time for Peter Criss. “I had an absolute blast doing this album, and everyone was so much fun to work with — they were just amazing,” he said.

Circle Jerks

Circle Jerks are back. They have begun outlines of two new songs, put together in the studio of Rancid’s Tim Armstrong. Singer Keith Morris had this to say to SPIN. “We’ve gotta put out a fuckin’ ripper that just blazes your ears.”

This will be the first attempt after 2010’s acrimonious failed attempt. The band had two weekends at Coachella recently, where they put on some of their best performances.

“What I need to stress upon them is we’ve gotta come out like our lives fucking depend on this,” Morris says, also to SPIN. “We’ve got to come out like we’re the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, and the Green Berets.”

He said later, “If we’re just gonna dilly-dally around and come off like a bunch of old guys playing fast music, that doesn’t work. We gotta go back like we’re fuckin’ teenagers because we’re competing with a bunch of young dudes and young gals. And we just have to rip people’s faces off.”

Bruce Dickinson

Bruce Dickinson is going on a tour. The Mandrake Project Live 2025 North American tour begins in Anaheim, CA House of Blues August 22nd and covers New York, LA, Texas, Florida, and Canada, with a stop in Brazil.

Blabbermouth spoke to Dickinson about the tour. “Yeah, it was great.” He said. “Honestly, the reception was great. The reaction to the band when we toured all through Europe [last year] was fantastic. Obviously, we just did two or three shows here in Southern California [in April 2024] just to kind of warm things up before we went down to Brazil… But, yeah, it was brilliant. And people got it. I mean, not everybody is gonna get everything you do — it’s not compulsory — but I thought it was a really good, varied album. It was heavy, but it was emotional and stuff. So it was really good. And it worked really well live.”

Brick by Brick “Collapse” CD Release – Empire Live – April 26th

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Brick by Brick

Brick by Brick “Collapse” CD Release – Empire Live – April 26th. Photography by Jake Fox.

 

 

More from Jake Fox…

Chris Sanders – an Xperience Interview

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Chris Sanders

Chris Sanders – an Xperience Interview – by Liam Sweeny.

RRX: You started seriously playing guitar and singing when you were 49. Most people start off in their teens or twenties. You did play when you were young, but you kind of dropped it. What made you pick music back up at 49?

CS: I picked up a guitar for the first time in high school in Waynesboro, PA. My best friend back then was Terry Kerns, and he was a talented guitar player. He gave me my first guitar and taught me how to play the riff to the Scorpions’ “Rock You Like A Hurricane.” All I ever really played were metal riffs like that. I never took the time to learn to actually play, so I’m just a rhythm guitarist. I feel I’m just adequate enough to only rarely embarrass myself on stage!
Terry is no longer with us, but I like to think that, finally, part of his legacy continues to live on in me and continues into the people I inspire.
I joined the Army right out of high school, and long story short, during my time in the Army and for years beyond, I played off and on, but mostly off.
Then in 2018, I picked up the guitar again. I bought myself my first acoustic guitar, and listening to country music, I heard the song “Beautiful Crazy” by Luke Combs, and I decided I wanted to learn how to play it. So I practiced playing it, and for some reason, I started trying to sing it while playing the guitar. My entire life, I had never tried to actually sing. I would tell you that I can’t sing, much less sing and play the guitar to this song, yet here I was.
So I started recording myself. I’d play the song a bunch of times and then record it. I made 17 recordings before comparing the first and seventeenth, and the difference was huge. So I took the recording to a friend of mine, Adam Reider (another local musician), and asked him if he would listen and give me his opinion. He did so and told me, “Well, you’re no Freddie Mercury, but your voice has a good tone, and you have good pitch.” I can’t find those recordings anymore. A lot has happened since 2018, but that was the push that kept me going and saw me head to my first open mic at the Rustic Barn in May 2018.

RRX: You may have started playing late, but I assume you’ve been listening your whole life. Do you see your music differently, coming from a more “grown up” construction? Do you feel you have a deeper well to draw from now?

CS: Yes, for sure. I was your typical ’80s metalhead in my teens. I’d say, “My holy trinity is Ozzy, Priest, and Maiden!” They’re still my favorites, but time has certainly broadened my tastes. And I keep finding – if not inspiration – then more energy to keep going, with every artist and performance I experience. Jamey Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Zakk Wylde, Metallica, Sirsy, Rob Ruark (formerly of Whiskey Highway and now performing in Nashville), Skeeter Creek, and so many more are all recent influences on every aspect of what I am doing. Is any of it “grown up”? I have no idea, but it has certainly evolved, and continues to evolve. If change is growth, then I suppose I’m growing quickly indeed.

RRX: You won “Favorite Country Artist” in the Listen Up 2025 Awards. Your acceptance speech was short, but very powerful. How was that moment for you? And before and after; that whole day?

CS: Holy crap! Headed to the show, I was talking to my girlfriend Jessica, and was pretty sure I was going to celebrate the win of one of my friends. They have the social media followers, the full bands backing them, the networks that come from all that, so I was not at all thinking I would win.
I was not prepared to hear my name, and it took me a moment to really process it.
So I had no speech, and I don’t know about anyone else, but there’s a huge difference between performing and singing behind a guitar, and actual public speaking. My mind went absolutely blank! When I finished, I couldn’t even remember what I said, and had to watch a video of it after! Apologies to Rob Smittix for almost bowling him over with the hug!
Everyone was so kind to me, assuring me that the speech was great, so that was great to hear. I felt like I was taking too long, and as soon as I was walking away, worried that I didn’t say enough, or thank enough people, because that is a MASSIVE list of people!
I was, and am, so grateful and humbled that I was nominated, as I was in very talented and deserving company. How I, of all people, was one of four nominations … well, thank you to every single person who submitted my name as your nomination, and for every vote everyone cast, regardless of who it was for.
Hanging at the after party was such a good time. Mainly because it’s so rare that so many of my friends are all in the same place! Everyone was so congratulatory, and it was so overwhelming, but in a very positive way. I just tried to hold on to that moment for as long as I could. I never thought that I would be this person, with these experiences.
I’m grateful and lucky. I felt that way the day of the show, and I still feel that way now, weeks later.

RRX: Country is a very “rootsy” music. It calls out against the clusterf*ck of the high-tech times we live in; kind of kicks out the extraneous stuff. As we get more high-tech, more overrun by everything, how do you think the genre will hold up? What does it offer in an AI world?

CS: The genre questions always give me such angst. It’s all so very subjective, right? My song “Ain’t the Life” … what genre is that? I didn’t write it as anything except what it is, and I’ve been told it’s country, rock, folk, and Americana.
So I can’t even predict what genre my songs are, and you want me to wax prophetic on the country genre specifically? Oof! Ok let’s see …
A lot of the newer country songs have elements of pop and hip hop. Some country fans are so put off by it, to them it’s not country, while others embrace it. There’s no arguing that Shaboozey has hit a nerve, and there are country artists like Jamey Johnson, Tyler Childers, and Cody Jinks out there putting out incredible, more “traditional” country music.
So, for the future as far as I can see, the genre will always hold up. How long before we hear some country electronica, or some other combination? The old guard will hate it, but many will like it, and the genre will continue to evolve.

RRX: I read on your bio about you and your bass player, Eric Roberts, getting together for basement jams, and it hit home because the greatest times of my life were spent in a basement jamming with people. Do you have any fun tales about the ubiquitous basement jam?

CS: I haven’t been doing this a lot to have any real fun tales, beyond the fact that every jam and band practice we have is such a good time. We all look forward to Monday night!
I’ve managed to put together a pretty solid space in my basement. Jessica convinced me to pick up a used drum kit, I picked up a nice digital mixer, and I have it all wired up so everyone can just show up, plug in, and go!
The most incredible thing is that I found three other people who have listened to my original songs, and want to be a part of “Chris Sanders and the Better Days” band. They have taken my songs, and added so much depth and feel to them. My lead guitar player, Brian Clayton, is a wizard.

Everyone needs to come to Empire Underground on May 17 and see us play! Tickets are only $20!

Photo by Stephanie K. Bartik.

 

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

Capping Hussein and Pop Punk – The Weird Side of the Internet

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Capping Hussein and Pop Punk

Capping Hussein and Pop Punk – The Weird Side of the Internet – by Liam Sweeny.

Any famous musician has a basket full of stories that you would never possibly believe are true but they are. Blink-182 bass player Mark Hoppus has a doozy. Would you believe he helped the U.S. Army capture Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003? He certainly does. Apparently, before performing on the U.S.S. Nimitz, Hoppus caught the ear of a Navy Admiral on his way to a meetup with the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He told him his plan of flying drones over Iraq and waiting for Hussein to put out another video. They would be able to triangulate his position.

Soon after, Hussein was caught in a crevice under Baghdad.

Now is it possible that they went with the “Blink-182 Plan”? I’m going to go ahead and say yes. Simply because Blink-182 can claim it, because there’s no way that the military is going to admit that it wasn’t their idea. C’mon, it was their biggest win in that whole year.

But music and the government have always intersected, as we saw with Elvis Presley in working for the DEA, and Elvis after he died working for the government tracking down cryptid.

But, to be more specific in this prognostication. Said to the Admiral; “Sir, what about having drones fly all over the region in carpeting patterns, broadcasting time codes above the level of human hearing but at the level that a video recording would catch it.”

He went on: “Then, the next time he releases one of his videos, you can listen to it, pull the ultrasonic data, and triangulate the drones you have flying all over.” Hoppus remembered the admiral was “genuinely taken aback” by his plan, saying he could pitch it to the Chiefs of Staff.

Hoppus wrote: “Four months later, Saddam was located and captured in Iraq. So, you’re welcome everyone.”

 

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

Leslie Barkman, Jody Brenenstuhl,and Eileen Markland at Lark Street Tavern

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Leslie Barkman
Leslie Barkman, Jody Brenenstuhl and Eileen Markland got together for some songs at Lark St. Tavern on April 22. Photography by Timothy Reidy.

Martin Barre – Cohoes Music Hall – April 21st.

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Martin Barre
Martin Barre played with a trio at Cohoes Music Hall on April 21st. He played a few Jethro Tull tunes, and his own songs. Photography by Timothy Reidy.

Start Making Sense – Talking Heads Tribute – Cohoes Music Hall

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Start Making Sense

The Talking Heads tribute band “Stop Making Sense” performed at Cohoes Music Hall on Saturday, April 26th. Photography by Stephanie J. Bartik.

 

 

More from Stephanie J. Bartik…

Scott Womer – Song City [Interview]

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Scott Womer - Song City

RRX: Tell me a little bit about Song City. The five ‘w’s, but more what makes it different than other music venues?

SW: In 1995, I moved from Albany to Nashville, in hopes of getting more music opportunities. The greatest thing I learned in Nashville was the power of songwriting. Beyond techniques, abilities, and trends, the song is what changes lives. Much of this lesson happened at a venue called The Bluebird Cafe. A staple in Nashville, the Bluebird featured weekly showcases, featuring 4 local songwriters, known for their writing of songs by all our favorite country stars. This is also the venue where artists such as Taylor Swift and Keith Urban were discovered. My disappointment with The Bluebird, at that point in their history, was that they were a single-genre showcase. Not only does that lack variety, more importantly, it limits the audience’s exposure to different genres of songwriting.

Years later, when I moved back to Troy NY, and was so energized by the talent and variety of the local music scene, I felt compelled to do whatever I could to help it grow. After writing and recording a project under the name Fenton Hardy during Covid, I realized how important it is to be part of an artistic city. Community is at the heart of every effective movement. So, I took what I had experienced at the Bluebird, and expanded it to include all genres. Some of our greatest writers are hip hop artists, jazz artists, alternative and avant-garde artists, and they deserve a place at the table. This not only creates respect for all styles of songwriting, but expands the audience’s experience and musical taste.

This showcase on Tuesday, May 13, is our Season 3 Finale. We have currently had over 90 local artists featured over the past 3 years! It’s held at an event space called The Waiting Room, off Franklin Alley, in Troy.

RRX: You mentioned to me that you’re putting together your season finale on May 13th. What can people expect when they show up? And how do you put together a finale that tops an ordinary song circle?

SW: This is our third Season Finale show, and it’s always an exciting time to bring back artists that were favorites from past shows, as well as newer artists that we find fresh and exciting! Both Reese and the Faeries have played Song City before, and we can’t wait experience them again, and hear new songs! Eric-Jon Tasker, and Delaney Hafener of The Belle Curves, are incredible artists, and we can’t wait to hear their songs and the stories behind them! We will also feature amazing food, baked goods, and drinks from Troy’s own O’Malley’s Oven!

RRX: Song City is in downtown Troy, a city which over the years has really become a music scene in and of itself. What do you think it is about Troy that draws so much talent?

SW: The beauty of Troy is in its diversity. On any given evening, you can find local concerts from every genre, in small coffee shops, midsize clubs, and beautiful concert halls. There is a place for everyone in Troy. And there is an openness, from both the performers and the audience, to be exposed to new and diverse art. Another strength of Troy’s music scene is the desire amongst artists to collaborate and support each other. It truly is a community.

RRX: You obviously can’t play favorites, but you must have moments that blew your mind. Can you describe one of those moments, especially one early on that told you Song City was going to make it?

SW: One of the most exciting and refreshing parts of a Song City showcase, is hearing the stories behind the songs , and performances broken down to their barest form, especially with genres that are normally built on huge production. This has especially happened in genres like hip-hop. It has been so refreshing to hear artists like Ohzhe, Aila Chiar, Shiloh The Messenger, JB!! aka Dirty Moses, and Amani O+, reimagine their music and performances to fit into this type of experience. It not only makes it more attainable to our varied audiences, but also challenges the artist to rethink how their songs can be arranged and performed.

RRX: What would you like people to know before coming to Song City? How is parking? Eats? Any rules aside from the general rules of a venue?

SW: Song City is held in an event space in Troy called The Waiting Room. The entrance is off Franklin Alley, between Broadway and River Street. Look for Song City signs and the beautiful white lights of Franklin Alley.  There are multiple parking lots within two blocks of the venue, as well as free street parking. We would strongly encourage people to come early and experience food and drink from the variety of restaurants and bars in this neighborhood. The doors will open at 7 o’clock with food and drink available on site, as well as merchandise from the performing artists. We expect the show to sell out, so we encourage people to go to our website at www.songcitytroy.com, and buy tickets in advance. They are on sale now. We will also have tickets available at the door, if we aren’t already sold out.

 

Playhouse Stage Company to Extend Management over Cohoes Music Hall

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Playhouse Stage Company

Cohoes, N.Y. (May 1, 2025) – Playhouse Stage Company announced today that it has reached an agreement with the City of Cohoes to extend its management of the historic Cohoes Music Hall into the foreseeable future. Following a successful initial five-year management term, the City has approved a new fifteen-year extension, ensuring that Playhouse Stage will continue overseeing the operations, programming, and stewardship of the beloved Spindle City venue through at least 2040. At their April 22 meeting, the Cohoes Common Council voted unanimously to authorize Mayor Bill Keeler’s administration to execute the fifteen-year contract extension proposed by the Playhouse.

Since assuming management in 2019, Playhouse Stage Company has significantly expanded the Music Hall’s offerings, presenting a wide range of high-quality theatrical productions, concerts, school-time shows, stand-up comedy, and special events. Under the Playhouse’s leadership, the venue has seen an increase of nearly double the events presented annually, achieved notable growth in attendance, seen improvements to its facilities, and has fostered greater community engagement. The Playhouse also operates the Playhouse Stage Studios rehearsal and arts education space just two blocks from Cohoes Music Hall on Remsen Street.

“We are deeply honored that Mayor Keeler and the Cohoes Common Council have confidence in our vision and stewardship of this extraordinary space,” said Owen Smith, Producing Artistic Director of Playhouse Stage Company. “Cohoes Music Hall is a historic gem, and we are thrilled to continue bringing world-class performances and vibrant arts experiences to Capital Region audiences here for many years to come. We’re just getting started.”

Cohoes Mayor Bill Keeler praised the partnership, saying, “Playhouse Stage Company has been an asset to Cohoes, breathing new life into the Music Hall to make our city a cultural destination, all the while saving significant taxpayer dollars compared to past Hall management agreements. They achieved exactly what they promised when we signed our initial agreement five years ago, and we are excited to see what the next fifteen years will bring under their leadership.”

Built in 1874, the Cohoes Music Hall is the fourth-oldest operating music hall in the United States and remains a cornerstone of Cohoes’ downtown revitalization efforts. Playhouse Stage Company’s 37th Season of musical theatre continues this summer with three productions at Cohoes Music Hall: the premiere of the new musical The Waiting, from June 12-15; the classic Disney’s The Little Mermaid from July 22 through August 17; and the youth adaptation of the modern Disney hit, Moana Jr. from August 21-24. The Playhouse will also, as always, present a free outdoor summer musical with Oklahoma! playing at Albany’s Park Playhouse in Washington Park from July 1-26, with an encore weekend at Guilderland Performing Arts Center in Tawasentha Park from July 30 through August 2.

For more information about Playhouse Stage Company and upcoming events at Cohoes Music Hall, visit www.thecohoesmusichall.org or www.playhousestage.org.

Whassup in the 518 5/2 – 5/4

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Whassup in the 518

Whassup in the 518

Friday, May 2nd

Shane Gillis Live, MVP Arena, Albany, 8pm

May 2 | 2025 8:00PM | Doors 6:30PM

Clue, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Orleans, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs

Platinum hit-makers “Orleans” are celebrating 50+ years of live performances!

Known for their iconic hits “Still The One,” “Dance With Me,” and “Love Takes Time,” Orleans continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Their music, praised for its timeless harmonies and instrumental brilliance, has stood the test of time with continuous airplay on Classic Rock radio and streaming platforms.

Crobot, Empire Underground, Albany, 7:30pm

Sweet Baby James – #1 James Taylor Tribute, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Don’t miss America’s #1 James Taylor tribute, as singer-songwriter Bill Griese brings his acclaimed Sweet Baby James show to town. Not your typical tribute band fare, Griese delights audiences using only his uncanny Taylor-like vocals & guitar playing, and a uniquely down-to-earth personality. No impersonations or theatrics; just the great music of JT.

“The next best thing to James,” “his voice is spot on,” “close my eyes and it’s JT,” “I don’t like tributes but I LOVED this show,” “James would be proud,” “amazing guitar playing,” “everything he does honors JT” (from 500+ 5-star reviews). Come hear favorites like Fire and Rain, You’ve Got a Friend, Shower the People, How Sweet It Is, and Steamroller, as well as hidden gems and much more. Get your tickets today!

The Bear Bones Project, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm-11pm

Gypsy Jam, blend of R & B, Jazz, and traditional multi-dimensional collaboration will take you on a heartfelt musical journey.

Mike McMann & Bob Buckley Duo at The Eleven, Albany, 6pm-8pm

Mike McMann is a native of the Capital Region of NY currently residing on the NY/MA border in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. From classic rock to southern rock to bluegrass, roots music to acoustic, instrumental – Mike has a wide range of styles, influenced by Doc Watson, Tony RIce, Mark Knopfler, Jerry Garcia, Jeff Beck and others. He has played guitar in area bands for thirty years, including Euphoria, The Tropical Hotdogs,the Kenny Gwynn Band, the Kim Buckley Band, The Doornails, The Nellies and of course, the Mike McMann Band. He has shared the stage with Tony Markelis, Pete Vumbaco, Kevin Maul, Dale Haskell, the Sun Mountain Fiddler – Dick Solberg, Luke McNamee, Marty Satalino, Rick Lipe, Peter Bearup, Gordon Gaines, Evan Kremin and more. See the More Info page for an update on the bands Mike is currently booking gigs with for 2021. And of course – all gigs are subject to change – call ahead to confirm with the venues.

The Steel Wheels w/s/g Jack Broadbent, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm-11:30pm

The Steel Wheels have long been at home in the creative space between tradition and innovation, informed by the familiar sounds of the Virginia mountains where the band was formed, but always moving forward with insightful lyrics and an evolving sound. In 2005, Jay Lapp (vocals, guitars, mandolin) and Eric Brubaker (vocals, fiddle) joined lead singer Trent Wagler (guitar, banjo) in forming the band as a vehicle for Wagler’s songwriting. They released several albums under Wagler’s moniker, before officially adopting the The Steel Wheels name with the 2010 release of Red Wing. Quickly staking their claim as independent upstarts in the burgeoning Americana scene, The Steel Wheels followed up this release with three more self-produced albums in the next five years, before joining forces with producer Sam Kassirer for Wild As We Came Here (2017) and Over The Trees (2019). Kevin Garcia (drums, percussion, keys) joined in 2017, bringing a new level of sonic depth and polish to the outfit. Newest member Jeremy Darrow rounds out the rhythm section and grounds the band as they continue to explore deeply rooted yet fresh folk rock sounds. Having gained the experience of thousands of shows, festivals and many miles on the road, the stubbornly independent band has formed deep bonds with each other and the audience that sustains them.

Funky Fridays with Tad Cautious The Eleven at Lark Hall, Albany, 2pm-10pm

Tad Cautious is a DJ and musical curator who has performed at festivals such as Waking Windows in Vermont, Chicago’s Sacred Rose festival and Phish’s Riviera Maya festival in Cancun. He is the host of The Bunny, a weekly free-format show on SiriusXM based on the onsite station of the same name that he has helmed at Phish festivals since 1996. His sets range from international funk, psychedelic jazz and soul to muddled electronics, classic dub, and archival oddities, resulting in a pleasant disorientation.

Momentum Series: Joe Louis Walker, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-12pm

Chick Corea glibly referred to him as “The Chick Corea of Blues,” and Aretha Franklin called him “The Bluesman.” Blues Hall of Famer Joe Louis Walker has an impressive list of credentials: a six-time Blues Music Award winner, nominee for the Contemporary Blues Grammy and a duet with B.B. King on his Grammy award-winning Blues Summit album. But that doesn’t come close to describing the euphoria-inducing, feel-good rollick of one of the greatest bluesmen in a generation. Billboard hailed his playing as “…gutbucket blues, joyous gospel, Rolling Stones-style rock crunch, and aching R&B. Walker’s guitar playing is fine and fierce.” NPR described Joe Louis Walker as “a legendary boundary-pushing icon of modern blues.”

The Hard Luck Souls | Joe Mansman & the Midnight Revival Band | The Dionyus Effect, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 7pm-10pm

93.9 WABY presents Capital Underground Live Feat. The Hard Luck Souls, Joe Mansman & the Midnight Revival Band, The Dionyus Effect

90s Night with NOYK, Lost and Found, Albany, 9pm

Eric Gaffney (co-founder of Sebadoh) / Rabid Children, No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

Saturday, May 3rd

The Furious Bongos play Zappa!, The Linda, Albany, 8pm-10pm

We’re only in it for the money.

HAHAHAHA

Actually, we’re just a bunch of professional musicians with pretty diverse backgrounds who decided to take on a pretty big challenge and have some fun in the process.

Now, you might ask, “Oh yeah? ‘Professional’ musicians, eh? What makes you think you can play Frank’s music as well as [insert Zappa family member here]?”

Well…you might not have heard of us individually, but you have heard of the people we’ve spent our careers working with (and we don’t mean “I played a 10am slot at a festival once that was headlined by Famous Artist X”):

The Egg Presents: Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company, The Egg, Albany, 8pm

The Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company concert will feature a reprise of Celebrated Emblems, a highly anticipated first-time collaboration with the Musicians of Ma’alwyck with Brett Wery on clarinet. Also on the program, ESDC will premiere Sometimes I Cascade to music by jazz violinist Leroy Jenkins, a performance of Fade to music by Henryk Gorecki and a return of ESDC’s The Egg Kids Project designed for teenage students of dance. The evening will begin with a 7:15 pm Prelude Talk given by Artistic Director Ellen Sinopoli with guest artist Ann-Marie Barker Schwartz, artistic director of the Musicians of Ma’alwyck.

Photo by Gary Gold

Albany Symphony: Music of John Williams, The Palace Theatre, Albany, 7:30pm

David Alan Miller, conductor

The music of John Williams has transported us beyond our imagination. To new worlds. Through heart-pounding adventures. Be there as David Alan Miller conducts all your John Williams favorites: Superman, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Harry Potter, E.T., and of course, Star Wars.

Clue, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

A mansion. A murder. A mystery.

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Henry Fonda for President (2025), Proctors Theater, Schenectady

A descendent of the founder of the nearby village of Fonda, Henry Fonda rose through Hollywood to embody America’s quintessential everyman. “Fonda starred as Abe Lincoln, Tom Joad, Wyatt Earp, and the honest naval officer Mister Roberts,” notes film historian J. Hoberman (Artforum). “He was the protagonist of The Wrong Man (1956) and of 12 Angry Men (1957). He fought for democracy in the Spanish Civil War on-screen… and in World War II in actuality. He personified New Deal democracy, Cold War liberalism, and—thanks to his rebellious children—the 1960s generation gap.

The Psychology of a Murderer, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs

Unlock the mind of a murderer.

Join forensic psychologist Dr. Rachel Toles for an illuminating journey into the mind of a killer. In “The Psychology of a Murderer,” Dr. Toles thoroughly examines the various factors and breaking points that might lead someone to kill, while exploring infamous cases, such as the Menendez brothers, Chris Watts, Aaron Hernandez, Jeffrey Dahmer, the Columbine killers, Aileen Wuornos and more. The pending case of Luigi Mangione will also be covered.

Bit Brigade Performs “Super Mario World” + “F-Zero” LIVE, Empire Underground, Albany, 8pm

Al Stewart & Livingston Taylor, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes

AL STEWART

The Scottish-born singer-songwriter, Al Stewart, has released nearly 20 introspective and lyrically powerful records featuring brilliant backing musicians (Jimmy Page, Phil Collins, Richard Thompson, Peter White, etc.). His biggest platinum successes, Year of The Cat and Time Passages, were released in 1976 & 1978, respectively. He’s had several top 20 singles, including the above-mentioned titles, as well as “On the Border” and “Song On The Radio”.

LIVINGSTON TAYLOR

Livingston Taylor picked up his first guitar at the age of 13, which began a 50-plus-year career that has encompassed performance, songwriting, and teaching. From top-40 hits “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman,” the last two recorded by his brother James, Livingston’s creative output has continued unabated. His musical knowledge has inspired a varied repertoire, and he is equally at home with a range of musical genres—folk, pop, gospel, jazz—and from upbeat storytelling and touching ballads to full orchestra performances.

Get Up Jack, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 7pm-10pm

Award winning Celtic/Americana music!

Capital Zen at The Eleven at Lark Hall (FREE SHOW), Lark Hall, Albany, 6pm-8pm

A genre blending live music experience, Capital Zen has been playing shows around New England for over a decade. Combining elements of rock, funk, hip-hop, and prog, Capital Zen gives fans fully crafted originals, a unique blend of covers, and always a couple “I can’t believe they’re playing this” moments. Come to one Capital Zen show, and we guarantee it won’t be your last.

Hilltop w/s/g Residual Groove, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm

Hilltop is a four piece Funk Rock band based in Albany, NY. The group consists of brothers Stephen & Reid Perry, and their friends Aris Nieuwkerk and Dave Klang. The Perry brothers started playing rock music in high school with Aris, who met keyboardist/founding member George Scherck at music school in Schenectady, NY. Reid and Dave met in Dobbs Ferry, NY at Mercy College, and Stephen studied percussion at SUNY Fredonia before transferring to Mercy. The five of them eventually started playing and writing before their first show in January of 2018 and released their self titled, self produced album a year later. George left the band in 2019 but the band has continued to grow as a quartet. With over 100 shows under their belt, Hilltop shows no signs of slowing down. Each member offers a proficient, unique approach to their instrument, defining the experience. This band of young musicians is ready to spread their music and will continue to engage crowds wherever they go.

Margarita & Mimosa Fest + King Bully, Putnam Place, Saratoga Springs, 2pm-8pm

Part bar hop, part delicious cocktail celebration, the 8th Annual Margarita & Mimosa Festival takes place across 15 bars & restaurants throughout downtown Saratoga. The event will include live music, DJ’s,  samplings, giveaways, beer ,mimosas, seltzers, tequila & wild margarita specials. King Bully & Sly Fox will be playing the hottest music on the biggest dance floor in Saratoga, so make sure you come by and let’s have some fun!

Ladies Night ft: King Bully & Sly Fox, Putnam Place, Saratoga Springs, 11pm-3am

Come get down on the biggest dance floor in Saratoga with King Bully and Sly Fox.

King Bully blurs the lines between Dancehall, Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, and Latin into what is a refreshing departure from anything else you’ve heard. The Troy NY native not only dominates the Capital Region club circuit, he also boasts an impressive list of concerts, which includes acts like Dababy, Lil Baby, Cardi B, Fabolous, DMX, Ja Rule, Ashanti and more. Always sure to get the crowd hype and the club packed, DJ King Bully is the sound that keeps any party going strong.

Little Folks Series featuring Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 3pm-4pm

Looking for a fun, interactive, and musical experience to share with your little ones? Deb Cavanaugh ( aka, Miss Deb) & Dandelion Wine bring their joyful, high-energy show to Caffè Lena’s Little Folks Series, blending folk, blues, rock, and a touch of musical magic to delight audiences of all ages!

Sing, dance, and laugh along, with mountain dulcimer, guitar, upright bass, and more, this dynamic group makes every performance an engaging adventure filled with fun songs, playful storytelling, and music that kids (and grown-ups!) will love.

Kyran Daniel, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-10pm

“An incredible force in music… always received with thunderous applause and standing ovations.” – Tommy Emmanuel

Guitarist, composer, and producer Kyran Daniel brings his distinctive style to Caffè Lena for an evening of intricate, expressive guitar music. His career began alongside Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel, leading to a full scholarship at Berklee College of Music and collaborations with artists like G Flip, Gretta Ray, and Grammy-winning producer Printz Board (Black Eyed Peas, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson).

The Spring Thing, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 4pm-10pm

Kim presents, THE SPRING THING!

Featuring Grief Group, Laura Leigh, The A.M.’s, Girth Control, Toriendofstory, Wavy Cuningham, Ice Queen, Coupons

To celebrate the arrival of spring and kick-off outdoor music season, come out and catch 8 great acts at The Hangar in Troy! 2 stages, one indoor one outdoor. Rain or shine.

The Capital Region has an incredible music community that spans so many genres and styles of music. The goal of this event is to get people out in front of musicians they may not normally see. Maybe you’re a metal fan that never catches a country band, or maybe you go to punk shows but have never seen a great local hip hop performance… Here’s a chance to come out and support our local music community as a whole, connect with new people and maybe find a favorite new act!

Doors at 3pm / Music at 4pm (4PM START FOR REAL!)

Emo Live Band Karaoke, Lost and Found, Albany, 9pm

The Mystery Lights / Sun Natives / Abyssmals, No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

Sunday, May 4th

Rock Voices Albany: Spring Concert 2025, The Egg, Albany, 4pm

Join Rock Voices Albany as they return for another unforgettable evening of incredible music, this time featuring songs by The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Romantics, Bonnie Raitt, Aretha Franklin, The Eagles, Sting, Guster, Beck, Colbie Caillat, Lucius, and more.

Backed by a professional rock band, Rock Voices Albany brings these songs to life with the rich harmonies of Tony Lechner’s arrangements. With a 150+ voice choir and a live band, you’re in for a real treat!

Clue, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

A mansion. A murder. A mystery.

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Sunday Jazz at UPH: Brian Patneaude Quintet, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs

Formed in 2002, the Brian Patneaude Quintet currently features pianist Rob Lindquist, guitarist Justin Henricks, bassist Jarod Grieco, and drummer Danny Whelchel. The group’s music is an organic blend of modern jazz styles, featuring accessible melodies and rich harmonic textures that appeal to both casual listeners and jazz aficionados alike. Their close-knit musical relationship and seamless interplay are the result of performances at numerous venues throughout the Northeast—including the Kingston International Jazz Festival, Albany Riverfront Jazz Festival, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Guilderland Performing Arts Center, WAMC Performing Arts Studio, Cohoes Music Hall, the “A Place for Jazz” concert series, Albany’s Lark Fest, Saratoga’s Final Stretch Street Festival, and an eight-and-a-half-year weekly residency at Justin’s, one of the Capital District’s most highly acclaimed jazz venues.

Foodstock 13, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 2pm-8pm

Foodstock is a musical benefit to raise money for The Food Pantries for the Capital District.

Lark Hall Market, Lark Hall, Albany, 12pm-5pm

Latin Night w/ BoyBoy, Putnam Place, Saratoga Springs, 7pm-1am

Join us for Latin Night every Sunday at Putnam Place and get down to the hottest Latin beats by BoyBoy!

Want to learn Latin dancing?  Our friends from Tango Fusion Dance Company will be here from 7pm – 8pm (every Sunday) offering free dance lessons.  No partner or experience necessary!

Food will be available for purchase, or perhaps you would rather enjoy a hookah, provided by our friends at Hookah Mami’s.

The Resonant Rogues, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 7pm-9pm

The Resonant Rogues’ dark Appalachian folk paints a picture of their lives in the mountains of Western North Carolina and on the road. Anchored by the songwriting duo of Sparrow Smith (banjo, accordion) and Keith Smith (guitar), they’ve traveled the byways and highways of America and crossed the oceans with instruments in tow. From riding freight trains to building their own homestead, the pair are no strangers to blazing unconventional trails.

The Rogues just released a new album, recorded in Nashville with renowned producer Andrija Tokic (Alabama Shakes, Hurray for the Riff Raff), featuring guest appearances from Sierra Ferrell, Benjamin Tod, John James Tourville (Deslondes), and Jason Dea West.

The Invincible Casuals, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 7pm-10pm

The Invincible Casuals aka the Incredible Casuals

Rikki Bates, Chandler Travis, Steve “Woo Woo” Wood.

 

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