Jukebox – Music News Cuts – 4/11

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April 11, 2025

Jukebox.

Weezer

Jillian Lauren, wife of Weezer’s Scott Shriner, was shot by police and charged with attempted murder after coming out of her house shooting a gun for an unknown reason and refusing to put down her gun when ordered by officers, who were, at the time, looking for three suspects in the neighborhood.

It is believed that Lauren was shooting at one of the suspects, but that is not clear. She was shot in the shoulder by officers, upon which time she went back in her house and stayed there for a half hour.

Lauren is a New York Times Bestseller, with two books, one, “Some Girls: My Life in a Harem,” about her experience as a call girl for the prince of Brunei. She’s been married to Shriner since 2005 and is the mother of two children.

Weezer is expected to play Coachella, and they haven’t cancelled.

The Marias

The Marias have a new tour coming this year, the “Submarine Tour,” and have released the dates. The tour starts July 10^th in McAllen, Texas and will end on September 24^th in Charlotte, North Carolina, encapsulating shows in Austin, Minneapolis, Vancouver, Nashville, Atlanta and others.

Tickets will be on pre-sale April Fifteenth at 10am, with general sales happening April 18^th.

The Marías 2025 Tour Dates:
04/11 – Indio, CA @ Coachella
04/18 – Indio, CA @ Coachella
07/10 – McAllen, TX @ McAllen Convention Center *
07/12 – Austin, TX @ Moody Amphitheater *
07/17 – Tucson, AZ @ AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol *
07/19 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl *
07/20 – Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre *
07/23 – Portland, OR @ Theater of the Clouds *
07/25 – Vancouver, BC @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre *
07/27 – Seattle, WA @ WAMU Theater *
07/30 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
08/01 – Minneapolis, MN @ The Armory *
08/02 – St. Charles, IA @ Hinterland
08/03 – Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
09/19 – Atlanta, GA @ Shaky Knees Festival
09/21 – Nashville, TN @ Ascend Amphitheater ^
09/23 – Raleigh, NC @ Red Hat Amphitheater ^
09/24 – Charlotte, NC @ Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre ^

* = w/ julie
^ = w/ Momma

Patti Smith

This fall, New York punk scene icon Patti Smith will be releasing a new memoir, called “Bread of Angels.” It will be out November 4^th from Random House (Bloomsbury Trade in the UK.) The memoir will cover her childhood in working class Philadelphia and New Jersety, moving to Michigan, marrying Fred “Sonic” Smith and her grief over his death. The synopsis is as follows:

“God whispers through a crease in the wallpaper, writes Patti Smith in this indelible account of her life as an artist. A post–World War II childhood unfolds in a condemned housing complex described in Dickensian detail: consumptive children, vanishing neighbors, an infested rat house, and a beguiling book of Irish fairy tales. We enter the child’s world of the imagination where Smith, the captain of her loyal and beloved sibling army, vanquishes bullies, communes with the king of tortoises, and searches for sacred silver pennies.

The most intimate of Smith’s memoirs, Bread of Angels takes us through her teenage years when the first glimmers of art and romance take hold. Arthur Rimbaud and Bob Dylan emerge as creative heroes and role models as Smith starts to write poetry, then lyrics, merging both into the iconic recordings and songs such as Horses and Easter, “Dancing Barefoot” and “Because the Night.”

She leaves it all behind to marry her one true love, Fred “Sonic” Smith, with whom she creates a life of devotion and adventure on a canal in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, with ancient willows and fulsome pear trees. She builds a room of her own, furnished with a pillow of Moroccan silk, a Persian cup, inkwell and fountain pen. The couple spend nights in their landlocked Chris-Craft studying nautical maps and charting new adventures as they start their family.

As Smith suffers profound losses, grief and gratitude are braided through years of caring for her children, rebuilding her life, and, finally, writing again—the one constant on a path driven by artistic freedom and the power of the imagination to transform the mundane into the beautiful, the commonplace into the magical, and pain into hope. In the final pages, we meet Patti Smith on the road again, the vagabond who travels to commune with herself, who lives to write and writes to live.”

You can preorder “Bread of Angels” now.

Pull-Up King – The Weird Side of the Internet

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Staff

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April 11, 2025

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Pull-Up King – The Weird Side of the Internet – by Liam Sweeny.

I can’t do a pull-up. I was born with a debilitating condition of being lazy as hell. No real upper-arm strength. I’m tall; I heard that tall people have a hard time doing pull ups. My gym teacher in grade school was an assh*le about it too. Hindsight, he probably didn’t have a lot going on outside of school. But he made my fifth period hell, and the centerpiece of the torment was the sweat sheened pull up bar.

That said, I always wanted to do pull ups, because you always want what you can’t have, right? But it’s an unrequited longing, because being both freakishly big and freakishly tall, I’d need two super-chocked-full shots of anabolic steroids just to leave earth’s gravity a half foot. So no on the pull-ups.

But check out Truett Hanes. Truett is the current Guinness Book of World Records holder of the “most pull-ups.” He won by doing 10,001 pull-ups in 24 hours. He actually broker his old record of 8,100 pull-ups, only beaten a day later by Gary Lloyd, who had done 8,600 pull ups.

It seems like they may have just opened up this category, or that it had gotten dusty for a while. These numbers are so wilsly apart as to beg maybe a few questions.

10,001. In 24 hours. I’m going to calculate that for you. That’s 7 pull ups a minute. And that sounds doable if you’re only killing a few minutes on a pull-up bar, but that would be a consistent rate over 24 hours. Did he take breaks or let the pee run down his leg? Did he stop to eat or drink? Not eating, I get. But maybe he had one of those beer hats with spring water on.

Anyhoo, Truett, congratulations. Now please go to my old gym teacher’s house and bust out enough pull-ups to put him to shame.

The Heights – An Xperience Column

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Joe Barna

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April 11, 2025

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The Heights – An Xperience Column – by Joe Barna.

Hello …Yeah, it’s been a while… Not much … How bout you?”

This famous line from a song called “I’d Really Like To See You Tonight” by England Dan & John Ford Coley resonates with my soul now more than ever. Why? Because it has been exactly one full year since I last found the inspiration and motivation to share my perspectives with all of you who support this fantastic offering known as Xperience Monthly. It has been a while, and I miss you. I’ve certainly had some experiences this past year (pun intended). So, if you’re up for a little journey, then hop in and buckle up.

In 2023 my career had taken off like never before, or so I had thought. The gigs were rolling in, I started making more of an impact on the local scene and it felt like I didn’t ever have nights off. My calendar was soaked with all the ink it had absorbed from writing in the names of the venues I was performing in, the names of the musicians on each performance, and more. Life was starting to shape itself into the majestic structure I had always wished it to become. Much like the Jeffersons, I thought I was “Movin’ On Up.”

But wait … what’s that? What is this strange feeling I’m having? Why does everything feel so wrong? Why does it feel like my body, mind, and spirit are being crushed under the weight of a thousand bags of sand? Well, here’s another line you might remember … ”Hello Darkness, My Old Friend.” This comes from a song by Simon & Garfunkel called “The Sound of Silence.” I’m not sure how they meant it, but this is how I am relating it to my own situation.

Come along …

When I think of my own darkness, I connect it to the unresolved or unaddressed circumstances to which I have been subjected. This could stem from my own poor decisions, neglecting to give attention to important aspects of my personal life, as well as musical life, engaging with outside influences that distract me from reaching my goals, not taking care of my physical well-being, not letting go of the past, not refueling my spirit through prayer or meditation, and overall simply exhausting myself to a point where I have little to nothing left to give. My darkness comes from immersing myself so deeply into my career that it begins to define me. When this happens, the stress of having to live up to the image I’ve created can lead to a road that rapes me of my happiness, creativity, empathy, joy, motivation, friendships, sleep, kindness, and emotional well-being. It’s not a place I recommend visiting.

So, how did this happen?

It was March of 2024, and I was just coming off my most successful year as a full-time artist. I found myself a part of over 200 gigs, was surrounded by crowds of people, and believed I was well on my way to blossoming into the musician I had always dreamed of becoming. But on the 7th of that month, I woke up uninspired, exhausted, bitter, complacent, confused, and to some degree sad. It was a feeling unlike any I had ever experienced. The idea of packing up for a gig, loading the car, driving to the venue, playing all night, and then having to drive back home felt like a mountain of a task that I was unwilling to participate in. What on earth was going on inside of me?

You see, when you attempt to define yourself by what you do rather than who you are as a human being you can get lost inside your own mind. It’s a lonely feeling that can strip the satisfaction away from that which otherwise would afford you extreme pleasure. Nothing feels good and nothing feels right. You’ve worked so hard at something, one thing, that you’re left empty and without purpose. You thought your purpose was the music, but you are faced with the reality that music is simply just another part of you. There are layers to us all that go deeper than our eyes can recognize. We are sons, daughters, moms, dads, teachers, mentors, spirits, learners, writers, enthusiasts, thinkers, and much more. To allow one aspect of ourselves to dictate what we are or what we are not is a disservice to the creator. We are born into many identities and purposes. None of us are mistakes, although we will make many. None of us are accidents, although we may find ourselves as part of one. None of us are the career we choose, although our career may be a huge part of what drives and motivates us.

I allowed life to slip away from me. My health suffered, my relationships suffered, my sleep suffered, my tolerance suffered, my passion for life suffered, my self-worth suffered, and more. If ever there was an example of burnout, it was inside me.

In April of 2024, I walked away from nearly all my gigs, bands, writing for Xperience, sold much of my gear, and started contemplating what was next on the horizon. In June of that year, I decided I’d attempt to fulfill a goal that I had always wanted to achieve. Although I was burned out and not fully inspired I decided to try one last time to get out there and play my music with my own band. So, I booked a month-long tour through New York, Ohio, Tennessee and back again. I thought possibly what was contributing to my burnout was being in the same place for too long. Maybe by getting away for a while and playing in new venues, I could obtain that inspiration, enthusiasm, and motivation I had lost. But, NOPE … it just made things worse. I quickly realized I was not up to the task. In under one week, I felt imposter syndrome begin to set in. I felt like a shell of myself musically. Like a fraud who was undeserving of the stages I was being afforded the opportunities to perform on. The rest of the band was playing on a much higher level than I could accommodate and I felt unworthy. This was the final nail in the coffin that eventually led me to take the largest break my career had experienced in 30 years. It was time to step away.

So, where are things now?

After some healthy soul searching and coming to terms with the reality that maybe I wasn’t living up to the potential I had been given in this life, I set forth a plan to become more in balance with all that existed around me. I’ve taken on a new job as a full-time ISS substitute teacher at a local school, have gone back to the gym, and have a daily practice routine that is helping to break down many of the musical barriers that previously seemed insurmountable. I’m loving the experience of bearing witness to my beautiful daughter coming into her own and am once again finding the joy in the process of bringing music to the world without allowing it to define me.

I’d like to dedicate this month’s return to Xperience Monthly to Chris Garabedian (drummer/pastor/father/friend/mentor/husband and more). Your love, support, encouragement, kindness, friendship, generosity, and spirit came to me at a time when I was most vulnerable. You have shown me the power of prayer, the joy in the unknown, and the peace to walk forward knowing that all things will be as they should, in good times and in tough times. Had you not contacted me when you did, who knows where this broken shell of a man would have ended up? I love you.

For those who have taken the time to read this testimony …

Thank you … it’s not easy to open up in a format such as this. But, you never know who needs to hear a story such as this. Chris Garabedian stopped by my life unexpectedly and saved me. Maybe hearing what I had to walk through can do the same for someone else.

Warmest regards,

Joe

“Albany Rock Pit – Rock Weekend” @ September’s Too, 4/6/2025

By

Stephanie J Bartik

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April 10, 2025

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The Albany Rock Pit: Building Confidence, Craft, and Community Through Music

Words and Photography by Stephanie J Bartik, NY Rockstar Photographer

The Albany Rock Pit has become far more than just a music school—it’s a creative haven where young musicians between the ages of 5 and 18 can discover their passion, develop their craft, and build the foundation for a lifelong journey in music. Offering private lessons and performance group opportunities across a full range of instruments—bass, drums, guitar, keyboard/piano, vocals, and songwriting—the Albany Rock Pit is cultivating not just technical skill but the poise and confidence that translates into every area of life.

This past Sunday, April 6, 2025, at September’s Too, the community was treated to an electrifying showcase of student talent during one of the Rock Pit’s live performance events. The atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation, and from the moment the first young performers took the stage, it was clear that these students weren’t just learning notes—they were becoming musicians.

The performance was thoughtfully structured to highlight the progression of skill and stage presence across age groups. The youngest students kicked things off with impressive charm and control, demonstrating how even the newest musicians are encouraged to step into the spotlight with confidence. As the event unfolded, the audience was treated to increasingly sophisticated performances, and by the time the older students took the stage, the entire venue felt like it had transformed into a high-energy local band showcase.

What was most striking was the versatility of the students. Many moved fluidly from one instrument to another, switching from drums to guitar, then over to the keyboard, without missing a beat. Several also delivered vocal performances, showcasing their range and stage command with remarkable ease. This cross-training not only builds musical dexterity but also cultivates adaptability and creative problem-solving skills essential to both music careers and life.

A particularly emotional moment in the event came during the celebration of graduating student Eric White. Eric, who has grown into a seasoned performer under the guidance of the Rock Pit’s dedicated instructors, took the stage with an easy confidence and charisma that immediately connected with the audience. His performance was more than technically proficient—it was personal, passionate, and deeply engaging. Watching his journey culminate in this moment was heartwarming for everyone in attendance, especially the parents, whose faces beamed with pride and joy.

The Albany Rock Pit is more than a place to learn scales and songs—it is a space where young people are encouraged to explore who they are, express themselves, and build a sense of community through collaboration and performance. The confidence these students carry onto the stage will follow them into boardrooms, classrooms, and studios alike. Whether or not they pursue music professionally, the lessons they learn here—discipline, self-expression, teamwork, and courage—will remain invaluable.

For any parent seeking a nurturing yet challenging environment for their child to explore music, the Albany Rock Pit is truly a gem. It’s not just shaping musicians—it’s shaping future leaders, artists, and confident individuals ready to take on the world.

Show Detective – Weekend Shows – 4/11 – 4/13

By

Staff

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April 10, 2025

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Show Detective.

Friday, April 11^th

An Evening with Amy Speace, The Linda, Albany, 8pm-10pm

Heralded by Rolling Stone and Billboard Magazine, Amy Speace is one of contemporary folk and Americana music’s leading voices of the new generation. Lauded by mentors Judy Collins, Tom Paxton and Janis Ian, as well as the songwriting community in Nashville, her songs have been recorded by Judy Collins, Red Molly, Sid Selvidge among others. After 20 years of touring, she has played concerts all across the US and Europe and has graced stages from Glastonbury Festival, Cambridge Folk Festival in the UK to Rocky Mountain Folks Festival and Mountain Stage.

The Egg Presents: Kaushiki Chakraborty with Rishith Desikan // Veena and Devesh Chandra, The Egg, Albany, 8pm

A Musical Odyssey: Mother and Son in Harmony

Kaushiki Chakraborty is a mesmerizing Indian classical vocalist, celebrated for her soul-stirring performances that effortlessly blend tradition with innovation. Daughter of legendary Ajoy Chakraborty and trained in the Patiala gharana, her voice is a powerful yet delicate instrument capable of conveying the deepest emotions. Kaushiki’s artistry transcends genres, moving from khayal to thumri and beyond, leaving audiences spellbound with her technical mastery and emotive expression. She is a beacon in the world of Hindustani classical music, breaking down gender barriers and inspiring a new generation of music lovers.

Kisstory w/s/g Live Wire 518, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm-10:30pm

Bringing the demon back to Cohoes once again. Kisstory- the one and only KISS replica tribute band that will rock the Music Hall till the walls rattle. Starting with makeup and costumes, (taking 60-90 minutes) all the way to the photos with fans at the end of each show. Kisstory was established in 1996, by Vinny Dawson. He said it was definitely a morphing project, as there have been many members over the years. He wondered how these four men would all fit the persona of each KISS member so accurately- It was so much more than just putting make-up on the face! In no way, did he want anyone at the show to have to try to guess who each member was portraying. They were all that spot on… Pure perfection!

Soul Provider, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 7pm-10pm

Soul Provider has been providing Soul, Rock N’Roll and R&B for over a decade! One of the top party bands playing venues all over the Capital District.

Belle-Skinner at The Eleven at Lark Hall, Albany, 7pm-9pm

Belle-Skinner is a dark nostalgic singer-songwriter based in New York. With a hauntingly beautiful, lilting soprano and innate sense of melody she crafts tales of songbirds, sirens and desert nomads – nuanced and layered stories which bridge the gap between past and present. Though her influences cover a broad range of genres – from French chansons and Russian folk to contemporary alt-pop and rock – her voice often draws comparisons to the likes of Joni Mitchell, Kate Bush, Jeff Buckley, Mary Hopkin, and early St. Vincent.

Jennifer Tefft and The Strange, Chris Busone, Harley Reign and The Aces, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 6pm

$15 at the door for a great night of music with Jennifer Tefft & The Strange, Chris Busone Band and Harley Reign & The Aces brought to you by RadioRadioX/Xperience Monthly. Chris Busone is celebrating the release of his latest album, “Ro-Sham-Bo,” and this is Harley Reign and the Aces’ debut performance from Albany Rock Pit.

Peak Jazz Series : Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin Jazz Sextet, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-10pm

A multi-talented artist, Baratta’s career spans both music and film, with an impressive list of Hollywood credits, including The Wolf of Wall Street, The Irishman, Joker, and several Spider-Man films. After decades in the film industry, Baratta made a triumphant return to jazz, earning a GRAMMY nomination for his 2020 album, Music in Film: The Reel Deal, which reimagined iconic movie soundtracks in a jazz setting. His follow-ups, Music in Film: The Sequel and Off the Charts, solidified his place as a boundary-pushing bandleader and visionary musician.

80’s VS. 90’s Dance Night – DJ Tex VS. DJ Dogtoy, No Fun, Troy, 8pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

4/11 5:00 PM Gianna Robustiano & Tony Garza- Frog Alley Brewing

4/11 5:30 PM Matt Cosgrove- Bootleggers

4/11 5:30 PM Rob Aronstein- Wishing Well

4/11 6:00 PM Bob Fox- Thirsty Owl

4/11 6:00 PM Chloe Noel- Saratoga Winery

4/11 6:00 PM Dave Render- Powers Pub

4/11 6:00 PM DJ Romantic’s- The Scarlet Knife

4/11 6:00 PM Drank The Gold- Cock & Bull

4/11 6:00 PM Frank Murray- Indian Ladder Farms

4/11 6:00 PM Harmonic Duo- Martels Grill & Bar

4/11 6:00 PM Jacksland- Prime at Saratoga National

4/11 6:00 PM Jay Yager- The Bunker North Greenbush

4/11 6:00 PM Nick Horace- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park

4/11 6:00 PM Nick Rossi- Spa City Tap & Barrel

4/11 6:00 PM Peter Pashoukos- Inn at Saratoga

4/11 6:30 PM Art N Shawna- Artisanal Brew Works

4/11 6:30 PM Pat Decker- Diamond Club at Embassy Suites

4/11 6:30 PM Scott Simpson- Other One Brewery

4/11 6:30 PM Wreckless Duo- Peddlers Bar & Bistro

4/11 7:00 PM Joe’s Boys- Bunker Clifton Park

4/11 7:00 PM POGO- The Bunker Mohawk Harbor

4/11 7:00 PM The Foggy Notions- Holy Moses Tavern

4/11 7:00 PM Tiney Planet- Kraverie

4/11 7:00 PM Twilight- Unihog

4/11 8:00 PM Bruce Blinn -Knapp- Mittlers

4/11 8:00 PM Coverband with Mike Levin- Saratoga City Tavern

4/11 8:00 PM DJ Vision- Misfit

4/11 8:00 PM Jacob Shipley- Cooperstown Distilling Saratoga

4/11 8:00 PM Joe Are.Sham. Bow- Katie O’Byrnes

4/11 8:00 PM Refrigerator’s- Wicked Eatery

4/11 8:00 PM Trevor Braymer- Bourbon Room

4/11 9:00 PM Darren Lyons Quartet- Nine Maple

4/11 9:30 PM Gordon Street- Spa City Tap & Barrel

Saturday, April 12^th

Beatlemania Again! The Linda, Albany, 8pm-10pm

Beatlemania Again – The World’s Premier Beatles Stage Show!

This outstanding performance features three versions of The Beatles all in one show. The show starts with “Meet The Beatles”, then transforms into the “Sergeant Pepper” era and finishes with the “Get Back” era and a great encore.

Beatlemania Again features Broadway cast members as well as former members of the Hall & Oates Band! This incredible show has performed to rave reviews nationwide!!

The Weird Sisters, Empire Underground, Albany, 8pm

Hello My Name is Blotto: The Movie, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 9pm

The new documentary film from Rob Lichter, Hello! My Name Is Blotto – The Movie!, premiers at The Cohoes Music Hall, Saturday, April 12, 2025.

It is a broad and entertaining look at the career of the upstate New York rock band Blotto who evolved from playing clubs and colleges to navigating the record business, MTV celebrity and national touring after their 1980 surprise radio hit “I Wanna Be A Lifeguard”. The film spans the origins of the band members starting as The Star Spangled Washboard Band in the 1970’s, their evolution to Blotto and heyday in the 1980’s, and their long afterlife up to the present. It’s a unique and joyous take on the timeless story of “trying to make it in show business” and can be enjoyed by anyone who ever had a dream.

Dr.Jah and The Love Prophets, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm-11pm

Capital Districts Favorite Reggae Party Band!

The Slackers w/s/g Some Ska Band, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm

For 33 years, the NYC-based and critically acclaimed Slackers have been touring the world with their blend of Ska, Reggae, and Soul.

Since 1991, the Slackers have released fifteen albums and countless singles, while their 1000s of live performances feed their fans with energetic sets of ecstatic music.

The Slackers have been called ‘the Sound of New York’ by the New York Times. They were described by Brooklyn Vegan as a “clean mix of Ska, Reggae, and Soul that gets dirtied up by Vic Ruggiero’s tough New York accent.’

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.

Guitarist Sly Fox is best knows as the front man for blues-rock outfit Sly Fox and The Hustlers.

Momentum Series: Roomful of Blues, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-10pm

Hailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves,” this boisterous, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger.

Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970), their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos, who brings fresh, soulful energy to their timeless sound, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax, Carl “Geerz” Gerhard on trumpet, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums.

Selfish Act / Depressionista / Living Bomb / From Within, No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

4/12 2:00 PM Growling Hazers- S&S farm Brewery

4/12 3:00 PM Geo Doody- Helderberg Mountain Brewing

4/12 5:00 PM Ragged Company- S&S farm Brewery

4/12 5:00 PM Ryan & Jon- Dancing Grain Farm Brewery

4/12 6:00 PM Chad McLoughlin Trio- Stella’s Pasta Bar at The Van Dyck

4/12 6:00 PM On Tap Duo- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park

4/12 6:00 PM Pat Decker- The Scarlet Knife

4/12 6:00 PM Steven & Shannon- Powers Pub

4/12 7:00 PM Joe Adee & The Lug Nuts- Cherry Plain Square #17

4/12 8:00 PM 80’s Band- Wicked Eatery

4/12 9:00 AM Nocturne- Troy Farmers Market

Sunday, April 13^th

Eggs Too Expensive? Come Paint Easter Eggs for a Good Cause, The El Dorado, Troy, 4:15pm

JAZZ OPEN HOUSE featuring KATALYST, The Linda, Albany, 3pm-4:30pm

The Linda and the Albany Musicians’ Association (American Federation of Musicians Local 14) present a free, open-to-the-public performance from Katalyst.

Katalyst is a jazz organ trio from New York’s Capital District. The group is comprised of Andrew Hearn on the drum set, Mike Novakowski on guitar, and Jon LeRoy on organ. Experienced jazz musicians in their own rights, the members of Katalyst have performed together for almost 30 years, playing venues and festivals from Western Massachusetts to the Syracuse area.

SSSO – Concert IV: REMEMBER, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

SSSO closes out their 24-25 season with Verdi’s great “Requiem!” Special guests include the Octavo Singers and soloists Jennifer Forni (soprano), Kate Reese-Lerner (mezzo-soprano), Lucas Levy (tenor) and Andrew Boisvert (bass).

Don’t miss the pre-concert talk with our guest artists and Artistic Director/Conductor Glen Cortese at 2 p.m. at Proctors! It’s an excellent way to learn more about the music and an opportunity to ask questions about the performance. All are invited to attend.

Full Blown Chaos, Empire Underground, Albany, 5pm

Nershi Hann Trio w/ Special Guests Laura Leigh Acoustic Trio, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm-9:30pm

Guitarist and co-founder of The String Cheese Incident, Bill Nershi, and wife Jillian Nershi, join together as a duo of harmonies and driving acoustic guitar, immediately drawing in the listener. An inspired journey through various styles and influences, a throwback to the roots of American music, the Nershis have a relaxed way of connecting with the audience through the stories in their songs. Constantly finding ways to make the music sound complete as a duo, unique arrangements and a deep catalogue of original songs highlight the couple’s dedication to their craft.

Bluegrass Jam Featuring Jacob & Tommy Ali, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 5:30pm-9pm

Bluegrass Jams are for making new friends, sharing songs, playing and listening to blue grass and new-grass. All skin levels are welcome.

Mindy Smith, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 7pm-9pm

Mindy Smith is a renowned singer-songwriter blending Americana, folk, & pop with deeply vulnerable lyrics and a career spanning two decades.

“Smith’s best songs sound like little miracles.”– USA Today

Join us for a night of heartfelt music and storytelling as acclaimed singer-songwriter Mindy Smith graces the stage at Caffè Lena. Known for her deeply vulnerable lyrics and genre-defying vocals, Mindy has carved a unique path in the Americana and folk world.

Bill Kirchen, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 7pm-11pm

Bill saw Dylan go electric at Newport in ’65, and was there in ’64 when he debuted Mr Tamborine Man. It ruined him for normal work. He’ll do songs from his catalog, including the Commander Cody years, plus the songs he saw Dylan do those two crucial years at Newport. All with his all star Texas band.

In 1964 and 1965, a young Bill Kirchen made two pilgrimages from his home in Michigan to Rhode Island to attend the legendary Newport Folk Festival at the peak of the folk revival. While there were wondrous performances from old folk and blues artists as well as the new generation of folk stars, all were overshadowed by the emergence of Bob Dylan.

Proximity Crush / Guyscrapers / Pink Lady / Bloodx3, No Fun, Troy, 6pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

4/13 1:00 PM James Kelly- Other One Brewery

4/13 3:30 PM Justin Joyner- Hank Hudson Brewing

4/13 5:00 PM Masters Of Nostalgia- Cock & Bull

4/13 7:00 PM Bill Kirchen- Hanger on The hudson

The Snorts – Interview – Thanks for Asking!

By

Staff

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April 10, 2025

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The Snorts – Interview – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.

RRX: Every artist’s first song is a milestone. But so is the latest song. Describe the first song/album you recorded, and also the latest song/album you recorded; what are the differences?

TS: The first Snorts record is called “Late to the Party” and it’s definitely a different vibe than our latest record “pitter patter”. The first record was more lite hearted and playful while the latest record seems to be a response to the current happenings of the world. We didn’t plan it that way but to paraphrase Ronnie James Dio, when the world is on fire you can’t always write about rainbows.

RRX: Music genres are difficult for some artists. Some strictly adhere; others not so much. What is your perspective on the genre you play, or the genres you hover around?

TS: Meh, genre’s are silly things for silly people. We play what makes us move, what gets us excited and we don’t worry about what bucket is suppose to fall into. We love all sorts of music, from Ornette Coleman to Heart Attack Man to Leon Redbone, to The Cramps to Dying Fetus.

RRX: We all get a little support from those around us. And we also can be impressed by our fellow performers. Who do you admire in your community, and why?
Oh man, there are so many, in no particular order:

TS: Scott from the record label DCxPC,
Andy Scullin from Metroland Now, Unsigned 518 and Shortwave Radioband,
the boys in Miracle Blood—low key the coolest band in the northeast,
our producer Ryan Dugan,
Jordan Withers from Poison Noises,
TJ over at Love of Fuzz,
the boys in Something Bitter without them we don’t play our first show as The Snorts,
Yeah Universe,
The Hauntings,
No Such Thing As Ghosts,
Grapejuice from Saratoga,

plus a million other people and bands we are leaving out. Without anyone mentioned here the music community simply doesn’t exist. Go see a local band, listen to a local podcast, read your local zine. None of this is guaranteed and it’s up to us to keep it alive.

RRX: A band is a business. A business of love, but you got to work for it. Let’s pretend, instead of a band, you all owned a business. What would it be, and why would it be good?

TS: A record store. We could call it something like “The Snortitorium” and we wouldn’t quite be the asshole that Jack Black’s character in Hi-Fidelity is but we would walk right up to that line. Music isn’t — and shouldn’t be a competitive sport, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to good honest discussion. The beauty of music is there are no wrong answers.

RRX: What was the very first reaction to your music, from the first person to ever hear so much as a practice jam or the demo of your first song?

TS: “So…you gonna be doing that all day?”

RRX: We have to play somewhere, and sometimes those places have more going for them than a stage and a power outlet. What is a memorable place you played, and bonus points if it’s not a well-known place.

TS: The Herkimer Polish community home. Specifically in December, right before Christmas. It’s a special place, with a lot of history and it was one of the best shows we’ve ever been part of — you had to be there. Much love to Atticus Finch and the boys.

Scott Shelby – An Xperience Interview

By

Trenton James K.

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April 10, 2025

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Scott Shelby – An Xperience Interview – by Trenton James K.

There are a few names that are associated with the Texas thrash metal scene. Scott Shelby, the “Thrash Master,” is a larger-than-life lead guitarist slamming stages and crushing heads since his start in the 1980s with his Texas-based band, Gammacide. He’s also destroyed tympanic membranes with his other bands, Hammer Witch, Rotting Corpse, Null & Void, and Texas Metal Alliance, which would later become Warbeast. Shelby is known for his intricate, toxic-embraced solos and larger-than-life stage presence. If anyone knows anything about raging, high-speed thrash metal, it’s Scott Shelby.

RRX: Gammacide had a busy schedule for the month of March, playing at the Haltom Theater on March 13 and the Hell’s Heroes Fest on March 21. How did you and the rest of the band prepare for the long-awaited return of Gammacide, and what can the fans expect?

SS: The fans can expect a grand performance, the whole band is admiring that none of us have worked so dedicated and hard at a project as Gammacide’s return ever !!

We have done some reunion shows in the past that were great at times, but we did not focus like we are now! And the time was not as right as it is now with the resurgence of old school thrash, like it is now with the young and the older audience … so we are bringing our A game 100 percent …

RRX: Does Gammacide plan on writing new material in the future?

SS: We have not discussed that yet; just working on getting our act together as best possible to bring back what we delivered many years ago. And if offers continue, that is the main focus to do for the fans and promoters.

RRX: What was the influence on bringing Gammacide back for another run?

SS: I had been on an unplanned leave from band activity. I’d had enough of not being who I am and started word of reforming Warbeast. Next thing, another legendary band from Arlington, Texas – Rotting Corpse – called me up and wanted to do gigs. So that started up. Next, I got approached by promoter Christian Larson who does Hell’s Heroes, and he asked if I would be interested in bringing Gammacide to the fest,

So I contacted the guys and got a positive response, except Jamey Milford (the original drummer) could not make the call. So of course I call my drummer Joey Gonzalez to fill the big shoes and my bass player Alan Bovee, both from Warbeast, And we have the band: Scott Shelby, Rick Perry, Varnum Ponville (the original guys), and my two from Warbeast!!

Funny thing is it is the exact lineup of Warbeast’s first lineup minus the singer. So it has worked out very organically …

RRX: What is your fondest memory of Bruce Corbitt? What would you say to him if he was with you today?

SS: Fondest memories of Bruce were how good we worked together. We did not always see eye to eye on things, but when we put our heads together and performed together, it was always magic and almost flawless. We always knew without even saying, so we kicked ass together on stage !

If I could say something to him now, it would be I miss the connection we had without words. We could go take over a venue and put on a top-notch show together. It is so missed, and people would eat it up in this new era of thrash metal resurgence. And – I love you brother!!

RRX: Why the name change from Warbeast to Beast of War? Can we expect a different approach to songwriting with the name change, or is Beast of War a direct extension of Warbeast?

SS: unfortunately and strangely, it was upon request by Bruce not to continue on Warbeast without him, so to respect his wishes and his family, we did not….

When I decided to revive the project, I went back to the original name I put in the voting pot (Beast of War), which as you can see is just a slight twist of Warbeast …

So now we have an open door to do whatever we want to the old songs and a fresh new approach to the songwriting and everything about it, which we are excited about. I have a hand-picked lineup that I believe in and expect big results, and we will be redoing some upgraded old material on some recordings, too.

We will begin the writing process this spring and are stoked to get out and show off what we have put together!

RRX: As for your guitar work that spans a few decades, what influenced your shredding style to become one of the most notable thrash players of our time?

SS: I appreciate the acknowledgment! I grew up in the old times before the internet in the same town as Dimebag, and back then, I learned from listening to records and going to concerts (as did Dime). And you either got it, or you didn’t. I was self-taught and did my best to figure songs out as a kid, and then I would see my idols play in concert and compare what I did to what they did …

When I was 17, I saw Yngwie Malmsteen in a small club, walked out, and said there is no use in trying anymore. But I did not give up (lol)!

RRX: What equipment do you use? Does it differ between bands?

SS: Using Mesa/Boogie all the way now, on all the bands. I recently went to them and am just really happy with the easy path to a good tone and quality, I don’t see myself experimenting with any other amps anytime soon …

RRX: What direction do you see heavy metal going in the next 30 years?

SS: See, it goes up and down in its own genre. I’ve seen where it was hard rock, then heavy metal, then thrash, then death metal and nu metal, and so on and so on. They each have their rise and fall as generations come and go, but I don’t ever see metal going away. Just going from what’s in the mood for this 5-6 years to the next 5-6 years.

RRX: If you could go back and give your younger self some advice what would you tell a young Scott Shelby?

SS: I would say focus more on the goal I want to achieve and don’t let drugs and partying disillusion the goal by thinking that’s part of it.n I don’t really know how it is for a young man nowadays with these things, but in my generation, it was prevalent, and I did have some trials and tribulations from that period …

RRX: I elaborated before that your career spans a few decades. Any Interesting stories you would like to share?

SS: With such a span of decades, there are so many, but I cherished touring with Philip Anselmo so much. At many shows, I would come out of backstage in a wrestling mask, gorilla suits, who knows what. And as for both of our love for combat sports and pro wrestling, we would fight each other unscripted and do some classic wrestling moves, even some fake blood. I would have the advantage, but he would win in the end, and it was just hilarious! But I have wondered what the audience was thinking. Like, what the f**k was that (lol)?!

RRX: What advice would you give to the young guitar player trying to develop his own style/ sound?

SS: I would say research everything you can, ‘cause nowadays you can. Learn some different styles than the genre you want to play, ‘cause you can. Incorporate the different stuff, make it your own, and stand out more …

Week Fourteen: Jesse Sample’s Freak of the Week “The Menu”

By

Staff

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April 9, 2025

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Jesse Sample’s Freak of the Week airs EVERY WEDNESDAY at 6pm Eastern on RadioRadioX.com

This is Jesse Sample. One of my favorite things to do is go out to dinner. I like to show a touch early and have a couple drinks at the bar. It’s nice when you’re with others but it’s also nice if it’s just you.

The appetizer is a time to take chances. Going with what you know is nice sometimes, but finding something new that is far outside your normal set can be refreshing and invigorating. Say yes to weird.

The entree is really where we are called on to make the decisions that will affect us for a while. You better love that sauce because you’re with it for a while.

And then there is dessert. Always get dessert.

Thanks to all of you tuned into Radioradiox. This is the Freak of the Week, “The Menu”

The Weird Sisters bring their Space Disco to Empire Underground this Saturday

By

Staff

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April 9, 2025

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If you’ve been wondering what’s been missing in your life, the answer is “space disco.” You may not realize it, you may not even know what it is. But you definitely need it. And you can get it this Saturday, April 12, when the Weird Sisters invade Empire Underground.

It’s a party. No Worries. No Rules.

The Nashville-based Weird Sisters (Izaac Short and Gabrielle Lewis) have built a reputation as one of that city’s most exciting live acts. Their trademark “space disco” sound blends electronic dance music with indie rock and everything in between. Expect an unforgettable live experience.

Said Joe King of the Fray: “If you want four orgasms in one night, listen to the Weird Sisters. If you want to experience GN-z11 (one of the farthest galaxies from Earth), listen to the Weird Sisters. If you want both, go to their show.”

Having drawn significant industry attention, the Weird Sisters are midway through the first leg of their U.S. tour, and they roll through Albany this Saturday immediately after playing the legendary Mercury Lounge (in NYC) the night before. Do not miss this opportunity to catch them in this intimate setting; they are destined for much bigger rooms.

The Weird Sisters at Empire Underground. Saturday, April 12, 2025. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show. Purchase tickets here.

Annabelle Duffy @ Cohoes Music Hall, 4/6/2025

By

Timothy Reidy

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April 9, 2025

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On Sunday, Playhouse Stage Company presented a special (and free!) performance by Albany native and former Playhouse student Annabelle Duffy, featuring the songs of “Funny Girl” and more, at Cohoes Music Hall. Annabelle is the understudy for the lead role of Fanny Brice in the national touring production, has performed as the lead several times, and is by any accounting a fast-rising national theater talent. The Capital Region came out to show their appreciation for this homegrown star.

Photography by Timothy Reidy.