Home Blog Page 221

Jukebox – Music News Cuts – 3/28

By
Staff
-
0
Jukebox

Jukebox.

Ethel Cain

Singer/songwriter Ethel Cain announced her biggest tour yet, in support of her forthcoming album, “Willoughby Tucker, I Will Always Love You.” It’s a European and North American tour beginning in August 2025. Included in the stops are Radio City Music Hall and L.A.’s Shrine Auditorium.

There is an Upstate New York stop, at Outer Harbour Live Terminal B in Buffalo on September 13th. The tour has national and international stops in Philadelphia, Chicago, Berlin, Paris, London, and Toronto. The opener for Cain will be the Toronto shoegaze band 9million.

General sale tickets begin today. Pre-sales began Wednesday. Cain’s new album will be out in August.

Hozier

Selling out the Empire FCU Amphitheater in Lakeview in Syracuse, Hozier will be performing at CMAC (Constellation Brands – Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center) on July 13th in Canandaigua, NY.  The concert will begin at 8pm, and there has been no opening act listed.

Tickets went on sale today at 10am via Ticketmaster. Aside from this show, Hozier will be playing the Governor’s Ball Music Festival in Flushing, Queens.

Hozier has released three albums and currently averages 47 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

CMAC 2025 concert schedule

May 22 & 23: Kane Brown (TICKETS)

June 12: Megan Moroney (TICKETS)

June 21: Goose (TICKETS)

June 29: James Taylor (TICKETS)

July 2: Red White & Boom! featuring the RPO (TICKETS)

July 12: Brad Paisley (TICKETS)

July 13: Hozier (TICKETS)

July 19: Old Dominion (TICKETS)

Aug. 2: The Killers (TICKETS)

Aug. 8: Train with Edwin McCain (TICKETS)

Lizzo

In Amazon MGM Studios upcoming biopic, “Rosetta,” Lizzo will be playing the role of Rosetta Tharpe.

Rosetta Tharpe was known as the godmother of Rock & Roll, influencing such artists as Elvis, Little Richard, Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, and others. Lizzo will also be producing the biopic alongside Kevin Beisler, Nina Yang Bonjiovi, and Forest Whitaker.

The film, according to an early description, “captures a pivotal period in her life — one of groundbreaking innovation, defiant passion, and secret love. As she shatters musical boundaries with her signature guitar sound, Rosetta must navigate societal constraints, conceal her love for another woman, and ultimately transform a wedding into one of the most legendary concerts in history — the first stadium show.”

Tharpe was also portrayed in Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 biopic, “Elvis,” and her songs appear in many films and shows, including “A League of Their Own,” “Death on the Nile,” and “Elvis & Nixon.”

McGeary’s, Brown’s & Ophelia’s – Pub Crawl

By
Timothy Reidy
-
0
McGeary's, Brown's, Ophelia's - Pub Crawl

McGeary’s, Brown’s & Ophelia’s – Pub Crawl – photography by Timothy Reidy.

 

 

 

More from Timothy Reidy…

REVIEW: “7 Sided Circle” by Rick Norman

By
Ree Miller
-
0

Words by Ree Miller.

A funny thing happened on my way to the …

… restroom at Daryl’s House. This one is a single in the bar. There was a line. Using my introvert-trying-to-be-an-extrovert skills, I said to the guy in front of me, “Haven’t I seen you at other shows?” Now, of course I had, ‘cause his distinctive blue chin whiskers/soul patch/whatever it is called these days was hard to miss. It turns out we follow a lot of the same artists, and a friendship was born. We had some follow-up chats, and it turns out this educator-turned-artist writes, plays, and records music that settled right in my pocket.

Rick Norman was a teacher and a school principal, spreading his brand of knowledge and caring in the school system. Now, he’s a musician with a message and a new avocation. All the songs on “7 Sided Circle” communicate some form of love; lovers, brothers, and the world at large. His core belief system centers on peace, love, and understanding. (Thanks, Elvis C., not P.) He would like people to see that the best lived life is a gift and that making the world a better place is something we all can do. Do something to share your positivity. Compliment others. Share a story. Share your talent and time.

Norman’s “7 Sided Circle” contains seven songs, each with their own flavor, but all distinctive to his home personal message and his state of residence. You have heard of the recently created and much-maligned term “yacht rock.” Norman’s is what I would call “Jersey rock.” His music smacks of that played in the Stone Pony; at Asbury Park beach festivals, like the Songwriters on the Beach, a summer concert series produced by Brookdale Public Radio, 90.5 The Night (Go – it is worth the drive from anywhere. One of our faves, Mike Montali is scheduled in August); and songs penned by Jessie Malin. (If you are interested in more about the Stone Pony grab a copy of “I Don’t Want to Go Home – The Oral History of the Stone Pony” by Nick Corasaniti). But I digress, like the sidebar in a textbook (groan). Let’s dive into a few songs with some of my impressions:

1. “Something on a Saturday” – I played this numerous times on a Sunday – a Monday – a Tuesday … it stands the test of the calendar. It has an angelic chord change in the bridge, which makes it a killer tune for me. Bridges aren’t easy to build (I speak from experience here). Anyone who can write a bridge that grabs your attention is aces.

2. “This Guitar” – Come for a little Western guitar twang that gets your attention, stay for a little Jesse Malin-esque moodiness. This song really explains why all the famous name their guitars, like Neil – Old Black; B.B. King – Lucille; Willie Nelson – Trigger: “This guitar’s my shelter from the storm / This guitar I cradle in my arm.” Mutual aid between a player and their axe. Maybe I should really learn to play.

3. “Mississippi” – Gets me right in The Smithereens – another Jersey color in the crayon box. The violin in here will make you cry.

4. “Song for Michael” – A sweet song to a brother lost. Fiddle work that changes how you will look at the night sky. Norman’s lyrics compare the singularity of a brother’s love and shared history to the fleeting magic of: “And oh brother / No other remembers as I do / A shooting star across the sky”

Rick has a show on April 11 at Blue Arrow Farm, Pine Island, NY. (To get tix, scroll to Night of Original Songs on the calendar).

To find out more about Rick Norman and his special brand of peace, love, and understanding, check out his website or YouTube channel. “7 Sided Circle” is available on Amazon, Spotify, and Apple Music.

“Eddies Hall of Fame Awards” @ Universal Preservation Hall, 3/24/2025

By
Stephanie J Bartik
-
0

Photography by Stephanie J Bartik.

More from Universal Preservation Hall ….

Press Release: Girls Need Love 2 at The Madison Theatre (Albany)

By
Staff
-
0

Girls Need Love 2 – The Independent Artist Experience Ends National Women’s Month with Electrifying Performances at The Madison Theatre

[Albany, NY] – Music lovers, mark your calendars! More Music Less Violence is proud to present the highly anticipated Girls Need Love 2 – The Independent Artist Experience,set to take place on March 30th at The Madison Theatre.This one-of-a-kind event will feature an incredible lineup of talented artists from various genres, creating an unforgettable night of live performances, energy, and pure musical magic.

Girls Need Love 2 follows on the long awaited heels of Girls Need Love Part 1 5 years ago at the Fuze Box. It was the last show for DJ Hollyw8d before Covid 19 shut down the world that Monday in 2020.

Girls Need Love 2 is designed to highlight the exquisite emerging and established female artists of the Capital Region, offering a platform for musicians to share their craft with an enthusiastic audience. With performances spanning all genres, attendees will experience an eclectic mix of sounds and styles that cater to all music lovers. Let’s uplift and celebrate creativity and empowerment together!

“Spring is on the way and what better way to celebrate National Women’s History Month, than giving the girls their flowers early. I remember going to some events and there not being one woman performer, it is mind blowing considering the large number of super talented women performers in the Capital Region that don’t really get the spotlight put on them.” – Dj Hollyw8d said in a recent interview with Chris Wienk from 106.1 WEXT.

Show opener Gracie Lineham said during her interview with Chris Wienk at WEXT, “I have seen a lot of male artists get many opportunities, it is hard to come across other women in the industry who are on the same bill as you and getting to work with them even though we have never met each other before the event.”

The event will feature performances by:

  • Lace

  • Aila

  • Ke $upreme

  • Attaquinetta

  • V3X

  • Shaun Jeanette

  • Aniyah Kouture

  • Golden Kisses

  • Chelsea Denae

  • Gracie Lineham

  • Alexandra Chang

Hosted by Coco, the Hostess with the Mostess from Connect with Coco, doors open at 5 PM commencing with an hour of networking and music provided by harpist Alexandra Chang before performances kick off at 6 PM. Attendees can enjoy food, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for music lovers and industry professionals alike. All tickets can be purchased at the door for $10. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary night of music, passion, and community. Join us at Girls Need Love 2 and be part of something truly special.

No MSG TV: An Interview with NY Native, Mark Mangold of Keys

By
Staff
-
0

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel HERE!

Interview: A ‘Grand’ Interview with Mark Mangold of Keys

By: Justin Smulison

KEYS is an all-keyboards band born from the brilliant idea of Swedish vocalist Jake E
(Cyhra, Amaranthe) and New York native and keyboard-wizard Mark Mangold (Touch,
Michael Bolton, Cher, Paul Rogers, and others). It is not the most obvious pairing, but
that’s what makes KEYS so intriguing.

Their sophomore album, The Grand Seduction is now available on Deko Music in the
U.S. and on Escape Music in Europe. The end result is synth- and organ-driven rock
and prog music solely comprised of keyboards and drums – no guitars found here, no
matter what your ears might pick up. Rounding out the lineup is Emanuel Bagge
(Sweden’s Got Talent finalist) for additional vocals and keyboards, Irwan Fabrien
(renowned keyboardguitar sound designer), and drummers Alex Landenburg (Kamelot,
Cyhra) and Adde Larsson.

The album features a cacophony of synth-driven sounds led by Mangold, who I had the
pleasure of speaking with. We spoke about his early days in New York City and Long
Island playing with major acts who were passing through, the influence of jazz on his
style and what he hopes to accomplish through this new musical outfit.
Tracks & clips: “Vortex,” “Turn To Dust,” “I Thought We Had Forever.”

KEYS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Keysband?mibextid=LQQJ4d

 

 

Toss the Feathers @ New York State Museum, 3/16/2025

By
Timothy Reidy
-
0

Toss the Feathers entertained in Adirondack Hall, playing old Albany flutes, at the New York State Museum on March 16.

Photography by Timothy Reidy.

More from the New York State Museum …

 

Ab the Audicrat – Interview – Thanks for Asking!

By
Staff
-
0
Ab the Audicrat

Ab the Audicrat – 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?

AB: Looking back, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment I started recording music, but I believe my first few songs were created when I was about 13 years old, during my freshman year of high school. I would visit a friend’s house, where we recorded using karaoke machines and some very basic equipment. With a few inexpensive keyboards, some homemade beats, and a low-quality microphone, we did what we could with the resources available.

Fast forward over 25 years, and the difference between those early recordings and my latest work is truly remarkable. Through years of experimentation, upgrading equipment, and countless hours spent watching tutorials and refining my skills, everything has come together in a way I never could have imagined. From the quality of the mix to the song structure and overall production value, I’m incredibly proud of how far my music has come.

RRX: Let’s talk about your next project, your next few. Just not the ones you’re working on now. The ones you have your eyes on for the future. What’s coming to us?

AB: My approach to music projects has evolved considerably in recent years. I’ve found that releasing singles has proven to be the most effective strategy. With listeners’ attention spans becoming increasingly limited, dedicating significant time and resources to a full album can be challenging and may not always achieve the desired impact. Instead, I’ve adopted a strategy of releasing multiple singles that eventually form a cohesive album. While this method may seem unconventional, I believe it is the most effective approach in today’s dynamic music landscape.

Currently, I’m developing several instrumental project ideas and working on an album with Xkwisit. The Xkwisit album will primarily feature previously released singles, supplemented by a few new, unreleased tracks to complete the project. In addition to these endeavors, I’m creating YouTube content that will include instructional videos, beat snippets, and potentially a podcast. I also have upcoming singles featuring Xkwisit, Mista Pigz, and Shyste Chronkyte that are nearing completion and will be released soon.

RRX: Tell me about your most recent song, album, or video (you pick.) Tell me a story about what went into making it. Not a process, but a cool story that took place within the process.

AB: My most recent production features Xkwisit and Albany Lou. The beat was built around a guitar sample created by a friend of mine. Interestingly, this track almost ended up on the back burner—I had initially planned to revisit it at a later date. However, when Xkwisit heard the beat, he was immediately inspired to write to it. Recognizing that the track would complement Albany Lou’s style perfectly, we reached out to him, and he recorded his verse alongside Xkwisit. I later handled the mixing and mastering to complete the project.

While the song itself doesn’t have an especially unique backstory, its production process led to some significant breakthroughs in my mixing techniques. Specifically, I discovered new methods for EQing and compressing low-end frequencies, which greatly enhanced the overall clarity and punch of the track. These new techniques have already had a transformative impact on my mixing approach moving forward.

RRX: With services like Spotify, streaming revenue can be pretty dismal. Without spilling secrets, do you have a promotional mindset or philosophy?

AB: That’s a complex challenge to address. Moving forward, I plan to implement a new release strategy designed to improve both reach and engagement. This strategy involves collaborating with a network of DJs and media outlets to distribute my music, ensuring that each release is accompanied by thoughtfully designed artwork and a well-prepared press kit. Additionally, I aim to incorporate a music video with each release to enhance visual storytelling and audience connection.

While this approach requires significant time and effort, I recognize the importance of maintaining consistency in my content output. Regularly posting long-form content on YouTube will complement this strategy and help establish a stronger presence. Ultimately, success will come down to consistent execution and strategic planning.

RRX: What do you think is the most poorly understood thing about music, or the music you play?

AB: In recent years, I’ve made a conscious effort to view my work from the perspective of the consumer—a mindset that wasn’t always part of my creative process. Traditionally, I created music for myself, with little regard for audience expectations. If listeners happened to connect with my work, that was a welcomed bonus. As an artist who constantly critiques both my own music and the industry as a whole, this approach is quite different from that of the typical consumer. Most people aren’t aware of the complexities that take place behind the scenes, nor should they be; their role is simply to listen, watch, and decide whether they enjoy the final product. Historically, how that product is created becomes secondary to the experience it delivers.

However, this perspective has shifted dramatically with the rise of content creation, which is now seemingly endless in 2025. Artists can now invite audiences into their creative journey, offering a deeper understanding of their process in ways that were far less accessible just a decade ago. Those who effectively showcase their craft and demonstrate the effort behind their artistry are the ones who truly stand out. While I’ve begun embracing this approach to some extent, I’m committed to elevating my content strategy even further in 2025 to better connect with my audience.

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 owned a business. What would it be, and why would it be good?

AB: I spent over 15 years working in the restaurant industry, and if I weren’t focused on content creation, owning my own restaurant would undoubtedly be my chosen path. In addition to my creative pursuits, I have a secondary artistic endeavor titled “I Miss Beer,” where I review non-alcoholic (NA) beers. This project is especially meaningful to me, as I will celebrate seven years of sobriety this November. Sharing my passion for the growing variety of exceptional NA beer options has become an important mission — both for those seeking sobriety and for individuals who simply want to incorporate NA beers into their social outings.

During my time working in craft beer bars in both Albany and New York City, I gained valuable experience in curating exceptional beer selections. The opportunity to one day operate a restaurant that features not only a well-crafted beer list but also an impressive NA beer selection is something I would find incredibly rewarding.

 

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4NVjIjAWxBpz1asm7P8Vsg?si=F9kagUtfTcK6SYGEHpDRqg

Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ab-the-audicrat/1487396927

YouTube Music:

https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCaDRuPe8qHaebrXd3cf6ANA

Bandcamp:

https://abtheaudicrat.bandcamp.com/

Amazon Music:

https://music.amazon.ca/artists/B07WCMTGJ6/ab-the-audicrat

Tidal:

https://tidal.com/browse/artist/33077037

Deezer:https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/71616502

Pandora:

https://www.pandora.com/artist/ab-the-audicrat/AR2fKKxXZnKrbcJ

iHeart Radio:

https://www.iheart.com/artist/ab-the-audicrat-33251398/

 

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

Show Detective – Weekend Shows – 3/28 – 3/30

By
Staff
-
0
Show Detective

Show Detective.

Friday, March 28th

Gaelic Storm, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy, 7:30pm

Roll Out The Barrel Tour

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly.Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with.

The band attributes their continued success to their fanatic audience, and it’s a well-diversified crowd for sure – attracting fans of every genre with their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. They are as loyal to their fans as the fans are to them, as frontman Patrick Murphy states, “The fans are the ones that have given us this life. We’re here for them.”

The Egg Presents: Ragas in Motion, The Egg, Albany, 6pm

Ragas in Motion is an immersive celebration of Indian dance and music, tracing the timeless connection between movement, melody and storytelling. This special night showcases a dynamic journey through Indian dance forms, from the elegance of classical traditions like Bharatanatyam and Kathak to contemporary, modern interpretations. Witness how ancient and modern worlds converge, as dancers bring to life the spiritual and emotional depth of music and storytelling through motion.

Featuring the outstanding, innovative artistry of Barkha Patel, a visionary Kathak dancer and choreographer; Ishita Mili, a choreographer seamlessly integrating hip-hop, contemporary, and Indian dance forms to tell powerful stories: and Ravish Momin, a pioneering percussionist blending South Asian traditions with cutting-edge global rhythms.

Opening the night are performances by local Bharatanatyam dance schools Alapana Arts (Lavanya Raghuraman) & Mudra School of Dance (Mathangi Srinivasan).

Emma’s Revolution W/ Special Guest Lisa Gutkin, Fiddle, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

“Pat’s songs will be sung well into the 22nd century”
Pete Seeger (on All Things Considered, PBS)

“Fervent and heartfelt” -New York Times

“Beauty, power and ferocity all mixed up with hope and love”
KZUM-FM

Award-winning singer-songwriter-guitarists EMMA’S REVOLUTION [Pat Humphries, Sandy O] have long harnessed the power of music to shine a light on cultural issues and promoted the power of people together working toward peace, environmental justice and human rights. Their reach is wide; their powerful songs have been sung for the Dalai Lama, praised and sung by folk icons Pete Seeger, Ronnie Gilbert and Holly Near, among scores of others.
With soaring harmonies and genre-defying eclecticism, their music provides an uprising of truth and hope for these unsettled times.

Broadway Rave, Empire Underground, Albany, 9pm

The Broken Hearted, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm

The BrokenHearted takes you on a musical journey of the music of Tom Petty.

Stella Rose @ The Eleven at Lark Hall (FREE Show), Lark Hall, 6pm

Meet “Stella Rose”, a gateway to the timeless tunes of the Jerry Garcia Band and the Grateful Dead, where the spirit of the music lives on. The group’s harmonious blend resonates with authenticity and genuine love for the music.Bryan Gautie, the mastermind behind the strings leads the way playing soulful guitar and lead vocals. Jess Bowan (Fiddle/Vocals) each a seasoned performer, join forces to weave a tapestry that captures the essence of these iconic bands.Percussionist Pete Andriakos drives the group adding his rhythmic pulse to the mix, while infusing each performance with an infectious energy.Jill Gautie completes the ensemble. Known for her captivating stage presence and harmonies that literally dance around the music.With roots extending from The Wheel, The NoLaNauts, and House of Saturn, the Stella Rose collaboration invites you on a musical journey that transcends time, keeping the flame of Jerry Garcia’s spirit burning bright.

Flashmob w/ Wave and Prophet, Putnam Place, Saratoga Springs, 9pm

The Boombox Series returns to Putnam Place, featuring another 360º performance by some of the world’s top artists alongside the area’s beloved local talent. Anticipate an evening filled with foot-stomping rhythms and mesmerizing visuals. Dive into a rave community dedicated to the core values of our culture: Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect!

Cliff Eberhardt, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-9:30pm

Eberhardt blends pop, folk, & jazz with masterful lyrics. A Greenwich Village icon, his songs are covered by legends like Richie Havens.

“The missing link between Paul McCartney and Cole Porter” – Seth Rogovoy

Eberhardt’s guitar and piano melodies range from pop to folk to old-style jazz, with lyrics that find fresh, incisive ways to address the familiar themes of life gone good and bad. From melancholy to sweet optimism, Cliffs songs are the product of a mature and tested performer with the highest level of craftsmanship. A driving force of the Greenwich Village New Folk movement and beloved by his peers, Cliff’s songs have been covered by Richie Havens, Buffy St. Marie, Erasure, Lucy Kaplansky and the folk superstar band “Cry, Cry, Cry” (Dar Williams, Richard Shindell, Lucy Kaplansky).

Can’t make it in person? Stream the show live at Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy two weeks access with your live stream ticket.

Flatwounds | Post No Bills | Take Steps | Unintelligents, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 8pm-11:30pm

Hellseeker Goth Nite, No Fun, Troy, 8pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

3/28 10:00 PM Boombox- Putnam Place

3/28 10:30 AM Folk Club Kids- Caffe Lena

3/28 5:00 PM Josh Clvenstine- Dancing Grain Farm Brewery

3/28 5:30 PM Jay Yager- Tinney’s Tavern

3/28 5:30 PM Maggie Doherty & Katy Dwyer- Prime at Saratoga National

3/28 5:30 PM Rob Aronstein- Wishing Well

3/28 6:00 PM Christine Spero- Panza’s

3/28 6:00 PM Flying Rob & Friends- Indian Ladder Farms

3/28 6:00 PM Keith Pray Trio- Cock & Bull

3/28 6:00 PM Keri Alonzo & Jay Yager- Henry’s Tavern

3/28 6:00 PM Matt Evans- Spa City Tap & Barrel

3/28 6:00 PM On Tap Duo- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park

3/28 6:00 PM Pat Decker- Scarlet Knife

3/28 6:00 PM Rich Ortiz- The Hidaway

3/28 6:00 PM Seth WardenInn at Saratoga

3/28 6:00 PM Stella Rose- Eleven at Lark Hall

3/28 6:00 PM Steve Candlen- Thirsty Owl

3/28 6:00 PM Tooty & The Motherplucker- Carsons Woodside Tavern

3/28 6:00 PM Tooty And The Motherpluckers- Powers Pub

3/28 6:00 PM Up The River Duo- Saratoga Winery

3/28 6:30 PM Chris Dollard- Diamond Club at Embassy Suites

3/28 6:30 PM Natalie Santini- Artisanal Brew Works

3/28 6:30 PM Ron Comstock- Other One Brewery

3/28 7:00 PM 18 Strings Of Trouble- Kraverie

3/28 7:00 PM Completely Different Band- Hometown Pub & Grub

3/28 7:00 PM Country Converts- Quarters

3/28 7:00 PM Juniper & Chris Carey- Peddlers Bar & Bistro

3/28 7:00 PM Matt O’Rourke- Bourbon Room

3/28 7:00 PM River Road Boys Trio- Holy Moses Tavern

3/28 7:00 PM Shine On- Principessa Elena

3/28 8:00 PM Cliff Eberhardt- Caffe Lena

3/28 8:00 PM Deadbeats- Nanola

3/28 8:00 PM DJ Postman-Misfit

3/28 8:00 PM Kate Stano Duo- Cooperstown Distilling Saratoga

3/28 8:00 PM The Brokenhearted- Rustic Barn Pub

3/28 8:30 PM Refrigerators- Vapor

3/28 9:00 PM Arch Stanton Quartet- Nine Maple

3/28 9:00 PM Hark with Erin Harkes- Van Slycks at Rivers Casino

3/28 9:30 PM Watchdog- Spa City Tap & Barrel

Saturday, March 29th

SIRSY with special guest Chad Hollister, The Linda, Albany, 7:30pm-10pm

Hailing from Upstate NY, SIRSY plays sassy singer-songwriter pop-rock with lots of heart and soul. Sirsy is known for their passionate, honest, heartfelt live performances that have a charming intensity, loads of stories from the road, and even some nerdy jokes. They can somehow make an audience sing along, dance, laugh, and cry – all at the same show. You will be moved.

Playing more than 200 shows per year all over the US, Sirsy is fronted by a charismatic, soulful, powerhouse of a lead vocalist. (Seriously, wait until you hear Mel sing!) Mel is also the band’s drummer (and she’s been featured in Modern Drummer) who simultaneously plays bass on a keyboard with her drumstick. She also plays piano, melodica, and the occasional badass flute solo too. Mel’s bandmate, husband, co-writer, & bestie is Rich Libutti. Rich masterfully plays a well-loved and road worn Rickenbacker through a pedal board full of vintage effects. He sounds like 3 guitarists all on his own at live shows. Rich also plays bass (and at live shows often does it on a pedal board with his feet). These 2 multi-instrumentalists manage to sound like a full band and somehow do it all with big smiles on their faces. Their clever smart songs have more hooks than a tackle box, with lyrics that center around empowerment and resilience. Fans have supported the duo through the pandemic, their 11 records, and Mel’s 2 bouts with cancer. Every show is like a celebration for this couple and their fans. Come celebrate life with them!

Kathy Griffin, The Egg, Albany, 8pm

Presented by SLP Concerts

Kathy Griffin is a two-time Emmy and Grammy Award winning comedian, television star, best-selling author and advocate known for her biting satire and fearless comedy. The legendary performer holds the Guinness Book of World Records for writing and starring in an unprecedented 20 televised stand-up specials.

Kathy is perhaps best known for her hit Bravo series, Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, which aired for 6 years and won 2 Emmys. Kathy starred on NBC’s Suddenly Susan and guest starred on Seinfeld, Law & Order: SVU, Glee, You, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. She has lent her unique voice to animated characters in Shrek Forever After, The Simpsons, American Dad, Futurama and Dilbert. Kathy co-produced and co-hosted CNN’s New Year’s Eve special, with Anderson Cooper for 10 years.

Kathy’s memoir, Official Book Club Selection: A Memoir According to Kathy Griffin, debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller List. Her second book, Kathy Griffin’s Celebrity Run-Ins: My A-Z Index, was also a New York Times Best Seller.

Kathy is a passionate advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, women, other disenfranchised groups, and is a cancer survivor herself.

Price Chopper/Market 32 Dance Competition & Step Show, The Palace Theatre, Albany, 6pm

Price Chopper/Market 32 Dance Competition & Step Show features some of the best dance, step and stroll teams from the Capital Region and beyond for an afternoon of high energy performances. The Dance Competition & Step Show is one of the most anticipated annual events in the area.
Competitive Dance as performed in the Capital Region and the choreographed stroll and step routines need to be experienced to be fully appreciated. The quick moves and split-second changes showcase just how much time and energy is put into the choreography. Beyond its entertainment value, the event is also highly educational as it relates to the concepts and themes of identity, culture, environment and society and their role in why these organizations came about and why they still exist today. The entertainment grabs your attention and draws you into wanting to learn more about these organizations and their history. This program and others like it offer participants not only a creative outlet, but also a chance to be a part of something bigger than themselves.

Schubert’s “Trout” Quintet, SPAC, Saratoga Springs, 3pm

The musicians of CMS, led by Artistic Director Wu Han, perform Schubert’s iconic and charismatic “Trout” quintet. Noted for its unique instrumentation and light-hearted nature the work has endured as one of the most significant pieces of the chamber repertoire.  The program begins with the often-overlooked music of Wilhelm Friedemann Bach (the oldest son of Johann Sebastian Bach) featuring his Fugue in F minor, arranged for string trio by none other than Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, whose Adagio and Fugue in C minor and joyful piano quartet in E-flat major round out the program.

Dog Man: the Musical, Proctor’s Theatre, Schenectady

Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club.

Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it’s time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO!! How hard could it be?

With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of Dav Pilkey’s beloved characters.

Passport Series: Moonlight Benjamin, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs

Rebellious Caribbean blues-rock from voodoo queen priestess.

A primal scream, a mystifying and mystical musical mixture, almost shamanic, an incantation of liberation in the midst of raging guitars and propulsive drumming. As a longtime favorite of Martin Gore (Depeche Mode) and Iggy Pop, the Haitian vodou priestess Moonlight Benjamin explores the roots of blues and rock in this new opus. Carried by a deeper and darker sound, and by the unique voice of Moonlight, influenced by Alabama Shakes, Oumou Sangaré, and Dr John, the album Wayo is a primal scream, a mystifying and mystical musical mixture, almost shamanic, an incantation of liberation in the midst of raging guitars and propulsive drumming.

Seasons Skateshop – 15 Year Anniversary, Empire Underground, Albany, 8pm

The Emo Night Tour, Empire Live, Abany, 8pm

Schoolhouse Rock LIVE! Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 11am

THE BELOVED CARTOONS COME TO LIFE ON STAGE, BRINGING CLASSROOM LESSONS, CATCHY TUNES AND BIG LAUGHS TO YOUNG AND OLD ALIKE!

A pop culture phenomenon comes to the stage in Schoolhouse Rock Live! The Emmy Award-winning 1970s Saturday morning cartoon series that taught history, grammar, math and more through clever, tuneful songs, is a musical delight for all ages. Join us for an electrifying journey through the world of knowledge, where classic hits like “Conjunction Junction,” “I’m Just a Bill,” and “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly” come to life in a toe-tapping, heart-warming experience. Following daily matinees for Capital Regin schools for this month, performances on March 29 & 30 will be open to the public for all to purchase affordable tickets & enjoy!

Shannon Roy, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 7pm-10pm

A voice with grit, a story with heart—Shannon Roy brings her powerful blend of rock, blues, and folk to Rustic Barn Pub. Shannon’s music is raw, soulful, and unapologetically real. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music and storytelling!

Happy Hour with Monkey & the Crowbar at the Eleven (FREE show) The Eleven, Albany, 6pm-8pm

Monkey and the Crowbar have been playing for years in the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region. Their acoustic vibe of originals and Grateful Dead adjacent tunes makes for a hoot of a time. Fronted by Todd Herringshaw(guitar, vocals), band members Tree Casullo(percussion, vocals), Joe Sinchak(fiddle, mandolin, vocals) and Sharon Charles(bass) give an old-timey spin to tunes we all know and love.

Live Dead & Brothers Perform The Music of Grateful Dead & Allman Bros, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm-11:59pm

Live Dead & Brothers: An All-Star Celebration of Grateful Dead & Allman Brothers

Prepare to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the golden era of psychedelic blues and the seeds of the ‘jam band’ scene as Live Dead & Brothers takes the stage. Comprised of actual and legacy members from the extended Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers families, this exceptional ensemble is set to revive the timeless magic of the late 1960s and early 1970s, bringing fans an experience like no other.

The line-up is pedigree and generational featuring Berry Duane Oakley from The Allman Betts Band,

Mark Karan from Bob Weir & Rat Dog, Scott Guberman from Phil Lesh & Friends, Pete Lavezzoli from Oteil & Friends and very special guest, slide guitarist, Steve Kimock. Together, these accomplished musicians skillfully recreate the magic of the Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers Band’s co-billed concerts during the period of 1969 to1973. Their performances capture the raw energy, improvisational prowess, and soul-stirring melodies that defined an era of musical innovation.

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.

Mark & Jill, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 8pm-9:30pm

Eddies Blues Artists of the Year Mark & Jill blend gospel, jazz & blues for soulful originals—New Orleans meets Austin vibes.

Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards Blues Artists of the Year. Steeped in the roots of gospel, jazz, and blues, Mark & Jill’s music is New Orleans meets Austin on original songs dealing with both the hard realities of life and the joys of being alive.

GOLEM / Gas Leak / The Strip / Super Ego and the ID, No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

3/29 3:00 PM Zach Nightinggale- Klam’r Tavern & Marina

3/29 5:30 PM Carmen Lookshire Duo- Scarlet Knife

3/29 6:00 PM Duo- Carsons Woodside Tavern

3/29 6:00 PM Johnny Gonzoles- Schwalbacher Brewing

3/29 6:00 PM Russ Kennedy- Powers Pub

3/29 6:00 PM Russ Kennedy- Powers Pub

3/29 6:30 PM Justin Joyner- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park

3/29 7:00 PM Dave Hart- Emack & Bolios

3/29 7:00 PM Hardcore- Unihog

3/29 7:00 PM Whiskey Highway- Cherry Plain Square #17

3/29 8:00 PM Doug Villano Band- September’s Too

Sunday, March 30th

ESYO Symphony Orchestra, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy, 3pm

In this concert, a collaboration with the Rensselaer Orchestra and its brilliant conductor Robert Whalen, we present “Fluid Realities: An Orchestral Exploration of Berlioz’ Symphonie Fantastique.” Berlioz’s music tells the story of someone whose emotions flow from real-life experiences into a dreamlike world where reality starts to shift. As the music unfolds, this flow between the real and the imagined creates a journey through wild mood changes and vivid dreams. The result is a thrilling ride where fantasy and reality blur together, creating a soundscape where nothing remains fixed.

Also featuring the 2025 Lois Lyman Concerto Competition Winner.

The Egg Presents: Laurie Berkner, The Egg, Albany, 7pm

Bestselling, award-winning children’s recording artist Laurie Berkner is widely recognized as the uncrowned queen of children’s music. Laurie’s albums, released on her own label, have been bestsellers on a chart typically dominated by movie soundtracks and major label compilations. With more than 1 billion total streams, an average of more than 22 million monthly streams, nearly 450 million YouTube channel views, and millions of CDs and DVDs sold, Laurie’s songs have become beloved classics for children worldwide. Her debut DVD, which went quadruple platinum, was the first-ever indie children’s music DVD to enter Billboard’s Top Music Video chart at #1. Laurie’s 16th album, A Laurie Berkner Halloween, will be released in September 2024.

Gabriel Iglesias “Don’t Worry Be Fluffy”, MVP Arena, Albany, 7:30pm

Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is one of the world’s most successful stand-up comedians. He recently became the second highest grossing touring comedian and is one of the most watched comedians on YouTube with over 1.9 billion views and over 32.5 million fans across social media.

Iglesias has been included in The Hollywood Reporter’s “Top 40 Comedy Players” issue alongside comedy giants Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock and Lorne Michaels and was also honored with the cover of Variety’s comedy issue. The comedian has had the distinct honor of being one of the few to headline and sell-out Madison Square Garden in New York, Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and The Sydney Opera House in Australia.

The Brokes – A Tribute To The Strokes, Empire Underground, 7pm

Schoolhouse Rock LIVE! Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 2pm

THE BELOVED CARTOONS COME TO LIFE ON STAGE, BRINGING CLASSROOM LESSONS, CATCHY TUNES AND BIG LAUGHS TO YOUNG AND OLD ALIKE!

A pop culture phenomenon comes to the stage in Schoolhouse Rock Live! The Emmy Award-winning 1970s Saturday morning cartoon series that taught history, grammar, math and more through clever, tuneful songs, is a musical delight for all ages. Join us for an electrifying journey through the world of knowledge, where classic hits like “Conjunction Junction,” “I’m Just a Bill,” and “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly” come to life in a toe-tapping, heart-warming experience. Following daily matinees for Capital Regin schools for this month, performances on March 29 & 30 will be open to the public for all to purchase affordable tickets & enjoy!

“A Joyful Noise!” Gospel Dinner with Soulist Garland Nelson & Friends, Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs, 5pm-7pm

Dinner and soul-cleansing music by soulist Garland Nelson & Friends.

Saratoga and the entire Capital District, will be thrilled to learn that A Joyful Noise is back every month this year! This is a soul-cleansing dinner hour of music directed by Soulist Garland Nelson. Nelson will be joined by a variety of his friends who are musicians and singers for a late afternoon of joyful noise. Songs range from traditional gospel and contemporary church music to soulful pop classics. Audience participation is downright thunderous. It’s impossible to stay quiet or in your seat as Garland Nelson stirs up the Spirit!

Dinner served to your table is an integral part of this cultural event and is included in your ticket price. Your plate will be heaped with traditional food from the Carribbean. Coffee and tea is included. Caffe Lena’s drink and dessert menu will be available a la carte.

This event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle.

Autoignition / Unseemlier / Sunbloc / Cinnamon, No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

3/30 12:00 PM Jukebox Rebellion- Carsons Woodside Tavern

3/30 3:30 PM Chris Dollard- Hank Hudson Brewing

3/30 5:00 PM Bobbie Van Detta- Charlton Tavern

3/30 7:00 PM Arthur Bezo- Unihog

 

Week Twelve: Jesse Sample’s Freak of the Week “Moonlight”

By
Staff
-
0

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

This is Jesse Sample. The vampire has long captivated the human imagination. No other creature of the night is so easily adorned with romance and mystery. Most vampires appear human and can alter their appearance, at will, into a form that puts mortal beings at ease. They can tempt their unassuming prey with ancient skill and take to the sky at the drop of a dime, or droplet of holy water.

But within the vampire exists a host of contradictions. While being immortal he is also locked out of the living world in many ways. Finding true love requires the possibility of loss. I’ve never encountered a tale of a vampire infecting a beautiful woman and then procreating with her to generate a pack of cute little Romanian babies. It doesn’t go down like that.

Even with all the freedoms afforded to this gentleman terror, he is always bound to his prey. We mortals have the freedom to die, which sounds weird, but we get to see if something else exists on the other side of this. If the Hindus are right, we get to give it another go. Not the vampire. He remains stuck in the world of need and addiction long after the thrill of the hunt has worn off. He will live to watch the sun die and then starve in the cold that remains.

But for now, he remains the king of going out in Saturday night.

Thanks to all of you tuned into RadioRadioX. This is the Freak of the week, “Moonlight.”

1...220221222...638Page 221 of 638