Swan song performances for two area bands at Empire Underground this past Sunday. Both Somewhere to Call Home and Breathe the Skyline played their final shows. (In Trenches, Torn Out, and Killcount rounded out the bill – look for galleries of their sets shortly.)
Photography by Jake Fox.
Improv Spaces co-directors, harpist Alex Chang and percussionist Adam Forman, as part of the Rock City Falls Trio, are working with multi-instrumentalist and visual artist Manuel J. Perez III to create “Sonic Explorations in Troy” with participation from the Troy community. In December, the public was invited to share their photos, sounds, objects, and memories about Troy at a community potluck at Mt. Ida Preservation Hall. The artists are now incorporating those collective joys, trials, and experiences of the city into this music and visual art project.
On February 25, they presented the work-in-progress at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, taking feedback from the public. The piece will then debut at the 2025 Improv Spaces Music Festival on Saturday, June 7th at the Round Lake Auditorium.
Photography by Timothy Reidy.
Dmitry Wild – Interview – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.
RRX: Like songs, every artist has a unique feeling about their first show. What was your first show like? Was it your best show? If not, what was your best show like?
DW: Yes the first notable show with Table Dreams I played that really made a lasting impression on me, was at a good ol’ CBGB where I wore Mozart wig and even though I was drunk as a skunk and I didn’t remember much but there was one moment when I started singing the first verse of my own version of an Immigrant Song and people just started singing along and the whole energy of that set was through the roof. Now I didn’t remember a thing luckily there was footage to prove it. J
The best show was probably upstaging the very band I used to listen to as a teen called Agatha Kristie, so the show was at The Cutting Room and the room was full of people and then they came up to me and said that was great, even better than the old guys that played after you. I smiled.
Although, I will tell you about the first show at Hudson as myself, I was supposed to play a Halloween Show at Hudson Brewing in 2021 I think and the drummer the same day calls me and says, “I can’t play I got Covid,” so I was thinking should I cancel or not, I decided to try my luck and I posted an ad on Albany’s Musicians’ wall on the same day at mid-day, “Need a drummer tonight, Paid gig!”
Guess who answers, Tommy freaking Love, in his deep voice on the phone, “I will do it kid. Send me the songs” so I did and then Tommy shows up in his old Honda and a car full of drums. No rehearsal no nothing, we played a loud Halloween show full of fog machines and Rock-n-Roll. It was brilliant.
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?
DW: I used to care about genres and as I had 10 different bands, I tried to adhere to some specific style , this one is new wave, this is indie, this is goth and I followed some bands as inspiration, but then after the Pandemic as I went to just start releasing my music under my own name, Dmitry Wild I stopped caring really, and I just focused on what I loved, which is playing guitar and performing and just trying to be honest with myself and I decided to play whatever style of song or inspiration I had at the moment. I knew my first few bands I deeply admired were The Doors, but my current style is no style as long as it’ got guitars in it and most importantly deep lyrics I am living though it, but it at any given time it could be a mix of Garage Rock, Psych Rock, Vaudeville, Blues, R and B and a bit of Punk.
RRX: It’s a lot of fun living in the present, but we all collect memories and give birth to dreams. We’re talking dreams here. Where you see yourself next year? In the next five years?
DW: Well good question, in 1 year, I would love to have a successful row of shows to promote my upcoming vinyl around New York and Canada. I would love to start expanding to shows to Nashville and New Orleans. In 5 years, I def want to travel to Europe with my band and visit all those beautiful places and theatres. But essentially, the dream of every musician and an artist is to start every day and focus on your art and to never think of lack of money cramping our daily goals.
RRX: “The best laid plans of mice and men…” I don’t really know the quote, but I know this one; sh*t happens. When we least expect it, calamity befalls us. Sometimes just comic inconvenience. Please tell us a story about some comic inconvenience that happened to you whilst performing?
DW: Oh jeez, where do I start, I guess stepping on the mic cable at CBGB and knocking part of my tooth out and then turning around to my guitar player questioning him if I am missing a tooth was a rather classic punk rock show occurrence. Later, there was one bloodier moment when I had a friend, a Japanese Saxophone player join for a few songs, and he would get so much into the music, he treated it like being a Samurai. The trouble was he didn’t know what to do with himself, and that one time he decided jumping back at the drummer was a good idea, so he did but at that moment the crash cymbal went into the drummer’s head, and that put a pretty big cut on his forehead and as we finished the song, the drummer stood up and blood went squirting from his forehead all over his face. It was bloody crazy. Luckily he got stiches on his forehead in time.
RRX: What do you think is the most poorly understood thing about music, or the music you play?
DW: People don’t get the fact how metaphysical music is. How it creates energy in the air and, energy carries a feeling and that feeling has imprints of musician’s experiences in it and that is what we infuse into our listeners which is the most phenomenal thing and yet so poorly rewarded nowadays. The music is the art of energy and vibration. Even painting is a complete circle. You throw paint on a canvas you are done, and the completed canvas creates a feeling, with music you have to play it to hear it, to feel it to dance to it, and then to see it to really get a shot of that person’s energy. Quite metaphysical stuff.
RRX: What would you like fans to know before they come to see you play? (No basic stuff; get specific.)
DW: I am shy and sensitive as fuck and get overwhelmed easily, so I may sound and look like a gangstsa from the 1800’s but I love people and I mean well.
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.
DW: Shit well that’s gotta be that one time when my wife said, well for Rock-n-Roll is my Business video you should film a day in the life of the Devil, so I thought oh man the Devil needs to live in a castle, so we went looking for a castle, which sounds crazy but we found one and it’s in the music video, “Rock-n-Roll is my Business” Then Jesse from Killswitch Engage starred in it as himself and Purple as a Pole Dancer, and Tryst as Devil’s associate and Byron as the priest. It ended up being a hilarious and punchy video.
RRX: We let it out differently when we play music. The happy, sad, good and back; it can all be put out musically. Overall, do you feel better when you sing about the better times, or the worser times? Is there a difference you can describe?
DW: Better or worst times it’s all part of the journey, I always try to leave a positive message at the end, to save someone from the noose if they are in one, just remember keep it wild, there is no set plan and no one is perfect and all else will be peanut shells.
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?
DW: On one hand, I would be a writer and for that I think a café would be good, I always talk about it but owning one seems like way too much work, but I love coffee and I would convert it to dinning and to a performance venue, so it would be decorated all over with weird antique couches and Nick Cave would play on the radio, but yeah I would just sit in my café and write, but at the back I would have a 2 car garage to work on motorcycles and vintage cars.
Singin’ Guru – An Xperience Column – by Jeff and Crystal Moore.
Dear Singin’ Guru,
I’ve been taking voice lessons for six months, and I want to know if I’m ready to perform. How can I tell?
Signed,
Wondering
Dear Wondering,
Performance and lessons aren’t separate — they go hand in hand. Start performing as soon as possible in venues that match your current skill level. Arnold Schwarzenegger said that you should always compete in situations where you have a chance of success. You don’t have to win, but you need a fighting chance. The same applies to singing. If you’re completely unprepared and know you’ll fail, then it’s not time yet. But if you can reasonably sing the song, remember the lyrics, and present yourself confidently, then take the stage.
All musicians want that perfect performance, but those are rare, even for pros. What matters is readiness—and that doesn’t mean flawlessness. The real test of whether you’re ready to perform is:
That last point is critical. If you’re just starting out and sign up for America’s Got Talent, you’ve got the wrong audience. But if you’re singing at an open mic night, a coffee shop, or even a karaoke bar, then you’re in the right place. You grow into performance, so don’t wait until you think you’re “good enough” because that day will never come unless you start now.
If you’re serious about improving your performance skills, follow these seven key steps
Think of performing like climbing a staircase. You’re always ready for the next step. As your skills improve, better venues will become the right venues. Start singing, start performing, and most importantly, keep going.
Forever Yours,
The Singin’ Guru
Dear Singin’ Guru,
My choir director says I’m an alto, but I LOVE Mariah Carey songs! Can I sing Mariah?
Yours Truly,
Mariah Lover
Dear Mariah Lover,
The short answer is yes! Your choir classification doesn’t define your full vocal potential. Unfortunately, traditional singing pedagogy hasn’t always kept up with modern vocal science, so many singers believe they are locked into a specific range. Voice coach Jaime Vendera says, “The biggest mistake singers make is assuming their current voice is their permanent voice. You don’t know what your voice can do until you push it systematically for at least two to three years.”
Your choir director likely placed you as an alto based on what they hear in your speaking or natural chest voice. Choir directors often look for “pretty” voices—ones that blend well, have moderate volume, and fit into the needs of the ensemble. This classification is useful for choir balance, but it does not reflect your full vocal potential.
Dr. Ingo Titze, a leading voice scientist, states: “The ability to extend range is not fixed at birth. With proper training, nearly all singers can increase their range by an octave or more.” This means that even if you are assigned an alto part in choir, you may have the ability to develop high, soprano-like notes — or even hit whistle tones like Mariah Carey. Research has shown that vocalists can stretch their tessitura (comfortable singing range) through structured exercises and technique.
Dr. Robert Sataloff, otolaryngologist and voice expert, notes: “Vocal folds are like any other muscle group — they adapt to the way they are trained. With effort, most singers can sing well beyond their initial range.” This means that someone classified as a bass could train into the soprano range with dedicated vocal work.
While choir is an excellent environment for harmony, teamwork, and discipline, it does not develop certain key vocal techniques needed for pop, rock, or R&B singing. Most choirs focus on either chest voice or head voice, often neglecting mixed voice—the critical blend needed for powerful high notes.
If you try to sing “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston using only chest voice, you will likely struggle. But with mixed voice training, those notes become accessible. Additionally, choirs don’t typically train vocal effects such as: belting (powerful, chest-dominant high notes); runs & riffs (fast, intricate note changes); whistle register (Mariah Carey’s signature technique); and vocal distortion & grit (common in rock and soul music).
A common mistake is treating choir singing and lead singing as the same discipline. They are almost as different as driving a car vs. piloting a boat — both get you places, but they require different handling. Choir singing tends to follow a classical approach, with precise blending and vocal balance. Lead singing, however, requires individuality, vocal stamina, and emotional connection.
If you want to sing Mariah-like songs, you’ll need to train specifically for those styles. This means: 1) developing mixed voice to navigate high notes; 2) strengthening vocal support for sustained belting; 3) Learning agility for fast vocal runs; and 4) practicing vocal effects used in pop and rock.
Enjoy choir for what it is — a structured, beautiful art form — but don’t let it define you. Being told you are an alto doesn’t mean you can’t develop a powerhouse high range. If you’re serious about expanding your abilities, work with a vocal coach who specializes in contemporary singing styles. The bottom line: your voice classification is just a starting point, not a final destination. Keep training, keep exploring, and don’t be afraid to belt those Mariah notes!
Yours Truly,
The Singin’ Guru
Show Detective.
Hailing from historic County Waterford, Danú is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. Their standing room only concerts throughout Ireland are true events featuring high-energy performances and a glorious mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire.
Hailing from historic County Waterford, Danú is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. The group’s standing room only concerts throughout Ireland are true events featuring high-energy performances and a glorious mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire.
The Lustre Kings: Igniting rockabilly dance floors with their irresistible unbeatable tunes, they’re the ultimate soundtrack to your retro dance party!
Hailing from the rolling hills of Washington County in Upstate NY, Laura Leigh gained her following by busking and singing around every late night campfire in the capital region. Quickly becoming what Greg Bell claimed “The new darling of the Albany music scene”, LL is known for her archetypal songwriting, Appalachian style vocals, and her evocative stories that may or may not be true.
Blending an eclectic mix of rock, old time, country and blues styles, Lucy has toured and performed with a number of songwriters and groups across the US, including Berklee World Strings and the Kronos quartet. She can be seen playing locally with the Brule County Bad Boys.
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.
Come join us as we celebrate New York State Music’s 10 year anniversary, with a special performance by Phish tribute, REPRISE. For this show, REPRISE will “reprise” Phish’s 7/10/94 performance from SPAC.
REPRISE — a band that formed to *reprise* the Phish experience, is an all-star New England band. Cal Kehoe, longtime front man for Pink Talking Fish, helms the enterprise on guitar. Adrian Tramontano (Twiddle, Kung Fu and The Breakfast) masters the drums. Scott Chasolen chairmans the boards for the project, bringing years of experience with The Machine, a Pink Floyd tribute. Multi-instrumentalist and composer Chris DeAngelis (The Machine, Kung Fu and The Breakfast) rounds out the foursome on bass. The time is near, the mission’s clear — get ready to blaze on with REPRISE!
In this course we will be exploring the fundamentals of being a bass player in an ensemble setting. We will dive into topics that will help shape each musician’s approach to practicing and strengthen their understanding of their relationship with their instrument. This series of group lessons will be a lot of fun as we uncover together the aspects of this instrument that make it so enjoyable to play. We will also focus on the absolute essentials of being a rock solid bassist including: language, sound production, time and tone, among others.
In this course we will be exploring the fundamentals of being a bass player in an ensemble setting. We will dive into topics that will help shape each musician’s approach to practicing and strengthen their understanding of their relationship with their instrument. This series of group lessons will be a lot of fun as we uncover together the aspects of this instrument that make it so enjoyable to play. We will also focus on the absolute essentials of being a rock solid bassist including: language, sound production, time and tone, among others.
The story of Rex Fowler and his band Aztec Two-Step is intertwined with the history of folk/rock music in America. Originating from a chance meeting at an “open mic night” in Boston in 1971, then taking their name from a poem by beat poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Rex and his former music partner Neal Shulman went on to record four albums on Elektra & RCA Records, helping to usher the music of the 60’s into the 1970s and beyond.
3/7 5:00 PM Russ Kennedy- Wheatfields Clifton Park
3/7 6:00 PM Chuck Ayers- Powers Pub
3/7 6:00 PM Jacksland- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park
3/7 6:00 PM Pat Decker- Scarlet Knife
3/7 6:00 PM Tim Wechgelaer & Chris Carey- Cock & Bull
3/7 6:30 PM Joe Archambeault- Other One Brewery
3/7 7:00 PM Alex Riddell- Bye I Brewing
3/7 7:00 PM Dan Bernstein- Emack & Bolios
3/7 7:00 PM Harmonic Duo- Peddlers Bar & Bistro
3/7 7:00 PM POGO- The Bunker Mohawk Harbor
3/7 8:00 PM Lustre Kings- Rustic Barn Pub
3/7 8:00 PM Nolanauts- Nanola
3/7 9:00 PM Coverups- Centre St Pub
At a moment when musical streams are crossing with unprecedented frequency, it’s crucial to remember that throughout its history, New Orleans has been the point at which sounds and cultures from around the world converge, mingle, and resurface, transformed by the Crescent City’s inimitable spirit and joie de vivre. Nowhere is that idea more vividly embodied than in the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, which has held the torch of New Orleans music aloft for more than 60 years, all the while carrying it enthusiastically forward as a reminder that the history they were founded to preserve is a vibrantly living history.
Blake Shelton Friends & Heroes 2025 is coming to MVP Arena on Saturday, March 8 with Emily Ann Roberts opening the show and special appearances by Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, and Trace Adkins!
Saturday • Mar 08, 2025 • 7:00pm
Considered the most prominent flamenco dance company in the United States, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana will make its SPAC debut with the world premiere of QUINTO ELEMENTO (Fifth Element), a new evening-length work set to an original score of live music. Choreographed by Patricia Guerrero, the new work explores the fifth element of the earth: ether, the essence that makes up the space around us. Hailed as a master of tradition who dares to deconstruct the art form, Guerrero draws on her deep knowledge of traditional flamenco but pushes past the restriction of its rules. In doing so, she seeks to extract the essence of flamenco itself, its invisible fifth element, and make it tangible to audiences.
Experience the electrifying energy of Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band with Brave Strangers! This powerhouse fourteen-piece ensemble delivers an unforgettable tribute, featuring an eight-piece core band, a dynamic three-piece female backing section, and the thunderous “Runaway Train” horn trio. At the heart of the show is lead vocalist Tony Paulino, whose voice authentically captures the unmistakable sound of Bob Seger himself. Combine this with an outstanding stage presence and a setlist filled with timeless rock ‘n’ roll classics, and Brave Strangers will take you on a musical journey that perfectly recreates the magic and excitement of a Bob Seger concert.
Finding that they shared similar frustrations about the emerging brass band scene in New York City, co-founders Alex Harris and Ally Chapel came together to form a group dedicated to showcasing the talents of female musicians in a landscape that was dominated by male musicians and bandleaders. After debuting in March 2019, Brass Queens grew to be a fixture in the local music scene and was dubbed “the hardest working band in town” by their peers. The Queens gained a dedicated following through outdoor performances on the streets of Brooklyn and playing pop-up events in their community through the pandemic.
This Celtic influenced contemporary JAM band will get you in the St.Patricks Day spirit!
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.
3/8 6:00 PM Chris Carey- Scarlet Knife
3/8 6:00 PM Don Kelly- Powers Pub
3/8 6:00 PM Jay Yager- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park
3/8 6:00 PM Matty Finn- Carsons Woodside Tavern
3/8 6:30 PM Brad Westcott- Other One Brewery
3/8 7:00 PM Capital Region Vocal Jazz Vanguard- Stella’s Pasta Bar at The Van Dyck
3/8 7:00 PM Jatoba wsg Meat Chickens- Unihog
3/8 7:00 PM Kilashandra- Rustic Barn Pub
3/8 7:00 PM Scott Bravo- Emack & Bolios
3/8 8:00 PM Out Of Office- September’s Too
3/8 8:00 PM Southbound Renegade- Nanola
Albany Pro Musica will present the Capital Region premiere of Considering Matthew Shepard, an evocative choral drama by Craig Hella Johnson. This poignant oratorio for chorus, soloists, and chamber orchestra tells the heartbreaking story of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man who was brutally murdered in Wyoming in 1998. In addition to the concert performance, APM will convene a series of community engagement opportunities that explore the important themes laid out in the oratorio.
Considered the most prominent flamenco dance company in the United States, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana will make its SPAC debut with the world premiere of QUINTO ELEMENTO (Fifth Element), a new evening-length work set to an original score of live music. Choreographed by Patricia Guerrero, the new work explores the fifth element of the earth: ether, the essence that makes up the space around us. Hailed as a master of tradition who dares to deconstruct the art form, Guerrero draws on her deep knowledge of traditional flamenco but pushes past the restriction of its rules. In doing so, she seeks to extract the essence of flamenco itself, its invisible fifth element, and make it tangible to audiences.
Join us for the inaugural performance of the “Sunday Jazz at UPH” series, featuring the exceptional Tarik Shah Quartet. Bassist, composer, and jazz educator Tarik Shah brings his profound artistry to Universal Preservation Hall, promising an evening of soulful and captivating jazz.
Born in the Bronx, Tarik Shah’s musical journey began at the age of twelve when his mother gifted him his first bass. By sixteen, he was studying under the legendary jazz bassist Slam Stewart. His early career saw him as a sought-after sideman, touring internationally with renowned artists such as Betty Carter, Ahmad Jamal, Randy Weston, and Abbey Lincoln. Notably, in 1992, he performed with the Duke Ellington Orchestra at President Bill Clinton’s inaugural ball. Now residing in New York’s Capital Region, Shah continues to perform in esteemed venues like Mezzrow and Smalls in New York City, while mentoring emerging musicians in the Albany area. He is currently working on his debut solo album, “Solitary Refinement,” featuring his original compositions.
Bluegrass Jams are for making new friends, sharing songs, playing and listening to blue grass and new-grass. All skin levels are welcome.
From North Carolina comes one of the state’s most beloved musical outfits, Chatham Rabbits.
When you see North Carolina folk duo Chatham Rabbits on stage, you’re getting the real deal: heartfelt lyrics over guitar and banjo, an instant connection with audiences, and banter that can only come from a married duo that spends way too much time together but still manages to be in love.
The one, the only, the legend – Eddie Spaghetti from SUPERSUCKERS is back!!!! He hasn’t done a solo tour in over 5 years and here’s your shot to grab a rare performance.
He’ll be performing solo material, covers, requests, sing-a-longs and, of course, the hits and the classics we’ve all come to know, love and expect from Supersuckers like Pretty Fucked Up and Born with a Tail. Wouldn’t be the same with those!!
Special guest is “Metal” Marty Chandler from – you guessed it – Supersuckers! The guitar wizard and backstage comedian, has his own solo record out too! He’ll be playing his Greatest Hits as well as joining in with Eddie.
3/9 1:00 PM Matty Finn- Other One Brewery
3/9 3:30 PM Russ Kennedy- Hank Hudson Brewing
3/9 4:00 PM Grand Central Trio- Carsons Woodside Tavern
3/9 5:00 PM Bobbie Van Detta- Charlton Tavern
3/9 5:30 PM Bluegrass Jam- Rustic Barn Pub
3/9 7:00 PM American Name Band- Unihog
Cannabicity to Debut Region’s First Official Management Advisory Service for CAURD License-Holding Individuals
Cannabicity, a woman-founded recreational cannabis dispensary in Schenectady’s Mohawk Harbor and home to the most consumer-focused cannabis shopping experience in the Capital Region, will debut its new venture: “Powered By Cannabicity,” a management advisory service to help CAURD licensees left behind by New York’s cannabis retail market rollout.
“Powered By Cannabicity” will bring to bear the experience of Cannabicity’s real estate, retail and small business owner team members to assist the hundreds of New York CAURD licensees. A majority of these justice-impacted individuals, who carry prior cannabis-related criminal records, have been unable to access the opportunity afforded them by licensure in New York’s retail cannabis market.
Cannabicity will announce the new venture and its first partner CAURD licensee during a ceremonial ribbon cutting and cannabis grand opening at 220 Harborside Drive in Schenectady’s Mohawk Harbor.
Cannabicity was founded by Barbara Vaughn, a Hudson Valley native who has successfully used THC in navigating a debilitating and rare neurological disorder. Cannabicity is designed as the most upscale cannabis store in the region and strives for an uplifting and relaxing customer experience. Knowledgeable product guides match each visitor with their preferred cannabis experience.
WHEN: March 6, 2025 – 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Cannabicity
220 Harborside Drive
Schenectady, NY 12305
WHO: Barbara Vaughn, Cannabicity Founder & Board President
Pete Bardunias, Capital Region Chamber of Commerce
Schenectady-area elected officials
Business and philanthropic partners
About Cannabicity: A one-of-a-kind woman-founded dispensary, Cannabicity is a premier destination for cannabis products in Schenectady and New York’s Capital Region. Founded upon strong family values and a commitment to serve, Cannabicity’s mission is to offer a non-judgmental, approachable and responsible environment for consumers to purchase exceptional cannabis-derived goods.
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Jesse Sample’s Freak of the Week airs EVERY WEDNESDAY at 6pm Eastern ONLY on RadioRadioX.com
This is Jesse Sample. What will the thing we call “love” look like in 20 years? We are human and we are imperfect. We get tired and clean and cold efficiency is not what motivates most of us. We bumble into situations, and we do our best to do the best we can. Our lives are learning curves.
What if there was an AI who you could date? For the sake of this rumination, let’s assume that it is human looking physically. This being could outthink any standard human and quickly identify patterns based on minute stimuli. It could learn, if it so chooses, what makes you tick and deliver you the thing you call “love” in seconds. This potential being could get you better than you get yourself.
It’s not far off. Machines will in very little time be able to address all our mommy issues and all our daddy issues, quickly, and in deep and complex ways. How can guy or a gal compete with that?
Maybe the thing we call “love” is about the struggle to convey what we feel for the world around us. Maybe the resolution of this struggle is not love. Maybe the very imperfections that we think hold us up, are what ultimately give us our purpose. Maybe love isn’t efficient in most contexts.
I’m rooting for “love” the way know it (which is all wildly different but human nonetheless) and I’m rooting for more of it.
Byrdhouse Presents‘ Twin Peaks Appreciation Party at No Fun featured DJ Dental Work and, of course, pie.
Photography by Timothy Reidy.
Unwanted Seat Mate – The Weird Side of the Internet – by Liam Sweeny.
There are lots of horror stories about airplane rides. Some are about the omnipresent dangers of crashes, both in air and on the ground, although those are only horror stories for survivors. And there’s all that can happen inside the cabin, from bad actors with box cutters to contagious pathogens to just people being freaky and weird. But on a layover flight to Doha, Qatar, Mitchell Ring and Jennifer Colin had a story that would raise the dead… well, they could’ve hoped.
To start with, there were a number of free seats throughout the plane, or at least a few; that’s important. So it was a 14 hour flight from Melbourne, Australia to Doha, which, for the couple, was a layover flight to a vacation in Italy. Ten of those hours were uneventful, nigh pleasant. Ring, a nervous flyer, wasn’t even nervous. Then a woman collapsed.
She was a large woman; this is also important, and in no critical way, as I am a large man, and I must type in solidarity. But she was a large woman. And try as the attendants did, she did not make it. Point of clarification, if you have four hours to go at 40,000 feet and you need CPR, the odds are not in your favor.
They tried to move her to business class, which must have been empty, but they had to settle for propping her up in the seat next to Ring and Colin, with a blanket over her.
Riding with a corpse for four hours. I’m not sure exactly what phobia you end up with after that. And like I said, there were open seats. Why they didn’t let the couple move is beyond the scope of this commentary. Probably within the scope of a lawsuit against the airline. I don’t know about pain, but they could score some cash for suffering at least.
Ben Hall – Capital Region Timekeepers – An Xperience Interview – by OP Callaghan.
This month, I’d like to introduce you to my friend Ben Hall. He’s a killer drummer with fast feet and busy hands, who is the force behind the Capital District band 10-50 Nightmare. Ben’s playing is heavy, with great timing and precision. Be sure to give his band a listen, or better yet, see them live. Ben is not only a great player but a terrific human being, whom I’m proud to call my friend. So, let’s welcome Ben Hall!
RRX: Great to see you, man! Thanks for giving us some time. Tell me how you got started behind the kit.
BH: I took an interest in music when I was in grade school. By the fifth grade, I decided drums and percussion would suit me best. I was 10 years old. Throughout high school, I made the commitment to play in different forms of band presentation, three of which were Concert Band, Marching Band, and Field Show Band. Mohonasen High School always did very well in competitions, and I was happy to be a part of that. I was elected Drum Captain my senior year. I bought my first drum set when I was 17. By that time, I had developed a great appreciation for Neil Peart’s drumming in Rush. Neil was who inspired me to start taking my playing more seriously.
RRX: Yeah, Neil has that effect on drummers and non-drummers alike! Do you come from a musical family?
BH: I think we all sort of come from a musical family. It’s inherent as human beings to gravitate towards music. For some of us, listening is not enough, and we take it further. At some point in my life, something inside me took hold, and I felt I had to become more involved. It’s the same type of energy that got me sent to the Principal’s office because I could not (for the life of me) stop tapping and drumming on my desk. I wasn’t doing it to be annoying. It was something in my subconscious that manifested itself into a habitual reflex.
RRX: S**t, I still do that, and my daughter has started doing it too! Do you play any other instruments?
BH: Aside from drums, the only other instrument I’ve ever played was classical guitar in college. I did fairly well, but it did not last more than two semesters.
RRX: Tell me about your first kit.
BH: My first drum kit was a red five-piece Premier APK. The drumline in high school was ranting and raving about Premier drums, so I figured I’d try them out. After I taught myself how to play an actual set of drums, I expanded that kit with a couple more toms and another bass drum. I had my first real sonic breakthrough when I upgraded the APK to the Premier Projectors. The shells were 100% birch and finished in red painted lacquer. I was amazed how much better they sounded!
RRX: Beautiful. I see that you’re playing Tama now. I have two Tama kits, and I just love them.
BH: I am a big fan of Tama drums. I like to have consistency in having all hardware, pedals, and drums from the same company in one kit. When that became difficult to do with Premier, I made the jump over to Tama. I have experimented with many different sizes of Tama drums and Tama product lines. Currently, I’ve narrowed things down to two kits that I play. One of which is a Tama Starclassic Performer (Birch), and the other a Tama Starclassic Maple kit. Both are fitted with Remo drumheads, and I’ve returned to playing Zildjian cymbals. When I made the move over to Tama, I expected a good experience. I’m happy to say that over the last 22 years, they have not disappointed me whatsoever. Yes, there are going to be things that break and things that aren’t perfect, but that’s just me bearing witness to an ever-evolving company that is learning and growing. I became very brand loyal with Tama early on, and as they say, you don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater. Do metal musicians even say that? Erm, anyway …
RRX: They do now! Tell me about your first band/live performance.
BH: Outside of high school band performances, my first live performance in a band was with a couple of musician friends. We started a metal cover band and played our first show at a “party in the woods.” This was way back in the ‘90s. The equipment was all powered by generators. The show/party was called Al Stock. I believe it was a humorous reference to Woodstock. There were a bunch of local metal bands there. I was never really a metalhead beforehand. I just basically got involved in metal because my buddies wanted to play it. I do remember that we were well received. Metal became more of a thing for me when I realized double bass drums were one of my favorite sound experiences. I never had stage fright or anything because, by the time of my first show, I had practiced enough to where I knew this was just “something I do now.”
RRX: That’s great! Who are you playing with now?
BH: These days, my playing extends as far as woodshedding in the basement to being in an original metal band by the name 10-50 Nightmare. We managed to put out a couple of rough demos. The drums were recorded on a TD-25 Roland electric drum kit. I am not the biggest fan of electric drum sets, but it definitely got the job done. We have a bunch of shows under our belt, thanks to amazing local promotional support, and have booked some studio time in April. When we get asked what kind of metal we are, I suppose it would fall under the subgenre of horror metal. Like horror movies, but music. It’s an interesting contrast of living in such a demanding, politically correct, corporate, career-driven world and being involved in underground music. I’m happy to report that I seem to be handling it very well.
RRX: I have been listening to the 10-50 Nightmare recording, and it’s great stuff. The drumming is super tight and very big in the mix. Who are you influenced by at this point in your playing?
BH: I really don’t have any influences anymore. There was a time in my life when they were necessary. They helped me to learn discipline, self-control, focus, patience, confidence, and more to the point … how to play music! When I started out, my influences were Alex Van Halen and Neil Peart.
RRX: It shows! And you’re a lefty?!?
BH: I’m left-handed but also, in drumming terms, right-footed. It’s referred to as being mixed dominant. My rack toms all descend to the left, but I lead with my right foot. I use a remote high hat with an 8-foot cable that is played with my left foot. This is why sharing drums on stage has always been difficult for me. I play matched grip and use Vater 3A hickory fatback nylon tip drumsticks. They are super high quality and give me the perfect amount of weight I need to play heavy music.
RRX: Interesting! I love the fact that very few will attempt to “sit in” on your kit! What do you do for fun when you’re not drumming? I hear that you’re a MOPAR guy!
BH: When I’m not drumming, I’m tending to my career, working with a corporation that provides railroad safety to construction work crews. To answer your question, yes, I am a Mopar guy. I used to work in the automotive industry. While at work one day, I saw a Camaro and decided at that point I was going to get myself a nice car, too. I did a lot of research, comparing different makes and models, and ended up choosing a Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody in “Triple Nickel” silver. I went to the dealership, customized the specifications, and boom … Dodge built it for me.
I am also an avid motorcyclist. I would never encourage something potentially dangerous to anyone, but motorcycling satisfies my sense of adventure. I find the reward greatly outweighs the risk and avoid populated areas by mostly riding country roads.
RRX: That’s a full plate! If you could play in any band, who would it be? Tell me about your “dream band.”
BH: Dream band? I’m satisfied with the one I’m currently in. I don’t take for granted all the friendships I’ve acquired through playing music. Just to be able to play at all, even alone without other musicians, is a dream in and of itself for some. I’ve been fortunate enough to maintain a good state of health and am going to continue to play for as long as I possibly can. Dreams become reality when you have that moment that the music is happening and things feel good. Then you look up and see it’s your friends right there with you actually creating music. It’s not something I take lightly. Rehearsals can be quite tough considering all our differing schedules and priorities, so when things come together and they work, that’s when the dream becomes the reality. From a musician’s point of view, there’s not much better than that.
RRX: Ok, cool. Dream car? Don’t tell me – the one you’re currently in?
BH: Dream car? Honestly, it’s my 2021 Challenger. So much so that I had Dodge build me a 2023 Last Call edition in Sublime Green as well. It’s a wild Mopar heritage color from the early ’70s. The Challenger went out of production in 2024. It ticked all the boxes of what I needed in a cool car and, well, when it’s that good, ya got to have a spare! I would never fit in a Lamborghini anyway.
RRX: I hear that. Where can we see you playing next, Ben?
BH: Our upcoming shows are with Living Wreckage at Empire Underground on March 20 before we hit the studio, and then with Confinement on May 23 at High Voltage in Troy.
RRX: I’m looking forward to it! Thanks for being with us today
BH: Thank you for offering me an interview. It was not expected, yet is very appreciated.
RRX: The pleasure is all ours! See you on the 20th!!!
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