Attendees got punk(ed) with this Super Dark show at No Fun. Gratitude started the show, then the gloves were off, but the hats went on for Balaclava. Bloodx3 finished off the show.
Photography by Timothy Reidy.
United We Dance Comes to Albany!
Are you bummed out by the fact that our area doesn’t really have any dance clubs anymore? Are you looking for a top-notch rave experience right here in the Capital District? Look no further! United We Dance is getting ready to drop the beat right in Albany on March 6 at Empire Live.
United We Dance is an all-inclusive rave experience that travels the world. Gender, race, religion, hair style, none of that matters here. United We Dance is more than just a rave. It is a dance community. Inspired by the works of world-renowned talent such as Tiesto, Avicii, David Guetta, Zedd, and The Chainsmokers, just to name a few, United We Dance brings an over-the-top production and amazing visuals to the Capital District. Their resident DJs will bring the signature United We Dance sound and a dance floor that never stops.
If you are an experienced raver or new to the scene, United We Dance is an inclusive space for everyone. Get your tickets now and come out to Empire Live on Friday, March 6, for a dance experience you don’t want to miss and will never forget!
Get tickets at United We Dance or Empire Live.
Matthew Klane with Mouth Trumpet Announces Second Record
Sunshine Committee, and upcoming release show at Upstairs Arts Collective February 26th, 2026
Albany poet, collage artist, and songwriter, Matthew Klane, announces the release of his second album, Sunshine Committee, due to hit Bandcamp and streaming services on Thursday, March 12th, 2026. The Sunshine Committee release show will be on Sunday, March 15th, 6pm, in the new Antioffice, a co-working space for artists and creatives, at Upstairs Arts Collective (403 Fulton Street in Troy).
Featured on the podcast Art Town, as well as Unsigned518, Klane has published many books of poetry and performed around the country for the last 20 years. During that time, he’s also curated monthly local poetry readings at Albany Center Gallery (for the Yes! Poetry and Performance Series), at Russell Sage (for The REV), and now Salon Salvage (at Upstairs Arts Collective). On Sunshine Committee, his poetic, playful, sardonic lyrics and country-folk foundations are mixed with a little Dixieland, a little kid-pop, and a little rock n’ roll.
Like Too Little Too Late, Klane’s 2025 debut album, Sunshine Committee was produced by Jimi W., mastered by Troy audio engineer Sam Torres of Polymouth Mastering, and features a few appearances by singer Girl Blue. Here, he’s also accompanied by a full band of ultra-talented musicians/collaborators including local mainstays Shawn McCann (The Black Fuel, secretguy), Chris Gockley (Doctor Baker), and Louis Apicello (Sergeant Dunbar and the Hobo Band).
For further information or interview requests:
Contact: matthewklane@gmail.com, matthewklanewithmouthtrumpet@gmail.com
Website: www.matthewklane.com, www.matthewklanewithmouthtrumpet.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @matthewklone and @matthewklanewithmouthtrumpet
The Animals are Buying – The Weird Side of the Internet
The Animals are Buying – The Weird Side of the Internet – by Liam Sweeny.
When your dog learns how to sit and stay, it’s a moment of joy. When they show up couchside at two past the supper bell, tounge painting their lips and damned if that isn’t just a tiny bit of a tear making their eyes shiny people, it’s cute.
But what happens when they become adept at deception and learn ancient parlor games? Is it really just a velvet painting?
Alright, so enough foolishness. In Germany, a shiny black sea bird called a cormorant showed up at an emergency room. Injured with fishhooks in its beak, it tapped until medical staff contacted the local fire department. The corcorant was treated and released.
I have a tendency to blow stuff up in my head into the most ridiculous possibility that it could turn out.
The animals are learning.
A bird knowing to go to the Emergency Room when it’s sick is Charles Darwin’s “hold my beer” flex.
A seabird knows to go to the ER. A dog pays a leaf to the cookie shop and it gets a cookie. We have to face the fact that the animal world has seen enough of us to become us. They’re rising, climbing the corporate ladder. And clearly the digs are “cash only.” They can’t pull debit cards out, but maybe they can set up dog ATMs that sniffs butts , maybe. But I am a mere novice in engineering. And I don’t have a dog.
I had a dog, Bubba. Sixteen years. If that sonofabitch could’ve worked that whole time, I’ll be pissed. But really, Bubba would’ve been cool as a fellow cog in the wheel of the corporate machine. And if he had leaned over the TV table and inhaled my cake, he could go to the store and grab enough leaves along the way to get me some ice cream sandwiches because I just watched this mofo Hoover up my cake and I don’t even want cake anymore.
Jukebox – Music News Cuts
Jukebox.
Bad Omens
Bad Omens just began their 2026 North American Tour at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Los Angeles. They’ve played eight songs from 2022’s “The Death of Peace of Mind“
Tickets are on sale now.
Bad Omens Setlist:
Specter
Glass Houses
THE DRAIN
THE DEATH OF PEACE OF MIND
Dying to Love
CONCRETE JUNGLE
Nowhere to Go
Limits
ARTIFICIAL SUICIDE
V.A.N
Left For Good
ANYTHING > HUMAN
What Do You Want From Me?
What It Cost
Like a Villain
Just Pretend
Impose
Dethrone
Bad Omens’ 2026 North American Tour Dates:
02/22 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Delta Center *
02/24 – Denver, CO @ Ball Arena *
02/26 – Kansas City, MO @ T-Mobile Center *
02/28 – Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena *
03/02 – Minneapolis, MN @ Target Center *
03/04 – Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena *
03/06 – Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena *
03/08 – Laval, QC @ Place Bell *
03/10 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center *
03/11 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden *
03/13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Xfinity Mobile Arena *
03/14 – Baltimore, MD @ CFG Bank Arena *
03/16 – Raleigh, NC @ Lenovo Center *
03/17 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena *
03/19 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center *
03/20 – San Antonio, TX @ Frost Bank Center *
03/22 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Paycom Center *
03/24 – Glendale, AZ @ Desert Diamond Arena *
03/26 – Inglewood, CA @ Kia Forum *
03/27 – Oakland, CA @ Oakland Arena *
07/17 – Mansfield, OH @ Inkcarceration
* = w/ Beartooth and President
The Eagles
As the Eagles’ “The Long Goodbye, Act III” Tour begins to wind down, extra stadium dates have been added. They will be joined by Tedeschi Trucks. They will be performing at Atlanta’s Truist Park on May 5th, Nashville’s FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt University on May 9th, and Arlington’s Globe Life Field on May 16th. Tickets go live on Tuesday, March 3rd at 10:00 a.m.
Eagles 2026 Tour Dates:
02/27 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
02/28 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
03/20 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
03/21 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
03/27 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
03/28 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
04/10 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
04/11 – Las Vegas, NV @ Sphere
05/05 – Atlanta, GA @ Truist Park
05/09 – Nashville, TN @ FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt University
05/16 – Arlington, TX @ Globe Life Field
Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age have new dates for their “Catacombs” Tour. It will begin on April 24th in Joshua Tree, California, followed by performances in Rancho Mirage, Portland, Seattle, and Lincoln. The opener will be Libby Grace.
Queens of the Stone Age 2026 Tour Dates:
04/24 — Joshua Tree, CA @ Joshua Tree Retreat Center ^
04/25 — Rancho Mirage, CA @ Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage – The Show ^
04/27 — Portland, OR @ Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall ^
04/29 — Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre ^
05/01 — Lincoln, CA @ Thunder Valley Casino Resort ^
06/29 — Stockholm, SE @ Strawberry Arena #
07/02 — Paris, FR @ Stade de France #
07/04 — Paris, FR @ Stade de France #
07/06 — Milan, IT @ Ippodromo Snai La Maura #
07/08 — Berlin, DE @ Olympiastadion #
07/10 — Düsseldorf, DE @ Open Air Park Düsseldorf #
07/13 — London, UK @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium #
07/15 — London, UK @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium #
07/18 — Warsaw, PL @ PGE Narodowy #
07/19 — Warsaw, PL @ PGE Narodowy #
08/04 — Toronto, ON @ Rogers Stadium *
08/06 — Detroit, MI @ Ford Field *
08/08 — Chicago, IL @ Soldier Field Stadium *
08/10 — Cleveland, OH @ Huntington Bank Field *
08/13 — Philadelphia, PA @ Lincoln Financial Field *
08/15 — Nashville, TN @ Nissan Stadium *
08/17 — Washington, DC @ Nationals Park *
09/15 — Regina, SK @ Mosaic Stadium *
09/17 — Edmonton, AB @ Commonwealth Stadium *
09/20 — Vancouver, BC @ BC Place +
09/24 — Louisville, KY @ Bourbon & Beyond
09/26 — Las Vegas, NV @ Allegiant Stadium +
^ = w/ “Catacombs Tour” with Libby Grace
# = w/ System Of A Down and Acid Bath
* = w/ Foo Fighters and Mannequin Pussy
+ = w/ Foo Fighters and Gouge Away
My So Called Summer – Thanks for Asking!
My So Called Summer – 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?
MSCS: Technically, we played our first show a few days ago in Troy, NY at No Fun, but in reality, we’ve been playing music for about a decade. We had a really special band in Brookyn, called “Reliant Tom” (RIP). We released 3 albums and played countless shows in the city and beyond, but everything has its season, and after moving upstate it felt time to become something new. Out of this change “My So-Called Summer” was born! Our “first” show last week felt awesome. I was so nervous leading up, nervous to play guitar, nervous to play the new songs for the first time. I’ve always struggled with stage fright. Sometimes it’s so bad I think I’ll never play a show again, but then you play and it’s a blast & a half- rinse, repeat. It definitely wasn’t my best show, I made mistakes, but I’m learning to not get in my head about it, and I’m learning that ultimately the audience is on your side and they want it to be a good show too. For me, at baseline it feels embarrassing to be myself, but in this project My So-Called Summer, I’m trying to quiet those negative thoughts, because when they do go quiet, it’s so much fun. And ultimately, I’m trying to have fun. I think my best show will be when I have the most fun.
RRX: You sing or you rap, you play guitar, play drums, what have you, you have no doubt struggled to learn music. Something probably tripped you up. What was it for each of you? What did you have to overcome (bands, pick a member)?
MSCS: I always wanted to play guitar, but not sad girl guitar- rock guitar!!! But, I have a lot of mental blocks when it comes to that, and that has stopped me for years. Growing up I went to Catholic school and did classical ballet pretty seriously, and I still feel residual trauma from both of those. I was and still am, so shy and so insecure, and I think that’s my natural state, but my upbringing exacerbated that. On the way to ballet class I’d blast Nirvana on my ipod and just feel so powerful, but feeling powerful and rocking out didn’t fit with my personality so it was always something secret for me to escape to. Now I’m trying to quiet those inner thoughts, that I suck and have no business playing guitar, and I’m trying to let myself just do what I want, and also be okay with where I’m at. You won’t ever learn to play unless you play. Also, my bandmates are new to their instruments, Monte use to play bass but now he plays drums and Brendan use to play piano but now he plays bass. I think it’s cool to learn new things as an adult.
RRX: Our style comes from the extension of our influences. It’s like an evolution. We’re influenced, and it inspires us to influence. What can you say about your influences, and what you feel you’ve done with their influence as a musician or band? Have you extended their work?
MSCS: I have no idea what we sound like to other people, someone messaged me after our show and said we sound like Veruca Salt & Lisa Loeb had a baby and that made me so happy because I love both those artists. Musically I keep coming back to Julianna Hatfield and Ben Kweller. Their music feels so personal to me, like I’m listening to a real person, and I just wanna be honest like they are honest.
I think it’s so painful to feel like you aren’t being yourself, but being yourself is so hard. It’s not like “yourself” is this static, definable thing, and maybe it’s even worse now because everything is a brand. You’re always changing, always soaking up information, always being influenced. But at the same time I love Britney Spears and Y2k pop. One of my favorite bands is Fountains of Wayne, I love their clever funny lyrics and pop melodies. Idk I could list a ton of artists I love, it’s hard to know if those influences make it into your music, probably it all does somehow.
I think Monte’s musical influences are more unique. He has a deep love for Brazilian music and he has shared that with me over the years. Growing up, his parents had and still have a bateria and bossa nova band, and they all lived in Brazil for a while, soaking in the music. Monte also went to music school and is into some experimental stuff. He loves modular synths, he loves making patches in Maxmsp, he loves process pieces, but he also enjoys and doesn’t stick his nose up to pop. He loves house music and has an electronic project called Metno with lots of music out. I’m loving his production on our My So-Called Summer songs! Super curious what other people hear as an influence in our music. We will be releasing music soon!
RRX: What instrument would you add to the band if you could? Is there anything you are trying to do musically that would be helped with one or more additional players?
MSCS: In an alternate reality, we’d love to have a giant band. Monte who is our drummer also produces out these songs with lots of synth layers, more guitar parts, drum machines etc- and that production gives us our unique sound. We took a stab at just playing as a 3 piece, but I found it to be kinda boring, so we play with backing tracks. The tracks also give me some freedom to not play guitar on every song so I can dance with an umbrella, blow bubbles, do fun stuff at a live show.
I really wanted to be a band that didn’t use tracks, but ultimately our show is better with them and I don’t see us finding the perfect 2-3 bandmates to add. Also, Monte is my love of my life and Brendan is our best friend and neighbor, so we can’t really fuck with that ecosystem by adding someone new to the band. I mentioned our old band Reliant Tom earlier, part of why that project fell apart was because we added more and more people, and the project became difficult to manage. I seriously love and miss everyone we performed with.
I believe that collaboration is magical and elevates a project, but there is a price, sometimes literally if you are paying them. Artists deserve to be paid for their work, but that can make a passion project unsustainable. We tried to elevate Reliant Tom, we tried to make it a business, but over time that completely killed my joy for the art. All I want is to play music with my friends like we are kids again in a garage or something, and that’s our direction for My So-Called Summer. It doesn’t mean we aren’t serious about the music, we are super serious about the music, but we are protecting that childlike joy that gets squashed somewhere along the way. So yeah, most likely we will remain a 3 piece.
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?
MSCS: I admire so many artists in the community, but the first band that comes to mind is Long Island based prog rock band Dhärä. I’ve known Dhärä forever, their dummer (Chris) and I use to be in a band together and we’ve remained friends ever since. Over the years I’ve watched their project develop. They make incredible music, and they go above and beyond with their visuals. I even got to choreograph and perform in a full-length rock ballet for them- they are releasing parts of it now on YouTube, it’s called Elemental Four. They have a pure love of what they do, they are insanely talented, and they are all the nicest dudes you’ll ever meet in your life. I feel like a lot of artists I talk to, the conversation becomes centered around how to grow your audience, how to promote stuff, business shit, but when I talk to Dhärä we are talking about the art making itself, and conversations like that really fill me up. I just love those guys to pieces and I really believe in them.
RRX: Is there a favorite time of year? What time of year does the band have the most shows? Is there a recurring thing in the year that’s particularly memorable?
MSCS: Well, we are making summer our whole personality as a band, but it’s winter that makes summer so great. I’m writing to you in February, we just had *another* snowstorm yesterday, and I’m feeling so over it. As much as I love summer, I couldn’t live in a place that felt like summer all the time. I feel like in New England, you really earn your summer after surviving a brutal winter, and that’s what this band is all about. This too shall pass, it will be summer again, someday, for you. I struggle with my mental health and this project is an outlet to work through that. I wanna create summer for myself and anyone who interacts with our music, while also honoring the darkness. I love living in a place with seasons because yeah- spring, summer, and fall- let’s get out there and play shows, and then in winter we can slow down, write, record, reminisce. Every year I look outside and I see the incredible effort that nature creates and destroys. So much effort, for such a short time, and then we start all over again. I’m happy to be part of it.
MSCS: The attached 4 photos are from our first show at No Fun in Troy, NY 2/21/26 the photographer is Mark O’Donnell, his Instagram is @mjophotogr
We have no music released as My So-Called Summer yet, but here’s a link to our last release under our old moniker Reliant Tom:
https://relianttom.bandcamp.com/album/dancer-in-the-dark
The 2026 Raven Events Listen Up Awards – Live Performances
The second night of the annual Raven Events Listen Up Awards was the Award Ceremony, honoring your favorites across a multitude of categories, as voted by you. Music was provided by 2025 Listen Up Award winners, and photographer Timothy Reidy captured some of the performances:
- Luke McNamee
- Chris Sanders and the Better Days
- Brother T and the Boys
- Ginger Geezus
Photography by Timothy Reidy.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Nellson Moore – An Xperience Interview
By J Hunter.
Because my father spent most of my formative years climbing the corporate ladder, I got to live in Zurich, Switzerland, when I was seven. During that time, my parents were members of an “American club” that screened English-language films monthly for overseas Yanks. It was through that series that I first heard how brilliant “The Lion in Winter“ was. I didn’t get to see it until many years later, but I promptly agreed with my parents, mostly because it was nothing like I was expecting.
In 1968, a film set in 1163 would be lots of swords, a little sorcery, some heaving corseted cleavage, and maybe a duel or three. Instead, James Goldman dropped a sorcery-free political soap opera that had historical characters facing problems, decisions, and – most importantly – royal family brawls that would be completely unremarkable on “Game of Thrones,” but in 1968, it was a stunning revelation. “Lion” won three Oscars, including a Best Actress for Katherine Hepburn’s astounding performance as King Henry II Plantagenet’s long-imprisoned Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Playing Henry in Confetti Stage Inc’s “LiW” is Nellson Moore, who tried to join the Capital Region theater community when he moved here in 2020, but only found closed doors due to COVID. Fortunately for Moore, the Albany Gay Men’s Chorus was still up and running, so he joined up. Five years later, Nellson is on AGMC’s Board of Directors and is preparing to be part of their concert series “Stand Up & Sing Out”, Sunday, June 7, and Saturday, June 13. (For details and showtimes, go to www.albanygmc.org.)
Just on resume points alone, Moore is perfectly suited to play Henry. He graduated from NYC’s Fiorello LaGuardia High School of Music & Art, studied acting under Uta Hagen, and auditioned for Harvey Fierstein when he was developing “Torch Song Trilogy.” None of that tells you what an amazing person Nellson is. He combines the power of his size with the sharpness of his mind and gentleness of his soul, making him one of the most enjoyable cast members I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.
Nellson was good enough to step In The Spotlight to discuss “The Lion in Winter,” the journey that got him there, and the fact that this role would have never been available to him during his early years as an actor.
RRX: You certainly had a varied theatrical year in 2025: You went from an honor-bound Marine in “A Few Good Men” to a Scripture-spouting serial killer in “Jesus Hopped the A Train.” Did you approach these two roles differently, or do you have an established process when you take on a character?
Nellson Moore: I approach any character I am asked to play in an established manner. I read the play to find out who they are. I research aspects of their reality that I am not familiar with. I study folks with similar lives to the character. I try to keep my thoughts within the four walls of the script. I love history and can sometimes get distracted by elements that ultimately will not serve the character, within the four walls of the play. Then I begin to think about how I can use and/or adjust my voice, body, attitude, and sense memories to best embody the character. A small example: for Hoke in “Driving Miss Daisy,” I very rarely stood up straight. Men of African descent in those years had to defer to folks of European descent to live. However, for Henry II, I need to try to tower always! Once that work is done, I simply try my best to let the character live, breathe, and exist within the four walls of the play. I find it hard to learn my lines until I have worked with the other actors, discovering the lives of their characters. My acting teachers, Mary Crowley, Miranda McDermott, and Uta Hagen, all said that acting is reacting. Once I know how the other characters are coming at me, how my character reacts becomes clear. I have discovered over the years that the set, the props, the costume really can propel me forward in understanding my character’s world.
RRX: When was the first time you encountered “The Lion in Winter”? Was it on stage or on film?
NM: I first saw the film with my parents. It was a topic of much conversation. Neither of my parents finished grade school, but they soaked up knowledge from living, films, television, and the nightly news. They had a pact to never go to bed angry with one another. So, the marital bickering in the movie astonished them. I did a scene from the play in class in high school, and thought that I would love to play this role when I get older. Of course, then I thought (in 1974) that may never happen. I’m thrilled that it has. When I discovered that Robert Preston originated the role of Henry II on Broadway, I wished I could have seen him; he’s one of my favorites.
RRX: Tell us about Henry II Plantagenet. What has playing Henry taught you about him?
NM: Wow, I learned so much. Henry was a man of his time. He was fortunate to be born into nobility. He was lucky to be physically fit and relatively intelligent. He loved having a good time! He loved Eleanor because she was beautiful, strong, a woman that he could plan with. Kings having sex outside of marriage was commonplace, but he fell in love with another woman. That was unforgivable. And the qualities he loved in Eleanor are why he had to imprison her. I have learned that I am not so bad a dad. Henry was awful as a dad. He raised his sons to fight, negotiate, be kings. He did not raise them to love, care, or create. The play has reinforced the idea that affluence and power do not always make shiny, happy people.
RRX: What’s it been like having Jennifer Madison as your spouse, Eleanor of Aquitaine?
NM: Jen is marvelous. We auditioned together, and I felt a bond. She is a formidable actress. I sometimes forget my entrance because I’m watching her be so truthful. She has great comedic timing, and she moves seamlessly into the more dramatic moments. It’s easy to jump out on the ledge with her. She was the second actor off book. Aaron Lambert, who plays Geoffrey, was the first off book. I’m jealous of them both, as I am the last actor off-book.
RRX: We both worked with Thom Ingram in “A Few Good Men,” and you two had a fiery existence on stage in “A Train.” When I heard Thom got Richard, I was like, “He’ll be perfect!” Was I right?
NM: Yes. Thom and I have now done three shows in a row for me. First, I pulled a gun on him in “A Few Good Men,” then he spat in my face & took my cigarettes in “Jesus Hopped the A Train,” and now we have a sword fight. He is another actor who just puts his all into the role. He is nailing Richard’s bravado and his vulnerability. Again, I am sometimes lost watching him work. I just hope our next show together we’re on the same side.
RRX: John and Alais seem like pretty simple roles: One’s an idiot, and one’s a chess piece for Henry. But it’s not that simple, is it? How have Alex Grandin and Emily Crist built their respective characters among the Plantagenet infighting?
NM: This is a really good cast. Alex is superb at bringing out the complexity of being the last in line to succession, but his father’s favorite. Alex has excellent timing and nuance. There are moments when I, as Henry, want to slap him silly, and other times I just want to give him a hug. Alex gives us the impetuous boy and the reluctantly brave king to be. Yeah! Emily is a marvel. She is imbuing Alais with the sweetness and ease that made Henry take her as a mistress. Yet she brings the fire and opposition that show the woman Alais is becoming, and maybe not liking. The talented actors in the Capital Region are very impressive.
RRX: Can “Lion” be boiled down to “Your typical family drama – with swords”? Or does all the politics underpinning the play make it bigger than that?
NM: When I was researching the original Broadway production, I was surprised to learn that it closed rather soon, yet garnered many Tony nominations. I imagine the audiences were expecting Shakespeare and got Edward Albee. I have been telling my friends, who aren’t familiar with the play, that indeed James Goldman took a royal medieval family and gave them Tennessee Williams-like situations to maneuver. The audience gets to peek behind the curtain and see how the sausage is made – how strong, powerful men behave, plot and manipulate, and how they pass that on to their children and affect the lives of everyone around them. Because of that, the play is quite relevant to our current times.
RRX: What’s your favorite line of Henry’s?
NM: “Nothing in life has any business being perfect.”
My mother often said this to my brother and I, followed by “Do the best that you can at anything you do, and be proud of your work, no matter what that job is.”
Confetti Stage, Inc. presents James Goldman’s “The Lion in Winter,” February 27th through March 8th at the Albany Masonic Temple, 67 Corning Place in Albany. For tickets and showtimes, go to www.confettistage.org.)
The 2026 Raven Events Listen Up Awards
The second night of the fifth annual Raven Events Listen Up Awards was the Award Ceremony, honoring your favorites across a multitude of categories, as voted by you.
The 2026 favorites (we don’t have winners and losers here) were:
- Solo Artist (Male): Gus Unplugged
- Party Band: Hit -N- Run
- Country Artist: Whiskey Highway
- Cover Band: Brian Kane and the Beginning
- Americana Artist: Chris Sanders
- Pop Artist: Hailey Renee
- Rock/Hard Rock Band: Chris Busone
- Alt/Indie Artist: Elephant Back
- Folk/Bluegrass Artist: Northern Borne
- Jazz Artist: Marcus Benoit
- Punk/Garage Artist: Society High
- Metal/Hardcore Artist: Gozer
- Jam Band: Ky McClinton Band
- Blues Artist: Joe Roy Jackson
- R&B/Soul/Funk Artist: Ky McClinton Band
- Electronic/Experimental Artist: The Secret Fashions
- Performing/Recording DJ: DJ Fool
- Hip Hop Artist: Camtron 5000
- Progressive Rock Artist: The Phoenix and the Raven
- Best Hair and Makeup: Vincenzo Baldwin
- Most Likely to Fall Off Stage: Matty D
- Favorite Small Venue/Bar: The Kings Inn
- Reggae/World Music Artist: Hallelujah Hat Trick
- Solo Artist (Female): Shannon Roy
- Favorite Duo: Elephant Back
- Best Dressed: Joanna Peterson Palladino-Resnick
- Best Marketing/Social Media: The Rhythm Pilots
- Favorite Large Venue: Putnam Place
- Favorite Medium Venue: Hangar on the Hudson
and music was provided by 2025 Listen Up Award winners:
- Luke McNamee
- Chris Sanders and the Better Days
- Brother T and the Boys
- Ginger Geezus
Photography by Timothy Reidy.
More coverage of the Listen Up Awards here …
Whassup in the 518? – Weekend Shows
Whassup in the 518?
Friday, February 27th
The Magic of Motown, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy, 7:30pm
A journey through Motown’s best including: The Temptations, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson and more!
“The show’s pitch perfect harmonies, dynamic choreography & costuming perfectly capture the sights and sounds or Motown!”
Brett Young, The Palace Theatre, Albany, 8pm
2.0 Tour
From his self titled debut in 2017, Brett Young has captured the hearts of fans everywhere through his honest lyrics and West Coast meets Southern sound, aptly dubbed his “Caliville” style. With more than 8.5 billion global streams and seven consecutive No. 1 singles, Rolling Stone has called him “one of Country’s most consistent radio stars,” carving a lane as one of the genre’s most successful and relatable voices. With an impressive string of hits including “In Case You Didn’t Know” (DIAMOND), “Mercy” (4X PLATINUM), “Sleep Without You” (2X PLATINUM), “Like I Loved You” (2X PLATINUM), “Here Tonight” (2X PLATINUM), “Catch” (PLATINUM) and “Lady” (PLATINUM),
YOU GOT GOLD: A Celebration of John Prine, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady.
Branford Marsalis, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga
Lynch Mob, Empire Live, Albany, 6:30pm
Gimme Gimme Disco, Empire Underground, Albany, 8:30pm
The Ultimate Journey Experience By LEGEND, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm
E1Presents – The Ultimate Journey Experience BY LEGEND. Step into a world of enchantment and be mesmerized by the captivating performances of this renowned group of talented artists. With their incredible talent and electrifying stage presence, they will transport you to a realm where music knows no boundaries. LEGEND delivers an uncompromising energetic show based around five talented musicians which include the Lead singer – Mike Ledesma, Ed Bornt- Guitars, Backing Vocals. Reg Kafouris- Keyboards, Rhythm Guitars, Lead and Backing Vocals. George Biancosino- Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals. Richie Stigberg (ASCAP)- Drums, Backing Vocals.
Wolfgang Collective, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 7pm-10pm
Wolfgang Collective blends folk, blues, and soul-driven grooves into a high-energy, story-rich sound that’s guaranteed to move both hearts and feet.
Happy Hour with Sabrina Trueheart at The Eleven, Lark Hall, Albany, 6pm-8pm
Join us in welcoming Sabrina Trueheart at The Eleven on Friday, February 27th. 6pm/FREE
Skeleton Crewe, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm-11pm
Join us in welcoming Skeleton Crewe ft. Rob Barraco, Barry Sless, Stephen Inglis, Pete Sears & Jay Lane on 2/27 @ 8pm
Skeleton Crewe invites audiences into an intimate, high-vibe musical journey led by masterful artistry and fearless exploration. Each performance blends original compositions, including many written by Robert Hunter in collaboration with Rob Barraco and with reimagined Grateful Dead favorites and expansive improvisations. Their sound moves effortlessly across genres, weaving traditional Hawaiian influences with psychedelic Americana to create a transportive, one-of-a-kind experience. Skeleton Crewe doesn’t just play a show, they create a musical conversation that feels both timeless and brand new.
Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys w/s/g The A.M.’s, Hangar on the Hudson, Troy, 8pm-11pm
Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys – Since forming in 1988 in Southern California, Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys have become one of the world’s most beloved Americana/Roots acts, drawing from the deep musical waters that flow just beneath the surface of Rock & Roll’s fertile soil. A childhood passion for Country, Doo-Wop, and Rhythm & Blues 45s led Sandy (bornRobert Williams) to pursue a singing career as a teenager, beginning a life in music that continues decades later. And as his personal record collection continues to grow (75,000 and counting), so does the depth of the musical influences that stream through his songwriting and singing style. A critically acclaimed tribute to Tex-Mex hero Freddy Fender, released at the beginning of the 2020lockdown, points the way forward for Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys as they continue on a path of musical growth. After nearly 35 years on the road, and more than two dozen releases to their credit, they remain key figures on the ever-changing Americana circuit, both on record and in live appearances.
Looking For Frogs / Sunseeker / Uncle Boozer, No Fun, Troy, 11pm-12am
From “Bar People.”
2/27 5:00 PM Jacksland & Juniper- The Hidaway
2/27 6:00 PM Ben Gesek- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park
2/27 6:00 PM Caity Gallagher- Treehouse Brewery
2/27 6:00 PM Christine Spero- Panza’s
2/27 6:00 PM Dan VanVranken- Quarters
2/27 6:00 PM Jason Irwin- Carsons Woodside Tavern
2/27 6:00 PM Jay Yager- The Scarlet Knife
2/27 6:00 PM Keith Pray Trio- Cock & Bull
2/27 6:00 PM Kevin Green & Josh Sheridan- Hank Hudson Brewing
2/27 6:00 PM Mark Hodgkins- Spa City Tap & Barrel
2/27 6:00 PM Rob Aronstein- The Wishing Well
2/27 6:00 PM Ryan Clark- Thirsty Owl
2/27 6:00 PM Seth Warden- Inn at Saratoga
2/27 6:00 PM TBow & The Klips- Holy Moses
2/27 6:00 PM Trivia Night- S&S farm Brewery
2/27 6:00 PM Tyler Giroux- 677 Prime
2/27 6:30 PM Pat Decker- Diamond Club at Embassy Suites
2/27 6:30 PM Sheri Nolan & Peter von Allmen- Artisanal Brew Works
2/27 6:30pm Void Jewel – Peddlers Bar & Bistro
2/27 7:00 PM Dirt Cheap Trio- Bunker Clifton Park
2/27 7:00 PM Harmonic Duo- Ameican Legion Wynanyskill
2/27 7:00 PM Jeff Walton- Principessa Elena
2/27 7:00 PM Myrthtones- Rookies Sports Bar
2/27 7:00 PM Ryan Montbleau & Lyle Brewer- Caffe Lena
2/27 7:00 PM Shannon Lynch Band- Kraverie
2/27 7:00 PM Steve Cowles & Company- Bunker Saratoga
2/27 7:30 PM Branford Marsalis- Universal Preservation Hall
2/27 8:00 PM DJ Chris G- Misfit
2/27 8:00 PM Rusticators- Cooperstown Distilling Saratoga
2/27 8:00 PM Skeleton Crewe Quintet- Lark Hall
2/27 8:00 PM Will Pedicone- Arsenal Reserve
2/27 9:00 PM Arch Stanton Quartet- Nine Maple
2/27 9:30 PM Ill Funk Ensemble- Spa City Tap & Barrel
Saturday, February 28th
Dusty Slay: The Neighborhood Guy, The Egg, Albany, 7pm
You can take the boy out of the trailer park, but you can’t take the trailer park out of the boy… stand-up comedian Dusty Slay grew up on Lot 8 of a mobile home neighborhood in Opelika, Alabama, with a love for both classic country and rock and a career history peppered with jobs like waiting tables and selling pesticides. Now the Alabama native with the “We’re having a Good Time” attitude is hitting cities all across the country playing comedy clubs and selling out theaters filled with fans eager to imitate his signature Wave.
Rocky Mountain High Experience John Denver Tribute, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy, 3pm
Experience the music of John Denver through the artistry of Rick Schuler, the nation’s premier tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter.
With remarkable authenticity in voice, appearance, and spirit, Schuler brings Denver’s cherished catalog to life—from “Take Me Home, Country Roads” to “Sunshine on My Shoulders” and beyond.
This heartfelt performance celebrates the warmth and optimism that made Denver’s music iconic, capturing the pure Americana joy that continues to resonate across generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these classics anew, prepare for an uplifting evening of unforgettable melodies and memories.
Brit Floyd: The Moon, The Wall and Beyond 2026, Proctors, Schenectady
Songwriting Workshop with Girl Blue, Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga
Pigeons Playing Ping Pong – 2026 Tour, Empire Live, Albany
Super 400 30th Anniversary (1996-2026) w/s/g Drank The Gold, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7pm-9pm
Ginger Geezus, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm-11pm
Upstate NY Blues Rock Band with Modern Vibes. Classic 60s and 70s covers and Original Songs.
Happy Hour at The Eleven with Rob Fleming of Rhoseway, Lark Hall, Albany, 6pm-8pm
Join us in welcoming back Rob Fleming of Rhoseway at TheEleven 6pm/ FREE
For the Upstate NY-based singer & songwriter Rob Fleming, RHOSEWAY is the given name of a creative solo project, a truth-telling reflection, and an artistic reaction to the choice to play music at all from years as a writer and performer in other projects. It’s an act of free expression through melody, progression, sounds, and words that are based on feel. The music comes from a renewed perspective to create something from nothing, and play it live as either a stripped down dynamic solo performance, or as a tight-knit, organic full band hit suitable for a library to an outdoor festival, featuring rhythm section Matt Niedbalski (drum kit), and Steve Kirsty (bass), both seasoned active musicians on their own.
Quick Fix Band, Lost and Found, Albany, 9pm
Paper Lady / Bruiser & Bicycle / Mall Goth / Glimmer, No Fun, Troy, 7am-11pm
From “Bar People.”
2/28 10:00 AM Dave Moore- Saratoga Farmers Market at Wilton Mall
2/28 3:00 PM Bluestones- Helderberg Mountain Brewing
2/28 3:00 PM Ragged Company- Saratoga Apple
2/28 5:00 PM Eric Kufs- Dancing Grain Farm Brewery
2/28 5:00 PM Shine On- Artisanal Brew Works
2/28 5:30 PM Jason Irwin- Outpost 40
2/28 6:00 PM Ben Zoleski- Spa City Tap & Barrel
2/28 6:00 PM Brian Kane Duo- Carsons Woodside Tavern
2/28 6:00 PM Franklin Micare- 677 Prime
2/28 6:00 PM Jeffrey Halstead- Panza’s
2/28 6:00 PM Matt Cosgrove- The Scarlet Knife
2/28 6:00 PM Matty Finn- Tinney’s Tavern
2/28 6:00 PM Murder Hornets- Saratoga Apple
2/28 6:00 PM Peter Annello- S&S farm Brewery
2/28 6:00 PM Rob Aronstein- The Wishing Well
2/28 6:00 PM Rob Forman- Across The Street Pub
2/28 6:00 PM Sheri Nolan & Peter von Allmen- Inn at Saratoga
2/28 6:00 PM Steve Candlen- Thirsty Owl
2/28 6:00 PM Steven & Shannon Gray- Powers Pub
2/28 6:30 PM Brad Westcott- Other One Brewery
2/28 6:30pm 3 Philosophers – Peddlers Bar & Bistro
2/28 7:00 PM Alan Goldberg- Emack & Bolios
2/28 7:00 PM BR & B and The Growling Hazers- Unihog
2/28 7:00 PM CC Smokes- Bunker Saratoga
2/28 7:00 PM Chris Dollard- Principessa Elena
2/28 7:00 PM Completely Different Band- Kraverie
2/28 7:00 PM Dan Sherwin- Dukes Chophouse At Rivers Casino
2/28 7:00 PM Karaoke Night- Rail To River Brewing
2/28 7:00 PM Off The Record- Fallside Cohoes
2/28 7:00 PM Rhythm Pilots- Hometown Pub & Grub
2/28 8:00 PM DJ Vision- Misfit
2/28 8:00 PM Jimmy Kelly- Parting Glass
2/28 8:00 PM Mallett Brothers Trio- Caffe Lena
2/28 9:00 PM Joe Barna Quartet- Nine Maple
2/28 9:30 PM Double XP Band- Spa City Tap & Barrel
Sunday, March 1st
Git-R-Done! Larry the Cable Guy, the Palace Theatre, Albany, 8pm
Larry the Cable Guy is a multiplatinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, Billboard award winner and one of the top comedians in the country. He has his own line of merchandise and continues to tour across the United States. Larry has created The Git-R-Done Foundation, which was named after Larry’s signature catchphrase, and has donated more than 7 million dollars to various charities.
Larry The Cable Guy’s special Remain Seated is currently streaming on Netflix. He appeared on the hit FOX show “The Masked Singer,” and showed off his vocal talents as the character Baby. His comedy special with Jeff Foxworthy, We’ve Been Thinking is also available on Netflix. In addition, he launched his own comedy channel “Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup” on SIRIUSXM. The channel is a partnership with SIRIUSXM and Jeff Foxworthy. It highlights the best in great American comedy. You will hear hilarious material from this dynamic duo as well as comedy from some of their personal favorite comedians.
Saxsquatch, Empire Live, Albany, 8pm
Foodstock 14, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm
Foodstock is a musical benefit to raise money for The Food Pantries for the Capital District.
3/1 3:30 PM Dan Sherwin- Hank Hudson Brewing
3/1 4:00 PM Tribute To Lee Shaw- Alias Coffee
3/1 5:00 PM Bobbie Van Detta- Charlton Tavern
3/1 6:00 PM Sinatra And Friends- Panza’s
3/1 6:30 PM Jacob Jolliff & Grant Gordy- Cock & Bull
3/1 7:00 PM Sister Sadie- Caffe Lena