Rock music bass players are a lot like baseball umpires: the best ones are those that you never notice while they are going about their duties. The lack of shouting matches with a hot-tempered manager means that the correct on-field calls are being made by the umpire. Likewise, an anonymous bassist is a sign of a competent musician that dares not steal the spotlight from the lead guitarist. The result is a lack of recognized superstars for these denizens of the four-string axe.
Tony Levin is the exception to that rule. The Woodstock resident, best known for his stints with King Crimson and Peter Gabriel and for being one of the most in-demand studio musicians in the history of rock and roll, has carved out the unique distinction as being the world's most high-profile practicioner of this traditionally overlooked field of performing art.
After attending the Eastman School of Music in Rochester and playing in the Rochester Philharmonic, Levin met drummer Steve Gadd, who introduced him to playing a higher level of jazz and rock. He traded in his Ampeg baby bass for an old (at that time) Fender Precision bass, which was his only instrument for many years.
In 1970, Levin moved to New York City and joined a band with Don Preston of The Mothers of Invention. Soon after, he began working as a session musician and through the 1970's he played bass on many albums. In the late '70s wanting to do more live playing, Levin joined Peter Gabriel's band, who he had met through producer Bob Ezrin while recording Alice Cooper's Welcome to My Nightmare and Lou Reed's Berlin. Tony has played with Gabriel, both on the road and in the studio, ever since.
It was in these early years with Gabriel that Levin developed his playing of the Chapman Stick. The song Big Time, from Gabriel's So album, inspired the development of Funk Fingers, which are chopped off drumsticks used to hammer on the bass strings. Levin credits Gabriel with the idea.
On Gabriel's first album, Tony met Robert Fripp and in 1980, after having played on Fripp's solo album Exposure, he became a member of the '80s incarnation of progressive rock icons King Crimson.His resume of studio work is astonishing, having played on some of the most popular albums of the last twenty years as well as on some that are unknown to all but the most tuned-in. Credit include working with such diverse talents as Joan Armatrading, David Bowie, Al Dimeola, Peter Frampton, Gov't Mule, Pink Floyd, and Sarah Mclaughlan and many dozens of others.
His behind the scenes efforts in the recording of John Lennon' s Double Fantasy are recorded for the ages in an audio clip that Levin freely shares with visitors to his website. On it, the ex-Beatle is heard walking Levin and others through the rough cut of the album's signature track (Just Like) Starting Over.
The urge to perform on the live stage afflicts most great musicians, and the road has been beckoning Levin as of late. To satisfy that craving, he has been hopping planes to hook up with The California Guitar Trio for a string of western gigs as well as making some guest appearances with The Jim Weider Band in the northeast. Those select dates will include that band's upcoming New Year's Eve show at Albany's newly refurbished Washington Avenue Armory in a dual-headline billing with Pink Floyd tribute band, The Machine.
Weider, former guitarist of legendary The Band, was last seen here in the Capital Region at April's Tech Valley Times "Y2 Anniversary" in Troy. His all-star ensemble is currently supporting his critically acclaimed Project Percolator release, which can best be described as fusion rock that picks up where Jeff Beck left off during his Wired / Blow By Blow period of the mid-70's.
Tickets for the 8:00PM New Year's Eve (Dec 31, 2005) show are $10 in advance / $15 at the door and available online at www.TechValleyConcerts.com and at The Armory box office. The show is all-ages. Children under 12 enter free (no ticket required). There are no service fees for tickets purchased online before Dec 24.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Northern Lights Hosts Concert to Benefit the Homeless
Local nightspot, Northern Lights, will host a benefit concert to raise awareness and funds for the homeless on Thursday, December 22nd. Concert goers will be treated to perfformances by Milo, Kingscastle, Monty, Sunday Girl, Stuck In First and Teknique.
All proceeds will go directly to the Salvation Army to benefit the homeless. Northern Lights is localed on Rte 146 in Clifton Park. Doors open at 6:30pm.
All proceeds will go directly to the Salvation Army to benefit the homeless. Northern Lights is localed on Rte 146 in Clifton Park. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Rock 2 Rebuild Benefit Concert For Katrina Relief
Capital District residents were treated to an exciting evening of top notch music recently, and turned out to show their support for hurricane victims at the Concert For Katrina Relief . NYCAP Music was honored to be a part of the benefit concert, which was organized by Rock 2 Rebuild who also organized the very successful Tsunami Benefit Concert earlier this year which raised over thirteen thousand dollars for Habitat For Humanity.
Concert organizers, George Kansas and Jeffery Mirel put together an extensive lineup of talent with performances by The Refrigerators, ZOX, Conehead Buddha featuring Peter Prince, Super 400, The Kamikaze Hearts, and Sensemaya with the 2Dance4Ever dancers. New Orleans singer, songwriter Chip Wilson was a special guest, making the trip from his hometown in The Big Easy to perform at the concert.
The popular blues group Nite Train earned the distinction of opening the event by single-handedly raising close to four thousand dollars thru ticket sales. Valerie Webb and her band Venomentality captured second place in "The Palace Challenge" and performed in the mezzanine. Acoustic stage performers included Buck 250, The LWT Singers, and Slim Pickins.
The benefit concert was a great success made possible by the wonderful folks at Rock 2 Rebuild, The Palace Theatre who graciously host the event, Mayor Jennings and The City of Albany, many generous local sponsors, the musicians who donated their time and their talent, and the contless number of volunteers including security, stagehands, and sound engineers who all gave generously of their time to help make the evening run smoothly.
Concert organizers, George Kansas and Jeffery Mirel put together an extensive lineup of talent with performances by The Refrigerators, ZOX, Conehead Buddha featuring Peter Prince, Super 400, The Kamikaze Hearts, and Sensemaya with the 2Dance4Ever dancers. New Orleans singer, songwriter Chip Wilson was a special guest, making the trip from his hometown in The Big Easy to perform at the concert.
The popular blues group Nite Train earned the distinction of opening the event by single-handedly raising close to four thousand dollars thru ticket sales. Valerie Webb and her band Venomentality captured second place in "The Palace Challenge" and performed in the mezzanine. Acoustic stage performers included Buck 250, The LWT Singers, and Slim Pickins.
The benefit concert was a great success made possible by the wonderful folks at Rock 2 Rebuild, The Palace Theatre who graciously host the event, Mayor Jennings and The City of Albany, many generous local sponsors, the musicians who donated their time and their talent, and the contless number of volunteers including security, stagehands, and sound engineers who all gave generously of their time to help make the evening run smoothly.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Conkling Hall To Host Blues Guitarist Ernie Hawkins
Ernie Hawkins is carrying on the tradition of his mentor, Rev. Gary Davis. Ron Weinstock of Washington DC Blues Society has said of Ernie Hawkins' acoustical blues sound:
"In addition to his fluid, crisp guitar playing, Hawkins has a genial style in intruding his songs and a natural vocal delivery. His wonderful performance and extensive repertoire make for a fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable concert."
Additional information
"In addition to his fluid, crisp guitar playing, Hawkins has a genial style in intruding his songs and a natural vocal delivery. His wonderful performance and extensive repertoire make for a fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable concert."
Additional information
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Rock 2 Rebuild Concert For Katrina Relief
Our friends from Rock 2 ReBuild have been busy planning a benefit concert for vicitims of Hurricane Katrina. The concert is scheduled for Sat, October 15th at the Palace Theater in Albany, doors open at 7pm.
The current lineup includes performances by some of the Capital Region's biggest acts including The Refrigerators, Conehead Buddha, Super 400, The Kamikaze Hearts and Sensemaya and Friends.
The response from the local music community has been overwhelming. So many local musicians have contacted event organizers and offered to perform that Rock 2 Rebuild recently announced the "Palace Challenge" which will give local musicians an opportunity to compete for a chance perform at the benefit concert in one of two open slots in the lineup for the concert.
In addition to talented musicians, and generous sponsors a event of this magnitude can only be successful if people are willing to get involved and help. Please check the official Rock 2 Rebuild website for more information and to learn how you can volunteer to help and show your support.
The current lineup includes performances by some of the Capital Region's biggest acts including The Refrigerators, Conehead Buddha, Super 400, The Kamikaze Hearts and Sensemaya and Friends.
The response from the local music community has been overwhelming. So many local musicians have contacted event organizers and offered to perform that Rock 2 Rebuild recently announced the "Palace Challenge" which will give local musicians an opportunity to compete for a chance perform at the benefit concert in one of two open slots in the lineup for the concert.
In addition to talented musicians, and generous sponsors a event of this magnitude can only be successful if people are willing to get involved and help. Please check the official Rock 2 Rebuild website for more information and to learn how you can volunteer to help and show your support.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Third Annual Lake George Blues Fest Ends On A Somber Note
This past weekend we headed north. We'd made plans to catch the Maynard Brothers' set at the Third Annual Lake George Blues Blast. It was late when we got to the village, about 3pm on Sunday, and we joined the rest of the blues fans already enjoying the music in Shepards Park.
We settled into a comfortable spot on the lawn, scanned the crowd for friends and family, and gave little thought to the familiar sound of an ambulance as it passed thru town. At the time, we had no idea of the tragedy unfolding just a few miles away. It wasn't long before everyone noticed the sirens; a sound out of place and hard to ignore between the blues tunes.
Slowly, word began to spread thru the crowd - there had been a boating accident of some kind on Lake George. One of the tour boats on the lake was involved; many passengers had been injured or possibly drowned. I turned to our friend, Jeff Maynard, and whispered what I had heard to him just before he headed down the hill to the stage for their set.
Within minutes a festival organizer thanked everyone for coming, announced the Maynard Brothers Band, and then asked the audience to pray for those who were involved in the accident, quite an introduction. The guys opened with "Don't Mind Livin' Alone" - their music was tight, and sweet for the next hour. The Maynard Brothers played one of the best sets we have ever heard them play that afternoon.
We struggled over what to say about the Lake George Blues Blast on the website. It's difficult to talk about the music in light of the tragedy this past weekend. We're music fans, not trained journalists, so we decided we'd just try to do our best. In addition to The Maynard Brothers, we caught sets by Phil Petroff & The Natural Fact and the area's own blues legend, Ernie Williams. Everyone sounded wonderful, in spite of the tragedy that was playing out just a few minutes north of Shepard's Park.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and survivors of the Ethan Allen accident, their families, and the volunteers and rescue workers who risked their own lives to help.
We settled into a comfortable spot on the lawn, scanned the crowd for friends and family, and gave little thought to the familiar sound of an ambulance as it passed thru town. At the time, we had no idea of the tragedy unfolding just a few miles away. It wasn't long before everyone noticed the sirens; a sound out of place and hard to ignore between the blues tunes.
Slowly, word began to spread thru the crowd - there had been a boating accident of some kind on Lake George. One of the tour boats on the lake was involved; many passengers had been injured or possibly drowned. I turned to our friend, Jeff Maynard, and whispered what I had heard to him just before he headed down the hill to the stage for their set.
Within minutes a festival organizer thanked everyone for coming, announced the Maynard Brothers Band, and then asked the audience to pray for those who were involved in the accident, quite an introduction. The guys opened with "Don't Mind Livin' Alone" - their music was tight, and sweet for the next hour. The Maynard Brothers played one of the best sets we have ever heard them play that afternoon.
We struggled over what to say about the Lake George Blues Blast on the website. It's difficult to talk about the music in light of the tragedy this past weekend. We're music fans, not trained journalists, so we decided we'd just try to do our best. In addition to The Maynard Brothers, we caught sets by Phil Petroff & The Natural Fact and the area's own blues legend, Ernie Williams. Everyone sounded wonderful, in spite of the tragedy that was playing out just a few minutes north of Shepard's Park.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and survivors of the Ethan Allen accident, their families, and the volunteers and rescue workers who risked their own lives to help.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Local Musicians Organize Concerts to Benefit Victims of Hurricane Katrina
Local rockers Tripsonic and Hung Jury organized a day long fundraiser to benefit victims of Hurricane Katrina. Katrina 2005 took place at Big Bobby Brown's Rockin' BBQ on Sunday, Sept. 11th from noon to 10pm and included a line-up of some of area's favorite localmusicians.
The following local bands performed at Katrina 2005: Hung Jury, Tripsonic, Acoustic Trauma, Releae, Steve Moss, Watchdog,, The Tribe, ReaLation and Five 'Til Midnight. All concert proceeds were donated to the Salvation Army Katrina Relief Fund to assist hurricane survivors and their families.
Big Frank's Freedom Hurricane Relief Festival will take place on Sept. 11th at The River Street Beat Shop in Troy from noon to 6pm. The show started as a thank you tribute to all emergency personnel for their efforts past and present. In light of the recent events organizers will now be collecting donations for the American Red Cross Hurricane Relief efforts. Acts scheduled to perform: Corey Hough, Wendy Nolan, Johnny Mystery, Big Frank and the Bargain Bingers, Cliff Street, and October Circle.
“The victims just want basic life sustenance. They’re in shock. Everything they’ve worked for all of their lives is gone,” said Major Dalton Cunningham, divisional commander for The Salvation Army in the Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi Division. Monetary donations are needed to meet the victims’ most immediate needs. The Salvation Army continues to help bring aid and comfort to those affected by Hurricane Katrina, launching one of the largest emergency disaster services relief efforts in the organization’s 125-year history. Mobile kitchens and canteens serving in the Gulf Coast region are focused on providing the most precious commodities needed right now – food and water.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Helping Victims of Katrina - A Consumer's Guide To Giving Wisely
In the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, Americans are opening their hearts and wallets to help the affected communities in the Gulf Coast. The federal government is advising that the best way to provide immediate assistance is to donate money directly to established national relief organizations with the experience and means to deliver aid.
If you’re thinking about the best ways to provide help to those affected by the Hurricane, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, has these tips to help you give wisely:
Donate to recognized charities you have given to before. Watch out for charities that have sprung up overnight. They may be well-meaning, but lack the infrastructure to provide assistance. And be wary of charities with names that sound like familiar, or nationally known organizations. Give directly to the charity, not the solicitors for the charity.
Do not give out personal or financial information including your Social Security number or credit card and bank account numbers to anyone who solicits a contribution from you. Scam artists use this information to commit fraud against you. Check out any charities before you donate. Contact the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance. Don’t give or send cash. For security and tax record purposes, contribute by check or credit card. Write the official name of the charity on your check.
You can contribute safely online through national charities like The Red Cross. Ask for identification if you’re approached in person. Many states require paid fund-raisers to identify themselves as such and to name the charity for which they’re soliciting. Learn more
If you’re thinking about the best ways to provide help to those affected by the Hurricane, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, has these tips to help you give wisely:
Donate to recognized charities you have given to before. Watch out for charities that have sprung up overnight. They may be well-meaning, but lack the infrastructure to provide assistance. And be wary of charities with names that sound like familiar, or nationally known organizations. Give directly to the charity, not the solicitors for the charity.
Do not give out personal or financial information including your Social Security number or credit card and bank account numbers to anyone who solicits a contribution from you. Scam artists use this information to commit fraud against you. Check out any charities before you donate. Contact the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance. Don’t give or send cash. For security and tax record purposes, contribute by check or credit card. Write the official name of the charity on your check.
You can contribute safely online through national charities like The Red Cross. Ask for identification if you’re approached in person. Many states require paid fund-raisers to identify themselves as such and to name the charity for which they’re soliciting. Learn more
Monday, September 12, 2005
Positively Fourth Street - A Rock n' Roll Restaurant
(Troy, NY) August 12, 2005 - What is old, is new again. Positively Fourth Street (P4th) returned with full force on Friday, August 12th, with musical guest Melodrome. The Rock & Roll spirit of P4th’s previous incarnation has been resurrected - in a new location at 46 4th Street in Troy, New York. In keeping with the spirit of rebirth and progress, which defines rock & roll and life, P4th transformed the historic Ryan’s Paint Store, a fixture on 4th Street for 50+ years, into an upscale Music Venue and Restaurant, a’la a local Hard Rock Café, satisfying the Capital Region’s hunger for local music and great food.
P4th will again be one of the areas largest supporters of local music, but unlike the original Positively Fourth Street, P4th has expanded its focus to combine great food and spirits together, along with a strong and broad focus on music for music lovers of all ages.
Art Fredette, former owner of the original Positively Fourth Street, Artie’s River Street Stage and the Lansingburgh Station House and a member of the local favorites, the Lawn Sausages, has teamed up with Leesa Naimo, an attorney with the law firm of Lemery Greisler LLC whose practice focuses on fostering economic development, creating or preserving job opportunities, and stimulating growth, expansion and modernization of small businesses throughout Upstate New York, as well as John Cehowski, Assistant Business Officer at the NYS OMRDD’s Capital District DDSO and co-member of the local musical group Release and Patrick Vaccariello, a veteran of the Monument Square Café and the Ale House and one of the Capital Region’s most versatile and well-known characters to the industry.
A Grand Opening is schedule for Wednesday, September 7th with musical guest, The Charms. This show will kick-off The Charms’ first national tour. For information, call P4th at (518) 687-0064 or visit the P4th web site.
P4th will again be one of the areas largest supporters of local music, but unlike the original Positively Fourth Street, P4th has expanded its focus to combine great food and spirits together, along with a strong and broad focus on music for music lovers of all ages.
Art Fredette, former owner of the original Positively Fourth Street, Artie’s River Street Stage and the Lansingburgh Station House and a member of the local favorites, the Lawn Sausages, has teamed up with Leesa Naimo, an attorney with the law firm of Lemery Greisler LLC whose practice focuses on fostering economic development, creating or preserving job opportunities, and stimulating growth, expansion and modernization of small businesses throughout Upstate New York, as well as John Cehowski, Assistant Business Officer at the NYS OMRDD’s Capital District DDSO and co-member of the local musical group Release and Patrick Vaccariello, a veteran of the Monument Square Café and the Ale House and one of the Capital Region’s most versatile and well-known characters to the industry.
A Grand Opening is schedule for Wednesday, September 7th with musical guest, The Charms. This show will kick-off The Charms’ first national tour. For information, call P4th at (518) 687-0064 or visit the P4th web site.
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Brian Patneaude Quintet to Perform at Albany's Fourth Annual Jazz Fest
The City of Albany will host the fourth annual Jazz Fest at Albany's Riverfront Park on Saturday, September 10th from noon to 6:30pm. This year's lineup will feature some of the hottest in regional and national jazz music, as well as great food and beverages. Albany Riverfront Park provides the perfect setting for a great late summer day on the banks of the beautiful Hudson River. Featured Entertainers will include a performance at noon by The Brian Patneaude Quintet who o were named the best local Jazz group by Metroland magazine in 2003 and 2004.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Local Songwriter to Play the NYS Fair and Brings CD Release Party To Albany
Central NY native, Candice Jarrett, will be playing at The New York State Fair on September 2nd and 3rd, 2005. The up and coming songstress, who has graced venues such as legendary CBGB's in New York City and who performed on the THINC Stage at this year's Taste of Syracuse Festival, will be rocking out in Syracuse once again at the Coca-Cola Coliseum as her debut performance at The New York State Fair.
“I am beyond excited to perform at The State Fair this year,” Candice says. “I am going to get to share the stage with one of the greatest bands Syracuse has to offer: Timeline! I have been looking forward to this all summer and have chosen to release my newest CD (for the first time) during my performance at The Fair.
Candice is quickly making her name known, performing with local Syracuse musicians such as Ashley Cox as she tours throughout the many corners of The Empire State. After her performance at The New York State Fair, Candice will be very busy performing at her CD Release Parties in Albany, Utica, and Syracuse. The Albany CD Release Party will be held on Friday,: September 8th at Savannah’s from 9PM – 12AM and will feature local Albany musicians Mike Grosshandler, Valerie Webb, Jonathan Bright, and Frank Novko. Please visit Candice’s website for more information.
“I am beyond excited to perform at The State Fair this year,” Candice says. “I am going to get to share the stage with one of the greatest bands Syracuse has to offer: Timeline! I have been looking forward to this all summer and have chosen to release my newest CD (for the first time) during my performance at The Fair.
Candice is quickly making her name known, performing with local Syracuse musicians such as Ashley Cox as she tours throughout the many corners of The Empire State. After her performance at The New York State Fair, Candice will be very busy performing at her CD Release Parties in Albany, Utica, and Syracuse. The Albany CD Release Party will be held on Friday,: September 8th at Savannah’s from 9PM – 12AM and will feature local Albany musicians Mike Grosshandler, Valerie Webb, Jonathan Bright, and Frank Novko. Please visit Candice’s website for more information.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Reggie's Red Hot Feetwarmers Release Newest CD, Saratoga Souvenir
Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers proudly announce the release of their newest CD, Saratoga Souvenir. Saratoga Souvenir features the spec-tacular playing of New York City-based clarinet virtuoso Dan Levinson.
Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers have been together since the early 1980’s when they began as an offshoot project of Doc Scanlon’s Rhythm Boys. The traditional New Orleans/Hot Jazz band is beginning their 20th year at the famed Saratoga, New York Racetrack as “house band” five days a week. During an active career that began in the 1980’s, Dan Levinson has worked with such jazz luminaries as Dick Hyman, Mel Torme and Wynton Marsalis. A member of Vince Giordano’s Nighthawks since 1993, Dan has been featured with them on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion radio program and at Carnegie Hall. He has also recorded and performed numerous projects under his own leadership.
Saratoga Souvenir captures a very special Saratoga tradition. The Feetwarmers are a colorful, moveable musical feast that strolls to all corners of the country’s oldest racetrack to entertain crowds young and old. Harkening back to the sounds of the 20’s and 30’s, the Feetwarmers pump out an infectious, all-acoustic, unplugged brand of jumping jazz, with the only amplification being the megaphone that “Reggie” uses for singing. The band includes banjo, acoustic slap bass, trumpet, trombone and clarinet. Their repertoire is a romp through some of the best traditional and hot jazz tunes of the 1920’s and 30’s. Whether at the Track, at concerts, clubs or private parties, the Feetwarmers always set toes tappin’ and faces smilin’. The new CD is available from the band at the Racetrack, at Internet music source CDBaby, and from the band’s own website, where you can also find a list of local upcoming shows.
Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers have been together since the early 1980’s when they began as an offshoot project of Doc Scanlon’s Rhythm Boys. The traditional New Orleans/Hot Jazz band is beginning their 20th year at the famed Saratoga, New York Racetrack as “house band” five days a week. During an active career that began in the 1980’s, Dan Levinson has worked with such jazz luminaries as Dick Hyman, Mel Torme and Wynton Marsalis. A member of Vince Giordano’s Nighthawks since 1993, Dan has been featured with them on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion radio program and at Carnegie Hall. He has also recorded and performed numerous projects under his own leadership.
Saratoga Souvenir captures a very special Saratoga tradition. The Feetwarmers are a colorful, moveable musical feast that strolls to all corners of the country’s oldest racetrack to entertain crowds young and old. Harkening back to the sounds of the 20’s and 30’s, the Feetwarmers pump out an infectious, all-acoustic, unplugged brand of jumping jazz, with the only amplification being the megaphone that “Reggie” uses for singing. The band includes banjo, acoustic slap bass, trumpet, trombone and clarinet. Their repertoire is a romp through some of the best traditional and hot jazz tunes of the 1920’s and 30’s. Whether at the Track, at concerts, clubs or private parties, the Feetwarmers always set toes tappin’ and faces smilin’. The new CD is available from the band at the Racetrack, at Internet music source CDBaby, and from the band’s own website, where you can also find a list of local upcoming shows.
Events at the Empire State Plaza Offer A Little Something For All Musical Tastes
The Empire State Plaza's annual I Love NY Food Festival boasted quite the musical lineup on the menu this year. In addition to the traditional culinary delights. the festival included a performance by the one of the areas' top Rock-a-billy groups, Rocky Velvet, from 11am until 2pm. An evening performance included sets by Barrence Whitfield and the Savages out of Boston MA, followed by John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band with headliners the Gin Blossoms. The Food Festival was held at the Empire State Plaza on Wednesday, August 10th and is free to the public. For more information call (877) 659-4377.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Plug In With Five 'Til Midnight
Five 'Til Midnight is:
Mark Haskell - lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Christopher Wilber - lead guitar, backing vocals
Jennifer Garlin - piano, backing vocals
Ashley Bowman - bass, backing vocals
Dennis Fatato - drums
Hometown: Albany, New York
Genre: Alternative Rock
Booking Info: ftmbooking@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.geocities.com/fivetillmidnight/
Five 'Til Midnight is an alternative rock band with classic rock and blues influences. Formed in the fall of 2003, they have been dedicated to the sound and quality of live performance and the arrangement of music.Combining their talent and influences, they have created a sound all their own. Since becoming a complete band, Five 'Til Midnight has played in numerous venues around the Capital District of NY, and they are looking to expand to other areas. They have also been featured on two of the local radio stations, (Channel 103.1, Albany's new rock alternative and WFNP 88.7 FM, the Edge) and can be heard at 9down Radio (http://9down.OutrAegis.org).
On November 20, 2004 they finished their first EP, with eight full length tracks. Since then the band has grown artistically (including the addition of two new members), and they are looking forward to returning to the studio this summer.
We caught up with the band recently and asked them a few questions......
How long has the band been making music together?
It's been a year and a half for Mark and Chris, about six months for Ashley and Dennis, and Jen has been with us for about a year.
Where do you call home?
Albany, the Capital District...we're all pretty partial to Earth.
If you guys could play a show with anyone you wanted to, who would that be?
Ashley - Queen
Mark - Pearl Jam
Jen - Aerosmith
Dennis - Green Day
Chris - The Stones
What is your favorite thing to do when you're not making music?
Mark - When I'm not playing music? Hmmm...I like to read, play video games and watch movies.
Dennis - I love playing ball with my son.
Jen - Rock climbing
Ashley - Anything music related. There is no life outside of music!
What was the first concert you ever attended?
Chris - The Moody Blues
Ashley - 98 degrees
Dennis - Haha...the New Kids on the Block
Jen - The Who (Quadrophenia)
Mark - Live, PJ Harvey & Veruca Salt
What should a crowd expect at one of your shows?
Anyone coming to one of our shows should expect a high energy performance with rocking originals, and we tend to randomly throw in a classic rock cover. Every show is different, but it's always a great time.
What's the weirdest reaction you ever got from a fan?
Chris - Once at Savannahs, there were these two girls dancing all over each other and it made Mark and I forget the words to our song.
How do you all psyche yourselves up before you go on stage?
Mark - I still get nervous before a show, so I like to chill and relax before we go on, maybe have a cocktail to ice the nerves a little.
Chris - I like to have a few beers, and it's important that right before the show we all get together and pump each other up and wish each other luck.
Would you be willing to share your comments on the local music scene and what it's really like to be a part of it?
Mark - When we first started playing shows as a band I was amazed by how many great bands there are in the Capital District. Getting to play with these bands is always something I look forward to.
Jen - I wish people were more enthusiastic about coming out to
shows.
Ashley - I don't like the lack of Queen tribute bands!
Dennis - Music is my life, so I'm proud to be a part of it.
Chris - I love being a part of the scene. I hope a bunch of these bands go on to be something more, and it would be great to be a part of that.
Five 'Til Midnight will be at Valentines on Saturday, August 6th. For a full schedule of upcoming shows and more info about the band be sure to check their website or their Myspace.
Mark Haskell - lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Christopher Wilber - lead guitar, backing vocals
Jennifer Garlin - piano, backing vocals
Ashley Bowman - bass, backing vocals
Dennis Fatato - drums
Hometown: Albany, New York
Genre: Alternative Rock
Booking Info: ftmbooking@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.geocities.com/fivetillmidnight/
Five 'Til Midnight is an alternative rock band with classic rock and blues influences. Formed in the fall of 2003, they have been dedicated to the sound and quality of live performance and the arrangement of music.Combining their talent and influences, they have created a sound all their own. Since becoming a complete band, Five 'Til Midnight has played in numerous venues around the Capital District of NY, and they are looking to expand to other areas. They have also been featured on two of the local radio stations, (Channel 103.1, Albany's new rock alternative and WFNP 88.7 FM, the Edge) and can be heard at 9down Radio (http://9down.OutrAegis.org).
On November 20, 2004 they finished their first EP, with eight full length tracks. Since then the band has grown artistically (including the addition of two new members), and they are looking forward to returning to the studio this summer.
We caught up with the band recently and asked them a few questions......
How long has the band been making music together?
It's been a year and a half for Mark and Chris, about six months for Ashley and Dennis, and Jen has been with us for about a year.
Where do you call home?
Albany, the Capital District...we're all pretty partial to Earth.
If you guys could play a show with anyone you wanted to, who would that be?
Ashley - Queen
Mark - Pearl Jam
Jen - Aerosmith
Dennis - Green Day
Chris - The Stones
What is your favorite thing to do when you're not making music?
Mark - When I'm not playing music? Hmmm...I like to read, play video games and watch movies.
Dennis - I love playing ball with my son.
Jen - Rock climbing
Ashley - Anything music related. There is no life outside of music!
What was the first concert you ever attended?
Chris - The Moody Blues
Ashley - 98 degrees
Dennis - Haha...the New Kids on the Block
Jen - The Who (Quadrophenia)
Mark - Live, PJ Harvey & Veruca Salt
What should a crowd expect at one of your shows?
Anyone coming to one of our shows should expect a high energy performance with rocking originals, and we tend to randomly throw in a classic rock cover. Every show is different, but it's always a great time.
What's the weirdest reaction you ever got from a fan?
Chris - Once at Savannahs, there were these two girls dancing all over each other and it made Mark and I forget the words to our song.
How do you all psyche yourselves up before you go on stage?
Mark - I still get nervous before a show, so I like to chill and relax before we go on, maybe have a cocktail to ice the nerves a little.
Chris - I like to have a few beers, and it's important that right before the show we all get together and pump each other up and wish each other luck.
Would you be willing to share your comments on the local music scene and what it's really like to be a part of it?
Mark - When we first started playing shows as a band I was amazed by how many great bands there are in the Capital District. Getting to play with these bands is always something I look forward to.
Jen - I wish people were more enthusiastic about coming out to
shows.
Ashley - I don't like the lack of Queen tribute bands!
Dennis - Music is my life, so I'm proud to be a part of it.
Chris - I love being a part of the scene. I hope a bunch of these bands go on to be something more, and it would be great to be a part of that.
Five 'Til Midnight will be at Valentines on Saturday, August 6th. For a full schedule of upcoming shows and more info about the band be sure to check their website or their Myspace.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Plug In With Monkey Gone Mad
Monkey Gone Mad is:
Ian Rafalak - Vocals, trumpet
Brendan McLaughlin - Guitar, vocals
Kate Penn - Trombone, vocals
Jason Rafalak - Bass, vocals
Jeff Pierce - Keys, vocals
Jesse Winchester - Drums
Ayra Chowdhury - Guitar, vocals
Adam "Number Two" Siegel - Alto /tenor sax
Dean Keller - Tenor/bari sax, bass clarinet
Hometown: Scotia, NY
Genre: ska/funk/punk/hiphop
Booking Info: dan@rkstar.com
Website: www.monkeygonemad.com
Monkey Gone Mad just finished work on their new CD "Listen" which will be released this coming week. Monkey Gone Mad is upstate New York's hidden secret of ska/funk/punk/hiphop about to be revealed. Comprised of members of other projects such as The Renowned Army, Westbound Train, One Sweet World, Pocket Protector and See Girl Run, MGM has been developing their unique style for 7 years, influenced by the tastes of all 9 members. From Fishbone, to NOFX, to the Roots, a little bit of everything gets thrown into the DNA of this musical organism.
With their appearance on the much anticipated ska compilation "Still Standing" (also featuring such artists as the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Slackers and Toasters), MGM got a dose of national (and to an extent international) exposure, which put them on the map in the ska scene. However, it would be a gross oversimplification to simply label their music "ska."
The sound that has been incubating for these years and has only been available in limited amounts on compilations and the band's 2001 EP "Skunk With a Porpoise" is about to be born through their first full length album "Listen..." The spectrum of ideas present within the band is finally documented, ranging from the old-school Jamaican "Reggae People," to the hard-hitting hip hop of "Right Now," to the quirky ska-pop of "Sometimes". And it's tight: clean production, yet managing to preserve the organic sound of MGM.
We caught up with the band as they worked on wrapping up the last details for their release party at Northern Lights and asked them.......
How long has the band been making music together?
Monkey Gone Mad formed as a three piece in 1997, and has constantly been adding and changing members ever since. The nine members that are currently in the band have been a band for about a year.
Where do you call home?
Scotia is homebase to the band, though there are members in Pittsburgh, Rochester, Ithaca, Schenectady, and Albany.
Where did the band's name come from?
Jay Rafalak came up with the name "Monkey Gone Mad & The Hootenany Orchestra" for a High School talent show, and it was quickly shortened.
Describe what a crowd can expect at one of your shows?
The crowd at MGM shows are rather diverse... there's the core of the ska kids, but the music is so varied and so accessible, everyone from little kids to grandparents often come to the shows.
What is your pre-show ritual?
No pre-show ritual other than to practice and scurry together a soundcheck (which isn't easy with nine people).
What's it like to play shows with such a large band of nine musicians?
To quote Perfect Thyroid's Sam Lapidus - 'Monkey Gone Mad is like a 3-ring circus. There's something going on in every part of the stage.'
We've all been waiting anxiously for the new CD - what was it like making "Listen" and what can fans look forward to?
It was definitely an experience putting together a full album... we had a lot of fun working with a lot of guest musicians who are also friends of ours, and Ted Marotta did a great job engineering and helping priduce it all. It's been a long year, and it was exciting hearing everything finally come together. Fans can probably most look forward to the band breaking from it's oft-used stereotype as a "ska band". While there are a lot of musical ska patterns etc on the disc, there's way more than just ska.
Would you be willing to share your comments on the local music scene and what it's really like to be a part of it?
The capital district music scene is full of great musicians and songwriters, and we're honored to be a part of it.Over the years, Monkey Gone Mad's live show has evolved, but the constants of high energy and spontaneity have always been part of the picture. With 9 members, there's never a dull moment. Smooth transitions keep the flow, while surprise covers and feel changes keep you guessing. We love what we do and we're pretty sure you'll dig it. See you at the show!
Our friend Dan Goodspeed at rkstar.com tells us that you can buy the new CD from the band themselves at two local shows coming up this week - one is at Valentine's on Tuesday with The Toasters, Public Access, and Honeycreeper. The second is their big CD release party at Northern Lights on Thursday, June 23rd with The Late Night Show. The first 20 people through the door get a free copy of the new CD. As if all that wasn't enough, you can also catch the band doing some radio interviews Sunday NIght- 8pm on Jason Keller's Big Break 103.1FM, and 11pm on EQXposure 102.7FM.
For more details and a full list of upcoming shows be sure to check out the band's new website at www.monkeygonemad.com
Ian Rafalak - Vocals, trumpet
Brendan McLaughlin - Guitar, vocals
Kate Penn - Trombone, vocals
Jason Rafalak - Bass, vocals
Jeff Pierce - Keys, vocals
Jesse Winchester - Drums
Ayra Chowdhury - Guitar, vocals
Adam "Number Two" Siegel - Alto /tenor sax
Dean Keller - Tenor/bari sax, bass clarinet
Hometown: Scotia, NY
Genre: ska/funk/punk/hiphop
Booking Info: dan@rkstar.com
Website: www.monkeygonemad.com
Monkey Gone Mad just finished work on their new CD "Listen" which will be released this coming week. Monkey Gone Mad is upstate New York's hidden secret of ska/funk/punk/hiphop about to be revealed. Comprised of members of other projects such as The Renowned Army, Westbound Train, One Sweet World, Pocket Protector and See Girl Run, MGM has been developing their unique style for 7 years, influenced by the tastes of all 9 members. From Fishbone, to NOFX, to the Roots, a little bit of everything gets thrown into the DNA of this musical organism.
With their appearance on the much anticipated ska compilation "Still Standing" (also featuring such artists as the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Slackers and Toasters), MGM got a dose of national (and to an extent international) exposure, which put them on the map in the ska scene. However, it would be a gross oversimplification to simply label their music "ska."
The sound that has been incubating for these years and has only been available in limited amounts on compilations and the band's 2001 EP "Skunk With a Porpoise" is about to be born through their first full length album "Listen..." The spectrum of ideas present within the band is finally documented, ranging from the old-school Jamaican "Reggae People," to the hard-hitting hip hop of "Right Now," to the quirky ska-pop of "Sometimes". And it's tight: clean production, yet managing to preserve the organic sound of MGM.
We caught up with the band as they worked on wrapping up the last details for their release party at Northern Lights and asked them.......
How long has the band been making music together?
Monkey Gone Mad formed as a three piece in 1997, and has constantly been adding and changing members ever since. The nine members that are currently in the band have been a band for about a year.
Where do you call home?
Scotia is homebase to the band, though there are members in Pittsburgh, Rochester, Ithaca, Schenectady, and Albany.
Where did the band's name come from?
Jay Rafalak came up with the name "Monkey Gone Mad & The Hootenany Orchestra" for a High School talent show, and it was quickly shortened.
Describe what a crowd can expect at one of your shows?
The crowd at MGM shows are rather diverse... there's the core of the ska kids, but the music is so varied and so accessible, everyone from little kids to grandparents often come to the shows.
What is your pre-show ritual?
No pre-show ritual other than to practice and scurry together a soundcheck (which isn't easy with nine people).
What's it like to play shows with such a large band of nine musicians?
To quote Perfect Thyroid's Sam Lapidus - 'Monkey Gone Mad is like a 3-ring circus. There's something going on in every part of the stage.'
We've all been waiting anxiously for the new CD - what was it like making "Listen" and what can fans look forward to?
It was definitely an experience putting together a full album... we had a lot of fun working with a lot of guest musicians who are also friends of ours, and Ted Marotta did a great job engineering and helping priduce it all. It's been a long year, and it was exciting hearing everything finally come together. Fans can probably most look forward to the band breaking from it's oft-used stereotype as a "ska band". While there are a lot of musical ska patterns etc on the disc, there's way more than just ska.
Would you be willing to share your comments on the local music scene and what it's really like to be a part of it?
The capital district music scene is full of great musicians and songwriters, and we're honored to be a part of it.Over the years, Monkey Gone Mad's live show has evolved, but the constants of high energy and spontaneity have always been part of the picture. With 9 members, there's never a dull moment. Smooth transitions keep the flow, while surprise covers and feel changes keep you guessing. We love what we do and we're pretty sure you'll dig it. See you at the show!
Our friend Dan Goodspeed at rkstar.com tells us that you can buy the new CD from the band themselves at two local shows coming up this week - one is at Valentine's on Tuesday with The Toasters, Public Access, and Honeycreeper. The second is their big CD release party at Northern Lights on Thursday, June 23rd with The Late Night Show. The first 20 people through the door get a free copy of the new CD. As if all that wasn't enough, you can also catch the band doing some radio interviews Sunday NIght- 8pm on Jason Keller's Big Break 103.1FM, and 11pm on EQXposure 102.7FM.
For more details and a full list of upcoming shows be sure to check out the band's new website at www.monkeygonemad.com
Music For Miracles Concert and CD Release Party To Benefit The Childrens Hospital at AMC
This weekend the capitol city hosted the Second Annual Music For Miracles Concert in Albany's Washington Park, on Saturday June 18th, from noon-8pm. The concert offered a great music-filled day in the park featuring many local, regional, and national performers, including North Allen, Tyler Hilton, Arc, Importante, Aaron Carter, Sirsy, The Click Five, Goin' Nowhere, The Schmooze and The Refrigerators.
In addition to the live performances, the event included raffles for numerous prizes, and the premiere of a new 15 track CD, Fridge-Benefits-II featuring original cuts from local artists as well as songs submitted by the three winners of this year's original song-writing contest and recorded by The Refrigerators.
First formed in 1992, The Refrigerators have become one of the most sought after bands to ever hit the Northeast music circuit. They have been voted "Best Band" several times by the readers of both the Times Union Preview and the Metroland Magazine. The band infuse funk, rock, and R&B with a pumping rhythm section, powerhouse horn section, ferocious guitar work, and intense vocals. The festival benefits the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, to help fund vital medical care and research.
In addition to the live performances, the event included raffles for numerous prizes, and the premiere of a new 15 track CD, Fridge-Benefits-II featuring original cuts from local artists as well as songs submitted by the three winners of this year's original song-writing contest and recorded by The Refrigerators.
First formed in 1992, The Refrigerators have become one of the most sought after bands to ever hit the Northeast music circuit. They have been voted "Best Band" several times by the readers of both the Times Union Preview and the Metroland Magazine. The band infuse funk, rock, and R&B with a pumping rhythm section, powerhouse horn section, ferocious guitar work, and intense vocals. The festival benefits the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, to help fund vital medical care and research.
25th Anniversary Old Songs Festival - Folk, Traditional, Celtic and World Music and Dance
The twenty-fifth annual three day Old Songs Festival will be held on June 24-26, 2005 at the Altamont Fairgrounds. Since 1981, Old Songs has held a family-friendly acoustic festival of folk, traditional, Celtic and world music and dance.
Well known for the relaxed atmosphere, interactive sessions, workshops and jams, the festival provides a lot of hands-on experience with acoustic instruments such as fiddle, banjo, guitar, dulcimer, penny-whistle, bagpipes and participatory dance. There is an evening concert on Friday and Saturday, and an afternoon concert on Sunday in addition to the numerous workshops and classes given by the performers. Food vendors, instrument makers, and a juried craft show complete the festival weekend.
The twenty-fifth annual three day Old Songs Festival will be held on June 24-26, 2005 at the Altamont Fairgrounds.Over their 25 year history, Old Songs has been proud to provide a place for young people to experience and participate in many music and dance events. This year they celebrate the youth and young adults who have been faithful to acoustic music most of their lives. Don't miss the "Tree of Life Concert" on Sunday afternoon. A full schedule of events is available on the Festival's website.
Well known for the relaxed atmosphere, interactive sessions, workshops and jams, the festival provides a lot of hands-on experience with acoustic instruments such as fiddle, banjo, guitar, dulcimer, penny-whistle, bagpipes and participatory dance. There is an evening concert on Friday and Saturday, and an afternoon concert on Sunday in addition to the numerous workshops and classes given by the performers. Food vendors, instrument makers, and a juried craft show complete the festival weekend.
The twenty-fifth annual three day Old Songs Festival will be held on June 24-26, 2005 at the Altamont Fairgrounds.Over their 25 year history, Old Songs has been proud to provide a place for young people to experience and participate in many music and dance events. This year they celebrate the youth and young adults who have been faithful to acoustic music most of their lives. Don't miss the "Tree of Life Concert" on Sunday afternoon. A full schedule of events is available on the Festival's website.
Friday, June 17, 2005
Plug In With School Bus Yellow
School Bus Yellow is:
Gregory Finley - Drums and Vocals
Jeremy Dunham - Guitar and Vocals
Kevin Greer - Slaps his Bass
Brian Childrose - Percussion
Chuck Valentine - Lead Guitar
Hometown: East Greenbush, NY
Genre: Jam Band
Booking Info: schoolbus78@yahoo.com
Website: www.ubyellow.com
A School Bus Yellow fan wrote us recently to say:
If you are looking for a great time, go see School Bus Yellow. School Bus Yellow are a bouncy, feel good bunch of guys, always there with a big hug and kind words for everyone they meet.They are super friendly and generous. You could say their personalities are reflected in their music. School Bus Yellow is one of the most fun bands I've seen in a year, and I've seen a lot. They are extremely in touch with the audience and it is apparent they are playing for you and me. The music is a combination of Reggae with some Funk and a healthy dose of Improvisational Jams that tell a new story at every show. Together with lyrics that are fun, sometimes silly and maybe a bit weird at times, the focus is mainly on getting down, down and dancing, moving your feet and feeling good. Next time you are looking for a good time, go see School Bus Yellow. The band is currently touring like mad across the Northeast, has some shows scheduled for down south and is being added to the lineups of quite a few music festivals. Check out their website for all the news!
The School Bus frequently takes to the road, bringing their music to new audiences with an exhausting schedule of shows all over the Northeast. The guys tell us they plan to resurrect the jam band scene here in the Capital Region, and we tend to think they just might have the energy and determination needed to pull it off. Here's what they had to say when we caught them at the band house recently between road trips.
Where does SBY call home?
East Greenbush, NY
How long have you been making music?
The five of us have been making music together since the band's creation on New Year's Eve, in 2004. We have all been playing music for years.
Why are school buses yellow - do you guys have some insight? The only thing we know is that the color is actually called International Chrome. That's all the insight we have on that.
What or who inspired you to become musicians?
All the guys have been inspired by all different genres of music. Collectively bands include The Grateful Dead, Phish, and moe to name a few in our genre of music. Many other artists have played a part in inspiring us as well. The real thing that inspires the band now in the live music experience is the reaction of the fans to our music. The band strongly believes that every SBY show should be an experience for the band and our fans to join in what is the live music experience.
Can you tell us about a weird experience the band has had at a gig?
MMMM.....which one? Anytime you get these five guys and their crew together something weird is bound to happen.
We played at Higherground in Burlington, VT with Max Creek this past winter and Mike Gordon from Phish showed up at the show and watched SBY play the last couple songs of their set from the side of the stage. Later that night, Mike sat in and played with Max Creek for some of their second set. The weird thing about the story isn't Mike Gordon showing because the members of Phish are known to make random appearences at Higherground and other spots in Burlington where the band is from. The weird thing was that Higherground has a huge extravagant light show, but part of this light show is that they need smoke to enhance the lighting, and Higherground's fog machine was broken at the time. So who comes to the rescue but the the guys from SBY, who just happened to have a spare fog machine in one of their cars. So the weird thing was here was Max Creek, along with Mike Gordon on stage all using School Bus Yellow's fog machine to enhance the light show. And it be a melodic jam at the Monopole in Plattsburgh, NY that makes a fan in a packed house get on the dance floor squirming around like a snake, or a 30+ minute onslaught of non-stop music serging in and out of SBY songs into jams, into covers, then back into SBY songs. We can't tell you how this happens or what songs will flow into others because it's a spur of the moment decision while the band is on stage - so to find out you'll just have to join the party at a show.
VH-1 just called and is going to do a documentary on the band - what do you hope they won't reveal about SBY?
Our plot to take over the world.
Pre-gig ritual, do you have one?
Shots of Captain Morgan and some others depending on show.
What should a crowd expect at one of your shows?
A full out party with the band, with great music and good times to be had for all who join the party. Anything goes at our shows. Our shows are all about the fans and we're there to have fun with them - that is why we play music, for our fans. The shows are crazy with a light show that adds a visual experience. We also bring along a full-out SBY store and merchandise rep with CD's and all kinds of SBY goodies when we play at a venue. Come see what we are talking about - join the party.
School Bus Yellow will be headlining the Riverjam Concert in Troy this weekend on June 4th. The band will also perform at Troy's Riverfest on June 18th and has lined up a weekly residency at Savannah's in downtown Albany where they'll perform each Thrusday night following the Alive At Five Concerts. For a full listing of shows be sure to check jambase.com or the band's website.
Gregory Finley - Drums and Vocals
Jeremy Dunham - Guitar and Vocals
Kevin Greer - Slaps his Bass
Brian Childrose - Percussion
Chuck Valentine - Lead Guitar
Hometown: East Greenbush, NY
Genre: Jam Band
Booking Info: schoolbus78@yahoo.com
Website: www.ubyellow.com
A School Bus Yellow fan wrote us recently to say:
If you are looking for a great time, go see School Bus Yellow. School Bus Yellow are a bouncy, feel good bunch of guys, always there with a big hug and kind words for everyone they meet.They are super friendly and generous. You could say their personalities are reflected in their music. School Bus Yellow is one of the most fun bands I've seen in a year, and I've seen a lot. They are extremely in touch with the audience and it is apparent they are playing for you and me. The music is a combination of Reggae with some Funk and a healthy dose of Improvisational Jams that tell a new story at every show. Together with lyrics that are fun, sometimes silly and maybe a bit weird at times, the focus is mainly on getting down, down and dancing, moving your feet and feeling good. Next time you are looking for a good time, go see School Bus Yellow. The band is currently touring like mad across the Northeast, has some shows scheduled for down south and is being added to the lineups of quite a few music festivals. Check out their website for all the news!
The School Bus frequently takes to the road, bringing their music to new audiences with an exhausting schedule of shows all over the Northeast. The guys tell us they plan to resurrect the jam band scene here in the Capital Region, and we tend to think they just might have the energy and determination needed to pull it off. Here's what they had to say when we caught them at the band house recently between road trips.
Where does SBY call home?
East Greenbush, NY
How long have you been making music?
The five of us have been making music together since the band's creation on New Year's Eve, in 2004. We have all been playing music for years.
Why are school buses yellow - do you guys have some insight? The only thing we know is that the color is actually called International Chrome. That's all the insight we have on that.
What or who inspired you to become musicians?
All the guys have been inspired by all different genres of music. Collectively bands include The Grateful Dead, Phish, and moe to name a few in our genre of music. Many other artists have played a part in inspiring us as well. The real thing that inspires the band now in the live music experience is the reaction of the fans to our music. The band strongly believes that every SBY show should be an experience for the band and our fans to join in what is the live music experience.
Can you tell us about a weird experience the band has had at a gig?
MMMM.....which one? Anytime you get these five guys and their crew together something weird is bound to happen.
We played at Higherground in Burlington, VT with Max Creek this past winter and Mike Gordon from Phish showed up at the show and watched SBY play the last couple songs of their set from the side of the stage. Later that night, Mike sat in and played with Max Creek for some of their second set. The weird thing about the story isn't Mike Gordon showing because the members of Phish are known to make random appearences at Higherground and other spots in Burlington where the band is from. The weird thing was that Higherground has a huge extravagant light show, but part of this light show is that they need smoke to enhance the lighting, and Higherground's fog machine was broken at the time. So who comes to the rescue but the the guys from SBY, who just happened to have a spare fog machine in one of their cars. So the weird thing was here was Max Creek, along with Mike Gordon on stage all using School Bus Yellow's fog machine to enhance the light show. And it be a melodic jam at the Monopole in Plattsburgh, NY that makes a fan in a packed house get on the dance floor squirming around like a snake, or a 30+ minute onslaught of non-stop music serging in and out of SBY songs into jams, into covers, then back into SBY songs. We can't tell you how this happens or what songs will flow into others because it's a spur of the moment decision while the band is on stage - so to find out you'll just have to join the party at a show.
VH-1 just called and is going to do a documentary on the band - what do you hope they won't reveal about SBY?
Our plot to take over the world.
Pre-gig ritual, do you have one?
Shots of Captain Morgan and some others depending on show.
What should a crowd expect at one of your shows?
A full out party with the band, with great music and good times to be had for all who join the party. Anything goes at our shows. Our shows are all about the fans and we're there to have fun with them - that is why we play music, for our fans. The shows are crazy with a light show that adds a visual experience. We also bring along a full-out SBY store and merchandise rep with CD's and all kinds of SBY goodies when we play at a venue. Come see what we are talking about - join the party.
School Bus Yellow will be headlining the Riverjam Concert in Troy this weekend on June 4th. The band will also perform at Troy's Riverfest on June 18th and has lined up a weekly residency at Savannah's in downtown Albany where they'll perform each Thrusday night following the Alive At Five Concerts. For a full listing of shows be sure to check jambase.com or the band's website.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Blues Benefit Concert Features The Maynard Brothers and The George Boone Blues Band
On June 10th, two area favorites - The Maynard Brothers Band and George Boone Blues Band will come together for The ColeRPalooza Blues Benefit Concert. Cole Nowak is a five year old who was recently diagnosed with RP or Retinitis Pigmentosa, which causes the retina of his eyes to degenerate. Cole's night vision has already diminished dramatically, and he will eventually go blind unless a cure can be found.
Cole's parents, Bill and Donna, are working hard to raise funds for research to benefit Cole and others with RP. All benefit proceeds will be dontated to establish a fund for research in Cole's name and will be specifically used to study and hopefully find a cure for x-linked RP. Fight for Sight is a national organization that was founded in 1946 by Mildred Weisenfeld. Faced with the same degenerative eye disease that Cole suffers from,she was shocked to learn that research into the causes and cures of vision diseases and disorders was virtually nonexistent. Not content to sit back and wait for others to decide that research was the vital link to finding treatments, Mrs. Weisenfeld founded Fight for Sight. Today, Fight for Sight is recognized as an international leader in the battlefor the preservation and restoration of sight through research.
The ColeRPalooza Blues Benefit will take place on Friday, June 10, 2005 at Central Park in Schenectady. There will be a BBQ Buffet in the Central Park Pavilion followed by an evening of top notch entertainment in the Ampitheater courtesy of the Maynard Brothers Band and The George Boone Blues Band. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For information please contact Julie toll free at 1-877-679-6060.
Cole's parents, Bill and Donna, are working hard to raise funds for research to benefit Cole and others with RP. All benefit proceeds will be dontated to establish a fund for research in Cole's name and will be specifically used to study and hopefully find a cure for x-linked RP. Fight for Sight is a national organization that was founded in 1946 by Mildred Weisenfeld. Faced with the same degenerative eye disease that Cole suffers from,she was shocked to learn that research into the causes and cures of vision diseases and disorders was virtually nonexistent. Not content to sit back and wait for others to decide that research was the vital link to finding treatments, Mrs. Weisenfeld founded Fight for Sight. Today, Fight for Sight is recognized as an international leader in the battlefor the preservation and restoration of sight through research.
The ColeRPalooza Blues Benefit will take place on Friday, June 10, 2005 at Central Park in Schenectady. There will be a BBQ Buffet in the Central Park Pavilion followed by an evening of top notch entertainment in the Ampitheater courtesy of the Maynard Brothers Band and The George Boone Blues Band. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For information please contact Julie toll free at 1-877-679-6060.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Local Musicians Come Together For Troy's River Jam Benefit Concert
The City of Troy's free River Jam Concert will feature a full day of great live performances by Adam Foster, School Bus Yellow, Scarecrow Collection, Rev Tor Band, Raisinhead, Oshe andDr Jah & The Love Prophets and will benefit the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY.Please bring non perishable canned food itemsto donate. The concert is being sponsored by the City of Troy and albanystage.com in association with the River Street Beat Shop. River Jam will be held on Saturday, June 4th from noon - 7pm; an after party will follow at Artie's River Street Stage.
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