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Posts Tagged ‘Alecia Chakour’

July 2013 Music Calendar

July 2013 Music Calendar

Calendar updated daily!

FESTIVALS

Celebrate Brooklyn!: One of New York City’s longest running, free, outdoor performing arts festivals. Launched in 1979, as a catalyst for Brooklyn’s performing arts scene and to bring people back into Prospect Park after years of neglect, Celebrate Brooklyn has been an anchor in the park’s revitalization and has become one of the city’s foremost summer cultural attractions. Over the course of its history Celebrate Brooklyn has presented over 1,700 artists and ensembles reflective of the borough’s diversity, ranging from internationally acclaimed performers to emerging, cutting-edge artists.

Central Park’s Summer Stage: An annual, free performing arts summer festival founded in 1986 which takes place at Rumsey Play field in Manhattan, New York City’s Central Park and, since 2010, in parks throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

“In a city happily inundated with summertime cultural offerings, the SummerStage festival stands alone for its dizzying array of options, its local enthusiasm, and its general aura of awe. This year spreads more than 100 free performances across 17 parks in all five boroughs.” The New York Times

Lowdown Hudson Blues Festival (New York, NY): Calling all jazz fans! The third annual Lowdown Hudson Blues Festival at Brookfield Place (formerly the World Financial Center) features some top notch jazz performers: B.B King, Los Lobos, Los Lonely Boys, Alejandro Escovedo and The James Hunter Six. The festival is FREE and takes place on July 10th and 11th. – See more at: http://www.metro.us/newyork/events/lowdown-hudson-blues-festival#sthash.bUp5N2Sk.dpuf

Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival (Maplewood, NJ): Thirteen bands on Sat, Jul 13, and twelve bands on Sun, Jul 14 25 miles outside the city in Maplewood, NJ.

Music Frees All Festival 2013 (New York, NY): Now in its third year, the 2013 Music Frees All Festival will take place over three days, July 19-21, in New York City. Proceeds will go to the Scotty Hard Trust. TICKETS: http://musicfreesallfestival.bpt.me/

Pleasantville Music Festival – (Pleasantville, NY): For $15 (Seniors) and $40 (Everyone else), you can enjoy the 9th Annual Musica Festival put on by “107.1 The Peak” radio station. Ten musical acts, including Brett Dennen, Easy Star All-Stars, The Kopecky Family Band, Bobby Long, Delta Rae, Red Wanting Blue and Mary C and the Stellars and more. The gates open at 12 Noon on July 13 & 14th, 2013. Music continues until 8:30PM. The Pleasantville Music Festival is ADA accessible! TICKETS: http://www.pleasantvillemusicfestival.com/tickets.html

CONCERTS

Monday, July 1, 2013

  • (FREE!!) Dave Eggar @ Rockwood Music Hall
  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($10) Alecia Chakour Band: First Mondays @ Rockwood Music Hall
  • ($10-$15) A Decade Of Soul  Classic Soul & Motown Revue @ B.B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

  • ($15) Boogie Back Tuesdays with  Q-Tip @ Cielo – New York, NY

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

  • (FREE!!) James Casey @ Rockwood Music Hall
  • (FREE!!) TAUK July Residency @ Spike Hill
  • ($35-$55) Suzanne Vega – Summer Residency (w/ Full Band) @ City Winery
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion – Bangor, ME

Thursday, July 4, 2013

  • (FREE!!) Raul Midón with special guest Master Kong Nay @ Target Free David Rubenstein Atrium
  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)

Friday, July 5, 2013

  • ($10) Fort Knox Five @ Brooklyn Bowl (12pm set)
  • ($15) Deep Banana Blackout @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center – Saratoga Springs, NY

Saturday, July 6, 2013

  • ($15) Deep Banana Blackout @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($35-$55) 10,000 Maniacs (Album Release) @ City Winery
  • ($40) She & Him @ SummerStage – Central Park, NY
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center – Saratoga Springs, NY

Sunday, July 7, 2013

  • ($10) Klezmer Brunch – Ben Holmes Trio (10am)
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($35-$55) Dave Mason @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center – Saratoga Springs, NY

Monday, July 8, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($12) Now vs. Now @ The Bowery Electric
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($40) She & Him @ SummerStage – Central Park, NY
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

  • ($15) Boogie Back Tuesdays with  Q-Tip @ Cielo
  • ($25-$100) Unity Tour 2013: 311 with Cypress Hill and G. Love & Special Sauce @ PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

  • LOWDOWN HUDSON BLUES FESTIVAL
    • (FREE!!) B.B. King @ Brookefield Place Plaza
  • (FREE!!) Caravan of Thieves @ Parker Press Park – Woodbridge, NJ
  • ($20) The Skatalites @ Mexicali Live – Teaneck, NJ
  • ($35-$120) Cyndi Lauper @ Beacon Theatre
  • ($35-$55) Suzanne Vega – Summer Residency (w/ Full Band) @ City Winery
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel
  • ($60) Ledisi @ Luxury Infinity Yacht
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ

Thursday, July 11, 2013

  • LOWDOWN HUDSON BLUES FESTIVAL
    • (FREE!!) Los Lobos @ Brookefield Place Plaza
  • (FREE!!) TAUK July Residency @ Spike Hill
  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($10) Q-Tip @ Stage 48
  • ($15-$20) Carbon Leaf @ City Winery
  • ($15-$20) Reggie Watts @ Mercury Lounge
  • ($22-$26) Buckwheat Zydeco @ B.B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($25-$35)  Sly & Robbie @ Irving Plaza powered by Klipsch
  • ($40-$105) Furthur w/ Phil Lesh @ Barclays Center
  • ($42-$53) Belle and Sebastian @ Prospect Park Bandshell
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel

Friday, July 12, 2013

  • (FREE!!) Cheap Trick @ Seaside Summer Concert Series
  • ($18-$20) Rachael Yamagata @ Maxwell’s – Hoboken, NJ
  • ($35-$75) Cyndi Lauper @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
  • ($40-$105) Furthur @ PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ
  • ($50) Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ The McKittrick Hotel
  • ($60-$75) Phish @ Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre – Wantagh, NY

Saturday, July 13, 2013

  • Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival (Maplewood, NJ)
    • w/ Joan Osborne
  • ($15-$40) Pleasantville Music Festival (Pleasantville, NY)
    • Brett Dennen, Easy Star All-Stars, The Kopecky Family Band, Bobby Long, Delta Rae, Red Wanting Blue and Mary C and the Stellars and more.
  • (FREE!!) Philip Glass @ Celebrate Brooklyn! Performing Arts Festival
  • ($10) Wax Poetic @ Nublu
  • ($25-$100) Cypress Hill and G. Love & Special Sauce @ Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
  • ($35-$75) Chris Isaak @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ City Winery
  • ($50) Aerosmith, Barbecue & Craft Beer! @ Randalls Island Park

Sunday, July 14, 2013

  • Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival (Maplewood, NJ)
    • w/ Joan Osborne
  • (FREE) Tall Tall Trees @ Brooklyn Fire Proof
  • ($10) Klezmer Brunch w/ Benjy Fox-Rosen & Michsel Winograd @ City Winery
  • ($15-$40) Blues Traveler @ Empire City Casino – Yonkers, NY
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill (Eary)
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ City Winery

Monday, July 15, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ @ City Winery
  • ($60-$95) The Monkees @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

  • ($15) Boogie Back Tuesdays with  Q-Tip @ Cielo
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ City Winery
  • ($60-$95) Melissa Etheridge @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

  • ($22) Howie Day ($42) @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($30-$100) Mobb Deep @ Stage 48 – New York, NY
  • ($35) Les Paul Monday’s with Jimmy Vivino featuring The Les Paul Trio @ Iridium Jazz Club

Thursday, July 18, 2013

  • (FREE!!) TAUK July Residency @ Spike Hill
  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($12) OMAHA DINER: Charlie Hunter, Steven Bernstein, Skerik & Bobby Previte @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($22) Howie Day @ City Winery
  • ($25-$30) Jars of Clay @ B.B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($35-$75) Alice Cooper @ Beacon Theatre

Friday, July 19, 2013

  • Music Frees All Festival 2013 @ The Bell House – Brooklyn, NY
    • ($25) Antibalas / The Stepkids / DJ Prince Paul / Pegasus Warning
  • ($10) Brothers Past @ Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($10) Will Bernard @ The Blue Note – New York, NY
  • ($40-$95) Zac Brown Band @ PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ
  • ($150-$300) Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z @ Yankee Stadium
    • ($25) Pre Party Cruise to the Jay Z and Justin Timberlake Concert @ Rocks Off River Cruise

Saturday, July 20, 2013

  • Music Frees All Festival 2013 @ The Bell House
    • ($25) Antibalas / The Stepkids / DJ Prince Paul / Pegasus Warning
  • ($20) Apollo Run w/ Krissy Krissy @ Rockwood Music Hal – New York, NY
  • ($35-$76) Hot Tuna With Special Guest Leon Russell @ State Theatre – New Brunswick, NJ
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ City Winery
  • ($150-$300) Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z @ Yankee Stadium
  • ($25) Pre Party Cruise to the Jay Z and Justin Timberlake Concert @ Rocks Off River Cruise

Sunday, July 21, 2013

  • Music Frees All Festival 2013 @ The Bell House – Brooklyn, NY
    • ($25) Antibalas / The Stepkids / DJ Prince Paul / Pegasus Warning
  • ($10) Klezmer Brunch w/ Moshe Bonen & HaTaklitim @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • ($40-$55) Everclear @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
  • ($42) An Intimate Solo / Acoustic performance by Citizen Cope @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($58-$135) Lyle Lovett & His Acoustic Group @ Tarrytown Music Hall – Tarrytown, NY

Monday, July 22, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($35-$40) Anders Osborne, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue / Soulive @ Central Park Summerstage – New York, NY
  • ($42-$50) fun. w/ special guest Tegan and Sara @ Hudson River Park – Pier 26
  • ($65) Phil Lesh w/ John Medeski @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

  • ($15) Boogie Back Tuesdays with  Q-Tip @ Cielo – New York, NY
  • ($28-38) Xavier Rudd w/ Nahko & Medicine for the People @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($35-$60) Brandi Carlile @ State Theatre – New Brunswick, NJ
  • ($50) fun. with very special guests Tegan and Sara @ Hudson River Park – Pier 26
  • ($65) Phil Lesh w/ John Medeski @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

  • ($15) Allen Stone @ Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($15) Dragon Smoke Feat. Stanton Moore & Robert Mercurio (Galactic) Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk) with Anders Osborne @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($25-$35) Dawes @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
  • ($28-38) Xavier Rudd w/ Nahko & Medicine for the People @ City Winery – New York, NY

Thursday, July 25, 2013

  • (FREE!!) Jason Gallagher (of Leroy Justice) @ Rockwood Music Hall – New York, NY
  • (FREE!!) Smokey Robinson @ Seaside Summer Concert Series – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($15) Zongo Junction @ Littlefield – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($60) Paul Weller @ The Apollo Theater – New York, NY

Friday, July 26, 2013

  • ($10) Tall Tall Trees @ Mercury Lounge – New York, NY
  • ($35-$40) The Gaslight Anthem @ Hudson River Park – Pier 26 – New York, NY
  • ($40-$85) Rock The Blues Summer Jam 2013 @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
  • ($60) Paul Weller @ Webster Hall – New York, NY
  • ($80) Americanarama Festival of Music featuring Bob Dylan & His Band / Wilco / My Morning Jacket @ Pier A – Hoboken, NJ

Saturday, July 27, 2013

  • (FREE!!) The Gaslight Anthem @ Irving Plaza – New York, NY
  • ($10) Underground Horns @ Nublu – New York, NY
  • ($35-$50) Booker T. Jones @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($40-$105) Americanarama Festival of Music feat. Bob Dylan and His Band + more! Nikon @ Jones Beach Theater, Wantagh, NY
  • ($50-$80) Robert Plant presents The Sensational Space Shifters @ Celebrate Brooklyn at Prospect Park Bandshell – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($70-$160) BON JOVI Because We Can – The Tour @ MetLife Stadium – East Rutherford, NJ

Sunday, July 28, 2013

  • ($10) Klezmer Brunch w/ Paul Shapiro Ribs & Brisket Revue @ City Winery – New York, NY
  • ($15-$45) Kansas @ Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway – Yonkers, NY
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($35-$40) The Gaslight Anthem w/ The Hold Steady @ Hudson River Park, Pier 26 – New York, NY
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • ($45-$95) An Evening with YES @ The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY

Monday, July 29, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($15) Rebirth Brass Band @ Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

  • (Free!!) Barenaked Ladies @ Celebrate Brooklyn! at the Prospect Park Bandshell
  • ($15) Boogie Back Tuesdays with  Q-Tip @ Cielo – New York, NY

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

  • ($22-$60) Slick Rick w/ Lifted (live band) @ Stage 48 – New York, NY
  • ($30) Ravi Coltrane @ The Iridium – New York, NY

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Bowlive IV Recap Including Day & Night 8 Reviews

We’ve officially been “Bowlived” for the fourth year as Soulive reached the finish line of their 4th Annual residency, Bowlive, on Saturday night. It’s a bittersweet feeling; similar to the feelings you get when you have to leave an amazing few weeks at summer camp. For the members of Soulive, seeing the regular faces and New York City fan dedication is a wonderful energy for them to play off of throughout the run. In turn, fans get to see their favorite artists night after night, performing exquisitely executed originals and crushing covers with spectacular guests. All the while, both fans and band dance around with each other, their friends, and other musicians in the audience who are there just to bare witness. Everyone smiles and engages each other, soaking up every glorious note. It’s a symbiotic relationship that is hard to fall away from after being dipped so deeply for eight nights. So, when the end comes, we must remind ourselves that these residencies are special because they only happen once a year! Soulive reminds themselves that they have something special to look forward to as much as the audience does. And each year, the audience witnesses the unfolding of a beautiful musical dynasty that Eric Krasno and brothers Neal and Alan Evans have created.

 Unlike the three previous year’s run, Soulive chose to focus their energy into eight shows instead of ten. This choice applies great pressure to any band who chooses to change the formula of a well-established and respected event. Bowlive fans expect a certain caliber of guests, a high level of surprise sit-ins, and some spectacular musical experiences that sometimes end up being a once-in-a-lifetime moment.  Soulive knows this to be true and always takes the time to consider such factors. How about having Mod dancers bust out into the bowling lanes during the second set of Night I?! It was just go time at that point!

Over the course of eight nights, guitarist Eric Krasno, bass keyboardist Neal Evans and drummer Alan Evans provided a stage and support for fantastic and exciting artists. They played endless jams in multiple styles across the musical spectrum, which is an important goal of the residency every year. Special guests included rocking Southern Blues brothers, guitarist Luther Dickinson and his brother, drummer Cody Dickinson, the 1970’s soul vocalist, Lee Fields and his modern day counterpart, Nigel Hall. There was the unmatched pedal steel slide guitarist Robert Randolph, legendary jam scene DJ, DJ Logic, and The Shady Horns lent their wall of sound during the second week with the help of crushing saxophonist Bill Evans one night. Some of America’s most outstanding keyboardists, 1970’s Memphis blues keyboardist, Booker T. Jones, mad scientist and keyboard wizard, John Medeski, and the ever experimental Marco Benevento, dominated their time on stage. Stepping in to melt faces on guitar was the astonishing Los Lobos’s David Hildago and The Meter’s Leo Nocentell. Soulive closed out their epic week playing with America’s most famous funk bassist, George Porter. Jr.

Another exciting element of Bowlive each year is the choice opening bands Soulive picks to set the audience’s mood each night. Due to a benefit at the Brooklyn Bowl on Night Six, there were only seven opening groups, all delivering a variety of musical power. The ridiculous ragers who make up Kung-Fu opened the run with so much fury. It was a perfect choice. The rocking Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds, The London Souls and Leroy Justice got the dance floor grooving. It was also a great pleasure to see two powerful females amongst the male-dominated residency by way of Alecia Chakour (The Alecia Chakour Band) and Arleigh Kincheloe (Sister Sparrow). The soul and flavor of love got shot to our hearts with The Nigel Hall Band, the Alecia Chakour Band and Cocheme Gastulum’s The Electric Sound of Johnny Arrow. You’re encouraged to read about them all in the previous night’s posts.

Then, you have the unannounced guests who are a separate list of continual, crushing talent. The Allman Brother’s southern rock guitarist Warren Haynes and slide guitarist Derek Trucks surprised the audience with a secret full third set on Night Two. Trombonists Sanders Sermon (Tedeschi/Trucks Band) and Natalie Cressman (Trey Anastatio Band) and trumpeters Maurice Brown and Igmar Thomas, and saxophonist Cocheme Gastulum (Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings), enhanced the wall of horns over the run on various nights. Behind everything, the chemistry and talents of Eric Krasno, Neal Evans and Alan Evans, are what make Bowlive possible.

Perhaps the most special show for many Soulive fans is the Kids show. Soulive held another KidsBowl performance early Saturday afternoon from 2pm to 3pm. These specific types of shows bring Soulive’s music to both the fans children and the unknowing adults who bring their kids to bowl on a Saturday, not knowing what a treat they are in for.  For dedicated Bowlive fans, the kids show is a wonderful way for the individual dancing alone at night to bring his or her family to meet one another.  The reality of life becomes evident as the adults were in “parent” mode, not “party” mode. Babies were crawling on the dance floor and children of all ages were running around in bowling shoes. The lights were on and bumpers were out. In their hour, they performed a few Soulive originals and brought Meter’s bassist, George Porter, Jr. It was when the set was over that the real raging began, however, when the children were allowed on stage to play with instruments and dance.

KidsBowl Set:

Uncle Jr.

Vapor

Hat  Trick

Turn It Out

Hey Pockey Way (w/ George Porter, Jr.)

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)

 It was back to party time with the evening show and The Alecia Chakour Band opening. Her blues siren vocals backed by Neal Evans on keys, bassist Alex Chakour, drummer Caito Sanchez, saxophonist Cocheme Gastulum, and trombonist Dave “Smoota” Smith, were perfection.  After a lovely instrumental intro, Chakour sang seven band originals, including “Runaway,” “Over Again,” “You Didn’t Tell Me,” and “The Sun.” Each member of her band taking solos and leads amongst her sweet sounding vocals. This was a fantastic group of soulful musicians and a perfect choice to transition into the funk-filled evening.

Opening Set:

1. Instrumental

2. Runaway

3. Over Again

4. You Didn’t Tell Me

5. The Sun

6.Ghost

7. Shirley

8. Everything Time I See You (Stevie Wonder Cover)

The important point of all of this, simply, was the music. Music that creates a passion within Soulive and luckily, that passion is extended to the fans. For the final evening of their amazing residency Soulive would play host to their mentor in funk, Meter’s bassist, George Porter Jr. But not before bringing it home for the Soulive purists, proving once again what a sick power trio they truly are.  The first set was pure fire, and with help from the Shady Horns, there was nothing to divert our thoughts from what was most important.  The set was full of sick Soulive originals, “Uncle Jr.,” “Aladdin,” and “One in Seven.” “Lenny,” a Stevie Ray Vaughn cover and highlight of any set, allows Krasno to open up a can of whoop ass upon your ears. He broke his string during his ripping solo. Enough said. The London Souls’ Tash O’Neal (guitar and vocals) and Chris St. Hilaire (drums) joined for the a “cover” of their own “Steady Are You Ready” then stayed on to help deliver a crushing version of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Killin’ Floor” in the vein of Electric Flag’s version. Remember, as we learned on Night Four, Krasno is a huge Tash O’Neal fan, so you can imagine the chemistry.

Set I:

Uncle Jr. (w/ Shady Horns)

Aladdin (w/ Shady Horns)

Come Together (Beatles cover)

Lenny (Stevie Ray Vaughn cover)

One In Seven

Steady Are you Ready (London Souls cover w/ Tash O’Neal & Chris St. Hilaire)

Killin Floor (Howlin’ Wolf Cover…Electric Flag Version w/ w/ Tash O’Neal & Chris St. Hilaire)

 Soulive performed a beautiful rendition of “El Ron,” before George Porter, Jr. was introduced for Set II, continuing on as one of Bowlive’s greatest musical mainstays.  During this tune, the Shady Horns, with the help of guest saxophonist Cocheme Gastulum, broke off into an extended improvisational blowing session with Alan supporting on drums. For lack of better words, it could best be described as a drum line for horns. A Hornline, if you will?! The entire second set evolved into of slew of classics from The Meter’s catalog.

“People Say,” kicked off a funk-fueled set with James Casey delivering a rousing solo. Casey has carried a saxophone around his next all week and when he plays, it’s clear that he was meant to blow a horn.  However, it must be mentioned that over the run, Casey provided grooving percussion on the congas for many songs. It was a dance party for “Hey Pockey Way,” as Porter announced that, “Everyday should be Mardi Gras!!!”  Then, audience participation time for the fun tune, “Hand Clapping Song.”  The next Meter’s original, “Out in the Country,” was performed in the style of Porter’s slow emotional arrangement from his It’s Life album. This was a gorgeously played ballad that tugged at the heartstrings of the crowd in a deep way. From a personal perspective, it brought tears to my eyes, almost opening the floodgates until I reeled it back in.  I wasn’t alone in this outpour of emotions. Again, acknowledging that this super-stimulating, night time version of summer camp, full of friendly faces, is like ending an addiction cold-turkey. Bowlive is an institution in the Jam Band universe at this point, it lasts longer than many music festivals, and it’s not easy for the die-hards when it ends.

The set ended and no one moved.  There was just endless screaming and shouting of Krasno and the Evans brother’s names. Then, Brooklyn Bowl owner, Peter Shapiro, stepped onto the stage. On the last night of every Bowlive, right before the final encore of the run, Peter Sharpio does something special for Bowlive’s loyal audience in an effort to show his gratitude for their support of live music.  At the end of the first Bowlive, 700 shots of tequila were handed out from the stage.  He kept it entirely mellow last year by passing around Aromatherapy plants: Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, asking that the audience to grab sprigs of each plant and inhale. This was to encourage a revitalization within our body, mind and soul for the energy to dance on for one more song. Not missing a creative beat, Peter Shapiro took the mic on this final night and thanked us for our loyalty in proper rockstar fashion. He alerted the audience that this was a milestone 40th show for Bowlive and that the he had had made t-shirts with “40” on the back and “BOWLIVE” on the front. XL shirts went flying around the venue and Shapiro asked that the audience put them on right away before Soulive would deliver us our double encore of “He Bite Me (The Dragon)” and “Ain’t No Use.” The gifting of the shirts was a smart and fun way to end this year’s Bowlive.

Set II:

El Ron (w/ Shady Horns and Cocheme Gastulum)

People Say

Take A Chance

Hey Pockey Way

Jezebel

Hand Clapping Song

Out In the Country

Encore:

He Bite Me (The Dragon)

Ain’t No Use

Soulive has truly cemented their reign as a musical dynasty. A talented trio on top of their game in this unforgiving musical bastion of NYC. The magnitude of music overheard during the last two weeks was dynamic and inspiring.  The guests and the musicians solos were magnificent, diverse and captivating. Soulive always gives us something to look forward to every single night of Bowlive and this year was nothing less.

On personal note, I hope these reviews have helped supplement the wealth of musical knowledge that Soulive bequeathed upon us during Bowlive IV.  It is a delight and a  privilege to witness Bowlive every year and count Soulive and the Brooklyn Bowl as part of my local music scene. It also goes without saying that it is an honor and a true highlight of my career to be blessed to write for this amazing phenomenon called Bowlive. Thank you to Peter Shapiro, the Brooklyn Bowl, all the staff and production crew. Thank you to Royal Family Records for the opportunity to cover such a delightful event. A giant thank you to all the guests who lent their sound to the stage. Finally, the biggest congratulations and thank you to Alan Evans, Neal Evans and Eric Krasno for making it all possible. Your fans eagerly await to see what you have in store for Bowlive V!

Karen Dugan

tinyrager.com

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Bowlive IV Night 4 Recap w/ Booker T, David Hidalgo & The Shady Horns | Tonight Hidalgo Returns, Marco & The Shady Horns

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Dedicated music lovers brought themselves out to the Brooklyn Bowl for the start of Soulive’s second week of the Bowlive IV residency. Guitarist Eric Krasno, bass keyboardist Neal Evans and drummer Alan Evans are back with a new week and new musical adventures.

_DSC4418Last week’s roster was packed with sit-ins by southern blues rock guitarist Luther and percussionist Cody Dickinson (The North Mississippi Allstars), the fierce harmonica playing of John Popper (The Blues Travelers), the 70’s flare of vocalist Lee Fields and his Expression Horns, the pedal steel slide guitar styling of Robert Randolph (Robert Randolph and the Family Band), the soul-filled flavor of vocalist Nigel Hall and the spinning talents of DJ Logic. Surprise guests included the amazing Allman Brothers Band guitarists Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks and trombonist Sanders Sermon (Tedeschi/Trucks Band).

One of the highlights of Bowlive this year has been the killer opening bands kicking off every night. Kung Fu absolutely blew the roof off the first night, setting a pace of rage for the rest of the week. The second night followed with the powerful 8-piece Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds who kept the energy high and the Alecia Chakour Band delivered their sultry sounds on Saturday. You can read about those shows in earlier posts here on TinyRager.com.

IMG_4542

Following one of the best first weeks in Bowlive history, the formula would to remain the same. The high powered, high energy, talented horn-crunching musicianship of saxophonist Cochemea Gastulem (Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings) and his band, The Electric Sounds of Johnny Arrow, showcased a different style of music to Soulive fans. The sounds of Africa’s Fela Kuti and 70’s baritone player Lekan Animashanu provided influence to the tunes. One’s hips couldn’t help but begin to grind to the pulsating percussion infused music. After the opening set, there were members of the audience who could be overheard discussing these new sounds that Soulive had introduced to their Bowlive roster.

Set List:

Dark City
Carlito
Impala 73
You’re So Good To Me
Heleyos
Lluva Con Nieve
Fathom 5
No Goodbyes

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The theme for the rest of the night was simple. Play one strong, satisfying Tribute to Stax Records with one of the coolest, hippest, electric blues keyboardist of all time, Booker T. Jones (Booker T. and the MG’s.) However, the audience had to be patient. Soulive purists still needed to see their favorite trio stand alone. Alan, Neal and Eric performed “Outrage” and “Dig” before the Shady Horns joined the stage. Baritone saxophonist Ryan Zoidis and trumpeter Eric Bloom (Lettuce) and James Casey (Trey Anastasio Band) brought another layer of funk to the vibe with “Hatrick” and even more horns joined when Cochemea’s baritone saxophonist Freddy Deboe and Lee Fields band’s saxophonist Mike Buckley sat in on “For Granted.”  Their powerful horn solos overwhelmed the speakers causing feedback that took a minute to control and it was back into full funky rage.

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When Booker T. Jones came on stage, the crowd went wild. To experience an entire set with Booker T. and Soulive was liberating. However, to see how excited Soulive was, well, that was just icing on the cake of what was a delicious remaining night of music. Krasno put it best as he spoke to the audience, explaining that as much fun as it is for the fans, it’s equally as fun for Soulive, as they are fans themselves. Fans that have the distinct pleasure and honor of inviting their mentors and influences on stage to join them. The passion for Booker T. was also evident as you looked around the audience and saw other famous Jam-world faces such as Erik Kalb (Deep Banana Blackout), David Bailis (Pimps of Joytime), and Alecia Chakour (Alecia Chakour Band).

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Booker T. and Soulive crushed out iconic Booker T. and the MGs hits “Hip Hug Her,” “Hang ‘Em High,” “Time is Tight,” and more. They then played “Born Under A Bad Sign,” which Albert King made famous but was written by Booker who along with the MG’s and The Memphis horns appear on that studio version. There was the catchy instrumental versions of Cee Lo Green’s “Crazy,” and Lauryn Hill’s “Everything is Everything,” with each instrument on stage taking the lead on each song.  It was sharp, stunning and solid. The Booker T’s Memphis Soul Sound was supported wonderfully by Soulive, all three of whom were grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire set. Finally, it wouldn’t be Bowlive without a surprise special guest. Guitarist David Hidalgo (Los Lobos), in town a night early for his Wednesday night Bowlive appearance, would pop out halfway in the middle of tunes then disappear again. This would continue through the set, teasing us with what would be seen on night five.

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The Booker T. encore was the most recognizable tune of all, the instrumental classic, “Green Onions,” with its ripping Hammond Organ line were both Neal and Booker T. enjoyed trading licks on their keys. That song threw everyone, of all ages, back into the soundtrack of 1993’s The Sandlot, back riding around in their 1962 Chevy Impala Convertible with the top down. It is a song that defined the ages and every one of all ages was invested.

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Capping off the night, the trio stood alone on stage for “Tuesday Night Squad,” a nod to the night and perhaps Soulive’s way of naming the dedicated tribe who supported them on such an early weeknight.  The Tuesday Night Squad we became and Bowlive fanatics should hold that badge with honor, the same way Soulive was visibly honored to perform for us last night with such an amazing icon of music.

Last night’s tribute to Stax Records was a pleasure.  Tonight get there on time for another stunner of an opener with the ever-rocking London Souls and guests Marco Benevento (keys) and guitarist David Hidalgo (Los Lobos).

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Set List:
Hip Hug Her
Hang ‘Em High
Born Under A Bad Sign
Crazy
Time is Tight
Something
Everything is A Everything

Encore:
Green Onions
Tuesday Night Squad

Written by Karen Dugan
Tinyrager.com

Photos By Andrew Blackstein & Allison Murphy

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January 2013 Music Calendar

January 2013 NYC Music Calendar

Calendar updated daily!

FESTIVALS

GLOBALFEST: Groundbreaking international music festival and a volunteer run non-profit organization dedicated to foster cultural exchange. globalFEST’s mission is cultural, social and political. It aims to bring down boundaries between countries and create cultural opportunities for individual artists and for governments, sponsors, scholars and critics to collaborate. Tours and cultural exchanges that result from globalFEST¹s showcases have helped to build an ever widening audience for world music and, by extension an increase in international cooperation and collaboration.

30th Next Wave Festival: returning for its 30th season, presenting an array of contemporary performance, artist talks, storytelling, visual art, and film that showcases work by emerging artists and innovative modern masters.

CONCERTS

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

  • ($18-$25) Joseph Arthur & Vernon Reid @ City Winery
  • ($20) Nigel Hall Band (Phish/Mule After-Party) @ The Blue Note
  • ($25) Rusted Root @ Stage 48
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

  • (Free) Brooklyn Shakedown w/ Nutritious @ Bembe (Late Night Set)
  • ($10-$12) New York Funk Exchange w/ Jane Lee Hooker @ Mercury Lounge
  • ($20) The Louis Armstrong Centennial Band @ Birdland
  • ($35) “A Love Supreme” Azar Lawrence Quintet featuring Eddie Henderson @ Smoke Jazz & Supper Club-Lounge (7pm, 9pm, 10:30 sets)Sets)
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Thursday, January 3, 2013

  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($22) Howie Day @ City Winery
  • ($35) “A Love Supreme” Azar Lawrence Quintet featuring Eddie Henderson @ Smoke Jazz & Supper Club-Lounge (7pm, 9pm, 10:30 sets)
  • ($40-$70) New York Philharmonic @ Avery Fisher Hall
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Friday, January 4, 2013

  • ($8) Electic Method @ Knitting Factory
  • ($22) Howie Day @ City Winery
  • ($30) John Abercrombie Quartet @ Jazz Standard
  • ($40-$70) New York Philharmonic @ Avery Fisher Hall
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Saturday, January 5, 2013

  • ($8-$10) Ikebe Shakedown @ Cameo Gallery
  • ($20) Maurice Brown @ Ginny’s Supper Club (2 Sets)
  • ($30) John Abercrombie Quartet @ Jazz Standard
  • ($40-$70) New York Philharmonic @ Avery Fisher Hall
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Sunday, January 6, 2013

  • ($20) Earth, Wind & Fire @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill (Celebrating 40 Years)
  • ($25) John Abercrombie Quartet @ Jazz Standard
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • ($40-$75) Chris Botti @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)

Monday, January 7, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($8) “Bowling for Justice”: A Residency with Leroy Justice @ The Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($10) Charlie Hunter @ The Living Room
  • ($10) Alecia Chakour Band: First Mondays @ Rockwood Music Hall
    • Join Alecia Chakour, Neal Evans, Sam Cohen, Alex Chakour, Miles Arntzen, Cochemea Gastelum and friends on the first Monday of every month at Rockwood Music Hall for their unique take on rock n’ soul…
  • ($18-$22) Diane Birch @ City Winery
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

  • ($15) The London Souls @ The Bowery Ballroom
  • ($18-$22) Diane Birch @ City Winery
  • ($20-$35) Donald Harrison, Ron Carter & Billy Cobham Trio @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($30-$35) Johnny Winter – The 3rd Annual Winter in Winter Residency @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($40-$60) Nas with Anthony Decurtis @ Kaufmann Concert Hall, 92 Street Y

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

  • (Free) Brooklyn Shakedown w/ Nutritious @ Bembe (Late Night Set)
  • ($20-$35) Donald Harrison, Ron Carter & Billy Cobham Trio @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($25) Robert Glasper and Friends @ S.O.B.’s
  • ($25) Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio @ Jazz Standard (2 sets)
  • ($25-$30) Shuggie Otis, People Get Ready, Ofei, Joshua Nelson, & DJ Kool Herc @ Highline Ballroom

Thursday, January 10, 2013

  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night DJ set)
  • ($10) Jamie McLean Band @ Rockwood Music Hall (10:15pm slot)
  • ($10-$13) Adam Ezra Group @ Mercury Lounge
  • ($20-$35) Donald Harrison, Ron Carter & Billy Cobham Trio @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($25) Robert Glasper & Friends @ SOB’s

Friday, January 11, 2013(Biggest Musical Day of the Month)

  • (FREE) Zongo Junction @ Rockwood Music Hall (11:45pm slot)
  • ($7) Klezwoods @ Spike Hill
  • ($10) Spanglish Fly @ NuBlu
  • ($10-$13) Apollo Run w/ Midnight Spin @ Mercury Lounge
  • ($15) Slick Rick: The Ruler @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($15-$18) Snarky Puppy @ Rockwood Music Hall (10pm slot)
  • ($15-$20) APAP Showcase w/ The Iguanas, Mia Borders, Colin Lake & Sasha Masakowski @ Hill Country
  • ($20-$25) Big Sam’s Funky Nation, The Stooges Brass Band, Mia Borders, Christian Scott Sextet & Flow Tribe @ The Cutting Room
  • ($20-$35) Donald Harrison, Ron Carter & Billy Cobham Trio @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($25-$30) Alan Doyle (of Great Big Sea), The Dunwells, & Amy Helm @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($30) Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio @ Jazz Standard
  • ($35) Marcus Strickland & TWI-LIFE @ Sullivan Hall (2013 NYC Winter Jazzfest)
  • ($35-$70) INDELIBLE FESTIVAL: Meshell Ndegeocello presents Spirit Music Jamia @ @ Highline Ballroom
    • Featuring: Cecil Taylor, DJ Questlove, AYO, Guy Davis, Gregoire Maret, THE DUST RAYS featuring Kirk Douglas & Mark Kelley of the Roots & Ricc Sheridan from Earl Greyhound & Surprise Special Guests
  • ($40-$50) Betty LaVette @ City Winery
  • ($50-$55) CAKE @ Bowery Ballroom
  • ($50-$90) Morrissey @ Brooklyn Academy of Music
  • ($60) David Murray Big Band featuring Macy Gray @ The Iridium

Saturday, January 12, 2013

  • ($10) Stooges Brass Band @ Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($20) Arturo O’Farrill Trio @ Ginny’s Supper Club
  • ($20-$35) Ramsey Lewis & John Pizzarelli @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($30) Dr. Lonnie Smith “In The Beginning” Octet @ Jazz Standard
  • ($30-$40) Paula Cole, Kris Allen, Brother Joscephus and the Love Revolution, Teitur, Leroy Bell and his Only Friends @ City Winery
  • ($40) Bettye LaVette @ Joe’s Pub
  • ($45-$75) Roberta Flack @ St. George Theatre
  • ($60) David Murray Big Band featuring Macy Gray @ The Iridium
  • ($68-$92) Def Squad and Method Man @ Hammerstein Ballroom

Sunday, January 13, 2013

  • ($10) Reggie Watts @ Grasslands Gallery, BK
  • ($20) Gregg Kallor Hurricane Sandy Relief Concert w/ Dave Eggar @ Culture Project
  • ($20-$35) Ramsey Lewis & John Pizzarelli @ The Blue Note (2 Sets)
  • ($25) The David Johansen Band @ Highline Ballroom
  • ($26-$64) Green Day @ Barclays Center
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($30) Dr. Lonnie Smith “In The Beginning” Octet @ Jazz Standard (2 sets)
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • ($40) The Stooges Brass Band at globalFEST @ Webster Hall
  • ($45) Cassandra Wilson @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($50-$200) Idina Menzel @ Carnegie Hall
  • ($60) David Murray Big Band featuring Macy Gray @ The Iridium

Monday, January 14, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($8) “Bowling for Justice”: A Residency with Leroy Justice @ The Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($20) Jonathan Batiste @ Rockwood Music Hall
  • ($20-$40) International Guitar Night @ The Blue Note (1 Set)
    • feat. Martin Taylor (Scotland), Brian Gore (US), Solorazaf (Madagascar)
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($30) Terence Blanchard Quintet @ Birdland

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

  • ($20-$40) John and Hank Green: An Evening of Awesome w/ The Mountain Goats @ Carnegie Hall
  • ($30-$35) Johnny Winter – The 3rd Annual Winter in Winter Residency @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($30-$35) The Airborne Toxic Event @ Webster Hall
  • ($35-$55) Little Feat / Leon Russell @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
  • ($40) Terence Blanchard Quintet @ Birdland
  • ($46-$85) Lynyrd Skynyrd @ Beacon Theatre

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

  • (Free) Brooklyn Shakedown w/ Nutritious @ Bembe (Late Night Set)
  • ($15-$20) Soundgarden @ Terminal 5
  • ($20-$25) Bob Schneider @ City Winery
  • ($20-$80) Meshell Ndegeocello @ BAM in Brooklyn, NY (Part of 30th Next Wave Festival)
    • When Past & Future Collide ~ Life Along the Borderline: A Tribute to Nico, Curated by John Cale
  • ($30-$35) Billy Cobham’s “Spectrum 40″ @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($30-$35) The Airborne Toxic Event @ Webster Hall
  • ($40) Terence Blanchard Quintet @ Birdland
  • ($40-$90) G. Love & Special Sauce @ Irving Plaza

Thursday, January 17, 2013

  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($12) Jeff Bujak @ Sullivan Hall
  • ($36-$40) Lalah Hathaway @ B. B. Kings Blues Club

Friday, January 18, 2013

  • ($25) Toshi Reagon and BIGLovely @ Joe’s Pub
  • ($30-$40) Alejandro Escovedo with The Mastersons @ City Winery
  • ($30-$65) Umphrey’s McGee @ Beacon Theater
  • ($36) Guster & Yellowbirds @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
  • ($40) Terence Blanchard Quintet @ Birdland

Saturday, January 19, 2013

  • ($10) Driftwood @ Rockwood Music Hall
  • ($15) John Brown’s Body @ Maxwell’s Hoboken, NJ
  • ($20) Cracker & Camper Van Beethoven @ Stage 48
  • ($25) Toshi Reagon and BIGLovely @ Joe’s Pub
  • ($30-$40) Alejandro Escovedo with The Mastersons @ City Winery
  • ($40) Terence Blanchard Quintet @ Birdland
  • ($50) Morrissey @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY

Sunday, January 20, 2013

  • ($20) Talib Kweli @ S.O.B.’s
  • ($25) Toshi Reagon: Sacred Music Show w/ Bernice Johnson Reagon @ Joe’s Pub
  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($30-$55) Béla Fleck BANJO SUMMIT @ Michael Schimmel Center for the Arts
    • Banjo mastermind, Béla Fleck will be joined by Tony Trischka, Bill Keith, Richie Stearns, Eric Weissberg, and Noam Pikelny.
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
  • (???) Juan Maclean DJ Set @ Le Bain at The Standard

Monday, January 21, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($8) “Bowling for Justice”: A Residency with Leroy Justice @ The Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($30) Tim Reynolds of the Dave Matthews Band @ Iridium Jazz Club
  • ($35) Living Colour @ Highline Ballroom (For The Million Man Mosh II)

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

  • ($10) Zen Tricksters @ The Brooklyn Bowl
    • Special Guest: Rob Barraco (Phil Lesh & Friends, The Dead, Dark Star Orchestra) & Keith Kenny
  • ($30-$35) Johnny Winter – The 3rd Annual Winter in Winter Residency @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($65-$76) Soundgarden @ Hammerstein Ballroom

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

  • (Free) Brooklyn Shakedown w/ Nutritious @ Bembe (Late Night Set)
  • ($20) The Louis Armstrong Centennial Band @ Birdland NYC
  • ($30-$35) Papa Roach @ Terminal 5
  • ($40) Trey Anastatio Band @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
  • ($66-$80) Soundgarden @ Hammerstein Ballroom

Thursday, January 24, 2013

  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($15) FLOODWOOD (feat. Al Schnier & Vinnie Amico of moe.) @ Rockwood Music Hall (9pm slot)
  • ($15) The Wailers (performing Survival & more) @ The Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($25-$45) Dirt Farmer Band featuring Larry Campbell, Amy Helm, Byron Isaacs, Justin Guip and Teresa Williams @ City Winery
  • ($40) Trey Anastatio Band @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
  • ($42.50) Austra @ Hammerstein

Friday, January 25, 2013

  • ($5) Austra (DJ Set) @ Glasslands Gallery
  • ($10) #1 Kid (feat. members of Rubblebucket) @ Rockwood Music Hall ~ Stage 2 (11pm Slot)
  • ($15-$20) Ryan Montbleau Band @ City Winery
  • ($25-$30) Sister Hazel @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($30-$42) Robert Earl Keen @ Irving Plaza powered by Klipsch
  • ($42.50) Austra @ Hammerstein

Saturday, January 26, 2013

  • ($10-$12) The Nigel Hall Band @ Sullivan Hall
  • ($15) Marion LoGuidice @ Joe’s Pub
  • ($15-$20) Ryan Montbleau Band @ City Winery
  • ($25-$30) Lotus w/ Moon Hooch @ Best Buy Theatre
  • ($30-$35)  Femi Kuti & Positive Force @ Webster Hall
  • ($42-$46)  Loudon Wainwright III @ Zankel Hall
  • ($50-$90) Pat Benatar @ The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY

Sunday, January 27, 2013

  • ($30) Arturo O’Farrill Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Birdland NYC
  • ($40) Harlem Gospel Choir Brunch @ B.B. King Blues Club and Grill

Monday, January 28, 2013

  • ($8) Jim Campilongo @ The Living Room
  • ($8) “Bowling for Justice”: A Residency with Leroy Justice @ The Brooklyn Bowl
  • ($22.50) Reel Big Fish @ Irving Plaza
  • ($25) “Mingus Mondays” w/ Mingus Orchestra @ The Jazz Standard
  • ($30) Johnny Winter – 3rd Annual residency @ B. B. Kings Blues Club
  • ($35-$50) Robert Earl Keen @ City Winery
  • ($40-$75) Tegan and Sara @ The Beacon Theater (SOLD OUT)

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

  • ($20) Alice Smith (Residency Week One) @ Rockwood Music Hall ~ Stage 2
  • ($40-$45) Ladysmith Black Mambazo @ Highline Ballroom
  • ($40-$75) Tegan and Sara @ Beacon Theatre
  • ($50-$63) An Evening of the Blues Feat. Ben Harper & Charlie Musselwhite @ Irving Plaza

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

  • (Free) Brooklyn Shakedown w/ Nutritious @ Bembe (Late Night Set)

Thursday, January 31, 2013

  • ($5-$8) DJ ?uestlove Presents Bowl Train @ Brooklyn Bowl (late night set)
  • ($25-$30) Gin Blossoms @ B. B. Kings Blues Club

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As my fifth New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival gets closer, the anticipation gets stronger. This year is a little different- I have two friends coming to Jazz Fest on my say so, so I’m a little stressed, wanting to make sure they tell me what they want to hear, making sure they love it as much as I do. So in prepping for my favorite week of the year, here are some things you don’t want to miss:

At the fairgrounds:

Thursday, May 3rd

High School Gospel Choirs: I like to open my fest with the McMain Singing Mustangs – every year, these kids bring some serious firepower to the Gospel Tent.  McDonogh #35 High School also does some incredible stuff later in the afternoon.

New Orleans Music Legends: Bassist George Porter Jr. has probably played on your favorite album, whether with Tori Amos, David Byrne, being the bass line sampled for tons of hip hop classics, or with his own groundbreaking work with the legendary Meters. Do yourself a favor and see him. While you’re at it, check out piano virtuoso Henry Butler, and the boys and girl in Dumpstaphunk. All of em will make you wish you lived here and saw em more often.

Home Grown Up and Comers: I saw Mia Borders in a tiny club with a leaky roof on the lower east side last year and she was amazing. Probably got an awesome band with her, including NOLA saxman Khris Royal (who’s probably with George too), and her cover of Bill Wither‘s “Use Me” was just bananas last year.

2012 Fantasy Map

2012 Fantasy Map

Friday, May 4th

The One Woman Army, now with backup: Theresa Andersson is a tremendous singer, fiddle player, and all around musician. This year, she’s got a great krewe of musicians with her, including Hannah Krieger-Benson, a fantastic trumpet player and singer who’s doing her own stuff (Hannah KB Band) and some ska too (The Local Skank)

Pick your own Jazz Adventure:  Three amazing jazz sets happening right after Theresa, at the same time. I have no idea how I’ll do all three.  Big Chief Donald Harrison will be mixing his bebop and modern jazz skills with R&B and NOLA classics, ala the amazing cover of “Indian Red” he did for the Treme Season One Soundtrack.  Or, you can get your fill of low end saxophonics, with Roger Lewis (Dirty Dozen Brass Band) leading three Bari Saxes and a Bass Sax for Baritone Bliss (which was fantastic last year).  Or, you can see Preservation Hall trumpet man Mark Braud do his own thing in the Economy Hall tent.

Holy People: Bet on Mavis Staples, who was already among the top reasons we went with this weekend, to put on a ridiculous set at the gospel tent in honor of her friend (and ours), the late great Levon Helm.  I’m sure her set is going to be so great, I’ll probably miss Deacon John‘s killer cover of “Many Rivers to Cross” to get a spot. However, if I were you, I wouldn’t miss much else of his set.  Local music legend, a fantastic performer, a great singer, a helluva guitar player, just amazing stuff, see Deacon John.

Mahalia Jackson - Historic Jazz Fest Picture

Mahalia Jackson – Historic Jazz Fest Picture

Saturday May 5th

Family Preservation: Loads of famous families in the New Orleans tradition – on Saturday, the Brunious family represents in Economy Hall. A few hours before Mark Braud (nephew to the late John Brunious) takes the stage (and hopefully passes out some ice cream) with the
Preservation Hall Jazz Band, his other uncle (and brother to John) Wendell Brunious will step up to the stage- Wendell was on fire at BAM a couple weeks back, sitting in with Dr. John, so look for some tasty trumpet goodness all around.

Raisin’ Hell: Another scion of a famous musical family takes the Fais Do Do stage, Rockin Dopsie and his Zydeco Hellraisers.  I feel like a lot of my favorite Zydeco bands all seemed to be packed into first weekend, but Rockin Dopsie is a notable exception.

Local Greats to Look For: Anders Osborne is a beast on guitar, and his new album is a great mix of sweetness, of sadness, of blues and power.  Not sure who’s playing with them, but see it.  Paul Sanchez’s Rolling Road show is always packed with local stars, Joe Krown with Russell Batiste and Walter “Wolfman” Washington is a tight organ guitar drums trio that does it right. John Boutte‘s voice, which you may recognize from the theme song from Treme, is tremendous to hear in the Jazz Tent – he may spoil us with a great cover of Leonard Cohen‘s “Hallelujah”…if we’re lucky!

The Cafe du Monde stand between the Jazz and Blues tents, around 5:30pm.  Good time to hydrate and get some iced coffee.  Hard to see ending my Preservation Hall second line early, but gonna need to refuel. And what better place to do it? Herbie Hancock and his band in the Jazz Tent on your right, the Warren Haynes Band (with tinyrager.com faves Nigel Hall and Alecia Chakour, as well as Dr. John, playing out) on your left in the Blues Tent.

Jazzfest 1975 Historic Poster

Jazz Fest 1975 Historic Poster

Sunday, May 6th

Sunday is always the most packed day, the closing day of the festival.  Of course, I can tell you to park at Gentilly Stage all day, or don’t miss Galactic, but hopefully you already know.  Here are a few things you might not know about:

The Family that Prays Together: Remember that John Boutte guy from Saturday?  He’s bringin’ his whole family to the gospel tent. You should get there too.

Arieal

Arieal

Glen David Andrews: Cousin to Trombone Shorty and James Andrews, the fire-breathing trombone player’s got an incredible performance you don’t want to miss.  Why he’s not taking his rightful place closing down the Gospel tent is beyond me, but at least it makes the FOMS (Fear of Missing Something) to close the festival a bit easier.

Camping at the Jazz and Heritage Stage: I don’t know the higher heights, but every other group at the Jazz and Heritage stage is a smoker, starting with War Chief Juan, the TBC Brass Band, Los Hombres Calientes will be incredible (why not in the Jazz tent?), and

Big Chief Bo Dollis: It’s not clear if the Big Chief is going to make it, he’s fallen ill, so I expect the boys to rock it out hard for him even if he can’t make it.  Look for Brooklynite turned Orleanian Billy Iuso wrecking shop on guitar (if not here, with Anders on Saturday), he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Close out with the Hall: Okay, so you’ve got 8, count em, 8 amazing sets lined up to end your fest. My pick is Preservation Hall – they’re going to have a lot of friends on stage with them and it’s going to be a lot of fun.  Also, I have no idea why they put Sharon Jones in the Blues Tent when she’s going to want the crowd up and dancing.

The night shows are a whole other animal, coming for part 2…

Words by Guest Writer: Russ Agdern

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