artists

Nothing says a balanced diet quite like eggs, gin, and a whole lotta jam. Jam heads and Phans alike packed into Brooklyn Bowl the weekend before Thanksgiving for a tri-state area hometown throwdown provided by local favorites Eggy and Stolen Gin. Walking into the Bowl, we could smell a blend of earthy notes and hints of patchouli carried mixing with the contagious energy of excitement, community, and intricate musical improvisations. It was neither band’s first performance at the venue this year, but it would most likely be both of their last, so the fans were pumped. 

Walking onstage in their signature red monochrome Western-themed ‘fits at Baby’s All Right, Razor Braids gripped audiences with their electrifying and dynamic performance of soulful rock ballads and infectious indie rock anthems like “Nashville” and “She.” Holly Bynum (bass/lead vocals) and Jilly Karande (rhythm guitar/backing vocals) both showcased heartfelt vocal performances on ballads like “Megachurch,” and Hannah Nichols (drums) and Janie Peacock (lead guitar) both impressed audiences with electrifying solos and punching rhythms throughout the set.

As we walked into The Hall at Elsewhere on November 16th, we immediately noticed a foliage-coated stage at the front of the room. One that, as it turned out, would create the perfect canvas for LEISURE’S wonderful Brooklyn show, a stop on their Leisurevision tour. As our anticipation grew, jungle sounds began reverberating through the venue, and the musicians, who were decked out in turtle necks and bucket hats, took to the stage. 

Celebrating over 30 years of hip-hop, funky fresh, old school hip-hop group, The Pharcyde, brought down the house at Brooklyn Bowl last Thursday, showing NYC how LA gets down. It’s been over 30 years since the group dropped their critically acclaimed debut album, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde, and their 2023 world tour was a continued celebration of the LP, with shows performed by three of the four rappers: Fatlip, Slimkid3, & Imani. From laid-back, jazzy beats to playful lyrics and even freestyle dance, you could tell this was a group of seasoned entertainers ready to tear the roof off.

Moon Taxi was on the New York leg of their “Set Yourself Free” tour, celebrating their 6th studio album, which was released after a remarkable 15-year journey in the music industry. The five-piece group’s latest album by the same name served as the musical backdrop for the evening. The record’s eclectic nature, which is defined by synthy pop vibes to bluegrass and folksy sounds, set the stage for a dynamic and genre-blurring live performance. As the group wove new tracks into the setlist, the live show provided testament to a Moon Taxi sound that stayed consistent even as the genre shifted. 

Thanksgiving came early at Brooklyn Bowl, where Eric Krasno and WhyHunger Amplified teamed up for a specially curated charity benefit concert that made sure no groover was left musically famished. Providing critical resources to support grassroots movements and fuel community solutions, WhyHunger is an incredible non-profit organization working to end hunger and advance human rights to nutritious food in the U.S. and around the world.

Live music experiences are like a journey into another world, and on a chilly fall night in Brooklyn, Coco & Breezy and Thundercat took everyone on a musical ride at Brooklyn Mirage. With their unique blend of styles, these artists offered a night of unforgettable music that left the crowd in awe. Coco + Breezy, the twin DJ and fashion duo, kicked off the evening with a performance that showcased synchronization only twins can pull off. Their opening set was a mesmerizing introduction to what was to come.

Despite the quintessential NYC autumn rain, Bahamas drew a packed house to Brooklyn Bowl last Friday. Afie Jurvanen, the man behind Bahamas, first hit the scene in 2009 with his debut album Pink Strat. Since then, the Canadian musician has released five subsequent albums, hitting nodes of alternative folk, indie rock, and psychedelic soul along the way. His most recent album, BOOTCUT, blends country undertones and acoustic riffs to tell a series of seasoned stories. 

As we made our way to the Sultan Room for the Candle Room’s 6th show, we knew the vibe was going to be great. The room’s unique ambiance, with its circular layout, was perfectly suited for the intimate experience that awaited. There was a strong sense of camaraderie in the room as people mingled as if they were at a house party, engaging in conversations about their journeys to New York City, sharing their reasons for being there. Lately, it’s felt like that “getting to know you” aspect of shows has been missing. It often feels like you’re more apart and alone in a room full of strangers than you should be when, in reality, everyone is there for the same reason – the music.

We were originally introduced to the groovy and touching magic of a live Say She She concert last November, when the groovement caught their set at Brooklyn Made. So last week, less than a year later, there was something satisfying in seeing a gushing crowd packed into Bowery Ballroom to take the mesmerizing live journey through their evolving “disco-delic” indie music. The local Brooklyn band has grown so much in such a short time, culminating in their first headlining show at this iconic venue between stops on their tour across the country. It was also marked by the successful release of the enchanting new album, Silver.

On Friday the 13th at Baby’s All Right, we were graced with the presence of Sudanese artist Gaidaa, an R&B singer whose killer riffs sent chills down our spines. On the heels of her new single release, “Something True,” Gaidaa embarks on her first headline tour – a major milestone for her career. Her breakout hit, “Falling Higher,” was featured on her first album, Overture, where she explores both the thrill of youth and the heartbreak that comes with growing up in songs like “I Like Trouble”, “Stranger” feat. Saba and Jarreau Vandal, and the soulful “Morning Blue.”

High energy pop band, Yam Haus, has been branching out from their home state of Minnesota and touring across the nation. The band includes Lars Pruitt (vocals), Zach Beinlich (guitar), Jake Felstow (drums), and touring bassist Isaac Levy. Yam Haus’ music is meant to feel electric – there’s a natural groove in their songs that easily translates to the body. It’s the soundtrack to the coming-of-age movie that is your life.

Brooklyn-based band, The Thing, is a group so magnetic that with one listen, you’ll be hooked on their rock ‘n’ roll forever. The four-piece band includes Zane Acord (lead singer and bass), Jack Bradley (guitar), Michael Carter (guitar), and Lucas Ebeling (drums). We first talked to the band on the night of the release of their debut album, Here’s The Thing, at their sold-out Baby’s All Right gig. Since our first conversation, The Thing have been on a cross country tour, which continues until the middle of November. 

Blue Note was packed on this particular eve of “Robtoberfest,” Grammy-award-winning Robert Glasper’s month-long residency with the historic jazz club. Jazz aficionados who traveled near and far and waited in hour-long lines eagerly awaited his return to the piano bench. Glasper’s laid-back demeanor set the excited crowd at ease as he and his band wove through tables and got comfortable on stage. Glasper took a moment to scan his setlist, pausing before admitting that, “I never know what I’m going to play until I get the hell here…it’s not me being unprepared, it’s me being in tune.”

Bob Marley was once quoted as saying, “I have a BMW. But only because BMW stands for Bob Marley and The Wailers, and not because I need an expensive car.” As integral as Marley was to reggae music and Rastafari culture, his band, The Wailers, accompanied him as pioneers of the genre which helped to bring visibility to Jamaican music. 42 years on from the passing of the reggae icon, his music and message are still very much alive with this most recent rendition of The Wailers. The group is now led by Aston Barrett Jr., the son of legendary Wailer, Aston ‘Familyman’ Barrett Sr.

With their high energy shows, electric sound and engaging presence, Strawberry Launch is set to become New York City’s next big indie band. The genre bending band consists of five members: Riiza (vocals), Matrianna Gahol (guitar), Abby Flicker (bass), Taylor Hurt (Keys), Benjy Berkowitz (drums.) Through hard work and practice they honed their skills and are now able to experiment with a multitude of sounds from all of the instruments. Their high energy music includes addicting guitar riffs, hypnotizing drum beats and synths, as well as lyrics you’ll be singing for days after.

With his smooth, gospel-inspired vocal harmonies and tight soul and R&B beats, Durand Jones transported Brooklyn Bowl to what felt like a small-town, southern kickback during Mardi Gras on Thursday night. Touring to promote his debut solo LP, Wait Til I Get Over, Jones shares the narrative of his hometown, Hillaryville, Louisiana. In the album, he eloquently details his musical journey and life experiences, shedding light on his upbringing near the bayou in a town initially established as a form of reparations for previously enslaved Black Americans.

Bay Ledges captivated the audience with their high energy, hair flipping, and jamming out. They started the set with “Reintroduction” off their 2020 EP New Daze – a sign that we were going to have a good time. The synthy, groovy waves crashed into calm, creating a perfect balance of energy and serenity. Bay Ledges is the brainchild of songwriter and producer, Zach Hurd. Currently on tour, Bay Ledges is renowned for their ability to blend ethereal melodies with groovy rhythms, creating a unique musical experience.

Grammy-nominated artist, ZHU, brought a celestial spectacle to the Brooklyn Mirage for three days, playing a sold-out show on Friday night. Known for his innovative approach to music and visually captivating performances, ZHU combined electronic beats and jazz rhythms with the help of a surprise appearance from special guest, Trombone Shorty. Zhu is known for pushing the boundaries of electronic music and crafting visually captivating performances and this performance matched all those expectations and more.

When having a conversation with your fellow neighbor, you might hear conventional phonetic phrases like “Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening, And Good Night.”  However, going to see a Neighbor show turns coresident speech into an all out jam fest where bluesy grooves and pure body language dominate the dance floor. This past Friday at Brooklyn Bowl was no different, as the band headlined there for the first time, accompanied by another up and coming psychedelic jam band, Baked Shrimp.

Alternative singer, Tim Atlas, brought down the house with a sold out performance at The Mercury Lounge on September 15th. This show was the second stop on his tour and close to his heart as he has recently resided in Brooklyn. Atlas released his debut album in 2013 and has been making music ever since. His newest release, Le Soir, a six song album that came out in 2023, is also the title of his headline tour. 

New York may be a big city, but it can also feel like a small town. Melt, a powerful indie-soul group composed of NYC natives, will be bringing all the small town feel to the big city this Friday, September 15th, at Brooklyn Steel. The band started in 2017 as a high school project, and has since developed a dynamic sound and amassed an enthusiastic fan base.

Octave Cat took the stage at the Brooklyn Bowl on a late August night, displaying highly developed synthetic precision and good old fashioned percussive sensitivity. The members took the floor: Eli Winderman on the bongos, piano, and mono synthesizer; Jesse Miller on bass and modular synthesizer; and Charlie Patierno drumming away on the ones, twos, threes, fours, and mores. Combining balanced synth tones with bouncing bass lines and a tight backbeat, the stage quickly gave way to a dance floor on a tight run through “The Epicurean.” The masterful Moog solos, the punctuated Prodigy pinpoints, and the sweeping bass set an exploratory, colorful tone for the night.

The Telescreens may be young, but they’re rising on a fast trajectory to stardom. Based out of New York, the four piece band includes Jackson Hamm (vocals and guitar), Austin Brenner (bass), Josiah Valerius (keys and synth), and Oliver Graf (drums). The Telescreens’ sound is classic rock with a twist, made unique by their alternative addition of keys and synth.

As the sun set on a perfect evening in Central Park, grentperez performed a vibey, hour-long set for a joyous crowd. The singer/songwriter’s blend of jazz and indie always evokes a warm feeling and by the end, our cheeks hurt from smiling so much. The band seemed to feel the energy too, dancing along with us at Central Park’s SummerStage. 

Netherlands-based band, Altin Gün, has reached audiences across the world with their psychedelic, disco-laced reinterpretations of traditional Turkish folk songs. We got to see the Turkish-Dutch ensemble bring their signature 1970s psychedelia to Brooklyn Steel, one of many stops on their big North American tour.

Having started out as a couple of college guys playing music at NYU rooftop parties, Stolen Gin has blossomed into one of the buzziest jam bands on the scene. The dance-funk quintet is known for its high-energy live acts and avid improvisation which have cemented them as ones to look out for.

Finish Ticket was formed around 15 years ago when twin brothers Brendan (vocals) and Michael Hoye (guitar) joined forces with Alex DiDonato (guitar) through a shared love of iconic indie bands such as The Killers and The Strokes. The band was quickly completed with the addition of Gabe Stein (drums) and Nick Stein (Keyboards). The Bay Area band’s sound has evolved over time, taking inspiration from their various influences and blending it into a distinctive sound that’s reminiscent of Young the Giant and other classic indie-pop bands. 

Known for their captivating live performances, Sunflower Bean was a perfect fit for the grand opening. The crowd jammed to tracks off their latest album, Handful of Sugar. The live setting gave their sound a garage-rock quality, and their performance had a raw, euphoric edge.

Hailing from Staten Island, Above The Sun are an emerging band with a classic rock sound and lyrics that always paint a story. The band includes Mattew Barouch (vocals and rhythm), Shaun Gold (lead guitar), Omar Chowdhury (bass), and Gary Boardman (drums). Their sound is rooted in classic rock, but with a modern twist.

On July 7th, the iconic Webster Hall pulsated with infectious energy from the night’s headliner: Nurko. As groovers filled the main ballroom, excitement permeated the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance.

Often referred to as your favorite band’s favorite band, Sparks has been electrifying crowds around the world since the early 1970s. Last month, we got to see them put on a truly legendary show at the iconic Beacon Theater. With a discography dating back over fifty years and a setlist from over fifteen projects, there truly was something for everyone.

If a Hedonist is a person who believes that the pursuit of pleasure is the most important thing in life, then Hedonistas are a funky, jam-powered collective of pleasure-providers who bring an energetic atmosphere that gets audiences moving and grooving from the first note. This group of lifelong friends includes keyboardist and vocalist Jake Keeble, guitarists Max Blount and Peter Brazeal, keyboardist and bassist Hunter Tredway, and drummer Sawyer Drummond. Together they’ve been rocking out for almost 10 years.

The Nashville-based indie group, Post Sex Nachos, are as polished as seasoned musical veterans, but have a distinct youthful vibe. Their sound is intermixed with hints of pop, rock, and funk. Listening to their music is like taking a journey through your youth and picking up different meanings and messages through each song along the way.

The park was hot and the vibe was high as the sun set and the beat conductor warmed up. As Knxwledge took to the sticks in the cockpit of his DJ booth, the anticipation was high within the crowd, everyone eager for takeoff. A worthy pilot, the producer was calm, cool, and collected, and clearly ready to take us up to cruising altitude atop the giant lightboard where his station rested.

What happens when you combine the essence of improvisation, syncopated rhythmic accents, and a blend of funk, rock, and jam music into a jazz performance? The result is the high octane musical powerhouse Soulive, who unleashed a sonic assault on an elated Blue Note Jazz Club audience last week at the Blue Note Jazz Festival.

Hailing from Brooklyn, Sammy Rae and The Friends are no strangers to the NYC music scene. The 7-piece unit has been bringing its rock-meets-jazz-meets-neo-soul sound to some of NYC’s most iconic venues for the last five years, and we got to groove with them at a spirited SummerStage show last Thursday.

Shrouded by a colorful, 70’s-style set-up, Austin-based indie trop-pop duo, Summer Salt, gave a truly vibey performance last Thursday at Brooklyn Bowl. Drummer Eugene Chung kicked it off with Tortilla Soup from the band’s latest album, Campanita. His high-energy drum intro was met with their classic sunny guitar and Mattew Terry’s airy vocals.

To listen to 79.5 is to dial in to the sound of the city. The band, named after a fictional radio station, was founded by Kate Mattison over a decade ago. It’s taken many forms since its inception, but the most recent lineup includes vocalist and keyboardist Kate Mattison, vocalist  and rapper Lola Adanna, bassist Andrew Raposo, drummer Caito Sanchez and multi-instrumentalist Izaak Mills on the saxophone and flute. 

It’s more than likely that you’ve heard Chuck Strangers’ beats on some of your favorite tracks from the last decade. He has an impressive production portfolio that has earned him credits on projects such as Joey Bada$$’s 1999. Arguably one of the greatest mixtapes of all time, 1999 was an album that propelled Joey Bada$$’s career and earned him platinum certifications.

“It was a clear black night, a clear white moon” as Brooklyn was hungry for some “fish and grits and all that pimp shit.” The seven-time Grammy award-winning ATL rap legend, Big Boi (also known as Daddy Fat Sacks, General Patton, Hot Tub Tony Francis, Sir Lucious L. Leftfoot, Chico Dusty and more), was ready to chef up some dirty dirty for an ecstatic Brooklyn Bowl crowd.

Known for his socially conscious lyrics and progressive beliefs, Citizen Cope’s music represents that same emotion evoked from the 1960s peaceful protest era of equality and justice for all. Cope was born in Memphis but grew up around the pseudo-democratic streets of Washington D.C. where he experienced American grassroots political movements and government backlash firsthand. For many people who attended his birthday show at Brooklyn Made, singing along with Citizen Cope’s songs meant a different type of freedom.

A warm, clear Brooklyn night welcomed Will Westerman back to the Music Hall of Williamsburg, the 12th stop on an ambitious 20-city US tour. After three years outside of the US, the impassioned singer/songwriter was bubbling to share what he had been working on. Two full length albums, a bag full of successful singles, and countless hours of thoughtful, deliberate songwriting lay in wait, ready to be unleashed upon an eager New York crowd.

Almost 10 years ago, The Front Bottoms released their sophomore album Talon of the Hawk, a collection of 12 tracks chronicling the limbo between adolescence and adulthood, the tumultuous ride of young love, the sobering weight of maturing, and the profound revelations that arise when revisiting childhood through a newfound lens of understanding.

New moe., who dis? moe. returned to their beloved concrete jungle last Thursday to start their three night run at Brooklyn Bowl with a reincarnated Chuck Garvey on guitar and invigorated new band member, Nate Wilson, on keys. Characterized as a preeminent jam rock band, moe. originates from Buffalo, New York, and is known for conquering the soundscape of multiple genres including progressive, neo-psychedelia, alternative, funk, rock, and more.

Kitchen Dwellers is a talented bluegrass band that has been making waves in the music scene with their unique blend of traditional bluegrass and modern influences. One of the most striking aspects of Kitchen Dwellers’ music is the technical proficiency of each member: Joe Funk on bass, Shawn Swain on mandolin, Torrin Daniels on banjo, and Max Davies on guitar. The group forges a sound that is both traditional and innovative, combining classic bluegrass instrumentation with contemporary songwriting and experimental arrangements. 

As summer approaches, it’s hard to think of a more fitting band than Saint Motel to lead the groovement into the season.

The captivating quartet has crafted a unique sound that effortlessly blends their sun-drenched pop with a vibrant ska influence, characterized by intricate horn arrangements, synthesizers, and electronic elements that make for a mesmerizing sonic experience.

They say that the best way to appreciate music and art is through a deep breath. Breathe-in, breathe-out, and get lit. The Easy Star All-Stars are no strangers to this concept as they turned Sony Hall into a 420 fiesta through bass heavy reggae riffs, sing-along covers, and good vibes making for a high time. The band, led by Michael Goldwasser (guitar and percussion) encompasses a large ensemble of talented reggae musicians including multiple guitar players, a horn section (trombone and saxophone), male and female vocalists, drummer, and bassist. Their music is characterized by reggae-fueled classic rock covers, deep bass lines, syncopated rhythms, and upbeat melodies that inspire movement and dance. With support from Sister Carol and NYC’s Cannabis Cup Band, the crowd was all in for a real rocksteady ganja celebration.

The musical synergy Alexander Beggins and Kelsey Wilson find in delicately sung poetry and warm ukulele has drawn people to Wild Child’s music since the release of their debut album, Pillow Talk in 2011. The lyrics can be bittersweet, sometimes sad, but they hold you in their wholeness and in the tender melodies, so you kind of smile anyway. Live, the Austin-based duo is known to invite rooms full of strangers into those vulnerable places their music is made from, and it feels like home. 

The psychedelic funk jam quartet that is Pigeons Playing Ping Pong came together in 2007 and released their debut album, Funk E P, in 2010. The band–Greg Ormont (vocals, guitar), Jeremy Schon (guitar, vocals), Ben (bass, vocals), and Alex Petropulos (drums, vocals)–has since gone on to release a total of six studio albums including their most recent project, Perspective (2022). With over fifteen years of experience under their belts and more than two-thousand shows played across the United States, they have amassed a cult-like following known as “The Flock.” At each show, their loyal fanbase ecstatically engages in the journey of musical exploration that is built into each setlist. 

Back at one of our favorite rooms and dance floors in all of NYC, The Hall at Elsewhere, LF System brought the vibes to a sold out debut show in Brooklyn to close out their US tour. The Scottish duo–Conor Larkman and Sean Finnigan–shared The Hall with 4AM NYC, while OSSX and BASSBEAR!! held it down in Zone One and Motel Club lifted up The Loft.
The captivating quartet has crafted a unique sound that effortlessly blends their sun-drenched pop with a vibrant ska influence, characterized by intricate horn arrangements, synthesizers, and electronic elements that make for a mesmerizing sonic experience.

The crowd bobbed like sea anemones. It was a sold-out show, the last of the psychedelic rock band Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s four-day stint at Webster Hall. The band mixed classic hits with their latest discography, including tracks from their 2023 album, V.

With only four singles under their belt, Brooklyn-based band, The Thing, already sold out Baby’s All Right for their Here’s The Thing album release party.

Will Joseph Cook has a unique ability to connect with an American audience, despite growing up across the pond in Kent, England. His latest tour, opening for 23 of Tessa Violet’s North American shows, had Will playing at some of the most notable venues across the states

Nothing More’s musical style is characterized by their heavy use of rhythmic instrumentation, unconventional song structures, and lead singer Jonny Hawkins’ powerful vocals, which often incorporate spoken word and screams.

What do you get when you mix Americana, pop ethos, and no-frills garage rock? Hammydown. When we sat down with Abbie Morin, lead singer and guitarist for Hammydown, who told us that they want to create an inclusive environment through their music that does not pigeonhole the band or the fans into a neatly siloed genre.

Anna of the North is a musical project headed by Norwegian indie-pop star Anna Lotterud. Released last year, her latest album, Crazy Life, shows a true evolution of the dream-pop sound she’s known for and features more in depth songwriting, luscious soundscapes, and a bright and cheery demeanor.

After touring the country on their first headline tour as Cafuné, the local indie pop duo gave their last performance to a sold-out Bowery Ballroom. And if there was one thing to take away from the night, it was this: after a whirlwind of a TikTok viral song and selling out venues across the country, this show was a homecoming.

Rory D’Lasnow is an up and coming musician whose work is undeniably informed by his knowledge of the mental health industry. His introspective and evocative songwriting is driven by a desire to create music that resonates with listeners who may be facing similar challenges, hoping to offer them a sense of connection and support.

The Nashville-based rock band, The Criticals, were proudly standing on stage in the middle of their sound check. They stood out in front of the mid-century modern pattern on the stage’s back wall while patiently embracing the process. The band includes Parker Forbes (lead vocals), Cole Shugart (lead guitar), J. Rudolfo Rosas (rhythm guitar), David Michael Meadows (bass guitar), and Tyelen Gibbs (drums).

What happens when you combine a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde element to songwriting with Miami Beach poolside lounge-vibes, and contrast that with eerie dark-synth notes and tones (*queue Ross Bogan*)? The product is Doom Flamingo, a jammin’ sextet that hails from Charleston, South Carolina.

After a cold, rainy Saturday, Rubblebucket brought its unique psychedelic rock sound to Brooklyn Steel. The almost two-hour long set was a multimodal compilation of visual and performance art.

From nostalgic anger to unapologetic moshing and stage diving to feelings of non-conformist social acceptance, a Microwave concert is more than just a show. It’s a sanctuary of camaraderie and belonging where all are welcome to express their individuality and rock the fuck out.

When we spoke to The Rural Alberta Advantage before their show at Bowery Ballroom, they said their biggest hope was for the crowd to leave feeling “emotional, whether it’s their first show or not.” And while it was the groovement’s first time seeing them, it certainly won’t be our last.

On Sunday, March 16, we sat down for a treat: an incredible trio at the legendary Greenwich Village jazz club, Blue Note. The sold out show was full with eclectic groovers–from solo rockers, to lovers, to families, to Eric Krasno’s own mother.  

New York turned into New Orleans as The Soul Rebels brought the funk to Brooklyn Bowl the first night of their weekend-long residency. 

Touring to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut album, The Listening, Little Brother brought hip-hop heads of all ages together for their long-awaited show at Brooklyn Bowl. Kooley High and Brooklyn-native, Skyzoo, set the vibes for the night with their energetic opening performances.

When it comes to the ongoing evolution of the Denver-based live electronic music duo, Break Science has remained at the creative forefront for over a decade.  Fast forward to 2023, Break Science is now back after some prolonged downtime with upcoming tour dates and Mecha Flora–their newest EP released back in February.

When Alt-J put out their album, An Awesome Wave, 10 years ago, they were unsure how American audiences would react to their experimental psychedelic rock sound. But, fast forward a decade, and they are doing a tour celebrating the anniversary of the same album, commencing with two sold out nights at the legendary Kings Theatre in Brooklyn.

Paolo Nutini graced New York with his presence at Brooklyn Steel, New York’s most premier concert venue built out of an abandoned steel mill. Needless to say, the show was pretty metal.

VINCINT is back, and he’s ushering in a new, joy-filled era. In 2021, Vincint Cannady, known as VINCINT, released his debut album, There Will Be Tears. After a year-long hiatus, the singer-songwriter is finally ready to grace the world with new music, and we got to groove along with him as he catalyzed the start of an exciting year.

Snow and salt ridden streets guided the path as an eclectic group of music lovers made their way through East Williamsburg to Brooklyn Steel. For the crowd–young and old, dressed in black to rainbow–the cold air would only be a temporary vibe as everyone entered the beloved Brooklyn venue. 

Hailing from Drogheda, a small town in Ireland, the four-piece indie-pop/rock band, modernlove., recently embarked on their first cross-country headline tour. The foursome kicked things off in New York–selling out Mercury Lounge–with stops along the east and west coasts and a visit to SXSW in between

The men of Moon Taxi have a familiarity–onstage and backstage–that’s the result of knowing each other very, very well. The Nashville-based band, consisting of vocalist/guitarist Trevor Terndrup, lead guitarist Spencer Thomson, bassist Tommy Putnam, keyboardist Wes Bailey, and drummer Tyler Ritter, play songs that hit on your dopamine receptors.

Since the groovement last caught up with Quarters of Change back in July, the band released its first full-length album, Into the Rift, and embarked on its first headlining tour. The album, featuring standout singles “Blue Copper”, “Ms. Dramatic,” and “T Love”, is a further refinement of the Quarters of Change sound fans know and love, plus an extra touch of production magic.

Stand out was Northern Lights, released last year on an EP of the same name. During an emotional performance, lights projected onto the back of the Bowery Ballroom stage, replicating the aurora borealis.  

Fans sang along to Ballerina, which hit streaming platforms only a few weeks earlier, but went crazy listening to Dandelion and Grenadine, two of the band’s most popular tracks.

Riz La Vie is an up and coming artist fusing indie and rap while combining different sounds without borders or labels. He released his last album, Haven, on February 9th, the same day his tour kicked off.  New York City was the ninth stop on his North American tour and holds a special place in Riz La Vie’s heart, as this is the place he called home for many years. 

Playing at Greenwich Village institution Blue Note Jazz Club for the first time, the American jam band, Galactic, brought their traditional blend of New Orleans funk to New York City as part of a five night residency to kick off the new year.

What if “Something” was a disco song? What if Phish performed “Lovely Rita?” What if The Beatles were influenced by funk music? All of these questions and more were answered by the Long Island-based group, Walrus, at their Beatles Valentine’s Day show at Brooklyn Made last Saturday.

Part of the magic of Arlie’s music is their ability to pair incredibly vulnerable songwriting with catchy melodies, creating songs that reveal themselves in layers. This follows into their live performances, where the crowd gets lost in lyrics from some of their most popular tracks, like “Big Fat Mouth.”

With only three released singles, Billy Tibbals is charting his path in the rock ‘n’ roll scene. Originally hailing from London, Billy moved to Hollywood in 2014, a place that shaped his perspective and sound. Since graduating from high school during the pandemic, Billy refined his craft, composing music in his parents’ garage and combining his love of rock and melodic pop.

This past November, we went to a sold-out Bowery Ballroom show headlining Manchester rock band, Courteeners. It was an electric, memorable evening kicked off by their opening act: a local up-and-coming rock band called The Backfires. The group caught the whole crowd’s attention that night. Since they wrapped up supporting Courteeners for their East Coast tour dates, The Backfires have been busy selling out a show in London, recording new music, and gearing up for their next NYC concert coming up at Baby’s All Right on February 22nd.

15 years ago, Michael Fitzpatrick (Fitz) founded ‘Fitz and the Tantrums,’ and in the years since, they’ve remained not only relevant, but unavoidable–with regular viral radio hits, TV spots, and features on soundtracks. In his conversation with the groovement, Fitz revealed how the band contributes this success to being his own ‘harshest critic,’ remaining unwaveringly and intensely analytical of his own music.

Me + Nobody are a band in their infancy, having only assembled less than one year ago. The hype surrounding this band is tangible, and they’re receiving early recognition through Spotify playlist placements and buzz on multiple popular music blogs. Their limited experience certainly didn’t hold them back, as the quartet seemed poised and ready to deliver a memorable performance.

On the fourth and final night of their residency at The Broadway in Brooklyn, Tea Eater brought the house down with an electric set that certainly turned some heads. This was our first time catching Tea Eater live, and it definitely won’t be our last.

Brother Moses is an indie rock band who wants to make music that people put on when they’re driving in their cars. At least, that’s what the group’s lead singer and guitarist, James Lockhart, told us before their show at Baby’s All Right last week. After the recent release of their latest EP, Apocalypse Football, and on the brink of the upcoming album to follow, Brother Moses kicked off their series of three east coast shows at the Williamsburg venue.

Specialists brought their unique blend of funk and dance-rock to Brooklyn Made last Friday night, following strong opening performances by Will Leet and Bentley Robles. Perhaps the most noticeable aspect of Specialists’ sound is their distinct lack of one single lead vocalist. Instead, the group is bolstered by two equally strong singers in co-founders Mikey Rotunno (bass) and Will Harden (guitar), who took turns leading the crowd through their cleverly written songs.

There are few artists who allow an audience to truly transcend time and space to experience new cultures from the ends of the earth. Experiencing Karavan Sarai is like entering a spiritual expedition by traveling through soundscapes of the Silk Road from Arabia to India and the Balkans to Persia.

Since its inception almost two decades ago ago, the electronic-rock fusion duo, BoomBox, has blossomed into a mainstay of the jam music scene. With a couple personnel alterations along the way, the most recent iteration of BoomBox consists of lead vocalist/guitarist and founding member, Zion Rock Godchaux, and DJ/Producer, Kinsman MacKay. The two are self-described as “brothers from the same mother.”

Guitarist Matt and drummer Mark are two funky bros–literally. The Hills hail from Lawrence, Kansas and have been making music together as the electro funk duo, the Floozies, since 2008. From making songs using a loop station and playing in their parents’ basement to going on sold out cross-country tours, playing some of the biggest festivals, and playing their dream venues, the Floozies’ success is evident in their commitment to bringing fresh, groovy vibes to every single show, without a set list. Mix one part funk with another part electronica, then add some jam, jazz, dub, a talk box, and some (epic) lasers, and you get a live music party that you never want to leave.

To call the three shows that Moon Kissed hosted in December at Baby’s All Right a ‘residency’ would be a complete understatement. Over three weeks, Moon Kissed brought their audience into a new world, inspired in part by Dante’s Inferno, with a series of shows that each embodied ‘Heaven,’ ‘Purgatory,’ and ‘Hell,’ each featuring performance art, suggested attire, and live performances that highlighted the theme. 

On the heels of a fall tour supporting The Lone Bellow, BAILEN played two sold out nights at Union Pool in Williamsburg. The second of the two Wednesday-night December dates, just days before the city emptied for the holidays, was jam-packed with family and friends. The familial essence in the room resembled that of a wedding or bar mitzvah, which is always fitting for a hometown show. 

St. Lucia is happiness personified. Spearheaded by South African multi-instrumentalist Jean-Philip Grobler, the project blends pop, disco, and traditional African music into a sweet, bubbly, and irresistibly danceable cocktail. It’s impossible not to feel the groove, a timeless symphony of silky synths, pulsing drums, and saccharine melodies that resonate deep down in your soul.

Josh Ford and Andrea de Varona of Fake Dad have been together for five years, making music for four years. Their story began when they were both undergraduates at NYU, and a mutual friend invited Josh to one of Andrea’s parties. Eventually, they moved in together to that same apartment. They had already been making music independently, with Josh focusing on what he describes as ’2010-indie-sadboi music,’ and Andrea making jazz with an R&B influence (Think Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Amy Winehouse). The two found a connection in their mutual love of 70s and 80s rock music.

When Kid Smoko takes the stage, one thing is clear: both the band and its fans are there to have pure, unadulterated fun. On a chilly December night in Bushwick, there was no exception. Clad in leather pants, trench coats, oversized sports jackets, and everything in between, the five-piece LA-based band brought high energy to the Sultan Room from the jump.

Music brings us to our feet literally, figuratively, and spiritually. It inspires us to rise up to our day’s trials and tribulations, and on a larger scale, the world’s challenges. Through an unspoken sonic communion between three distinct musical identities, SunSquabi, rouse us from inactivity and into action when we need the extra push through their signature live electronica sound.

PJ LaMariana is a seasoned New York City based guitarist, bassist, singer, and songwriter who stretches the boundaries of multiple musical genres including jam, folk, R&B, indie-groove and more. Growing up in an environment where he was constantly influenced by live music, he redefines what it means to be an experimental artist through his intense energy on stage and musical range.

lespecial provides that in the form of heavy, hard-hitting licks that draw influence from metal and punk rock music. The group has risen to prevalence within the jam scene in large part due to their willingness to offer up mosh-worthy songs that still leave room for free-flowing improvisation.

Music brings us to our feet literally, figuratively, and spiritually. It inspires us to rise up to our day’s trials and tribulations, and on a larger scale, the world’s challenges. Through an unspoken sonic communion between three distinct musical identities, SunSquabi, rouse us from inactivity and into action when we need the extra push through their signature live electronica sound.

You know your friend who’s well-travelled, chic, intelligent, tasteful–basically just hip as fuck? Thievery Corporation is the musical equivalent of that friend. Complete with their signature set-up (an elevated DJ booth perched behind a leather couch) the group took the stage in front of a seated crowd who didn’t stay seated for very long

Listening to TEKE::TEKE’s music is like taking a euphoric, exhilarating, and spontaneous sound journey. From pure psych rock to whimsical flutes to head bobbing percussion and jammy brass, their set will make you understand that old cliché, “it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.”

The Backfires’ sound has noticeable traces of their roots in the London alternative scene. Everyone in the audience felt those early-aughts British rock vibes, regardless of knowing the band’s beginnings.

Blame it on the full moon that illuminated the Brooklyn streets that evening–the energy was elevated from the very beginning. As fans continued to pour in, Kali led the crowd in a soulful catharsis on songs.

This is the (super adorable) story of how three Brooklyn musicians came together to create their band, Say She She. The female-led, seven-piece group describes their genre as “discodelic,” where the singers’ vocals bleed together like watercolors painted on funky, soulful tracks. 

Anders Trentemøller spent September and early October touring North America, before ending with two back-to-back shows at Elsewhere in Brooklyn. He’s been touring for 15 years but recently challenged himself by releasing his longest album yet, Memoria, and taking it on the road.

Late in September–on one of those totally perfect post-summer/pre-fall nights–Neil Frances gave a colorful, groovy show to a full crowd of happy fans on the Elsewhere rooftop.

A self-described huge Kid Cudi fan, Sam defines his music as genre-fluid, with a mix of indie rock, soul, hip-hop and a little taste of R&B. You may recognize Sam from his feature on Kota the friend’s single, “MEMO,” released earlier this year. Born and raised in Queens, you can feel the New York influence on his sound.

The band members hail from Atlanta, Tuscaloosa, Boston, Connecticut and Kentucky, but they all met when they were students at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. After playing house parties and bars, they gathered a sizable local following and gained a reputation for not only the funky and danceable sound, but also the fun energy they brought to each show.

Cherin just began releasing music last year, and are already ones to watch in New York City’s indie scene. They have already built a fan base strong enough to have an incredible crowd at the Chelsea Music Hall show we attended over the summer. Check out their new single, “The Subway,” releasing October 28th!

Saleka Shyamalan is no stranger to performing. Growing up playing classic piano, she spent her childhood performing in recitals, with her piano teacher and an orchestra at Philly’s renowned Kimmel Hall by the age of 10. It was around the same time that Saleka went to her first concert, a Beyoncé show, which was a birthday gift from her parents.

Charlotte Rose Benjamin’s show at the Sultan Room came at this special moment between the spring release of her debut album, Dreamtina, and the band’s upcoming cross-country tour with Langhorne Slim.

Music brings us to our feet literally, figuratively, and spiritually. It inspires us to rise up to our day’s trials and tribulations, and on a larger scale, the world’s challenges. Through an unspoken sonic communion between three distinct musical identities, SunSquabi, rouse us from inactivity and into action when we need the extra push through their signature live electronica sound.

Music wasn’t always the plan for Anees. The 30 year old initially went to law school, but he pivoted and started making music three years ago. Since then, he has dropped multiple hit singles and gained several million followers on social media, and he’s just getting started.

Cobra Man’s vibrant power disco style has built them a cult-like following around the country. Anywhere they go, the seven-piece band led by Andy Harry and Sarah Rayne can find a wild group of fans and put on an electric show. We were fortunate enough to catch up with them before their show at Bowery Ballroom to hear more about rock n’ roll, disco, skating videos, and everything in between.

After being discovered at 19, Rozzi has been featured on countless tours, released multiple full length albums, and has even made music for Me Time. She caught up with us in August just before going on stage at Elsewhere last summer.

Becoming a rock musician was far from Charlene Kaye’s mind during her childhood, given her conservative, christian upbringing. However, after attending several shows, she realized that making music was the path for her. We were incredibly fortunate to sit down with her prior to her release party for Neon God, an EP that has been over a decade in the making.

Rock can still go viral, and Seeing Double is proof of that. They gained a lot of attention in college, posting snippets of their 70s style alt rock from the bathroom of their dorm. We sat down with them to hear more about their experience thus far and plans for the future.

Multi-hyphenate extraordinaire Tanners is the hottie at the bejeweled gates of the Tannerverse, and she’s welcoming everyone in with open arms. The NYC-based popstar, songwriter, producer, and audio engineer grew up around music, taking voice lessons and playing in bands, but didn’t start to record music of her own until her junior year at New York University.

Close your eyes. It’s peak pandemic, and you just got your first stimulus check. Maybe you pay your rent, maybe you put the money in savings, or maybe you even ball out and spend it on a few minutes worth of serotonin in the form of material goods. For NYC rock band Tilden, the only plausible use of their Covid money was to record their debut singles. Priorities! 

It’s hard to describe Razor Braids’ music. They certainly provide a punk energy, but with the emotions of indie and folk rock. Since they began releasing music in 2020, they’ve gained serious traction with their unique style and energy. We had a blast chatting with them before their awe-inspiring set at Elsewhere.

Have you ever been at a show and thought, “ I could really go for a cannoli right now?” We know the answer is probably no, but after you experience a post-gig cannoli at a Michael Incognito concert, you’ll never want to be at a show without the Italian delicacy. We’re not joking, you can find the New Jersey singer-songwriter’s mother at the merch booth after his set, slinging cannoli like you’re on the streets of Sicily.

In 2017, Hannah Merrick and Craig Whittle were waiters in Liverpool. Five years of collaboration later, the duo have released multiple projects and built a serious fanbase in the alternative space. We were lucky to chat with them before their show at Baby’s All Right in July, where they performed their debut album for an American audience for the very first time.

Kota the Friend is one of the most respected artists in the independent hip-hop scene. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he has been releasing music since 2016, and he has grown a massive fan base via his personal lyrics and self-produced beats. We caught up with Kota before his Flight Night show at Sony Hall in July.

Garth. initially gained notoriety with his debut album Human Nature in 2017, followed by a national tour. Five years later, his energy and unique blend of pop, surf rock and funk continues to pack out iconic NYC venues. We sat down with Garth. prior to his show at Rockwood Music Hall this past summer to learn more about his journey.

Since dropping their debut EP in 2010, TOLEDO, has quickly gained notoriety with the emotion and good vibes of their projects that keeps us wanting more. Back in June, we sat down with the Bushwick-based rock duo before they hit the stage at Brooklyn Made to hear more about their extensive musical journey.

Sidney Bird brings southern pop style, but with New York energy. She’s stopping at Chelsea Music Hall on November 5th. We caught up with Bird before she hit the stage at the Turk’s Inn and learned more about her journey through the industry.

We caught alt rockers, Quarters of Change, at the Bowery Ballroom this past July. Since forming in 2017, the four-piece group has released several projects, made a song for the Netflix documentary, Race: Bubba Wallace, and become one of the most recognizable bands in the NYC rock scene.

You can’t put Open Mike Eagle in a box. From his eclectic musical catalog, to his time on TV, to the several podcasts he hosts, Mike has experienced it all over his 15 year career. We caught up with him on Elsewhere’s roof to hear more about all of his endeavors.

We chatted with Wilderado, one of the most exciting groups in alternative rock space, at Brooklyn Made this past summer. The Tulsa, Oklahoma trio has been together since 2016 and began getting serious attention for their self-titled debut album.

Chloe Flower is one of the most well respected pianists in music today. Bursting on the scene in 2011, the LA native has since worked with some of the biggest producers in the world and even performed at the VMAs with Cardi B. We sat down with Chloe to hear more about her career prior to her phenomenal performance at Lincoln Center’s iconic Hearst Plaza.

Since he was young, Fabio Luigi has been cultivating his love for music, dance, and energy. The Brazilian DJ has been slowly building his fanbase, and these days you can catch him playing a wild party in a different country almost every weekend. We caught his electric set at Planet Pride in June.

Oscar Louis’ music represents a beautiful intersection of the eclectic tastes he developed throughout his early life. This includes everything from legends like the Beatles to modern hip-hop stars like Kid Cudi. His unique style has built him a serious following, and we chatted with him back in June to learn more about his rise in the industry.

Abby Jeanne is one of the most adored rockers in New York’s indie scene with her killer voice and incredible vibes. We were lucky to sit down with Abby just before her show at Our Wicked Lady this past summer to hear more about her amazing journey.

Back in 2016, Boyish was formed by two Berklee college of music students for an audition tape. Fast forward six years, and the duo has dropped two full length albums, received national media attention, and amassed millions of online streams. We were lucky to chat with them prior to their show on Elsewhere’s beautiful rooftop this past June.

Back in June, we caught up with one of the most exciting young artists in the indie pop scene, Josh Fudge. At just 19 years old, the Oklahoma City native has already made waves in the industry and dropped his second studio album, Technicolor, earlier this year.

Wet has been a beloved member of the NYC indie pop scene since their formation in 2012. Since then, they have dropped three studio albums and reached the Billboard charts on multiple occasions. We caught their hypnotic set at Webster Hall back in June.

It’s The Knee-Hi’s circus, and we’re all just along for the ride. The fringe-clad, self-proclaimed “troupe of wide-eyed rats” from Chicago incinerated Bushwick’s psychedelic secret garden venue, Rubulad, in an unforgettable set.

City of the Sun is one of the most eclectic musical groups in all of New York City. Incorporating elements of post-rock, jazz, and indie rock. The cinematic nature of their work makes their live shows a surreal experience, and we caught up with them during their three-week stint at the Sultan Room this past May.

Montana-based bluegrass-meets-psychedelia-meets-folk band, Kitchen Dwellers, is cookin’ up something good. The group describes their music as “galaxy grass,” which doesn’t tell you that much, but the vast ambiguity of the term might be as fitting as it gets–it’s hard to put a solid classification on their sound.

Over a whopping 15 years and six albums together, The Shivas have developed a personal and artistic bond. They’ve released six albums together and kept up a rigorous tour schedule that brought them around the world. We chatted with The Shivas before they hit the stage at Mercury Lounge to hear more about their illustrious career.