Railroad Earth is one of America's greatest bands playing today, plain and simple. They sing of our nation's changing landscape and social ills with a commitment reminiscent of Woody Guthrie, while interpolating instrumental timbres that could have been pulled from Celtic or Cajun culture. And as anyone who has caught them live will attest, their concerts are imbued with the fire-in-the-belly passion of straight-ahead, blue collar rock & roll. Then there is the newest album from the New Jersey sextet, which is the most cohesive embodiment of their myriad gifts to date-hence the decision to simply call it Railroad Earth, showcasing nine new selections that draw strength and inspiration from an acknowledgment of our shared past, while also embracing new ideas and celebrating diversity, just like America when she is at her best.
Formed over 10 years ago, Cornmeal has grown from humble beginnings into a nationally recognized live music institution. 10 years together is no simple task these days, especially when the last five have seen the band spending over half the year on the road. Heavily influenced by American roots and folk music, Cornmeal blends lightning fast tempos and impeccable harmonies into an unrivaled live performance that continues to expand upon the five-piece acoustic-electric groups' vast musical repertoire. While steeped in the tradition of the past, Cornmeal continues to forge their own path, pushing the boundaries of bluegrass, Americana and folk for a whole new generation of music lovers. With a rapidly growing fan base and ever-evolving sound, Cornmeal challenges the recipe of the bluegrass sound and live performance.
When it comes to the music of Cabinet, the essential bywords are soul, simplicity, and serious musicianship. In concert, the combination of these qualities invariably yields an experience that is so celebratory and moving that the very word Cabinet takes on a new, vivid meaning for anyone in the audience. An inclusive and engaging energy is the uniting through-line as Cabinet weaves bluegrass, country and folk influences to powerful effect. Tight dynamics punctuate gorgeous, soaring harmonies as down-to-earth rhythm and lyrics give way to dreamy jams that are the musical equivalent of the backroad scenic route. But this impressive result is no accident. Pappy Biondo (banjo, vocals), J.P. Biondo (mandolin, vocals), Mickey Coviello (acoustic guitar, vocals), Dylan Skursky (electric bass, double bass), Todd Kopec (fiddle, vocals), and Jami Novak (drums, percussion), all love and live music. They each have a nuanced approach and possess broad talents in their own rights. But the passionate, affirming, and joyous musical world that they create together is Cabinet.
Featuring 3 members of the Zen Tricksters and special guests, Klyph Black and Rumor Has It is a bluesier, rootsier band. The rabid fan bases of the diverse band members is going to drive interest in this new band. The players have done time with Donna Jean Godchaux's solo band (from the Grateful Dead) as well as being touring members of the J Geils Band and the Rolling Stones (sax player Arno Hecht was the touring sax player for the Rolling Stones' Steel Wheels tour). In addition to Black (who will move to guitar in Rumor Has It), the group will feature Zen Tricksters guitarist Tom Circosta and drummer Dave Diamond, along with bassist Al Buonanno, saxophonist Arno Hecht and guitarist John Sparrow.
Runnin' Pardners is George Porter Jr's own unique long term project. Well respected by audiences and promoters as a quintessential New Orleans band, the five piece touring band continues to receive accolades on the jam band and festival scene. George Porter Jr has assembled some seasoned and talented musicians to join him on this project. Familiar Pardners - Brint Anderson (guitar) and, Michael Lemmler (keyboards) and rising stars on the New Orleans music scene Khris Royal (saxophone) and Terrence Houston (drums). Excited about the future of this band and this CD, George Porter Jr. plans to keep a smile on his face." I feel like I am working towards something that will be remembered."
The New Riders of the Purple Sage received a Lifetime Achievement Award from High Times magazine at their Doobie Awards in September, 2002 and performed a brief set (which included "Loneseome L.A. Cowboy" and "Panama Red" with Peter Rowan) at the festivities at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City. They're back on the road with a revived and inspired lineup, bringing the songs of John Dawson back to the ears of adoring crowds nationwide as well as taking those songs to places they've never been before musically. Led by David Nelson and Buddy Cage, the current touring lineup includes Michael Falzarano (Hot Tuna) on guitar and vocals, Ronnie Penque on bass and vocals and Johnny Markowski (Stir Fried) on drums and vocals.
The Machine, America's top Pink Floyd show, has forged a 20 year reputation of excellence, extending the legacy of Pink Floyd, while creating another legacy all their own. Over the years, The Machine has touched the hearts and souls of many, selling out theaters, large clubs and casinos across North and Central America, Europe and Asia. They have also appeared at renowned music festivals such as Bonnaroo, Riverbend, Gathering of the Vibes, Buffalo's Artpark, and Germany's Rock of Ages. The New York based band focuses on making every show an authentic Floydian experience for their fans. Known for performing a diverse mix of The Floyd's extensive 16-album repertoire (complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems), The Machine's stellar musicianship, dramatic lighting and video, and their passionate delivery sets them above and beyond the rest.
If music were a map, McMule might be found somewhere on the great divide between yesterday and now, driven on roads forged by the music of plain hardworking country people, where the ancient footpaths of the Scots and Irish cross the great Mississippi Delta. One part whiskey, two parts toil, McMule's music resists playing "tag you're it", with assured vocals, proletarian string band backing and a steady groove. McMule performs at major festivals throughout the Northeast, top shelf music venues such as B.B. Kings in NYC and various cultural events.
Known for their extreme passion, eclectic nature, and sharp sense of rock-and-roll history, Wigjam is a unique jam band that has been performing throughout the tri-state area for over a decade. Wigjam has an energetic style steeped in roots rock, jazz and blues that combines originality, tightness and highly accomplished musicianship to keep their fans coming back for more.
Matthew Reynolds is a reggae, ska influenced musician who plays in 3 bands (Skylar, Howards Alias, and Thinkpol) with his additional solo songs. Mat expresses his life, views and feelings in great metaphorical ways with an easy listening vocal tunes. The music Jerry Garcia played has defined many of us. It has spanned many generations, from Old Time to Bluegrass to Reggae to Blues, to Motown to Rock and Roll and of course Grateful Dead. We grew up with and were shaped by the music of the Grateful Dead. Sharing this music is the goal and love of this band.
More than anything, we appreciate our ever growing group of family and friends. Our shows have turned into a colorful dancing, celebration of like interests and smiles. Reflections plays this music with a vibrancy and joy resulting in a unique energetic sound & thankfully overflowing rooms.
Brother Joscephus and the Love Revival Revolution Orchestra is a 12-piece explosion of righteousness that blends New Orleans party music, Soul in the style of Ray Charles and Al Green, a good helping of jam-bandy Roots Rock and a righteous splash of good, upbeat Gospel without the religious overtones (We like to call it secular gospel). In the group's short history they have already made a big splash in the NYC music scene, sharing the stage with New Orleans stalwarts such as the Rebirth Brass Band, Trombone Shorty, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Bonerama, Big Sam's Funky Nation, the New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars and Eric Lindell. They've sold out legendary venues such as the Highline Ballroom and BB King's.
Ten Toes Up - Sleeping Lion CD
The weekend will also feature 80 musical acts including; Ryan Montbleau Band, New Riders of the Purple Sage, Toubab Krewe, Kung Fu, Jimkata, Dopapod, Adam Ezra Group, Cabinet, The Alchemystics, Van Martin, Rhythm Inc, The McLovins, and many, many more! Additionally, several bands were just added through their victory at the StrangeCreek Battle of the Bands. Congratulations to Rebel Alliance, The Jauntee, and Relative Souls!
In addition to great music, StrangeCreek also features three nights of wooded camping, FireWormz fire spinning show, food and crafts vendors, community bonfire, cabin jams, roaming entertainers, and plenty of good times. Coolers & Grills are welcome. This event sold out last year, and has become a staple of the festival calendar. Many folks view the StrangeCreek Campout as the start of festival season, when the Northeast's music fans bask in the sunshine and music at Camp KeeWanee.
The StrangeCreek experience embodies a true sense of community and compassion in a beautiful, scenic setting. There is something for everyone at this festival, where culture and diversity are celebrated through music, nature, and the people that gather. StrangeCreek is very much a family-friendly festival. The Fest has a special Kid's Cabin, featuring arts and crafts, face painting, and more. A big part of the StrangeCreek experience involves giving back. A portion of the festival's proceeds go back to Camp KeeWanee - a summer day camp for children. Camp KeeWanee provides a safe, nurturing environment for children where they develop self-esteem through exploring nature and the arts.
Other beneficiaries of StrangeCreek include the town of Greenfield, and Camp Quinebaug, a summer camp for children and young adults with special needs.
Strangers Helping Strangers will once again host a food drive for the Franklin County Community Meals Program.
Purveyors of a genre and a way of life, Max Creek celebrated their fortieth anniversary last year. They made it through the seventies, and they're still going. Max Creek is a living, breathing historical study in a hugely significant yet too-oft overlooked American subculture: the jam band. Glide Magazine writer Shane Handler got it right when he issued high praise for Max Creek saying "Bands like Phish, moe., Blues Traveler, the Disco Biscuits and others are the trees in Max Creek's seeds of a thriving Northeast music scene that encourages live risk taking on stage and playing according to the feel of the present moment."
At the heart of Strangefolk's songwriting is a seamless blend of narrative lyrical content and inventive melody. Rock, folk, blues, and bluegrass influences converge to create an instantly recognizable sound, which keeps Strangefolk's listeners moving from start to finish. When punctuated with Strangefolk's trademark three-part harmonies and soaring lead guitars, the band's unique songwriting ability develops a natural avenue for the band to extend themselves in a live setting. The result is one of the more gratifying live music experiences around. Their live releases showcase the band's depth, variety, and continued growth as songwriters and musicians.
Donna the Buffalo's feel-good, groove-oriented, danceable, and often socially conscious music all began over twenty years ago with roots in old time fiddle music that evolved into a soulful electric Americana mix infused with elements of cajun / zydeco, rock, folk, reggae, and country. Donna the Buffalo is known for touring the country remaining fiercely independent as one of the industry's most diverse roots-music bands and has "earned a reputation as one of the most respected, eclectic and hardest-working acts today" praises Encore.
Some music cannot be found on a map or within iTunes categories. Some music is so original it seems snatched from the great, invisible substrata that runs below all human activity, a sound aching to be born without a flag or fixed allegiance - free, questing, overflowing with immediate, tangible life. This is the music of Toubab Krewe, the vibrant Asheville, NC-based instrumental powerhouse that creates a sonic Pangaea that lustily swirls together rock, African traditions, jam sensibilities, international folk strains and more.
Fueled by their passion to explore beyond the edges of traditional musical boundaries and their diverse ethnic and musical backgrounds, the Alchemystics blend reggae, politically infused hip-hop, gritty soul, hard-driving rock, and pulsing Jamaican, Cuban and Trinidadian rhythms into an utterly unique and distinctively original new sound. The result is modern-day roots music with global appeal - an alchemy of ancient musical traditions; intricate, intelligent wordplay; elementally raw soul; irresistible hooks; deep, driving rhythms; and old-school vocal harmonies - fired by the Alchemystic's unique blend of intensity, passion, and sheer artistic chemistry into a powerful, contemporary, and unmistakable sound.
With a definitive sound that combines elements of radio rock and funk, Rustic Overtones are one of the most powerful live bands that you will see, ever. Dave Gutter's mind works in mysterious ways, and the resultant sound and fury set the Rustic Overtones apart. Having survived one of the most contentious record label battles in the history of recorded music, the band has risen from the music industry wasteland to recapture the energy and enthusiasm that heralded their arrival on the music scene over a decade ago. Now with this renewed fire, they are taking to the road from their Portland, ME homes and will not rest until everyone in the world understands the power of the Overtones, Rustic.
Carbon Leaf's brand of rootsy, Celtic-influenced rock originated in Richmond, VA. The band built up a considerable following and were soon releasing albums through their own label. In 2001, Carbon Leaf debuted a more mature sound with the album Echo Echo and won a Coca-Cola-sponsored unsigned band contest that landed them a performance on the American Music Awards.
Songs for Ryan Montbleau typically need to simmer. In his 10-year career this gifted singer and his limber band have built their catalog the old-fashioned way, by introducing new songs to their live set, then bending and shaping them over dozens of performances before committing a definitive version to the hard drive.
In the summer of 1969, John Dawson was looking to showcase his songs while Jerry Garcia was looking to practice his brand new pedal steel guitar. The two played in coffeehouses and small clubs initially, and the music they made became the nucleus for a band--the New Riders of the Purple Sage.
The Adam Ezra Group (AEG) is constantly proving that they are more than just a band, musically, personally, and socially. Selling records and tickets is important to AEG, but they are committed to changing the world with their songs and their actions along the way. Ezra has spent time living out of a van, farming in Canada, volunteering for the relief effort in Kosovo, and practicing environmental geography in South Africa. Whether as a kitchen hand or carpenter, teacher, athlete, or traveler, Ezra crams it all into the music, always challenging our perspective and often teetering somewhere between the ballsy rocker and sensitive poet.
When it comes to the music of Cabinet, the essential bywords are soul, simplicity, and serious musicianship. In concert, the combination of these qualities invariably yields an experience that is so celebratory and moving that the very word Cabinet takes on a new, vivid meaning for anyone in the audience. An inclusive and engaging energy is the uniting through-line as Cabinet weaves bluegrass, country and folk influences to powerful effect. Tight dynamics punctuate gorgeous, soaring harmonies as down-to-earth rhythm and lyrics give way to dreamy jams that are the musical equivalent of the back road scenic route.
Van Gordon Martin is a dynamic virtuoso of the guitar. From slapping it like a bass to playing mind bending solos, he derives textures as diverse as his Chicago roots. From the island sounds of reggae to gritty soul, blues, and r&b, VGM covers all the bases. As a youth, he was a National Merritt scholar in jazz guitar before going on to study for a short time at Berklee Collage of Music in Boston. At age 19, he played his first show with legendary Parliament Funkadelic keybordist and musical director, Bernie Worrell. As former Lead Guitarist and song writer for Boston based band Spiritual Rez, Van has shared stages with the likes of George Clinton and PFunk, Toots and the Maytals, Steel Pulse, Barrington Levy, and Gregory Issacs.
Dopapod exists at the crossroads of full throttle intensity, deep pocket groove, intricate technicality, and limitless experimentation. With no regard towards limiting themselves to stylistic boundaries, the sound that emerges from the quartet both live and in the studio is as varied and diverse as the many influences that they adapt from. Their approach and commitment to complementing a distinct genre bending sound to top-notch musicianship has set them apart from many of their contemporaries and keeps music lovers eagerly returning to shows.
The Boston Globe exclaims "Lovewhip has a celebratory and upbeat feel that has kept crowds dancing everywhere they play!" Lovewhip combines the best of world and reggae dance rhythms with 80's synth and electro beats, creating what The Boston Herald describes as an "irresistible party soundtrack!" Think B-52's, Talking Heads, MIA, Blondie, and Gwen Stefani all rolled into one. Lovewhip's busy touring schedule keeps them on the road for 150+ shows a year around the country where they have opened for such national acts as the B-52's, the Scissor Sisters, the Tom Tom Club, and Third World.
Proud to be firmly installed in 2012's new-funk movement, KUNG FU is quickly popularizing their unique sonic contribution, blurring the line between intense electro-fusion, and blistering dance arrangements. Making fusion music "cool" again, the band draws on influences such as early Headhunters and Weather Report, and merges those ideas with a contemporary EDM informed sensibility. Imagine 70's funk-fusion meets a modern dance party!
Shakedown is New England's Dead Tribute Band. 20+ years in action and going strong!
- American Babies
- Bay Road
- Beau Sasser
- Big Ol' Dirty Bucket
- The Big Sway
- Carole Davia
- Chris Marenda & the Wheel
- Cosmic Dust Bunnies
- Daddie Long Legs
- Danger Muffin
- Desert Rain
- Desolation Angels
- Danny Pease and the Regulators
- Divintress
- Dog Star Blue
- Domino Theory
- Folkadelics
- Flat Nose Diesel Bus
- Formula 5
- Fungus Amungus
- Gary Backstrom Band
- Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad
- Jabooda
- Jamie Kent & the Options
- The Jauntee
- Jimkata
- Juggling Suns
- Juicy Grapes
- The Kind Buds
- The Kings
- Lemon Juice
- Lucid
- Liquid Pocket
- Loves It
- Marco Benevento
- The McLovins
- Miz
- Moses & the Electric Co
- Mutato
- Otis Grove
- Our Own World
- The Raft
- Ready, Set, Flo
- Rebel Alliance
- Relative Souls
- Rev Tor Band
- Rhythm Inc.
- Rich Ortiz
- Rising Tribe
- The Romano Project
- Sparkplug
- Seed
- Straddledaddy
- Sun Parade
- Timbre Coup
- Turbine
- Turkuaz
- Viral Sound
- The Van Burens
- William Thompson Funk Experiment
- Wolfman Conspiracy
- Z3
