Steve Earle was honored by the Recording Academy with a Grammy Award for his album, Townes (New West Records) in the Best Contemporary Folk Album category during their 52nd annual ceremony last night in Los Angeles. This honor marks Earle’s third consecutive Grammy Award win (2004’s The Revolution Starts…Now and 2008’s Washington Square Serenade were both awarded the Grammy in the same category as well). When speaking about Townes, Earle stated, “This may be one of the best records I’ve ever made. That hurts a singer-songwriter’s feelings. Then again, it’s some consolation that I cherry picked through the career of one of the best songwriters that ever lived.” Townes, a 15-song set, is comprised of songs written by Earle’s friend and mentor, the late singer-songwriter, Townes Van Zandt. The album debuted at number 19 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, the highest Top 200 debut in his career. Townes also debuted at #6 on the Billboard
Country Chart. It garnered major worldwide critical acclaim, receiving 4 stars in Uncut, 4 out of 5 stars in The Sunday Express (UK), 3 out of 4 Stars in USA Today and 8 out of 10 stars in Spin magazine which claimed that “…he does his idol justice.” Of the songs, Rolling Stone stated that Earle “…delivers them with the ease of breathing…” and in Best Life magazine, Anthony DeCurtis stated that the album is “beautiful and scarifying.” Townes features guest appearances by Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine/Street Sweeper Social Club/The Nightwatchman), Earle’s wife, singer-songwriter Allison Moorer, and his son, Justin Townes Earle.  more ...

From their days playing together as teenagers to their current acoustic and electric blues, probably no one has more consistently led American music for the last 50 years -- yes! -- than Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, the founders and continuing core members of Hot Tuna. The pair began playing together while growing up in the Washington D.C. area, where Jack's father was a dentist and Jorma's father a State Department official. Four years younger, Jack continued in junior high, then high school -- while playing professional gigs as lead guitarist at night before he was old enough to drive -- while Jorma (who had played rhythm guitar to Jack's lead) started college in Ohio, accompanied his family overseas, then returned to college, this time in California. Along the way, Jorma became enamored with, then committed to, the finger-picking guitar style exemplified by the now-legendary Rev. Gary Davis. Jack, meanwhile, had taken an interest in the electric bass, at the time a controversial instrument in blues, jazz, and folk circles. In the mid 1960s, Jorma was asked to audition to play guitar for a new band that was forming in San Francisco. Though an acoustic player at heart, he grew interested in the electronic gadgetry that was beginning to make an appearance in the popular music scene -- particularly in a primitive processor brought to the audition by a fellow named Ken Kesey -- and decided to join that band; soon thereafter he summoned his young friend from Washington, who now played the bass. Thus was created the unique (then and now) sound that was The Jefferson Airplane. Jorma even contributed the band's name, drawn from a nickname a friend had for the blues-playing Jorma. Jack's experience as a lead guitarist led to a style of bass playing which took the instrument far beyond its traditional role. more ...

Ego Likeness was formed in 1999 by artist Steven Archer, a DC native, and writer Donna Lynch in Baltimore, Maryland. Originally an experimental / dark trip hop project, the band began moving towards a darker electronic dance sound with their self-released album Dragonfly in 2000. They spent the next few years refining their vision and in 2004 signed with Dancing Ferret Discs for the release of “Water to the Dead”. Subsequent years saw the band touring extensively throughout the US and Europe including multiple festival appearances. In 2006 they released their third full length CD “The Order of the Reptile” Again the band took to the road with more European and American shows and in 2008 they performed at Black Sun IV and toured with Voltaire. From 2007-2009 they released a series of singles which would come to comprise much of the material for their 2010 full length CD Breedless, released on Metropolis Records. They have spent much of the last year touring extensively in support of their newest release.

The Twilight Garden mixes atmospheric synths and catchy melodies and fuses them with hypnotic drum beats, lush guitar work, and elegantly powerful vocals from sole band-member Todd Loomis. Todd passionately blends old school European synth-pop, cold wave and post-punk into a modern, atmospheric, accessible darkwave sound. Imagine Disintegration-era Cure with more emphasis on the electronics. Todd's previous life was as a co-conspirator in Velvet Acid Christ, co-writing and performing on 2006's Lust for Blood, which ranked at the top of Germany's DAC for four weeks; the album's single release, "Wound," ranked on the DAC's singles chart for seven weeks and held the #1 position for four weeks.    more ...

With a lineup that sports several members that are still in high school, it would be easy to dismiss Ephrata, PA’s TEXAS IN JULY as a novelty act. To do so, however, would be a disservice to a band that is every bit as talented as many artists who have honed their craft for years. A quick search on YouTube will reveal guitarists and drummers playing along with songs from Salt of the Earth, trying to show that they can “keep up”. That’s some heady stuff for a high school student to process, but so far, says guitarist Logan Maurer, TIJ have managed to keep their feet planted firmly on the ground. “The key word in our band is ‘humble,’” he explains. “We want everybody to know that anyone could do this. We want them to know that we are just like them and that we simply stuck with our dreams. We try to stay humble and let the fans know that we love them and that without them, we wouldn’t be where we are.” Produced by Carson Slovak of CENTURY (Prosthetic Records), I Am shows the maturation of a band already mature beyond their years. Armed with a prodigious chops and a song-writing prowess that belies their ages, I Am represents a band that is ready for national attention. From the brutal churning rhythms of “Elements” to the mathy angular guitar riffs of their hometown anthem, “Lancaster”, to the brutal “Satellites” (featuring GWEN STACY vocalist Geoff Jenkins), TEXAS IN JULY display an acumen for songcraft that comes only with dedication, commitment, and maybe a little help from above. “The fact is,” Maurer continues, “Without God, none of us would have the ability to do anything that we do. He has blessed us in so many ways, so this is almost our way to return the favor.”  more ...

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Founded in the Summer of 2006 by Dale Haskins and Kelby Weilnau, Finding the Found is a Six-Piece Rock band based out of Rochester, NY. The band's repertoire consists primarily of original material, and they have independently recorded and released two CD's in the past two years, entitled “Finding The Found” and “Taking Flight”, which contain several fan favorites including One Shot, Rebel, Wizards and Dragons, and Just Friends. Currently the band continues to play around Rochester and plan to play in shows over the summer of 2010.    more ...

HERO offers a dramatic blend of melody and rhythm with intense instrumental performance. The band was formed in 2005 in the rural town of Perry, New York. Their sound harkens back to the early days of rock, but is contemporary in its approach to the genre; a strong emphasis is placed on improvisation. They perform various rock stylings inspired by the classic rock of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s; songs feature astonishing solo breaks with musical energy, and complex interaction between musicians. Front man Roy Walker has crafted his great guitar sound with the heavy influence of classic blues. He not only offers remarkable guitar and vocals but brings powerful energy to the band. Brad Warner has a unique style of interacting with the band; his drum parts and musical vision guide them along. Jeremy Hyland’s creative keyboard parts are the foundation that the songs are built on, his style and talent are essential to the band. The bass sound and talent of Tyler Brant bring fullness to the songs. Originally known for his trumpet playing, Brant was recruited to play bass for HERO. One of the founding members of the band, Tom Stoddard has recently returned with new talents and energy, his rhythm guitar and bass hold the band together through their musical journey. The band has gained exposure through a local television appearance and local gigs. They have recorded a demo and continue preparation for the production a full length album. Be sure to visit our web pages to check out our music and keep up to date with the band.

The San Francisco quintet Thriving Ivory came together when Clayton Stroope (vocals) and Scott Jason (pianist and songwriter) met at college. They were soon joined by Drew Cribley (guitar), Bret Cohune (bass), and Paul Niedermier (drums) and, inspired by U2 and Coldplay, began playing gigs for their fellow students, as well as recording their self-funded, self-titled independent debut with Jellyfish's Chris Manning, who acted as their producer. While building a fan base with their shows and album, the band also got a boost from local radio station KITS, which put their song "Angels on the Moon" in full rotation; listeners soon made it one of the station's most requested tracks. After signing with Wind-Up Records in 2007, Thriving Ivory worked with producer Howard Benson on a new version of their debut album (including new and re-recorded tracks). It was released in June 2008.  more ...

Ryan Star’s time is now. As the title of the New York rocker’s Atlantic debut provocatively suggests, Star’s whole life has been building to this point. The songs on “11:59” play out in real time, the stories spin out in narratives that resonate with urgency and truth. Star’s often stripped-bare vocals give the songs an added resonance.  “There have been a million hopes and let downs to get here,” Star says. ”I don’t think you really choose the time as an artist, I think the time chooses you. This album is who I am.” And now that he’s here, as track “Right Now’ stresses, he is going to seize the moment. Thoughtfully and meticulously created, “11:59” proves well worth the wait. Throughout much of the album, Star seamlessly melds traditional rock elements with captivating rhythms. For “11:59,” Star partnered with producer Matt Serletic (matchbox twenty, Collective Soul), who artfully understood how to combine Star’s storytelling style with his modern sensibilities.  “Matt and I created something special; we really put our different personalities together to make this record,” Star says. Howard Benson (Daughtry, My Chemical Romance) provided additional production to bring out his rock roots. For more than half his life, Star has been a fiery performer.  more ..

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Mosaic Foundation, a eight and sometimes ten piece roots reggae band hailing from Rochester, NY, was formed out of a mutual love and passion for reggae music. Their aim is to create a new dimension to the roots reggae scene while staying true to the foundation of the music. The band member’s influences are as broad as their roots with players coming from Cameroon, Hong Kong, ethnic roots stemming from Jamaica, and across Europe. This unique blend of roots woven through the music are meant to invoke in the listener a sense of freedom, peace, connection and heart centered vibes.   more ...

I.G.S. is a five piece experimental dub group whose music is largely based in structured improvisation incorporating a wide spectrum of rhythms and sounds. I.G.S. was founded in the summer of 2009 and is comprised of Adrien D’Angelo, Sunny Zaman, Brendon Caroselli, Michael Van Munster, and Zac Lux who are all from Rochester, NY. more ...

Minds Open Wide is the brainchild of Freddie Decoste, former bass player from national recording artist Psyopus. Wanting to take a break from the hardcore scene, Decoste decided to venture into new musical territory by putting down the bass and grabbing the guitar. Carrying over some his technically monstrous song writing from Psyopus and mixing it with a funky alternative edge, Freddie’s next obvious step was to find fellow musicians that could help him make his musical dreams a reality. This is when longtime friend and bassist Monk (Fuel, Nickel) came in the picture. Fred and Monk clicked. They became a song writing machine and after writing steadily for over a year felt it was the right time to find a vocalist. They always had one singer in mind for their project, and as luck has it, he became available; vocalist, poet and mid-nineties lyricist Todd Gursslin (Fuel, Nickel, Kaged). The final piece was formed shortly after when drummer Ronnie Lickers (BML, Fuel, and Nickel) joined the band. Welcome to the world, Minds Open Wide. After listening to M.O.W. it’s fairly obvious to hear their musical influences. Influences such as Faith No More, A Perfect Circle, Mars Volta, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
It is obvious when listening to Minds Open Wide Wide’s syncopated rhythms and melodic prog rock that Decostes’ playing is enriched with his schooling of classical and flamenco guitar. With technical aspects that your average listener can relate to mixed with an emotional outpouring of vocals, Minds Open Wide is rightfully equipped to produce positive results in the music business.    more ...

Wake up and watch out! The Absolutes return to take the stage. The Absolutes' debut album, She's Alright With Me, is something not to be taken lightly. A full on assault of heavy garage rock and pop hooks, She's Alright With Me is a 30 minute ride you won't forget. If you thought music had died in 1969 then tune in, drop out and enjoy your new favorite band!  more ...

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The Deep Blue Dream is a 5 piece, soulful, funky, blues rock jam band with irie overtones. They have been performing in and around the Rochester area for the past 5 years with one record under their belt, and soon to release their sophomore album. From Ken's solid bass foundation, to Joe's dynamic beats, Alex's blue-groove riffs, Faith's beautifully interwoven sax lines, right up to Lauren's percussive keys and fiery vocals - they will be sure to captivate and engage any audience. They have had the honor and privilege of sharing the stage with many great musicians including Medeski Martin and Wood, Phoebe Snow, The Campbell Brothers, and Patti Labelle.   more ...

After much planning and patience, The Fools began rehearsing what was to become the inception of an increasingly growing musical powerhouse in March 2010. The Fools are: Mickey Ames, Lead Guitar/Vocals, Joey Cintorino, Drums/Back Up Vocals, Mary Ellen Hayden, Lead Vocals/Acoustic Guitar, Steve McNally, Hammond B3/Piano and Dave Quick, Bass/Back Up Vocals. Collectively, the band members have shared the stage and recorded with some of the best in the music business. Serving up a rich array of powerful Rock, R & B and Blues, The Fools are currently working on their own material for an upcoming album. When you hear them live you will notice their own special spin on material by such legends as ; The Rolling Stones, The Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, James Brown, Aretha Franklin and BB King among others. Look for The Fools to be strollin’ on in to a venue near you!

Extended Family was formed in 2004 when Andy “Stump” Rosenhack bought a guitar and wanted his childhood friend Geoff to play with him. Geoff and Stumpy recruited their friend, Todd, to come and play with them on bass. Stumpy then suckered his co-worker Rick to come be part of this happy experiment. A year after this group began playing, Geoff bumped into a guy named Mark on a “fans of Empty Nest” website. Mark said he played drums and would love to sit in with the guys sometime. He did in the Spring of 2005 and has never left. The idea behind the band has been to try and create original music where nothing is off-limits. This has helped the band attempt to create an eclectic morphing of styles while remaining true to their 70’s rock roots.  more ...

Voodoo Zoo is the brainchild of local music veteran Jeff Martin. Martin has played throughout the northeast for more than 30 years. He’s performed with area bands including No Camouflage, Agent 99, Gibraltar and his own Jeff Martin Band. He currently performs as the guitarist with Joe Brucato, vocalist for Monkey See, and as guitarist and vocalist for Shameless Henry and Bar Stars. Martin has assembled a cast of A-list players for this project. The nucleus of bassist Chris Meeker (Going for the One, formerly of The Waiting Room) and drummer Keith Bashnick (John Oliver and the Distinguished) is rounded out by guitarist/saxophonist Brian Dobbie (Ruby Shooz, Wells Hollow), keyboardist/percussionist Jeff Everdyke (Shameless Henry), and vocalists Janelle Conley and Jason Willey. The disc features guest performances by Joe Brucato on vocals, John Spina and Erik Welsh on drums, and Bob Embury and Mark Terranova on bass.   more ...

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The Rhythm Devils began as the duo of Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann and his percussionist partner Mickey Hart. Over the years, they transcended rock and roll drum stereotypes with polyrhythmic explorations of the world of percussion, using an extraordinary variety of instruments and approaches. The aftermath of this collaboration was the larger Rhythm Devils, which have made periodic reappearances over the years.The 2010 version includes Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart, Keller Williams (guitar, vocals), Davy Knowles (guitar, vocals), Sikiru Adepoju (talking drum), and Andy Hess (bass). Together, they will take music beyond the horizon to a universe where rhythm is in constant flux and sound has infinite potential. They’ll rock.   more ...

Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad is relentless reggae sound. Roots reggae and experimental dub. North American International Body Music.
GPGDS has played 500 shows in the past three years, touring relentlessly and developing a widespread grassroots following. The group has performed at premier venues and festivals across the U.S. including Red Rocks and Rothbury.
In November 2009, Giant Panda released a new album LIVE UP!, which debuted at number two on iTunes’ Reggae Chart. LIVE UP! is a selection of high-quality, previously unreleased live recordings, hand picked by the Rochester NY road warriors. The album exemplifies the tight musicianship and dynamic live show experience GPGDS is known for. It complements their debut studio release Slow Down (2006).
LIVE UP! is the closing statement of Giant Panda’s former six-piece lineup, as they are now forging ahead as a quartet. “The reality of this band is that we’re always evolving – musically, spiritually, and within our own circle,” says GPGDS bassist James Searl. “LIVE UP! documents the sound and chemistry that six people shared with each other and crowds around the nation. We’re excited about the future as a quartet, and eager to explore new territories.”
Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad has shared the stage with reggae greats Toots And The Maytals, The Wailers, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Steel Pulse, Israel Vibration, Yellowman, Culture, The Meditations, Don Carlos, Morgan Heritage, Midnite, Mad Professor, and Edi Fitzroy.  more ...

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Averaging over 200 gigs per year for the past few years, Ryan Montbleau Band has generated the kind of buzz that only surrounds a talented artist on the verge. Emerging onto the national music scene from his home base of Boston, Ryan Montbleau has been described as something of a Martin Sexton by way of Van Morrison and Stevie Wonder. Yet Ryan Montbleau Band’s music is diffi cult to pigeon-hole or neatly categorize. It is original yet familiar—a fresh sound full of fi rmly-rooted ingredients, including Americana, folk, blues, ragtime and ’70’s R&B and soul. Whereas the band’s intriguing instrumentation and arrangements (not to mention top notch chops) help to create this unique sound, all is fi rmly anchored by Montbleau’s water-tight lyrics and unmistakable voice.   more ...

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Look no further than the title track of their new Vanguard debut album The Bear to understand Stephen Kellogg and The Sixers. As the band sings passionately, “Sometimes you get the bear, sometimes the bear gets you. Sometimes you’re gonna win, sometimes you’re gonna lose… but you know in the end – there's no apologies!”  Many bands talk about “keeping it real,” but in The Sixers’ case, they mean it. “We’re not up there projecting a personality we can’t believe in. I think it’s important to go with the feel of each moment and take chances. If that means we get out of synch or sing out of key once in a while, so be it. The crags are cool because they’re interesting.”  That explains why producer Tom Schick (Norah Jones, Ryan Adams, Rufus Wainwright) signed up for the new record. “Each person in The Sixers really adds a lot,” he says. “They’re so locked in with each other. Stephen is definitely the leader of the gang, but everybody has their say,” he adds of the roles played by Boots Factor and Kit Karlson. “They rise and fall together. It’s amazing to watch them work.”  Although The Bear is not a concept record, there is a conscious time line that the characters on the record follow and Kellogg even goes so far as to say thatit's "66 percent autobiographical." Of course, he will only elaborate on it a little, "If I explained the entire story to you, it wouldn't be as fun to dive in and figure it out for yourself", he says grinning. "I'm sorry, but I just can't take apart every aspect of the music without taking something out of the soul of it... you'll have to experience it yourself and find meaning there." No apologies needed.   more ...