Good Times Magazine #1324

Brickyard

Fri 5/19 The 1984 Band

Sat 5/20 The Bad Decision Band

Sun 5/21 Jazz/Acoustic Brunch 12-4 pm Dave Evans Trio

Fri 5/26 Birchwood Park

Sat 5/27 E-3 2-6 pm, Electric Nachos 7-10 pm

Sun 5/28 Jazz/Acoustic Brunch 12-4 pm Heart & Soul

Fri 6/2 Abraham Lincoln

Sat 6/3 The Tom Sawyers

Sun 6/4 Jazz/Acoustic Brunch 12-4 pm Angry Acoustic Alice

Fri 6/9 The Bad Decision Band

Sat 6/10 1984 Band

Sun 6/11 Jazz/Acoustic Brunch 12-4 pm Birchwood Park

Thurs 6/15 Mach 5 Band

• Monday Madness Game Night • Tuesday Open Mic & Band Rehearsal Nights

• Wednesday Wacky Wednesday Game & Trivia Nights

• Thursday Motor Vehicle Parade 4-8pm Karaoke 7-10pm

• Friday and Saturday Band Nights 8-11pm

• Sunday Jazz Brunch 12-4pm

Wednesday May 24 Elie Tri Hybrid Networking Event at Long Island Welcome Center

Thursday May 25 Stony Brook Sea Wolves Toastmasters Meeting 5:30 -7:30pm

Wednesday June 10 Elie Tri Hybrid Networking at Bagel Lover’s Cafe Riverhead

Thursday June 11

Stony Brook Sea Wolves Toastmasters Meeting 5:30 -7:30pm

COMING SOON...MID-JULY Bagel Lover’s Cafe - Music Nites July 3 at Brickyard Bar & Grill

TASTE OF THE SOUTH SHORE

The annual Taste of the South Shore, presented by Porsche South Shore, will return to Gatsby on the Ocean at Jones Beach, May 18, 2023. Taste of the South Shore is a one-night event filled with tastes from over a dozen local restaurants alongside beverage partners featuring tastes of spirits, wines, hard seltzers, canned cocktails, craft beers, and coffee. Guests will also enjoy fire pits, axe throwing, live entertainment, DJ/dancing, and other fun surprises.

Three levels of tickets are on sale: General Admission ($35), VIP ($65) and Elite Suite ($1200 for eight guests). General Admission enjoys three hours of unlimited tastes (6 p.m. - 9 p.m.), while VIPs and Elite Suite guests enjoy four hours along with special tastes and spaces (5 p.m. - 9 p.m.). A portion of all ticket sales benefit both Island Harvest and Discover Long Island.

“We created Taste of the South Shore to celebrate our local restaurant scene and to help drive consumers to our downtown dining and entertainment districts,” said Alissa Marti, Connoisseur Media Long Island Marketing Director and Event Producer for Taste of the South Shore. “We hope every guest tries something new and then keeps that restaurant top of mind when choosing their next night out.” Details, tickets and full list of partners at www.tastesouthshore.com

FROM HERE TO HAITI WALKATHON

From Here to Haiti is a public charity located in Whitestone, Queens. They are an all-volunteer organization that repairs non-governmental edifices such as churches, clinics, schools and their related structures in Haiti. They were formed in the aftermath of the earthquake of 2010 and work in concert with the community to complete our projects.

They raise funds by having an art show, a walkathon, and a dinner gala every year. The Walkathon will be on May 20th at Little Bay Park. The start of the walk will be at the park entrance at the end of Utopia Parkway by the Throgs Neck Bridge. This year the proceeds of the Walkathon will go toward digging two wells in Les Irois, a small seaside village at the tip of the southern peninsula of Haiti. One of the wells will serve the main school of the village, the parochial school of Notre Dame de la Merci, and the other will serve the village center for the community. As you may know, the situation in Haiti is dire and gangs and bandits have taken over the capital. For information contact Patricia Brintle (646) 209-3891 fromheretohaiti@gmail

For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call (631) 940-DUCK (3825).

SEEKERS & DREAMERS CABARET FUNDRAISER

Twenty five musicians (16 are original songwriters) are coming together to raise money for children in two of the poorest countries in Africa – Ethiopia and Burundi via h2 Empower, a non-profit organization. This 100% charity event will have cabaret-style candlelit tables, appetizers, desserts, wine, beer, and hot and cold beverages available for sale. Tickets are $20 and seating is limited. It will take place Saturday, May 20th at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 109 Browns Road, Huntington.

This will be a festive evening by talented Long Island performers based on Janice Buckner’s show “Seekers & Dreamers” which toured internationally on the theme of finding empowerment and meaning in life. Janice has invited other singer/songwriters to share their own compositions on stage.

Performers & songwriters include (alphabetically listed): Julian Aptowitz, Candice Baranello, Akiva the Believer, Josie & Frank Bello, Lorraine Berger, Janice Buckner, Anna E Kravis, Emily Eisen, Suzanne Ernst, Heather Forest, James Gibb, Maureen Keelty, Kate Levine, Annie Mark, Maggie & Mike Mills, Ralph Monterosso, James O’Malley, Wayne Sayres, Terry Seidl, Linda Sussman, Lisa Wharton, Patricia Shih with Stephen Fricker.

Visit the website www.h2empower.comIn addition to the main event, the Warner Records Stage at HOT 97 Summer Jam will kick off the afternoon pre-show with host French Montana and feature some of the best emerging artists including, NLE Choppa, Kenzo B, 2Rare, Sha EK, McVert and TQ.

HUNTINGTON

PUBLIC ART CRAWL

The PUBlic Art Crawl is a village-wide celebration of rich art and creative culture in Huntington. Starting with public facing murals, to restaurants, live music, poetry and an art fair, there is something for everyone!

Launched two years ago by the Huntington Chamber of Commerce, the mission of this event is to celebrate Huntington while driving tourism to the vibrant village.

PARTICIPATING IS FREE! Meet on Wall Street on June 3rd for a free tote with swag and guided map of public murals, watch new murals being painted and other happenings.

Pick up a map of public murals & artworks, live murals, music and poetry, food and drink specials plus a special local art market.

More information at www.huntingtonpublicartcrawl.com or email Leanne@HuntingtonChamber.com.

HOT TIPS

BETHPAGE AIR SHOW AT JONES BEACH

The final performer line-up for the much-anticipated Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach, taking place on Saturday, May 27th and Sunday, May 28th , from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. has been announced.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds return to Long Island for their 9th headliner performance. Military performers joining the Thunderbirds include the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, the United States Marines F-35B Demonstration Team, the United States Navy F-18 Growler Legacy Team and the United States Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod.

Civilian performers include the world-famous Skytypers and their flight squadron of five vintage WWII aircraft; Mike Goulian, North America’s most decorated aerobatic pilot; Folds of Honor Biplane with Ed Hamill; the American Air Power Museum Warbirds; and Farmingdale State College Flying Rams, who will fly several of their 22 college-owned aircraft.

The Bethpage Air Show is free to the public, but the standard $10.00 vehicle use fee will be collected each day upon entry to the State Park. For up-to-date information about this year’s show, please visit www.bethpageairshow.com

American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month. The celebration includes live performances from around the world, food from local restaurants, and cultural activities.

There will be a lively market and food representing the countries of Afghanistan, China, India, Japan, Korea, Pakistan, and the Philippines. The event is free; there is a $10 parking fee per vehicle if paying with cash, $7 parking fee if paying with credit or debit card.For more information, please call 311 or (516) 869-6311.

mances include GRAMMY-nominated artists Margo Price, and Shemekia Copeland, Latin GRAMMY-nominated artist Gaby Moreno, plus Dawn Richard + Spencer Zahn, Sudan Archives, Seratones, Tamtam, Marshall Allen and The Sun Ra Arkestra and the legendary Martha Reeves.

The ceremony will be hosted by multihyphenate, Hannibal Buress. Buress will be pulling double duty during the night, also taking the stage for a performance with his project, Eshu Tune.

The 12th annual Libera Awards is set to take place on Thursday, June 15 at the iconic Town Hall in midtown Manhattan. Tickets are on sale now.

ASIAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL

The Asian American Festival will be held on Saturday, May 20th beginning at 11:30 a.m. at North Hempstead Beach Park in Port Washington.

At the May 2 Town Board Meeting, officials proclaimed May 2023 Asian American and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month in the Town of North Hempstead. Since the first Asian American Festival in 2010, members of the North Hempstead community have celebrated the Asian cultures represented in North Hempstead yearly during Asian

THE 2023 LIBERA AWARDS

A2IM (The American Association of Independent Music, Inc.) announced the performers of the 2023 Libera Awards which features an incredible array of talent. Evening perfor-

The Libera Awards is an annual ceremony awarding the work of often overlooked independent artists who, through their ground-breaking accomplishments, have an enormous impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of fans by overcoming obstacles many major label artists are able to avoid. The ceremony will recognize outstanding achievements and accomplishments across all genres and celebrate the hard work and dedication of artists, individuals, and labels in 37 categories. For more info visit www.a2im.org

HOT TIPS

2023 RRHOF INDUCTEES

The 38th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, November 3, 2023 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. Ticket on sale information will be announced at a later date. Select Rock Hall donors and members get exclusive Induction ticket opportunities. Donate or join by June 30th to be eligible. Visit rockhall.com/ membership to learn more.

To be eligible, artists are required to have released their first record 25 years prior to Induction. Four of seven Inductees in the Performer category were on the ballot for the first time, including Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, George Michael, and Willie Nelson. This was the first year of eligibility for Missy Elliott.

that the countdown is officially on for the biggest party in sports when professional darts returns to The Theater at Madison Square Garden on June 2-3! The bet365 US Darts Masters arrives in New York City for the two-day competition following a hugely successful debut in NYC in 2022.

The bet365 US Darts is an event unlike any other with energetic fans dressing up in costumes, and players with unique nicknames, eye-catching hair and wardrobes, and iconic entrance music. Professional darts has a massive following in Europe and is known for its fun, party like atmosphere. Whether a long-time fan of darts or completely new to the sport, everyone is guaranteed to have a great time! Tickets are available now at ticketmaster.com.

The 16-player US Darts Masters field will feature eight of the world’s leading darts players taking on eight North American representatives.

RIGHT TRACK INN REUNION FUNDRAISER

BET365 US DARTS MASTERS IS BACK!

Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) announced

For the first time since the 1980’s, Freelance Vandals, Sorethumb and Broken Arrow, who performed at one of most iconic clubs on Long Island, the Right Track Inn, will reunite for a concert at the Warehouse in Amityville, to benefit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on June 10th, at 7 p.m. These 3 bands were a fixture in the 1980’s on the Long Island club scene and had major followings. Each had their own unique brand of rock and roll music and enjoyed immense popularity due to their live performances. Freddy Monday, owner of music production company, Endo music, and lead singer and bassist for Sorethumb,

BROADWAY: AWARDS SEASON

Some must-see shows as awards season begins: “Parade,” the heartbreaking true-life tale of the unjust arrest, trial and lynching of Jewish factory supervisor Leo Frank for the murder of a 13-year old girl in 1913 Atlanta is the most unlikely subject for a Broadway musical. And yet, Jason Robert Brown’s sweeping score of anthems, marches and passionate love ballads perfectly expresses the era and the characters’ intense feelings. “Dear Evan Hanson’s” Ben Platt and Micaela Diamond give impassioned performances as Leo and Lucille Frank whose reserved relationship blossoms into passion. Director Michael Arden and an absolutely perfect cast nail the emotional power of the 1998 Tony-winning musical in this handsome, thrilling and devastating revival. (Jacobs Theatre) https:// paradebroadway.com

Jodie Comer (“Killing Eve”) just won the Olivier Award for her incredible solo performance in Suzie Miller’s harrowing drama “Prima Facie,” a high-wire act in which she plays a cocky London barrister who prides herself on her skill at defending men accused of sexual assault until a flirtation with a colleague

turns into an assault and upends her life. Now the victim, she watches as a defense lawyer uses all her own tricks against her in the courtroom. (Golden Theatre) https://primafacieplay.com

Another tour-de-force is “Will and Grace’s” Sean Hayes’s portrayal of pianist, composer, actor, wit and mental patient Oscar Levant, in Pulitzer Prizewinning playwright Doug Wright’s “Good Night, Oscar.” Hayes not only brilliantly conveys Levant’s tics, OCD quirks and scathing wit, he also stuns the audience with his masterful piano playing, expertly performing a long except from Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” (Belasco Theatre) https:// goodnightoscar.com

On a lighter note, you can’t beat “Some Like It Hot” and John Kander, Fred Ebb, Lin-Manuel Miranda, David Thompson and Susan Stroman’s bighearted and gorgeous Valentine “New York, New York” for big brassy Broadway razzle-dazzle. (St. James Theatre) https://newyorknewyorkbroadway.com

But the dark horse this season is the corny original musical “Shucked,” a laugh-fest of hilarious old-fashioned and hoary jokes, with a cast bursting with talent, especially the show-stopping Alex Newell. (Nederlander Theatre) https:// shuckedmusical.com

The long-awaited Brittany Spears’ jukebox musical “One More Time” finally arrives on Broadway. Jon Hartmere’s book constructs a revisionist fairytale in which Cinderella, Snow

is looking forward to getting the band back together. The Right Track Inn in Freeport was a major live music venue, host to local bands as well as national acts, some of whom are LimeHof inductees, including Joan Jett, The Ramones, The Good Rats, Taylor Dane, Richie Havens, the Stray Cats, and Little Buster and the Soul Brothers. The origins of this reunion came about because of the inclusion at the Hall of Fame of the video for the single “Let’s Give Them Life,” written by Freddy Monday and John Snow of Sorethumb, featuring LimeHof 2006 inductee, Little Buster.

by Jane Klain

White, Little Mermaid and other storybook characters learn to claim their own happily ever after. (Marquis Theatre) https://onemoretimemusical.com

Off-Broadway, the Manhattan Theatre Club presents playwright Rajiv Joseph’s “King James,” which chronicles the unexpected friendship between two Cleveland men whose intertwined fortunes are tied to those of their idol NBA hero LeBron James. Kenny Leon directs and Glenn Davis and Chris Perfetti star. (City Center Stage1) https:// www.manhattantheatreclub.com/shows/202223-season/king-james/

Another highly anticipated show is composer Adam Guettel’s new musical, “Days of Wine and Roses,” starring Kelli O’Hara and Brian d’Arcy James as a young couple battling alcoholism in 1950s New York. Directed by Michael Greif. Craig Lucas’s book is based on JP Miller’s 1958 teleplay and script for the 1962 film. (Atlantic Theatre’s Linda Gross Theatre) https://atlantictheater.org/production/days-of-wine-and-roses/

Photo courtesy RRHOF

PAC TRACK

FAST LANE AT WHBPAC

THE FAST LANE has gained the reputation of being the truest sounding Eagles Tribute Band in the World. Their renditions of Eagles classics have been recognized by many in the industry. They are receiving praise throughout North America and Europe.

The Fast Lane has also been heralded by the International Press Association’s Pat Ryder who wrote, “If you didn’t know better, you’d swear you were really at an Eagles concert!”. The band has quickly risen through the ranks of the tribute scene, and gone from opening act to headliner almost overnight. One listen to The Fast Lane is all it will take to make even the most DieHard Eagles lover a fan for life!

They’re appearing June 3rd at The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Tickets are $61.00$73.00 including fees 631-288-1500 or whbpac.org

EN VOGUE AT COLDEN AUDITORIUM

En Vogue, the legendary R&B group, is set to perform live in concert at Kupferberg Center for the Arts, Queens College on Friday, May 19 at 8 p.m. The concert promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages, featuring En Vogue’s classic hits and new music.

Legendary! It’s a status very few groups ever attain. But for 30 years and counting, En Vogue has achieved this pinnacle on nothing but pure talent. And they are not letting up now. Still riding high off the global release of 2018’s “Electric Café,” their first album in 14 years, En Vogue is literally soaring as Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron and Rhona Bennett take the group to even greater heights.

Tickets ($50-$95) for En Vogue’s concert are on sale now and are can be purchased online (https://kupferbergcenter.org/event/en-vogue/) or at the box office (718-793-8080).

and

“Another Suitcase in Another Hall.”

Tickets for EVITA are on sale now and start at $55. For more information, contact the Box Office at (631) 286-1133, or visit the website at TheGateway.org.

CALL FOR ART GALLERY SHOW SUBMISSIONS

Queens Rising is holding an open call for Queens-based visual artists to present work in a month-long gallery show entitled Queens Seen: What Artists are Creating in the World’s Borough. In partnership with Culture Lab LIC, this gallery show will highlight a variety of work intended to show the brilliance, creativity, and beauty of some of the visual art happening in Queens.

Submissions are open to anyone who lives or works in Queens. Works will be judged by a jury consisting of Phil Ballman, Louise Weinberg, and Ann Margaret O’Connor. The show will be curated by Queens artist Karen Dimit. Bios included below.

To apply, visit https://queensrising.nyc/ and click the link for Open Call - Visual Artists!

EVITA AT GATEWAY PLAYHOUSE

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s EVITA will run at The Gateway Playhouse through May 28th, to launch the 74th season.

EVITA charts the young and ambitious Eva Peron’s meteoric rise to sainthood. Set in Argentina between 1934-1952, the Tony Award-winning musical follows Eva Duarte on her journey from a poor illegitimate child, to an ambitious actress, to the wife of military leader-turned-president Juan Peron, and to the most powerful woman in Latin America, all before her death from cancer at the early age of 33.

The events in Evita’s life are presented in song and commented on by the show’s narrator, Che. Well-known numbers from Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece include “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Oh What a Circus,” “Buenos Aires”

THE FELICE BROTHERS ROOTS ROCK

A folk-Americana-rock-country band with deep roots in varied genres,the Felice Brothers, Ian (guitar and lead vocals) and James (multi-instrumentalist and vocals), hail from the Catskills, NY, where their early songs echoed off subway walls and kept company with travelers and vagrants. Their current lineup, with the addition of bassist and inaugural female Felice member Jesske Hume (Conor Oberst, Jade Bird) and drummer Will Lawrence (also a singer/songwriter) as their rhythm section, promises to be the best yet.

In From Dreams to Dust, their eighth and most recent studio album, the band’s exuberance to be together doing what they do so well is palpable. Nathaniel Walcott (trumpet) and Mike Mogis (pedal steel player) act as an accompaniment throughout the tracks, the latter of whom mixed From Dreams to Dust, which was produced by The Felice Brothers. They’re coming to Landmark on Main Street, Pt. Washington on June 18 at 7 p.m. Box Office Mon - Fri, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 516.767.6444 Email boxoffice@landmarkonmainstreet.org www.landmarkonmainstreet.org

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

New York City’s outdoor performing arts festival, bringing 80 free and benefit shows to Central Park and 12 neighborhood parks across the five boroughs. Returning for its 37th year, the festival will once again showcase established and emerging artists from across the globe, presenting a multitude of genres including salsa, jazz, hip-hop, indie rock, reggae, Afrobeats, soul, pop, global, contemporary dance, and many more.

BELL BLVD FOOD AND MUSIC FEST

A restaurant stroll on Sunday, June 4th from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., you can try over 30 different restaurants on Bell Blvd. between 38th Ave. and Northern Blvd. Bayside, Queens.

In addition, the Bell Blvd. Food & Music Fest will feature free live music and activities on every block, including dance performances and group lessons. Arts and crafts, beach ball volleyball, ping pong, shuffleboard and other family entertainment will fill the afternoon. The activities and music are free to all!

Advanced discount tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children under 12 years old. Tickets can also be purchased in person on Bell Blvd. at Apollo Comfort Shoes, Pardon My Sub and Sterling Pharmacy.

Businesses participating in the Restaurant Stroll include: Afternoon, Avli The Little Greek Tavern, Baraki, Bell Garden, Belly Cake, Bourbon Street, Brian Dempsey’s Bar & Restaurant, Bareburger, Krave It, Local Pour House, Maria’s Mediterranean, Mister Seoul, Moho Mexican Grill, Momo Ashi, Monahan & Fitzgerald, Mr. Pollo, Neptune Diner, Nippon Cha, Nonnas 1970 Pizzeria, Pardon My Sub, Papazzio, Press 195, Gordons, Red Mango, SoBol, Spanglish NYC, Taverna Kyclades, The French Workshop, The Lazy Cow, Uncle Jack’s Steakhouse, Valdari and VIPizza.

The season will also feature acclaimed local artists returning to their NY roots. Brooklyn-based artist Nick Hakim will bring his soulful R&B sounds back to Brooklyn when he performs on July 14 in Von King Park, R&B legends Kool & The Gang will return to SummerStage on July 22 in Queens’ Flushing Meadows Corona Park, salsa legend Eddie Palmieri will have crowds dancing on August 14 in Crotona Park and Jazz virtuoso Jason Moran will bring his critically acclaimed music project, The Harlem Hellfighters, to Marcus Garvey Park.

STATE FAIR MEADOWLANDS RETURNS

The State Fair Meadowlands will host a year of thrilling amusement rides, racing pigs, magicians and delicious fair food. Taking place from June 22-July 9, the 2023 Fair is the largest, long-lasting New Jersey event of the summer. This year’s free entertainment features fan-favorites and new entertainment, with something to please the entire family. Lively performers will have you on the edge of your seats with death-defying stunts, high wire jumps and magic routines. The Famous Racing Pigs consistently draw adoring fans.

Taking place over 18 days, the State Fair Meadowlands will be open weeknights with extended hours on weekends and July 4th. Parking is free every day for all Fairgoers.

The State Fair Meadowlands will have hundreds of rides. With the largest Kiddie Land in all of New Jersey, there are plenty of options for children and adults, alike. Also, don’t forget to try your skill at the tons of games that the Fair has to offer, like basketball free throws and water gun races. For more information, visit www.njfair.com

WILLIE NELSON’S OUTLAW MUSIC FESTIVAL

An additional 16 shows have been scheduled for the fall of 2023 as part of the 2023 Outlaw Music Festival Tour. The largest-ever Outlaw Tour continues the celebration of Willie’s milestone 90th birthday just as Willie wants it – on the road with his friends, family and beloved fans. These new, can’t miss shows feature an incredible lineup of artists including: Willie Nelson & Family, Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros. featuring The Wolfpack, The Avett Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Gov’t Mule, The String Cheese Incident, Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs, Los Lobos, Elizabeth Cook and Particle Kid.

Tickets for the general public are on sale at LiveNation.com. VIP packages, including great seats and exclusive festival merchandise, will be available. For complete details, visit www.citientertainment.com.

SUMMERSTAGE 2023 SEASON

City Parks Foundation announced the 2023 season of SummerStage,

They’ll be here on Sunday, September 17th at Forest Hills Stadium with Willie Nelson & Family, Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros. featuring The Wolfpack,The String Cheese Incident, Los Lobos and Particle Kid.

Photo credit: Pamela-Springsteen

Injuries dominated the start of the season for the Mets. The best closer in the majors, Edwin Diaz, was lost for the year when his right knee snapped while jumping up and down following Puerto Rico’s victory over the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. Shortly after that, starting pitcher Jose Quintana was lost for the first half of the season upon the discovery of a lesion on his rib. At the end of spring training, Justin Verlander endured a muscle strain in his pitching arm and had to be placed on the injured list. “That’s not the way I wanted to start my Mets career,” Verlander said in one of the great understatements of the year. Newly acquired catcher Omar Narvaez will miss at least two months with a high-grade calf strain.

Narvaez was expected to be the Mets starting catcher. His absence forced the elevation of highlytouted prospect Francisco Alvarez to Flushing. The feeling out of spring training was Alvarez needed more experience calling a game and working on his defense. There was also a fear he could be overmatched by big league pitching.

Sports Illustrated has published a coffee table book, “The New York Mets: Celebrating Six Decades of Amazin’ Baseball” (Triumph Books). There are fullsize color photos and SI articles on the Mets from over the past 60 years from great scribes as Steve Rushin, William Nack, and Tom Verducci.

The Yankees player getting the most attention in April was 21 year-old shortstop Anthony Volpe who grew up in Watchung, NJ. Volpe laughed when I asked him if he was commuting to Yankee Stadium from his parents’ house and said he had secured an apartment. He also told me he never had any interest in the medical

BOWLING

SIZZLING AT 17

The LIGBT, sponsored by Storm, presented the eighth of its Sport Shot Series at AMF Garden City Lanes, and crowned a new champion in the process. Nolan Herron, a 17-year-old high school junior from Fairfield, CT, won the $1,000 top prize by defeating second place finisher Tyger Folmar of Queens, 244-206. Folmar earned $550 for his runner-up position. Finishing in third place was Jack Kampf of Levittown, with a 191 worth $350.

Rounding out the top was Valerie DeLillo of North Massapequa, with a 189 worth $250.

The Garden City sport shot event was notable for a unique reason: It ranks as one of the lowest-scoring tournaments in LIGBT history. The “Boardwalk” pattern proved frustrating for most of the tournament entrants, as bowlers making spares won the biggest share of the prize fund. Another interesting fact: No one in the final shootout threw a clean game. Herron had only one open frame in the final, which was the key to his victory - when struck in the ninth frame while Folmar opened, it was clear that Herron was en route to securing his first LIGBT title.

sciences even though his dad is a urologist. Volpe would have gone to Vanderbilt had he not signed with the Yankees. Vanderbilt’s hitting coach and chief recruiter is former Mets outfielder, and Whitestone native, Mike Baxter who is still a mentor to Volpe.

Yogi Berra was one of the most beloved and greatest baseball players in history. The new movie

documentary, “It Ain’t Over,” produced by his oldest granddaughter, journalist Lindsay Berra looks back at his life, and conveys the message he was not taken as seriously as he should have been.

The LIGBT’s two-squad sport shot tournament drew 89 entries, paid out $4,435 in prize money, and saw 23 bowlers go to the cashing window. The side action awarded an additional $4,460, bringing the total event payout to $8,895. The “wild card” winner, the highest six-game series by a non-finalist, was earned by Rob Longiaru of Seaford, who tallied 1,246. There was only one 700 shot during the event (Nolan’s 721 series). The winner of the Storm Ball raffle was David Cincotta of North Babylon.

To view the results of the AMF Garden City event and to learn how to get involved with these enjoyable area tournaments, visit ligbtour.com

The LIGBT’s annual Memorial Day Major is slated

What really stuck in Lindsay Berra’s craw was the 2015 All-Star Game in Cincinnati where Yogi was ignored when the “greatest living players at the time” were honored on the field. She feels that the famous Yogi-isms such as “that restaurant is so crowded, nobody goes there anymore,” and “It ain’t over, til it’s over,” along with the Yogi Bear cartoon series (which he detested and never got a penny), contributed to an underestimation of his intelligence. In fact, Yogi Berra was one of the brightest and most successful people I can think of. He

By Bob Smith

announced that league play would continue for the 2023/2024 season for existing leagues at Herrill, which remains one of the most popular centers for league bowling in Nassau County. The center has also been a site for a vast amount of tournament play during the past decade. Look for a modern look and new features to take over the center as the renovations to the venerable bowling center continue.

Things are changing for bowlers in New Hyde Park, as Herrill Lanes was recently purchased by the Bowl 360 chain. Renovations have already begun on the bowling center – to be renamed Bowl 360 New Hyde Park - and it was recently

THIS SITE IS ALRIGHT

Getting bowling news in this area is pretty hard, especially considering the countless league players that roll in Long Island – so in that light we must bring attention to the Bowlage website, which offers news about area bowlers’ big accomplishments, center openings and closings, tournament news and announcements, bowling ball reviews, and stats, stats, and more stats. This site is a revelation and answers a crying need for more bowling news in this area (this column notwithstanding). A tip of our aging Dick Weber cap to this relatively new website, and which is a breath of fresh air in the area bowling scene. Read all about it at bowlage.com

Edwin Diaz

Justin Verlander

A NEW ERA IN NEW HYDE PARK

Nolan Herron

Photo courtesy LIGBT

Herrill Lanes

Photo by Bob Smith

By Lloyd Carroll

was a shrewd businessman; had a storybook marriage; lived until 90 and had all of his faculties; and was widely admired.

Another film which recently opened, “Sweetwater,” is a dramatization of the life of the first African-American to play for the New York Knicks, Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton. Clifton, portrayed by actor Everett Osborne, was a Harlem Globetrotters star, and was a solid player though far from a superstar in the early days of the Knicks. “Sweetwater” features a surprising number of big names as Richard Dreyfuss, Jeremy Piven, and Kevin Pollak, who steals the film as Globetrotters founder Abe Saperstein. Also getting significant screen time is Hofstra alum and West Hempstead native Todd Ant who portrays a radio play-by-play sportscaster.

The attention the recent NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament received has certainly given a lift to the WNBA. Its commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, held a press conference before last month’s WNBA Draft. She

spoke about how increased revenues for the league are leading to increased player compensation, as well as more air charter service for teams.

I asked Commissioner Engelbert if she was angry at how many conservative media outlets seemed to be high-fiving Vladimir Putin after he took WNBA star Brittney Griner hostage last year, and then were upset when she was released without fellow American detainee, Paul Whelan. I then added it was curious their voices were silent when Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested as a spy by Putin’s thugs. She was careful to avoid criticizing right-wing media and told me the WNBA is working with groups trying to free Paul Whelan. “Russia isn’t the only country holding Americans against their will,” she added.

AEW star Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known simply by his initials, MJF, received the key to Oyster Bay Township last month from its supervisor, Joe Saladino.

Two days later MJF serenaded the crowd at UBS Arena with a terrific version of “Pennies From Heaven” backed by the Mike Rogers Orchestra at the midpoint of the AEW “Dynamite” card. He did a nice job paying tribute to Louis Prima, and showed he can carry a tune.

Last month’s New York Auto Show still has not gotten all of the vehicle manufacturers back who were there every year prior

to the pandemic, but Toyota had a sizable presence. It had one of the cars driven by NASCAR star Martin Truex, Jr. on display.

CBS Sports has launched a new network devoted 24/7 to soccer, Golazo, which can be seen on streamers Pluto TV and Paramount Plus.

A bat used by Babe Ruth sold for nearly $2 million at a Hunt Auction in Philadelphia last month.

The arrival of spring means golf fashions can once again be worn. CON.

STRUCT is an apparel company which makes stylish and comfortable polo shirts, pants, and windbreakers from recycled materials as part of its Green Collection. Looking good and helping the environment is a win-win.

Photo credit: Lloyd Carroll

Photo credit: Lloyd Carroll

Photo credit: Hunt Auctions

Photo credit: CBS Sports

CASINOS

Good Times Music Calendar

Your Guide To Local Events

MUSTANG GIVEAWAY AT RESORTS WORLD

The only casino in New York City wants one lucky winner to drive off in style. Resorts World New York City is holding a Ford Mustang Giveaway on Saturday, May 27. Every day this month, Genting Rewards Club Members who earn 100 points gaming throughout the property will receive one entry for the drawing for a 2023 Ford Mustang Premium Coupe. Bonus entries are earned every Monday in May and double entries are earned every Sunday. All of the entries can be dropped at the drum in front of Bar 360 beginning at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 27. The winner will be announced at 7:00 p.m.

You can always expect a gaming and entertainment experience you just can’t find anywhere else in the five boroughs, with free shows by the best local bands and DJs every Friday and Saturday night at Bar 360. Resorts World just started offering a free shuttle from the Jamaica Bus Depot, plus it’s always free to park for anyone who drives. For a complete list of entertainment and promotions, visit rwnewyork.com.

DONNY OSMOND COMING TO HARD ROCK

Donny Osmond has made it official with the announcement of his summer 2023 U.S. Tour, including a show at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Sunday, July 30, at 7 p.m.

Donny Osmond has been a singer, actor, triple-threat television series host (talk show, game show, variety show), best-selling author (his autobiography entered the UK bestseller chart at #1), commercial spokesman, motivational speaker, and even a racecar driver.

Tickets go on sale Friday, April 21 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change.

FRANKIE VALLI AT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA

Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons — one of the most beloved groups in Pop music history — make their return to Mohegan Sun Arena at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 2nd.

The iconic Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American Pop music legend. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ’63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic moves such as The Deer Hunter, Dirty Dancing, Mrs. Doubtfire, Conspiracy Theory, and The Wanderers. As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s Jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s Hip-Hop makeover.

Tickets are $35 and are on sale at ticketmaster.com. Tickets will also be available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability.

Gotcha

MAY

FRIDAY, JULY 21

DIRTY HEADS

GOLDFINGER

BADFISH • BALLYHOO!

OOGEE WAWA

Cliffdiver • Roots Foundation

Project Vibe • Dudley Music

Half Breeds • This Good Robot

Harbour • Jahstix

PHIL

& PALMETTO MOTEL

TAUK • BRANDON “TAZ” NIEDERAUER

MJT • Foster Europe • Stanton Anderson Band

Electrix • Dave Diamond Band • Robinson Treacher

Sailin’ Shoes • Adam & the Metal Hawks

Boomer Brothers • Signs of Progress

Good Times Music Calendar

FREE LISTING FOR YOUR BAND

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT THE 37TH MUSICIAN’S TALENT & SERVICES DIRECTORY

Published

Deadline

Good Times is compiling its most complete listing of New York’s performing musicians and bands. If you’re a performer or if you have a band, this annual special issue is your chance to get noticed - and best of all, It’s free!

to A&R reps & indie management executives –plus distributed at musician’s retail locations such as studios and musical instrument stores.

FREE LISTING FOR YOUR BAND

Description of your act:

Name of act:

Description (25 word maximum):

If you absolutely had to choose a single broad musical category to help visitors and new club goers find out about your act, in which would it best fit (Check only one, yes ONLY one.)

Chamber / Classical / Vocal / Solo / Duo

qCover Band

qHip-Hop / Rap

qEDM qTribute Band

Contact Person for bookings/gigs (mandatory!):

Name: ____________________________________________________________

Phone #: __________________________________________________________

e-mail address: _____________________________________________________ web address: _______________________________________________________

Optional: Add impact with a photo or logo!

ARE YOU INCLUDING ARTWORK? ($25 CHARGE)

Your talent directory listing is free, but you can make it STAND OUT from the other bands’ listings by including your bands photo or logo for only $25. It will appear above your listing.

Just enclose the artwork along with $25 and your listing, Photos must be a ‘horizontal frame’ shot. (Like this one)

We cannot return any photos or artwork submitted, and titles may be edited for clarity.

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO GOOD TIMES.

q Yes run my mug shot. I have enclosed 25 measly dollars

Confidential info: (required for verification purposes only)

Name: ________________________________________ Phone ____________

Mailing address: ___________________________________________________

Booking agent: ____________________________________________________

q I would like information on how to advertise - please send me info

SEND IN YOUR ENTRY:

Check to make sure you’ve filled out all the required items (marked), and if desired attach a photo or logo with $25 payment.

SEND

ELECTRIC AVENUE PROFILE: ANDREW SULLO

him about helping a band that needed booking and promotion...and so the empire was launched.

He got them gigs and enjoyed it so much that he quit his regular job and moved into promotion full time. He embraced original bands in particular although he catered to all genres.

It was two and a half years before he started to make money, and then he started to promote at the famous Voodoo Lounge, where he started to book national acts.

He was doing mainly shows on Long Island, then in 2010 he became a regional promoter, running 1-2 shows per month with 3-4 bands on each show.

HELP WANTED

CINEMA ARTS CENTER are currently looking to hire Theatre Ushers, Cafe Associates, Box Office Associates & Managers, as well as a new Technical Director/Head Projectionist to oversee the technical aspects of our three theaters, projection booths, and café. Go To, https://cinemaartscentre.org/about-us/job-opportunities/to apply (TFN)

BURGEROLOGY LOCATIONS are looking for help. We are looking for manager positions, servers, busboys, and bartenders.Please email Burgerology.rvc@gmail.com. (TFN)

MUSIC STORE in Mastic looking for full & pt help. Great Perks (815) 666-6772 Joe (TFN)

MUSICIANS AVAILABLE

GUITARIST, looking for Blues Rock Jams. 67 years old. (631) 462-5987 (1325)

DRUMMER, 38 Actual good drummer seeking non-horrible band. E-mail actualgooddrummer@ gmail.com (1325)

CHICAGO BLUES, harmonica vocalist looking to play 516-398-8155 nasau County Preferred (1325)

MUSICIANS WANTED

You have to give Andrew Sullo credit. He loves what he’s doing and he keeps on doing it.

As head of Power of Music Promotions, he’s staged hundreds of shows throughout our area featuring local talent. He always has been a big believer in supporting local talent.

Andrew went to school for journalism, where a friend approached

Part of the reason for his success is that he made great friends with band members, and they were like an extended family. His favorite music is early ‘70’s hard rock and his favorite band is Black Sabbath.

Andrew is still going strong. He is a true local success story and part of the reason why Long Island is such a hotbed for band activity with hundreds of shows a month.

You can reach Andrew at productions1@hotmail.com

FEMALE SINGER who can also DANCE wanted for New Orleans style BAND for VIDEO & GIGS (Brooklyn L.I. Based) Call or text Dave (917) 6224578 (1313-1316)

UPRIGHT BASS PLAYER AND PECUSSIONIST OR CAJUN PLAYER wanted for Acoustic Trio with GUITAR BOSSA RHYTHMS SWING BLUES

AMERICANA originals with a RETRO FEEL A LA HOT CLUB Dan Hicks etc. Text or voicemail Chuxley (646) 221-0088 (1325)

MALE/FEMALE VOCALISTS NEEDED for 70’s/80’s top 40’s dance band: we are a reunited . 4 piece cover band concentrating on 70’s and 80’s pop and dance music. We play live along with additional recorded instrumentation for a very professional full sound. We are looking to start

gigging by this coming summer in bars, clubs, parties, etc. We need really good male and female singers to do songs by hall and oats, marvin gaye, donna summer, rondstadt, etc. The band is great and any musician would be proud to be part of it. Call or text: frank 631-617-9181 suffolk (1310)

WHO WANTS TO JAM? Guitarist/singer seeks all other instruments for fun jams. I know lots lots of jam band stuff and classic rock, too. Based in Huntington, I don’t mind driving to a convenient studio for all – give a call! Rob (516) 672-3957. (1325)

FOR SALE

PERFECT FOR MUSICIAN: Console piano with flute, guitar, trombone, clarinet, effects and many more. Needs minor key repairs - Call (516) 3250425 between 9am-7pm. (1318)

ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR SALE: $239,000 Prime location - Westbury. New kitchen appliances. Text owner 516-360-4238 (13191322)

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A Publicity & Marketing Incubater Services Including Publicity, Social Media Artist Management Booking & More Rick@magneticvine.com

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By Richard Joseph Branciforte

Hope every has been enjoying the spring weather and getting ready for summer to start rolling in soon. There’s a ton of great shows coming up in the next few weeks that each and everyone of you should be checking out! On May 19 at Avant Gardner we have Charlotte de Witte coming through and bringing her minimal and acid techno vibes to the city. Charlotte de Witte has been on a meteoric rise to fame, with one of her most recent accomplishments headlining Tomorrowland. She is a force to be reckoned with and brings the heat.

If that isn’t your style, you can check out the melodic dubstep prowess of Seven Lions at Brooklyn Mirage on May 26 or 27. Seven Lions is well known for packing out venues to put this unique style of dubstep on display. He’ll take you on a journey with music that will hit you in the feels and then quickly brings it back up to heartpounding and high intensity dubstep. His shows ebb and flow and give the listener a full experience every time.

To keep things on that note, there are some heavy hitters making their way into NYC as well. Iconic dubstep producer Flux Pavilion will be stopping by Pier 40 on June 3. Flux Pavilion has been in the game for quite some time and is well known for his genre defining hits such as “Gold Dust” and “I Can’t Stop”. He’s only been growing since those days in the early 2010s and does a phenomenal job of blending old and new together for a stunning performance with quite a bit of nostalgia.

Recent up and comer Ray Volpe will be at Brooklyn Mirage on June 8 and we already know he leaves it all on the table when he performs, making crowds go the hardest they’ve probably ever gone.

For those looking to get deep into the wubs, Of The Trees and Notlo

will be coming through Brooklyn Mirage on June 9. A rising king of downtempo bass, Of The Trees gets deep in the weird and wubbly sounds combined with top tier visuals to truly transport you into another dimension. His sounds often have a nature feel to them and are both calming and intriguingly different. He’s been making quite an ascension in the scene and this is definitely a top show on my list. In that realm of bass music.

Rezz will be headlining at Avant Gardner on June 9 as well. There are tough decisions to be made here. Rezz is one of my all time favorites and brings dark techno energy to her shows. She mixes in bass as well for a varied experience hitting multi tempo and style ranges. Another notable part of the show is her trippy visuals which draw you in and leaving your soul gone from your body.

Lots of new music has dropped recently and I want to focus on one artist that is going to be huge soon. I’m talking about none other than The Sponges. They have locked into a niche in the EDM scene, producing house music with a heavy influence. I look at them as the Griz of house music. Their songs always hit in just the right way and they bring that funk into driving house rhythms.

They just released their new EP “Love. Death. Funk?” on April 21 and it’s been on constantly since that date. From that album, “Funkemusik” really brings the energy for me. There are lots of samples all over the place and that funky guitar can be heard throughout the track, making you wonder what decade you’re in. “Do U Wanna?” hits home hard with various brass and saxophone to spice things up a bit and give the impression of a live band feel while always making sure those kicks and hi-hats keep on going throughout the song. It makes you want to dance and not stop until

the sun comes up. I really love what this group has been doing with this sound and have been patiently waiting until I can see them live. That’ll be a show for the history books without a doubt.

A notable mention for new music is Illenium’s new self titled album released on April 28. Illenium has quickly risen to superstar level, selling out stadium shows around the country. His produced albums have a raw and emotional pull and is some of the most beautiful work I’ve experienced in the genre. When seeing him live, he completely throws the viewer for a loop by dropping everything from house, trance, dubstep, trap, and future bass. Many artists have given Illenium praise for his production abilities and how he is able to put together such an amazing live performance. This is one that should be on your radar to check out. That’s all for this issue! Feel free to reach out to me at richiegtechno@gmail.com with any comments or suggestions. Until then, keep raging my friends!

WOMEN WHO ROCK

SHANIA TWAIN RELEASES ‘QUEEN OF ME

Shania Twain presents the Royal Edition the Deluxe Version of her new album, Queen Of Me, out now via Republic Nashville. She delivers the definitive edition of Queen Of Me with five extra tracks. Among the additional material, she serves up two new originals - “Bone Dry” and “Wanted Man.”

Of “Bone Dry,” Shania says, “I wrote Bone Dry alone on the acoustic guitar and the song is about having everything in the world but still feeling empty. I guess it’s about whatever you want it to be about as the listener but there is some reading between the lines with this song!

Shania also invited hip-hop country trailblazer Breland to accompany her on a dynamic reimagining of “Inhale/ Exhale AIR.”

She completed the collection with a striking and spirited acoustic rendition of “Queen of Me” and the buzzing “Giddy Up!” (Malibu Babie Remix).

LAURA MARANO “BOUNDARIES”

Laura Marano released her latest single “Boundaries,” via her own label, Flip Phone Records. The track gives listeners a lesson in creating boundaries to preserve individual happiness. Over the melodic and buoyant baseline, Marano reflects on struggling to be the best version of herself when being spread too thin.

Marano additionally released an accompanying video, which showcases the as multiple versions of herself, using Barbie-like dolls. Fans will recognize some of Marano’s most notable looks reused in the video.

While Marano has portrayed a variety of characters on the big screen, her most raw form of self-expression can only be witnessed when she steps on the stage. The term “triple threat” is often thrown around with the assumption that one craft likely trumps the other, but Marano has managed to strike a rare balance between all facets of her career, all while building a fan base that feels more like a family.

LAUREN SMITH WITH GAYLE & EM BEIHOLD

Multi-platinum singer-songwriter and generational talent Lauren Spencer Smith released her latest single “Fantasy,” featuring GAYLE and Em Beihold. The energetic pop anthem showcases the Vancouver Island native’s booming vocals about overcoming a toxic relationship while GAYLE and Beihold echo the same sentiment. In the video, the three artists’ chemistry is undeniable as they embody the power of female friendship.“Fantasy’’ is available via Island Records/Republic Records.

LAUREN DAIGLE SELF-TITLED ALBUM

Today, two-time GRAMMY Award-winning singersongwriter Lauren Daigle releases standout track “New,” the latest offering from her forthcoming self-titled album, Lauren Daigle, due out May 12, 2023 via Atlantic Records/ Centricity Music.

“New” follows the release of soulful cut “Waiting” and current single “Thank God I Do,” both of which the multiplatinum artist debuted live on The Today Show last month.

Lauren Daigle marks a new creative chapter for the Louisiana-born artist. Led by GRAMMY-winning producer Mike Elizondo and featuring co-writes with award-winning songwriters, including Natalie Hemby, Shane McAnally, Amy Wadge, Jason Ingram, Lori McKenna and Jon Greene, the multi-faceted artist created a body of work which showcases her stunning and powerful voice, rich storytelling and incredible musicality.

KARI FAUX REAL B*TCHES DON’T DIE!

Little Rock, Arkansas artist Kari Faux announced her forthcoming album REAL B*TCHES DON’T DIE! due May 26th via drink sum wtr. The 13-track album is an ode to Kari’s Southern origins and includes features from acts like the late Gangsta Boo (Three 6 Mafia), Mississippi’s Big K.R.I.T., Jazz Cartier, TheMIND and Devin the Dude.

REAL B*TCHES DON’T DIE! was predominantly produced by Kari’s partner and Grammy Award winning artist Phoelix, with additional credits from 2forwOyNE and Park Ave. The forthcoming album also includes the new single “MAKE A WISH.”

Additionally, Faux is set to support Big Boi for a string of dates beginning in Philadelphia on May 29th, before heading to Brooklyn on May 30th and Washington, D.C. on June 1st. Kari will also be performing at Summerfest in Milwaukee on June 28th along with her home state of Arkansas on September 22nd at Format Festival alongside Digable Planets, LCD Soundsystem, Little Simz, Jamie XX and more.

SUSANNA HOFFS’ THE DEEP END

For her latest album The Deep End, Susanna Hoffs teamed with legendary producer Peter Asher (Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor) to record musicians that have been speaking to her in recent years: Billie Eilish, Joy Oladokun, Brandy Clark, Holly Humberstone, and Ed Sheeran, alongside her old favorites from Squeeze, Colin Blunstone, Yazoo and more.

Hear Susanna’s radical reinvention of The Rolling Stones’ “Under My Thumb” paired with a dance remix by Oak Felder.

“I’ve listened to that song on repeat since it came out in the mid-’60,” says Hoffs. “ I had an epiphany when I really thought about what the song is about, and it ignited this idea to do my own spin on it—to change the gender and see how it felt. What if the roles are/were reversed and the boy is under her thumb? It was exhilarating to give it a new spin, to flip it on its head, or on its ass. It’s a sassy, irreverent song, so it was extremely pleasurable to turn the tables.” Hoffs is backed by Waddy Wachtel on guitar, Ledisi on background vocals, bassist Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel on drums, Jeff Alan Ross on vibes, with a string quartet arrangement by Steve Aho.

Susanna Hoffs

Photo by Shervin Lainez

METAL

MARTY STUART ALBUM “ALTITUDE”

Five-time GRAMMY winner, Country Music Hall of Famer and AMA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Marty Stuart announced his 20th Annual Late Night Jam will return to Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Wednesday, June 7. The show, presented by Stuart’s Congress of Country Music, features a lineup curated by Stuart himself that will feature performances by Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives, Joe Walsh, John Oates,The Del McCoury Band, Sierra Ferrell, Chapel Hart, Connie Smith, Gary Mule Deer, Jake Worthington, and The Grand Ole Opry Square Dancers. In the spirit of all Late Night Jams past, surprise guests are to be expected. Also, Stuart released the official video for his single “Country Star,” from his forthcoming album Altitude.Recorded in Nashville with his longtime band The Fabulous Superlatives – Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson and Chris Scruggs –the collection finds Stuart picking up where he left off on 2017’s Way Out West, exploring a cosmic country landscape populated by dreamers and drifters, misfits and angels, honky-tonk heroes and lonesome lovers. Written primarily on the road, the collection was inspired in large by Stuart’s 2018 tour supporting Byrds co-founders Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman, who reunited for the 50th anniversary of their seminal Sweetheart Of The Rodeo album.

ALT-COUNTRY STAR TANNER USREY

Rising country troubadour Tanner Usrey is celebrating his signing to Atlantic Records with release of his label debut single, “Give It Some Time,” available now at all DSPs and streaming services.

Co-written by Usrey and producer Beau Bedford (Jonathan Tyler, The Texas Gentlemen), “Give It Some Time” threads dusty acoustic guitar and unfiltered lyrics against an organ-laden beat, building towards an emotionally charged guitar solo as scorching as the Texas-born singer, songwriter, and guitarist’s pleading vocal delivery.

An electrifying and energetic live presence who played over 180 shows in 2022 alone, Usrey will continue his non-stop touring with an upcoming series of live dates that will see him on the road through the summer. For complete details and ticket availability, please visit www.tannerusreymusic.com/tour-dates.

THE DRYES HIT THE ROAD WITH JO DEE MESSINA

Country duo The Dryes announced they will join chart-topping, GRAMMY-nominated country artist Jo Dee Messina for a handful of dates as direct support on her national “Heads Carolina Tails California” tour. Riding the wave of their latest, uplifting single, “Who Needs To Hear This” the pair continue to rise as a leading act in the country space with the power to stay for the long haul as they solidify themselves as an emotionally gripping live act. Making music together for over a decade, Derek and Katelyn Drye knew early in their relationship that their purpose was to write, create and perform together. Launching their career in 2018, the couple’s debut single “Amen” found immediate praise from Rolling Stone Country where Jon Freeman raved: “The Dryes sing their origin story in the slinky ‘Amen,’ mingling potent sexuality with the salvation of love.”

Continuing to set the tone for their career, The Dryes shared “War,” a song of striking and unique vulnerability based upon Derek Dryes’ personal dealings with his mother’s suicide when he was a child; setting them apart from their peers as they display an unmatched authenticity and openness. The track was paired with an incredibly touching music video spotlighted by CMT and now logs over seven million streams.

VIRGIN STEELE NEW STUDIO ALBUM

At a time when cultural innovation is being side-lined like never before and many unusual forms of music are succumbing to the temptation of the more commercially lucrative mainstream, VIRGIN STEELE are the shining silver lining.

For over 40 years, mastermind David DeFeis has kept one of the most imaginative bands in the power metal genre on track with his excellent songwriting and charismatic voice. At the same time, DeFeis has never stopped evolving as a composer, musician and producer, updating his symphonic-tinged sound with exciting new influences.

With his current album, ‘The Passion Of Dionysus’, DeFeis surpasses himself in his unbridled creativity. Eight years after the acclaimed studio opus, ‘Nocturnes Of Hellfire & Damnation’ (2015), DeFeis` brilliant signature maneuvers the album through a gripping parable about control and freedom, creating another highlight of the VIRGIN STEELE catalog.

On ‘The Passion Of Dionysus’, DeFeis tells the epic struggle between the twin forces of control/restraint and freedom/release, as well as dealing with the question of “whether or not there is room in society for the irrational, the wild, the letting-go aspects of ourselves.”

ARMORED

SAINT TOUR WITH WASP

Heavy metal icons ARMORED SAINT will return to the stage this August as direct support to W.A.S.P.! The 40th Never Stops World Tour 2023 begins August 4th in San Luis Obispo, California.The plan is to go to cities they didn’t do on the last run with a few exceptions of some places where we they’ll be returning. There will be some cities that ARMORED SAINT hasn’t played in many, many years as well as some they’ve never played in! They’ll be hitting our area on August 26th at Hammerstein Ballroom.

RATT’S CLASSIC ALBUMS RELEASED

All albums feature the classic line up of Stephen Pearcy (vocals), Warren DeMartini (guitars), Robbin Crosby (guitars), Juan Croucier (bass/vocals), and Bobby Blotzer (drums).

Formed in Los Angeles, RATT was featured as an unsigned act on Uncle Joe Benson’s Local Licks Drive Time Show on KLOS-FM. This was their first time on radio and led to their signing to Atlantic Records.

RATT exploded on to the national scene in 1984 with the release of ‘Out Of The Cellar.’ Featuring an undeniable hook and legendary music video, lead single “Round And Round” hit #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, while ‘Out Of The Cellar’ reached #7 on the Billboard Top 200 and was certified triple platinum. Two more charting singles followed with “Back For More” and “Wanted Man”. RATT started the tour as an opening act, but by the end of the tour had climbed to arena headliner.

Photo by Alysse Gafkjen

Photo by Trenton Johnson

Photo by Sean Hagwell

Photo by Travis Shinn

BARRY MANILOW AT RADIO CITY

Barry Manilow will perform five consecutive nights at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday, May 31; Thursday, June 1; Friday, June 2; Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4, at 8:00 p.m. each night. These shows will mark Barry Manilow’s 35th - 39th lifetime performances at Radio City, and his first time returning to the venue since 2012.

Barry Manilow - a GRAMMY, Tony, and Emmy Award-winning music icon whose success is a benchmark in popular music will perform an array of his hit songs, including “Mandy,” “I Write the Songs,” “Looks Like We Made It,” “Can’t Smile Without You,” and “Copacabana (At the Copa).” Having sold more than 85 million albums worldwide, Barry Manilow is one of the world’s all-time best selling recording artists.

Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available at the Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre box offices.

HIPPIE GLORY OF 1960S SAN FRANCISCO

Mercury Records released A Night At The Family Dog (1970), Go Ride The Music and West Pole (1969), three psychedelic trips down memory lane as a 2 DVD package, complete with new artwork and ‘60s-styled poster. All three films were originally produced and created as groundbreaking television documentaries by Ralph J. Gleason [1917-1975].

A Night At The Family Dog held on February 4, 1970, featured the brightest three lights of the Bay Area, Jefferson Airplane, Grateful Dead and Santana. These three bands would define a scene that had the whole world wondering what exactly was going on in the Haight-Ashbury section of San Francisco.

The San Francisco Sound, as it became to be known, was a montage of shrieking guitars and bold now-classic Acid Rock. Go Ride The Music is a stunning document of Jefferson Airplane and Quicksilver Messenger Service (a band destined for stardom who short-circuited their own success). There are also cameo appearances from David Crosby and Jerry Garcia.

NATALIE MERCHANT’S KEEP YOUR COURAGE

Keep Your Courage, the new album from Natalie Merchant, is out on Nonesuch Records. Produced by Merchant, the new LP is the artist’s ninth solo studio album, and the first of all-new material since 2014’s self-titled record.

The record’s lead single “Big Girls” is out now, joining the previously released “Tower of Babel” and “Come On, Aphrodite” featuring Abena KoomsonDavis (Resistance Revival Chorus).Keep Your Courage features additional contributions from Celtic folk group Lúnasa, Syrian virtuoso clarinetist Kinan Azmeh and jazz trombonist Steve Davis. There are lush orchestrations by seven composers throughout, including: Gabriel Kahane, Stephen Barber, Colin Jacobsen, and Megan Gould. The new record comprises nine original songs by Merchant as well as an interpretation of “Hunting the Wren” by Ian Lynch of the Irish band Lankum. The vinyl LP edition includes four bonus tracks from earlier albums, previously unreleased on vinyl.

MOBY GRAPE’S LEWIS SHARES “FRANK ZAPPA’S GHOST”

Peter Lewis of the legendary Moby Grape shares “Frank Zappa’s Ghost,” a jazzy, trippy nightmare from his upcoming album Imagination, out June 16th.

That comes through crystal clear on Imagination, a new collection of singular song craft that could only spring from the creative consciousness of Peter Lewis, founding member of the legendary San Francisco rock group Moby Grape. Consider the driving, chiming “Path of Least Resistance,” as radio ready as a rocker can be despite its fierce philosophizing, and “If I Just Had You,” which spins incandescent longing into perfect doo/wop. Delicate guitars and lilting, uplifting harmonies are the warm embrace of “When You Come Back to Me” while pensive piano carries the earnestly heartening “Without You.” Impossible to peg, Lewis also lets loose with a jazzy, trippy nightmare (“Frank Zappa’s Ghost”).

With his voice in fine fettle, Lewis serves each song—bright and delicate here, gravelly and aching there, even roaring when required—through lyrical themes that ponder mortality versus eternity, illusion versus reality. The 10-track long player is his second release on OMAD Records, a follow-up to 2019’s The Road to Zion, and it marks a deeper collaboration with John DeNicola, main man of the bespoke label.

NILS LOFGREN “MOUNTAINS”

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame E Street

Band member, Crazy Horse member and solo artist Nils Lofgren announced his new album Mountains will be released on July 21. The album’s first single “Ain’t The Truth Enough,” featuring Ringo Starr on drums, was written in the wake of the January 6th insurrection and reckons with the ways that misinformation and demagoguery can tear families apart and silo us in our own realities.

“Ain’t No Truth Enough” features performances by Nils Lofrgren (lap steel, organ, vibraphone, vocals), Ringo Starr (drums), Kevin McCormick (bass) and Cindy Mizelle (harmony vocal). Written and recorded at home in Scottsdale, AZ, the 10-song collection is lush and soulful, mixing rock and roll muscle with blues grit and gospel transcendence as it grapples with a world where pride and selfishness are treated as virtues and the power-hungry are rewarded for their greed and shortsightedness. The result is delivered with the help of an all-star cast of friends including Ringo Starr, Neil Young, Cindy Mizelle, the Howard Gospel Choir, Ron Carter and David Crosby.

HOT TUNA ON TOUR

For over 50 years Hot Tuna, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, have brought a wealth of emotions to their music through deep perceptions and tremendous talent. Members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Grammy recipients, they are always injecting fresh energy into their sound with constant improvisation taking their musical horizons further. Every note is a unique expression of that very moment!

“Guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and bassist Jack Casady are without question in the discussion about who are among the greatest musicians; each has distinguished himself by developing a style that is easy to pick out and that others often try to imitate. The duo uses music to speak a language they seemingly invented, yet cannily allow the rest of us in on the exhilarating dialogues.” - The Art Fuse They will appear in a final concert as Electric Hot Tuna July 20th at The Great South Bay Music Festival, Patchogue.

Photo by Carl Schultz

Photo by Jake DeNicola