Art Music Culture Revolution

Erin Hanna Art Student and Singer/ set to 14 make waves at Troy River Fest Tony Lindsay New solo project for Hudson Valley native 18 and former Santana singer

May 2019 Page 3 Music Art Culture Revolution Plugging In the Unplugged When 12-strings, mandolins, violins and MOOG Minitherimins attack: Acoustic Trauma and its neverending quest to redefine the words ‘Acoustic’ and ‘Trauma’

Photo by Jessica Maceli (l - r) Patrick McNulty, Paul Nunzio Maceli By Liam Sweeny a little bit of everything else, see yourself as an acoustic set, or Acoustic Trauma has been blow- was that a crown given? hen I was jamming ing minds from the cradle to the Paul: It’s actually an inter- out, my sound stage cap and gown. esting story. To give you some Wwishes and wah ped- I sit with Paul to mull over the background, my early influences al dreams in tow, I’d heard of finer points of interstellar traffic included , mostly pro- Acoustic Trauma. I’d never seen law. gressive rock and heavy metal. Tales from the Door ...... 20 them, but I’d heard a bootleg RRX: You really push the In my teen years, I quit playing Observations tape, so I knew what they were envelope when it comes to an music to go to college for busi- and Ramblings ..27 laying down. That was in the late acoustic sound. In fact, I don’t ness, knowing that the only way Liats’ Almanac ...28 90s, and Acoustic Trauma has think many people hearing you I would ever get back into mu- Uncovered ...... 30 been laying it long since I laid my for the first time would have the sic was if I was to do something guitar to rest. word ‘acoustic’ as first choice original that no one else was do- With Patrick McNulty on bass, - there’s so much more in the ing. Fast-forward to my twenties, Jason Ellenbogen on drums, and sound. When you started jam- in the midst of trying to find a Paul Nunzio Maceli on… well, ming out, maybe pre- ’97, did you Continued on Page 4... Page 4 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 3... folk tune that everyone already that song!” I thought to myself. bass guitar. It can get pretty loud loved. No one was plugging an Of course, I didn’t worry about it and the term “acoustic trauma” hobby better than my unhealthy acoustic guitar into an amplifi- because I thought it would be a describes damage done to the barhopping, I was hanging out at er and putting it through effect stinker, but lo and behold: it was ear as a result of loud sounds. I my apartment with my Uncle Pe- pedals and turning it up, let alone a hit! In addition, it had become a thought it was pretty smart. ter (bassist at the time of the funk having the nerve to jump in front trend and EVERYONE began un- RRX: I have a good sense of rap band Shootyz Groove) show- of a kick ass bass/drum rhythm plugging their songs! Now I was what you’re playing in your songs, ing off a 12-string acoustic guitar section to blow people away. That on a mission to defy the mass- instrument-wise, but it’s a sense that I just purchased. I started sound was right up my alley! That es and alas, in 1996, I was back – I could be way off. I think any- banging away on it as if it was an also happened to be around the playing music again. By 1998, I one just hearing you on the radio electric guitar and he said to me same time that had had incorporated the violin into or on their laptop or phone might “hey, you’re playing that thing released the unplugged version of the mix and then the mandolin. want to know, so would you mind like it’s an electric guitar! You’re his energetic 70’s hit “.” The As of lately, I also whip out the giving us a sneak peak of your in- not supposed to do that!” I asked electric version of “Layla” was one MOOG Theremini (modeled after gredients list? What instruments “does it sound good?” and he said, my favorite songs of all time and the MOOG Theremin) because it’s go into an ‘Acoustic Trauma’ “Yeah! It’s different!” So, that when I heard it all toned down just so much fun! Plus it’s differ- jambalaya? started the wheels moving in my and quiet, I wanted to puke into ent. I mean, how many people do Paul: The Acoustic Trauma head because in the 1990s, the my shirt! Especially after what you see jamming on a Theremin jambalaya consists of a drum only thing you heard from anyone I felt I had just discovered about on a rock and roll stage? kit (always played by a rockin’ with an acoustic guitar in their the energy of the acoustic gui- RRX: When I heard the in- drummer), a driving but funky hand was an “unplugged” version tar. “No! You can’t do that! You struments you all play, I would’ve bass guitar, and depending on of a rockin’ song or a sweet little don’t have to sit down and ruin expected an atmospheric kind of the song, I am proud to be the music, but that’s really not what chef that decides whether a vi- you guys are laying down. Less a olin, acoustic guitar, mandolin, misty morning, more a tempest. and/or MOOG Theremini is the Is that why you guys named your- lead meat of the song. Sprinkle selves Acoustic Trauma? Is it a a little vocal expression over that cool name or a warning label? and voila: the delicious power trio Paul: Ha! It’s both! The name known as Acoustic Trauma! Tickets Available on BrownPaperTickets.com serves as a definitive pun because RRX: AT has been on scene “TROY, NY’S HIDDEN VENUE” even though the lead instruments since ’97, so twenty-two years. So are acoustic, they are plugged you’ve had a chance to see the lo- into a powerful amplifier to keep cal music scene evolve, and your- up with the drums and electric selves along with it. Have you all

periencePublished by Imperial Broadcasting Monthly in conjunction with RadioradioX.com.

Art Fredette Liam Sweeny Ralph Renna Publisher Editor-In-Chief Music Editor Creative Director

Mailing Address: 35D Saratoga Avenue, Waterford, NY 12188 675 RIVER ST, TROY, NY 12180 | (518) 272-9740 Email: [email protected] WWW.THEHANGERONTHEHUDSON.COM Phone: (518) 326-1673 May 2019 Page 5 Music Art Culture Revolution ever had to take a year or two off internet came along and changed rang but everyone seemed pretty in all that time? Have you ever everything. There are websites to comfortable calling it that af- New to RadioradioX had a chance to be surprised by show off music, photos and where ter the first private party, so the something happening to the 518 we play out. We could get more name just stuck. We pretty much Band of Horses- The scene? exposure on YouTube and you can Funeral had our own live venue with Paul: There is so much tal- share whose videos on your so- full lights, fog, sound and peo- Silversun Pickups- Lazy ent in the area, as well as people cial media, which is where most Eyes ple! Our friends and fans always who are warriors of promoting people are on these days. There is came to those. It was wonderful! Interpol- Evil the arts. Like the X, for example. easy access to get music and in- It became such an event, that we Iron Maiden -The Trooper What you guys are doing to sup- formation on a band now. decided to record our live CD/ port the independent arts is what RRX: A long time ago, I heard The Replacements- Black DVD there. As for the “legend- Diamond keeps a scene like this going. It’s about the Trauma House. Whis- ary” stuff…I’m saving that for the humbling and I know that we ap- pers, really, maybe legends when Michael Martin Murphy- book. As of current, we had a par- Geronimo’s Cadillac preciate it! That’s the surprise: we kicked the bottom shelf stuff. ty in 2018 and I am happy to say there are always people who care You also have a live from Jane’s Addiction- Mountain that if things line up they way we Song about and cherish artistic creativ- the Trauma House. So, the fire’s want, there will more of them. ity. From venues to bars to spe- going, and the legend is yours to Sharon Jones and The Dap Acoustic Trauma will be per- Kings- Searching for a New cial events to charities, there is a tell; what was, or is, the Trauma forming at the Flyday Music Fes- Day support for the local arts. House? tival at the Blackthorne Resort Kongos- Come with Me It has been an interesting Paul: The Trauma House in East Durham, NY, May 17th Now journey throughout the years in is pretty much my house and - 18th. Hayes Carll- Days Like the 518. When AT started, the Acoustic Trauma headquarters These big deal was making a CD and for practicing, writing, hanging To read the full article, please Hamish Anderson -Break- getting your songs played on the and house parties, thus the name visit radioradiox.com and click ing Down radio, even if it was just on the “The Trauma House.” At first on the ‘Xperience’ tab. Freddie Scott- You Got local half-hour show. We had I didn’t like the way the name What I Need radio stations supporting lo- Urge Overkill- Sister cal bands and that was really Havanna cool. They made us feel like rock Lee Moses - Hey Joe stars. Then there was the re- fIREHOSE- For The Singer gional television show Sounding of REM Board, which showcased a differ- ent local band each week. That Yo La Tango- Emulsified was before YouTube, so it came Dead Kennedys- Riot with the excitement of perform- Tex and The Horseheads- ing in a television studio, as well Oh Mother as seeing yourself on TV. That Tracy Bonham- Mother was a wonderful support vehi- Mother cle. Plus, I watched it all the time Smashing Pumpkins- Today just to check out the other bands. Tori Amos- Smells Like Of course, there was Metroland Teen Spirit Magazine, Times Union, and oth- Deap Vally- Baby I Call Hell er publications that would write - Same Old Song bands up, their CDs and live and Dance shows. It was like having our own local and Village Voice and everyone wanted to be Photo by Jessica Maceli written up in there. But then the Acoustic Trauma seeks to redefine the acoustic sound. Page 6 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Subversion From an Early 80s Cable Box Focus Points: Buzz Magazine, Real George’s Back Room, and Hypnosis - with Artist George Guarino By Debora Bump

n the mid’80’s, BUZZ MAG- AZINE graced the counters Iof local establishments, fos- tering the local arts/music scene alongside national acts. Musi- cians anticipated their photos and reviews, while nascent writers looked for bylines. Real George’s Back Room was the companion animal to Buzz, a widely viewed Photo Provided cable access show, on the same George Guarino harnessed the power of videorecording live music when MTV premise. Several episodes have was getting it’s butt slapped in the delivery room. recently found their way onto YouTube. The man behind the asking me about it for a long Albany on the map, that there a part of this in some way. So by subcultural magic, George Gua- time, and part of my inspiration was something special happening videotaping them, I felt like I was rino, eventually transitioned to was that you had made a com- here. helping in some way, that I could another career path. A licensed ment, on one of my Facebook RRX: I’d say you did just that. be part of their world. That was hypnotist, he is particularly pages. You asked if I still had George: At least it’s docu- the genesis of the television show. passionate about a self branded old Buzzes, talking about the mented. I really thought it was It was really out of wanting to trance technique, called “Pic- old days. Other people had been going to go further, but it has to have a place within this focus of trance”, which incorporates art wanting to see some episodes; do with the people and bands music, particularly original music into the hypnotic process. I met it was the day or two, of that big that were here. in the Albany area. with George recently at one of his snowstorm. I made an effort that RRX: What year did Real RRX: Where was it shown, office locations, to learn of the day, to lock myself up, and put a George’s Back Room take off? what areas? segue from the world of the sub- few episodes online. George: I got a camcorder in George: I would produce my cultural, to that of the seemingly RRX: I think people are going the middle of ‘81, then learned show through Schenectady Pub- mysterious subconscious. to be really happy to see them! about the public access channels lic Access, then take it physical- RRX: You recently uploaded George: Particularly the in Rensselaer and Schenectady. I ly to the facility in Albany, then episodes of Real George’s Back people that are in these bands; was interested in bands, and was Rensselaer; basically those three Room onto YouTube. What in- I did think of myself as docu- in bands with my brothers. I re- areas. spired this? menting these times. I really felt ally loved Fear of Strangers; I ad- RRX: It was quite popular, I George: People had been like somehow we wanted to put mired them. I really wanted to be remember. May 2019 Page 7 Music Art Culture Revolution

George: I liked that it was one at The Chateau, have Shaq in your face. viewed at the following locations: coming into people’s homes; ca- them. RRX: So cable access was Uncommon Grounds, 24 Clifton ble had just started. ‘81 was when RRX: Real George’s Back quite the creative outlet. Country Rd. MTV started, my show came Room was just a little before my George: It took a lot of effort. Clifton Park about then as well. The interest- time. The first video I ever saw on I was interested in the produc- PH Gallery, 455 Broadway, Troy, ing thing was, once people final- the show was “Stigmata”. tion part of it, getting it on. My through My 31st ly made videos for MTV, there George: Stigmata! Oh yes, job was finding people to do the Uncommon Grounds, 1235 West- wasn’t a lot of other places to play Ministry! (Laughs) interviews. ern Ave., Albany, May 13/June14 them. I would let people know RRX: I was amazed, it was RRX: Like Mike Eck! I saw Hudson Underground, 124 War- that Albany had a place to play when I realized there was a com- him on one of the Youtube videos. ren St., Hudson their videos, and if you watched pletely different world of music George: In the beginning, Featuring the Hypnosis/Pic- the shows, you would see that I out there! my brother Gene was great about trance Process, June 15th have videos that weren’t played George: In the beginning, doing interviews. We got to meet in a lot of other places, plus the there weren’t a lot of music vid- people like Martha from The Mo- This article in its entirety can normal ones you would see, like eos, because MTV was the only tels, George Thorogood, people be found on the RadioradioX.com Michael Jackson, which I didn’t place to play them. Network tele- we admired locally; Blotto, Fear blog. Click on ‘Xperience.’ put on my show. vision didn’t. There were three of Strangers. There was a club in RRX: How long did Real channels and public television. Renssalaer, Hulabaloo; We did a George’s Back Room run for? I would have shows weekly. The lot of things there, they seemed George: The show was on nice thing about cable is you most inviting. from the end of ‘81, to about ‘95. could have the same show run re- RRX: So Buzz Magazine came peatedly. The thing I liked about George Guarino’s work can be after Real George’s Back Room? cable, when it first came out, I George: The first versions was equal to NBC, CBS, and ABC. of it were just one piece of paper When you flipped through the folded in half, that I mailed to cable box, I think in the Albany publicize the tv show; this mor- area it was in a pretty low num- phed into a few pieces of paper ber, I think it was number two, or stapled together, like a booklet. one, so you couldn’t miss it, you 1985 is when I had the firsts news had to go through it; and some print. of the tapes I was showing were RRX: So the original ones are very subversive in a certain way, probably collectible! just sliding right in. George: People contact me RRX: So, people were like once in awhile; people who were what the heck is THIS? in the bands. To them, it’s very George: What the heck is valuable. Some have passed away, this, yeah! (laughs) and there are people who have RRX: Catching a glimpse of had kids. I want to get the shows that Ministry video, wow! out while people are still alive George: Yes, I loved it! On and care about it to some de- YouTube today, there’s so much gree. I wish I had done it soon- out there, it’s on overload. But er, because people have passed back then you were equal to these away. The two that I think about other channels. Not that the pro- are Billy Harrigan, from Opera- duction quality was equal to it, tion Pluto, and The Dronez. Also but the possibility of someone Shaq, from The Outpatients. running across it, having to con- Some of the shows I have up now, sider it a moment was right in Page 8 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution A Quiet Mind - May is Mental Health Month

By Fred Aseel even hold an appointment with bipolar with obsessive compul- ugly side.” [Ugly Side by Blue your psychologist over the phone. sive disorder. “I bet you’re wait- October]. The one consistency in ental health is more Then we lay a stigma on mental ing for that long sob story of my journey to find a quiet mind than just the absence illness that prevents many people how I was mistreated again. No, is music. My music of choice is Mof mental illness. The from seeking help and appropri- I wasn’t built that way. I was – “an automatic U.S. Surgeon General has de- ate care. The prejudice, labeling strong but desperately brave steeple for depressed and lonely fined mental health as “a state of and discrimination of mental ill- people” [The Answer by Blue Oc- successful performance of men- ness becomes as disabling as the “The one consistency tober]. Their music comforts me, tal function, resulting in produc- illness itself. consoles me and forces me to feel tive activities, fulfilling relation- “So now we’ve come upon in my journey to find a an array of feelings that helps me ships with people, and the ability the hardest things I’ve even quiet mind is music” recognize and address my reac- to adapt to change and to cope done. It’s telling you that I’m a tions and behavior. It helps me with adversity.” Yet, as a society mess. What sort of mess I mean believe I am, and will, be alright and I didn’t mean to scare ya.” we contribute to limiting activity is self-destructive gasoline, the and to focus on the positive and [Schizophrenia – Blue October]. and encourage non-verbal com- kind that strips you of your best. prioritize that which is import- Some days I can’t force myself munication – have your grocer- [Chamelion Boy by Blue October]. ant. “All my life, been running out of bed; I lay there replaying ies delivered to the curb, email I suffer from depression from a pain in me, a feeling I conversations in my head from your doctor your aliments and and anxiety and am borderline don’t understand, holding me years past fretting over how those down. Today, I don’t have to fall exchanges could have played out apart, I don’t have to be afraid… different or things I should have Get back up.” [Fear by Blue said. I avoid places I have nev- October]. er visited before solely because Psychologists believe that mu- I have never been there before; sic has a positive impact on men- Do you pay the waitress or do tal health by helping those inflict- you pay at the register – I start to ed resolve conflict and find long shake with fear that I would have lost understanding which in turn to ask. I notice chipping paint enhances mental health. Music on the kitchen wall, and now 48 can help verbalization about top- hours later I am still awake, the ics that may be difficult to dis- kitchen is repainted, the contents cuss and rhythmic and repetitive of cabinets are alphabetized and aspects engages the neocortex of new backsplash installed – after our brains which calms us and which, the paint cans and tools reduces impulsivity. will remain a fixture in the kitch- “If I could let go en for months. I leave myself Then I could notes on the bathroom mirror But I can’t stop always tear- to remind myself that I’m hav- ing myself down. I can be ing a good day because I took my good enough yeah, I will break medication so that I don’t confuse ground” a good day with a sign that I no [Break Ground by Blue longer need the medication. October] “I only want you to see my This May…. find your Blue favorite part of me, and not my October. May 2019 Page 9 Music Art Culture Revolution Pop Punk Heroes and Generation Z Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Producer Nick Rossi shines in the new frontier of self-made musicians. as my dad was also a bit of a gam- By Liam Sweeny er himself. The one game that I will always cherish is guitar hero. he Capital Region has Believe it or not if I hadn’t started a lush forest of musical playing guitar hero on an every- Ttalent, and like any for- day basis I would not be where I est, a tall oak has to spring from am today. It was something about the ground before it can caress playing all of my favorite songs the sky. We have players who’ve that I grew up with on a plastic entertained us, gave us thrills gaming guitar that made me say, throughout the years. And we I want to do this for real. Weeks have musicians that are about to. later I got my first red squire gui- Nick Rossi is a one-man army. tar and I took off running. He wears as many hats as can fit RRX: With every artist or Photo provided him, and his sound will have you musician comes a supporting Nick Rossi praises Guitar Hero in helping to develop young talent. guessing which hat’s got the most cast. Other musicians, even if magic. His latest EP, My Serenity their sessions artists, and people the end of the day I try to stick to me is “wow this sounds like was released in February. behind the scenes. How do you with my gut feeling, but I always 90’s rock, sort of like Blink-182 We sit down with Nick and navigate advice and good inten- take feedback into consideration or Green Day”. The big guitars, discuss the Rennaisance. tions when you have a “vision” in and I definitely try to look at cer- the fast-paced energy and at- RRX: Anyone who listens to your ear? tain things in a whole new light, titude are all inspired by these your work would have two hard NR: When I have a vision in especially when I find myself two giants. I’ve been listening to times; one, believing that such a my head for a song, it’s honestly stuck. these two bands since I discov- full sound is coming from a solo very hard to veer off in a differ- RRX: Jamming out on your ered them when I was probably artist, and two, that the artist in ent direction than where I was latest EP now. There’s such a big 6 or 7 years old. They got me into question is nineteen years old. initially going. I’ve gotten a lot sound in the guitar, a really posi- the pop- punk genre and till this Were you surrounded by music of feedback from many differ- tive, energetic thrust to it. I don’t day, it is my favorite genre. With as a kid, or did you just dig it one ent people while in the process of really like to compare people’s that being said, I do have to give day and didn’t stop digging? recording new songs and mixing music to other bands, so I won’t. credit to other huge bands in the NR: I was raised in the 80’s them and I am always open for But that doesn’t mean you can’t. genre for influencing my sound rock genre of music. My dad was feedback to get an outsider’s per- What bands would’ve been high such as New Found Glory, Yellow- very fond of Van Halen, Iron spective of what I’m creating. I praise to you if I compared you to card, etc. I could go on and on. Maiden, , and oth- feel like it can be the best thing or them? RRX: You just released an er bands of that 70’s - 80’s rock the worst thing sometimes. There NR: Green Day and Blink-182 EP called My Serenity. I’m really genre and he would play their might be a part of the song that are my absolute all-time big- digging this, and I’m wishing you music almost everyday in my car I love and some might agree, but gest influences in terms of genre, my best with it. Can you tell us ride to and from day care as a some will think “ehh, maybe you sound and presence. Every time a little about it, maybe add a few very young child. I also got into can change this” and that’s where I show someone new my mu- video games at a very young age I get into conflict with myself. At sic, that’s the first thing they say Continued on Page 10... Page 10 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 9 year at college and couldn’t really the basics and to get the best out inspiration to me and their mu- do anything when I was away. I of each song as I could from mix- sic inspires my sound as well and neat facts about how it was put started all of the recording and ing and mastering. My end goal some of the lyrics I write. Seeing together? production for My Serenity over was to make every song sound them grow and become big from NR: Glad you like it! I appre- this past summer, so I had every as big as possible and evoke as a small town such as my own re- ciate the kind words. When I was day to work on it which is what I much emotion as I could manage ally gives me hope and constant- recording and putting togeth- did. I would get home from work to produce, and I think I did just ly gives me something to look er my first EP, For Tomorrow, I every single day around 2:30pm that. forward to each and every day. It was still in the process of writing and I would go right to my room RRX: This is where you an- reminds me that anything is pos- some of the songs on My Seren- and work on my songs. I think it swer the question I didn’t ask. sible, all you need is dedication ity. I wanted to take the produc- took me around 7-8 months to Who is out there musically that and the drive to take it to the next tion and songwriting to the next put this EP together to the best of you have your eye on? What do level. I’ve been in the works with level for this EP and really show- my ability as a producer, song- you have on your calendar for some new music already. I’ve also case what I am all about and writer, and mixing and mastering 2019? The floor is yours. opened up for a local artist by the share music I feel so passionate engineer. I was actually learning NR: For the past few years, name of Katie Louise a few weeks about with the world. I rushed my how to master while I was mas- I’ve closely been following State ago and I intend to do more first EP out as I didn’t really have tering the songs on this EP. It Champs. It amazes me how they shows like that soon and maybe much time for crazy edits and took me a bit to really get down originated out of the same area even get a band together at some such as I was starting my first (Upstate New York) that we live point soon. I’m very excited to Rossi counts Green Day and Blink 182 among his bigger influences in and they’ve made it big and see where my music takes me this Photo Provided they have a massive fan base year and in the future! now. They are also a huge May 2019 Page 11 Music Art Culture Revolution Page 12 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

Photo provided Music, Family and the Best Medicine Candy Ambulance found each other, and are dig deep. Who is Candy Ambu- (snaps fingers) and I think in do- lance? What is your message? ing so I was able to be empow- on an epic quest to find your listening ears. Caitlin: Boys? ered to go through and really look Caitlin: We just want to rock at myself. may just be a fan boy posing as and roll and do it with people. I feel this next record is very By Rob Smittix a journalist. Group: (Laughter) um… very personal and I think Lifelong friends and band- Caitlin: So for me, I was kind that my song writing style is kind andy Ambulance is a three mates Jesse Bolduc (Bass) of in that place , like of introspective rather than us piece group hailing from and Jon Cantiello (Drums) joined okay it’s time to have babies; do necessarily having a message. Cthe Saratoga Springs area their queen, Ms. Caitlin Bark- that thing. When these two came But… I think it’s a good time for or maybe it’s Queensbury. I guess er (Guitar/Vocals) in a conver- along (referring to Jesse and Jon) my voice to be heard because it it doesn’t really matter now be- sation with me on the floor of I was in a relationship, I thought is about sexual abuse that I had cause they are actually relocat- their rehearsal space. Barker so I was going to get married. I was suffered from childhood; I guess ing to Troy. I do like the sound eloquently places F-bombs in so settled on that, he was older and I wouldn’t say suffered… but of that, Troy-based Candy Am- many of her sentences. For obvi- he had money, I was like alright it led me into this whole spiral bulance, yup it does have a ring ous reasons we had to omit these this is cool, this will work. It took of not thinking. I don’t know, I to it. However, I was thrilled to parts, but you are encouraged to two weeks of jamming with these drink way too much. I have a lot have visited the band’s house in imagine them in your own mind. guys in my apartment bedroom of issues, fortunately function- the North-Country for this inter- Let’s begin. and one open mic to move in to- ing alcoholism is my only dan- view and a private performance RRX: I really want to get to gether, we’ve been together ever gerous issue. I’m kind of lucky previewing some new material. I the core of what defines you, let’s since. It was just a snap decision to have gone that route. That’s May 2019 Page 13 Music Art Culture Revolution why it’s called “Traumantic” (the RRX: Well a band is family. think this next one doesn’t aban- recorded the takes; I don’t real- forthcoming album). It’s about Caitlin: Yeah it did, it created don the branding that we did to ly remember it. Then we woke the trauma that I dealt with and a family and it’s two people who ourselves or our listeners brand- up . He was worried how that effected my personal love me, support me, and have ed us with. I think it’s just way that maybe I died in the room at relationships and the way that I taken care of me for 5 years, it’s more truthful, way more grown his house. He was concerned that viewed myself in the world after. amazing to have a relationship up and closer to what we’ve been maybe I choked on my vomit be- From that point on I’ve been in between two people working for trying to do this entire time. I cause I wasn’t up very early. He a lot of bad relationships. I was five years, to have it be between don’t think you can call it punk or said he was really wrestling with with a guy for two years that was three people is really special. . do I just go in there? Like I don’t incredibly abusive, he ended up RRX: Can you tell us more Caitlin: And we did it really know this girl, I don’t want stalking me. It was awful, it was about the new album you are with Tommy Stinson as our pro- to just barge into the room. He crazy, it’s like mind control, it’s working on? ducer. He’s the bassist for The Re- was scared that I had died be- like you’re in a cult. Jesse: We’ve started mixing. placements. We went to Hudson cause that’s how much we drank. So then I get with these guys Very excited to have a hand in and recorded with him, you know So I get up and I’m like ‘oh (the band) and I was like F-that. I that. it was a huge deal. I’ve been a Re- God we’re going to have to record cut off people I don’t want in my Jon: The material we’re about placements fan for a long time, I all of it again, so hungover.’ He’s life anymore, I started therapy, I to put out is definitely the clos- kind of lost my mind. He’s cra- like ‘Dude I know, this is going to am easily the happiest I’ve been est translation of who we are as a zy, he’s so fun. It was exactly how suck.’ So we went and got a drink in my life and it was from being group, so far. I think up until now you’d picture a rock star, he also and a coffee and we go there ful- in a band. So I guess the point of we’ve just been taking good stabs played bass for Guns and Roses. ly prepared to have to re-record our band for me was that it saved at what we might want to be, He’s a legitimate rock star. everything. We snagged every me. which was close to what we are. I By the third or fourth day we single vocal take blackout drunk. were on the floor, wasted at like I’m not slurring, they’re great 4:00 AM. When we did the vo- takes. You hear him screaming cals, I went down by myself. He at me. He’s like, “Pull it out! Get wanted to know the content and it!” There was one song where we what I was writing about be- did seventeen vocal takes, I can’t cause we did it live. He heard a even imagine what that scene little bit of the lyrics but didn’t must’ve looked like. The two of really know what I was going us just wasted but he pushed me for. Over a bottle of whiskey we so hard and the only one that had this heart to heart about my was good was take seventeen. He past and he has had some simi- said “it’s not right” and he made lar hardships. We were emotional me sing in a way I’ve never sung and just going for it and then we Continued on Page 34... Page 14 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Now You See Me, Now You Hear Me As far as art goes, I’ve always been inclined to make it. From finger painting to oil portraits, I’ve covered quite a bit of ground. Now I study at School of the Art Institute of Chicago and I find I’m more fulfilled than I thought I could ever be. RRX: Your voice, on Mario- nette, and that whole groove, it’s very long and deep and it has a gravity that, if someone just sees you, they’re not going to get. You have amazing depth both in voice and word, so in your opinion, do your lyrics demand a certain voice, so to speak, or does your voice demand a certain type of Photo provided lyric? Singer Erin Hanna Marionette, Erin’s debut album, was released in July 2018. EH: I think my voice demands a certain type of lyric. I think that brings her powerful set the tall grass to rustle, Erin is I was on my way to becoming because of its deep tone. I don’t voice to the light as currently attending the School of an opera singer, then one day think happy tunes have the same Art Institute in Chicago, and has I decided I wanted to be a rock effect when sung by me, unless I she makes her debut. released Marionette, her debut star. I started taking bass les- am to change the style in which CD on Spotify and Apple Music. sons and went to my first music I’m singing, which I can do. My By Liam Sweeny I sit down with Erin to talk camp with Don Warren called earlier songs focus on happi- about the particulars of astral U-Rock Camp. At my first camp, er themes. My lyrics are deeply projection insurance. Don brought me out of my small powerful to me, and I hope my ne of the best things RRX: I don’t usually write ba- fourteen year-old comfort zone voice transfers that power to its about interviewing mu- sic questions, mainly because I’m by having me play bass and sing listeners. Osicians for RadioradioX not that smart, but I think in your on “Sex and Candy” by Marcy RRX: You’re also an artist, and Xperience is the chance I get case, I really should be asking: Playground. and just like your singing, your to be completely surprised and how did you start out, not only Shortly after I started gui- art has an age defying gravity to blown away. Like seeing a young with music, but with your art as tar and ukulele, and I wanted to it. I did notice that in the title of singer and hearing “she’s just well? Did you just explode on the write my own songs. The first your Instagram page (@dizzzy- starting out, she’s gonna be huge,” scene, or have you been playing song I ever wrote is not featured bones,) you give a shout out to and listening to that first song for a large part of your life? In on Marionette because it’s too New York’s Capital Region. How and knowing that it is the God’s short; what’s your superhero ori- embarrassing. I didn’t have the important is the identity and honest. That was my introduc- gin story? courage to produce the album un- pride, I guess, that comes with tion to Capital Region native Erin EH: I started playing til I brought Don, who was also being from our area? Hanna. when I was young. I moved on my guitar teacher, my title track EH: I would say that growing With a voice that could move from that when I was about ten Marionette. He loved it and gave up around Albany influenced my the breeze across the fields and and then took up vocal lessons. me the confidence I needed. artwork not so much physically, May 2019 Page 15 Music Art Culture Revolution but emotionally. When you say depiction of women and social ex- heart is when I see a piece by an part of it I was painting a mural age defying I tend to think of my pectations of women, loneliness, artist reposted and go uncredited. for my high school’s elementary Dad’s body wash, but I try to put and self-reflection. A lot of my art Somebody put their time and ef- school section. I was also apply- mature and childlike themes in is very personal and there is no fort into that piece, and you have ing to college and putting togeth- my work, if they’re not completely central theme. no right to share it without their er my portfolio for that. Since I serious. I like to work with “kid’s RRX: I was able to immerse knowing. didn’t have many social plans my materials” like polymer clay, felt, myself in you in minutes; from RRX: I really love Mario- senior year, scheduling wasn’t etc. getting 50 characters on your nette, I do. Can you tell us loyal usually an issue, but the two There is also a component with end, I could do that. A world Capital Region supporters how it things combined did make me adding your hometown in your which is, now, more yours than came to be? Was it a long journey quite busy. Instagram bio which is that locals mine, is radically different than or a fevered sprint? And were you RRX: This is where you get can source your work and become the one where I stood on the active in physical art while you to get to answer any question we fans, or possibly even purchase it. street corner selling drawings on were in the recording process? If didn’t ask but should have. Who As far as Albany goes, I hope my scrap. What does art have to say so, did the art and music go hand do you love out there? What’s on identity shows in my work be- in this “age of exposure,” and how in hand in any way, or did sched- your plate this year? What’s your cause where I grew up is a large does art have to say it? uling demand compromises? best Cthulhu recipe? The floor is part of who I am. EH: If you are an artist in this EH: “Marionette” was defi- yours. RRX: I love interviewing day and age you must scream it nitely a fevered sprint (the song, EH: I guess one thing I want multi-artistic people. There’s from the rooftops. People are that is). I remember when I the world to know (or the Capital something in creating that’s uni- starting to care less and less wrote it, I was full of anxiety so Region, at least) is to never stop versal, and I think humanity about art it seems, and that is much so that I convinced my- working on your craft. It takes could spend an eternity exploring why we must keep it alive. Many self the song wasn’t about me. I years, decades even to master the creative process. Your music contemporary artists are doing told myself I wrote it about my something. This is why you must and your art are very complemen- that through using new mediums, friend who was involved in an keep going. That doesn’t mean it’s tary, in that as I listen and look, I digital media, social media, and abusive relationship. I was active wrong to fall off the wagon now feel like they sync. What ‘themes,’ more. One thing that breaks my in art while recording, for a large and again, but when you do, it is we’ll say, do you pick up most important to pick 0n when you work? yourself back up. EH: One of my fa- Who do I love? That’s vorite themes would be easy. I love my dad, my a sense of self-erasure. mom, my boyfriend After going through Nate, my sister Abby, being bullied in high my dog, Don, Linda, school, I wouldn’t want and many others who to show my face. In helped contribute to many of my pieces at this album. Hold people school here so far, I’ve close, because you nev- found that I don’t in- er know when they’re clude a face, or I’ll leave going to let go. out key features like eyes or mouths. Then, Erin will be appear- maybe the eyes and/ ing on the RadioradioX or mouth will reappear stage at the Riverfront in a different part of Arts Festival in June. the piece. Some other Instagram: themes I enjoy explor- @erinhannaa ing are conquering Photo provided personal fears, media Erin is currently attending the School of Art Institute of Chicage (SAIC) Page 16 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

Sharing Something Beautiful Photo provided From Fat ‘n’ Bad in the Capital Region to singing for Santana, playing around here, you were in the band Fat Kingston native Tony Lindsay begins a bright new solo project, and Bad. You are the first former member of Fat and Bad that I’ve had the chance to inter- view. Can you let our local music fans know By Liam Sweeny on that album, and so many more. It just had what Fat and Bad was all about, throughout so much heart, and really a mystic feel to it. its storied life? Where exactly does that vibe come from? TL: I’m from Kingston, NY but I went to he Capital Region has deep roots, and Can you give us a window on that creative college at SUNY Albany. Moved off campus, some names pop up, some are bur- process? lived downtown and also worked at a famous Tied deeper. In the late 70s, there was TL: The vibe from the creation of Santa- clothing store called Snappy Men’s Shop. A a scene and a player that would go from the na’s album Supernatural comes from many head shop business owner by the name of snow and the cold to the palm trees and sun- sources. It was the combination of already David Ward was the leader of the band Fat shine of , only to make his mark. famous artists, new upcoming artists, and a and Bad. We were probably the hottest R&B Few people around here know that the few different producers, put together by Clive band in the Albany area. I used to play con- long-standing singer for Santana, Tony Lind- Davis to perform with The Santana Band. gas and sing, sat in with the band a few times say, was, and is, one of us. Forever proud to Something like that had never been done be- and then was invited by David to become a call himself a native, he was more than gra- fore and made it such a huge hit because the member. It was only a short time after that cious enough to chat with us. vibe and the songs were set up so that people when that particular band split up and I can’t RRX: I played (Santana’s) Supernatural of all ages could sit and enjoy it together. remember the reason why, but we reformed out; had to go buy a new one. You sang vocals RRX: When you were living in Kingston, without David Ward and called the band Fat. May 2019 Page 17 Music Art Culture Revolution

RRX: I’m jamming out to the destination-to-be for players TL: Working with legends TL: Something Beautiful is something beautiful right now; around here? What do you think like Carlos Santana there are being well received on The In- literally, Something Beautiful, the Capital Region do to hold moments of wisdom every day dependent soul and smooth jazz your latest solo R&B album. It’s onto the talent better? around him, if you’re paying at- levels here in the U.S and parts very upbeat, very “sunny,” if that’s TL: For me, it’s the weather. tention enough to learn from of Europe. In fact “Sweet Love,” a good description. What’s dif- Too damn cold on the East coast. them. Music wise, he opens up which is the first single, has been ferent for you doing a project like I will always love New York, it your mind to music from other number 1 for the past 2 weeks this versus working on something will always be in my heart, and parts of the world because that’s and has been sitting in the top 10 that isn’t a solo? whenever folks ask me where what he listens to. Being on time, and within the top five for quite TL: When you create s solo I’m from I always say, “Kingston, making sure the band is tight, a few weeks. I just shot a video project, all of the decision mak- New York,” but I can’t function in taking personal care on the road, for the second single which will ing, the songs, the package, the that cold, man. all of that kind of stuff is part of be “Something Beautiful”. I’m people you involve, everything, RRX: Another Santana ques- the success. in the process of putting a show including the financial responsi- tion. Carlos Santana cuts such RRX: So you’ve got the new and a band together to perform bility, in my case, was purpose- an imposing figure in the mu- solo album that’s out. Is there a my original material. Different ly on me. This way I maintain sic scene. And you sang for him, tour for that right now? Any oth- Moods, The Message is Love, control of who I want to be in- which is a unique bond in a band. er projects happening? And can Memoirs, Tony Lindsay are volved. When it’s a band project, Were there ever any “moments of we tug on your nostalgic heart- previous cd’s that I’ve released. everyone in the band holds the wisdom” between you and him strings and get you to come by Something Beautiful is my 5th responsibility. that that you feel comfortable the 518 and show the Capital Re- RRX: You’ve done the sharing? gion some love? Star-Spangled Banner at NBA, Continued on Page 34... NFL, and MLB games out on the west coast, including the Golden State Warriors, the Forty-Nin- ers, the SF Giants and others – I have heard how difficult the Star-Spangled Banner is to sing. Can you comment on what goes into that? TL: Don’t try to get too fancy, sing the melody, add your inflec- tions and personality, and don’t start the song too high because “The rockets red glare the bombs bursting in air” and “The land of the free and The home of the brave” are gonna be high notes to reach. Always leave a window to get out. RRX: We have interviewed a few musicians who’ve come from the Hudson Valley and went off to find success out west. What is it about the west coast that makes it

Tony would love to bring Something Beautiful to the 518. Greg Haymes “Sarge” Local Legend Rest In Peace

Based on photography by Rudy Lu, Ron Schubin and Martin Benjamin Page 20 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Tales from the Door By George Glass

ello my fellow associates to talk you off the ledge and get and patrons, today’s ser- you in a cab without a scratch. Hmon is about when it’s When this occurs without chaos, time to go. First thing you need it works out for everybody. Most to understand; we want you to employers frown upon their staff have a good time, but not at the being arrested for disorderly con- expense of everyone else. Ob- duct or assault. I can’t imagine LIVE MUSIC SATURDAYS | 8 PM - 11 PM viously, we are there to protect waking up in a cage and realizing May 4th, 2019 – Brian Kane the owners and their establish- your job is in jeopardy on Mon- May 5th, 2019 – Rye Bread Cinco de Mayo Party ments. But, we are also pres- day morning! with Dos Amigos | Starting at 3:00 pm ent to look out for you. When The mark of a responsible May 11th, 2019 – The Tradition folks are sauced up, inhibitions establishment and staff is mak- May 18th, 2019 – Frankie Lessard are non-existent and the part ing sure that doesn’t happen to of themselves that needs to stay you. So, if a burly fellow pulls Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner • Daily Drink Specials under wraps for society’s sake is you aside and asks if you’re ok unleashed. When you’re in that or tells you it’s time to go; don’t 33 Saratoga Ave, Waterford, NY 12188 • (518) 326 - 2739 state of mind, reason and civility argue, complain, or threaten us are tough concepts to grasp. And with calling the family lawyer/ onto this, the Bouncer, a voice of politician. Just acknowledge our rationality and logic. words and let us help you. I hope DON’T FORGET MOM THIS MOTHER’S DAY. CELEBRATE In the old days, the coolers folks will take this bit of advice THE WOMAN WHO MADE IT ALL POSSIBLE WITH... and cowboys had only one pur- and keep it in mind, the next time pose; if you acted up, we’d throw they venture out. Until next time, your ass to the curb. Figurative- please act responsibly and drink ly or physically, it was up to you. within your limits! Now, with the advent of frivolous lawsuits and the requirement of licenses, our roles have changed a bit. Currently, it behooves us

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! TAKE $2.00 Off $20.00 PURCHASE WITH THIS AD Shop our incredible, curated selection of quality wine & spirits. With our unmatched stock of red, white, and sparkling wines, we have what you need for Mom! 1471 ROUTE 9, HALFMOON, NY 12065 | 5188 55772877 May 2019 Page 21 Music Art Culture Revolution Page 22 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Thumbs Up and Open Road Music Chasing the next great experience has given artist Deb Ca- vanaugh a window on the world she can roll down. By Liam Sweeny

ulti-instrumental. Multi-talented. Many Mstyles of music. I love these phrases, and I wish that they were a stock-standard defi- nition, like a title you get just for playing your first show. But only a few people can truly pin these to their lapels. Deb Cavanaugh, of course, is one of them. With a resume that stretches back to the early eighties Albany scene and the psychedelic band General Eclectic to a folk sound Photos provided Deb Cavanaugh performs with a wide aray of instruments, including a banjo, that is at once haunting and hom- mandolin and mounatin dulcimer. ey, Deb Cavanaugh has exempli- fied the talent profile of the Capi- difficult today because times re- the people who give you the rides. start out with? tal Region. ally have changed. I did most That’s where the experiences are. DC: Every song is different. I sit down with Deb to talk of of that traveling in 1974 and ‘75 My former husband referred to Sometimes I’m inspired by a the best of times. when it was easier to get rides himself as a “road scholar,” and phrase, and sometimes the music RRX: You spent a lot of the and was also more acceptable, that is so true. You learn from comes first. It also depends on time hitchhiking across coun- although I still pick people up the people you meet. what instrument I’m playing. Af- try in the past, stopping to play when I see them. I think it’s pos- RRX: What I really like about ter taking a series of songwriting wherever you could. My father sible to have similar experiences your music, as I’m listening now, workshops, first with Janis Ian was a similar traveler, and he if you’re willing to take chances is how tightly the instrumen- then with Bob Franke, I start- looks back fondly. In your expe- with no expectations. The beauty tation, namely guitar, and your ed giving myself assignments to rience, could a young singer in of hitchhiking is that there’s such vocals are mutually reinforcing. challenge myself and stay out of their twenties get anywhere near a random assortment of peo- I’m having a real hard time figur- a specific mold. Then I also have that kind of experience under ple who pick you up. However, I ing out if you wrote words for the instrumental pieces that some their belt today? And how would think it’s important to enter into music or music for the words. Do people want me to write words it have to be different? it with the acceptance that you’re you have a particular flow in your DC: I do think it’s more going to listen to the stories of songwriting, like one you usually Continued on Page 23... May 2019 Page 23 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 23 broken down, but if you had to group, and they commented that trained on piano and occasional- think about it, are there themes I often have elements of nature in ly write songs for that instrument for, but they feel complete to me that you like to play off, or that my songs including a lot of night as well. I haven’t yet written for as they are. maybe you need to? sky images. I know that I write the banjo, but I’m sure the same RRX: There’s a lot of “sto- DC: That’s an interesting a lot from my life experiences, thing will happen. I also like to ry” to your music. I get the sense question. If you had asked me a too. It’s how I’ve gotten through play in alternate tunings on the that there’s something in it that’s year ago, I would have said that a lot of traumatic events over the guitar. As soon as I start play- greater than the sum of parts. there was no real theme. Howev- years. I also seem to write a lot ing in one of those tunings, the- I know that’s really an element er, I recently was in a songwriting of songs in ¾ time. I guess I’m songs start writing themselves, of your life, which can’t truly be fond of that swaying feeling you and they are very different from Cavanaugh will be bringing a piece of Americana to Beijing, China. get with waltzes. the other guitar songs. I’ve been RRX: You are a multi-instru- writing songs since I was a teen mentalist. You play guitar, man- but didn’t start playing strings dolin, mountain dulcimer and until I was 40. It really changed banjo. I know from being a gui- everything. tar player once that even some- RRX: A question about Hel- thing like an effect can give you deberg Music Together®, which a whole new voice. So, with these fascinates me. This is something four different string instruments, that you own and run, and it how does “voice” come into play teaches music, in one way or an- when you write songs with, or for other, from birth through four them? years old, from five to seven, and DC: Each instrument defi- help for adults. So, since this is nitely demands their own songs. actually the coolest thing in the The dulcimer and mandolin have world, can you just tell us all their own unique sound and often about it? sing unique types of songs. I’ve DC: I love teaching Music To- also been enjoying doing rock gether®. It’s an internationally and roll covers on the mountain recognized research-based early dulcimer with a wide range of childhood music education pro- effects. Those effects are chang- gram that’s been running since ing the way I think about the 1987. I own a franchise in Del- dulcimer in general and chang- mar and Troy. There are 3000 ing the types of songs written on centers in over 40 countries. The that instrument. I was classically Continued on Page 24... Page 24 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Continued from Page 23... unique experiences, so many of recently people have been refer- is a traditional American folk art thing I love the best about it is I them we haven’t mentioned (like ring to me as brave, which is not that illustrates the songs. I get to get to help create musical fam- you being involved in a choir with something I had really thought teach the teachers as well and do ilies. The grownups, who come Duke Ellington.) So, when some- about before. It seemed to me a program for the parents. And with their children, are the ones one starts out today, and their that I foolishly jumped into situ- … they would like me to go back who are required to partici- heart is gold, they feel the music, ations without any forethought. once a year. pate. We give the kids an organic but they know there’s something It’s that spontaneity again. It Another fun project is my two learning experience in which they out there they need to experience, may not work for everyone, but weekly blogs. One is a fami- can just observe, if that’s what how do they find it? Or maybe, so far, it’s worked well for me. ly blog and the other is for my works for them. The adults are how do they look? The other important component memoirs and opinion pieces. The modeling the activities but also DC: I think the main thing is making the music your own. memoir pieces about my younger their love for music and willing- is to be open to a wide variety of I rarely play a cover exactly the days as a vagabond par- ness to jump right in and make musical styles and varied experi- way it was written and don’t sing ent are being turned into a book, mistakes because it’s so much ences. My boyfriend often laughs a song the same way twice. I Recollections of a Hippie Mama. fun. The music we’re learning is about how spontaneous I am. I have to feel them in the moment. The blog posts kind of serve as both simple and complex and is think it’s that spontaneity that’s That’s where the magic comes trailers for the finished product. really interesting to listen to. I brought me all the really cool ex- into play. I’m planning to put those on hold often have professional musicians periences I’ve had. I’m also a big RRX: Here is where you can while in China and do a travel- bringing their kids to these class- believer in positivity and creative answer the question we didn’t ogue series of blog posts while es because they see the value in visualization. I try to stay open ask. Who do you love out there? I’m away. it. to all possibilities and visualize What do you have on your cal- Lastly, I’ve finally gotten a RRX: You‘ve had a lot of what I need in my life. It’s funny; endar for 2019? Which of your band together with Bob Donald instruments is the favorite you’re on back-up vocals, guitar and not supposed to have? Anything; keyboard, NikiChaos on back- the floor is yours. up vocals and drums, and Shows DC: I have so many exciting Leary on bass. You can look for things coming up this year. First “Deb Cavanaugh and Dandelion off, I am going to Beijing, Chi- Wine” doing quirky, fun-loving na for two weeks in mid-May to roots music in the near future. teach music in two bilingual pre- Our first show as a whole band schools. I’ll be teaching songs will be at The Beer Diviner in Pe- in English and bringing along tersburg, NY on June 1st. This traditional American instru- seems to be the year that a lot of NEW YORK-CENTRIC BEER ments, mountain dulcimer and things I’ve worked towards are & SPIRIT SELECTION limberjack, and a crankie which coming together.

NAME THAT TUNE

PUB TRIVIA

54 PHILLIPS STREET, ALBANY, NY 12207 518-462-0690 | OPEN FOR LUNCH DAILY! May 2019 Page 25 Music Art Culture Revolution Lucas Garrett: The Truth Is in the Music With the upcoming release of his LP “Love is Better,” Lucas Garrett gives his music a voice and lets it speak.

By Ralph Renna just like the rest of us. As we talk- remember when I was a kid. ed, I looked at My uncle gave me my first him and thought, I guitar and I wanted to be able “This guy is real- to play it, right away, but couldn’t. ly doing it and no

So I started taking guitar lessons, matter what life Photo provided. which never worked out! I still dealt him, failure Garrett entered music at 11 years old playing the ukulele. tried, pick it up quick, put it down is not an option. quicker, and I just gave up. Many He is writing great music and liv- the various records my dad would “16 Caroline”, which is about that years later I played a little longer ing his dream”. I have since then have playing in the house. At the place and it appears on my first each time I picked it up. Jammed taken some guitar lessons, still time, I knew very little about mu- album, Evening’s Come, But It’s with friends, but I guess I gave up learning. sic! But one record that particu- Not Dark. This was released in again or accepted the little abil- Lucas Garrett is truly an inspi- larly grabbed my ear at that age 2017. I’ve played all over the Cap- ity I had to play. Although I was ration to me and many other local was , White Album. ital Region of upstate New York able to write music, play live and musicians and artists. The truth ”It’s a fantastic record that’s still for about seven years, building record, to this day I still have lim- is, as Lucas states, “The condi- one of my favorites to this day. connections and meeting new ited myself with learning how to tion is called Pompe disease. It’s It wasn’t until my brother, Max, people every year. On May 10th play the guitar. a muscular disorder where the started learning guitar that I I’ll be releasing my follow-up LP, A couple years ago we played muscles don’t work as well as they knew it’d be something I’d want Love is Better. a benefit for the Strand Theater should. This is due to a lack of an to do as well. At the time I started RRX: Influences? Locally or in Hudson Falls. This dude in a enzyme that breaks down glyco- I didn’t really know what I want- national artists? wheel chair rolled past me and gen”. We caught up with Lucas to ed out of it. LG: My favorite band of all said “Move it on over... Renna”, tell all, from the beginning to the RRX: From childhood to to- time is The Beatles. Other major and just kept going. But I knew release of his sophomore record- day give us an brief biography of parts of my influences range quite who it was. Although we never ing Love is Better. your musical career? a bit. There’s a lot of great stuff in met face to face, we had commu- RRX: Tell us about your earli- LG: I didn’t really start per- just about any decade. To name nicated prior to this day and now est memory or moment when you forming live until after high a few I’d say: Frank Sinatra, Pe- I have officially met Lucas Gar- discovered music was something school. I think I was 19 or so. I ter Gabriel, Jethro Tull, Talking rett. A fun loving, ball busting, you wanted to explore? know that my first appearance Heads, the Decemberists, Jack string twanging, heart croon- LG: One of my earliest mem- was at a bar called Gaffney’s in White, and so much more. ing, struggling local musician ories as a child was listening to Saratoga. In fact I wrote a song, One of the things I love about Page 26 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution this area is all the great local new cd? Inspirations in writing Other collaborators on the re- it’s there at least in my experi- music we have! When they were music-discography? cord were Zack Weidner and Eric ence, you’re set. a band, I loved listening to Asa LG: My first EP came out in Braymer on guitars, Corry Love- RRX: You are truly an inspi- Morris and the Mess! Other fa- 2017. It was a selection of five day on keyboards. The album was ration to other local musicians vorites of mine are William Hale songs that were mainly acous- engineered and mixed by Jesse but do you have any advice for and Candy Ambulance, among tic. For the upcoming record, not Bolduc and mastered by Jason any of those who are hesitant others. There’s so many damned only was the recording process Brown of Starling Studios. about making music because of a killer players and in more involved, but the overall I really tried to make a re- disability or fear, etc? this area that I feel very fortunate production value is much better. cord that sounds solely like me. LG: At the end of the day, ev- to be a part of the area’s scene. There’s tons of things going on I tuned out other music and just eryone has a disability. I can’t al- I think it’s really great that so in this album, from keyboards, started writing. I think different low myself to use that as a crutch many of us know each other and to electric and acoustic guitars, people will hear different influ- or selling point for our music. I work well with one another. It re- drums, auxiliary percussion, a ences depending on who else they let the music speak for itself, and ally is an awesome community of string quartet, so many damned like to listen to. We’re really hap- I think it does a good job at doing folks. things. py with how the record came out. that. My advice is to just create. RRX: When did you actual- The name on the album might RRX: You, like many other Write that song, paint that pic- ly start playing music, what were be Lucas Garrett but there’s a lot local musicians, contribute to the ture, do whatever. Just create. If the first instruments you played? of collective love and man hours scene to help other musicians, i.e. you have something to say, say it. LG: I first started playing that went into making this thing. your video interviews. How do music when I was 11. My first in- For this record, I called on you see the importance of sup- The follow-up, full length LP, strument was the ukulele, which John Anthime Miller to play porting the scene? Love is Better, will be released transitioned into the guitar. In all the string parts. Jon Canti- LG: Thanks. There are some May 10th at Downtown Social high school and for a little while ello and Gina De Nardo played people in the scene that I definite- in Glens Falls. the release party in college, I played piano, but I drums. Gina was in the band for ly disagree with regarding their will go from 9pm-12am and will haven’t properly practiced that a good stint, too, which was defi- methods, but at the end of the day feature guests William Hale and instrument in years. I’ve often nitely fun, and helped write one it really is all about finding a way more. More information www.lu- been the bandleader of various of the songs, “Aphrodite,” along to work with and around one an- casgarrettmusician.com projects and can write music for with the band’s bassist, Kevin other. Supporting each other, in other instruments, such as the Kosach. At the time we started my view, is the only way to have cello, and violin, I just don’t know making the album, I didn’t have any sense of long-term viability. how to play them. a bassist, so my brother helped I feel that as an original music RRX: Was this your first out on about half the songs, with act it can be tougher at times to recording leading up to your Kevin recording the other half. get the music out there, but once April 2019 Page 27 Music Art Culture Revolution Observations and Ramblings from a Cranky Old Guy By Jeff Spaulding Schenectady. license plates, you’ll notice they free. A few more years of work are MUCH flimsier today than in I was temped to whack them a his may sound like a politi- forced trips to Indiana, Vermont the past. few times with a sledgehammer cal piece but it really isn’t. and Massachusetts before set- They are also more bendable, to make sure (Andy gets enough T Well, for the purpose of tling down for good in 2007. and more prone to damage. of my money, thank you.) this newspaper I am not a politi- I am PROUD to say I am from They also don’t hold paint very So, one afternoon after work I cal person. New York. well either. hit the DMV with the plates, reg- A quick set up so you under- I truly LOVE to say I am from And THAT, dear reader, is the istration, insurance certification stand, I have never been a regis- New York. bone of contention. and twenty-seven 8 X 10 colored tered Republican or Democrat. I want to (eventually) retire By the way, if YOUR license glossy pictures with circles and I call myself a GDI. and DIE in New York. plate is beat up and worn consid- arrows and a paragraph on the The “I” stands for But the BASTARDS that run er this a warning, you’ll thank me back of each one to explain what Independent. this state force me daily to change later. each one meant (forget that last Should be pretty easy to guess my mind. Some time back, my wife was one, just seeing if you were still the “GD.” And for the record, I blame pulled over as she was on the paying attention…thanks Arlo.) I always vote person over EVERYONE in charge, not just a Thruway close to Amsterdam. The DMV was mobbed, imag- party. controlling party. The trooper told her that she ine the Old Country Buffett the So, politics aside, this deals Here’s one little example. (the trooper) could not read my day the welfare checks come out. with frustration of anyone living When was the last time you wife’s rear license plate. I was there for well over an in New York. REALLY looked at your license She then gave my wife a ticket. hour, getting the hairy eye ball And I’m not some fly by night plates? In truth, the license plate paint from everyone staring at “those late addition to the state either. Go ahead, I’ll wait. applied by prisoners, didn’t take. numbers,” hoping to see if they After my birth in Florida (A slight interlude while obser- We’re guessing it’s a cheaper were next so they could leave the (when dinosaurs roamed the vant readers actually check their paint, a cheaper plate, a cheap- gates of Hell. earth), my family moved to Alba- licenses, smoke ‘em if you got er type of equipment to make I swear I saw a couple of gam- ny, then Loudonville. ‘em, wouldn’t hurt for a pee break the plate or a combination of the bling addicts laying odds down. After high school, I lived in either.) three. Once I saw the clerk, in truth, Ohio a number of years, return- Everyone ready? More than likely it’s another she was very helpful. ing for about a dozen years, re- Did you wash your hands way the state of New York tries While she couldn’t “officially” siding in Watervliet, Chatham, afterward? to save money, which unfortu- confirm my theory on why the back to Albany and eventually Okay, for those looking at nately for us goes back to them quality was down, that wink to in spades, thanks in part to the her eye just said to me: taxed and fined residents of the “Yes, we’re all getting hosed state of New York. baby” So as the trooper gave my wife And now we wait to hear from the ticket, she said she had a cer- the court. tain amount of time to replace the In closure, next time you’re on plates or go to court (fine, court the road, look at the vehicles all costs, wasted time, interacting around you…how many of your with people). fellow motorists do you see (para- We made it a priority. phrasing the song) “BREAKIN Fortunately, according to New THE LAW! BREAKIN THE LAW! York, if the plates are THAT bad- Maybe it’s time to Uber. ly worn, they can be replaced for Page 28 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution “Gotta Know the Songs” - Xperience Fiction By Liam Sweeny all day. You need to know the you know?” changes.” Swan reached in his pocket “I know. I just don’t want to let for his black, plastic film canis- he Leslie speaker surged anyone down.” ter and flipped aside the lid with and recessed, pushing out Liar’s “Don’t worry. No one’s listen- his thumb. He pulled out a bowl the sounds of the Ham- T Almanac ing to you.” made from threaded pipe, wash- mond B3 like a rip current in a “Oh, Swan, that’s rough,” ers and the only piece he had to hurricane. Swan walked a funk- chord progression or key change, DeeDee turned to MacAvoy. buy, the piece that right then was line with his left hand and pep- he had quite a few fucks left to “Don’t listen to him. You’re doing packed with sticky skunk bud. pered Jackson’s guitar riffs with give. But at least he turned down good.” Even the screen came from the the acrobatics of his right. He when he was off in the weeds. Swan took out a cherry cigar. bathroom faucet of his boarding was surprised to hear DeeD- Jackson had a spoon on his “When you get good, when you house. ee’s brushes on the drums, what strings, improvising a slide. The know the progressions and you “Mac’, go get Jackson. He’ll with the firepower coming out of crowd dug it, marveling at the in- know those songs, those deep be a baby if he don’t get any of the rest of the gear. They fought genuity. They didn’t know Jack- cuts, you’ll play louder, and peo- this.” MacAvoy flicked his embers about her bringing a mic, but only son couldn’t keep his hands on a ple will hear you. I’m not trashing to the road and tucked the butt because he didn’t want to sing real slide to save his life. you, it’s good that you play low. into his pocket before he dipped over her drums in the only PA They played out the set and You don’t know a song and you back in to pull Jackson off the at the gig. The crowd was telling took a break around eight. Swan step back. That’s what you’re sup- two-for-ones. him he didn’t have to worry. A knew the waves of the gig, no posed to do. But learn the songs.” “I’m gonna make him eat those glance at DeeDee was telling him matter what was happening down MacAvoy pulled the cellophane cigarette butts.” she couldn’t hear herself and was the road. The nine-to-twelve off a fresh pack of cigarettes. “I’m “Why does he do it?” Dee Dee playing by wire. She’d have to get crowd was going to be crazier, not used to these crazy chord- held her own smoke up to the a bigger slice of the night’s tips if but their requests were going change songs,” he said. “Everyone glow from the streetlamp. “Put he wanted to keep her next week. to be closer to the songs a play- I know rocks the one-four-five.” ‘em in his pocket?” The Becker Café was a busi- er has to put in their starter kit. “And that’s good when your set “He said he’s trying not to lit- ness hangout in Albany. It was a Early crowds around there had a list is five songs long, like those ter.” Swan leaned in and nudged quiet spot, where the music was “let’s stump the band” feel. Swan shows you guys set up. But doing DeeDee with his shoulder. “After no more than live background to wouldn’t have had it any other a set like tonight, we’re going to the next set we’ll take him to the deals struck in the shadows of way. go through sixty-, seventy songs. landfill and leave him there.” the Capital building. Swan some- Swan, MacAvoy, and DeeDee You can’t just sit there and jive They laughed. “You’re terrible,” times wondered, on a big tip were outside on the open patio. A out a one-four-five sixty-times, DeeDee said. night, what he was being paid to penetrating rain was infusing the forget he’d heard. night air with the smell of ozone He turned over and aimed his and the rejuvenation of an arriv- voice low, “C sharp.” MacAvoy ing cold-front. Swan even won- was a new pick up. He came in dered if he had a sweater in the to a biker bar down by the river van. during one of the open mics Swan “I’m trying to catch you, Swan, subbed for. He liked the cat’s I really am,” MacAvoy said. “Can lead, but maybe more the you play a few more blues tunes? fact that, at the open mic, they Give me something I can go off seemed to be the only two musi- on?” cians that gave a fuck. Going by “I could, but you can’t just go MacAvoy’s inability to follow a around being Stevie Ray Vaughan May 2019 Page 29 Music Art Culture Revolution

“He’s a good cat,” Swan said. music. I remember I had to go assumed themselves to be whis- pipe, blowing the smoke toward “He’s young. When I was his age, out and learn it. The owner gave pers were revealing themselves to the outside kitchen vent to let it I was in L.A., playing at a club me five hundred bucks when I be voices and gregarious shouts mix with the smell of fried onion that Pablo Escobar owned. I ever showed up and told me to give it inside. The cabs were stopping rings and chicken tenders. tell you that one?” to a guy down the street. I spent a more frequently, letting out Swan glanced down the street, “I’ve heard it,” she said. “Not couple days with that cat learning new patrons in pairs. The nine exhaled, and passed the pipe to from you, though.” folk rhythms. There were a thou- o’clock crowd shook the rain off MacAvoy. “Oh yeah, Jackson showed up sand and twenty-four, and they their umbrellas as Swan and “That’s why ya gotta know the back—” Swan turned as the door wanted them all. But then they the crew passed the plumber’s songs.” opened and Jackson came out, paid me good, man, real good. trailed by MacAvoy. “Jackson, They were getting me whatever I when did you show up in Esco- wanted—drinks, drugs, girls—I bar’s place?” just asked. And you showed up.” “I think it was around what, “That owner was going to ’90? ’91? I just got divorced from shoot me, I thought,” Jackson Sandy, so, about then.” said. “The place had iron bars on “He told me he was going to every window and cameras ev- shoot us both,” Swan said. “Me erywhere,” Swan said. “And you for bringing you. Damned Pablo couldn’t take pictures.” He took a Escobar’s joint.” hit and paused his remembrance. They stood out and watched “They paid us to play Colombian the rain, and the voices that Page 30 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution The OMG! Band By Mike Shudt Benevento on bass. The band per- f you’ve spent any time at formed extensively at local clubs all following the local music and private events throughout Iscene in recent years, you’ve 2017 and 2018 before deciding to undoubtedly heard of The Funk re-brand itself under the current Evolution Entertainment Group. name. Owned and operated by Stephen The OMG! Band aims to pres- “Rocco” Christman, this musical ent an image and perform mate- conglomerate offers everything rial that will appeal to the 21-30 from its flagship eight-piece horn demographic, something that band Funk Evolution to a full on Rocco felt was missing from the DJ service, an acoustic duo or local scene. The OMG! Band will trio, sound and lighting, and – be performing a packed sched- new for this year – a five-piece ule for 2019 bringing its’ catalog party band known as, “The OMG! of hits from the past 3 decades Band.” mixed with current pop, rock, The OMG! Band was found- and country tunes to local ven- ed by Rocco in 2017 and initial- ues such as Spare Time in Clifton ly performed under the name Park, Firestone 151 in Schenecta- “EVO 2.” Rocco formed the band dy, and Gaffney’s in Saratoga. around lead vocalist and Berklee Keep up with The OMG! Band alumni Gianna Robustiano, on Facebook or their website at whom he had seen performing on www.theomgband.com. social media. Rocco surround- Mike Shudt is a veteran of the ed Gianna with a group of rock local music scene and can cur- solid local musicians – Dave Teta rently be seen performing across on drums, Mike Lemme on gui- the Capital Region as the bass tar, Tim Fiato on keys and Joe player in The Refrigerators.

Gianna Robustiano and The OMG! Band Photo provided

Star Wars inspired cocktails and appetizers – Come in costume and get a $6 appetizer!

Housemade sangria & the Coronarita, only $10. Mexican Buffet from 4-9 PM - $15!

Take a family photo in your PJS, and the most creative PJS will win a future lunch on us! Plus, from 4 PM to close, enjoy a special Mother’s Day dinner menu.

Join us as we raise our new flags to honor our military with food and drink specials!

795 3RD AVENUE, WATERVLIET, NY 12189 • (518) 874-1767 May 2019 Page 31 Music Art Culture Revolution

Join us each and every Thursday Evening for... OUR DATE NIGHT 3 COURSE PRIX FIXE | 2 FOR $45 Give your loved one an evening of dining and romance they will remember for a lifetime.

We want to thank you for your business, your trust & your confidence these past five years. COLLAR CITY Michelle, Ashlee, PAINTING, LLC Shannon & Jenifer “Our Mission is Your Vision!” Trusted by building contractors, interior designers, home, and $10 oo for new clients business owners. Collar City w/ Shannon or Jennifer Painting, LLC is one of the area's premier residential & commercial for a color service painting contractors.

Call to hear our • FULLY INSURED

Prom & Wedding • EPA CERTIFIED Packages • 5 YEAR EXTERIOR WARRANTY

• SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS Beautique Salon • SAFETY MONITORED CALL US AT (518) 274-0737 FOR A SPRING STIMATE! Crescent Commons COLLARCITYPAINTINGLLC.COM 1471 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 383-3333 Page 32 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Tony Lindsay (Cntd.) Continued from Page 21... over the airwaves. solo CD and the time is per- You can hear tracks from fect for me to start performing “Something Beautiful” on RadioradioX.com. my songs. I would love to perform in the 518, Capital Region, show me some love, blast Tony Lindsay Mark T. Jones Singer/Songwriter Originals, Classic Country, Americana

Photo provided Appearing May 17th Caitlin Barker doing what she does best Arsenal City Tavern considered my vocals the least Continued from Page 13... strong part of the band but now New Release I’m like alright Tommy Stinson Coming Soon before. He said “you don’t know thinks I’m cool, I can do this. your potential, get it out!” RRX: So any idea when we RRX: Tommy Stinson was can expect the new album? right to point out your potential, Jesse: We’re thinking early when I first heard Candy Ambu- summer. lance, I thought this is a punk For more on Candy Ambu- band but I can hear soul in your lance check out their website at voice. www.candyambulance.com and if Caitlin: Yeah that was Tom- you wish to see them live, which my’s point, he was like ‘you don’t is highly recommended, the trio understand you’re a soul sing- will be at Desperate Annie’s in er.’ He said ‘quit the timid girl Saratoga Springs for Super Dark stuff you don’t need to be that Monday, May 13th at 9:00 PM person.’ He was really cool and with Eternal Crimes and Cindy very inspiring. I think I probably Cane. May 2019 Page 33 Music Art Culture Revolution

16 Beers and Cider on Tap Award Winning Burgers and 2016 Wing Wars Winner Book Your Private Party Call Today!

41 112th Street, Troy (518) 235-4141 Page 34 May 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution May 2019 Page 35 Music Art Culture Revolution

606 3RD AVENUE WATERVLIET, NY (518) 238-3687

WATERVLIET’S

I R I S H P U B !

MON - WED: 3:00 PM THURS - FRI: 11:00 AM SAT - SUN: 12:00 PM

MAY 17 - 18, 2019 EAST DURHAM, NY DURHAM, EAST