Music Art Culture Roundup

September 2019 Volume. 1, Issue 8

Sirsy Melanie and Rich Give us a page from 22 their touring travelogue. Moriah Formica Having found acclaim, Moriah strikes 26 out to forge her own path. Also Featuring Eddie Munoz! www.radioradiox.com Free PATIO SEATING OUTDOOR Wednesday HAPPY HOUR PATIO Burger And Beer 3PM TO 7PM Trivia HAPPY HOUR Every Other 6PM - 9PM Wednesday PATIO MONDAY FIRST FRIDAY BURGER & BEER SUNDAY TRIVIA MUSIC NIGHT HIGH LIFE & TUESDAYS A SHOT 8PM - 10PM HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY TRIVIA 4PM - 7PM SUNDAY INDUSTRY FOLK BRUNCH HIGH LIFE HOURS FRIDAY & A SHOT LIVE MUSIC $7 MON - WED 11:30 - 12AM THURS, FRI 11:30 - 2AM OPEN EVERYDAY Sunday Sip & Slide SATURDAY 12PM - 2AM 6PM - 4AM with Fred Sunday Brunch SUNDAY 10AM - 11PM 8 DELAWARE AVE, 1/2 12 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY 452 BROADWAY, TROY, NY ALBANY, NY (518) 462-0050 (518) 326-0588 (518) 449-2988

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Sirsy The power, energy and comaraderie of their fans drive this two-piece to claim some serious asphalt.

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Photo provided. Katy Cole and Last Daze From the halls of music school to the road signs to Muscle Shoals, Moriah Formica Katy Cole and Last Daze are woven into the tapestry of hard blues After amazing crowds on ‘The Voice,’ this singer and and rock and roll. rocker is making it on her forget you. Not to mention other RRX: Let’s start with grow- own. Page 26 By Ralph Renna battles, challenges and obstacles ing up & music, your story, will rear their greedy head and influences? n some cases, it takes bands you will possibly lose a friend or KC: My love for music has many years to develop a two in the process. Welcome to been lifelong. My mom swears sound or make it to a point I the music business. that I was singing James Taylor of solid recognition. Hard work, Katy Cole has survived most songs at 13 months old. I used touring, recording and giving up Tales from the and maybe more of the above to demand Motley Crue before Door ...... 34 your life as you know it is a good mentioned. She is still taking her bedtime at three years old, and start. Sometimes, it means leav- Observations and band as seriously as the day she pretended I was the lead singer Ramblings ...... 41 ing loved ones behind and hitting and guitarist Chris Schempp got of the Misfits from Gem and the the road. On tour, moving fast Sassy Says ...... 44 together. Introducing Last Daze Holograms by four. My dad is a and slow, forgetting which town from Upstate N.Y., a harder edged musician, so he taught me guitar Liar’s Almanac ...... 46 you’re in, all the while trying to blues, a real rock band with soul at the age of 8, and I was writ- stay clear from the demons that and beautiful melodies. Vocals ing songs by the time I was 9. I may possess your soul, the life that demand attention at first started playing with JJ Raymond can chew you up, spit you out and command. Continued on Page 4... Page 4 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution when I was 14, and we became couple of lesser known and not bus for promo photos for VIP thinking there was no chance Decadence, a female acoustic duo. released albums as the Katy Cole fans. We jumped in and made in hell. But instead, he asked to That was my first taste of really Band, where I started playing jokes with him. He was very chill. hear our music. I sent him 4 of performing for a living. We start- with Chris Schempp, and that Fast forward 6 months and we our best, and he was immediately ed in bars and clubs, then even- was where the hunger to be an are looking to record again, and excited. He then asked us to come tually decided to write our own original artist was fed. Decadence scouting out Spooner Oldham to L.A. instead of Muscle Shoals stuff and make a go at it. went from acoustic duo to full to record at Muscle Shoals, and so he could fit us in between tour RRX: Give us a little history band, doing original music, and we got asked, “Who is produc- legs. It was a dream. I was broke. of your musical career leading up we started traveling to places like ing you?” It was a pipe dream I mean, dead ass. Rent was late, to Last Daze? Nashville and Florida promoting and Shooter got brought up. He I was in a dead-end job, and not KC: I have had a twisted path. our music. Last Daze happened coincidentally had just been in making ends meet, so I was leav- Ha. I started with Decadence, when Decadence went to LA and news for starting a label (fate, ing for 10 days, and flying 3000 which had a few periods of hia- essentially parted ways. right?). We had nothing to lose, miles away from home with less tus. During one of them, I got a RRX: Last Daze was touring so I gambled on an email address than 200 bucks to my name. music degree, and studied clas- and working with Shooter Jen- reaching out to his manager, Jon Sounds reasonable, right? We had sical vocal pedagogy and music nings. How did you connect and Hensley. He got back to me with- an incredible time with him. I am education. I kept playing and where has that led the band? in 15 minutes, gently letting me so proud of the record we made. writing and recording through all KC: We met Shooter in Mon- down that they weren’t signing We never expected it to be a hit, of it, but nothing was serious, or roe, Louisiana, when Decadence new bands and they were relying but hoped it would open doors, as serious as a lucrative teaching was opening for him and Chase on Waylon’s catalog, plus projects which it definitely did. Shooter career. Having a classical back- Rice. We had VIP access, so we Shooter was involved in. I came is now in a golden age. He just ground made me stronger on all were living our best lives back asking about him produc- won a Grammy, and just co-pro- stage and off stage. I recorded a haha, and Shooter came off the ing our record in Muscle Shoals, duced Tanya Tucker’s new record

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49 3rd Street Troy NY 12180 (518) 326-0630 September 2019 Page 5 Music Art Culture Revolution with Brandi Carlile. The fact we the time I spend working away, finish it. I was determined to are even mentioned in a sentence whether it be on stage or in the finish recording before I had my with him seems surreal. studio. My teaching job is quite baby. So a lot of the vocals were perience RRX: You recently took some demanding of my time, but I’m recorded when I was super preg- time off to have a child. Congrat- essentially growing a crop of mu- nant, or just after I delivered. Da- Monthly ulations! Will you pass down mu- sicians every day, and the impact vid Spreng, who mastered “Sym- sical knowledge to your children? I make on the students’ lives is so bols and Snares,” did this album KC: Thank you! Absolutely. important to me and them. The too, so we were psyched to have Art Fredette I mean, I’m not forcing them in reward of that is so much more his talents on the post production Publisher any way, but my daughter is al- powerful than anything I’ve felt front, after Jeff Britton did all the Liam Sweeny ready a force on the stage and she doing anything else. in house production. We are hap- Editor-In-Chief loves musical theater. The baby RRX: This year Last Daze re- py with how it all turned out. Creative Director plays drums all day, every day. leased “Monsters in the River”. RRX: What Does the future Never a dull, or quiet moment in Shed some light on writing and hold for Last Daze? Any plans for Ralph Renna the house. It’s the best feeling, recording this record? 2020? Music Editor connecting with your kids over a KC: The songs feel ancient to KC: We are still unrolling song. me! I wrote a lot of the songs fol- singles from the new album, but Dick Beach RRX: Let’s talk about your ca- lowing my divorce, during a very have started writing new music, Staff Geek reer motherhood juggling those tumultuous time. I love them, and will hopefully end up record- with being a rock musician. but they bring me back to a time ing some new tunes, and get back KC: It certainly isn’t easy. when I was not really okay. We to a regular touring schedule next Contributors I’m not the only one juggling took a long time to make the re- year. the responsibility. I’m thankful cord. There was a time when we www.lastdazeband.com Rob Smittix that my family is supportive of almost thought we would never Debora Bump

Katy Cole Sassy Auburn Photo provided. Fred Aseel Jeff Spauling

George Glass

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Published by Imperial Broadcasting in conjunction with RadioradioX.com. Page 6 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Urban Cowboys Pack Big Sounds

Slik Nik & Tex’s Playboys brings a time honored country vibe to the mainstream. What is the risk of wild cityscapes of New York, and they’ll never apologize. going deep with the sound, and what’s the payoff? SS: The risk is always the same. Maybe people won’t like you. They can go see Skeeter Creek. RRX:​ With Radioradiox, along with Xperience, we’re try- ing to build connective tissue in the local music scene. You do that too, with a publication called Hey Greasy! I’ve seen it, and it’s pretty badass. Can you give me the who, what, when, where and why about Hey Greasy!? SS: About two years ago, I felt like rock n roll was having a real moment in town. I was booking more shows and an annual fest at

Photo the Fuze Box called Capital Trash provided Invasion, and a lot of new bands were coming into their own. In- By Liam Sweeny stead of harassing everyone with (l - r) Tex (Sean Secor) and Slik Nik posts and invites online, I decid- ed to make a showpage listing the love the blues. I play the in the greater scene, with a pub- hearing on a country or rocka- Garage, Psych, Rockabilly, and blues, I feel the blues, love lication called Hey Greasy! and billy record, like a bass or snare surf shows for the season. I leave I ‘em. This isn’t about the a few handy demons driving him drum, I don’t think it takes away copies at the record stores, coffee blues. When I think of country, from place to place. from the sound. It gives ev- shops and venues the gigs hap- I get torn sometimes. I like all I sit down with Sean and erything a little more room to pen at. kinds of music, but country is one we discuss testing the speed of breathe and be taken in. The kick Eventually I decided to book that goes deep. I was loading my sound playing on flatbeds. gets to really boom and the gui- shows under the name of Hey, diapers to Merle Haggard, Hank RRX:​ Slik Nik and Tex’s tars get to inhabit where the bass Greasy! as well. Williams, Willie Nelson and Playboys has a really pounding, might be in the mix, and the vo- RRX:​ Jumping off of the last Johnny Cash. So when I hear new chugging sound. It drives deep, cals are right on top. question; Hey Greasy is a great country, that’s my yardstick. and I listen to most of my mu- RRX:​ You all are country, but hub for a part of the local scene I just popped in Slik Nik & sic on good-but-small computer the kind of country I listened to that not everybody knows. Does Tex’s Playboys, and God as my speakers. Care to share any magic when my dad and my uncles were it stand alone or is it more a tip witness, they’ve got it. That deep, spells when it comes to getting a stopped off at some country road of the spear? If a new band came bar-filling sound, the twang, the sound that fills a space like this? dive and I made angels in the up to you and wanted to hit the voice – all there. And Tex (a.k.a SS: When you choose not to sawdust.It’s a different landscape circuit, are there any other things Sean Secor) is a renaissance man include things people are used to now though, with country being like Hey Greasy that they should September 2019 Page 7 Music Art Culture Revolution know about? anyway. sometimes. When I recorded and pocketwatches? Do you think SS: Superdark Collective is RRX:​ Now, Slik Nik & Tex’s mixed the tape, I barely touched knobs should come with elev- out there working harder than Playboys, from what I read when anything. Just use good gear, en notches? Enlighten, educate, anybody else putting on more I grabbed the album, is two peo- good mics and it’ll mix itself. I emote; the floor is yours. eclectic mix bill shows twice a ple and an occasional third, is hope we can do the big band (five SS: If nobody ever calls you, week, plus a radio show, podcast, that right? There’s ​Slik​ on gui- people) again soon, but it’s cool your phone is a pocketwatch. If monthly nights in Albany and tar, percussion and vocals, Tex to have a band with minimal re- your amp has more than four Brooklyn, and all their musical on lead and backup vocals, and quirements to be able to play. knobs, you’re one of ‘em. Bring projects. Ben Wessels coming in on harp. RRX:​ This is where you back River Street Pub. RRX:​ Playing balls-to-the- How do you get such a full sound get to answer the question I wall country around the 518, you with that ensemble? What kind of didn’t ask. What’s your take on probably don’t pigeonhole your- magic are we talking about? self into playing only the sticks or SS: That EP was all set to just only the city. Do you see a differ- be the two of us until Ben just ence in the way you’re received? happened to be in the area for Custom Creations Do you think there’s a bigger dif- a couple weeks. I recorded his Upon request. ference between rural and urban parts for fun but we ended up Capital Region, or between any keeping all of it. I feel like it really 193 River Street Capital Region and any some- gave us a Blasters vibe. As for me, Mindful Intentions Troy, NY 12180 where else? I’m used to being the only guitar www.mindfulintentions.online SS: We’ve only ever played in player in a band, so my playing Incense, CBD Products Troy, Albany, and Manhattan. takes a lot of space. In fact, it’s a Custom Jewelry (518) 545-8280 I’m more of an urban cowboy challenge to leave room for Slik [email protected]

HATCHER 16 Thatcher St, T Albany, NY 12207 ST PUB (518) 463-9214 Sat Sept 28th The Erotics Doors at 4PM w/ Noncompliants No Cover 21 Plus Vegan Delicatessen Happy Hour Student Discounts Available Mon-Wed Thurs $3 Domestic Bottles Free Pizza $4 Imports Fri & Sat 5-7 Tues 4-Close $3 Shot Specials TROY ALBANY 50 cent Wings Sat 4th & Ferry Street 227 Lark Street 75 cent Pool Page 8 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Eddie Munoz’s Double and Triple Life

Between playing in two big bands (and managing one,) RRX: The Plimsouls. You are both man- guitarist Eddie Munoz is in it full spectrum and at full volume. ager and guitarist. Most heads in a tour- ing rock and roll band end up becoming hat racks. Is being in those two roles a matter of convenience, or did your tenure in the band make it a natural choice? And do you have to make adjustments to the daily grind to han- dle it, or are they well separated? EM: I keep everything apart from each other unless they absolutely must connect. I’v managed and played in several bands, The Plimsouls being one of them, so it is no real big deal to do it again. RRX: The Split Squad. A real “band’s band,” it’s got roots in such other bands as the Plimsouls, the Parallax Project, the Base- ball Project, Blondie, Magic Christian, and the Fleshtones. How does a band like the Split Squad put out a fresh sound with all the opportunities it has to slip into familiar, but successful, grooves? EM: Basically because maybe we grew tired of the same old grooves and fall backs. Expansion of one’s creativity takes some ef- fort, but the results can be satisfying, al- though not enough most times to say “I’ll never have to work again!” RRX: You have a unique sound on guitar, unmistakable, really. And I’ve read that you attribute it to a “chaos theory” approach to rock guitar. Now, I’ll wager a guess and say

Photo provided. that it doesn’t involve etching fractal equa- Eddie Munoz, flyer for an Austin, TX fundraiser. tions into your fretboard before every show. So what are we talking about here? By Liam Sweeny current, sweet music pours out, and some- EM: Oh, it was just a silly thing to say, times this is just one of myriad bursts coming although I did at one time use a “smash ‘em ock and roll is a unique institution from cycles of mixes and matches. and bash ‘em” kind of style to my chording. where people possessed of a multitude Plimsouls guitarist and Split Squad singer RRX: Back to the Plimsouls. There’s a sto- Rof skill, talent, presence and style swirl Eddie Munoz has been adrift in the musical ry here, and it’s a very rock and roll story. It’s about in white water rapids that smell faintly wash for decades, and if you throw him a life the LA scene, late seventies, early eighties, of tobacco, whiskey, and sawdust, searching buoy, he’ll toss it back and keep swimming. and the Plimsouls are about to hit the main. for other people so possessed. When enough I sit down with Eddie and we talk about the What was it like then, in what I can only im- of these people catch each other in the rash of Abe Lincoln quotes on the internet. aging to be some pretty heady times? September 2019 Page 9 Music Art Culture Revolution

EM: Lots of fun, and lots of tips…educate, enlighten, emote; anxiety, too. the floor is yours. RRX: Now you are the longest EM: Each day is a gift. On standing member of the Plim- September 14th the Athens and souls. You’ve seen players come Austin line up of The Plimsouls’ and go, and you’ve felt the Plim- stable of random musicians will souls sound carried through the be playing in Austin TX at the years. Players leave their imprint. Continental Club doing a benefit Can you think of some specif- Memorial fundraiser for out dear ic imprints that have molded the departed friend, Woggles Guitar- band over the years? ist and first Bassist of the 21rst EM: Oh yeah. Grandmaster Century Plimsouls, Jeff Walls. Flash and the Furious Five, NWA, The Plimsouls appear to be mak- South Florida Funk, Soul mu- ing plans to do a show with the sic, Stax/Volt recordings, James Mighty Fleshtones sometime in Brown, Beatles (not so much from October, but it hasn’t cleared the my end) Stones, Most Brit Inva- decks yet. I’m gonna make a solo sion, old school country and west- record using mostly Southern • OUTDOOR DECK ern, 50’s rock and roll and Elvis! and Texas musicians. That’s it for • 15 DRAFT LINES RRX: Here’s where you get to now! • GREAT FOOD answer the question I didn’t ask. 403 RIVER STREET —TROY Shout0outs are good. Doling out Monday-Thursday: open at 4 PM • PRIVATE PARTIES Friday: open at 3 PM advice, laying down good grilling Saturday & Sunday: open at 2 PM www.RyansWake.com

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Lock 2 of the Barge Canal, 1950. Photo provided. RRX: The Erie Canal, for people not from around here, can be mis- original stretch and many other canals with- the Erie Canal, created by the junction of a leading, in that they make think of it as one in the state were created to connect to this state dam in the Mohawk River between Co- straight-line path from our area to Buffalo. waterway. Many opportunistic places had hoes and Waterford. Boats would often either Can you give me maybe a “birds-eye” of the offshoot canals run close by the Erie Canal to enter or exit the Erie Canal through use of the canal and it’s off-shoots as it would’ve been their businesses, like the Cohoes Power Ca- Champlain Canal side-cut locks; a “side-cut” used in it’s heyday? nal that ran alongside the Erie Canal and the is a term for a waterway connecting a canal AG: In its heyday, the Erie Canal was a Harmony Mill Complex, the largest cotton with a stream, river or another canal. Water- 363-mile stretch east that sprawled from the mill complex in 1872. However, the Cham- ford’s side-cut is visible today directly beside east end to the west end of the state in as plain Canal that connects Whitehall to Wa- Lock 2, repurposed to be a spillway. It was straight a shot as possible to make it as quick terford was built simultaneously and in con- one of many of such engineering features to – and profitable – a trip as the engineering junction with the design of the Erie Canal in allow many other later canals to be included marvel of the day would allow. It sparked 1817. It opened in 1823, earlier than the Erie’s in the canal that put “empire” in the Empire a canal craze shortly after its construction, official 1825 opening, and boats were able to State. with a series of enlargement projects to the take advantage of this waterway’s access to RRX: Waterford, Cohoes, Watervliet and September 2019 Page 11 Music Art Culture Revolution

Green Island were all a part of a 1900s and continued to be fre- instruments that they could fit there were inns, taverns, stores cultural landscape because of the quently heard in the streets in onto the small and packed boats and the necessary repair shops possibilities that came with water this area as late as the 1950s and (banjos, small guitars, fiddles). for canallers to stop at- lock ten- travel, in general, or canal travel, 60s. Northside connected the Often those stories were of the der buildings could also be gro- specifically. What was the culture French-Canadiens in Waterford oral variety, passing on folktales cers like the Weighlock in Water- like around Waterford? to those in Cohoes as a cultur- through song. These songs, much ford ran. “Classic Hall” on First AG: At the confluence of the al identity within Waterford as a of them having an undeniable Street in Waterford often offered Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, whole. The term still is used to- folk music feel to them, were typ- talks ranging from aeronautics Waterford developed long before day and it is a National Historic ically focused on the canal itself (hot air balloons) to seances that other “canal towns” as a residen- District, which includes the Wa- and living on it, “ashore” songs were open to the public for canal- tial and commercial location. terford Historical Museum and that were popular at the inns and lers to be entertained by, along Originally heavily Dutch in her- Cultural Center. towpath, and music that made its with acting as a theater with per- itage (which lingers still today), RRX: We’re an art and music way to the Erie Canal from other formances that any visitor would the canals later brought in Irish, publication, so we’re pretty big waterways and regions. The lyrics be able to enjoy (including a visit Italian, and French-Canadiens on all that entertains. If someone and portions of a melody would by sideshow performer General to the area in higher numbers – spent their lives on the canal, in be altered with time and adapted Tom Thumb in the 1860s). Like Waterford was also situated along and out of the locks, what did en- in certain areas to fit with their with travelling today, canallers the “Great Road” of colonial and tertainment look like for them? particular portion of the canal. could be lucky enough to stumble Revolutionary-era importance AG: A lot of entertainment There were songs similar in melo- upon local events too. so there has always been a cul- on the canals was the self-made dy and structure to those of Irish/ RRX: The Tugboat Round- tural mixing in this area. Shan- kind for boaters, usually in the Scottish songs, arriving later up brings tugs from all over the ty boats for families on the canal form of card games, stories, and with these immigrants in the late country, maybe even the world, to would opt to spend their time in music that they could play on 1830s and 1840s. In Waterford, Waterford. It’s a celebration of a Waterford as it was a safer, albeit tradition and a history, but since not always quicker, alternative The Waterford Museum and Cultural Center building was built in it’s an annual event, is it creating to continuing on the Erie Canal 1830 and moved to its current location. its own history? If so, how? Photo provided. from Cohoes to Albany through AG: The Roundup regularly Watervliet. These families could draws in record-breaking crowds be transient in nature, but oc- every year of people looking to casionally canallers would be get a chance to view both historic charmed enough with the area and modern tugboats. Regularly, and the locals that they would visitors to Waterford ask specifi- ultimately put down roots here, cally when the Tugboat Roundup continuing the ever-growing mix is and when the Parade of Tugs of ideas and traditions. A defining is supposed to occur from Alba- local cultural development large- ny to Waterford; it’s definitely ly thanks to the canal would be an event that has been making “Northside”, which is technically history for its assemblage of ves- at the southern most point of Wa- sels since it began 20 years ago terford. But it was north of Co- this year. Even our repeat visitors hoes, where many of the residents on the Erie or Champlain Canal here either owned or worked in from Canada check in to make the many mills there. And, it was sure they don’t miss this event. largely French-Canadiens who As much fun as the party is – and came to work on the canal and/ there are dozens of vendors and or in these mills and then settled a great farmers’ market and play in the area. French was spoken area for children over in the park as the primary language into the Continued on Page 19... Page 12 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

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33 Saratoga Ave, Waterford, NY 12188 • (518) 326 - 2739 September 2019 Page 13 Music Art Culture Revolution A Look Into the World of Mini-Tugs By Capt. Ben Grudinskas

ugboats come in many shapes and sizes, from Tmassive 18,000 horsepow- er bluewater rescue tugs, riv- er towboats, harbor assist tugs, big city fireboats, the full sized PBS illustrated Theodore Two, to bathtub bobbers. All are purpose-built and no two are alike. They can be built using con- lighting and sound producing the most and best use of its pow- Specific and recognizable ventional “rib and plank” con- equipment to generate the signals er and which captain can spin shapes include Great Lakes “G” struction with solid woods, required to rapidly talk to each his realistic steering wheel most boats, classic design New York laminated plywood, epoxy and fi- other without verbal communi- effectively to out maneuver his Central “railroad” tugs, blunt berglass, steel, aluminium or any cation.They feature towing bitts, opponent. nose towboats that push their combination that the builder is safety axes, towing hawsers and They are meant to be fun and 1500 foot barge combinations on proficient using. Cardboard and paint schemes to make them indi- they are. They can be seen taking the Mississippi River, Erie Canal duct tape are not options! vidual works of art. part in events and parades on the tugs with telescoping wheelhous- The finished paint schemes The interiors can be seen fit- water as well as being displayed es that enable them to pass under may be applied using exotic ma- ted with classic wood paneling, in landlocked parades, filming low bridges and newer harbour rine grade paint or a simple can distinctive steering wheels, GPS with the BBC organization in assist tugs with innovative pow- of Rustoleum if the color is “just systems and vhf radios for safety, Gloucester MA in an episode for er/transmission combinations. what the builder wanted”. sleeping arrangements are com- one of their series on small boat- Amongst this amazing display Propulsion can come from mon, and comfortable seating is a ing, celebrating the last sail pow- of power and maneuverability, many sources as well and in- must, at least for the captain. ered whaling vessel G. M. Morgan but not lost, is the “mini” tug! cludes electric motors, concealed All of these boats are trailer- in New Bedford MA , performing These small boats can be small horsepower outboard en- able which makes getting them for spectators at the New Bed- found in North and South Ameri- gines, small displacement au- to and from different events less ford Working Waterfront Festival ca, Western Europe, the Mediter- tomobile gasoline engines, tur- time consuming and more effi- while the big boats are forming anean Sea area, as well as Austra- bocharged diesel engines, and cient than that same effort re- their parade, as an attraction at lia and New Zealand. authentic wood fired steam quired by their big brothers. the year long Mystic Seaport’s fo- Mini tugs also come in many engines. Participants at the Tugboat cus on tugs, as well as just being shapes and designs. All of the support systems are Roundup, held after Labor Day a curiosity factor whereever they All are hand built from a few hand fabricated to fit the builders for the past twenty years, in Wa- go. available plans but the majority interior design fantasies, includ- terford New York, have traveled The captains and their crew of the builders use the “cut and fit ing the fuel tanks, vents and hos- from areas such as Detroit Michi- are always happy to showcase as you go” method. es, the cooling water pick-up and gan, Cape Cod Massachusetts and their creations and spend time There are no production cook- exhaust plumbing, the electrical as far away as Maryland. relating the trials and tribula- ie cutter recreational mini tugs, system and gauge layout and, es- The boats pair off in friend- tions they’ve endured in creating all are an expression of their indi- pecially, the coffee mug holders. ly “pushing” contests to vie for and finalizing these water-borne vidual builders interpretation of “Minis” have all the required bragging rights to which boat has what a tugboat should be. Continued on Page 40... Page 14 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Mame Fay’s Seedy Support of the Canal Trade

By Kathryn Sheehan since we did not enter the war un- til after Pearl Harbor and she was shut down by then. It is likely the ary Alice Fahey aka soldiers were WWI soldiers, who Mame Fay, was born may have relayed their stories in 1866 in Troy, NY. M throughout Europe, but not the Her bordello was along the strip South Pacific. of 6th Avenue row houses sand- One of the other interesting wiched between the Union Rail- myths was what did she actually road Station and the central look like. When people who said station for the Troy Police De- they knew her were interviewed partment. She was briefly mar- various witnesses said she was ried to a man named G.A. Bont- tall and blond, others said she er. By 1898 she had already been was short and dark, tall and thin, questioned in the death of a pros- tall and heavy, short and thin, titute who was found with her short and heavy, no one could throat slit near the back door of agree on what she actually looked Mame Fay’s bordello. Through- like. out the almost 40 years that she Her estate was worth al- ran the bordello, she was arrest- Photo provided. most $280,00 when she died in Mary Alice “Mame Fay” Fahey, 1866 - 1943 ed several times relating to her 1943. The women who worked house of prostitution. She was for her did not come anywhere finally shut down in 1941 by an 16 Beers and near making the money that she aggressive district attorney, Earl promised them they would make Cider on Tap Wiley. When they entered the when she recruited these young house to pull items for a public women. auction, the house was so filthy Mary Alice Fahey is buried in Award Winning that they destroyed all the fur- St. Joseph’s Cemetery in South nishings. The house was torn Burgers and Troy. For years she was in an un- down along with the rest of the marked grave until 2006 when a 2016 row in 1952. monument was purchased for her That was the reality. Urban grave. Wing Wars myths about Mame paint a differ- It is amazing after all these ent story. They play Mame up to Winner years the myths of the benevolent be like Belle Watling in Gone with madam persist despite evidence the Wind, sitting in a beautiful to the contrary. I am sure the mansion, having beautiful wom- stories will continue. en working for her and making a Book Your Private Party fortune. Legend also states that it Kathryn Sheehan is the Rens- was WWII soldiers who frequent- selaer County & Troy City Call Today! ed her house as they were pass- Historian ing through on troop trains and then told stories about Mame in 41 112th Street, Troy the South Pacific. Another error (518) 235-4141 September 2019 Page 15 Music Art Culture Revolution

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BOOKING FALL SESSIONS NOW Page 16 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Waterford Tugboat Roundup: Origin Story

Submitted by Mary Stalker could be had by all regardless – gathering. Rain had made a mud Waterford, Benjamin Elliot, Her- and then gave the idea his bless- pit of the site, unsuitable for a fes- bert P. Brake, Emil P. Johannsen, ing and his support. And Dick’s tival of any sort. Callaghan and Crow, Governor Cleveland, and K. aterford is not the only support would be critical – from Waterford resident Craig Falcone Whittelsey. Perhaps even more town to host a gath- the moment he gave the event the shoveled stone dust into the mud- people carried their commemo- ering of tugs. In fact W green light he was all in: without dy pond throughout the night rative TBR mugs up the street to Olympia, WA hosted a Vintage the hours and nights and week- creating a walkable surface for Keilty’s Emerald Isle for 50-cent Tugboat Show, Portland, ME held ends he spent making the event the morning. draughts. The 50-cents draughts a tugboat muster and New York successful over two decades the Seven tugboats participat- did not catch on as a tradition, City hosted their 27th annual Tugboat Roundup would not be ed in the first Tugboat Roundup. but the mugs are still available at Great North River Tugboat Race. celebrating TBR 20 this year. The event started, as every one every roundup. So when Capt. Stephen R. Wun- Another early supporter of the has since, with tug boat parade. Tugboats pull at the heart- der, standing in the wheelhouse event was Captain Bart Brake Callaghan recalls “Paul Norton – strings of the young and old. of the Tug Waterford, suggested a of Empire Harbor Marine. Says who had practically grown up on The event organizers discovered “tugboat rodeo,” John Callaghan, Callaghan, “he called me up and the state boats – was at the helm quickly that getting people to lifelong Waterfordian and then in his distinctively gravelly voice of the Tug Waterford as we head- show up would not be a problem. tug captain, thought Waterford – finally honed through a tug- ed north from Troy for Waterford. The event grew quickly. It became would be the perfect location. boat life well-lived – informed It was a treat for me to have him a two-day, then three-day event John had recently attend- me that Empire Harbor would be on board and great to see him at and stretched along the prome- ed a tugboat muster in Kings- well represented at ‘your little tug the wheel – I know it meant a lot nade up to Lock 2. Festivals stan- ton, NY as a crew member of the muster.’ Bart, like NYS Marine to him and I will always remem- dards like vendors, fried dough, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Wire, a Highway, grew to be an integral ber the look on his face. The look pony rides, and of course fire- regular Tugboat Roundup par- part of the event and it seemed on both of our faces was puzzle- works, have been added but at the ticipant. There he met other tug like it was the highlight of the ment, though, as we approached heart of it, it is still a gathering of captains and maritime industry year for him.” Sadly, Capt. Brake the Waterford wall from Troy, a bunch of tugboats - large and professionals, including long- has since passed. The family of leading a parade of 7 boats. Nei- small, old and new, commercial time Tugboat Roundup supporter Bart Brake continues to support ther one of us could figure out and recreational - and characters. Rob Goldman. With his new tug the event each year. The Round- why there were so many people Tugboat Roundup now fea- community connections in mind, up’s highest honor, the Bart Brake up on the wall at Waterford. It tures over thirty tugs and other John approached Waterford’s lifetime achievement award, is took us a minute to realize the vessels, dozens of vendors, live Canal Development Committee named in his honor. word had gotten out and they music, kids’ activities, demon- Chairman Dick Hurst with the The first Tugboat Roundup were there to watch the tugboat strations and more, along a half idea. took place on September 11, 1999. parade!” mile stretch at the Hurst Har- The waterfront was in the Planning began earlier that year, The plan was to have the bor Center at the gateway to the very early stages of its develop- as did construction for the prom- tug parade, open the tugs up to Erie Canal. This year the Tug- ment into its current state. Dick enade Waterford Visitor Cen- tours, and have a hot dog roast. boat Roundup celebrates its 20th Hurst, who would go on to serve ter (now the Hurst Harbor Cen- That one-day event – construc- anniversary. It is made possible as Harbor Master, was spear- ter). With 24 hours to go to the tion site and all – could not have each year through the support of heading the revitalization efforts. inaugural event– much of this been more successful, other than the Town of Waterford, the mari- Upon hearing the idea, he mused construction site was a mud pit running out of hotdogs. There time community, numerous spon- that he wasn’t sure people would with orange construction fence was very little advertisement, yet sors and volunteers. show up to see a bunch of old tug- running in all the most inconve- many times more people than This year’s Tugboat Roundup boats – agreed that a good time nient places for any sort of public expected turned out to board the is Sept. 6th through Sept. 8th. September 2019 Page 17 Music Art Culture Revolution Hooked on Fishing! Hudson River Fish Advisory - What you can eat, and how often.

By Diane Whitten lower, and so is the correspond- f you’re hooked on fishing in ing PCB levels in the fish. How- the Hudson River, you should ever, women of child bearing age be aware of the NYS Depart- I and all children under 15 years ment of Health (DOH) Hudson of age are advised to eat no fish River Fish Advisory, and the NYS from the Hudson River all the Department of Environmental way downstream to the NYC Conservation (DEC) Catch & Re- Battery. For women over 50 and lease regulation. Due to PCB pol- men older than 15 some species lution in the Hudson River which can be eaten when caught south accumulates in the fish, the DOH of the Federal Dam in Troy. Visit issued an advisory about eating www.health.ny.gov/fish for the fish from the river. The advisory latest, complete fish advisory varies based on where you fish, information. what you catch, and who you are. The DEC has designated the Diane Whitten is with the Hudson River between the South Cornell Cooperative Extension in Glens Falls Dam to the Federal Saratoga County Dam in Troy as a Catch & Release fishing area due to the high level of PCBs in fish. No one should eat any fish caught in this section of the Hudson River. Downstream of the Federal Dam in Troy, the pollution level is Page 18 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

Friday Over Under

Saturday Over Under

Sunday Over Under September 2019 Page 19 Music Art Culture Revolution

purely functional, that term for sometimes with a “canal scrip” this or that, but it spreads. I’m (an IOU) as payment before head- Waterford (Contd.) guessing canal life had its own ing back out on the canal unless language. Can you give us an ex- they were “mudlarked” (ground- also booths like the Waterford Canal, just like on the original ample or two of a canal expres- ed due to low water in the canal). Historical Museum and Cultural Erie and Champlain Canals, the sion, and what it means? With the emergence of the tug- Center that are there to introduce water for cooking, cleaning and AG: A canal language de- boats replacing the mules, the those interested to the local his- bathing would come right out of veloped along the Erie and the phrase “under steam” began to be tory and heritage. Other groups the canal. It’s no wonder that al- Champlain Canals, just like any- used to mean something was un- have set up booths dedicated to cohol was commonly drank by thing else creates its own jargon derway, boat or otherwise. It was offering visitors to the event to be most boaters given it was likely that might as well be a foreign also used to refer to individuals a part of their efforts to preserve much safer to drink in terms of language to those unfamiliar with who were “not under steam” due these historic tugs before the ves- risking picking up any illnesses. it. Waterford could hear gossip to “hauling too many wet goods”, sels are removed from the water- So, many lock tenders also ran “on the towline”, had its “hogees” which as can be imagined, indi- ways or otherwise destroyed. The saloons or stills for the boaters (mule drivers, often young boys) cated a boater may have had a lit- Roundup itself has really helped (that may or may not have re- and “jiggerbosses” (also young tle too much alcohol to drink. to reinvigorate Waterford to once mained in operation during the boys who would bring a “jigger” again redevelop itself and become later Prohibition years…). But, on amount of whiskey to canallers at This article has been edited a draw for visitors to explore and the upside to all the dirt was the intervals during the day) ready to for length. You can read the full enjoy their time at this section of food: often, goods being trans- assist with rentals of mule teams article on the Xperience blog at the canal. ported in barges was food, which along the Champlain Canal, and www.radioradiox.com RRX: When I think of tug- offered the crew easy access to plenty of locations where boaters boats, my mind conjures up “complimentary” snacks along could get some good “prog” (food) sooty faces, oil-stained hands the way. Game could be hunted and rough-and-tumble living. Do along the route when possible in you know of any interesting cus- early days, and there were butch- toms among tugs, either past or ers and farmers in towns along present? the way that offered a range of AG: This image is a great way fresh foods. According to a Wa- to introduce the history of the terford tugboat crewmember in canal and tugs to people. And it’s his retelling of his time on the warranted – tugs used coal af- canal during this era of tugboats, ter all to produce the amount of when short on money, canallers power necessary to move those would buy a can of tomatoes and large barges. Life on early tug- a loaf of bread (beer could then Call Joe! boats differed in cleanliness than be filled into those empty toma- the luxuries afforded today, such to cans later). Cooking was often Clean Outs: as readily available places to get done by stovetop by frying in a Basements, Attics & Garages clean water. Many early tugboat large skillet of lard, or boiling Hauling, Removal & Demo crews would have a barrel on water drawn from the canal. If 12 & 20-yd Dumpsters Available board their vessel that would con- you’re looking for a meal today, tain water from a trusted source. you can stop in town and sample We do it all! In a questionable move by some from local restaurants like those Most Junk Recycled of these early tugboaters, to pre- on Broad Street or Corcoran’s serve the sanitary nature of this Towpath Tavern in Northside. water they dropped a block of RRX: Every community, ev- sulphur in the barrel. For a good ery service, vocation or endeavor (518) (5865) amount of time on the Barge develops a language. At first it’s 237-JUNKwww.joeyjunk.com Page 20 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution The Hard Fought Path to Playing

Photo provided Tom Atkins at Lake George Beach Club. The struggle to learn the craft of music unites all who pick up an instrument in a war, and around the edges. It’s a great mix so lucky and to be able to be still of sounds. How would you de- performing music today. Playing Tom Atkins is in the foxholes. scribe what you do if you had to music thrills me to my core. To give what we could call “the ele- have been playing with the same vator pitch”? drummer for twenty years is an By Liam Sweeny going all out, blending a hand- TA: Well thank you, that’s incredible blessing. I have always ful of notes and beats like a cer- praise I love to hear. I’ve never been really lucky to make great f you’ve kicked your shoes off tain famous man from Kentucky been in one genre fully. Full gen- friends for a long time, but my for the day, and the beer in blends herbs and spices, to deliv- der, not full genre. My feeble at- drummer, Bob Napierski, is total- the fridge is a quick second er a sweet bucket of extra melodic I tempt at an elevator pitch is that ly my groove. from being in your hand ‘cause love. my band serves up a stewy gum- RRX: I hear that you were it’s five o’clock somewhere and We sit down with Tom Atkins bo of classic rock and shredded self-taught, and that you trained you want to hit that spot in your and talk turkey (or chicken.) punk with a dash of power blues. yourself finger-by-finger. So ears as well as your belly, the Tom RRX: You have a pretty inter- I love filling the air with a loud here’s a question from my inner Atkins Band’s got a jam for you. esting groove, something I can’t guitar and putting everything I guitar-nerd; was this your fret Frontman and band namesake pin down to any one genre, not have into it, and I try to focus on hand or your strumming hand, or Tom Atkins, bassist Mike Persico fully. Definite rock core, but some making every note be an honest both? And how did you go about and drummer Bob Napierski are blues here, jazz there, alternative emotional expression. I have been that? September 2019 Page 21 Music Art Culture Revolution

newsletter. Anybody out there TA: Everyone is technically you all get to go out in front of I completed while having a full- you think we should know about? self-taught. Someone might teach crowds and share what you’ve time job and being a father and And what is in your near future? you something but YOU make the created, what you love. Do you a husband. It was challenging TA: I was in Nashville this connection for you. It’s so funny have any shows that made all the emotionally because I know my past April and was blown away looking back at those first awk- work, all the practicing, worth it? guitar, but I am only beginning to by all of the talent in all the clubs. ward notes. It was my fret hand. I’m talking more than every show really learn my voice, what I can In a tiny club called Dee’s coun- I was so bad initially I thought does; one in particular? do and can’t do. And that was re- try cocktail lounge, I was blown maybe I’d have to learn how to TA: I’d have to say when my ally emotionally intense battling away by Jim Oblon. He is a top play left handed guitar because Band THICK opened for Blue the fear that I had to overcome as session guy in Nashville and his my left fretting hand was com- Oyster Cult back in 1999, that a singer, especially in today’s mu- skill on guitar was incredible. pletely uncoordinated. It was was one show that I am really sical entertainment environment His album Sunset was inspi- pretty clear, I am not at all a proud of. But as far as my own where “the voice” is more im- rational and I listened to it the “born” musician. I was terrified band, my first show in Montre- portant than the song or even the whole drive home. I play guitar of playing in front of a teacher. I al was exciting since it was the words. I am proud of my effort, for my friend Doug Lawler who had tremendous stage fright, but first Tom Atkins Band show with and I look forward to the next grew up in Rotterdam but moved the rush and thrill of performing, me as the singer, and we have one with greater confidence and to Nashville – Doug writes and once it’s on its on, I believe the done so many since then. We had I plan on working with a produc- puts out beautiful country music. phrase is “the ham is cooking.” a show at the Arsenal City Tav- er next time, one who knows how I have wonderful friends down Anyway, I am not self-taught ern in October last year that was to coach performances to be as in Newburgh area, Jason Cast- any more than anyone else. Ev- completely packed, wall to wall good as possible. It was also the erlin’s Old Stone Church has a erything that I can play today, I people; drunk people were danc- first CD where I knew my limits few of my licks on there, really had to really work at it. I was try- ing on my footpedals. I loved and hired a mixing and master- well produced record and good ing that 1, 2, 3, 4 warm up exer- every second of it. A hot sweaty ing engineer. (I learned from my friends. Jason’s band is Hillbilly cise, one finger per fret, and I was drunken mess. We were all hav- last CD “Guitar Wash” that just Parade, they are awesome. And really frustrated because it liter- ing a great time, some maybe too because I know my way around a I have some incredibly talented ally felt like I could not separate much. studio doesn’t mean that my ears musicians I have met at all my my fingers at all. I would try to For me personally, perform- are up to the challenge.) Vai camps and will be partying move one finger and all of them ing Little Wing with guitarist I can track what I need to, next month at NAMM (National would move. Eric Johnson, that was one for and leave the rest of the cook- Association of Music Merchants.) So one night after having the my tombstone – “Here lies Tom. ing to people who have all their Chris Stark (from Hawaii) writes guitar for a few months, I was He played Little Wing with Eric ear hairs. For my latest CD, Peter and performs beautiful instru- determined to get it done. I tried Johnson. He died a happy man.” Jones tracked all the songs and mental guitar music and we are so hard to do that exercise, for RRX: Recording in a studio was a real professional and did an playing on each others future so long that one night that I fell is like the famous Tolstoy quote incredible job with his mixes. My songs. I have a dear friend in asleep sitting down with the gui- from War and Peace, “It was the long time friend from my college Montreal Canada named Victor E tar. I woke up in the morning and best of times, it was the worst of days in Fredonia, Robert Kulh- who launched a new song earli- I was finally able to just move one times.” Everything comes out in man of Root Cellar Studios, did er this year, might be RadioRa- finger at a time. I had absolutely the studio. Last year you record- the mastering job of a lifetime. dioX friendly. One more to keep no stretching ability, I could bare- ed a CD that we had talked about The CD sounds so incredible be- an ear out for – Mick Hayes from ly go two frets with all four fin- on the blog, as well as your per- cause Bob and Mike and I really Buffalo NY – tremendous talent. gers. But I worked at it every day. sonal takeaways from the time did our best to perform on it, and I want to get him in our area for Now I still warm up with that. you’ve spent in the studio for that. Peter and Rob really displayed a show, I think he is top tier one Writing a guitar journal basically Anything to share? their talented audio skills. talent! keeps my chops fresh. (That’s the TA: It was the first CD that RRX: We here are a family, application I am working on.) I’d written and sang on all of the and we’re looking to connect our This article has been edited for RRX: One of the things I love tracks, and it was a real struggle long-lost cousins. We’re also look- space. For the full article, please about interviewing bands is that because it was also the first CD ing for stuff to put in the family visit www.radioradiox.com. Page 22 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Connections and Long Roads Playing 250 shows a year brings one into every club and juke joint in the lower forty-eight and beyond. Super-duo Sirsy takes to the highway in stride... and a beat-up white van.

Sirsy (l-r) Melanie Krahmer, Rich Libutti. Photo provided By Liam Sweeny I sit down with Sirsy and we discuss advancements in extra limb transplants. RRX: When I first heard Sirsy, knowing nothing else, I assumed ften, the mystique of a band starts before you hear that first I’d be looking up four people, or at least three. It’s that kind of sound. track. It starts with a fan who can’t get enough, whose voice But that sound is coming from you two. Was the two-piece arrange- carries across the diner and puts a cool sounding name in O ment the original intent, or was it a “happy accident?” your ear. Then one day you’re reading the paper, and you realize the RL: I’d like to say that it was all part of a brilliant plan. But I’d be band’s name is spelled differently than you thought it was, but you a liar. When Melanie and I first started writing songs we put together still might not go listen. Then, one day, you’re listening to the radio a more traditional 4 piece band: drummer in the back, guitar player, station, the cool one you know, and you hear them for the first time, me on bass, and Melanie up front singing. We played with some tal- and everything catches. ented, cool people, but we couldn’t find people we totally clicked with Sirsy is a duo and adding ‘dynamic’ wouldn’t be stretching things musically or that wanted to tour as much we do. After two years, four at all. Melanie Krahmer’s shape-shifting voice and anchoring drums drummers, and six guitar players we decided we needed to try some- (and drumstick-driven keyboard bass,) intertwine with Rich Libutti’s thing else. So I switched to guitar. Melanie somehow learned to play driving guitar and pedal bass to form something pretty damn epic. September 2019 Page 23 Music Art Culture Revolution the drums overnight (infuriat- MK: Recently, we came home ing!), and we found some creative from 3 months out on the road. ways to add in bass. Ta-da! Two We toured our way out to the piece band. west coast and back. Our first RRX: I don’t imagine it’s easy local show at home was at the to pull off the sound you do with- Saratoga Winery. It’s a favorite out being able to lean on other place for us. A really cool, inti- players, especially onstage, but mate space that’s family friendly. you do it all over the country on It was the first time we saw our the daily. Do you think that less local fans in a long time and there can go wrong on stage with fewer was a lot of love in the room. It players, or does it make the musi- felt like a big family reunion. cal gremlins, when they surface, There was a moment in the show even more of a nuisance? when we did a stripped down RL: I definitely think it’s a version of our song, “Brave and strength that there are only two Kind” (a song we wrote about the of us. We are both so in sync on first time I fought cancer). Rich stage. I can recognize the look on and I came out into the crowd Melanie’s face when she wants to and did the song acoustic and speed up or slow down or even the crowd sang along with us. I extend a section. We play togeth- didn’t even need the mic. It was a er so much that it becomes intui- beautiful moment and it made us tive. The gremlins sneak in some both teary eyed. There’s nothing times. We always tell people that like coming home! We actually we pepper in enough mistakes did a show there on Aug 23rd and just so they can tell it’s all being we raised money for the Sarato- played in ‘real time’, no loops or ga Hospital Cancer Patient Fund. backing tracks. (Who helped me so much!) All RRX: Most people can’t han- the money we raised helped local dle one instrument well, let alone Mel and Rich spend more time on the road than at home. Photo provided. cancer patients. We were excited two at once. It seems like one of to finally be in a spot where we those things that’s an art and a it becomes second nature after a at it yet. But that’s how you learn. could give back some of the help science. And maybe you can’t go while. I’m not on stage thinking You jump in and you keep prac- our local community gave us. It about describing the art of keep- about singing technique, drum- ticing and you keep going. Even- was about a year ago that our ing different roles “together and ming technique, counting beats, tually, it all feels totally natural wonderful friend Erin Harkes (a separate” on stage, but are there and thinking about the bass line and you don’t have to think about fantastic local singer/songwriter) any mental tricks that would help all at the same time or anything it as much. threw a concert at this same ven- someone starting out? like that. I’m just playing the RRX: Sirsy’s been on the road ue to help me make it through my MK: What’s that old joke? song and enjoying a moment so much your GPS probably needs second bout with cancer. How do you get to Carnegie Hall? with the crowd. It wasn’t always its own backup hard drive. Every RRX: You have amazing fans, Practice, practice, practice! It’s like that, though. When we first state except Alaska, touring for I mean, super supportive and na- kind of the same thing with mu- started this two person thing, we years on end out of a white van. tionwide. When people think of sical multi-tasking on stage. Rich scheduled a show two months So I imagine asking you for a rock and roll fandom, they think and I are lucky to get to play so out. Then we practiced at least road story might be less of a thing of the cheers and adulation, but very many shows together. We 12 hours a day, every day, until than asking you for a home story. there’s a deeper relationship that average about 250 a year. Plus we we played that first show. It was So, have you got a cool home sto- goes on, something that carries practice in addition to that. So, scary as hell and we weren’t great ry, a little 518 tale? Continued on Page 38... Canal Culture Before the eight-lane asphalt, before the iron rails that criss-crossed the country, water was the way of the where. Rivers like the Hudson and Mohawk, and canals like the ones that cut through Waterford, were the centers of the world for anyone not tied down. Tugboat Roundup Much of the old canal culture: its music, its customs, Waterford, New York even its rougher pastimes have ben lost. But every September, new muscle powers new engines and the 2019 canal story adds another chapter. Page 26 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution And The World Finds Itself in Her Song She brought her talent to The Voice and brought a big house down. Now singer/song- writer Moriah Formica sees a bright future walking the path of rock and roll.

By Rob Smittix Moriah Formica at the Radioradiox station.

ust like Game of Thrones, I Photo provided will watch it when the hoop- my eyes closed for the rest of the Jla has died down. I was the time, so I didn’t see that all of same way when all of the local them were turned around until I news were covering Moriah For- was done with the song. mica and Madison VanDenburg, RRX: I didn’t notice that. I wasn’t really paying attention. MF: So at that point I was like, But… I decided to listen and as I have decisions to make. soon as I did, I knew that I had to RRX: I mean you did a blind talk shop with Moriah. She rocks! audition, yourself. RRX: First of all, I’m excited MF: Yeah, literally blind. to meet you. RRX: Don’t get me wrong, Moriah: Yeah, you too. Thank I think coaching is great. May- you for having me. be it’s just the thing that people RRX: So, I personally don’t say when they get off that show really follow American Idol or that drives me insane but I hate The Voice very much. when I hear somebody say “They MF: I never did either before helped shape me into an artist.” I went on it. All I actually knew MF: Yeah, I don’t get that ei- about The Voice was that you sing ther. Somebody asked me, ‘has and people turn around for you, the show helped you form your- that’s all I knew. (Laughs) self into the artist that you are to- RRX: You had a four chair day? Has it helped you find who turn! you are as an artist?’ My honest MF: Yeah, that was crazy. answer is just a flat out no! I went RRX: So when Miley turns on The Voice because I knew who around that’s when you’re like I I was and because I knew what got it. type of music I wanted to do. I MF: That’s all I needed, was knew I wanted my guitar on stage one. every time and knew that my im- RRX: How did it feel age was going to be straight up afterwards? rock & roll. MF: I was just in shock. I had RRX: I love that. September 2019 Page 27 Music Art Culture Revolution

MF: I didn’t go on there be- songs by herself and a few with the world. I’m not a cocky person, all sorts of pop songs. And they cause I needed to find an identity, me at my Clifton Commons show. I don’t mean that like,… some were good pop songs. First of all, I went on there because I already So yeah, anytime we want to do people take things the wrong way, I wasn’t being transparent. People had one and I wanted people to something together I’m sure we like ‘wow look at her she’s say- know it. People can see fake and see it. I was just so unapologeti- will. ing the world needs her.’ Okay, to they can feel it and they run from cally me. RRX: It wasn’t like you were answer your question. I think it’s it. I just wasn’t happy doing it. RRX: So you’re eighteen just thrown together because you good to have a plan B but as long RRX: I believe in your dream. now. Are you done with the were both on these shows. as you don’t need it, you can put I think you’ve got what it takes. competitions? MF: I think a lot of people it on the backburner. Honestly, I MF: That actually means a lot. MF: One hundred percent, thought that and they’re sur- didn’t choose music, music chose RRX: Do you have any advice yes! prised to hear it. Because what me from the time I was little and for young people that have simi- RRX: Are you planning on are the odds? It’s a very weird sit- that’s just how it goes. It’s like al- lar ambitions? working with Madison again in uation but it’s how it went. right we’re doing this. MF: Be genuine, don’t real- the future? RRX: So thinking about a RRX: Yeah, so I started ly listen to what too many people MF: We grew up together we full-time music career, do you checking out your music and I’m say around you, like if they’re tell- were close even before we did need a plan B? like, oh she really rocks! ing you it’s not realistic. Unless music. So that’s why it’s so weird, MF: I think it’s good for ev- MF: Thank you you suck! (Laughs) we’re doing this together. So yeah eryone to at least think of a plan RRX: Don’t ever lose that. RRX: But even if you suck, we hang out a lot. She’s kind of B. But I don’t really see myself Doesn’t sound like you have any you should still do it. like a younger sister to me. We’ve doing anything else. I feel like it intentions on doing that. MF: You should still try and talked about writing together. I would be a disservice to myself, MF: I couldn’t. I actually tried do it, exactly. Stick with it, you just had her guest and do a few my fans, my family and honestly to go mainstream. I was writing need to have a lot of persever- ance and strength. There are going to be so many days where Moriah will be performing at Powers Park on September 8th. Photo provided your body’s not feeling it, you’re mind is not in the right place. Make sure you have a good sup- port team and be humble, that’s one of the biggest things. If you’re not, I don’t know what to tell you. No one’s going to like you, once they find out what your true character is. So just be honest, transparent, hard-working and be humble, is what I would say. Follow your dreams, I know that sounds cliché but do it. Seriously because that’s one of the keys to happiness.

Catch Moriah Live 9/1/19 at The Columbia County Fair (Chatham, NY) and 9/8/19 at Powers Park Music Series (Lan- singburgh, NY) or visit moriah- formica.com for more info. Page 28 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

September is National Preparedness Month

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Join Il Faro for: Every Saturday This Fall - 1/2 price Taco Tuesday Mac-n-Cheese Wednesday glasses of your favorite wine (red Steak or chicken tacos Chef-inspired Mac-n-Cheese. or white) from 8pm - midnight! every Tuesday night! Come and try the flavor of the week! September 2019 Page 29 Music Art Culture Revolution

We want to thank you for your business, your trust & your confidence these See you in September past five years. Michelle, Ashlee, Shannon & Jennifer

$10 oo for new clients Presents w/ Shannon or Jennifer for a color service. Sept. 5 Get ready for moon Hooch back to school! wsg Jaw Gems The Hollow, Albany, NY Beautique Salon Sept. 6-7 Eastbound Crescent Commons 1471 Route 9 Throwdown Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 383-3333 Irwin's Farm, Salem, NY Sept. 11 an evening with Holly Bowling The Linda, Albany, NY

Sept. 21 Start making sense A tribute to Talking Heads Putnam Place, Saratoga, NY Sept. 27 Now Blind Owl Band Serving wsg Useless Cans 333 Broadway Troy The Hollow, Albany NY (Inside the Quackenbush Building) Breakfast (518) 712-9099 For info and tickets, go to www.burritosquared.com guthriebellproductions.com or facebook.com/guthriebell Page 30 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Strings, Soul and the Sweet Unknown Guitarist and vocalist Erika Wennerstrom of the Heartless Bastards ventures into the solo world. By Ralph Renna

ased on a true story. The first few months of a relation- Bship can be magical. Biographical life changes lead to many peaks and spe- cial memories built. A connection forms so strongly that it seals the bond and we re- flect on it in years to come. The reason why fate brought us together; That saying, quote, movie, song, food, or moment. Even if you closed the car window on her fingers on the second date, she didn’t care. That is love! But only they know who, where, why and what it all means to them. Imagine one night, while laying in bed, a mature couple turns on the local public broadcasting channel. They too share the passion of quality educational programming. Little did they know that the music of the group Heartless Bastards would become a soundtrack and memory to their life together. Irony or fate? Since then Heart- less Bastards have released 5 records, major tours, and numerous television appearances. The band was 10 years plus into their career, Photo by Briana Purser. Erica Wennerstrom the momentum was building and the band decided it was time to take a break. Guitar- really inspired and wrote Sweet Unknown. much gratitude for what I have achieved with ist and vocalist Erika Wennerstrom became I thought it might be a nice change of pace Heartless Bastards over the years. inspired and released her first solo record to try something different. It has definitely RRX: Tell us about your life, your first Sweet Unknown, which has been keeping her been challenging to get my name out there. bands pre-Heartless Bastards? Childhood quite busy! A lot of folks aren’t familiar with my actu- music and memories? RRX: What prompted you to go solo? Did al name verses the band name. It’s been a EW: I grew up in Dayton, Ohio, and have you find challenges? lot tougher than I thought to get awareness wanted to be a singer since I was old enough EW: I’ve toured with the same team out, but it’s also been exciting to have this to think about doing anything. My moth- since 2009, and the band asked about tak- new experience, and it’s really given me so er got me a piano when I was around eight. ing a hiatus a couple years ago. Then I got September 2019 Page 31 Music Art Culture Revolution

share some highlights and from heard of Meow wolf in Santa Fe? that art brings people together. I That was my first instrument, recent shows? It’s hard to describe, but it’s mag- long for that human connection. and when I started writing music. EW: I have been touring a ical. Playing cities like New York, Writing a song where I express a Some influences that stuck with ton on this record. It’s actually Chicago, Cincinnati, and Austin, personal truth, and having others me from an early age are Aretha winding down, and I’m getting where I have had a long history relate to it I think is a remind- Franklin, Otis Redding, Jackson ready to record another one pret- of playing and an avid fanbase, is er to us both that we’re not alone Five, Bobbie Gentry, and lots of ty soon. A highlight was play- always a joy too. As far as mu- in our thoughts. And everybody soul music my mother listened ing Red Rocks for the first time sic scenes I’m a little out of touch might not relate to my songs but to. Also my aunt was a huge in- a few weeks ago with the Avett with that. I live in Austin and I’m that’s ok. I’m grateful for those fluence and very into folk mu- Brothers. That venue has been not sure I even have a grasp on who do. In a lot of ways I still sic. She would talk to me about on my bucket list for a while. I’m my own city these days. I don’t go don’t know where some of these Bob Dylan and Neil Young lyrics a friend and fan of the Avett’s. It out much . ideas come from. I feel blessed to as a five or six year-old, which is was a joy to play with them again. RRX: What vulnerabilities have inspiration and hope it con- funny for me to think about now, RRX: What city in the United have driven your creativity and tinues throughout my life. but it really stuck with me. I‘ve States is your favorite or has the why? RRX: When it comes to song- always been someone that grav- best music scene? EW: I used to feel like I had writing you seem very imagina- itated to melodies first, and In EW: I don’t really have one this invisible dot that guided me tive lyrically? How far into fiction my own writing I create melodies spot that’s my favorite. I think around and I didn’t really know do you travel for inspiration? first too, but my aunt made me these days my favorite thing is why I did the things I did. I EW: I might use imagery a lot, think about how what I said was playing random off the beat- wasn’t really sure what was driv- but my songs are very vulnera- important too. It’s always been en path venues and cities for a ing me so much to express my- ble and open. This last album I important to me to write from an new and unique experience. The self, but now looking back I think put it all out there. The album is honest place. quirkier the better. Have you I’ve always known deep down a lot about self-love and personal I had some severe shyness/ growth. And I thought why fear self-confidence issues growing judgement. When I am complete- up, and a lot of folks from my ly myself there’s no room for re- hometown find it hard to believe gret. I don’t really write fiction, I ended up an entertainer, but I but I have written a few wishful think it’s easier to get up and per- thinking songs over the years in form a song you’ve rehearsed 100 an attempt to manifest my own times then it can be to publicly destiny. I feel Iike that’s kind speak off the cuff. of truth too because it’s coming The first band I was in came from the heart. about when a friend asked me to RRX: What is next up solo ca- join and play bass. I said “I don’t NEW YORK-CENTRIC BEER reer? Heartless bastards or other know how to play bass” and she & SPIRIT SELECTION projects you are involved in? said “well you can probably figure EW: Right now I’m just focus- it out”, and I said “Okay!” That ing on writing music, and pretty was a group called Shesus. We soon I’ll need to figure out what started out as an all-female band, NAME THAT TUNE project name to put it under. I re- and later Dave Colvin joined on cently released a couple Townes drums and eventually was part of Van Zandt covers digitally. Heartless Bastards. I think per- For more info www.erikawen- forming in the background of that nerstrom.com band gave me the courage and ex- PUB TRIVIA perience to do my own thing. RRX: You have been tour- 54 PHILLIPS STREET, ALBANY, NY 12207 ing on Sweet Unknown, can you 518-462-0690 | OPEN FOR LUNCH DAILY! Page 32 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution

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452 Broadway Troy, NY 12180 September 2019 Page 33 Music Art Culture Revolution Page 34 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Ten Tips for Enjoying Your Tipsy Adventure

time to go. I’ve covered is shutdown. We work to pay By George Glass this before, so I’ll keep it rent and feed our families. short. If someone asks you to Please, don’t hurt us so you leave, just go. You might not can have a drink with your reetings my fellow pa- understand at the time and older friends. Again, what you trons and Industry Fam! Tales you don’t have to. Nothing do at home is your business. Today, I would like to dis- G from good ever comes from having As far as the bar goes, just cuss a subject, that many take for a discussion with the intent of wait. granted and ignore. It’s called bar the extending your stay. Trust me, 5. Please and Thank You. etiquette. Yeah, I know, believe Door we thought about it before I believe those are self- me, I’ve heard all the responses getting your attention and explanatory. to that phrase. “I know what that pointing you towards the exit. 6. There is only one way is!,” “That’s sounds like a ‘you’ 4. 21 and over. It sounds like to get a bartender’s problem.” “The customer is al- six pack from the corner store a no-brainer. But for some, attention. You need to make ways right!” “Just do your job and and drink at home. it isn’t. I can’t tell you how eye contact and follow with pour my drink!” Those examples 2. There is no universal many times a family has verbal communication. That’s are a drop in the bucket. If you’re service industry maxim. shown up at ten p.m. looking it. Sounds easy, right? If a looking for a great experience and Basically, there’s shit you to bring their eight year old whiskey slinger is making a fun atmosphere, please read on... can get away with at a in for a burger or ribs. If drink or working the POS, let restaurant or department there isn’t a separate dining them focus on that. Nothing 1. Leave the negative at the store. However, you won’t at room, don’t expect to be let makes a bartender more door. A bar functions best a bar. Example: You may get in. If it’s a closed family event grateful then a patient patron. as a place to unwind, relax, away with blasting your brat or during the slower hours If you have ever tapped your and have a laugh. It’s a good in aisle 6 next to the produce. of the afternoon, we are glass, yelled, or waved your feeling when you walk in In a reputable bar, not so usually cool with that. But, arms; you may be wondering and the door guy greets you much. In a bar, the customer a crowded bar is no place for why the bartender has warmly. Then you saunter up is right SOME of the time. Do a child. It’s an adult setting ignored you. Now you know. to the bar and see a smiling you deserve good service and with low inhibitions. Also, A good bartender will only face that is ready to make kind treatment? Absolutely! don’t expect a bar to be ok skip you for two reasons. your day a little brighter. Is it ok to treat bartenders, with your eighteen year- That crap and if you are too Seriously, find me someone servers, and bouncers like old designated driver in the far gone. Remember, negative who doesn’t have at least one they’re lower life forms? house. Sneaking sips is what treatment of bar staff will great memory with friends That’s a negative, Ghost a teenager does and I know get you nowhere but the and family at a local watering Rider. We decide who comes this from my own memoirs. pavement. hole. That’s what it’s all about in and how long your stay will Honestly, we can’t supervise 7. No whistling. We absolutely and why the bar concept be. You have to understand, your child with all the other hate that. FOR REAL. Have is universal. So, leave any to operate, we have to characters around. And for you noticed most bars have serious anger, resentment, follow strict guidelines those that try to get in with alot of shiny wood around? and desire for violence at when it comes to a patron’s fake credentials; what’s wrong At the very least, the bar home. Alcohol is proven to consumption. gambling is with you? Are you a heartless stand itself. There is a science amplify your emotional state. ok at the track, but not with monster? Do you understand to this ambiance. A sturdy No one is saying don’t come a liquor license. Many have the implications? You can be wooden structure reflects in after a bad day. But, if learned this the hard way. arrested with false ID. Worse, sound. That’s what allows you’re feeling combative, get a 3. When it’s time to go, it’s if you’re caught inside, the bar you to converse in a noisy September 2019 Page 35 Music Art Culture Revolution

environment. It also makes without our prompting. If ordering drinks doable you can do that, you will when the bar is three deep. always be welcome and fondly However, any high pitched remembered by staff. What sounds are like a dagger to isn’t necessary is lingering the skull. If you’re guilty of around, sipping your drink, this, look around next time. or calling for a ride well past You’ll see some heated faces. the time limit. Likely, we have Whistle while you work, but endured this loud chaotic not at the bar. locale for many more hours 8. Spilt drinks happen. than you. We need a break Unless you’re engaged in and want to go home at some horse play, spilling a drink point. There’s no reason for isn’t a barring offense. It us to ask you to leave more happens. Please don’t try to than once. There are other hide it or pick up broken glass bars or 24 hour diners where by hand. It behooves us to the fun can continue. If you clean it up so no one gets cut see a few people with full or takes a header. Let one of drinks at the bar when you’re us know and we’ll take care being rousted, it doesn’t mean of it. you should have another 9. Keep your shoes on. I too. These are the folks shouldn’t have to tell you that who waited all night for us it’s not good to walk through to get done and join them a busy bar with no footwear. for quality time. Bottom The hazards are many and line, when in doubt, refer to obvious. We don’t care if number 3. your dogs are barking from walking in those pumps or I hope everyone found this boots all day. Plan ahead and informative and useful. Thanks bring sandals. again for reading and remember: 10. LAST CALL. Probably Drink within your limits and get the most controversial topic home safe! 535 5TH AVE and the most confusing for patrons. Many bars have TROY, NY 12182 different definitions of last (518) 629-9501 call. However, there is one that applies to most and should be the patron’s go- HOURS to. When we say last call, it means you can get one MONDAY-THURSDAY more drink. We do this in 7 AM - 8 PM the spirit that you will finish FRIDAY-SATURDAY 7 AM - 10 PM said beverage in twenty SUNDAY - CLOSED minutes or less. During Certified Gluten-Free this period, please pay your Delivery Mon - Fri Up to 97% Fat Free 11AM - 3PM tab and use the facilities, No Artificial Colors or Flavors if needed. Then, depart Page 36 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Misery and Unhappiness Make Them Happy

From concentrated sadness to fleeing from Nazi disco auditions, like: think of your favorite dog metal band Frozen Heads drops a sound that is uniquely theirs, and that you ever had. Now think of someone kicking it and how that watch it float down the storm drains to clog the sewers. makes you feel. Does that make you feel sad? Good, now play. BM: You just made me sad all over again. JK: Like everything else, a lot of it is based on personal experi- ence or channeling a feeling to a certain extent. JS: We really like each other’s misery, in a way. BM: They sought a Nazi to re- place me once! RRX: Whoa, what do you mean? JK: We were up in the moun- tains and this guy was really scary, off the grid, there were kid’s toys everywhere, no children to be seen, wife watching from the house, we noticed after a while she was more or less hiding from him than she was from us. It was pretty creepy. JS: We went into his studio, we thought, “oh cool, nice drum set, nice amps, nice riser, nice (l to r) Bud Montesano, Jay Sebastiano, James (Krone) Photo provided. swastika fla…swastika flag!!!! Oh #$@&%*! Where are we?” By Rob Smittix Montesano (Drums) will help BM: I guess you’d say atti- James: We got to get out of shed a little light on the darkness. tude, there’s a really broad form here. ave you ever found your- RRX: So I listened to your of styles for every sub-genre of RRX: So to clarify, this guy self going down the rab- music and I am digging it. I read metal. was trying to audition for the Hbit hole of the internet a description of your band online JS: Slow tempos, layers, at- band, to replace Buddy? to discover new music? If so, I which says you play some type of mosphere, lots of misery and JK: Yeah, and he didn’t warn encourage you to dive deep with metal but I hear doom. unhappiness. us. We walk in and there’s the The Frozen Heads. The music is JS: Absolutely. RRX: Misery and unhappi- confederate flag, thinking hey quite different and hard to de- BM: The best heavy metal is ness in the lyrics or the feel? whatever that’s a grey area, I scribe but hopefully my inter- doom. JS: A little bit of both. When don’t want to touch. view with J. Sebastiano (Guitar, RRX: What is the doom we were working on some of the JS: But the iron-cross and the Keys, Vox), Krone (Bass) and Bud element? tunes, I said something to Bud swastika! You forgot the best part September 2019 Page 37 Music Art Culture Revolution though, the Nazi disco-dance houses, we both showered. JS: My daughter can beat both gonna do whatever comes natu- light show. He turns the lights off JS: And I don’t shower for any of them up. rally. Whatever sick stuff we hap- and turns on the disco lights, it’s more than like twice a week. I RRX: So direction, are you pen to brew up in our heads. all swirling around and stuff, it’s took two showers. trying to make any sort of state- JS: I like to leave it open to some kind-of bizarre… BM: What they are saying is ment? Are you trying to get a interpretation for people and let RRX: So I mean, do you still they showered together at each of message across? them figure out what it means. go ahead with the audition? their homes. BM: Well, I set the pace being If there’s one thing I hate, it’s all JK: We pretty much decided RRX: So rather than replac- the drummer and all but I try to these preachy bands trying to tell on our way out there, we were go- ing Buddy, did you call him right show up to practice so loaded that you what to think. We’re musi- ing to give this guy two hours and up after that and ask him to stay? I can only play heavily-handed cians you should take our word we had a safe word if it got weird. BM: That’s the funny part the and really slow. It’s music to beat for it. JS: Pineapple. next day at nine in the morning, I your face into the wall to. JK: We didn’t know if he was get a call from Jay. JK: On a more serious ap- Check out Frozen Heads Live armed or not. He had made refer- RRX: So you all have kids, proach, I guess it would be more 9/6/19 at the Low Beat (Albany, ence to guns. how does that work being in a music for the individual. I mean NY) or 9/21/19 at Pauly’s Ho- JS: We were sort of silently band? it’s cool if somebody digs it but tel (Albany, NY) visit thefrozen- communicating back and forth by BM: I love it, I share music in reality we don’t give a damn if heads.bandcamp.com for more means of gestures and eye con- with my son; I have no limits in anybody likes it or not. info. tact. I look at James, he looks at music with him. RRX: You’re making it for me; I look back at him and say, JS: My daughter loves weird yourselves. “you’re polish aren’t you? We anime-sounding ecstasy-techno BM: We’re not out to write should probably get out of here.” rave-music that the kids listen to hits, we’re not out for hooks, we’re JK: We went to leave and on YouTube, weird videos. I don’t not out for any of that. We’re just we’re packing up, he picks up understand any of it. But she’s Jay’s guitar and starts playing also got an excellent Black-Metal some song. It wasn’t half bad stream. but then he starts singing about RRX: How old is she? at sleeping with his cousin and go- JS: She’s nine. Goldie’s ing to Walmart. We’re getting out JK: She does some great art- of there. work too. COHOES JS: We were driving away so BM: She looks like a little an- MARKETPLACE fast down that mountain, I felt ime girl. 103 Remsen Street like I had cockroaches crawling RRX: How old are your boys? all over my soul. [Directed at James and Buddy] JK: He felt so dirty, when we BM: My son’s eleven. Saturday both got home to our respective James: My son’s ten. & Sunday $3 Domestic & $4 Import Bottles 1 - 8pm Everyday!!! Outside Patio Seating 10am to ’s $1.00 OO Any Vintage 4pm Appetizer With This Ad! Collectibles JTTavern Hours Furniture Sept. 7 & 8 Mon - Wed, 1pm

25 White St. Cohoes Thurs - Fri, 2pm Sat, 1 pm Goldie’s Pyrex Sept. 21 & 22 Page 38 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution Sirsy (Cont.) Continued from Page 23. all about being able to do the thing that makes you tick. We into the rough times. Can you Tickets Available on BrownPaperTickets.com have the crowd sing with us when speak on that any? we do it, because it’s become our “TROY, NY’S HIDDEN VENUE” MK: Yes! Totally! For Rich new anthem... our celebration and I, making music is all about of life. We try never to take for making that deeper connection granted that we get to do this for with other people. That’s the our job- this thing that makes whole point. We’re so lucky to us whole. So we want to shout it have met so many wonderful peo- from the roof tops every time we ple through our music. Our fans get to do it! become our family. They’ve not RRX: Today, the music that only helped us through two bat- spreads doesn’t spread itself. tles with cancer, they’ve helped We’re in a time when anybody fund our records and our tours. can get their stuff out, but there’s They’re the reason we’re able to only twenty-four hours in a day. keep going. We’re also grateful Between touring so much, stu- that a lot of our fans have told us dio albums, having a web pres- their stories and how our music ence, you guys have a great han- 675 RIVER ST, TROY, NY 12180 | (518) 272-9740 becomes part of their lives. We’ve WWW.THEHANGERONTHEHUDSON.COM dle on promoting your sound. been told that our songs have Any tips in this regard for the helped people get through their overwhelmed? medical issues, their relationship RL: The tip is this: be over- issues, their emotional stress... whelmed. We are overwhelmed that it’s been played at their every day, but that’s what it takes weddings, their birthdays, their when you own and run a small vacations, their road trips, their business. Talk to anyone that dating life... that it’s kicked them ever made that leap to being their into gear when they need to make own boss... food truck owner, ac- a change in their life or when countant, landscaper, whatever their training for a marathon... so your gig is. Bands are no differ- many ways. We’re so honored to ent than any other small busi- be a part of their lives. ness. Every time you sit on the For us personally, the fact couch to watch TV, your mind is that we’re able to make music yelling at you, “You should make is what keeps us whole. When I that Facebook ad, you should be was fighting cancer the second fixing your amp, you should be time, we were out of work for 4 answering these questions from months. Not being able to make Xperience Monthly!” You have to music made us both feel like we be ‘all in’ to make it work as an weren’t ourselves, like we were indie band. If you love it, like we lost. When we were finally able to do, you find the time. play again, we wrote a song called RRX: This is where you get to “Like a Drum”. It’s a rocking , answer the question I didn’t ask. upbeat song of celebration that’s September 2019 Page 39 Music Art Culture Revolution

Any good places to practice sword Morro Bay, CA . Life changing. fighting? The right fuel mix to get MK: So healthy, Richard! For from Boston to Boise? Educate, me it’s all about the ice cream. If enlighten, emote – the floor is you ever find yourself in Nash- yours. ville, try “Mike’s Homemade RL: Let’s talk fruit. One of Ice Cream”. They make it on the best aspects of touring this site. The red velvet cake flavor is country is experiencing different amazing... there are chunks of things. Best orange you will ever freakin’ cake and cream cheese eat can be found at Glass Farm on frosting in it. I mean, hello! Rte 41 between Atascadero, CA &

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By Jeff Spaulding from praying. I start yelling, “’Ed’, you called Capitaland radio legends I could ast time we chatted about I snuck over them, prepared a him ‘colored’, you called him call right now, and when they wild, crazy and wacky radio record to play, set the monitor to ‘colored’!” picked up the phone, I just say Llisteners. “11,” and while directly over them, He turns to look at the phone “butter”, and hang up, they got it. To reiterate, every story was I started playing “Born to Run.” and says “Are we getting com- Recently, an old friend (and true. They jumped so high and so plaint calls?” now co-worker) got a “Welcome This time, the stories remain close it almost caused me to be We weren’t. to the Company “gag from me. all true. damaged for life. He then says “Well, one of two I was going to leave the gag in But these stories pertain to Amazingly, to this day, we are things, no one is listening, or no his mail box, but they never gave wild, crazy and wacky former (?) still friends. one cares.” him one. radio co-workers. My first full time radio job was The final story is actually leg- RULE NUMBER ONE-There I start with my college radio in that same college town, I was endary in the Capital District. is NEVER a gag that should not station from the Buckeye State. an “All-Night Country DJ.” It involves a female air person- be played on one if it involves (Again, no names, cities or call The guy who preceded me, ality who was hungry. money. letters). we’ll just call him “Ed,” was a As a matter of fact, she was al- It shows them you care. As staff for the college radio very odd duck, a slow talking, low ways hungry. So, I got a box, put my gag IN station, we all had to “volunteer” talking hillbilly, who had a way of She had a gastric system larger the box, went to the post office to show up early on a Sunday making you believe everything he than the Grand Canyon. and PAID to have it mailed to morning for what was called the told you. Late one night she was at work him AT WORK! “Church Shift.” When he talked about “dat- and she was hungry (again/still). When he got it a few days later, That meant running a couple ing” a goat on the farm, I believed She searched the ENTIRE ra- he opened the box up…. prerecorded Christian Music pro- him. dio station, and the ONLY food In the box, was an empty box… grams, followed by a live broad- When he talked about “prepar- substance in the building was…a Of butter… cast of the local bible thumper ing a chicken:, an act so rough it stick of butter… Immediately I was caught. church service, which was VERY killed the chicken a week later, She attacked that thing like a Worth every penny. boring. turning it into the main course of Kardashian. Remember, I have been a You hit a button, get the broad- a chicken dinner, I believed him. Right down to the lip smack- broadcaster for well over 40 cast on, that’s it for at least an One night I am getting ready ing and finger licking. years, I have DECADES of stories hour. for my show and “Ed” is introduc- The problem was, much to her to share. One Sunday I was to start my ing the newest song from Charlie surprise (and this HAS been veri- Next time, a lost art, how to “regular music shift” at noon. Pride. fied), there WAS a co-worker hid- play pranks on co workers to I walk into the building, the Pride is African American, and den in the building who saw the make them “lose it” on the air. church service was done, the “off” next to Darius Rucker, the most entire stick vanish from site. Be hearin’ ya! button from the church had been famous black man in country Of course, there was denial, hit. music. but in time the legend was born. Dead air. He is also known as “Country Do you remember a television As I walk into the control Charlie Pride.” commercial for Parkay Marga- room, I find the “volunteer” and One night, “Ed” introduced rine that had a little tiny voice his girlfriend sound asleep on the him live on the air as “Colored say “butter,” followed by a LOUD floor, missing numerous articles Charlie Pride.” BOOMING VOICE that said of clothing. I immediately have a massive “PARKAY”? I don’t think they got that way bowel movement. There’s any number of Page 42 September 2019 Music Art Culture Revolution September 2019 Page 43 Music Art Culture Revolution

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By Sassy your eyes and mind open for necessary – You just found ways to take a super sale set this super cute neon green top ccording to the calendar, Sassy and make it into a look just with glitter wings on sale for summer is starting to for you. only $2 . Your first reaction Awind down. Of course, the Says 2. Consignment & thrift is, “OMG! I LOVE it! I have weather may not feel like it is, but shops are your friend to have it!” Awesome for you. by looking for sales at your retail stores will quickly remind – “One man’s junk is Now, ask yourself one thing: favorite stores. You may think you that fall is just around the another man’s treasure.” How many times will I wear that classic rock tee that is on corner. It’s hard enough to pro- This statement is SO true! it, and what looks can I put sale will be too cold to wear cess that back-to-school supplies You can find some amazing it with? If you can only think in the morning, but it actually are already in center aisles of pieces of clothing as well as of one or two outfits, it’s not may not. And if it is? Throw a every department store, but now accessories at consignment worth it. Don’t confuse a deal flannel over it or a cuffed old they are even unpacking Hallow- shops and thrift stores. Not to with an impulse buy. That $2 shirt. Taking clearance tops een candy and fall decorations to mention, if you are familiar could be put towards a pair from summer and layering put on display. Prepare yourself with designers and brands, of earrings or shoes that you them with leftovers from for pumpkin-scented everything. this puts you a step ahead might use numerous times. last year can give you many Ugh. of many others. You could Shop smart. “new” options. Don’t forget With autumn being the next spot a great pair of jeans by a 4. Know your size & your about accessories as well. season we face, that means it is high-end designer for pennies style – Many times, a hidden Layer different bracelets, also time for many of us to re- compared to the original rack treasure is found only to stack rings, put heavy chain assess our wardrobe for a new price. Take advantage of these realize that it is a size too necklaces around boots, or school year, college semester or hidden steals, especially on small or too big. Never use even take a clearance pair of even just cooler temperatures. classic items that never go out the phrase, “I will just lose jeans and fray or color them Summer can be draining on our of style. a couple pounds” or “I think for a new look. Then keep wallets with the vacations and 3. Cheap does not mean I can make it shrink”. Know getaways we took, so there might not be a lot of funds left over to put together a new look for fall. There are many ways, however, to get yourself looking fresh without dropping some major coin. Here are some tips and tricks to jazz up your closet without breaking the bank:

1. End of season sales – Just because new fall fashions are out doesn’t mean the temperatures are going to drop 50 degrees by mid September. Take advantage of the summer clearances whenever possible. And start September 2019 Page 45 Music Art Culture Revolution

what your size is when you good friend with you. Use the go out shopping and start by mirrors, take selfies and ask looking at those sizes first. for opinions! There are times when items A change in seasons does not like consignment clothes have to mean a huge change in may have been stretched out your bank balance. If you plan a bit or even shrunk a little what items you want to add to already. To make sure they your fall ensemble, you can go fit you well, try things on out and look for the best deals. first. Also remember what Don’t forget to look for accesso- colors look good on you, and ries (sunglasses, jewelry, scarves, what items you have at home backpacks, etc.) to jazz up ex- already. Try to pick pieces isting fashions that you already that can work with sets you have, and check out clearance have already, to kick them up shoes that just might be the a notch. Also check the store’s standout piece amongst them all. return policy. Just in case. Research to see what is hot this 5. Take A Risk! – Step outside season—and what is not—and see of your comfort zone when how you can integrate some of it comes to fashions you these design-forward looks into may not normally wear. your closet. Be proud of who you You may be surprised what are and the style you embrace. styles and colors are out in Own it… then rock it! the mainstream that you Chowderfest don’t think are for you. They may actually look awesome! Read a few current fashion After Party! magazines to see what is trending for the upcoming w/s/g season. See if you can create a similar look to your liking. THE CHRIS And if you really want to BUSONE BAND try stepping out of your comfort zone but are just super nervous about taking a fashion plunge? Bring a Doors at 4PM Oct 13th PRESENTS Advance tickets @ Brownpapertickets.com The Ale House, Muddaddy Flats and the River Street Beat Shop

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hand-painted. He went back to “Yeah,” Tommy said. “My bud- By Liam Sweeny school, so-to-speak, and put all dy was in here earlier. Saw a ped- of the filters and attenuators and al; orange and glitter, psychedel- Liar’s parlor trick circuits he could into ic. Used, just came in, I guess. I ommy slid his hand over creating something that could had him ask you guys to hold it?” his right cheek and heard Almanac make any amp crystal clean. And “Let me check.” He hopped in the crinkle of the rolled-up T melodies over a Chicago blues in return, she made him stop the back and Tommy could hear paper nestled into his back pock- riff. Those in the know called him using pedals himself for three voices. He came back out with the et. Parkway Music had moved the Tone Wizard. months to play with her everyday pedal that didn’t seem to age. up the street a way from where There’s a lot to be said about by the river with two acoustics. “It’s busted. It doesn’t work it was when he was just another a clean guitar sound, and the His eyes swept over the pedals, right now,” the kid said. “If you note-hungry soul. Before Aman- world teemed with the ministra- caught the glint of chrome knobs want to come back,” da. Before her last gig. tions of acoustic players. But you and white notches and names like Tommy pulled the sheet out of They’d moved up in the couldn’t find a cafe on the moons Big Muff Pi and Tube Screamer his back pocket and unrolled the world. He walked in the inner of Jupiter with an acoustic. And and OCD. A lean kid in a white schematic. door not knowing what to ex- every amp had only a set range of T-shirt was polishing the fret- He popped his debit card out pect, whether he’d feel like Norm sounds you could get out of them. board of an unstrung guitar. of his shirt pocket. from Cheers or a crackhead at a So if you wanted that sound, “You need anything?” “As is?” pay-by-the-hour motel. Turned you’d be looking for help. Maybe out he couldn’t tell, because his if you were in the know, you were eyes went west toward a wall of looking for Tommy. goodness, the land of maple and He got it. He saw the ‘electric’ rosewood; a nickel-plated, cop- in electric music. He went to tech per-wound nirvana that took him Hours of Happy school, and his toolbox indeed away from the frantic call he got Hour had gear label stickers on it. He Operation that night from Amanda’s bass took beat-up, junky effects ped- Mon - Sat Mon - Sat player, when nobody knew how Open 3pm 3pm - 7pm als that would’ve scored a dime bad the crash was. All Day bag in a pawn shop trade, and Sun 11am Tommy had business, much for Brunch Sunday he modified them into the sonic as he’d have liked to plug in and equivalent of a Faberge egg. callous his fingertips. Down the Sort of funny, then, how 2nd Anniversary Party with Han Solo center aisle were the display cas- Amanda was so diehard anti-ef- Come celebrate with us! es where the tops hosted guitar fects. She was all about the pure repairs and every conceivable ef- tone, and she sung its praises 9/14 - Pearlpalooza After Party fects pedal, new and used, filled one night at their mutual friend’s 9/21 - Largest Party! their mirrored shelves. house, completely unaware of Tommy was a good guitar 9/28 - Oktoberfest Tommy’s nickname and rep. player before he gave it up, as in He had to think their love he played, and once in a while sprung from her guilt about Nerd Beer and Dope Food someone would ask him to jam smearing his passion. He suc- out or join a band. But the peo- for Reals ceeded in making her a pedal, ple who really knew him wouldn’t an orange-glitter, high-gloss, 942 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207 waste his talents on blowing lead psychedelic design that he

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