Xperience Monthly – March 2019

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She’s Back! After a five year break from the local music scene, Niki Chaos is making up for lost time.

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Photo provided Joe Mele, center, poses for a picture with his wife, Patti, and their son, Dustin, prior to Dustin’s death in 2013. A Day to Remember Mele reflects on life in music on eve of very personal concert By Ralph Renna in the industry, with a resume of accomplishments On the Record anyone would be proud of, especially being from Troy, Troy’s River Street Beat Shop is a hotbed not only for Troy is a blue-collar town whose residents’ bragging of course. vinyl collectors, but rights stem from their pride in Uncle Sam. What came next was completely unexpected, and loyal musicians the guitarist’s life froze when his son, Dustin, suddenly Page 16 Families from all over the world settled here hundreds of years ago to start new lives. As they made committed suicide. Life would change forever for Joe friends, special bonds were formed. Extended families and his family. As devastating as the tragedy remains grew bigger and bigger, and although bloodlines ran in six years later, out of it was born a new purpose for Features different directions, loyalty to the Collar City remained Joe’s music. Along with his wife, Patti, and daughter, true. Lindsay, the three came together in Dustin’s memory, The Loud Hours ��23 Over the past 40 years, Troy has remained a prime and Joe’s extended family of musicians were more than Undercovered ��25 location for movie shoots, the arts and, of course, a wide willing to help find some good in the soul-crushing pain. Sassy Says ��26 spectrum of talented musicians. No matter the genre or Every year since then, The Dustin Mele Memorial Liar’s Almanac ��27 sound, there is an immediate respect and bond formed Concert has used music to help a family – and a com- Band Listings ��28 among musicians from Troy. munity - heal and remember, while also helping spare RadioRadioX shows... 29 If you were to ask around town, one name likely to other families of the inescapable torment The Meles Between the Lines ��31 be among the first to be mentioned would be Joe Mele. have faced since Dustin’s death. As you will learn, Joe has taken big steps and rubbed el- bows, Strats and Les Pauls with some of the top names Continued on Page 4 Page 4 March 2019 British Invasion led Mele to music career Continued from Page 3 and hung with Sly from Sly and the Family Stone. RRX: Let’s discuss your earliest When I returned home, I formed memory of wanting to play guitar. the band Merlin’s Minstrels and start- Be vivid, paint a picture, tell your ed playing clubs. The drinking age story. Where and when did your life was 18, and from that point on, I was as a musician begin? playing five or six nights a week until Joe: I got my first guitar as a disco hit in the mid ’70s and clubs present from my parents when I was started booking DJ’s over live bands. 10. I used to listen to WABY-AM I moved to New Jersey and radio on Sunday nights, R&B music. formed a band called Devon Kid. We My pre-British invasion influences got signed by Warner Brothers and came from Duane Eddy, the Ven- were managed by Dee Anthony, who tures and early blues stuff, such as was also managing Joe Cocker and Robert Johnson and BB King. Humble Pie. We played showcases My younger brother, Dave, got all over New York City and recorded drums a few years later. We formed two albums over the next year. a band when I was about 12 or 13, I wound up going to Los Ange- with childhood friend Denny Mof- les with part of the band. In 1976, I frey, called Grand Prix and started got a call from Doug Jacobs to help to play school dances and block open a club, form a house band, parties. When I was 14, Denny and and install my sound system. This I saw the Beatles at Shea Stadium, club was the legendary J.B. Scott’s my first concert, and it changed (in Albany), and I stayed to be the everything for me. house sound engineer and play When the British Invasion hit in shows for the next year and a half. the mid-’60s, everything changed. During that time, I was working In 1968, I moved to Brooklyn and with up-and-coming acts such as played the Jersey shore. We were Ramones, Annie Lennox, Tom Petty, living and crashing at the bars we Buddy Rich and many more. played in. That summer, I went to I’ve toured extensively, playing Photo provided London for a few months, at the shows across the U.S. and Canada, Guitarist Joe Mele has played at many of North America’s most presti- peak of the British invasion, experi- performing in bands at the presti- gious venues over a career that began when he formed a band with his encing it firsthand. It was there I met gious New York, Boston and younger brotherin the early 1960s.

Publisher: Art Fredette Editor: Mark Robarge Associate Editor: Liam Sweeny

Mailing address: Online: radioradiox.com 35D Saratoga Ave. E-mail: [email protected] Waterford, NY 12188 Phone: 518-326-1673 March 2019 Page 5

Chicago Blues Festivals; Buddy Guy’s Legends nightclub in Chica- go; House of Blues in L.A.; House of Blues in Boston; New York’s Manny’s Car Wash, Kenny’s Cast- aways and The Bitter End. Recording and studio work includes development work for producer Dee Anthony and many independent record labels. While performing with Janelle Donovan at the Blue Bird in Nashville, I recorded with Billy Cox (Jimi Hendrix’s bass player) for Gene Golden, who was musical director for Kenny Rogers. I’ve shared the stage with acclaimed artists such as B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, Derek Trucks, Alan Woody, Warren Haynes, Dickey Betts, Dan and Frankie Toller, James Photo provided Cotton, Joey Molland of Badfinger, Members of Soul Sky, including Joe Mele, second from left, perform during the 5th Annual Dustin Mele Memol- Terry Sylvester of the Hollies, Billy rial Benefit Concert on March 11, 2018, at Brown’s Revolution Hall in downtown Troy. Kramer of The Dakotas, Savoy and reuniting Emerald City after a Boys and Girls Club, the Compan- Soul Sky ... has participated in Brown, Joan Osborne, NRBQ, Or- 30-year hiatus. ion Animal Placement Program, the the past three memorial concertsand leans, Dr. John, Little Feat, Lonnie RRX: The annual memorial Troy Music Academy Music Schol- will be joined this year by guests in- Mack, New Riders of the Purple concert utilizes music to raises arship Program and the Rensselaer cluding Tony Perrino, Johnny Rabb, Sage, Johnny Johnson, Dave Mason, awareness and money for mental County Heroes at Home project. Graham Tichy, Donna Tritico and Charlie Daniels, and Vince Gill. illness and suicide prevention. What : We know that there is a big Luke McNamee. I also participated in clinics with RRX drummer Carmine Appice. organizations have you have donat- family of musicians here in upstate Super 400 is Troy’s power trio, A large part of my focus now is ed to over the first five years? New York, but how are all the acts featuring Kenny Hohman, Lori Friday with my son’s annual memorial con- Joe: Proceeds from this year’s playing this year’s memorial rele- and Joe Daley. Joe is a family mem- cert. I am so fortunate to have the Memorial Concert will support vant? ber, and Kenny and Lori are close support of the local music commu- three organizations, the American Joe: Every year seems to get family friends, and they have played nity, family and friends. Foundation for Suicide Prevention, bigger. This year is extra special and supported the event each year. RRX: Let’s talk about Emerald National Alliance on Mental Ill- because Bobby Etoll, a childhood Emerald City has also played City, other bands and current proj- ness and Rensselaer County mental friend, will be joining us from L.A. each year, with Ed Powers and Gary ects. health and emergency assistance for a one-time-only reunion of the Tash expected to join them. Joe: Emerald City, I’ve been programs through Catholic Chari- Bob Etoll Group. RRX: Do you have any advice playing with Gary Brooks and Dave ties’ CONSERNS-U program, all in The band is led by Bobby, a both musically and personally, that Costa since 1970. To look over at memory of Dustin. longtime resident of Los Angeles, may help someone? the side of the stage and see these Past annual concerts have raised where he founded and built the Joe: I feel that music heals. It’s guys, they are family. Playing with over $50,000 for Capital Region successful and widely acclaimed a blessing to be able to play music Soul Sky with Mark Emanatian, not-for-profits. The American Q-Factory Music Library. He is one and raise money to help people in I’ve been playing with Mark off Foundation for Suicide Prevention of the world’s leading composers need and not-for-profit organizations and on for 25 years, going back to credited the Dustin Mele Memori- and music producers for trailers, that help people - and sometimes when Mark and I played with Ernie al Concert as the top fundraiser in documentaries, TV theme songs and animals - in the Capital Region. I Williams. Mark has become one of upstate New York at AFSP’s largest animated series. just recently played a benefit for the my dearest friends. He offers me annual event this past September, Bobby grew up in Troy and is Hudson-Mohawk Humane Society. support, comfort and works diligent- the 2018 Walk for RITA, which very excited to return after 25 years ly on the memorial concert. raises money for suicide awareness, to reunite with his old bandmates, The 6th Annual Dustin Mele Me- I’ve had great runs with bands suicide prevention and family sup- Peter Iselin (keyboards), Chris Ga- morial Concert is scheduled for 6 playing locally and touring the port programs. rabedian (drums) and Joe Montar- p.m. Saturday, March 9, at Brown’s U.S. with great blues legend Ernie Past memorial concerts have also ello (bass), as well as some notable Revolution Hall, 417 River St. in Williams and Mark, Burners UK raised funds for the Lansingburgh special guests. downtown Troy. Page 6 March 2019 Growing A Creative Downtown

Photo by Sandra Hoyt/Shutterstock.com Downtown Troy is one of several local examples of developing a vibrant arts community to foster sustained downtown growth. By Robert Millis Opinion Cities looking to he trendy thing among local and regional tain breed of cat – which he dubbed creative economy planners across the nation is the development workers. How? Not by the traditional carrot of firm- build or sustain of arts-based economies within their individ- based incentives, but instead by the presence of a so- ual jurisdictions. cial, cultural and lifestyle climate that best mirrors and their economies TWe know the drill by now: Incubate and nurture soothes this target group’s desire for experience-based local artsy types, along with their supporting nonprof- fulfillment in all aspects of life; not just work. After can find several its and, voila, communities become well-positioned to hearing this whistle, the hounds were unleashed. finally turn the corner in the long and painful transition Its subsequent critical and peer pushback notwith- examples in their to a thriving post-industrial future. The formula’s sim- standing, Mr. Florida’s scholarship begat a new and plicity is as appealing as its promised outcome. loud chorus to be chanted by economic developers own backyard of Community developers seem to have become coast to coast: Make and keep the nerds and hipsters part-time arts developers … and vice versa. There are happy, and the jobs will follow them here. Easy, right? how the arts can probably a lot of dual degrees out there now with those But, as always, proper execution becomes the key to majors listed on them. the mint. provide a huge The origin of this new age approach is known: The typical local strategy for achieving this goal is Richard Florida’s 2002 book, “The Rise of the Creative to approach it as a version 2.0 sort of physical infra- boost ... or not Class,” sought to determine why some metros were structure challenge; after all, that’s how these planning booming while others still lagged. He concluded that types have been trained. This new “If you build it, they the successful ones were those best able to attract a cer- will come” game plan no longer involves ball fields in- March 2019 Page 7 parks, but instead funky downtowns with the requisite streetscapes, cafes, farmers markets, galleries and performance spaces. That’s part of the reason there are now more brewpubs in this nation than Elks Clubs. Many have been funded with help from these new true believers drinking the Florida brand of pale ale. There are several examples of this strategy in motion in our own 518 region of upstate New York: Hudson, Troy and Schenectady are com- monly cited in this context. Each has no doubt improved its downtown look, feel and vibe with increased night-owl entertainment attractions and foot traffic. Music can be heard, graphic art can be seen, poetry can be read and chefs are the new rock stars. All is good; right? Well, hold on. Or framed another way: Is this enough? Is successfully creating this particular type of landscape what the new report card should be based on? The case presented from this corner is concise: No. Yes, the coffee shops, hibachis and brewpubs are (especially) important when done right. Thankfully, they usually are. But live music scenes are equally important; probably even more so. We fully subscribe to popular mantra of “Music is the gateway art” here at our modest advisory firm. Accordingly, we usually approach our projects with a music-first mindset. The execution problem we run into is an immediate show stopper: Too often, this crucial need is deemed as already being solved locally by native cover bands playing in bars and park festivals or even the occasional bigger-name acts visiting theaters. It often goes like this: “What do you mean, we don’t have a music scene here? Have you heard the noise coming from those bars down there?” We argue that this sort of complacency is a mistake – a very big mistake. While those aforementioned settings are help- ful and desirable, what’s really needed in building a true music scene (or music town) economy is to start with one or more small or mid-sized venues Shutterstock.com that regularly host original acts, both touring and Development of an all-inclusive arts community in Saratoga Springs is hampered by its dualing de- regional. There are literally hundreds of these sire to attract summer tourists in town for thoroughbred racing at Saratoga Race Course, concerts type of performers skipping across the continent at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and other high-profile attractions. at any given moment, presenting a programming alternative to talent buyers that take the time to And what exactly makes up said scene? Didn’t industry ecosystem, if you will, develops and is look for them, instead of lazily writing the “$100 we skip that part? sustained. Participants attract other participants a head” check to the usual party band suspects Yes, we did skip that part. It’s complicated, in what the economic development world calls or – even worse – the push button DJ heroes who but the summary goes like this: A scene (music clusters. wear them down for gigs. For the precious few or otherwise) hosts multiple parts of a so-called The best news? They tend to live, love and work that do make that effort, good things accrue to the industry supply chain. In the music world, this within those same clusters, usually meaning down- larger community. includes not only the performers, but also techni- town or at least in the greater urban boundary. But why is this type of a scene so important cians, agents, management, publicists, promoters, to economic, community and arts development? studios, publishers, songwriters and more. An Continued on Page 8 Page 8 March 2019 Competing interests can hurt everyone without cooperation

Continued from Page 7 senior citizens down for a night of Broadway revivals, show them boundary. When it works, it scales a good time and get some sales When it works, it scales and also tax dollars out of them, but you’ll attracts and crossbreeds with other never get either to live, work or arts segments, as well as other create downtown – and that should creative segments, such as tech and be your best-case scenario. design. The result is people who Instead, work on getting that gal live, work and play in the urban with the arts degree and big fash- footprint, instead of just people ion dreams in her head that’s into who occasionally play there. indie electro-shoegazer to come Again, a music scene is de- down. Let her mingle with those veloped with the existence of neighborhood types who are work- live stages featuring original and ing, hanging, playing and showing touring acts. That makes the whole in the nearby galleries and stages formula work, the first link in the or are making a living supporting supply chain. Without it, the math those who do. Provide her that sort Photo provided falls apart. That’s different than of setting, and she’ll be more like- Niki Chaos, left, performs with her band, Bleak Little World. having a couple bars with gray ly to stay – or at least come back in hair playing the classic rock of the daylight hours. And you’ll be their youth or even a setting with glad she did, but you’re not going Mother Niki returns with 20 stages hosting 20 cover bands to do it with horn bands on the pa- playing to seasonal visitors (yes; tio playing “Mustang Sally” or the we’re looking at you, Saratoga). corner art shop offeringThomas unique blend of Chaos The former is a bar scene, while Kinkade prints. By Liam Sweeny the latter is a tourist scene, both In other words, while many with minimal contributions to that communities are playing the arts We’ve all heard music that was so unique, we knew after the first bar desired chain. card as a way to jump on the urban of that first song that we’d recognize them any time we might hear them Neither is necessarily a bad renaissance bandwagon, quite of- in the future. thing, but not all towns want a ten they are playing a weak hand. That can be good or bad, of course, but when I first heard the music large locals’ bar zone and not all What some claim to be a vibrant of Niki Chaos and her band, Bleak Little World, I emptied the carafe of can become a tourist trap. All scene is actually a mirage. Hype day-old coffee and burned my way through the whole discography, which probably desire a creative econo- can easily supplant actual suc- is on the Internet, so you can, too. my, however. cess or even reality (hello again, Prog-Americana, as I get from hearing Bleak Little World describe Substitute other subsets under Saratoga!). Those bluffs need to be themselves, is a two-lane, blacktop ribbon cutting through the desert the greater arts scene umbrella, and called. scrub brush to a diner 10 miles up the road, with a dusty jukebox and similar exercises of differentiating a preacher at the door. It’s that kind of music, and that jukebox is filled real versus faux ecosystems can Robert Millis is the principal with Niki Chaos and Bleak Little World. take place. Here’s a relevant exer- of Saratoga Springs-based The I sat down with Niki to talk about our personal lord and savior, Leo cise for developers and planners, 398Group, which advises and Fender. both public and private sector: If assists venues, festivals, local gov- RRX: Your vocal style reminds me of jazz, in the sense that you your efforts are attracting suburban ernments and economic developers explore note progressions and, I guess, “curvatures” that bounce from the office girls who listen to pop music in the development of music-first, rhythm on a thin tether, only to come back into that perfect land. Let’s on the radio into town for a Fri- arts-based initiatives. Contact him spill some secrets: How do you work the balance between what you do as day night karaoke fix or bringing at [email protected]. a songwriter and the improvisation that I’m hearing in the song? March 2019 Page 9

to perform was too strong, and over time, I had to get back into it. That was how I met Bob and joined Bleak Little World. I was hanging out at a jam Deb Cavanaugh hosts, looking for new musicians to play with, and once we both realized how our bleak songwriting was perfectly aligned, the rest was history. RRX: On your website, you heavily stress the desire to find new artists out there - in the area or elsewhere - that are pushing the envelope and exploring the space. There are some musicians who are great at this, and there are some who don’t see the need if they’ve got a smokin’ right hand, so to speak. How would you convince them to experi- ment? Niki: Oh, this is a tricky question. … In my view, I don’t push people to do much of anything. They either want to do it, or they don’t (not to be confused with my opinions, of which I have many). I look for people who are open-minded, and I try to hang out with those people. Those people restore my energy. There is a great network of support in the Capital District if you’re open and look for it. You just have to get out there. RRX: This interview’s been a lot about BLW, but your solo work is incredible, and these questions could easily apply to you as a solo artist, as well. Photo provided Who do you love? What’s on the calendar? Niki Chaos, right, and Bob Donald, who founded and leads their band, Bleak Little World, perform Niki: This is funny. I MUCH prefer playing with outside the River Street Beat Shop in downtown Troy. others. It really adds to the potential greatness of the sound. My solo work is really my songwriting, for Niki: So thoughtful of you to notice my love for played with – sink their teeth into a song, and the which I can thank the universe for sending me the jazz. For me, it’s about listening and feeling. Lis- creativity and dedication they bring to the songwrit- words and notes. tening to the notes, feeling the rhythm, feeling the ing and arranging process has been unparalleled. Otherwise, everything I do is a collaboration, and mood and emotion of the song. One of my favorite parts about BLW is that Bob I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work The rhythm is the dance of the song. Every song Donald, who created and fearlessly leads the band, with so many talented people. has a dance. The singing is the melody of the song. always encourages all of us to contribute to the On that note, BLW is excited to be hosting the … The melody commands attention, but also listens songwriting, because our focus has been original Best Damn Open Mic at McGeary’s every other to everything else. music. For instance, our former bass player, Kevin week (opposite Hard Luck), which has given me the When writing, I try to tie the melody to the Carroll, contributed two songs and co-wrote a third. chance to meet all sorts of new friends. And I can’t rhythm and bring all of those elements when I sing. RRX: My illustrious publisher and friend of wait to debut a very special Patti Smith cover at the After the melody is created, it gets “locked in,” so the court, Art Fredette, informed me that you had RadioRadioX event with Let Go Daylight. For those that we can consistently hit the harmonies every taken a sabbatical from music to take on the role of fans who might be in New York City on March 16, time. I think that’s maybe one of my secrets: a little mother. Now, I can only imagine the ups and downs we’ve got a very special night lined up at Freddy’s bit of improv and a lot of memorization. of having to lug many pounds of new equipment in Brooklyn, so be sure to check out our website for RRX: Bleak Little World is so multifaceted. I around AND clean up spittle and vomit, so was the details and come raise hell with us in the city that could put you on repeat in my car as I drive through transition from that to becoming a mother a big one? never sleeps. some “Peak Oil Blues,” and I don’t need to switch Niki: The transition to being a mother (or a We’re REALLY excited for my newest project CDs to hear something different. Question is, being father, for that matter) is a big one for EVERYONE. coming up: niki chaos and the random particles. It’s versatile is tough; have you ever written a song and It’s a lot of hard work, and often you have to put indie-experimental rock that covers our usual buffet been tempted to just delve into its style and write 20 your personal passions aside to focus on your child. of styles, but allows Bob and I to switch up instru- more of them? When my kid was young, it was too hard for me to ments and really stretch our legs. I’ve been enjoying Niki: BLW is VERY multifaceted. My songs are keep up with work and being a mom AND trying to the drums lately and Bob the keyboard, so expect all created in my singer-songwriter style, but then get out there and do the music thing. to see some new sounds as we explore the sonic the band – some of the best musicians I’ve ever I took a break for about five years, but the desire landscape. Page 10 March 2019 Anything you can do ... Woodstock’s Kristen Capolino earning spot among guitar elites

By Ralph Renna When I was 13 years old, I started playing at open mic nights. For the At a very young age, most musi- most part, the musicians were actually cians develop their desire and passion very kind and supportive, but there to play. They either excel fast or fade were a few that were judgmental and faster. When we see a young child disapproving, simply because I was a play guitar, we are all impressed young lady. because of their innocence, but what In recent years, female guitarists when you’re in a crowd of respect- have been rising up in the music able, gifted musicians at a Kristen industry, and I do think that has been Capolino show? It’s a different scene. difficult for some to accept. However, Kristen, 29, was born in Romania, I have been lucky to have met and but grew up in Woodstock. Beginning played with some very talented musi- when she was 12, she has built an cians and artists, and they have been outstanding resume, already having nothing but kind and supportive. shared the stage with Lady Antebel- RRX: How about your influences? : I feel that I have a lum, Gavin DeGraw, Bret Michaels, KRISTEN pretty wide range of musical influ- Wyclef Jean, Michael Schenker ences, but I would say that I wouldn’t Group, Les Paul and Al DiMeola. have picked up the guitar if it wasn’t Kristen’s vocal coach is Don Law- for Gary Moore and Michael Schenk- Photo provided rence, whose clients also include Mick er. I’ll never forget the good old days Guitarist Kristen Capolino is scheduled to open for Talas on Wednesday, Jagger, Bono, Christina Aguilera, of riding in the car with my father and March 13, at Jupiter Hall, inside Lucky Strike Social in Crossgates Mall in Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett. blasting some of our favorite songs, Albany. For tickets or more information, visit jupiterhallalbany.com. We had a chance to catch up with such as “Lights Out” by UFO. I loved Kristen as she gears up for another things in the works for 2019. A little friend, Gerardo Velez – a world-re- playing air guitar and rocking out. over a year ago, I started a new series nowned percussionist who has worked monster slot, opening for Talas, which Although my father introduced me of shows called Mondial, which are with Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie, features bass player Billy Sheehan, to Al DiMeola, of Return to Forever, available on my website, Kristen- to name a few – recently invited me formerly of Mr. Big and David Lee when I was very young, I didn’t fully Roth’s band on Wednesday, March 13, appreciate his incredible playing until Capolino.com. Over the years, I have to perform at the 50th Anniversary of at Jupiter Hall, inside Lucky Strike my teen years. Soon I even started gained fans worldwide, and I wanted Woodstock (concert) this summer. I’m Social at Crossgates Mall in Albany. getting into some bluegrass, after to be able to reach out and connect so honored, and am looking forward RRX:You have exceeded a lot of sharing the stage with Albert Lee. with them in a personal way. to being part of this incredible even. guitarists in talent and age? Being a I love to take bits and pieces from Every show has a different guest In addition to playing more shows young woman, is it intimidating? all of my influences to create my own to make them new and exciting. I’ve this year, I will also be back in the KRISTEN: I’ll be honest that style. It’s so important to explore all been fortunate to have worked with studio, working on new material, so being a young lady indeed was a kinds of music because you never some amazing and kind artists, such I’m very excited. challenge in the male-dominated know what you can learn from them. as Bernie Marsden of Whitesnake and music world. However, I have found RRX: What does 2019 and beyond Gene Cornish of The Rascals. For more of Ralph Renna’s inter- that music does the talking and breaks hold for you? At the same time, I have some oth- view with Kristen Capolino, visit the through all barriers and differences. KRISTEN: We have some exciting er exciting shows planned. My good Xperience blog at RadioRadioX.com. March 2019 Page 11 Going to the dogs ... and cats Photos by Art Fredette angar on the Hudson in Troy was filled with pet lovers Feb. 9 for Rock ‘N Rescue, a benefit for the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society. The day WTEN meterologist Tim Drawbridge, center, hosted Rock’N Rescue on Feb. 9 at Hangar on Hfeatured live music, raffles, door prizes and more. the Hudson in Troy to benefit the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society.

Rod Choppy, right, performs with Jim Trainor, above. Be- low, the Rod Choppy Reaction is joined on stage by Tommy RadioradioX.com was among those promoting and support- Love. ing the fundraiser. Page 12 March 2019

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Photo provided Kevin McKrell, center, performs with his band, the McKrells. Telling stories in many ways

McKrell’s heritage, travels reflected in his music, art

By Liam Sweeny father wanted to ask. Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Pops! RRX: I am fortunate here to be interviewing you; my

My father, if you don’t know him, is an amateur mu- parents first saw you at The Grinch, on Eagle Street in sical historian. It can be delta blues or British invasion Albany, in the early ‘80s, and the last time they saw you or southern rock or early proto-punk, if it came out was the Mountain Snow and Mistletoe at the Empire before 1980, he can read you the liner notes of an album State Plaza. There’s a real character arc in the venues, from memory. if you exclude the world tours. Is there nostalgia, or is Okay, I may exaggerate a little, but he’s been going there more shock? to shows ever since I was crawling around sticking Kevin: There are always memories of certain gigs; forks in Lite-Brites. So when he follows Kevin McKrell sometimes it is strictly about the venue itself - Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Caffe Lena, Falcon Ridge Folk through 40 years of music, it really means something. It’s hard to figure out what to write about someone Festival, The Milwaukee Irish Festival. Of course, there who has been a part of your upbringing, but Kevin has were always gigs that are best left to the memory scrap been bringing everything from pop covers to Celtic folk heap. Most of those were early days, the rough and tum- and bluegrass originals to the region and the world for ble of the bar gigs, playing 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., 40 (minu- decades. He’s someone who could easily hit any major jtes) on, 20 off, fighting off all those who were over- city’s art scene and start turning heads, if he has done so served enough to be sure they could do the song better. already. RRX: Okay, the Newports. Fifties, ‘60s pop, again, I sat down with Kevin to geek out with questions my going way back to that late ‘70s and early ‘80s. I’m March 2019 Page 13 trying to see the transition musically mendous players, so that band went Stan (Laurel) and Ollie (Hardy). leaf clovers. You play in Ireland a in my head between that Top 40 set very quickly from jamming in the RRX: St. Patrick’s Day is com- lot. What is the actual St. Patrick’s and Celtic folk, bluegrass, acoustic. garage to Carnegie Hall seemingly ing up very soon, and the shows Day celebration like there? How do They seem so far apart in musical overnight. that you do are feats of endurance they see our oceans of green beer? style. Are they? Are there ties that RRX: My mom and dad almost as much as musical prowess. The Kevin: Up until the ’90s, St. Pat- bind? died at Mountain Snow and Mis- celebration of all things Irish is rick’s was simply a holy day of ob- Kevin: It was all about who I tletoe ... well, died laughing. You, something I cherish, but I’m really ligation, no different than the other was playing with or hanging with Brian Melick and “‘Twas the Night a passive celebrant. Can you tell raft of holy days that fill the Litur- at the time. In the Newports, I was Before Christmas.” Let’s give it the us what Kevin McKrell must do to gical calendar. Then they caught on hanging with Johnny Rabb and Bert justice that YouTube never could. prepare himself for an American St. to the money to be made, so Dublin Sommers, going to each others’ For one, how can you get through Patrick’s Day? started doing a parade, with truck- gigs, doing guest spots, working out the tale standing next to Brian Kevin: Back many years ago, I loads of American marching bands vocals as we went. The Newports Melick? did a marathon on that day, trying filling the Aer Lingus flights. was like a vacation: no pressure. Kevin: Brian and I kid each other to fit as many gigs into a 24-hour Now, it is no different than here. The songs weren’t mine, so no wor- about how we will be 90 and still period as humanly possible. Raising I think I recall them making the ries about how they were performed dragging ourselves out to do that a family, paying the mortgage … Liffey green for the day, or maybe or received. bit. When I conceived of that bit, it thank God these days I don’t have that was just the slime. … Now, they The McKrells was again the was all Brian - though a very serious to do that. I do one show and toddle are better at it then us; they have the same, I have always loved bluegrass artist, he has a natural flair for com- safely off to bed. world’s shortest parade going from a music, since the day my Uncle Bill edy and a very expressive way about RRX: Let’s piggy back off that pub on the right across the street to gave me a Roy Clark Family CD. him. Because of that bit, we have question. On March 17, everyone the pub on the left. And I just happened to be hanging been compared to Martin and Lewis, gets to be Irish if they wear green; if RRX: You paint. Fantastically, I in Saratoga and met up with tre- Abbott and Costello. - I see us as they’re lucky, the real Irish get kiss- might add. You can paint 70 hard es; and every supermarket display case is verdant, rollinghills and four- Continued on Page 14

Photo provided Musicians Kevin McKrell, left, and Brian Melick are notorious for a comedy bit based on the classic holiday poem “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Page 14 March 2019

Local music icon Kevin Storytellers are McKrell says he has started McKrell’s muse writing sonngs for a new solo Continued from Page 13 project, but has no timeframe years into a face, and they want to talk. The peo- for the work. ple you paint - a lot of Irish people, naturally - do you look for people with expressive faces and ask them to sit, or do they ask you to paint them and you pull the expression out of them and paint it onto the canvas? Kevin: When I travel, I take photos, bring them home and paint away. RRX: I could go on, but I leave the floor open for you to answer any question I didn’t ask: shoutouts, who you listen to, what projects you have coming up. The microphone is yours. Kevin: My inspirations are folks like John Prine and Guy Clark, Pete St. John and Jimmy McCarthy, Michael Smith. Storytellers all. I am currently writing tunes for a new solo bit. No idea when. Photo provided March 2019 Page 15

Remembering a friendPhotos by Art Fredette The local music and arts community was out in force Feb. 10 at Hangar on the Hudson in Troy for the annual Dick Quinn Memorial Jam and Art Show. The afternoon of art and music was organized by friends and family of the late local musician, including, left, his son and daughter-in-law, and hosted by The Hill Hollow Band, below. Where the Players Meet the Fans River Street Beat Shop continues to thrive as gathering place for musicians, fans of all ages, styles

By Liam Sweeny tomers, and between the customers and each other. For you, is it purely the musical passion, or is it also the chance to connect with people generally? immy Barrett is a man of many talents - business owner, musician and Jimmy: Oh, it’s absolutely both. I mean music drove me; I’ve always been radio host - and I’m sure there’s a few things I’m unaware of. I a music maniac since I was a kid. When I was 4 years old, I had a crystal ra- Jmet him in the River Street Beat Shop, a magical place dio set, so the music has always been big. But I also like people. I’m that is not just a stop on a musical destination, but a not a distant person. I don’t keep my distance, I enjoy engaging destination itself. It has launched several bands in conversation with customers, and particularly musicians that have found love in the 518. who spend a lot of time in here. And they’re very hip to Jimmy also hosts “Kaleidoscope” - the the kids, too, the younger music lovers. These guys iconic show that has been a staple of and ladies talk to these kids and have a lot of fun, the local radio scene for more than invite them to their shows and to “pick up my three decades - from 8 to 10 p.m. record.” … It’s pretty intriguing; a lot has Mondays on RadioRadioX. changed for the better. I sat down with Jimmy on RRX: A lot of bands have gotten a blustery cold day to ask, their starts at the Beat Shop and have “How’s tricks?” played in there, so the Beat Shop is RRX: Jimmy, I love really a spot on the scene. I’m all the Beat Shop, and I about hearing stories, and you’re find it hard to be- all about telling them, so do lieve that anyone you have a funny story about wouldn’t love it. a band that got their start in But it’s more than the Beat Shop? the offerings; it’s Jimmy: Well I’m not so a conversation, sure “funny,” but we’ve between you and your cus- Continued on Page 18 Page 18 March 2019 Vinyl revival ‘not a fad,’ joined by CDs Continued from Page 17 RRX: And what interview would be complete without a question Basically, for the longest time, we about vinyl? You carry a lot of it, would let anybody come in that and talk is there’s a resurgence. Oth- wanted a crack at playing. Anybody er talk is that it’s a hipster fad, and it that put a CD out got the opportuni- won’t sustain a market. What do you ty to play. think can sustain a resurgence in But then we had some that be- vinyl that wouldn’t be true for, say, came really popular, like Big Frank cassette tapes? What goes beyond and the Bargain Bingers just got so, the fad of it? they are so good now. And the Mys- Jimmy: I don’t think it’s a fad at teios, who morphed into … Johnny all. I think it’s been going on for five (Mystery)’s band now is called the or six years. It’s at a recent all-time Va Va Voodoos - Johnny changes his high. A large portion of our sales are Photo by Kate Larson name quite often. And (I take) per- vinyl, to be honest with you. And The River Street Beat Shop in downtown Troy, owner by Jimmy Barrett, sonal pride in Off The Record, who the kids are really hip to vinyl. But left, is more than just an eclectic shop for music fans and collectors, but are more of a theatrical rock band they’re not faddists; these kids are also a gathering place for local musicians of all ages and genres. than they are a rock band. They’re a all in. This isn’t flavor of the month; show; it’s like a theater presentation. I’m not getting that at all. So we’ve had so many wonderful The older fans are coming in be- people, (like) Sarah Pedadadie and cause they’re replacing their favor- Sean Rowe, and so many great peo- ite records of all time, and they’re ple have played here. But to me, just talking to these younger music fans. as much fun are the ones who put They’re really interested; I think a cassette or CD out and didn’t do they’re tired of America shoving much, but they got to play live with this crap down their throats and con- their friends, they had fun and they vincing them they have to buy this still have fond memories. It doesn’t or that, or they have to get MP3s or matter to me who makes it or who’s other sources. doing really well; it matters to me And, by the way, there’s a re- who’s having fun and still getting surgence in CDs also because the the fact that playing music live is a stores pretty much decided no one real blast. So, a little of both. wants CDs. Well, we know better, March 2019 Page 19 know people do want CDs. If you’re a CD coming out called Appetite for someone in your 60s, and you’ve Dysfunction, I think it’s going to set been collecting CDs for years, you’re people on their heels. I’ll say no more not going to stop, so if they don’t about it at this point. Artie’s handling want to sell them, there’s another that, but it’s quite remarkable. So yes, avenue open for sales. to answer your question, I am a Lawn We take pride in having a lot Sausage. It will probably be on my of rock and roll, blues, jazz, punk, tombstone. reggae. W have all that stuff available RRX: Between the Beat Shop, The here, and very cheaply on CD, so Lawn Sausages and “Kaleidoscope,” there’s a whole new market. And they you’re all-in on music, which is love coming in and going through. different than even some of the bands They’re surprised that we think and players that you like? Do you this way, but it’s common sense. I’m think that musicians that are “all-in” not a rocket scientist, (but) I have my bring something different to the art ear to the ground. If you listen to your than people who are drawn to it as an customers, it’s not that hard to figure escape from the 9-to-5? out that good things are happening in Jimmy: I don’t agree with the music. question. I think if you’re in a band, That said, it’s a lot of work; it’s you’re all-in anyway, cause you’re not for everybody. You have to be Photo by Ed Conway gonna work towards a goal of playing willing to sit here on a day like today Amongst his other claims to fame, Jimmy Barrett is also a member of the out and having fun. I think you’re with nobody out and hope somebody infamous local band The Lawn Sausages. talking about cover bands versus comes through the door. Other days, RRX: You’re also in a band called zest. Something we were doing was original bands, and in that particular there’s a deluge, so … it’s not for the scenario, I would always prefer the timid. You’ve got to be a believer, and The Lawn Sausages. What do you right because people were screaming original band even if they fell flat on I’m a believer and my son’s a believ- play, who are your fellow Sausages, and dancing and laughing, and we their face. er, so we know that hard work always and what’s the Lawn Sausage flavor? came out swinging. We just hit it right I personally have more respect for pays off. Jimmy: Well, I’m proud to be in away, and we really haven’t changed a band that will go out and play all Not to mention that the online ser- The Lawn Sausages. It started out as a that much through the years. their own songs rather than the same vice is really the way to go. We get a bet with Tina Ward and her band, The We tend not to play as often now. Top 40 songs that everybody’s play lot of great records here, but some of Matter Babies, who said there was Being a novelty band, we like to play - those we sell online to pay our bills. no place to play, and no one would three or four times a year just to keep ing out there. I prefer original bands; I That opportunity is there. support local. And Artie (Fredette, it fresh, but we do like to get togeth- think it takes a lot of guts, and some- And radio is basically no help at owner of RadioRadioX and publisher er to practice a lot. We enjoy each times they’re astounding. Sometimes all, except, and I work for this place, of Xperience) and I, and our friend other’s company, all of us. We’ve got these original bands are great. places like RadioRadioX push the Paul and other like-spirited individ- great musicians, like Rob Skayn and I don’t have a problem with an heck out of local bands. Every hour, uals, said we could fill a club in two Mark Emanation, Charlie Clifford, original band playing a few covers, those guys are playing local stuff, and weeks, even write and make a CD at who’s a monster drummer, Paul play- that’s just common sense, as long as a the local bands love it. They get a the same time, and the bet was a case ing rhythm guitar, Johnny Mystery on big portion of their set is original. I’m chance to be heard. of beer. bass, and Artie and I on “dog howl- happy, as a patron, to go support that. So major radio is dead, and a large So we made the bet, and we got ing” (I’m the cat, he’s the dog.) So,I think everybody’s all-in about radio station (is) awful, they have no a few friends in, and we bought It is a change; it’s fun. Our whole playing. imagination, and even college radio keyboards and a couple microphones thing was to send up local music, When you’re buying your gear and has gone to hell, (That) used to be and a couple of speakers and we because at the time, bands were rehearsing and throwing it in a car, a hotbed for great new music, (but) pretty much “makeshift” created a taking themselves so seriously. We’re dragging it up a flight of stairs, play college stations are playing the same set of music, hilarious, and I thought not capable of taking ourselves that for 25 people on a Thursday night tripe you can get on an FM station. it would be awful, but it was really seriously. Our songs are raunchy and God-knows-where, then you’re all-in, They’re following instead of leading. crazy funny. funny, and they’re just profane, but and if you’re playing original, all the College radio are in big trouble. We played at this place called people laugh. We love it when we more power to you. So, I dig both, but Stations like this are the new Billy’s on Broadway, and we filled the go to shows and people are singing I have a slight preference for original cornerstone of music. These are the place. It was a total three-ring circus, along; they know all the words. So- bands. people, like RadioRadioX, that will and people went nuts. We dressed in phisticated people love trashy songs matter if people will support them. these outlandish outfits – we barely once in a while. For more from Jimmy Barrett, read It’s not easy to convince people that is knew how to plug in, let alone play We’re having a blast. We’re the complete interview under the Xpe- the way to go, but it is. – and something was going on, some playing some shows, (and) we have rience tab at RadioRadioX.com. Page 20 March 2019 Bright Lights

Small Town Photo provided Cast and crew do some nighttime filming in Waterford for the independent picture “The Black Sky Under Harper’s Rock.” Waterford leaves lasting impression on film, cast and crew By Liam Sweeny you’re not into spoilers. So if you’d like to avoid spoilers, maybe you can take us through John’s or ilm creates a history that never happened. Sarah’s desks at home. Can we get to know them? Combine it with a backdrop that reflects Aaron: John Finch is the local catch of the four centuries of real history, and there’s town. He’s cool, attractive and doesn’t have a a power greater than simply history and problem with the ladies. He hangs out with the Fstory combined. local “bro” types and is known as The Wolf. Among the banks of the confluence of two However, after falling in love with Sarah, John rivers that have been vital for perhaps thousands becomes unable to go back to his old way of life. of years, a film crew set up and set out to create Sexual promiscuity and partying becomes a a compelling tale of loss, searching and remem- thing of the past because his emotional well has brance. We sat down to talk with actors Aaron been filled by his and Sarah’s love. His vulnera- Dalla Villa and Faith Kelly, writer/director Steve bility becomes accentuated by Sarah’s disappear- Cifarelli and producer/location manager Mike ance, and at first he tries to deny it, but, like a Camoin about the latest creative fingerprint on recently sober person, he cannot escape the truth: the Capital Region. Sarah is in trouble and he may be at fault. RRX: The name of the film is “The Black Sky Faith: So Sarah’s a pretty spacey, weird girl, Under Harper’s Rock.” It’s a movie where the im- mostly an introvert. Recently out of high school, Photo provided pact of a missing girl (Sarah) on the main charac- she would consider herself in the miscellaneous, Actors Faith Kelly and Aaron Dalla Villa perform ter (John) as life piles up with the miles he drives non-clique group before entering the realities of in a scene from “The Black Sky Under Harper’s looking for her. I’d love to hear more, but maybe small-town life. Rock” March 2019 Page 21

Her desk is halfway perfectly organized and halfway littered with classic dark novels, some goth and prog CDs and sketching pads of nature from the small world surrounding her. And her favorite orange gloves. Basically her desk is filled with whatever she can use to escape from the world in her head. A head that is haunted by a depression rooted in self-hate, loneliness and confusion, (but) masked by a smile, giggle and “Let’s look another way from this” humor. RRX: I have heard over the time I’ve lived near Peebles Island about bodies being found, sometimes suicides, other times washed up from higher up the Mohawk. It underpins the natural beauty and quaint feel of the location. Was it something you knew about prior, or something you found out during production? Steve: It was not. Things weren’t panning out with a different location that I was into finan- cially, and Mike suggested we check out the area near Cohoes all the way up 787 – we were searching for a large rock or cliff hanging over water. We really stumbled upon this cliffside along the Mohawk River with just plain spectacu- lar views. Having done this a number of times before, Mike saw the potential immediately and cued me in on how easy it would be to coordinate an otherwise complex shoot schedule around the neatly compact town of Waterford, New York. So you see, the history of the location was completely happenstantial and did not play a role in its selection. Finances and logistics were the deciding factors – as they always seem to be – though I will admit the incidental connections Photo provided between the history of the place and the story The cast and crew of “The Black Sky Under Harper’s Rock” take a break from filming to pose for a we told were nothing short of spooky. As Mike photo on Peebles Island. himself said, it’s almost as if the location chose We had no awareness that Officer McGrievey feeling to driving into Duncannon, my hometown the story, and not vice-versa. and Waterford’s search and rescue would be in Pennsylvania, which is also a waterfront town RRX: As far as shooting locally, was there a playing roles they had performed for real. It gave 20 minutes away from our state capital. I felt personal connection with someone in the crew? Steve’s fictional story an unplanned sense of the homeliness and acceptance immediately, and Mike: We had no idea of the losses the region authenticity and purpose that I believe impacted everyone I met felt like someone I known my and town of Waterford has grieved along the Mo- the crew in an unexpected way that has yet to be whole life. hawk. As a location manager (on such Sundance fully unraveled. As an adult, I now appreciate this feeling, but indies as “We the Animals” and “As You Are), Completing a movie is a miracle. Perhaps, in I decided to go back to that teenage feeling of my job is to serve the director’s vision. It’s pure some unknown way, the story can help the com- needing to escape to see if there was anything magic when it comes together. munity heal. That would be movie miracle No. 2 else out there. That’s what I did, and perhaps I had recalled walking the Peebles Island trail ... 3, 4 and 5. that’s what Sarah did. From growing up in a a few years back with my wife, Linda. She and RRX: You probably made many inroads with small town, they can be charming, yet haunting to I met in Cohoes one summer (1991) working at people in the village, not just for filming purpos- the soul. ROI on Remsen Street. My hope was to offer es, but personally. In what ways, do you think the The filming probably changed the village the director Steve Cifarelli an alternative rock and filming change the village, even if momentarily? same way film changed me: Inspiration, creation, water setting that fit his script. He was creative to And did they change what you were doing in any perhaps the mental wheels get turning. Then make the setting work, and with the help of the way? community, it surpassed our expectations. Faith: Driving into Waterford is a very similar Continued on Page 22 Page 22 March 2019 Technology both good, bad for filmmakers ‘I think the new Continued from Page 21 the deluge of affordable production coherently stringing together a series equipment has also led to a deluge of of moments that explore a character’s frontier is the same people realize it just takes FOREVER material being produced that is not humanity, then your best bet is to to shoot a scene that is one minute worth most people’s time and atten- learn cinematography, become a mas- as the old one: long. They begin to appreciate the tion. ter at your craft, and then find a friend People figuring out crew behind the camera and the time Very few independent films come who writes scripts, and offer to make is takes to make. right out of the oven equipped with her collection of abstract thoughts into who they are and RRX: Ten years ago, only a few everything that makes a film good. Of- a reality for her. where they fit into people could put a movie together that tentimes when the writing is good, the Ultimately, when everyone is doing had all the bonafides, but the technol- production values are terrible, or it’ll what they love to do – which is almost the whole process ogy has come down in price, and it’s be vice-versa, but either way, you end always the thing they do faster and of film-making, democratized independent cinema. up with something that’s unwatchable. better than anyone else – we all win, What’s the new frontier in indepen- If you’re a great writer but you’re so I think the new frontier is the same regardless of the dent film? not particularly handy, then you as the old one: People figuring out cost of technology’ Steve: I think we should be careful should develop scripts and avoid sets who they are and where they fit into when discussing “democratization” like the plague, and eventually hire a the whole process of film-making, re- and frontiers. The technology has production crew to turn your abstract gardless of the cost of the technology. - Steve Cifarelli come down in price, making it eas- collection of thoughts into a real, ier for serious practitioners to start physical thing. For more of Liam Sweeny’s inter- Writer/director making films and/or gain experience Conversely, if you love working view with the cast and crew of “The ‘The Black Sky Under working in department head roles with a camera in your hand, but don’t Black Sky Under Harper’s Rock,” visit Harper’s Rock’ much earlier on in their careers, but have a great touch for dialogue or RadioRadioX.com. March 2019 Page 23

Niskayuna native Jason Bittner is considered one of the top drummers in the metal world, having played for a quar- ter-century with top bands like Shadows Fall, Anthrax, Flot- sam and Letsam and, currently, Over- kill. He has also been frequently honored by Modern Dummer magazine, going back to 2004, when he was chosen as its Top Up and Coming Drummer.

Photo provided Have sticks, will travel Niskayuna native continues to build on world-class resumé as metal drummer

ason Bittner has been turning the past five years and catch us up final record with Stigmata, spend heads around the metal world on what happened and how did you some time playing in Toxik (an as a drummer for 25 years, go there? underground tech metal band from and he has no plans to slow Jason: Literally in the last five the ‘80s), and then I get a call by Jdown anytime soon. years, it went like this: 2013, Jon original drummer Kelly Smith to Since he was chosen as Top Up bands, including Anthrax, Flotsam Donais (Shadows Fall lead guitar- replace him on the throne and join and Coming Drummer of 2004 ist) joins Anthrax soon after I had Flotsam and Jetsam in the winter of and Jetsam, Toxik and, since 2017, by readers of Modern Dummer just finished filling in for Charlie 2014. Overkill. magazine, the Niskayuna native is Benante of Anthrax for half of 2012, I tour worldwide with F&J and universally considered among the I found a break in Jason’s busy so I knew this was coming months then make their “self-titled” album top metal drummers. Though best schedule recently to catch up. before it happened. in 2016. It was a great record, and known for his continued work with RRX: Lets get right to to it and Jon leaves, Brian Fair’s wife gets I’m very proud of it and very proud Shadows Fall, for which he earned talk about Shadows Fall, Stigmata, pregnant (with their first of two of my time in the band, I feel that I that 2004 award,, he has also lent his Flotsam & Jetsam, Anthrax, Over- children), Shadows Fall announce signature sound to several other top kill.Have sticks, will travel Rewind a”hiatus,” I come home, make one Continued on Page 24 Page 24 March 2019 Bittner happy ‘where I am’ Continued from Page 23 helped them regain some “status” they had lost over the years. However, all good things must come to an end. We reached a point where I felt the band was not going to get any further than it already was, in terms of status and tour opportunities. Once again, it became a “part-time” job, and I needed a full-time job, so when Bobby Blitz and DD called in February 2016 and offered me the drum chair in Overkill, I gladly and easily accepted. It was hard leaving my “Arizona family,” but this was an opportunity I was not going to miss out on. Both of these bands have been favorites of mine since I was a teenager, but this was a way-better gig. RRX: Current news? You just arrived home from a tour with Overkill? Stories to tell? How about the new record and plans for 2019? Photo provided Jason: The South American tour was great but Niskayuna native Jason Bittner, in background, currently splits time as drummer for Overkill, pic- exhausting, 11 days, eight countries. Overkill’s new tured, and Shadows Fall, a pair of iconic metal bands. album, “The Wings of War” drop(ped) Feb. 22. We’ll head to Europe for a month, starting March 8, “looking for what’s next.” Jason: Rush,The Police, Iron Maiden, Slay- and then right back out in the U.S. in April. RRX: What else is going on? Drum clinics, er, Overkill, Shadows Fall, Flotsam and Jetsam. RRX: You have told us before you have done appearances? Pretty much any band I’ve played in. things every drummer dreams of. You’ve exceed- Jason: Maybe some Canadian dates later this For more info on Jason and Overkill, check out ed your goals, but is the bar now higher? year. One side project – Dark Day Sunday with www.jasonbittner.com or www.wreckingcrew. Jason: Not really. The plan now is to stay Frank Aresti from Fates Warning – an album com. where I am and continue my career as long as will finally see the light of day this year. Lessons this band permits me to. If Blitz and DD call it a aside from skype and on-tour packages. Ralph Renna is the host of “The Loud Hours,” day, then I’ll think about “plan B”, but this has RRX: What are your top five artists? Favorite which airs from 8 to 10 p.m. Thursdays on Ra- been the first time in a long time where I’m not music of late? Anything goes. dioRadioX at radioradiox.com. March 2019 Page 25

covered Two of a kind Dos Amigos unites veteran musicians,

longtime friends Photos provided Veteran area musicians Drew Costa, left, and Todd By Mike Shudt Hanhurst, below, comprise Dos Amigos.

Welcome to Uncovered, the cool new spot where, every month, we’ll profile a different cover band from the area. First up in the spotlight is Dos Amigos, the littlest big band in the Capital Region. What Dos Amigos lacks in the number of members, they make up for in experience and versatility. This little band features local legend Todd Hanhurst (The Refrigerators, Burners U.K.) on percussion and vocals, accompanied by area veteran Drew Costa (Soul Session, Groove Syndicate) on keys and vocals. Together, the longtime friends have managed to put together a musical catalog that spans all genres and, often times, has the sound of a full band. Dos Amigos has the ability to perform at the fanciest cocktail hours and also to rock the area’s biggest clubs and loudest parties. Todd said he initially felt the duo the band’s music to grow organ- mistakes might not be as notice- checking them out on Facebook or would play mostly lower-key events ically and just see where things able. their website, www.dosamigosmu- at smaller venues and perform go. Todd explained that he has The plan, he said, is to continue sic.com. during earlier hours, but things have learned the two have to listen to to build Dos Amigos slowly and quickly evolved, and they now find each other much more carefully have fun while improving their per- Mike Shudt is a veteran of the lo- themselves in larger venues. and lock in perfectly, as opposed formances from week to week. cal music scene and currently plays He and Drew have allowed to a larger band, where individual Keep up with Dos Amigos by bass for Wylder-518 and Bad Apple. Page 26 March 2019 You’re Doing Better Than You Think

By Sassy Autumn say yes, especially if it doesn’t feel life. Find it, then keep it up. right. - You are free in your life to do Do you ever have a day when If it isn’t something that will benefit whatever you want. you’ve tried to take one step you or make you happy? It’s okay to It can be easy to use the excuse, “I forward, only to realize you’ve say no; saying no doesn’t have to be could do that, but I can’t because taken two steps back? permanent. A no can just mean “not …” It may be inconvenient to say Finding pleasure in seeing others You may feel the entire world is today.” That answer is completely yes - or no - but you have to realize enjoying the small stuff can make against you. You might even wonder OK. that only you have the freedom to you smile. It’s all about balance, if karma does exist. You’d be - Be the best YOU that you can be. make the decision YOU want. That, which is a beautiful thing. surprised to know you are actually You may not be as close to the finish in itself, is a precious gift. - You’ve learned from doing better than you think. line as you’d like to be, but you’re Taking your own pathway in life disappointment. You really can’t gauge your success committed to growing, evolving, takes a lot of bravery, tenacity, There are so many motivational or happiness on the things you have learning and bettering yourself. Use energy and grit. Be proud of quotes that basically mean you in your “external environment.” whatever means works for you to do yourself for every single step you have felt pain yesterday, which, in Take a moment or two to ask just that. take. Hold your head high, pat turn, has made you appreciate the yourself: “Is my life really as far off Whether it be positive affirmations, yourself on the back and keep on delights of now. You essentially do from where it should be?” quotes, goal posters or a dream keeping on. Your life is rich … and that every single day. You may have If you are looking for signs from board, you need to keep doing don’t ever forget it. gotten knocked down, but you’re the universe, read on. You may be whatever creates progress in your still standing today … stronger than surprised to find you aren’t far off ever. from where you want to be. I have a great statement tattooed on - You don’t let your ego stand in the my ankle: “Rock bottom became a way of your happiness. solid foundation on which I rebuilt It’s hard for many of us to wrap our my life.” Choices and lessons from heads around this, but it’s a fact: the past actually make you wiser We are part of a “whole,” instead to the things you will face in the of separate individuals. We all need future. each other - whether we know them - You have people in your life that personally or not - to survive and you love and trust. thrive. This is pretty simple, and yet we The bottom line? In order to be tend to overlook it. No matter how successful, we all need help; don’t hard life may get, if you have a be afraid to ask for it. It’s OK to not person you can rely on for a helping always be correct and in control. hand or a caring ear, you already Asking for help is just a stepping have a huge gift. It doesn’t even stone as we learn and grow. have to be a friend or personal - You find pleasure in the little acquaintance. Just someone. things in life. And remember not to take them for Take the “I need” statement off the granted. table. Objects are not needed to be - You know what is right for you. happy. Money does not determine Remember someone telling you at your good spirits. Have the attitude some point to “trust your gut?” It’s that no matter what you have, it’s true. Create a clear vision of what awesome. “I’m grateful for this tasty you do - and don’t - want in your coffee.” “I’m happy it’s warm and life. If an opportunity crosses your sunny.” path, you are under no obligation to March 2019 Page 27 Storytellers are the ultimate liars

By Liam Sweeny became … well, the iPhone (sorry, only squirts you had were the two of Android people; mine isn’t paid off mustard on your hot dog at Fenway. I’m a liar. yet, so I’m stuck with it, and, on this And the last point: The devil I may tell you that I’m not sitting page at least, so are you.) really is in the details. This goes here right now in my underwear typing In writing books (and I guess the away with the same hand I use to same is true in hiding your side piece right beside only lying about what scratch my bum. Is it true? Is it not? It unlimited fonts. from your main boo), the key to lying you have to. EVERY detail counts. doesn’t matter, because the point is, I Not only do you want me to lie well is three-fold. The first part is to No, that’s a lie; the ONE detail you know what you need to lie about and know you couldn’t care less about that. to you, you SPECIFICALLY want get wrong is going to be honed in on Most liars get caught because what you don’t. I need to lie to you me to lie. In fact, you’re likely to like a mouse in the ever-vigilant eye they lie about dumb, obvious stuff rate me on how well I was able to about the dead body my detective that they didn’t have to lie about in deceive you. character finds in a field; I don’t need of a snowy barn owl. the first place. Like “No, I really Of course, I’m not the only liar to describe every piece of litter in the The first and foremost thing any didn’t care if you bought an extra out there. Seriously, there are about grass (unless it’s a bloody glove). reader tells me when I show them doughnut for yourself,” but if you’re The second point of lying is this: a million 350-page lies that hit just something I’ve just written is that going to lie about that piddly-ass the indie book scene every year. Know who you’re lying to. If my au- I have some detail mixed up, like thing, what else are you lying about? That’s a lie, too, because nobody dience is cops, I can’t guess at the fo- No, I’m a professional liar. And really knows. rensics; I have to be pretty much spot ‘Street’ becomeing ‘Avenue.’ Never the first maxim of professional lying And yes, I’m talking about the li- on. If you’re going to tell your boss underestimate the joy people get in you can’t make it into work because is that people WANT to be lied to. ars who write books and stories, but saying “You missed a spot.” We want to believe the people who you have the squirts, know that he just think of the tree that grows off So go forth and tell your lies … lie to us. that root. You like Netflix? Groov- may be on your Facebook page when It’s tough to call someone out as ing on Game of Thrones? Lies built you go sharing a pic that proves the but tell them well. a liar, especially if it’s just your gut. Winterfell and Castle Black. But it’s more than that; we want to We need lies. Don’t think I’m believe that all is well, that everything trying to pull the filters off your Snap- has a simple, logical explanation. chat pics. I love those big, beautiful Lying throws that out the win- eyes, even if they’re not yours. We dow. Well, most lying does. need lies because the world is damned See, I lie on a screen over an depressing, and we need an escape. 8½-by-11-inch page mockup, which Lies can be simple and comfort- is in itself a lie because I can make able. Lies can lead to truths further it any size I want. I type on keys that down the road - the lies of Dick Tra- make a clacking sound, but clack on cy became the Apple watch, and the nothing, and my “ink” is pixels with bullcrap of the Star Trek tricorder Page 28 March 2019

To have your band included in Albany, Springs these monthly listings, email your schedule no later than the Sunday, March 10 Wednesday, March 13

21st of each month to Xperien- Porcupine, 6 p.m., The Low Sierra Hull, 4 and 9 p.m., Caffe Beat, 335 Central Ave., Albany [email protected]. Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs Hall, 32 2nd St., Troy The Deadbeats, 10 p.m., The The Brothers Flynn, 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 6 Low Beat, 335 Central Ave., Rev. Sekou, 8 p.m., The Linda, Patrick’s Pub, 606 3rd Ave., Wa- Albany 339 Central Ave., Albany The Deadbeats, 10 p.m., The tervliet Low Beat, 335 Central Ave., Hartley’s Encore, 9 p.m., Putnam Bluegrass Jam, 8 p.m., The Rus- Albany Place, 63A Putnam St., Saratoga tic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Thursday, March 14 Springs Troy Thursday, March 7 The Popravinas, 7:30 p.m., Skeeter Creek, 9 p.m., Nanola, Mother Mother, 8 p.m., The Hol- Pauly’s Hotel, 337 Central Ave., Xperience Live, hosted by Ra- 2639 Route 9, Malta low Kitchen + Bar, 79 N. Pearl St., Albany dioRadioX, with Let Go Daylight Albany and Bleak Little Duo, 6 p.m., The Deadbeats, 10 p.m., Parish Donnybrook Fair, 7:30 p.m., The RadioRadioX.com performance Public House, 388 Broadway, Egg, Empire State Plaza, Albany studio, 35D Saratoga Ave., Wa- Albany Tuesday, March 12 terford Joe Nichols, 9 p.m. at Vapor Saturday, March 9 Kevin McKrell and David Mc- Nightclub, 342 Jefferson St., Storm Large and Le Bonheur, Donnell, 7 p.m., The Parting Saratoga Springs 7:30 p.m., Proctors, 432 State St., 6th Annual Dustin Mele Memo- Glass Irish Pub and Restaurant, Schenectady, rial Concert, featuring Emerald 40-42 Lake Ave., Saratoga Continued on Page 29 City, Soul Sky, Super 400, and a Safety Meeting, Only Pulp and one-time-only reunion of the Bob Delphino, 8 p.m., The Low Beat, Etoll Group, 6 p.m., Brown’s NEW & PREVIOUSLY 335 Central Ave., Albany Brewing Company’s Revolution CHERISHED JEWELRY Hall, 425 River St., Troy Shaed, 8 p.m. at The Hollow INCREDIBLE SELECTION Bar + Kitchen, 79 N. Pearl St., Marcia Ball and Sonny Landreth, AT UNBEATABLE PRICES Albany 7:30 p.m., The Egg, Empire State WIDE SELECTION OF Plaza, Albany WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT Friday, March 8 Knot Dead, 8 p.m., The Rustic BANDS. FREE CAD DESIGNS. Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, VINTAGE AND MODERN. John McCutcheon, 7:30 p.m., Troy $199 with Chain Proctors, 432 State St., Schenect- ady Beadle Brothers, 8 p.m., Vapor Nightclub, 342 Jefferson St., EXCLUSIVELY The Lustre Kings, 8 p.m., The Saratoga Springs AT TOP CUSTOM JEWELERS Rustic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Troy Mwenso, the Shakes and DJ Tall Custom Designed Pendants Matt, 8 p.m., The Linda, 339 Reading “Hope For Cure” for the The Accents, 8 p.m., Vapor Central Ave., Albany Charity of Your Choice: Nightclub, 342 Jefferson St., • March of Dimes Saratoga Springs, Dead Horses and Honeysuckle, 8 p.m., Caffe Lena, 47 Phila St., • American Heart Assoc. Erin Costelo, 8 p.m., Caffe Lena, Saratoga Springs “YOUR TOP SOURCE FOR • Brain Cancer Awareness 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs GOLD & DIAMONDS!” • Alzheimers Awareness The Ruffians, 8 p.m., The Parting Morgan Wallen, 8 p.m., Upstate HILLTOP PLAZA #4 OF ALL Glass, 40-42 Lake Ave., Saratoga PROCEEDS Concert Hall, 1208 Route 146, Springs 143 TROY SCHENECTADY RD % DONATED Clifton Park WATERVLIET, NY 12189 25 Johnny Cab, Society High and (518) 272-2000 HOME OF RAFI THE Maria Schneider Orchestra, 8 The Savage Randys, 8:30 p.m., [email protected] SINGING JEWELER! p.m., Troy Savings Bank Music Pauly’s Hotel, 337 Central Ave., Page 28 March 2019

To have your band included in Albany, Springs these monthly listings, email your schedule no later than the Sunday, March 10 Wednesday, March 13

Continued from Pg. 28 St., Schenectady, Shakespeare In The Alley and Kilas- Friday, March 15 handra, 4 p.m., The Parting Glass Irish Pub and Restaurant, 40-42 The Gathering Crowd and Hasty Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs Page, 7:30 p.m., The Low Beat, 335 Central Ave., Albany Waterloo Clyde, 6 p.m., Corcoran’s Towpath Tavern, 33 Saratoga Ave., Jack Empie & Friends, 8 p.m., The Waterford Rustic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Troy Blue Hand Luke and Paddy O’Sax, 8 p.m., The Rustic Barn, 150 Spie- Cyrille Aimee, 8 p.m., The Egg, gletown Road, Troy Empire State Plaza, Albany Ja Rule, 8 p.m., Upstate Concert Lunasa with Natalie Merchant, 8 Hall, 1208 Route 146, Clifton Park p.m., Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 2nd St., Troy The Yardbirds, 8 p.m., The Egg, Empire State Plaza, Albany Hair Of The Dog, 8 p.m., The Part- ing Glass Irish Pub and Restaurant, 40-42 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs Sunday, March 17 Photo provided Let Go Daylight, pictured during a 2017 performance at the Strand Theatre in The Sisters of Slide, 8 p.m., Co- Toss the Feathers, 2 p.m., Indian Hudson Falls, will perform with Bleak Little Trio at the first Xperience Live show, hoes Music Hall, 58 Remsen St., Ladder Farms Cidery and Brewery, Cohoes 342 Altamont Road Altamont

Shadowland, 8 p.m., The Rustic Saturday, March 16 Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Troy Smittix and Feral Meryl, noon, Pauly’s Hotel, 337 Central Ave., Albany Tuesday, March 19

Triskele, 2 p.m., Patrick’s Pub, 606 Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour, 3rd Ave., Watervliet 7:30 p.m., Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 32 2nd St., Troy Irish Hooley and The Screaming Orphans, 2 p.m., Proctors, 432 State Continued on Page 30 Page 30 March 2019

Continued from Page 29 Schenectady, NY 12305 Friday, March 29

Saturday, March 23 Sunday, March 24 The Refrigerators, 8 p.m., The Wednesday, March 20 Rustic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Beau Sasser’s Escape Plan, 8 p.m., Entreband, 6 p.m., Jupiter Hall, Troy The Deadbeats, 10 p.m., The Low The Rustic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Crossgates Mall, Albany Beat, 335 Central Ave., Albany Road, Troy Victory Soul Orchestra, Front Maurizio Russomanno, 8 p.m., The Business and Jeff Gordon, 8 p.m., Thursday, March 21 Sean Rowe, 8 p.m., Hangar on the Rustic Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Hangar on the Hudson, 675 River Hudson, 675 River St., Troy Troy St., Troy Science Man, Golden Slugs, Spell Runner and Sinkcharmer, 8:30 p.m., School Bus Yellow with The Rob Wednesday, March 27 Bad Luck, 6 p.m., The Low Beat, Pauly’s Hotel, 337 Central Ave., Compa Trio, 8 p.m., The Hollow 335 Central Ave., Albany Albany Kitchen + Bar, 79 N. Pearl St., K Camp, 6 p.m., Jupiter Hall, Cross- Andy Iorio album release concert, 7 Albany gates Mall, Albany p.m., The Linda, 339 Central Ave., Friday, March 22 John Kribs Band, 8 p.m., The Part- Albany ing Glass Irish Pub and Restaurant, Thursday, March 28 Del & Dawg, 6 p.m., Troy Savings 40-42 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs Cousin Earth and Teddy Midnight Bank Music Hall, 30 2nd St., Troy The McKrells, 7 p.m., The Parting and the Purple Stuff, 8 p.m., The Brian Kane, 8 p.m., Corcoran’s Glass Irish Pub and Restaurant, 40- Hollow Kitchen + Bar, 79 N.Pearl Skeeter Creek, 8 p.m., The Rustic Towpath Tavern, 33 Saratoga Ave., 42 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs St., Albany Barn, 150 Spiegletown Road, Troy Waterford Jim Messina and Poco, 7:30 p.m., Joshua Redman Quartet, 8 p.m., The Kick, 8 p.m., Rivers Casino & Taco Night, 9 p.m., Parish Public Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Egg, Empire State Plaza Resort Schenectady, 1 Rush St., House, 388 Broadway, Albany 2nd St., Troy

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

WATERVLIET’S

I R I S H P U B !

MON - WED: 3:00 PM THURS - FRI: 11:00 AM SAT - SUN: 12:00 PM March 2019 Page 31 One toke over the (state) line By Mark Robarge I find it hypocritical that a nation iceberg. E-cigarette cartridges are etween that allows tobacco and alcohol to be my weapon of choice because vapes I smoked my first joint when I was openly sold and used by adults won’t are relatively inconspicuous (and B do the same for a substance whose because rolling a joint with my bad 15 and my latest (it’s actually a vape) The about 30 seconds before I started ines PROVEN short- and long-term dam- hand is a real bitch), but there is also writing this column. The intervening L age pales in comparison to either of oil, lotion, wax, shatter, butter (for 40 years have been an on-and-off well as those I aspired to emulate, had its legal “peers.” Add in the PROVEN you home “bakers”) and even drink relationship with marijuana where I demonized it and those who used it. medical benefits, and it should be an mix. And if your baking experience struggled more with its social accep- Thus, I became what Steve Miller outrage that it isn’t openly available is limited strictly to a bong, you can tance than its “illicit” effects. would refer to as a “midnight toker,” not only to adults, but also BY PRE- even pick up a literal dessert tray of I smoked about as much as the making my dirty little secret known SCRIPTION ONLY for children with marijuana-infused treats, including typical teen, and later adult, except only to those who also were, as we illnesses for which it has provided chocolate bars, cookies and, of course, for the semester at UAlbany when I came to call each other, “friends of PROVEN relief. brownies.. shared a suite with a pair of small- Johnny” (Johnny was one of our deal- I have personally applauded as By the lines waiting to get into time dealers – but that’s a story, to ers). My father did not know, and my state after state has legalized first these shops, even more than two quote Cheech and Chong, that has mother only knew because she found medical marijuana and then recre- months after opening, I’m far from long gone up in smoke.After that se- my stash in the suspended ceiling in ational weed. In fact, I anxiously alone in asserting that it’s about time we recognize the hypocrisy, as well as mester, though, I gave it up for nearly my bedroom closet (she was fighting awaited the opening of the first dis- pensaries to open just over the Mas- the opportunity to regulate the indus- a decade and resumed on a very casual breast cancer at the time, so she asked sachusetts state line, in Pittsfield and try and recognize some much-needed basis for a time here and there. me, half-seriously, if I could get her Great Barrington, and about a month revenue for a government overbur- The reason I went back and forth some). In fact, my father once told me after the first six shops had opened, I dened by need and underwhelmed had nothing at all to do with the that if he ever found the stuff under made my first trip over the state line by the means to cover even the most “drug” itself – I use the quotation his roof, he’d take us to the cops himself. since going to my last Red Sox game critical needs. marks because it’s hard to classify a 15 years ago (the names have been Gov. Andrew Cuomo has taken the My immoral dilemma was finally leaf as a drug, especially one with its changed to protect my co-defendents). first step in New York state, but some resolved nearly five years ago, when I potential benefits. No, I never had any What I expected and what I found of the same old tired – and inaccurate had surgery to replace two discs in my concern about addiction; the fact that could not have been more diametrical- – arguments are rearing their ugly and neck that had been causing me pain I could start and stop as easily as I did ly opposed. First off, I expected to be ignorant heads once again. The most was proof of that to me. for more than 20 years before finally what most of us know as “the creepy ridiculous assertions I hear are ones No, I never had any bad experienc- destroying the nerves in my right arm old guy at the bar.” But as we stood that blame weed for the stupidity of es while “under the influence” - other to the point where I permanently lost in a short line to get into the Temescal its user. After all, do you blame the than the aggravated assault of untold the use of three fingers. Though the Wellness dispensary in Pittsfield, I gun for the murder (unless you’re a bags of Dorito’s (nacho cheese, of surgery did relieve much of the pain struck up a conversation with a pair of hardcore liberal)? Or the booze for the course) and Domino’s pizzas. In fact, in my neck, the damaged nerves in my couples who appeared to be a couple drunken-driving crash? I was able to better focus my hyperac- fingers and up my arm would cause ticks ahead of me on the life clock. Here’s hoping smarter heads pre- tive mind, especially when it came to persistent but not unbearable pain, like I was surprised by their candor and vail over those that seem to continue studying; it helped me to relax in the I was being poked with tiny needles. wondered if maybe I was the one who to be stuck in the sand. After all, is it very stressful academic and social en- After some research, I discovered was too uptight. smarter to allow millions of people vironment of a major university; and it marijuana was considered a highly The selection is far from outstand- to have the relief (either medically made me more creative in my writing effective remedy for nerve pain. And ing, but each shop is promising to or recreationally) they so desparately (another reason I smoked up right the relief was nearly instantaneous expand its inventory as it grows. I seek, especially as an alternative to before sitting down to write this). after I took my first hit in about a was impressed, though, to find how truly addictive – and often deadly – My personal “struggle” with weed decade. I slept better and actually saw many ways you could impart nature’s opiods, or to deny that simply out of was how I would be perceived as a a bit of improvement in the mobility wonder drug. There was plenty of a hypocritical desire to protect people “stoner.” Even though friends and of the affected middle, ring and pinky bud, of course … excuse me, it’s now from themselves? family know I never passed up an fingers. called “flower” … in a variety of tasty I’m going to leave it at that … I’ve opportunity to have fun, no matter So I got over my self-esteem issues strains featuring the flavors of every- got a bag of Dorito’s with my name how outrageous, I tried to maintain and began not only admitting to the thing from lemon and berry to mint on it. the public image of a better person world - my father included – that I and tree – yes, I said tree; look it up than I felt I really was. And I had seen smoked pot, but also to advocate for on Leafly.com. Mark Robarge is a retired journal- how my father and his generation, as its legalization at every opportunity. But that was just the tip of the ist and editor of Xperience. 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