March 02, 2005

Midtown Video Premier

Midtown, whom we've never heard of before, aparently has a video. They also have an open bar that look to be comprised of our favorite Pennsylvanian beer, Yuengling, at 10:00pm. Come for the beer, maybe the video and live acousic set will be an added treat

Time: 10:00pm
Venue: Eleven (152 Orchard Street at Rivington)
Cost: Free

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March 03, 2005

Peck Allmond

Peck Allmond, a trumpet player who has beautiful tone and plays with Meshell N'Degeocello from time to time, has assembled an ensemble highlighting Kalimbas. Kalimbas are blocks of wood with metal extensions that when plucked make a sound something like a piano or a vibraphone. You can check out some sounds on Peck’s website: www.peckallmond.com. Also, Kenny Wollesen, a drummer who is one of the best musicians in the city hands down, is playing in the ensemble. He is reason enough to go and see any group play. (found by Justin at NewRelease)

Time: 10:00pm
Venue: at Zebulon (Wythe between North 3rd and Metropolitan, Williamsburg)
Cost: Free

Posted by Chris at 10:00 PM | TrackBack | Email to a friend

Peck Allmond

Peck Allmond, a trumpet player who has beautiful tone and plays with Meshell N'Degeocello from time to time, has assembled an ensemble highlighting Kalimbas. Kalimbas are blocks of wood with metal extensions that when plucked make a sound something like a piano or a vibraphone. You can check out some sounds on Peck’s website: www.peckallmond.com. Also, Kenny Wollesen, a drummer who is one of the best musicians in the city hands down, is playing in the ensemble. He is reason enough to go and see any group play. (found by Justin at NewRelease)

Time: 10:00pm
Venue: at Zebulon (Wythe between North 3rd and Metropolitan, Williamsburg)
Cost: Free

Posted by Chris at 10:00 PM | TrackBack | Email to a friend

March 04, 2005

Fire and Flux

Fire&Flux is an improvising duo of saxophone and drums that draws on
non-traditional traditions in freejazz and improvisation. Fire&Flux
plays spiritual-political music in an effort to raise spirits, to
provoke and excite, and to share some moments of explosive peace.

Tonight, the duo of Benjamin Kates and Richard Gilman-Opalsky drop two unique sets at 8:00pm and 9:00pm as a great way to start your evening.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: The Lucky Cat (245 Grand Street, Williamsburg)
Cost: Free

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Hopewell

Psycodellic rock band Hopewell perform tonight for free with RSVP.

Date: Friday, March 4th
Time: 11:00pm
Venue: Crash Mansion (199 Bowery)
Cost: Free with RSVP

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March 07, 2005

Next Monday

This new weekly residency is bringing together all of our favorite bands under one roof. Opening tonight's inaugural show are FreeNYC fav's The Epochs with their unique blend of electronic art rock. Following the Epochs is Jason Lindner's newest project, Big Pump which boast three drummers alongside Jason's innovative jazz piano. Tonight they are joined by MC Baba from Open Thought Music who blew us away at a Trumystic Sound System show a few years back. Highly recommended.

Time: 9:30pm - 4:00am
Venue: Nublu (62 Avenue C between 4th and 5th
Cost: $5

Posted by Chris at 09:30 PM

March 14, 2005

Next Monday, this Monday

The Next Monday party is back again. Tonight, Akron/Family plays "psyched out Americana. Very spacey and very very cool." The Epochs, who we recently learned were moving west for a bit to records (tear) will of course provide opening support.

Date: Monday, March 14th
Time: 9:30pm
Venue: Nublu (62 Avenue C between 4th and 5th)
Cost: $5

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March 21, 2005

Nublu Mondays

Monday night parties at Nublu continue again this week. The Epochs are back, followed by Dana Leong, who's played on stage with Ray Charles, Erykah Badu, Christian McBride and Talib Kweli among others, and his own ensemble. This kid's amazing. He plays seven different instruments including laptop, trombone and cello. He'll be joined by Tony Escapa and Jason Lindner tonight, and I'm sure other friends will drop by. Cocoa Cracker Brown and Shuga-Milk spin before, after, and in between sets.

Date: Monday, March 21st
Time: 9:30pm
Venue: Nublu (62 Avenue C b/w 4th and 5th)
Cost: $5

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March 28, 2005

Last Epochs Show

So by now you are probably really sick of us talking about the Epochs. Well good news for you, this will be the last post for a while as the band is heading off to Seattle to record their new album. This also means that tonight is your last time to catch the Epochs for quite a while. Don't say that we didn't tell you. With Cocoa Cracker Brown and Shuga Milk DJing afterwards

Date: Monday, March 28th
Time: 9:30pm or 10:00pm
Venue: Nublu (62 Ave. C)
Cost: $5

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March 30, 2005

Thank You, Cum Again

It's time for that crunky, punkly get low monthly, Pay to Cum. Featuring Early Adam and Early Man this week. Oh, and Come early for open vodka bar.

Date: Wednesday, March 30th
Time: 10:00pm
Venue: 151 Lounge (151 Rivington)
Cost: Free

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March 31, 2005

CasHank Hootenanny Jamboree

Take away the amps and the turntaples, add a bunch of guitars and maybe even some whiskey, take the last Thursday of every month plus the music of Johnny Cash and Hank Williams and you got yourself the CasHank Hootenanny. The rules are simple, no plugs and four cards, and every one is welcome to sing and play. The CasHank Hootenanny Jamboree was born at the Brooklyn Country Music Festival and is currently a monthly fixture at Buttermilk.

Date: Thursday, March 31st
Time: 9pm
Location: Buttermilk, 577 5th Ave Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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April 07, 2005

Life After Bloc Party

If you don't have a ticket to the Bloc Party show tonight, you can at least go hang out with the kids from Vice for the after party at Pianos. "Hand selected" by Bloc Party and performing will be Beans (at 1am) and Human Television (at 2am). Additionally, you got free Red Stripe from 12 to 1, and DJ sets from Spencer Product (We Bite, Up!, Elhaam (addVICE), Tarts of Pleasure, Kings of Boys (Russell and Matt of Bloc Party), Steve Aoki (Dim Mak). Kind of a late one for Thursday, but you can always nap at your desk on Friday.

Date: Thursday, April 7th
Time: 11:30pm - 4am
Location: Pianos, Ludlow and Stanton
Cost: Free with RSVP

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April 10, 2005

Trumystic

In honor of their new album, Dub Power, Trumystic will be playing at Sin Sin tonight. This Brooklyn based band is a "7 piece live dub alliance, on the cutting edge of reggae music. With vocalist Kirsty Rock at the helm (Easy Star All Stars-Dub Side of the Moon) partnered with bassist and cofounder Reggie Hodges (High Fidelity Dub Sessions #3), drummer, David Delgado (Yami Bolo, Marcia Griffith) & resident sound & science, Dept. of Dub. Accompanied with guitar, organ and horns, they deliver a ridiculously skilled and exciting dub experience." Click here to check out their sound.

Date: Sunday, April 10th
Time: ? still working on this one
Location: Sin Sin, 248 East 5th St
Cost: $7

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April 12, 2005

Victor Wooton Performance

Victor Wooton plays a mean bass. I mean, this guy has been awarded the Nashville Music Award for Bassist of the Year twice, the Bass Player of the Year award from Bass Player Magazine three times and was named one of the Top 10 Bass Innovators of the '90s by the same publication. If you love the low end, check out what this Flecktone can do on his own because his Irving show on Wednesday is probably sold out.

Date: Tuesday, April 12th
Time: 12:30pm
Venue: J&R Pop Store (23 Park Row)
Cost: Free

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April 17, 2005

A Free for All at Town Hall

The Free for All series brings classical music to Town Hall on a first come first serve basis. Tonight kicks off the series with Anne-Sofie von Otter and Bengt Forsberg performing works by Schubert and Haydn. Perfect cheap date activity. Check the website for the full calendar. More details below the fold.

Date: Sunday, April 17th
Time: 5:00pm (tickets available at noon)
Venue: Town Hall (123 West 43rd between 6th and 7th)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

Posted by Chris at 06:00 PM

April 23, 2005

Victory Day Celebration

"Alexandrov Chorus and Dance Ensemble of the Russian Army Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Victory Day." Thats all I have, sorry.

Date: Saturday, April 23rd
Time: 4:00pm
Venue: The Pier of the Intrepid (12th Avenue and 46th Street)
Cost: Free

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May 01, 2005

A Free for All at Town Hall

The Free for All series brings classical music to Town Hall on a first come first serve basis. The series continues tonight with classical piano from Peter Serkin. Check the website for the full calendar. More details below the fold.

Date: Sunday, May 1st
Time: 5:00pm (tickets available at noon)
Venue: Town Hall (123 West 43rd between 6th and 7th)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

Posted by Chris at 06:00 PM

May 02, 2005

NextMondays

The Nublu NextMondays series is consistantly bring new things to the live stage. Last month we watched big pump redefine percussion with digital, organic, and vocal rhythms. Before that the Epochs graced the stage for all of February. May brings us Lawrence 'Butch' Morris conducting the Nublu Orchestra.

A cornet player by trade, Morris invented Conduction, a system of physical movements that transcend the traditional role of conductor. He leads ensembles through improvisations that often take the form of complete songs, coaxing out themes, controlling dynamics, layering rhythms, and adding and subtracting instruments.

Butch’s relationship with the Nublu Orchestra is a special one. While he often uses Conduction with traditional classical and jazz ensembles, the Nublu musicians are as varied in style as the eclectic nights at the little living room venue on Avenue C. Among the players are Sylvia Gordon and Deantoni Parks of the electro-breakbeat outfit Kudu; Didi Gutman, Aaron Johnston, and Jesse Murphy of dance-tronica Brazilian Girls; Kenny Wollesen, who has worked with John Zorn, Love Trio, and Tom Waits; the avant-garde trumpet player Graham Haynes; minimal techno DJ, Hardedge; and Ilhan Ersahin, the leader of Wax Poetic, I Led Three Lives, and Love Trio. The result of the varied musical styles of the improvisers is unpredictable, weaving in and out of dub, left-field jazz, funk, and electronics. Continues every Monday this month.

Date: Monday, May 2nd
Time: 9:30pm
Venue: Nublu (62 Avenue C between 4th and 5th)
Cost: $5

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May 03, 2005

Mike Doughty Is Super Special

Mike Doughty, how I love him, let me count the ways! One, he was the lead singer for this band Soul Coughing. Two, he went to the same college as I did. Three, after the band split, he realesed this solo album, Skitish, that I could not live without. Four, he sings songs about fire tucks. Five, ok well thats enough of that, but thought you'd like to know that he is doing an in store performance and album signing tonight at Tower Records on West 4th.

Date: Tuesday, May 3rd
Time: 6:30pm
Loctation: Tower Records, Broadway and West 4th
Cost: Free

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May 06, 2005

Soundcheck Series: Chocolate Genius

On select Friday evenings the Whitney presents SoundCheck, a series of live music and literary events by some of downtown's most adventurous talent. Cocktails and snacks are available for purchase, and all exhibitions are open for viewing.

Marc Anthony Thompson (aka Chocolate Genius) and Stuart Matthewman appear together in an evening of electronic wizardry and sonic mayhem as they deconstruct and essentialize songs from the Chocolate Genius Inc. catalogue. Thompson has released four critically acclaimed solo albums, scored several films, and collaborated with many different artists, including Marc Ribot, Meshell N’degcello, Roger Guenevere Smith, Cibo Matto, Medeski, Martin and Wood, the Roots and Philip Glass. He has recorded the songs of a wide range of artists and eras -from Marvin Gaye¹s, “Ain¹t That Peculiar” (from the Oscar nominated film American Splendor), The Beatles, “Julia” (I Am Sam), Harold Arlen (Stormy Weather: The Harold Arlen Story) “Days” (from the CBS show Crossing Jordan). His latest album will be released on Commotion Records in the summer of 2005.

Date: Friday, May 6th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Whitney Museum of Art (945 Madison Ave at 75th Street)
Cost: Free with Admission (pay-what-you-wish)

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Cover This

Check out Copycat at Rififi tonight, for well, uh, some copycat antics. There will be cover songs, remixes and "do-overs." Plus catch an acoustic set by the band Group 7. There are cheap booze specials most of the night too. Ahhh, Friday night, how I love you!

Date: Friday, May 6th
Time: 9pm
Location: Rififi, 332 East 11th
Cost: Free

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May 10, 2005

SPOON!!!!

Okay, maybe I am the only one who conjures up images of a giant blue cartoon character upon hearing the mention of this band, but they killed it at Coachella last week so who cares. Their album was just released so they are playing an obligatory gig at Virgin Mega today to swoon you into buying it. Come check it out because you probably slept on tickets for their Webster Hall show and its probably sold out already. [found via NewRelease]

Date: Tuesday, May 10th
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: Virgin Megastore USQ (52 East 14th at Broadway)
Cost: Free

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May 13, 2005

ROCKem SOCKem

If the usual Friday night NYC scene of schmoozing and talking about business over a $300 bottle of Vodka (or a $2 PBR) is not on your list tonight, check out this party at Otto's featuring a couple of bands singing songs about all sorts of punk rock things (think tatoos, girls, zombies). here's the line-up:

10: Slaughterhouse Four - punk rock band that write songs about girls, zombies, alcohol and other things that will ruin your life.

11: Worldwar IX - Old school punk band with the energy of 10,000 Men (...or Women)

12: Jordan Cooper - Rocks the stage acoustic style.

Date: Friday, May 13th
Time: 10:00pm - 4:00am
Venue: Otto's Shrunken Head (383 14th between A and B)
Cost: Free

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May 18, 2005

Hang The DJ

Personally, I am a big fan of the DJ, but being an equal oppritunity writer, I figured I'd write this up for you guys. Tonight at Hang The DJ, besides the NYC indie rock band, The Picture, there will also be "gorgeous dancers" and (my favorite part) tequila specials.

Date: Wednesday, May 18th
Time: 11pm
Location: 17, 37 west 17th
Cost: Free

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May 21, 2005

Mamapalooza

The moms who rock are back in the park! In conjunction with the New York Parks Department, Mamapalooza returns to Riverside Park South. Celebrating all things maternal, this music and art filled afternoon of folk, rock and mom-inspired crafts and food is a gathering for all ages, celebrating mothers and the people who love them. Performers Include: Housewives on Prozac, BETTY, Motherlode Trio, Jenny Bruce, Momsense, Candy Band, Liz Queler, Jane Getter, and more!

Date: Saturday, May 21st
Time: 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Venue: Riverside Park South (Hudson River at W. 68th or W. 72nd Streets)
Cost: Free

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East River Music Project Kick-Off

You know summer is around the corner when the first of the outdoor free concert series listings comes up. The ERMP have been going strong for a few years now bringing bands to a great ampitheatre on the LES. The kick off features four bands we've never heard - cause co-motion!, greenpot bluepot, parts & labor, the evens - but who cares because it is sunny and outdoors!

Date: Saturday, May 21st
Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm (1:30 doors)
Venue: East River Ampitheatre (check site for directions)
Cost: Free

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May 24, 2005

Come Catch Common

With his new album coming out today, one of my favorite hip hop artists, Common, will be doing a free in-store performance and record signing at Tower Records in the village! Yay Common!

Date: Tuesday, May 24th
Time: 6pm
Location: Tower Records, West 4th and B'way
Cost: Free

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May 27, 2005

Today's Early Morning Music Delivery

Ok people its that time of year again where FreeNYC posts all sorts of outdoor events. To start off we have the Today Show Concert series. Basically they bring big name acts to Rockefeller Plaza super early in the morning. Now if you want the full schedule, you can click that link above, but I plan on using some descresion in which ones I post ('casue really, it's hard for me to have to write about bands like Backstreet Boys). Anyway, this morning the Today Show brings you Def Leppard and Bryan Adams.

Date: Friday, May 27th
Time: 7am
Location: Rockefeller Plaza
Cost: Free

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May 29, 2005

African Blue Note in Central Park

Led by Camerounean guitarist and vocalist Martino Atangana, this group heats up a mix of African musical styles, including “juju” from Nigeria, “soukous” from Congo, “bikutsi” and “makossa” from Cameroun, “high life” from Ghana, and more. Mr. Atangana has recorded and performed with Paul Simon, Jean-Luc Ponty, Manu Dibango and a host of other important African band leaders. Full info.

Date: Sunday, May 29th
Time: 4:00pm
Venue: Central Park, The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (110th St. between Fifth & Lenox Avenues)
Cost: Free

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A Free for All at Town Hall

The Free for All series brings classical music to Town Hall on a first come first serve basis. The series continues tonight with classical piano from André Watts. Check the website for the full calendar. More details below the fold.

Date: Sunday, May 29th
Time: 5:00pm (tickets available at noon)
Venue: Town Hall (123 West 43rd between 6th and 7th)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

Posted by Chris at 07:00 PM

June 03, 2005

Today's Early Morning Music Delivery

Another concert from the Today Show. Black Eyed Peas wake you up this time.

Date: Friday, June 3rd
Time: 7am
Location: Rockefeller Plaza
Cost: Free

Posted by Lindsay at 07:00 AM | TrackBack | Email to a friend

What's Good?

These kids haven't thrown a party in a minute (something about being on tour with KRS or something, I dont know, but I guess its a good enough excuse.) Anyway, Falldown means good people and good hip hop at our good ol' favorite, Asterisks. Sounds like a good night to me.

Date: Friday, June 3rd
Time: 10pm
Location: Asterisk, 258 Johnson
Cost: $5; Ladies free before 12

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June 05, 2005

CMJ Battle Of The Bands

Here is a great activity for a Sunday afternoon...head over to Grand Army Plaza and check out the CMJ Battle of the Bands. "Ten music groups of any genre will be chosen by CMJ to perform live. Five judges, including Adam Shore (Vice Records) and Danny Simmons (Def Poetry) will choose one Grand Prize Winner plus a First and Second Runner Up. The Grand Prize Winner will receive a premier performance at the 2005 CMJ Music Marathon in New York City and at the 2005 Brooklyn New Music festival." Bands will include Cousin Cut, the Wires, d-Cyphernauts, Dutch Kills, Faith, The Fandanglers, Fast Breakin Classics, Graeme K, Jessie Diamond and the Thousand and Paul Brill. The show starts at 1.

Date: Sunday, June 5th
Time: 1pm
Location: Grand Army Plaza
Cost: Free

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June 06, 2005

Before and After the Futureheads

The Futureheads are playing Webster Hall tonight. Beforehand, however, they will be playing a free acoustic show at Pianos. You need to swing by any of the Swatch stores in town, however, and pick up a wrist band for entry.

Date: Monday, June 6th
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: Pianos (158 Ludlow at Stanton)
Cost: Free with wrist band

And after the show - although I doubt the show will be over by then - there is an afterwapry at Black and White with free Red Stripe until Midnight. Music by Melody Nelson and DJ Davie.

Date: Monday, June 6th
Time: 11:00pm
Venue: Black and White (86 East 10th between 3rd and 4th)
Cost: Free

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June 14, 2005

The Wright Stuff

Okay so I was just going to throw the official release at you all this morning because I am late for work but then I checked out Liz Wrights site and listened to it a bit. She can sing. I mean think silky, buttery smooth jazz vocal in perfect super-laid back sunny afternoon style. Check this out after work while you watch the sunset over the Hudson. You'll be glad you did. Check her site for audio examples. Official release after the fold

Date: Tuesday, June 14th
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Venue: World Financial Center Plaza
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

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June 15, 2005

Arlo Guthrie

In celebration of the 40th anniversary release of the seminal album "Alice’s Restaurant", legendary folk singer and prolific wordsmith Arlo Guthrie performs the album from start to finish. Based on true events, the album speaks of the triumphant little man against the political machine. For this special performance, The Mammals, often referred to as subversive acoustic traditionalists, will open the show.

Date: Wednesday, June 15th
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Venue: Nelson A. Rockefeller Park
Cost: Free

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Rickie Lee Jones Helps Celebrate Brooklyn

Celebrate Brooklyn kicks off the summer with a rare New York appearance by RICKIE LEE JONES, in her first live performance since releasing a new album this spring. A vivid storyteller and one of the most evocative singers in the history of pop music, Jones has inspired a generation of songwriters; her latest work reveals that she's as vital, surprising, and enchanting as ever.

Date: Wednesday, June 15th
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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June 17, 2005

Bad Plus & Charlie Hunter Help Celebrate Brooklyn

"An unbeatable jazz triple: Maverick piano/power trio BAD PLUS shatters genre boundaries with high-energy rock covers and intense originals. "Moving, mighty music -- bad in all the right ways." - Rolling Stone

The eight-string guitar wizard CHARLIE HUNTER makes a huge sound that's "astonishing...dirtily funky" (CMJ), and JAMES CARTER, whom Lester Bowie once called "the greatest sax player to come around since Coltrane," swings in with his organ trio to complete the best jazz night of the summer."

Date: Friday, June 17th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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June 18, 2005

Philadanco

Philadelphia's spectacular company comes to Brooklyn for a full evening of breathtakingly athletic dance. A trailblazer in the African American dance community since 1970, PHILADANCO has become one of the country's leading ensembles with a consistently imaginative and compelling repertory and a joyful, exuberant approach to performance.

Date: Saturday, June 18th
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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June 19, 2005

A Free for All at Town Hall

The Free for All series brings classical music to Town Hall on a first come first serve basis. The series continues tonight with the Opus One Piano Quartet. Check the website for the full calendar. More details below the fold.

Date: Sunday, June 19th
Time: 5:00pm (tickets available at noon)
Venue: Town Hall (123 West 43rd between 6th and 7th)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

Posted by Chris at 06:00 PM

June 21, 2005

Today's Early Morning Music Delivery

Today you get James Taylor bright and early at Rockefeller Plaza. Just FYI...a couple weeks ago my Pops sent me an mp3 of the James Taylor lullaby he used to sing to me as a kid...he's a sentimental one I'll tell ya.

Date: Tuesday, June 21st
Time: 7am
Location: Rockefeller Plaza
Cost: Free

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Opera in the Park

It seems that the Metropolitain Opera is never in their house anymore. Tonight they are traveling again - this time to Prospect Park - to perform Samson et Dalila by Camille Saint-Saëns.

Date: Tuesday, June 21st
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park - Lower Long Meadow
Cost: Free

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June 22, 2005

Dar Williams

"With her sweet, clear voice, observant lyrics, and exquisitely sculpted melodies, Dar Williams occupies a unique musical space., displaying a harmony of both pop and singer-songwriter sensibilities. Dar's insight continues to make personal experiences universal.

The Madison Square Park Conservancy presents its third and most ambitious season of free concerts on the Oval Lawn of historic Madison Square Park. Mad. Sq. Music 2005 presents consistently fresh, surprising, high-quality music by exciting performers in a variety of genres-folk, jazz, funk, world music, and pop."

Date: Wednesday, June 22nd
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Madison Square Park (between 23rd and 26th at Fifth Ave)
Cost: Free

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June 23, 2005

Sucker Free... Ticket Alert

Doug E. Fresh, Black Sheep, and a bunch of other "back in the day" hip-hop stars - along with current acts such as Young Gunz - are invading BB Kings for a free show on July 2nd. Here's the catch, you need to pick up tickets and you should probably do it today. So stop by the box office and get the goods.

TICKET INFO:
Date: Thursday, June 23rd
Time: 11:00am
Venue: BB Kings (237 West 42nd) or the MTV Store (44th and Broadway)
Cost: Free (limit 4 per person)

EVENT INFO
Date: Saturday, July 2nd - TICKETS AVAILABLE TODAY
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: BB Kings Blues Club and Grill (237 West 42nd Street)
Cost: Free with Ticket.

Posted by Chris at 11:00 AM | TrackBack | Email to a friend

Lalah Hathaway at BAM

Lalah Hathaway, daughter of soul legent Donny Hathatway and classical singer Eulalah Hathaway, performs at BAM's Rhythem and Blues Series today. In possession of a luscious, resonantly smoky voice that hypnotizes fans the world over, Hathaway’s credits include collaborations with Mary J. Blige, Dizzy Gillespie, Meshell Ndegéocello, and Stevie Wonder. Her latest recording, Outrun the Sky, is a candid reflection on love and relationships that displays Hathaway’s soaring musical resiliency.

Date: Thursday, June 23rd
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Venue: Metrotech (click for directions)
Cost: Free

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Celebrate South Africa

This once in a lifetime event featuring two of South Africa's greatest artists begins with a performance by iconic jazz trumpeter and world fusion pioneer HUGH MASEKELA. Following the concert, internationally renowned visual artist WILLIAM KENTRIDGE presents his astonishing film/live music project 9 DRAWINGS FOR PROJECTION -- a collection of vibrant animations accompanied by a string quartet with voice, piano, and trumpet, with music composed and conducted by Kentridge's longtime collaborator Philip Miller

Date: Thursday, June 23rd
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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June 24, 2005

Antibalas And Soulive...Live

This should be a good Friday night activity, you get to hang out in the Prosepct Park Bandshell and dance around a bit! "Dueling grooves are on tap as the organ- driven Jazz-meets-Sly Stone soul of SOULIVE...goes head to head with ANTIBALAS, whose thunderous concoction of Afrobeat, Latin dance rhythms, and good old American Funk has made them a Brooklyn favorite."

Date: Friday, June 24th
Time: 7:30
Location: Prospect Park Bandshell, Prospect Park W & 9th St
Cost: Free (well there is a $3 suggested donation)

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June 25, 2005

David Pajo (Slint) at East River Amphitheatre

This will be ERMP's second show of the summer featuring grizzly bear (ambient folk-pop), soft circle (rhythmic, experimental work), and miighty flashlight (low-key, electronically augmented folk). Oh, and did we mention that ex-Slint frontman David Pajo is headlining the day. Yeah, thats kind of important (sweet... sweet... Kentucky love).

Date: Saturday, June 25th
Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Venue: East River Ampitheatre (click for directions)
Cost: Free

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June 26, 2005

A Free for All at Town Hall

The Free for All series brings classical music to Town Hall on a first come first serve basis. Tonight is the series finale with percussionist Evelyn Glennie. Check the website for the full calendar. More details below the fold.

Date: Sunday, June 26th
Time: 5:00pm (tickets available at noon)
Venue: Town Hall (123 West 43rd between 6th and 7th)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

Posted by Chris at 06:00 PM

June 28, 2005

Richard Thompson

Description: Legendary guitar maestro Richard Thompson performs an extraordinary solo, acoustic show. Hailed by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the ‘World’s 100 Greatest Guitarists’ (No. 19), he was an early pioneer of the folk-rock.

Date: Tuesday, June 28th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: World Trade Center Plaza
Cost: Free

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June 30, 2005

Eddie Palmieri at BAM

Eddie Palmieri’s musical career spans 40 years as bandleader of salsa and Latin jazz orchestras. His virtuosity on the piano has earned him seven Grammy Awards, including the first presentation for Best Latin Album for the 1975 The Sun of Latin Music. Born in Spanish Harlem, Palmieri’s influences include not only hot Cuban players of the 1940s and jazz luminaries Art Tatum, Bud Powell, and Miles Davis, but also his family’s Puerto Rican roots. Palmieri seeks to captivate and elevate the senses with his music, taking audiences where percussive, pounding piano swings hot and wild.

Date: Thursday, June 30th
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Venue: Metrotech (click for directions)
Cost: Free

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July 01, 2005

Queens Battle of the Bands

Watch local bands battle it out of the title of Queens finest.

Date: Friday, July 1st
Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Venue: George Seuffert Bandshell, Forest Park
Cost: Free

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Bilal at Celebrate Brooklyn

Neo soul renaissance man Bilal's passionate, urban storytelling has put him in elite company: he's a member of the Soul Aquarians collective, along with Erykah Badu, Mos Def, ?uestlove, Q-Tip, and D'Angelo. With the infectious R&B funk of Brooklyn born and raised Martha Redbone.

Date: Friday, July 1st
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 suggested)

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July 02, 2005

Music of Nick Drake

When he died in 1974 at the age of 26, British folksinger Nick Drake was a commercial failure, yet over the last thirty years he has become an icon of romantically tragic music. This celebration of Nick Drake will feature New York musicians Josh Max and Julie James, www.themaxes.com (plus some special guests) and an orchestra led by arranger Robert Kirby, who collaborated with Drake on some of his most beautiful songs.

Date: Saturday, July 2nd
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Central Park SummerStage
Cost: Free

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Shadow at Celebrate Brooklyn

Shadow, Trinidad's fiercest Calypsonian, riles up the soca faithful with thumping basslines, addictive grooves, and heavy lyrics delivered in his deep, unmistakable voice. Two great local Trinidadian poets, Roger Bonair-Agard and Cheryl Boyce Taylor (Brooklyn and Queens, respectively), get this evening of wordplay off to a fine start.

Date: Saturday, July 2nd
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 suggested)

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July 03, 2005

King of Rai

The self-proclaimed “king of rai,” Khaled Hadj Brahim was born in Algeria in 1960. As a young man he was fiercely drawn to rai, the officially despised but wildly popular music of Algeria’s outcasts. When he started collaborating with producer Rachid Baba Ahmed, Cheb (“Young”) Khaled revolutionized rai, turning it into a synthesizer and drum-machine driven pop music in which the modern sound and racy lyrics were an implicit challenge to Algeria’s conservative culture.

In the mid-‘80s, fundamentalist violence forced him to relocate to France, from which he has continued to push the boundaries of rai, exploring its affinity with funk, reggae and R&B. This is Khaled’s second visit to SummerStage (1991).

Date: Sunday, July 3rd
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Central Park SummerStage
Cost: Free

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July 04, 2005

Yo La Tengo / Jicks

This annual Independence Day concert showcases a blockbuster double bill featuring legendary indie-rock trio Yo La Tengo, whose creative and intelligent sounds have delighted critics and audiences for more than two decades. Freewheeling singer-songwriter and former Pavement front man Stephen Malkmus with his band The Jicks will rock the park with tunes from his new album Face the Truth. Country songstress Laura Cantrell will open the show. For information call (212) 835-2789.

Date: Monday, July 4th
Time: 3:30 - 5:00pm
Venue: Battery Park
Cost: Free

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July 07, 2005

Von Bondies Rock the River

In this first installment of the River Rocks series, The Von Bondies will play a sunset show on Pier 54. Through their provocative persona, unerring instincts and alluring , they have elevated their status as one of today’s most influential and innovative young bands after just one independent release.

Date: Thursday, July 7th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Pier 54 (West Street and 13th Street)
Cost: Free

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Like Shooting Trout in a Cake Shop

Justin from NewRelease tells me that Lake Trout are going to be rocking a free gig at the newest hipster hot spot, Cake Shop, tonight. Thats good because its hot and summer and my internal hippie is coming out in full force to see their blend of jammy Radiohead-esque melodies.

Date: Thursday, July 7th
Time: 7:30 or 8:30pm
Venue: Cake Shop (152 Ludlow between Stanton and Rivington)
Cost: Free

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July 10, 2005

Blind Boys / Citizen Cope!!!

Every Year there is one SummerStage show that I will not miss. That I will sit in that miserable line under 90 degree heat, have some bouncer strip search me, and remember the joy of a port-o-john at those temperatures all for the amazing music. This is it...

Formed in 1939 at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind, The Blind Boys have been making transcendent gospel music for almost seven decades. They’ve starred on Broadway (The Gospel At Colonus), recorded with artists such as Lou Reed, Ibrahim Ferrer and Solomon Burke and recently won their fourth Grammy Award for an album of gospel soul recorded with young blues guitarist Ben Harper.

Clarence Greenwood, A.K.A. Citizen Cope, has his feet in two different musical worlds. His keen appreciation of alternative hip-hop (gained from his work a decade ago with Maryland rapper Basehead) collides with his love of classic blues and results in a compelling mix of the old and new. Greenwood’s poetic narratives of the lost and lonely will send chills down your spine even as they make you want to dance.

Date: Sunday, July 10th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Central Park SummerStage
Cost: Free

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July 11, 2005

R& B Celebration

So maybe you DON'T want to see a movie today. Then how about a little back-in-the-day R & B celebration. The Martin Luther King Jr. Concert Series kicks off tonight with The Dells, Russell Thompkins Jr & The New Stylistics, and Ray, Goodman & Brown.

Date: Monday, July 11th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Wingate Field (Winthrop Street between Brooklyn and Kingston Aves)
Cost: Free

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July 12, 2005

New York Philharmonic in Prospect Park

Thrilling music, followed by fireworks, on the beautiful Long Meadow! The Park’s state-of-the-art stage features a wireless broadcast and excellent sound. Pack a picnic and bring your family and friends! Featuring:

Wagner: The Flying Dutchman Overture
Lalo: Symphonie espagnole
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5

Date: Tuesday, July 12th
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park, Long Meadow
Cost: Free

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July 13, 2005

Bio Ritmo

"The "Salsa Machine" writes songs using essential elements from the Golden Age of Salsa, respecting traditional styles while embracing the concept of artistic exploration that once gave Salsa its strength. Oweing its chemistry to 14 years of performing experience, each of its nine members contributes a unique musical voice working to develop an original alternative to the widely heard watered down Salsa of the commercial airwaves."

Date: Wednesday, July 13th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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Wailers at Sunset

Yes, THE Wailers. In 1971 Aston "Familyman" Barrett took over as Bob Marley and The Wailers’ musical director becoming the driving force behind their distinctive sound on stage and in the studio. For the first time since 1968, The Wailers entered the international spotlight because of his musical expertise. Since Marley’s death the band has continued to tour, sharing its musical vision with the world. Tonight they perform for free at sunset. How awesome in New York City some times!

Date: Wednesday, July 13th
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Venue: Nelson A. Rockefeller Park
Cost: Free

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July 14, 2005

Son Volt and Dr. Dog on the Pier

They sold out the Delancy so here's your chance to catch them for free...

Date: Thursday, July 14th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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Free Roots

There is super secret Roots show on Pier 54 tonight. You need to sign up at Fusion - Flash Concerts to get into the show. Sign up is, of course, free.

Date: Thursday, July 14th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Hudson River Park, Pier 54
Cost: Free

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July 15, 2005

Shelby Lynne

Celebrated country rock singer-songwriter Shelby Lynne became an overnight sensation when she released “I Am Shelby Lynn” in 2000. The mature, gritty album won her the Best New Artist Grammy Award—a sweet irony, considering she had already recorded six albums and spent over a decade toiling in music biz obscurity. Lynne’s music combines all the rich strains of the American tradition: country, blues, rock, gospel, soul, Western swing and jazz. “Shelby Lynne, like k.d. lang and Willie Nelson before her, is making a career out of freeing country from its own constrictions.“

Date: Friday, July 15th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Central Park SummerStage
Cost: Free

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Charlie Musselwhite at Celebrate Brooklyn

Few can touch country blues harmonica master CHARLIE MUSSELWHITE, who effortlessly "mixes music from his Mississippi Delta roots with Chicago jump, jazz, and rock 'n' roll to effect a totally unique sound." (Biloxi Sun Herald)

Date: Friday, July 15th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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July 16, 2005

Sweet Singing Sea Nymphs

Well, if you are one of the lucky few who manage to get up close enough to the stage to actually hear the music, Siren Fest is a great oppritunity to see some good bands play for free. For the rest of us who end up way in the back, this is a great oppritunity to openly get drunk on the street, act a fool and eat a Nathan's hot dog. Since 2001 the Village Voice has been bringing the Siren Fest to Coney Island, giving New Yorkers a great summer afternoon of music. This year's line up includes Spoon, Q And Not U, The Dears, Ambulance LTD, Mates of State, VHS or BETA, Saul Williams and a number of others. Click here for the full line up.

Date: Saturday, June 16th
Time: 1pm - 10pm
Location: Coney Island, Main Stage on West 10th, Side Stage on Stillwell
Cost: Free

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Celebrate New Orleans

The spirit of the Big Easy comes to Central Park with this special celebration of the music and culture of New Orleans. If there’s one performer who embodies that spirit it’s trumpeter, singer and bandleader Kermit Ruffins. Renowned for live shows that feature vintage down-home jazz and abundant good humor, Ruffins is a showman and entertainer in the vein of Crescent City great Louis Armstrong. Named after their boss’ habit of serving his audience fresh Southern barbecue between sets (sorry: don’t look for that at SummerStage), The Barbecue Swingers are masters of the rollicking old-time jazz sound. There’s no doubt that Ruffins and The B.B.Q.’s will show Central Park how to have a good time, N’awlins-style.

Date: Saturday, July 16th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Summer Stage (Rumsey Field, Central Park)
Cost: Free

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July 17, 2005

Giant Step 15th Anniversay (Summerstage)

What's not to like here. You have local turntable guru DJ Nickodemus from Turntables on the Hudson spinning his migs of organic jazzy hip-hop, local heros Brazillian Girls playing their unique blend of electronic bossa nova to make the hipsters swoon, and afro-beat legend Femi Kuti. Its all because Giant Step is turning 15 years old and its all for free. Highly Recommended (aka arrive early)

Date: Sunday, July 17th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Summerstage (Rumsey Field, Central Park)
Cost: Free

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July 19, 2005

Tinariwen

Having met at a rebel training camp in Libya, the members of Tinariwen traded in their guns for guitars to play songs of resistance. Their music calls for a political awakening of consciousness and approaches the problems of exile, repression in their home country of Mali, and claims of sovereignty for the Tuareg people.

Starting the show, Ramatou Diakite fuses her culture’s bluesy-funky song styling with a nod towards hip-hop to create a wholly unique sound. Having grown up in the Wassoulou region of southern Mali, renowned for its musical richness, spiritual traditions and hunters’ lore, she has emerged as a powerful singer.

Date: Tuesday, July 19th
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Venue: World Financial Center Plaza
Cost: Free

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Boot Camp Click (feat. Smif' N Wessun)

Boot Camp Click is hard-core hip-hop stripped down to its purest form: deft rhyming over spare, hard-as-nails beats. Featuring rap philosophers Buckshot, Sean Price and Smif ‘N Wessun, this reunited hip-hop crew weaves clear-eyed street tales with infectious party tracks: the perfect recipe for a summer’s day in Fort Greene.

Date: Tuesday, July 19th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Fort Freene Park
Cost: Free

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July 20, 2005

Roy Ayers!

Wow... Roy Ayers is a legend. He's been changing the face of music since the 1960's, beginning as a jazz vibraphonist and then expanding into R&B/funk & disco. He is now considered to be an icon of modern music. At 64 years old, he is a man who is always looking decades ahead of his time. Many artists have sampled his music, and yet there’s still so much more to discover about Roy Ayers. And tonight, he plays a free show in Crotona Park. Its good to be a New Yorker some times.

Date: Wednesday, July 20th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue:Crotona Park, Bronx
Cost: Free

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July 21, 2005

Donna's Rock the River

Female indie-rock goddesses The Donnas invade the pier for a special sunset show. They are joined by Ok Go, Rock n Roll Soldiers, and DJ Ayres.

Date: Thursday, July 21st
Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Venue: Pier 54 (West Side Highway and 14th Street)
Cost: Free

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M. Ward at Castle Clinton

Versatile singer-songwriter M. Ward combines witty storytelling, soulful vocals and impressive arrangements featuring folk and blues guitar. Music at Castle Clinton concerts are free. Tickets are required and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, two per person, at Castle Clinton starting at 5pm on concert day.

Date: Thursday, July 21st
Time: 7:00 - 8:30pm (tickets at 5:00pm)
Venue: Castle Clinton, Battery Park
Cost: Free with ticket

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Sounds Like Paper

Its seems like paper has wrangled up all the local rock heros for this one. Morningwood, Elkland, and The Star Spangles perform while you drink free Budweiser down at one of our favorite classic rock venues.

Date: Thursday, July 21st
Time: 8:00pm - 11:00pm
Venue: Don Hill's (511 Greenwich at Spring)
Cost: Free with RSVP by July 19th

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July 23, 2005

Boriqua Festival!

A celebration of Puerto Rican music all day at the bandshell... artist bio's below the fold.

2:00pm Trio Los Gentiles
2:40pm La Salsa de Hoy
3:30pm Miguel Algarin
3:50pm Boys Harbor Conservatory Youth Ensemble
4:50pm Bimbo “El Oso Manoso”
6:00pm William Cepeda Bombashe
7:30pm Eddie Palmieri y La Perfecta II

Date: Saturday, July 23rd
Time: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell
Cost: Free ($3 suggested)

Click for More Info

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BETTY / Tracy Bonham at Summerstage

"BETTY is a five-piece pop rock alternative band from New York City. Fronted by three full-on females, the band's unique sound is based on the "spine-tingling harmonies" (Billboard) of songwriters Amy Ziff, Alyson Palmer and Elizabeth Ziff layered over propulsive guitars and a fat-bottomed rhythm section. " They are joined today by Tracy Bonham and Jane Siberry.

Date: Saturday, July 23rd
Time: 3:00pm (doors: 1:30)
Venue: Summerstage, Rumsey Playfield
Cost: Free

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July 24, 2005

Brooklyn Country Music Festival

This weekend and next Brooklyn will be hosting its 2nd Annual Country Music Festival. "The Brooklyn Country Music Festival is a grass-roots effort put forth for the sheer love of the music. The bands work for tips. We hope you have a good time at this and several other events we put together including The Brooklyn Country Music Festival, The CasHank Hootenanny Jamboree, The Brooklyn Winter Hoedown, & JugFest. Alex also performs his own country compositions in his act called The Whisky Rebellion, which contains anywhere from 1-7 members, depending on venue constraints and the weather."

Date: July 21st - 24th and July 28th - 31st (schedule)
Time: Varies by day
Location: Freddy's Bar & Backroom, 485 Dean St. at Sixth Ave., Park Slope
Cost: Free

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July 28, 2005

Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings

Sharon Jones was born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, and like many great soul singers began her career singing in the church choir on Sundays. It wasn’t long before she was performing with top soul acts the Four Tops, Peaches and Herb, and The Drifters, and captivating audiences with her powerfully smoky-sweet voice. Her electrifying spirituality has earned her many instant classics on the underground funk scene, crowning her “The Queen of Funk.” She’s joined on stage by Daptone Records house band The Dap Kings.

Date: Thursday, July 28th
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Venue: Metrotech, Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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Better Than Jenny From the Block

Did you know that you can still go to the Bronx and catch a true school Hip Hop park jam featuring legendary DJs? Well, at Crotona Park it goes down every Thursday in July from 6pm - 9 pm. Tools of War is in it's 3rd year of coordinating these jams and they never want it to end! This is the Bronx's best kept secret but everyone is welcome! Tonight hear GrandMaster Caz, GrandWizzard Theodore and The Original Jazzy Jay (Strong City). Hosted by: PopMaster Fabel. FREE! This is the last night in our 4 part series and one not to be missed. The DJs will be spinning special sets for all the b-boys & b-girls in the city for Rock Steady's 28th Anniversary.

Date: July 28th
Time: 6-9pm
Venue: Charlotte St. and Crotona Park East, Bronx NY.
Take the 2 or 5 to 174th St. Walk South on Boston Road to Suburban Place. Right onto Crotona Park East. Left to Charlotte. or BUS: BX 17 or BX11.
Cost: Free

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Poison Lovers

The Poison Lovers, staring David Gates from the Lazy Aces (and from those outstanding works of literature on your shelf) and Dave Wilson from the Jim Daves will perform hunky dorey music on Freebird's back patio. Bring your friends, family, and wee ones to get down and get crazy, drink a beer and/or eat a corn dog.

Date: Thursday, July 28th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Freebird Books, Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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Trammps

The Tramps wrote "Disco Inferno." Here this and more tonight on the pier

Date: Thursday, July 28th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: South Street Seaport (fulton street and water street)
Cost: Free

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Milly Quezada at Celebrate Brooklyn

Dominican diva Milly Quezada - "la Reina del Merengue" - is a bona fide international superstar, having toured the world and topped the Billboard charts. This night pairs the traditional with the newest of the new: Grupo Aguakate will whip the crowd into a frenzy with its irresistible party vibe mash up of reggaetón, merengue, and hip-hop.

Date: Thursday, July 28th
Time: 7:30 pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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July 29, 2005

The Sound of Prospect Park

The hills of Prospect Park are alive with the sound of the Von Trapp family singing their little hearts out in the greatest musical of them all! Julie Andrews stars in this epic 1965 wide-screen masterpiece. The evening begins with the wacky mobile percussion of SLAM, drummer Kenny Wollesen's raucous marching band.

Date: Friday, July 29th
Time: 7:30 pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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Octagon CD Release Party

The Octagon will be celebrating their upcoming record release tonight and they will be joined by two other bands - Stay Fucked and The Spies. There will be free beer, CDs, and a good time available to all who come out for this. Listen to their track "Ghost Life Road" here.

Date: Friday, July 29th
Time: 9:00pm
Venue: Otto's Shrunken Head (538 14th Street, between A + B)
Cost: Free

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July 30, 2005

Motor City Central Park

How much do you like experiencing something out of its normal context? Ever talked with a therapist about that? It's not that bad. Try Detroit pre-punk (take that pitchfork) MC5 at SummerStage. With The Sun-Ra Arkestra, directed by Marshall Allen. Plus Special Guests Suphala & DJ Spooky, curator.

Date: June 30
Time: 3:00 pm
Venue: Central Park SummerStage
Cost: free

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Reggae Heritage

Denroy Morgan's reggae legacy lives on through his children in Morgan Heritage, which pairs R&B flavored grooves with gospel harmonies and Rastafarian lyrics. Don Minott opens with a set of socially, politically, and spiritually positive roots and lover's rock.

Date: Saturday, July 30th
Time: 7:30 pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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July 31, 2005

African Festival

The 14th annual African Festival is an all-day extravaganza of music, food, and culture featuring artists from around the continent. "The Lion of Zimbabwe," and one of Africa's most acclaimed singer-songwriters, Thomas Mapfumo, and his band, Tthe Blacks Unlimited, leads the way, with Senegalese hip-hop sensations Gokh-Bi System and the stunning Cape Verdian songbird Maria De Barros also taking the stage. Kakande's traditional Mande music of West Africa and Alain Nkossi Konda, who mixes DRC soukous with funk and reggae learned in the urban jungle of NYC, round out the lineup.

Date: Sunday, July 31st
Time: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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August 02, 2005

Stars of Tomorrow

Classical and Jazz students from the Manhattan School of Music perform a pre-sunset show on the pier tonight. Grab your wine-in-a-paper-bag and head over after work.

Date: Tuesday, August 2nd
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Venue: Pier 45 (West 10th Street and Hudson River)
Cost: Free

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August 03, 2005

Chris Smither and Thea Gilmore

From the city of New Orleans, Chris Smither shares his of brand of humanist, poetic blues. With Thea Gilmore. Part of the Seaport Music Festival.

Date: Wednesday August 3rd
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 04, 2005

James Blood Ulmer

Guitarist, vocalist, and composer James Blood Ulmer hovers atop the pantheon of American music mavericks. Offering a frenetic concoction of free jazz and funk in the 70s, his latest recordings have found him singing the great American blues songbook in the widely acclaimed Memphis Blood: The Sun Sessions and No Escape From the Blues: The Electric Lady Sessions. In his new Birthright, Ulmer submerges himself into the depths of his own life’s experiences, forging fierce and holy music with vision and virtuosity.

Date: Thursday, August 4th
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Venue: Metrotech, Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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RiverRocks: Funky Nation

"The sound and spirit of Louisiana come to the Hudson River with spectacular multicultural music experience. It will be one big party when Big Sam’s Funky Nation brings their unique brand of funk to NYC that won’t let you sit still. Los Hombres Calientes: Irvin Mayfield & Bill Summers continues this “Celebration of Louisiana Music” with a style that brings together the sounds of the Carribbean, South Africa and the backstreets of New Orleans. Wrapping up the evening: Jose Conde Y Ola Fresca"

Hear some tracks by Big Sam's Funky Nation
Listen to Lost Hombres Calientes; Vodou Hoodoo Babalu (real)

Date: Thursday, August 4th
Time: 7:00pm (gates at 6:00pm)
Venue: Pier 54 (14th street and Hudson River)
Cost: Free

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BT Express

Brooklyn's own funk legends BT Express perform at South Street Seaport. Apparently, there is a BT (stands for Brooklyn Transit) Express day. Celebrate early (or late) this year.

Date: Thursday August 4th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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Patti Smith at Summerstage

Legendary punk priestess Patti Smith needs no introduction. Though this is only her third appearance at Rumsey Playfield—her first performance in 1993 was one of the highpoints of the festival’s history—the poet and rocker is a SummerStage favorite. Janet Thammill opens with spoken word backed by musical trio Moving Star.

Listen to Patti Smith's Stride of the Mind (quicktime)
Listen to Janet Thammill's My Macumba (M3U)

Date: Thursday, August 4th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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August 05, 2005

The Sweet Guilty Pleasure that is Jessica Simpson

Get up early and hang with the screaming tourists as America's latest poster girl, Jessica Simpson, performs in Bryant park for Good Morning America. Performance is 7-9 but we suggest you get their early.

Date: Friday, August 5th
Time: 7:00am - 9:00am
Venue: Bryant Park, Upper Terrace (42nd and 5th)
Cost: Free

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Tiempo Libre at South Street Seaport

The Denver post calls Tiempo Libre "the hottest timba group in the United States." Don't take their word for it.

Date: Friday August 5rd
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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Brad Mehldau at Summerstage

Pianist Brad Mehldau initially made his mark with saxophonist Joshua Redman’s quartet. But his voice found its most potent expression on a series of trio records he recorded with drummer Jorge Rossy and bassist Larry Grenadier. The “Art Of The Trio” albums helped establish Mehldau as “the most highly acclaimed jazz artist to have emerged in the last decade” (JazzTimes). More recently, Mehldau has shifted to solo piano performances: his 2004 release Live In Tokyo features songs by Thelonious Monk, Nick Drake and Radiohead. Jason Moran and Eric Lewis open this all piano evening.

Listen to Brad Mehidau (quicktime)
Listen to Jason Moran's Jump Up (mp3)

Date: Friday, August 5th
Time: 7:00pm

Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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Plastilina Mosh at Celebrate Brooklyn

Its an all out celebration of modern latin music tonight at Celebrate Brooklyn. Plastilina Mosh play a combo of disco/funk/new wave/sleeze, Kinky play a "hodgepodge of electro-gauze, fuzz guitars, Latin beats, and sweetheart tunes that Shakira would order her bodyguards to kill for," and JD Natsha rounds it out with her Cuban rock. Listen to Plastilina Mosh' Boombox Baby (real audio).

Date: Friday, August 5th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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August 06, 2005

Coheed and Cambria at Summerstage

Coheed And Cambria exists in between the lines defined by music critics and record company publicists. On the one hand, the band has the melodic punk-pop sound known as “emo.” On the other, there’s a strong element of heavy metal in their sound. Tonight they are joined at Summerstage by Aterciopelados and Bebe

Listen to Coheed and Cambria's Devil in Jersey City (mp3)
Watch the video for Bebe's "Malo" (quicktime)

Date: Saturday, August 6th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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The Salsa Machine at Hudson River Music Fest.

A couple friends of mine used to have contests to see who could think of the the best emo band names. The Salsa Machine would make a horrible emo band, but sounds like a great name for a band that, "writes songs using essential elements from the Golden Age of Salsa, respecting traditional styles while embracing the concept of artistic exploration that once gave Salsa its strength. Oweing its chemistry to 14 years of performing experience, each of its nine members contributes a unique musical voice working to develop an original alternative to the widely heard watered down Salsa of the commercial airwaves." [swiped from Bio Ritmo]

Date: August 6th
Time: 5 to 7pm
Venue: Haverstraw Ferry Landing on the Hudson River
Door: FREE

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Kasey Chambers at Celebrate Brooklyn

\
Australian songstress Kasey Chambers channels my inner teenage girl. She conjures up memories of Jill Sobule, Juliana Hatfield, and Rosie Thomas with here acoustic melodies and lighter take on rock. She is joined tonight by The Greencards who seem to play both classic bluegrass as well as acoustic folk but never in the same song. Definitely the cheap date pick of the week.

Listen to Kasey Chambers' Like a River
Listen to The Greencards' Life's a Freeway
SPECIAL: Listen to Rosie Thomas' I Play Music (just b/c she's amazing)

Date: Saturday, August 6th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 Suggested)

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August 07, 2005

Pull up the People, Pull up the Poor

28 year old Sri Lanken MIA combined third world revolutionary lyrics with a feel good mix of mash-up, baile funk, garage, and hip hop. Her lives shows are constantly high energy and a good time. Diplo is supposed to join in the fun today but - being that he bailed on both of his last SOB's performances with her as well as his Rothko aftershow - we are bitter and have little faith. DJ Rekha (Mutiny Sounds), however, will be in the house. The hipsters will be lined up around the block for this one so get there early and save me a spot on line!

Listen to MIA's Bucky Done Gun (realaudio)
Listen to Diplo's Piddle Le He He (mp3)

SPECIAL: Check out MIA's Online Piracy Funds Terrorism to download remixes and get source files to create your own

Date: Sunday, August 7th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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Me Tarzan, You Mocean Worker

This is it, the final Celebrate Brooklyn event of the summer [tear]. Tonight the 1932 classic Tarzan the Ape Man gets an updated score from Mocean Worker who creates a sort of space-jazz-funk sound. Opening the night is Joan Wasser's Joan as Police Woman.

Listen to Mocean Worker's Right Now
Listen to Joan as Police Woman's Game of Life

Date: Sunday, August 7th
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Prospect Park Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free ($3 suggested)

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August 09, 2005

You'd Be Nuts To Miss 'em

Tonight come check out one of the CityParks Concerts in Highbridge Park. The Beatnuts are going to rock the...park. One of the relatively few producing crews to make the successful transition to performance, Latin underground group The Beatnuts worked on tracks by the Jungle Brothers, Monie Love, Cypress Hill, Naughty By Nature, de Lench Mob and Pete Nice before releasing their own albums in the early 90s.

Date: Tuesday, August 9th
Time: 7:00 pm
Venue: Highbridge Park, 173rd Street & Amsterdam Avenue
Cost: Free

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Free Classical Music in Central Park

You won't believe it, but there's free classical music in Central Park tonight! Come celebrate the Naumburg Orchestra's 100th Anniversary season of free concerts!  This is the fourth and final concert for 2005. Seating is provided, but if you want front row seats, plan to arrive early.

Naumburg Orchestra, Charles Olivieri-Munroe, conductor, John Edward Kelly, saxophone soloist perform:

Jacques Ibert - Divertissement
Philip Glass - Facades
Jacques Ibert - Concertino da Camera
Karel Husa - Elegy and Rondeau
Antonín Dvorák - Czech Suite in D major Op. 39

Date: Tuesday, August 9th
Time: 7:30-10:00 pm
Venue: The Naumburg Bandshell and Mall Concert Ground is in the center of the Central Park, just south of the 72nd Street crosstown drive
Cost: Free

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August 10, 2005

Kurtis Blow in the Best Borough of New York City

Your excuse to take the 1 way on down to the end of the line and hop on the Staten Island Ferry: Kurtis Blow. He's playing in Staten Island tonight. Not familiar, but want to be? Kurtis Blow is one of the founding fathers of hip-hop. The Harlem-born Kurtis Walker was the first rap artist to sign with a major label, the first to undertake a national concert tour and the first to have a gold record—the immortal 1980 hit “The Breaks.” Kurtis Blow’s success proved that rap was not just a fluke: rap was here to stay. And in Staten Island you'll stay, blown away. (www.cityparksfoundation.org)

Date: August 10th
Time: 7:00 pm
Venue: Mahoney Park, Staten Island at the intersection of Beechwood Avenue, Crescent Avenue, Cleveland Street and Jersey Streets.
Cost: Free

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DeVotchKa at South Street Seaport

"DeVotchKa!" sounds like a nice thing to scream at someone during a game of tag. As for the band DeVotchKa they sound like "Eastern-bloc indie rock," which is also fun to say. With Clap Your Hands Say Yeah.

Date: Wednesday August 10th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 11, 2005

Lonnie Liston Smith / Eliane Elias

"Lonnie Liston Smith is one of contemporary music’s most versatile musicians. In a career spanning 25 years he’s been a featured sideman for some of jazz’s most illustrious leaders—Betty Carter, Art Blakey, and Miles Davis, among others. Influential to a generation of young performers, he’s acknowledged for his rhythmic urgency, harmonic acumen, and accomplished composing skills. Known for her distinctive musical style which blends her Brazilian roots with impressive jazz and classical skills, pianist, composer, and singer Eliane Elias has a distinguished history of collaboration and innovation, including work with luminaries such as Herbie Hancock and Gilberto Gil."

Date: Thursday, August 11th
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Venue: Metrotech, Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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The Last Poets & Friends

Into rap? And civil rights? Who isn't these days? Check out Marcus Garvey Park today for a nice CityParks Concert with the Last Poets and friends. Just to give you a heads up, the Last Poets were revolutionary rappers in the sixties who took issues facing African-Americans head on liked nobody else dared to. If nothing else, it'll be a learning experience, so, go ahead, become a friend of the Last Poets.

Date: Thursday, August 11
Time: 7-8:30 pm
Venue: Marcus Garvey Park, Harlem located at 124 Street and Mt. Morris Park West. Take the 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 trains to 125 Street, or take one of the following buses: Bx15, M1, M7, M60, M98 M100, M101.
Cost: Free

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Whodini at South Street Seaport

Standouts of the early-eighties New York rap scene, Whodini had the first rap video (for "Magic's Wand") and were the first rap group to use dancers on stage. Get your hip hop history tonight.

Date: Thursday August 11th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 12, 2005

Zon del Barrio at South Street Seaport

Playing dance style classic Afro-Boricua music from the barrios, Zon del Barrio blends classic latin dance and funk.

Date: Friday August 12th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 13, 2005

Yolanda Adams at Summerstage

One of the most popular singers in contemporary gospel, Yolanda Adams has never been afraid to embrace secular sounds and fashions. Since her debut album in 1988, she’s crafted a style that incorporates up-to-the-minute R&B even as it touches on gospel traditions. Tonight she is joined by The A.R.C. Gospel Choir and hip-hop/classical hybrid of Nuttin' But Strings.

Date: Saturday, August 13th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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August 14, 2005

Barrington Levy

For twenty-five years, singer Barrington Levy has enlivened the world of reggae, his distinctive vocal style bringing smooth romance to the dance floor. Just a teenager when he became a star in his native Jamaica, he teamed up with renowned instrumentalists like Roots Radics and Sly and Robbie, helping to create the sound known as dancehall. Expect to hear classic songs like “Under Mi Sensi” and “Shine Eye Girl” tonight. Levy is joined by Japanese ska veterans Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra and Basement Bhangra's DJ Eddie Stats.

Date: Sunday, August 14th
Time: 3:00pm
Venue: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
Cost: Free

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August 15, 2005

Chaka Khan. Free. That's all you need to know.

You're in luck because tonight WBLS presents a living legend free and just for you. As part of the 23rd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Concert Series, Chaka Khan will rock every house surrounding Wingate Park with special guest the Brothers Johnson. She knows you've been waiting for this moment, and she feels for you. Seriously. If you're feeling like every woman (which may or may not apply to you--but be honest with yourself), come on down to Wingate Field and experience Chaka. We know you khan do it.
(www.brooklynconcerts.com)

Date: Monday, August 15th
Time: 7:30 pm
Venue: Wingate Field, Brooklyn. Located between Winthrop and Kingston avenues; across from Kings County Hospital
Cost: Free.

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August 16, 2005

Eisley at the Bowery

You like marvelous things...and probably love Marvelous Things. That's right, the DuPree gang (plus one Wilson, random?) is coming to town tonight, and they're playing free just for you. You'll be swept away by their dream-like melodies and impressed at how darn cute they are. Get down with Eisley at the Bowery tonight.

Date: Tuesday, August 16
Time: Doors open at 7 pm, show starts at 8 pm
Venue: Bowery Ballroom located at 6 Delancey St.
Cost: Free

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August 17, 2005

Chuck Prophet and Teddy Thompson

Chuck Prophet's songs are works of rock n’ roll wonder that allow soul, rock, pop, funk, blues and hip-hop to intermingle, remarkably, without shedding their distinct bite or identity. Something for everyone. With Teddy Thompson.

Date: Wednesday August 17th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 18, 2005

Ray, Goodman, and Brown

Ray, Goodman, and Brown were part of the crop of soul music groups that gained popularity the late 60s and early 70s. While many groups of that era had more successful recording careers, RG&B (as real fans say) stand out for their live show. That's your cue.

Date: Thursday August 18th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 19, 2005

Lookin' at the Goodies

Ciara will perform early this morning for Good Morning America. Come out and see if she's got more than just "Goodies." Performance is 7-9 but we suggest you get their early.

Date: Friday, August 19th
Time: 7:00am - 9:00am
Venue: Bryant Park, Upper Terrace (42nd and 5th)
Cost: Free

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Tarantula AD and Hockey Night

Prefix calls Tarantula AD "Not exactly Phillip Glass, but something Phillip Glass would yearn for if he idolized the Decemberists’ mariner style of songwriting and Iggy Pop’s punk sensibilities." I'm not sure if I know what that means. Find out tonight at South Street Seaport. With Hockey Night.

Date: Friday August 19th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 20, 2005

East River Music Project

The East River Music Project's final show for the 2005 summer season brings us four artists with a penchant for experimentation and sonic exploration. Akron/Family draw from parallel strands in American music: the deep-rooted pastoral and the dynamically chaotic. David Grubbs, who has collaborated with everyone from novelist Rick Moody to jazz saxophonist Mats Gustafson, brings a solo set of his literate, folk-infused songs. Wooden Wand and the Vanishing Voice, fresh off a tour with Castanets, explore the limits of traditional musical genres. And the mysterious Mountains of Mattalama have, we're told, a heavy psych-rock sound. Please join us as we send off summer '05 in style.

Date: Saturday, August 20th
Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Venue: East River Bandshell (click for directions)
Cost: Free

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August 24, 2005

The Double

"With a hypnotic wash of feedback drenched guitars, keyboards, and looped synth percussion, The Double find their way to pop perfection. Catch this performance of one of New York's most innovative new bands." (swiped from seaportmusicfestival.com)

Date: Wednesday August 24th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 25, 2005

The Sugar Hill Gang...

Doesn't need much of an introduction. And you don't need much of an excuse to see them tonight, for free.

Date: Thursday August 25th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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August 26, 2005

Ted Leo and the Pharmacists & Tigers and Monkeys

How about an extra-long Seaport concert series grand finale with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists And Tigers and Monkeys.

Date: Friday August 26th
Time: 7pm
Venue: South Street Seaport
Cost: Free

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Angelique Kidjo Concert

Benin-born, Paris-based “African funk diva of world music," Angelique Kidjo singing a blend of Benin indigenous music and influences from samba, zouk, American R&B, jazz, and Caribbean pop, has pioneered a “music-without- borders” style that brings audiences to their feet to cheer and dance. She has collaborated with major international artists throughout her career, including Gilberto Gil and Santana. Part of the "Out of Doors" festival.

Date: Friday, August 26th
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: Lincoln Center, outdoors (132 W 65th St)
Cost: Free

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August 28, 2005

Blues and BBQ

Two things I could not like more. They tell me it is impossible to reproduce the taste of authentic BBQ in a NYC kitchen due to the health regulations. And while some come close (my personal favorite is Dinosaur BBQ but thats another conversation) nothing really matches. So when someone throws a local outdoor feast-ival, I am totally there. This afternoon, the local restaurants sell their specialties while bands perform a blues backdrop. There will even be fireworks near the end! A good way to enjoy the lazy days of summer.

Date: Sunday, August 28th
Time: 2:00pm - 9:00pm
Venue: Pier 54 (14th street and hudson river)
Cost: Free

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August 29, 2005

Avril Lavigne in Bryant Park

Get up early with the tourists and watch Avril Lavigne perform in Bryant park for Good Morning America. Performance is 7-9 but we suggest you get their early.

Date: Friday, August 26th
Time: 7:00am - 9:00am
Venue: Bryant Park, Upper Terrace (42nd and 5th)
Cost: Free

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September 02, 2005

Pratt to School

A little back to school (?) concert at Pratt tonight features Todd P favorites Japanther plus Aa, Matt and Kim, and Ghost Stories. I am not sure if anyone can get on the Pratt lawn but it may be worth a shot.

Date: Thursday, September 2nd
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Pratt Lawn, Brooklyn
Cost: Free

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September 04, 2005

Free The Glass! At Shout!

The Glass is Dominique from Plant's new live bank. While I have not seen them, their tracks sound crazy good (Hella good if you are from New England). Its kind of Depeche Mode, kind of clash, and kind of um... stipped down Broken Social Scene? Just check them out tonight and you will see what I mean. This is the Shout party so their resident DJs will be in the house as well. Half priced drinks from 10 - 12.

Listen to "fourteen again" by The Glass (mp3)
Listen to "Same Thing" by The Glass (mp3)

Date: Sunday, September 4th
Time: 10:00pm
Venue: Bar 13 (13th and University)
Cost: Free

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September 06, 2005

As if the Apple store isn't stressful enough already...

If you're like me, you avoid the Apple store at all costs. (Unless it's to ask the "geniuses" what the heck is wrong with your iPod.) Today might be an exception. Head to the Apple store in SoHo for an in store performance by Ben Folds, of Ben Folds Five and Songs for Silverman fame.

Date: Tuesday, September 6
Time: 7 p.m
Venue: Apple store, SoHo, 103 Prince Street
Cost: Free

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September 11, 2005

The September Concerts

Being that today is September 11th. I tried to find some sort of graphic on the web to put up that I felt was a appropriate signifier of both a memorial for those lost and an honorary symbol for those that stepped up. Unfortunatelly, all I found were either images of terror, George Bush with horns drawn on his head, or corney eagles and flags (and lots of propaganda to boot). The people over at September Concerts seem to be much better at this memorial thing then I am. Since 2002, they have been organizing "public and private expression and the sharing of our emotions through music" for today. There are over 600 musicians playing over 117 private and 6 public venues throughout the city. The list is too long to put here but make sure you check the website out for more info.

Date: Sunday, September 11th
Time: 12:00pm - 7:00pm
Locations: Various
Cost: Free for public events

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Team Spider invades Thompkins Square Park

(click to enlarge)

Just in time to prove that summer will never end, Team Spider bring an all out political punk, ska core, and art extravaganza to Thompkins Square. No better way to spend your post-brunk Sunday.

Date: Sunday, September 11th
Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Venue: Thompkins Square Park
Cost: Free

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September 14, 2005

Dub in the Daytime

Its great when CMJ comes to town, there are always a ton of shows some of which are free! On that note, try to sneak out for a long lunch at work today and head over to Cake Shop for the Roir party featuring Dub Trio, Badawi w/ Honeychild, Dufus, Hopewell and Dr. Israel w/ Dreadtone Int'l. I recommend you don't go too crazy on the $1 Rheingold though, your boss my get suspicious!

Date: Wednesday, September 14th
Time: 12:30pm - 6pm
Venue: Cake Shop, 152 Ludlow
Cost: Free

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September 15, 2005

Suffrajett and Stiffed

Giant Step has put together a bit of a dance rock showcase this time around with Suffrajett and Stiffed. I'm not familiar with either band but it is rare that the Giant Step crew ever lead me astray so if you are looking to hear something new then this might be a good bet. Free Rheingold from 6-8. Artist bio's after the fold.

Date: Thursday, September 15th
Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Venue: SOB's (204 Varick Street at Houston)
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

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September 16, 2005

DIW Magazine CMJ Party

(click to enlarge)

Justin at New Release was right on point about DIW Magazine's party tonight... "I don’t think I’ve seen a better line up for a CMJ show this week." Kudu and The Glass along are reason to step out and watch them make some of the best live dance music floating around NYC right now. The rest of the sounds will round out the evening with a little bit of rock, a little bit of laptop, in a little bitty space. But you probably shouldn't go as Mo Pitkins only fits about 150 people and if you show up there will be no room for me. Why am I even telling you about this then? Because I like you THAT MUCH.

Date: Friday, September 16th
Time: 10:00pm - 4:00am
Venue: Mo Pitkins (34 Ave A btw 2nd and 3rd)
Cost: Free

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September 18, 2005

Brooklyn Jazz Series Kickoff

Its an all out Jazzfest in Brooklyn today. “We’re excited to bring some of Brooklyn’s best jazz musicians, Marcus Strickland and Rudresh Mahanthappa and Mark Turner, together under one roof, where jazz lovers can listen to the soulful tunes and musicians can jam together." This event is free but is also a fundraiser for the red cross.

Date: Sunday, September 18th
Time: 12:00pm
Location: 66 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free (but please donate)

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September 24, 2005

The Sound of Almost Something

Each Saturday night during the course of Flux Factory's Almost Something exhibition, they will be presenting musicians and sound artists whose work is better suited to be performed in front of a live audience than prerecorded. Tonight, the first night, features The Barker Trio and the Moritz, McLellan, Wooley Trio both playing some sort of spontaneous, improvised sounds. More on the bands after the fold.

Date: Saturday, September 24th
Time: 8:30pm
Location: Flux Factory (38-38 43rd Street, LIC)
New York City, New York 11101
Cost: Free

Click for More Info

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September 25, 2005

Rock n Soul Fest

Magnetic Fields is sending summer off with a bang a la their 2nd annual Rock 'n' Soul Festival. Their outdoor stage will be graced with the likes of The Ponys, The Hong Kong, The Soul Shakers, Detachment Kit, The Dansettes, and Might Fine. And after the outdoors sounds end at 6pm, the party continues indoors with Les Sans Culottes and DJ Action.

Date: Sunday, September 25th
Time: 11:00am
Location: Magnetic Fields (97 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
Cost: Free

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September 26, 2005

Free Rainer Maria

In one of the coolest band moves ever, Rainer Maria has rented out all of Arlene's Grocery tonight to play a free all ages live show. There is no cover, and no opening act. Early arrival is suggested.

Hear Burn from Rainer Maria's upcoming album (mp3)

Date: Monday, September 26th
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Arlene's Grocery (95 Stanton St.)
Cost: Free

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September 28, 2005

Apple store rocks

Legendary rock photographer Henry Diltz will present his iconic images, and Grammy Award–winning musicians Jessie Harris and America's Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell will perform live.

Date: Wednesday, September 28
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Apple store, SoHo
Cost: Free

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Annie loves the Delancey

(click to enlarge)

Internation Pop flavor of the week Annie has been making her round in NYC for the past few weeks but this is the first chance to see her live for free. Here electro-rock-bubble gum thing is damn infectious and I am really supposed to hate her but it SO reminds me of the sixteen year old girl that I once was. Guilty pleasure for sure. Also, Elkland is on the bill who are awesome and have been MIA from our website for a while. Oh yeah, and swag, and go go dancers, and free vodka from 9-10.

Date: Wednesday, September 28th
Time: 8:00pm
Location: The Delancey (168 Delancey at Clinton)
Cost: Free with RSVP

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September 29, 2005

Chin Chin, Baby

This is the last night of Chin Chin's residency at Pianos so if you've slept on this one, now is the time to go. Its kind of like an 80's (in a good way) dance vibe thing with percussion a la Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra. If you have never seen them then this is where its at tonight. Come early (8pm) for VonVonVon and stay late for Chin Chin member Lil' Shalimar's Wild Out on the turntables.

Listen to Chin Chin's Miami (mp3)

Date: Thursday, September 29th
Time: 9:00pm
Location: Pianos, upstairs (158 Ludlow at Stanton)
Cost: Free

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September 30, 2005

Pink

Free concerts are few and far between after the summer months (yeah, I said it... it's fall) - especially outdoor ones. So its a special treat to see Jersey's finest, Pink, perform today at the Seaport to raise breast cancer awareness. With Butch Walker & DJ Laurent Vacher.

Date: Friday, September 30th
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: South Street Seaport (Fulton Street and Water Street)
Cost: Free

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October 01, 2005

A lil Classical?

Usually we tend to write about hip hop-hipster rock-"cool kid" music, so here is something a lil different for you to check out... Today check out a concert featuring Nina Maria Lee on cello Asmira Woodward-Page on violin at Flux Factory.

"Concert starts at 9pm sharp, no entry after start of the concert.

* Bach, Sarabande (solo cello suite)
* Anonymous, 3 Sanskrit Mantras to the Goddess for Enlightenment (violin and voice)
* Ravel, Duo for violin and cello

An evening of classical music for violin and cello, with a live video projection of closeups of the musician's hands."

Date: Satuday, October 21st
Time: 8:30pm
Venue: Flux Factory (38-38 43rd Street, LIC)
Cost: Free

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October 02, 2005

Kelly Slusher

"Kelly Slusher plays music to heal the hearts of the broken and soothe the souls of the lonely. She stands somewhere in between the hauntingly beautiful voice of Julee Cruise and the influential, early indie pop groups such as The Clean, The Go-Betweens and The Vaselines."

Hear Kelly Slusher's All Through the Day (mp3)

Date: Sunday, October 2nd
Time: 8:00pm
Location: The Living Room (154 Ludlow Street)
Cost: Free

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October 05, 2005

More Great Things from Slusherland

"Kelly Slusher plays music to heal the hearts of the broken and soothe the souls of the lonely. She stands somewhere in between the hauntingly beautiful voice of Julee Cruise and the influential, early indie pop groups such as The Clean, The Go-Betweens and The Vaselines." Tonight is another chance to catch the local riser in an intimate setting for free.

Hear Kelly Slusher's All Through the Day (mp3)

Date: Wednesday, October 5nd
Time: 8:00pm
Location: The Lucky Cat (245 Grand Street, Williamsburg)
Cost: Free

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October 06, 2005

Take A Free Ticket

(click to enlarge)

Current TV is this new cable network sort of in the vein of Name Your Own Adventure, well at least in the sense that you are both viewer and producer. Anyway, what is actually of relevance here is that to drum up some viewers they are throwing a lil concert called Take Back Tv and giving away free tickets. Set to preform today at Rumsey Field are De La Soul, Fishbone, Slum Village, Simon Dawes, Malene Younglao, Rich Medina and Suffrajett.

Date: Thursday, October 6th
Time: 5pm
Venue: Central Park, Rumsey Playfield at 69th
Cost: Free, but you must sign up for a ticket

Posted by Lindsay at 05:00 PM | TrackBack | Email to a friend