Category Archives: SHOW “G”-Views

Duane Betts ignites and brings an evolution to the Southern rock tradition. With a fiery legacy forged by his father, the legendary Dickey Betts, the second-generation musician infuses it with his own soul-stirring blend of blues, raw passion, and six-string mastery. Backed by his band, Palmetto Motel, Betts delivers a dynamic live show filled with searing guitar solos, heartfelt storytelling, and a mix of classic influences with fresh energy. Fans can expect a blend of roots rock, blues, and some improvisational jamming, creating an electrifying yet deeply authentic experience. With top-tier musicianship, a connection to rock ‘n’ roll history, and the desire to make every performance a true experience, a Palmetto Motel show is an unforgettable journey that no music lover should miss. Palmetto Motel is Johnny Stachela (guitar, vocals), Brother to the proGram Pedro Arevalo (bass, vocals), Vincent Fossett Jr. (drums), and Max Butler (B-3 organ). On the Millennium Stage, September 3rd.

Set list:

Savannah’s Dream
Colors Fade
Blue Sky
Taking Time
Rivers Run
For What it’s Worth
Impossible Germany
Waiting on a Song

One of my favorite festivals to catch online – one day I’ll make the physical journey. Here’s a sampling of all I saw online – the entire schedule of what went down can be found here.

CHRIS POTTER TRIO Featuring Matt Brewer and Kendrick Scott

Hiromi’s Sonicwonder

John Pizzarelli

Kenny Barron Voices featuring Tyreek McDole

Omar Sosa Quarteto Americanos

Branford Marsalis Quartet

Connie Han Trio

Chucho Valdés & Paquito D’Rivera Reunion Sextet

John Scofield Quartet featuring Vicente Archer, Bill Stewart and Nicholas Payton

Orquesta el Macabeo is a Puerto Rican “salsa gorda” (hard salsa) group that has been an innovative and unique presence on the Puerto Rican music scene for the last 15 years. Seeing the band live in concert is a one-off experience. Macabeo’s strong commitment to its band identity, in conjunction with its interaction with the public, makes each audience member feel like a part of the show. The band’s lyrics about everyday life, plus its varied rhythms, have made it an international conqueror, enlarging “la familia macabiónica” (the macabionic family) everywhere like never before. During its decade and a half as a band, Orquesta el Macabeo has released four studio albums, one live double album, several EPs, singles, and compilations in different physical and digital formats. In addition to its original compositions, the band has created soundtracks for films, including La Útima Gira (The Last Tour), based on the life of Puerto Rican singer Daniel Santos. What distinguishes Orquesta el Macabeo amongst today’s salsa groups is the harmony and consistency that exists among the members. As the band puts it, “We have retained almost the exact same membership over the years. We love and are touched by our blood relations, but the friendships that become our chosen family are carried in the heart, and the same is transmitted to our audience.” They put on a great show 7/16 on the Millennium Stage.

Acclaimed composer and trumpeter Sarah Wilson draws inspiration from visual art, brass bands and the joy of music on her spirited new album Incandescence. Out July 18, 2025 via Brass Tonic Records, the album features Wilson’s brass focused sextet Brass Tonic on an exuberant set sparked by the work of Austrian painter Thomas Reinhold. Out July 18, 2025 via Wilson’s own Brass Tonic Records and co-produced by Wilson and Grammy Award-winning producer Hans Wendl, Incandescence was commissioned by InterMusic SF’s Musical Grant Program. It draws equal inspiration from Reinhold’s bold, multi-hued abstracts and from the street-level, community-spirited traditions of brass band, marching and New Orleans parade music. In Brass Tonic, Wilson combines an all-woman horn frontline – herself, alto saxophonist Kasey Knudsen, and trombonist Mara Fox – with the buoyant rhythm section of guitarist John Schott, bassist Lisa Mezzacappa, and, for this recording, drummers Jon Arkin and Tim Bulkley.

Nominated for Best Contemporary Instrumental album at the 2024 Grammy Awards®, House of Waters is at the forefront of musical innovation. Its intricate compositions & electrifying live performances create an unforgettable experience, guiding listeners into a realm of limitless musical exploration. With its GroundUP Music recording, On Becoming, friend of the proGram Max ZT and Moto Fukushima are joined by first-call accompanists: drummer Antonio Sanchez, guitarist Mike Stern, and vocalist Priya Darshini. “There are no musical boundaries,” said hammered dulcimer virtuoso Max ZT, “We incorporate elements of world, jazz, indie rock, and classical music creating our own unique sound.” Moto Fukushima added, “We strive for openness married to accessibility.” House of Waters has scored an Emmy®-winning documentary (ESPN) and recently rescored three French Dadaist-Era silent films in partnership with Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. The band has received the South Arts Jazz Road Grant and has an extensive touring history around the world with label mates, Snarky Puppy. They graced the Millennium Stage on the 5th of July to open minds and ears to who and what they are. Watch it here.

Nadine El Roubi, a Sudanese American artist known for her neo-soul and hip-hop fusion, has significantly contributed to the Afro-Arab music scene. Her music delves into themes of self-love, spirituality, & empowerment, reflecting her diverse heritage & experiences. Nadine El Roubi made her mark in 2020 with her explosive rap song “#FEMALE,” a bold & provocative statement. Though she had introduced herself with the introspective singer-songwriter anthem Throne two years earlier, “#FEMALE” cemented her ability to command attention with sharp lyricism & fearless storytelling. Over the past 4 years, her steadily growing body of work has amassed millions of streams, drawing listeners into her unique blend of neo-soul & hip hop. Her breakout single “Honey Butter,” the lead track from her 2022 EP ‘Triplicity’, captivated audiences with its smooth, sultry sound, while “CALM DOWN,” the lead single from her 2024 mixtape Freestyles, Pt. 2: A Mixtape!, further demonstrated her versatility as both a rapper & vocalist. Both tracks have gained immense popularity on streaming platforms & social media, reinforcing her reputation as an artist capable of delivering both intricate bars & soulful melodies. With co-signs from industry heavyweights like SZA, A Tribe Called Quest’s Jarobi White, and recognition from Rolling Stone, Nadine El Roubi is rapidly emerging as a breakthrough artist, one poised to leave a lasting impact on both the SWANA region (Southwest Asia & North Africa) and the global music scene.

The beGinning part of this week’s program got to the point.

Trailer Park Romance- Robert Deitch Ft. Emilee Johnson
Ring Of Fire- Charley Pride
The Ticket- Ernie Palmer
–
Hot Together- Lord Bolt
Sweet Thang- The Rev Douglas
Say You Wanna Dance- Brad Guitar Wilson
Walk Away- Canyon Lights (Live)
Mr. Moto- Paul Johnson & The Packards (Live at the Lighthouse 1995)
Peter Gunn/Baby Elephant Walk- The Chantays (Live at the Lighthouse 1995)
–
Dark Sleeper- The Dreadnoughts
The I’m Gonna Fight Jim’s Girlfriend Polka- The Dreadnoughts
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700 Miles- Skullcap Ft. Anthony Pirog and Janel Leppin
Rt 40- Skullcap Ft. Anthony Pirog and Janel Leppin

I had the pleasure and honor of attending a memorial concert and outstanding performances that moved me, once aGain. SciArts Services always has the best talent to showcase in Indian sonic and spiritual adventurous, just as the moments in life go forward, so to do we as a united people sharing in each other’s spaces with love, dignity and respect.

Da Truth Brass Band performed live at the 2025 Congo Square Rhythms Festival! We’re video streaming live from the Treme Stage all day today. I attended live via WWOZ. What a fin time as expected.

Sunday, March 30, 2025 – 11:00am to 7:30pm
Armstrong Park (OUTDOORS)
901 North Rampart Street
New Orleans, LA 70116

Sunday, March 30 was streamed live from Congo Square Rhythms Festival!

SCHEDULE (subject to change):

11am-12:15pm Alicia Renee aka “Blue Eyes”
12:30-2pm Da Truth Brass Band
2:15-3:30pm Zena Moses & Rue Fiya’s Allstars
3:45-4:45pm NOLA Resistance
5-6pm Gladney
6:15-7:30pm Original Pinettes Brass Band

This year’s American Songbook (at the Lincoln Center) celebrates the voices of women and nonbinary performers who have not only shaped the landscape of music, but have also driven important conversations on gender, identity, and empowerment. Galvanized by a Sex Pistols concert, the UK-born Marion Elliot adapted the sobriquet Poly Styrene, formed a band and then promptly changed the history of rock by recording the seminal punk anthem Oh Bondage! Up Yours! Poly Styrene would only release one album in the 1970s, but Germ Free Adolescents would prove to be one of the most influential LPs of its era. For this evening of music by and inspired by Poly Styrene and her band X-Ray Spex, the American Songbook band—featuring Keyanna Hutchinson (guitar), Barbara Duncan (percussion), Evan Lawrence (bass), and Elenna Canlas (keyboards and vocals)—will be joined by an array of musical luminaries, all paying their respects to a true punk pioneer. Watch it all HERE!!

Featured Artists

Host: LaRonda Davis

Vocalists:
Cleo Reed
Dunia Best
Felice Rosser
Honeychild Coleman
Princess Nokia
Lisa McQuade
Militia Vox
Rachel Dissident
Rose Blood
Shara Lunon

The 3D printed Renaissance 17 (R17), invented and patented by Grammy-nominated New England Conservatory faculty member Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol, marks a revolutionary step in instrument making. The 3D version of instrument will be premiered in a concert featuring Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol and the Dunya Ensemble at 7:30 ET on Wednesday, March 26 at NEC’s Jordan Hall.

A musical journey, with Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol and the DÜNYA ensemble, from classical Ottoman/Turkish music to original concert and jazz pieces inspired by Turkish music.

Dünya Ensemble

Beth Bahia Cohen, rebab, bowed tanbur, violin
Süeda Çatakoğlu, voice, piano, percussion
Vladyslav Dovhan, alto saxophone
Heiraza, voice, percussion
James Heazlewood-Dale, bass
George Lernis, drums, percussion, voice
Dan Meyers, sackbut, percussion, voice
Tareq Rantisi, percussion, voice
Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol, oud, electric oud, Renaissance 17, piano, duduk, ney, voice
Mark Tipton, trumpet, flugelhorn
Alice Xu, piano

Program:

I. Early Ottoman Music
II. Classical Turkish Music
III. Concert Music
IV. Sacred Music
V. Jazz and Pop

GRAMMY nominee Ariacne Trujillo and her orchestra celebrate her latest album release, Legacy. Ariacne is one of the most creative pianists, vocalists, composers, and arrangers on the New York music scene. At the young age of 18, she was a lead singer and pianist at the legendary Cabaret Tropicana; and since then, she has built an astonishing career sharing the stage with legends Paul Simon, Paquito D. Rivera, Wynton Marsalis, and countless more. With her virtuosity on the piano, her powerful and flexible voice, originality of her compositions, and musical influence from her native Havana, Cuba, she makes her mark in Afro-Cuban Latin jazz—exuding the perfect balance of elegance and intensity. Her and her orchestra played a wonderul evening at the Lincoln Center.

Senior Recital: SGO, horn
Date:
Saturday, March 15, 2025

Time:
7:30 pm EDT

Location:
Warner Concert Hall
77 W. College St.
Oberlin, OH 44074

_______________________________________________________________________________
Program:

Hermann Neuling: Bagatelle

Antonio Rosetti: Concerto for Two Horns in E-flat Major

Florence Price/ arr. Elaine Fine: Adoration (1951)

Consuelo Velázquez/ arr. Arturo Pantaleon & Gabriel Soto: Bésame mucho

Traditional Australian/ arr. Joshua Davis: Waltzing Matilda

Joshua Davis/ Yuniet Lombida: Rondo alla Mambo (2020)

From the melting pot of cultures that blend in the Washington, D.C. area emerges a fusion of musical genres that is shaking dance floors and captivating music lovers’ attention. It is known as the Bongo District. Its mix of reggae, funk, and ska, spiced up with a Latin flavor, has earned the group local recognition, with the group becoming one of D.C.’s most sought-after bands. It plays as a regular act in top venues such as The Bullpen and the Bluebeat Concert Series. Bongo District has also opened for established South American artists Los Cafres, Los Rabanes, and Desorden Publico, among others. The group’s unique blend of popular covers and original music makes their live act appealing to audiences of all ages, taking them on a trip through passages of relaxing reggae music to full blown stadium-chant percussive parties. With a three-hour-plus repertoire under their belt, Bongo District is able to adapt to any size and style of venue without losing the enthusiasm that characterizes their live show. Be it an outdoor stage, live venue, or a small local business, entertainment is guaranteed. “El Distrito,” as they like to call their shows, is a judgement-free zone where they encourage audiences to express themselves while enjoying music in communion. Bongo District is currently recording their first original EP, which promises to evolve around the all-inclusive welcoming message they transmit at every one of their performances: “Dear fellow music fans, thank you for joining and enjoying this experience with us, you are now part of the District…”

This is the one District where you are sure to find all your musical needs fulfilled. They took to the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center on March 14th to show it all off.

On March 12th, The Jazz Foundation of America presented: Sweetie Pies of New Orleans, Live at Snug Harbor

Personel:

-Becky Lynn Blanca: vocals, banjo uke, washboard
-Russell Lee Welch III : Guitar
-Jason Jurzak: Sousaphone /Bass, vocals
-Matt Rhody: Fiddle
-Mike Voelker: Washboard

Millennium Stage

Chris Pierce is an Americana and folk singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, recently handpicked by Mr. Neil Young to be the special guest opener for his Neil Young Coastal Tour. His album ‘Let All Who Will’ was released in 2023, with critical acclaim from NPR, No Depression, American Songwriter, and more. He gained prominence with “We Can Always Come Back to This,” his hit cowrite that aired on three episodes of the NBC primetime series This Is Us and went on to #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart. Pierce has toured and performed on stage with Steve Earle, Allison Russell, B.B.King, Seal, Al Green, and Neil Young. Chris Peirce provided proof that there are still some left who’s words can travel well while we stand still, going both back & forth.

Ranky Tanky has achieved many firsts for South Carolina’s West African–rooted Gullah community since their formation, earning yet another milestone at the 2019 Grammy Awards® by taking home the Best Regional Roots Album prize for their sophomore release ‘Good Time’. The album, which also hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart, combines songs carried down through generations in the Sea Islands of the Southeastern United States with the band’s own original compositions in the Gullah tradition. In Ranky Tanky’s hands, this style of music has been described as “soulful honey to the ears” (NPR) while being covered by The New York Times, NPR’s Fresh Air, and The TODAY Show, who had the band on for a performance. Ranky Tanky (a Gullah phrase for “get funky”) are 5 lifelong friends from Charleston, South Carolina who have established themselves as passionate global ambassadors for their local culture and community, helping to faithfully preserve the traditions originated by African Americans in the coastal South during slavery that are kept alive through the present day. The band has been featured on NPR’s Fresh Air, The Today Show, PBS Newshour, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert #playathome. Ranky Tanky were honored to be featured artists in President Biden’s inauguration event, ‘We The People’. They were the subjects of a ten-page profile in Oxford American’s South Carolina music issue and were named 2020 Artist of The Year by the Charleston City Paper. They sure did give it to us all so good on March 8th at the Kennedy Center. You can watch the video of the entire event here and below click into Quentin’s name to hear my conversation with him a couple years back before a show here in Madison.

Quentin Baxter, drums and percussion
Kevin Hamilton, bass
Quiana Parler, vocalist
Clay Ross, guitar and vocals
Charlton Singleton, trumpet and vocals

Ezekiel’s Wheels Klezmer Band is one of the world’s preeminent klezmer ensembles. 2024–2025 season highlights include performing as soloists with Maestro Joshua Weilerstein and the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra (DK) in Abigale Reisman’s Gedanken for klezmer band and orchestra; StetlFest (CZ); and the Museum of Fine Arts Boston (USA).Their music has been featured on television in the Netherlands and Brazil, on the Boston Jewish Music Festival’s compilation album, and a feature length film, in addition to their eight albums. The Wheels have performed with Hankus Netsky, David Broza, Paula Cole, Jill Sobule, BETTY, and many more collaborators from the klezmer world and beyond. When they’re not playing klezmer, they can be found backing up such household names as Eminem, Hugh Jackman, Weird Al Yankovic, Amanda Palmer, and Chris Botti, and holding down the pit orchestras of musical theater shows across New England. Last night, they took to the Millennium Stage at The Kennedy Center and transformed the space into a vibrant landscape of Klezmer gold.

Live from Sung Harbor:

Boma Bango takes the hypnotic, reverb drenched, tremolo-ed electric guitar heavy music from the 1960s in the Congo and reimagines it as if it came out of some humid outdoor bar in Southwest Louisiana. Boma Bango formed after Daniel Coolik became infatuated with 1950s and 1960s Congolese Rumba. A music originally influenced by Cuban records from the 1930s and 40s and infused with melodies and instruments from the Congo. Boma Bango, by taking musical cues from Congolese luminaries as Franco Luambo & le TPOK Jazz, L’Orchestra African Fiesta with Docteur Nico and Tabu Ley Rochereau, and Le Grand Kallé et l’African Jazz, has strived to create their own kind of improvisational music based upon the sounds from this golden age. The band was started in 2018 by musical compatriots Daniel Coolik (electric guitar/electric mandolin), Trey Boudreaux (bass), Megan Constantin (vocals/percussion), Bill Smith (congas/marimba), and Glenn Fields (drums/percussion) – and is sometimes joined by Aurora Nealand (saxophones). They reinvent old songs and write new ones in Louisiana French just as the Congelse wrote songs in Lingala. In the same way jazz musicians took the Great American Songbook in the 1940s and 50s and now take from popular music, Boma Bango has reworked these beautiful and almost forgotten melodies to create an alluring, tropical, and exciting new sound.

Millennium Stage

This evening, Daymé Arocena, a Grammy®-nominated and Juno Award-winning Afro-Cuban singer who is known for her genre-defying creativity and deep connection to her Cuban heritage, rocked a sold out stage at the Kennedy Center. Her latest album, Alkemi (2024), follows the acclaimed Sonocardiograma (2019) and marks a bold evolution from her jazz roots, blending neo-soul, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and modern pop. In recognition of her work, she received a 2024 Latin Grammy® nomination for Song of the Year for “A Fuego Lento” featuring Vicente García.