Kate McDonnell takes chances with her music. She becomes extraordinarily vulnerable and makes some incredible songs. Kate and I talk about her journey in music. She's playing the CD release show for "Trapeze" at Caffe Lena on September 20th.

The latest album from Blonde Redhead is "Sit Down for Dinner." Amedeo Pace of the band talks with me about their music, about the band, and about ...dinner. Blonde Redhead will be at the Meadowlark Festival on September 15th.

Mary Gauthier is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her amazing "Drag Queens In Limousines" album. She's reissuing it on red vinyl, and she's coming to Caffe Lena on September 15th.

From music at Berklee, to living in upstate, the duo Honeysuckle make a lovely folk pop sound. Hear my recent chat with Holly McGarry about their latest two singles and more.

Meta Dia of Meta & the Cornerstones and I chatted about his passion - peace, love and harmony. And a lot more! We also talked a little about the concert and movie experience, Reggae Sunset at Music Haven on August 30.

KTG was one of the early DJ's of WEXT. She's been gone since 2017, but just this summer, we convinced her to come back and do a weekly show (Saturdays from 3-8p). This interview

We all know and love Music Haven for the Sunday night concerts that take us around the world "one concert at a time." Music Haven has shown movies on a big screen in the park before, but this year...

Peter Hughes of The Linda dropped by to talk with me about the highlights of the fall season at The Linda. Soon after we recorded, we announced the Live & Local at the Linda for October and November.

Misty Blues is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Fresh off their 25th anniversary cruise, Gina Coleman and the band will play the annual Blues BBQ at Music Haven on August 16th.

Becca Dira came to us as an intern with WMHT-TV production. She loves music! And she loves to talk about music. And she's turning those loves into a podcast called "SongTalk."

Come celebrate the Blues and WEXT's 17th birthday with Piedmont Bluz as part of Music Haven's annual Blues BBQ on August 16.

Canadian blues guitarist, Sue Foley has two new albums showcasing her rockin' blues, and her love for the acoustic guitar. See her at The Hangar on August 14.

Eliades Ochoa, a name fans of son cubano and the Buena Vista Social Club may recall is coming to Music Haven on August 11. Ahead of that, we chatted about his album, "Guajiro" and more.

Delfeayo Marsalis, brother to Wynton and Branford, took up trombone as it "was the instrument that was left" when part of the Marsalis family band. Well, that's not exactly true. We had a fun conversation about music and the trombone. See Delfeayo Marsalis at Music Haven on Monday, August 5 with the SCCC Faculty Jazz Combo.

Ken Briggs and the band Nite Train are keeping the memory of Thomasina Winslow alive. Join them for a benefit for a scholarship in her name, August 9 at NaNola.

AP Live Festival is in its second year showcasing young, up and coming Local 518 artists. Discover new music and new local artists on August 17.

I spoke with Colm Phelan of the Irish band Goitse. We learn what the name means. We learn how the band came up with the name, and we talk about the band coming to play America, and specifically at Music Haven on July 28.

The NYC 9-piece brass funk band specializes in Balkan tinged funk. Slavic Soul Party is heading to Music Haven for the July 21 concert, and we cannot wait!

The amazing Della Mae have had a long running association with Grey Fox Bluegrass. This year, they will be making their way through the whole festival as "artist in residence." This means, they could pop onto stages with some of your (and their) favorite musicians. Plus, they'll be doing their own sets as well. Grey Fox Bluegrass runs 7/17-21 on the Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, NY.

Marty Wendell started out learning how to play songs from the Johnny Cash album that his mom had purchased. The music he heard on the radio, and the artists from Sun Records were his inspirations and guides. And for the last 60 years, Marty has been delighting audiences wherever he goes with his kindness and amazing musicianship.

We cannot wait for Buckwheat Zydeco Jr with Ils Sont Partis to come play at Music Haven in Schenectady on July 14!

Jon Pousette-Dart has been making music since the 70's, a rich palette of sound from this singer-songwriter known for his classic folk rock sound. See him July 14 at Caffe Lena.

Very exciting that Mokoomba is returning to Music Haven for July 7th.

DJ Hollyw8d is all about More Music and Less Violence. He's partnered with some great folks and will present a day for Peace at Swinburne Park on Saturday, June 29. Music and BBQ event to follow the march and the rally.

This Saturday, don't miss the action on the flat track roller derby with the Albany All Stars! (6/22 at 7pm)

One of our favorite Local 518 bands has been promising a new album for some time. We've gotten singles and EPs, but a full length album is on its way - June 21, with the release show June 23 at The Hangar.

Rick at the Cock N Bull has developed relationships with so many amazing musicians. One of those is the band Time Sawyer. Sam Tayloe of the band and I had a talk about what they hope you get from coming to a show, and there is a show at the Cock N Bull on Monday, June 24.

Chris Murphy (Sloan) and Craig Northey (Odds) are two of the Trans-Canada Highwaymen. The band is coming to The Egg on June 15. As they say, playing at The Egg, "it's like starring in a Stanley Kubrick film."

My conversation with the amazing Chris Botti about his being inspired by Miles Davis and about his new album. Plus, he's coming to the Egg on June 14.

Sibling rockers Jocelyn & Chris are ready to take UPH in Saratoga by storm.

Music Haven Gears Up to Go Around the World in 62 Days34th Annual Series Set to Bring the World to the ParkMusic Haven Concert Series 2024Sundays at 7 p.m. / Special Events as notedJuly 7–Sept. 6

We talked with Nathaniel Gray about this year's festival and parade! Come join us in celebration of Pride!

Tony Trischka tells us all about how his new tribute album to Earl Scruggs came about. We also discuss his show at The Cock N Bull to celebrate the release of the album - on what would have been Earl's 100th birthday! June 6th - don't miss out!

Tom Rush has a new album, his first in five years. We talk about that album, and his upcoming two shows at Caffe Lena on May 31.

Carsie Blanton has been writing songs and performing for a couple decades. She has shifted from the standard singer-songwriter "love songs" type of songs to songs of protest. We talk about that, and her new album, "After the Revolution." See Carsie at The Linda on May 10.

May 11, the Wailin' Jennys come to the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Ruth Moody of the band talked with Chris about their origins, their music, new music, and her own solo album coming in May.

Kyle Price talks about the amazing 13th annual Caroga Lake Music Festival.

Chuck Lamb and Ria Curley, local musicians who tour the world in their various projects.

Art LaFleur releases a new single inspired by the fierceness with which Keri Alonzo approaches her battle with colon cancer.

Nova Scotia folk singer Dave Gunning has been listed along side Canadian folk legends. It seems to make him blush to hear, but when you listen, you’ll hear why it’s true.

Roberta Lea is headed to town. She will be at the Depot at Argyle Brewing in Cambridge on April 21.

Local 518 Michael Eck is not only an esteemed local musician, but he is also a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame voting member. We talk about the recently nominated artists ahead of his ballot needing to be in on April 15.

Leyla McCalla is coming to The Egg on April 13. The day before that, she is releasing her new album, "Sun Without the Heat." We talked a little about the album, the show, and her inspiration.

Talked with Carl Blackwood from the band Bendt. They're part of the April 5 edition of Live and Local. And they've been busy. They're making some new music for us all to rock to.

In addition to trombones, this summer SCCC invites musical theatre and trumpet students to participate in special, immersive summer institutes.

Local 518 rocker, Shane Guerrette releases a new single. More songs are coming later on, but we are happy to get this one to start.

St Paul and the Broken Bones dropped by to play a show at The Egg. Lead singer, Paul Janeway took a few moments out of the schedule to chat with us about his new solo record. No worries! The band is not breaking up.

Oobleck release "Down the Rabbit Hole" in April.

A chance to chat with Zan Strumfeld of Zan & the Winter Folk is always welcomed. If you love Carole King, don't miss this one.

Bryce from New American Cuisine talks about their new single, and the first Live and Local at The Linda.

Local 518 band Saucer is familiar, and yet new. We talk about their debut album, uncle Joe, music, influences, and more.

Asbury Park, NJ is home to Rachel Ana Dobken. Her new album comes in 2024. She talked about its genesis and her father and her work with Elliott Landy.

Reese talks about the great year he has experienced with his music and new shows coming.

Tony Moore is a musician, songwriter, radio presenter, concert promoter, venue operator. Tony is music personified. He was Iron Maiden's original keyboardist before going off to do his own prog-rock, and session work. He was a member of Cutting Crew in the 80's. Plus, as we learn, he played with Meat Loaf on tour. We learn about his newest projects, including working again with Steve Harris of Iron Maiden and British Lion.

Mick and Robbie of Modern English dropped by to talk about their new album, "1-2-3-4." It was recorded not too far from WEXT land. And of course, we discussed the impact of "I Melt With You," on their lives and on fans.

Hot off releasing two new singles, Wild Adriatic heads to Putnam Place on November 3.

Tom Rush returns to Proctor's Eighth Step, the legendary folk singer at the legendary Eighth Step, October 14.

Kaleidsoscape showcases the Local 518 with songs inspired by the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall created by the artists. I speak with Jessica Bowen who helped create the show.

Cassandra Kubinski has found a home in the Local 518 music scene, and has worked with studio producer Jim Mastrianni to create an album that is inherently Saratoga.

Mel & Rich from SIRSY sat down to chat with me about their fun summer tour. We touched on some highlights, we chatted about "Hell No!" And more.

Maria Muldaur was there when the folk revival was happening in the 1960s. She was part of some of the biggest bands of the mid to late 60s. In 1973, she released the album that would kick off her solo career - into orbit. She's coming to The Egg with a multi-media presentation called "Way Past Midnight."

Friday, September 8th, we'll be back at the Opalka Gallery for another Pop-Up Beer Garden. We love this event! This week, Zan & The Winter Folk will play with Amanda Case.

Sara Milonovich returns to Caffe Lena, a venue that is near and dear to her, on September 7th. And in this conversation, she discusses her latest album and reveals that she and the band Daisycutter are working on a new album. So, those going to the show will be treated to some new songs.

On the occasion of her single release, we spoke about the song and about her and Tom playing at Art in the Park on September 16th.

Super 400 plays the opening night of the 2023 Opalka Gallery Pop-Up Beer Garden series.

Raul Malo of the Mavericks has one of the best voices in rock music. So, why is it his new album is an instrumental album, and why doesn't he sing on it? Find out that, and more in this fun interview where I reveal I imagine I sing as well as Raul when in the shower. (I don't really, but I can pretend. Right?)

Peter Hughes unveiled the Fall Pass, your ticket to every show at The Linda this fall.

Lucy Kaplansky released her latest album about a year ago, and it is filled with songs that resonate and are timeless. She's coming to Caffe Lena on August 3.

Reed Foehl has been making music since he was very young. He's been dreaming of playing Caffe Lena since maybe he was 11. His debut is Sunday, July 30.

Talking with Jontavious Willis is always enlightening. He is a big proponent of the music he loves, and wants to keep the focus on Georgia abd its musical heritage.

Hear all about the Grey Fox experience from returning performer Sierra Hull.

Learn all about the 2023 Music Haven season.

Playin' With Fire Band have been a band for about 16 years. The line up has changed a bit, and so has their focus. They've been working on some great original music, and are releasing a few tracks. So, we had a chat.

Rob Beaulieu may have been around the Local 518 community for a few decades, but he continues to find great joy in making new music. See Rob and his band at The Hollow on June 23.

June 23-25 at Altamont Fairgrounds, everyone is excited for this year's Old Songs Festival!

Nathaniel Gray of Capital Pride walks us through the ins and outs of Pride Fest, and talks about the important services Pride Fest helps make possible.

Kyle Price spoke with Chris Wienk all about this year's exciting events that make up the Caroga Lake Music Festival.

Carl Dixon is the lead singer for the Who Tribute band known as Who Are You. See them at The Linda on May 20 (Saturday).

Buggy Jive sent in his song (and video) for "Don't Quit Your Day Job," and Tiny Desk took notice.

Thanks to a NYSCA grant, Saratoga Arts is well on their way to refurbishing their space to allow more creation to happen.

We caught up with Amy Alvey of Golden Shoals while the band was rehearsing in Baltimore. Amy and Mark (Kilianski) are headed to Argyle Brewing in Cambridge for a Wednesday evening show (4/26) as a duo.

Kate McDonnell chats about her European tour and her upcoming show at Argyle Brewing's The Depot.

Youth Squared is an organization helping young adults learn the ways they can effect change in the community. It's a favorite of mine.

Three of the team who are presenting a booth at Skidmore's Sustainable Fair on April 16th spoke with Chris about "invasive species," and what we need to know.

We learn all about how The Eddies process works, and we learn a few behind the scenes things from Jim and Kelly.

See Erin when she records her next album, and a YouTube comedy special on March 29th at the Funny Bone in Albany.

See Mark O'Connor with his Crossing Bridges tour at The Egg on March 11.

DJ Hollyw8d's debut single is out!

Darlingside has been one of our favorite bands since we first discovered their rich harmonies and incredibly deep songs. See Darlingside at the Egg on March 9th.

Josh Ritter is coming to The Egg on March 5th, and boy is he excited!

Steve Forbert has re-recorded one of the songs from his album "Moving Through America," and he is coming to Caffe Lena on February 11th.

Crys Matthews was scheduled to be at The Linda on February 9th. They've had to postpone it. Soon as we hear when we will let you know.

A Night of Joni songs sung by some of the Local 518's best happening at The Cohoes Music Hall on March 11th.

DJ Hollyw8d is helping to make change in the Local 518. He is such a positive force. We are excited to not only follow along but try to amplify the work he is doing.

British singer songwriter, and the former keyboard player for Iron Maiden, wrote a song to remember his mum upon her passing.

For nearly 50 years, Annie Haslam has been at the helm of the prog-rock band Renaissance. Her amazing vocal range just a part of their sound.

KC Morris speaks to Sara and Sean Watkins ahead of their October 27th performance at The Egg.

Perhaps you have some books with positive messages for youth and teens. This is a great time to pass them along.

Our good friend, Marty Wendell will be at Argyle Brewing's The Depot in Cambridge on Saturday night (10/8). We chatted about what he's been up to, and learn that he's got some archival material coming out this year, and they'll be working on a new album in December.

One of my favorite times to listen to the radio is Saturday night. Why? One word: Wanda. And you know who that is!

Mike Grutka has been spending some time recently creating his latest set of songs, an EP called "While I Was Away." We hear it and Mike tells some of the story behind the making of the EP.