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Tonight: SMUG

March 22, 2019

Local pop punk trio SMUG are celebrating their return tonight  on a jam-packed bill at Nietzsche’s. The band has been busy since the release of their debut full-length Gorgeous, which came out at the tale end of 2018, recently returning from a twelve-date east coast tour as well as wrapping up a successful college radio campaign. Joining these rascals will be grunge rock re-imaginists Ugly Sun, riot grrrl up-and-and comers Party’s Over, and the second ever revealing of somber indiemo act Wild Once. Doors are at 9pm with an $8 cover.

Tonight: Ben Folds

March 21, 2019

Alt piano-rock stalwart Ben Folds returns to the area with a rare solo show this evening at the Fallsview Casino. Known for his energetic and engaging live performances, this show will certainly appeal to old and new fans alike. Folds first rose to prominence with the Ben Folds Five after their 1997 release Whatever and Ever Amen. With songs like “Brick” and “Song for the Dumped,” Folds used his trademark sardonic wit and profanity to diffuse lyrics of melancholy and self-conflict in a way that resonated with audiences. Following the breakup of the Ben Folds Five, Folds released his debut solo record Rockin’ the Suburbs in 2001. What has been described by Folds as “punk rock for sissies” is actually a carefully crafted synthesis of pop and classical sensibilities that have defined his genre bending sound for decades. Currently,  Folds works as the Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony orchestra[...]

Tonight: Jose Gonzalez

March 19, 2019

Tonight the University at Buffalo Center for the Performing Arts will host Swedish singer-songwriter Jose Gonzalez and The String Theory. Gonzalez’s indie style dates back to 2006 when he covered The Knife’s song “Heartbeats,” which immediately made college radio salivate. To prove himself worthy of the singer-songwriter moniker, Gonzalez continued to work on original material, releasing three solo albums within ten years. His latest effort is a live album, Jose Gonzalez & The String Theory. By creating the unlikely partnership with the avant-garde chamber orchestra, Gonzalez proves that he is not finished pushing the envelope of modern music, and that his ability to take risks keeps his fans fascinated. Doors open at 7:30pm and there is a $29 cover. Written by Kevin Prentice

Best Violin Strings for Beginners

February 13, 2019

Best Violin Strings for Beginners Before choosing a new violin string, it’s important to consider the level of skills in playing the instrument. There are violin strings for professionals, and there are specially made for beginners. So how do you find the perfect strings for your new violin? Choosing a Quality Violin String If you’re a beginner in playing violin, the type of string you use will have a huge effect in creating the sound. For instance, type, tension, and gauge of the strings have an impact on dramatic and subtle changes made. So you really need to find the right strings that matches the quality of sound you want to create. Below are some helpful tips to make sure you get the best violin strings as a beginner: Understand the different types of violin strings. The three main types of strings are synthetic, steel, and gut; they all differ[...]

Tonight: Boy Jr.

December 16, 2018

Rochester originated indie artist Boy Jr. celebrates a new single release this weekend tonight at Milkie’s! in 2015 Erica Allen-Lubman equipped with musical talent, a computer, and a dream, combined the three to release an expressive EP titled No Hard Feelings with the help of Delaney Hafener and Chris Ozone.Since then, Allen-Lubman under the name Boy Jr. has released Some Tunes, Some More Tunes, and “It’s Enough,” each a new development on the artist’s sound, as well as a deeper look into her mind. By far “It’s Enough” is my favorite Boy Jr. release so far. It’s a hard-hitting track that showcases the culmination of three years’ worth of tweaking and development by Boy Jr., proving that she can rock as hard as the full-set bands that perform. Watching a promo video posted to the Boy Jr. Facebook page is reminiscent of watching a young Amy Winehouse perform in the[...]

Tonight: Ava Luna

December 5, 2018

Soulfully innovative indie group Ava Luna performs tonight at Mohawk Place! Since 2007, Ava Luna has been garnering attention for its creative blending of genres, ranging from soul and R&B to reggae and psychedelic with heavy synths. However, Ava Luna’s recent release, Moon 2, has amassed recognition for being vastly different from its earlier works; most attribute this change to Carlos Hernandez stepping back from his leadership role, allowing his bandmates to contribute more creatively during the recording process. The result: an extraordinary album of stellar extraterrestrial sounds. Ava Luna creates its own world through which it easily maneuvers listeners in this album. Maggie Lange of Pitchfork puts it perfectly, stating in her review, “It’s an electro-funk that plays on a gravity plane where everything is a different weight, sounds melt more deeply and float off more easily.” Listening to Moon 2 is like being projected back in time, yet[...]

The Tins Drop Two New Singles

November 30, 2018

Local indie rock group The Tins have released a new double A-side single, featuring the the tracks “Saksaywaman” and “Open Minded.” Recorded in Buffalo’s own Mammoth Recording Studio, The Tins collaborated with distinguished producer Ted Young (The Gaslight Anthem, Andrew W.K.), and engineer Jessica Thompson (Train, Natalie Merchant) to mix and master the songs. The dual-sided single combines balancing tracks, creating a work that’s both fun and thoughtful. First impressions of “Saksaywaman” are that it’s a relaxed yet danceable track. The vocals of Adam Stanley and Michael Santillo are reminiscent of Bear Hands singer Dylan Rau, specifically in tone. However, The Tins have differentiated themselves while simultaneously adding to their genre. One of the most outstanding parts of “Saksaywaman” is the percussion. It’s so simple, but it provides such a necessary rhythm and accent to the song. The little clicks of the clavas compliment the hustle of the guitar’s melody. As for “Open[...]

Tonight: Death From Above

November 25, 2018

103.3 the Edge proudly presents Death From Above tonight at The Rapids Theatre! The duo from Toronto, Canada has had a tumultuous past, yet has overcome difficulties and differences to continue creating some pretty banging music. While no one knows for sure how Sebastien Grainger and Jesse F. Keeler met (they perpetuate various tales from gay bars to pirate ships), Death From Above has been jamming since 2001. Within a short 17 years, the band has changed their name twice, overcame a five-year hiatus following creative differences, and released three full-length albums. Most recently, their album Outrage! Is Now dropped in September last year, featuring the single “Freeze Me.” In fact, “Freeze Me” has popped up on my Spotify playlist a number of times these recent months; their sound closely relates to Muse and Royal Blood combined, creating a hard-hitting powerhouse backed by strengthening, yet subtle, synths. I remember listening[...]

Tonight: Forager

November 17, 2018

Surf’s up at Milkie’s tonight with featured band Forager! Described as a “surfgaze” group, Forager originated in 2016 Cleveland, Ohio with mainstays Raye Hart, James Thain, and Justin Bellino. The group has gained notoriety among college radios and indie bloggers following their first EP release this past February. Deadbeat Suite is a classic vivacious “feel-good” album with one catchy track after another. The driving hooks and bouncing rhythms instills the urge to get up and dance like Uma Thurman and John Travolta in cult classic “Pulp Fiction.” The major tones throughout the album bring a sense of serenity and blissfulness. There’s nostalgia for a time and music genre that seems to have fallen by the wayside over a number of decades. It’s time for a revival with bands like Forager. Tonight’s lineup includes local rock groups Nylon Otters and Halo Nellie. Doors open at 8pm with a $5 cover charge.[...]

Tonight: Cougar Sweat

November 9, 2018

Nietzsche’s is hosting a rock show featuring Cougar Sweat tonight! Originating in Atlanta, Georgia in 2016, Cougar Sweat prides itself on being an energetic, joy-embracing group. With Caleb Chauncey on guitar and vocals and Nate Cook on drums, the band released a self-titled EP in February 2017 and a single called “Peace” this past May. The tracks deliver a full sound despite having only two members, calling references to modern influences like Royal Blood, Dead Sara and Ok Go. Cougar Sweat indeed lives up to the “people-to-people style, stuffing a venue with solid sounds and brotherly love” description on the group’s Facebook page. Tonight’s lineup includes fellow Georgia rock band McLeod, as well as Buffalo natives Velvet Bethany and Venus Vacation. The show begins at 10 pm with a $5 cover charge. Age restrictions are 21+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Written by Samantha Schweitzer

5 Expert Tips for Buying Your First Instrument

November 6, 2018

If you are currently searching for your first instrument, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. There is a multitude of decisions to be made, and these options can seem endless. There is the brand, model, make, size, etc. For accessory-heavy pieces like guitars and drums, you need to think about all the supplemental equipment as well! With so many options, it’s always best to do your research. Although the musical world is expansive and varied, there are some universal buying tricks that can be used on many instruments. The following article will divulge four aforementioned tips and tricks for buying your first instrument! 1. Consider a Trial Run When perusing possible instrument choices, it may help to test possible candidates by playing them. You wouldn’t want to buy a drum set only to discover you don’t like the wiring on the snare drum! By testing out possibilities, you allow your musical[...]

Tonight: Peel Dream Magazine

November 1, 2018

Rising indie rock act Peel Dream Magazine is performing tonight at Mohawk Place! Releasing their debut album Modern Meta Physic in early October, Peel Dream Magazine has caught the ears of a wide audience.Joe Stevens, who formed the band, takes inspiration from bands like The Velvet Underground and The Beatles, relaying his own perception of their sounds. While not much seems to be written about the band, what is published are the things I wish I could write about a band. There is so much adoration in these authors’ words for Peel Dream Magazine and the music they produce. Regarded as “a record of slowly unfurling charms”on For the Rabbits, Modern Meta Physic brilliantly showcases the band’s take on a 90’s interpretations of the psychedelic sounds of the 60’s. Tonight’s opener is Buffalo’s own heave. Having released a new demo titled “Andy” at the beginning of October, the show at[...]

Tonight: Avi Buffalo

October 25, 2018

Indie musician Avi Buffalo is performing tonight at Mohawk Place! Having beginnings as a  solo project by frontman Avigdor Zahner-Isenberg, Avi Buffalo at its core is still Zahner-Isenberg. However, the project evolves into a full-fledged band for live performances and some studio recordings. Avi Buffalo has released a self-titled album, and At Best Cuckold through Sub Pop Records. Both LPs were dutifully worked over, progressing with each year that passed to complete them. At Best Cuckold has proven to be a great development of the band’s sound and genre, leaving audiences waiting to see what the next album brings. Joining tonight’s lineup are Highland Park duo Haunted Summer, and Buffalo’s very own Stress Dolls, and Parade Chic. Mohawk Place opens its doors at 7pm. Tickets are available for $10. Written by Samantha Schweitzer

Tonight: The Tins

October 19, 2018

Local indie pop act The Tins are returning to Mohawk Place this evening.  Recently releasing their self-titled full-length album, The Tins have received a warm welcome among listeners.  Notably, The Tins has been included in the NACC Chart’s “20 Most Added Songs.” Having formed nearly ten years ago, The Tins continue to evolve as a band, most recently  introducing more psychedelic flavor with their latest release.  “Jubilee,” a new single from the album, is especially airy and light, seeming to take influence from The Beatles (“Penny Lane” crossed my mind on this one).  Having collaborated with the Goo Goo Dolls’ Robby Takac, The Tins is something to be admired, adding to the phenomenal sounds coming out of the Queen City lately. Joining The Tins tonight are Buffalo groups Witty Tarbox, and newcomers Leyda.  From the Capital Region, indie pop rock band Lucy rounds out the lineup. Doors open at 8pm to[...]

Tonight: William Elliott Whitmore

October 14, 2018

Iowa DIY artist William Elliott Whitmore is live tonight at Rec Room! Throughout his almost 20-year career, Whitmore has released seven full-length albums; his most recent release, Kilonova, is starkly different, being his first cover album. As an artist that takes influences from folk, blues, and punk rock genres, Whitmore pays homage to those that have greatly impacted him. Most notably included are Bad Religion (“Don’t Pray on Me”), Johnny Cash (“Five Feet High and Rising”), and Bill Withers (“Ain’t No Sunshine”). Keeping the integrity of the included songs, Whitmore delivers the messages in a significantly different manner that’s wholly and beautifully his own. Rec Room doors are at 7pm tonight. Tickets are $12 in advance. For those 16 and older, please be ready to show ID. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Written by Samantha Schweitzer