Raye Zaragoza Offers a Bluesy New York Farewell at Rockwood Music Hall

 
Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood music Hall. Photo courtesy of Larufoto

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood music Hall. Photo courtesy of Larufoto

Saturday nights in the Lower East Side are typically crawling with artists and their guitar cases rushing to their next gig and filled with partially belligerent fans scattering about to find the nearest music venue. But last night, Rockwood Music Hall housed a one-of-a-kind bluesy, dreamy, folky, and all together beautiful showcase from Raye Zaragoza; your new favorite singer-songwriter.

When Raye takes the stage she resembles the presence of a revolving door. It’s as if every time she opened her mouth she would deliver a seemingly flawless note with more and more people rushing in from the streets.

Raye is a New York based singer songwriter who has been training in live music for years. Unsurprisingly, given her natural talents, it gives me no pause to learn that her father is Broadway actor Gregory Zaragoza, who had her started at a young age. Her sound is seasoned, technical, classic, and effortless at the same time.

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye has been a part of the music scene here in New York for years, frequenting venues like Arlene’s Grocery, The Knitting Factory, and Bizarre Bar in Brooklyn. Back in 2013 she was even a featured artist at LA Skins Music Fest, which must have inspired her in someway, seeing as Raye is now relocating to Los Angeles.

“All my songs are about New York, I don’t know what I’m doing going to LA. What am I going to write about?” Raye jokes in between songs. 

The room was so involved in her, she had them completely captivated. Through the crowded audience, I couldn’t tell if it was her beautiful lyrics about love, heartbreak, and New York City, or if it was her undeniable beauty and genuine stage presence, that had everyone so enchanted. But regardless, the room was silent as she sung, and roaring with applause when she finished.

Christian Nourijanian (left), Raye Zaragoza (center) and Tim Bassom (right)

Christian Nourijanian (left), Raye Zaragoza (center) and Tim Bassom (right)

Raye’s sound is reminiscent of Norah Jones, Billie Holliday, and Eva Cassidy. She’s a strong vocalist, but perhaps even a stronger writer. Her arrangements are simple, clean and highlight the lyrics of her songs. All of which are relatable without being boring, and beautiful without being over the top. Her EP, Heroine (available on SoundCloud and Spotify), is a beautiful collection of songs that represent her vibe perfectly: a classic and moving artist.

Though this is her farewell show in New York, to end things Raye just sweetly says, “thank you,” as she strums the last note on her guitar- because this is not goodbye - you'll being seeing amazing things from this girl from here on out.

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The Zombies Reclaim their Status Amongst The Pillars of Rock & Roll In NYC

 
 
 

Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone - founding members of legendary British invasion band the Zombies - played an impressive set at Rough Trade NYC last month in front of a packed-house filled with generations of inspired fans. Argent and Blunstone showcased an incredible set that was indicative of the Zombies harmonious sound and psychedelic expressions. Their performance highlighted how the band has reclaimed their relevancy in the rock & roll genre; while also making a substantial impact on both older and younger audiences bridging the gap between classic and modern rock.

As with most British Invasion bands that spread through the airwaves throughout the early to mid-1960s, the Zombies began touring the United States in 1964 behind their hit single, “She’s Not There,” which peaked to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. the Zombies performed at various venues across the U.S. while on tour and made their first U.S. television appearance in 1965. Their subsequent hit single, “Tell Her No” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March of 1965 and had become one of their biggest U.S. releases.

After signing with CBS Records from Decca Music Group, the Zombies released their classic studio album, Odessey and Oracle, in 1968. Over the past several decades, the album has since received international acclaim as one of the staples of 1960s expressionism with the Zombies hit song, “Time of The Season,” “This Will Be Our Year” and “Care of Cell 44.”

On that Thursday evening in Brooklyn, we were honored to witness Argent and Blunstone perform some of the Zombies' hit songs that triumphed during their 1960's debut. With open arms, Blunstone’s entrancing voice embraced audiences as they were drawn closer to the intriguing harmonies and melancholy hooks. The duo opened the show with the charming “Tell Her No” followed by the Zombies' debut hit “She’s Not There.” We stood together with the crowd and sang along with Blunstone’s cadent voice, echoing graciously across the stage. He helped the crowd follow his lead, providing comfort for both those reviving their youth and for the new generation reaffirming their appreciation for the Zombies' pioneering sound.

We were ultimately blown away when the Zombies performed their hit song, “Time of The Season,” when the crowd, no matter the generation, sung along to the classic record. Blunstone and Argent’s breezy acapella smoothed our ears with the songs expressive harmonies and relaxed melodies that were able to make us feel as one. They also performed songs from Still Got That Hunger, which provided audiences with a fresh taste of the Zombies latest works such as, “Moving On” and “Edge of the Rainbow,” that exemplified the band’s historic versatility and dynamic reach within their music.

Our experience of the Zombies performance that evening was intangible. The ability to witness these two pioneers of rock & roll brought upon a rare treat that reinforced our appreciation for musicians from that classic area and illustrated how powerful their impact has been and will be on current and future musicians. Although their music careers have had twists and turns – make no mistake – the Zombies are here to stay. As one of many 60’s and 70’s rock bands re-defining their legendary status through new albums and sold-out tours around the world, the Zombies have come off the bench and into the starting line-up.

Their new album is filled with vividly expressive lyrics, powerful instrumental talent, and a puff of smoky vocals that's rare to find these days. The Zombies showcased those talents effortlessly at Rough Trade, and most importantly, they did so by collectively bringing back the classic hits that continue to draw appreciation from fans and musicians across the world. They have continued their musical journey that aims to break barriers and surpass preconceived notions of rock: we couldn't be any more thrilled to hop along for the ride.

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All The Way From Nashville, Jet Black Alley Cat Blew New York City Away

 

On a Saturday night mission to find what was next in the New York City music scene, we stumbled across something amazing at the very well-known Lower East Side venue, Pianos. We had no idea who would be playing that night or what genres were in store for us but all it took was simply seeing the name of the opening band on the night's bill - Jet Black Alley Cat. After heading upstairs to the second stage of the venue we sat down, ordered some drinks and prepared ourselves to hear exactly what this group was about. When vocalist Joe Wilkinson ran through some vocal warm-ups the entire floor stood attention to see what was in store, and needless to say, they put on one of the best shows we saw that night. 

Coming out of Nashville, Tennessee on a tour stop in New York City, the self-proclaimed "Vintage-Pop/Rock-Groove" group had the crowds dancing with every song and jumping with every snare beat. We were hypnotized throughout the entire performance by the powerful echoing vocals, the catchy melodies, and the unique indie/dance vibes that were reminiscent of late night dance clubs, crowded venues at 2AM, and roaming the streets after leaving the bar. Their latest single, ROXY, especially caught our attention. The group truly comes together on this one in every way between the narrative lyrics and vintage electric sounds. Not only is this radio quality music, it's what Top 40 music should aspire to be.

The five-piece band consists of Joe on vocals, Zach Douglas and Christian Harrison on guitar, Cristofer Johnson on bass, with Bryant Lowry on drums. Catch them on tour June 4th at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA and June 13th at The Rebel Lounge in Phoenix, AZ. Watch their premier film for ROXY below:

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Hollis Brown Captures the Essence of American Rock & Roll at Berlin NYC

 

New York City rock & roll band, Hollis Brown, played in front of a packed-house at Berlin NYC last Wednesday during the second performance of their Berlin NYC residency. We've been fortunate to lay eyes on this emerging five-piece band for the fifth time, as they continue to raise our eyebrows with compelling melodic content, compassionate lyrics and mastery in live performance. The group's roaring sound, blended with roots of classic rock influences, resonated across the crowd-filled venue. With our ears full of the phonic notes of rock & roll, blues and Americana, it's no surprise Hollis Brown has a place as one of the leading independent bands in the genre.

Stemming from their Record Store Day release, Cluster Of Pearls, Hollis Brown began their month long residency at Berlin NYC on May 4, 2016. As in their first performance, their second date gave us a touch of both their older and latest works, jamming out songs such as "Ride on The Train," "Faith & Love", "Sweet Tooth," "Rain Dance" and "Cold City" as well as their iconic finale with "John Wayne". Each song exemplified Hollis Brown's raw, yet heart-felt, sonic arrangements that illustrate the band's vivid lyrical style and versatile songwriting ability. Hollis Brown's jeering and rapturous melodies capture the essence of rock & roll, inviting us into a realm where classic and contemporary rock blends together perfectly.

Lead singer/songwriter, Mike Montali, crooned the intimate LES venue with commanding, yet subtle vocals, enticing the crowd to draw closer towards him - mesmerized by the band’s jaunty and bluesy western-esque melodies. Standing up front side-stage, the crowd pushed us closer to lead guitarist Jonathan Bonilla as he demonstrated his stormy guitar skills filled with affirmation and ferocity. Bonilla’s muscular work on the strings, along with balancing touches from pianist Adam Bock, drummer Andrew Zehnal and bassist Scott Thompson, offered audiences with a complex and firmly rooted rock & roll sound that portrayed a heart-felt authenticity that radiated off stage.

International front-man, Tony Wright of VerseChorusVerse, kicked off the showcase with his musical brilliance that has spanned across the UK, Ireland and Europe. His polarizing lyrics and keen musical experimentation in the rock & roll space, offered a rare treat for the early birds that flocked to see Hollis Brown perform. Renowned alternative-country and folk-twang singer/songwriter, Don DiLego, followed putting on a spectacular show that drove audiences away from the cold Lower East Side and into a raw-boned saloon in middle-america - bringing bourbon, old tales and lost loves to mind. His mastery of the genre harnesses a melodious craft of fine-tuned musical skill, truly making Don DeLego one of the leading emerging artists to come out of the indie-rock and alternative country space.

As curators of classic rock, Hollis Brown is spearheading the modern rock & roll movement in a city that thirsts for an American-born sound. Their ambition to combine both classic and contemporary rock is a catalyst of their own music individuality that has garnished not only a revival in the genre, but a dedicated fan-base that seeks good-old fashioned rock & roll. Make sure to not miss your opportunity to see this incredible band perform live during their residency at Berlin NYC before it's too late. 

 

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Guitar prodigy, Marcus Machado, plays The Platinum Room at Guitar Center Union Square

 
Marcus Machado performs at Guitar Center Manhattan. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado performs at Guitar Center Manhattan. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Since meeting Marcus Machado last summer, the young guitar prodigy had already stamped his mark on the indie music scene by way of him winning Rolling Stone Magazine's "New Young Gun Contest" in 2014. His extraordinary talent, music influences and his relentless ambition for perfection has left a permanent impression that has reminded us of the days when funk, soul, blues and hip-hop flourished together.

Since the November 2015 release of his debut EP, "29," Marcus has taken the stage at some of New York's premier music venues including The Blue Note, SOBs and Subrosa. As a mastered curator of his sound, the prodigious guitarist has recorded and performed with industry greats such as Sandra St. Victor, Marcus Miller, V Jeffrey Smith, Pharoahe Monch and DJ Spinna - to name a few. When we attended Marcus's guitar clinic at Guitar Center Manhattan last week his performance, and on-stage persona, was indicative of how far he has come as an artist. His music has forged a path for the next generation of guitarists seeking to adopt their own sound; while also, inheriting those who had come before them. 

Marcus Machado plays The Platinum Room. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado plays The Platinum Room. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Along with contemporary greats, Daru Jones, Les Lemon and Paul Bloom Marcus Machado rocked the Platinum Room at Guitar Center performing original songs from his debut EP and renditions of iconic rock legends such as Prince, Eddie Hazel, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and of course, Jimi Hendrix .With features by V Jeffrey Smith and JS Williams, Marcus took charge with performances of Jimi Hendrix's "Power With Soul" and a masterful tribute to the one and only J Dilla.

Marcus's powerful rock-inspired anthem "Rockout" and soulful hip-hop jam "New Thangz" drew customers from across Guitar Center with sounds of jazz, funk, soul and rock piercing through the glass doors of the Platinum Room. Inspiring guitarists, fans and industry professionals looked on as Marcus and his 5 piece band lit up the room indicative of the vintage Gibson, Fender and Duisenberg guitars that hung above the stage. 

Marcus Machado and The Soulfolk Experience. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado and The Soulfolk Experience. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

His feature on The Soulfolk Experience's "Chariot" illustrated a unique contrast and depth that Marcus applies to his music. The soft, bluesy and americana influences offered audiences with further appreciation for how versatile these incredible musicians that took the stage were and how important it was for many aspiring musicians to add to their craft. Marcus topped the evening with titanic finale to the late Phife Dawg with covers of A Tribe Called Quest and other early 90's hip-hop beats that defined not only an era, but an entire genre of music.

Marcus Machado is not only a prodigy, but a representation of a movement that is re-defining how we, as music lovers, view live performances and instrumentation. Marcus's sound is a resurrection of the time where the guitar ruled the stage of rock, funk and soul. As an emerging independent artist, Marcus is solidifying his place amongst his contemporaries and carrying the legacies of the iconic rock stars that came before. Truly the prodigy is ready for the next stage in his young promising career. 

Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

 

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Kapali Long woos crowds on the East Coast leg of “The Different Tour 2016”

 

With nothing but two guitars and a backpack, Hawaii’s very own Kapali Long, met with The Fox and King in February to kick off the east coast leg of “The Different Tour 2016” in an effort to promote his brand new EP, “The Different.”

Stemming from a beautiful family heritage of Hawaiian folk musicians, Kapali Long started playing acoustic singer-songwriter music at a young age. The aspiring guitarist began playing music at the age of three where he first learned to play piano. He would eventually go on to master the guitar and adopt an early 90’s alternative style that combined captivating lyrics, with vivid storytelling and features derived from traditional Hawaiian folk music.

“I’ve always played acoustic singer-songwriter music ever since I was 14, playing four-hour gigs in coffee shops - covering Van Morrison; to Led Zeppelin; to Brand New; to Taking Back Sunday – it was everything,” Kapali says. “Now I’m back again, 10 years later, playing acoustic singer-songwriter, bluesy, folk, rock-stuff with Hawaiian influences.”

Kapali Long arrived from Los Angeles to New York after performing at the Nissan® Grand Plaza stage at NAMM 2016 (National Association of Music Merchants) where he performed for 20,000 people on the KIA Soul Main Stage. In his first New York performance in over two years, the multi-instrumentalist performed at the lower east side’s very own, Pianos, sharing the bill with other talented emerging artists. Kapali rocked the two-story venue on the first stop of “The Different Tour 2016,” crooning the intimate crowd with a commanding, yet mellow; vocal that illustrated the sounds of blues and hints of Kapali’s traditional folk influences. He transitioned his raw and invigorating performance to another equally legendary venue, Arlene’s Grocery, wooing a hushed crowd on a frigid Valentines Day weekend.

Kapali Long performing at Pianos

Kapali Long performing at Pianos

During the second week on the NYC tour, Kapali took part in an open mic session at Black Rose, playing along side fantastic local musicians and performers. He also performed at the industry renowned Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1, in front of a full room of fans. His passion for music and sensuous voice lit up the Lower East Side, drawing the audience to a tentative and tranquil state. You could feel the joy and soul of Kapali’s performance radiating off the stage.

“It’s cool to do that at least one time in your set, but for every song the crowd pretty much stopped,” Kapali says. “Those people were there for the lyrics. Getting to share my stories is what fuels me to keep going and keep doing this.”

Kapali plays Rockwood Music Hall

Kapali plays Rockwood Music Hall

Alongside The Fox and King and production company, For The Xperience, Kapali filmed his first featured music video for the track, “Between Then & Now." Coincidentally, it's a song Kapali wrote just two years earlier when he first came to New York. One day removed from his stellar performance at Rockwood, the TFAK and For the Xperience crew drove Kapali out to the Bushwick and Williamsburg sections of Brooklyn. This grassroots production featured Kapali on location, capturing shots of concrete murals, art, historical landmarks, open parks and the Manhattan skyline itself.

Kapali also interviewed with TFAK’s very own, Kevin Vallejos, to provide fans and audiences a clean and more insightful look at where he's been, where the journey as a musician has taking him, what’s next for his music and what to expect from his upcoming album. The interview and video will be featured in a soon-to-be-released mini-documentary about Kapali’s east coast tour in New York.

Behind the scenes with Kapali for his first official music video "Between Then and Now"

Behind the scenes with Kapali for his first official music video "Between Then and Now"

Kapali Long’s time in New York has illustrated how far he has come from being the young talented guitarist that soothed coffee enthusiasts in his native hometown of Honolulu. In what has taken him years to forge, Kapali Long is a versatile force in the independent acoustic music scene that has adopted the ability to persuade us with a sense of empathy and compassion. Through the kindness of his music, Kapali continues to share his harmonious lyrics through the spirit of aloha and persuade his fans to cherish how music can bring people together.

“What I’m trying to do is spread the awareness of aloha and just passing it forward,” Kapali revealed. “That’s just the message that I’ve embodied in my music: pass that love forward.”