50showsat50

2011-12-18T17:30:00.001-05:00

That's all Folks

I've stopped updating the blog. But I haven't stopped going to shows and taking photos.

For more of what you've seen here, check out my Flickr photo sets at Live Music

Thanks for reading!

The Decemberists at the Beacon Theatre 1/25/11

2011-01-26T20:12:00.001-05:00

The Decemberists played three sold-out nights at the Beacon Theatre in NYC 1/24-1/26/11.

Thanks to my friends at Linchpin Digital I got a last-minute photo pass to shoot one of my favorite bands.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Ingrid Michaelson's Holiday Hop 2010 Ingrid Michaelson's Holiday Hop 2010

2010-12-14T15:38:00.001-05:00

Ingrid Michaelson and friends played their fourth annual Holiday Hop at the Highline Ballroom on 12/10/10.

Greg Laswell opened after a set by the "Aunties;" Ingrid, Bess and Allie in disguise...

Jeff Tweedy at the Tarrytown Music Hall on 12/6/10

2010-12-07T13:14:00.001-05:00

Jeff Tweedy played a solo show at the Tarrytown Music Hall on 12/6/10.

There was no photography allowed. I sneaked in my DSLR, but my stealth shots were a bit too rushed to get good sharpness. When the going gets tough, the tough go for... special effects. :)

A couple of more shots can be seen in my Flickr photostream.

Show 50+14

Brandon Flowers, Hammerstein Ballroom, NY 12/2/10

2010-12-03T14:40:00.001-05:00

Brandon Flowers played the Hammerstein Ballroom, NY on 12/2/10.

No photo pass, so this was another "point-and-shoot" show.

See more in myFlickr photoset.

Show 50+13

Guster at the Beacon Theatre 10/29/10

2010-11-23T19:15:00.001-05:00

Guster played the Beacon Theatre on 10/29/10; it was the last show of their Fall tour supporting their new album Easy Wonderful.

No photo pass for this show, so this was shot with the point and shoot.

A couple more can be seen in the Flickr photoset.

Show 50+12

Johnny Flynn, Music Hall of Williamsburg 10/22/10

2010-10-25T21:34:00.001-04:00

Johnny Flynn played a set at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on 10/22/10.

Although it was a short set, he played both favorites and songs from his new album, to be released in the US in a few days.

Don't miss him the next time around...

Show 50+11

Ingrid Michaelson Band, Best Buy Theater in NYC, 10/13/10

2010-10-19T17:01:00.002-04:00

Ingrid Michaelson and her band played the Best Buy Theater in NYC on 10/13/10.

Entering to Led Zep's 'Immigrant Song', the band uncovered, then covered the song.

Ingrid was funny, sincere and talented as usual. Her band is a tight musical unit and good friends too.

The National in Prospect Park, Brooklyn 7/27/10

2010-07-28T20:41:00.001-04:00

The National played in Propect Park as part of the Celebrate Brooklyn summer festival.

The band was happy to be playing in their neighborhood and played an intense set.

Additional musicians included Kyle Resnick on Trumpet, Ben Lanz on Trumpet and more, Padma Newsome on Violin and keys and a percussionist whose name I missed.

For more, check out the entire photoset on Flickr.

Show 50+9 (50+8 was Taylor Swift at Nassau Coliseum; no pics).

Titus Andronicus at "The Stood," SUNY Purchase 4/14/10

2010-04-15T16:40:00.001-04:00

Titus Andronicus made a stop on their "Monitour" at SUNY Purchase's student center. Debuting their new album "The Monitor," this was a free show and a warmup for their sold out show at Maxwell's in Hoboken, NJ.

They played a late, hot and intense set for a small crowd of SUNY students.

Cassie Ramone, of The Babies and Vivian Girls sat in after their set.

Wilco at the Wellmont Theater, Montclair, NJ 4/2/10

2010-04-04T16:32:00.001-04:00

Wilco played the first of a two night stand at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ. These were shot for the Vulture blog at New York Magazine online. All of the photos are on my photoblog 50showsat50.

Part of the show was an acoustic set. The lamps gave the stage an intimate, living room feel.

More photos in higher resolution in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 50+5

The National @ The Bell House, Brooklyn 3/11/10

2010-03-12T09:43:00.001-05:00

The National played the first of two shows debuting songs from their new album High Violet. Set to be released 5/11/10 in the US, the band seemed excited to play the new songs.

Guests included Thomas Bartlett AKA Doveman and their horn section that included Kyle Resnick.

This show and tomorrow night were some of the hottest tickets in NYC this week. I got lucky and snagged one of 30 tickets released at 5:30 by the band for fans.

More high resolution photos in my Flickr photostream.

Show # 50+4

50showsat50 photo makes Relix magazine...

2010-01-19T10:21:00.001-05:00

The current issue of Relix magazine contains this photo of legendary producer Steve Lillywhite sitting in with Guster at one of last fall's Beacon Theatre shows.

Thanks Relix...

Sam Amidon and Thomas Bartlett at Mercury Lounge, 1/12/10

2010-01-18T21:37:00.001-05:00

Sam Amidon played a set accompanied at times with his friend Thomas Bartlett on 1/12/08 at Mercury Lounge.

Thomas Bartlett, AKA Doveman, sat in. Both of these talented guys collaborate with Beth Orton on her next album.

More on Flickr.

This preceded sets the following week with Beth Orton in Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Show # 50+3

Evelyn, Evelyn Private show at The Slipper Room, 1/12/10

2010-01-18T21:30:00.001-05:00

Evelyn, Evelyn, the conjoined twin singer(s)-songwriter(s) played a private, tune-up show for fans at the Slipper Room in NYC the afternoon of 1/12/10.

For more on the sisters, see this internet entry.

To avoid knowing too much, don't look here.

Photography wasn't permitted. I was too great a fan of everyone involved to violate that request.

It was a special event. Be sure to check them out when they tour and release their next album.

Show # 50+2

Emily Wells at City Winery 1/2/10

2010-01-03T17:49:00.001-05:00

Emily Wells headlined the show at City Winery on Saturday, January 2, 2010.

Playing unaccompanied by other humans, Emily proceeded to create, on-the-fly, amazing mixes of her songs.

Don't miss a chance to see her play.

NY Magazine liked this one for their Vulture blog NYE weekend slideshow.

More high res photos in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 50+1

Jenny Owen Youngs at City Winery 1/2/10

2010-01-03T17:43:00.001-05:00

Jenny Owen Youngs played the opening set at City Winery on Saturday, January 2nd, 2010. She was accompanied by the multi-talented Chris Kuffner and Elliot Jacobson.

Last seen backing Ingrid Michaelson, Chris and Elliot had many friends in the audience including Bess Rogers.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 50+1

50showsat50: The year in review

2010-01-02T11:33:00.001-05:00

Watch this space for what I learned and a roundup of some of the best photos from the run.

I hope to get some tie after the weekend and I get back to a smaller household and normal schedule.

Ingrid Michaelson's Holiday Hop 2009 at City Winery, 12/21/09

2009-12-24T17:09:00.001-05:00

Ingrid Michaelson, her wonderful band and friend Greg Laswell held their third annual Holiday Hop at City Winery on Monday, December 21st, 2009.

Her good friend (very very good friend?) Greg Laswell opened the show.

This is a really talented, very tight band. The multi-talented Bess Rogers is hidden in this shot unfortunately.

See more high-rs shots in my Flickr photoset.

This was show number 50. I'll post more about the project and an incredible year of music after Xmas. The amazing Nick Sonderup of 100bandsin100days and his muse Sunshine joined my wife and I for dinner and the show. Make sure you check Nick's blog for the soon-to-be-released short documentary of his project. Stay tuned for a new music blog by Nick with some photography by me if I'm lucky.

Show # 50!

Pearl and the Beard, Rockwood Music Hall 12/17/09

2009-12-18T15:14:00.001-05:00

Pearl and the Beard played the Rockwood Music Hall on 12/17/09.

Tuning up for a post-holiday tour they played songs from their new release God Bless Your Weary Soul, Amanda Richardson

More photos in my Flickr photoset.

I first heard them on WNYC's Soundcheck with John Schaefer. You can listen to their interview and live performance here. Learn just who Amanda Richardson really is...

Pearl and the Beard are (acccording to their Myspace page):

Jocelyn "knit or die" Mackenzie vox, percussion, glockenspiel, glasses.

Emily "fight the power" Hope Price vox, cello, accordion, glasses.

Jeremy "no i in team" Styles: vox, guitar, glasses.

Show # 49

Rosi Golan Rockwood Music Hall 12/17/09

2009-12-18T10:20:00.001-05:00

Rosi Golan played the Rockwood Music Hall on 12/17/09.

She debuted a few new tunes and arrangements worked on just that day.

High res shots in my Flickr photostream.

Show # 49

Phish at Madison Square Garden 12/2/09, 12/3/09 & 12/4/09

2009-12-05T11:57:00.001-05:00

Phish played a three night run at Madison Square Garden on 12/2/09-12/4/09. Though the help of an old friend and my new friends at New York Magazine, I got credentials to shoot these for New York Magazine's "Out on the Weekend" feature. All photos are from the 12/3/09 show.

Sets varied each night and material ranged from songs from their latest album "Joy" to rarities from the past.

They're now veterans of arena shows and can fill every inch with light and sound.

More high res. photos in my Flickr photoset.

50showsat50 photos also used at:

Headcount

Shows # 46, 47 & 48

Update...

2009-12-01T09:38:00.001-05:00

50showsat50 pictures made it to New York Magazine's music blog again.

NY mag's Vulture blog

Next up, Phish's three night run at Madison Square Garden. I'll be sitting about 10th row center for all three nights.

Guster at the Beacon Theatre, 11/28/09

2009-11-29T18:26:00.001-05:00

Guster played the Beacon Theatre on
11/28/09. It was the second night of a
two night run celebrating the 10 year
anniversary of their album 'Lost and
Gone Forever." They played it in
its entirety in the second set.

For the 'Lost and Gone Forever' set, the band added strings, horns and a choir from a Washington, DC school. A good time was had by all.

Both the band and the fans were into it from the first notes to the last.

More high resolution photos in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 45

Zero 7 at Terminal 5 in NYC, 11/27/09

2009-11-28T13:10:00.001-05:00

Zero 7 played Terminal 5 in NYC on Friday, 11/27/09.

Olivia Chaney and Eska Mtungwazi joined the band for the tour.

Higher resolution pics in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 44

Busy week...

2009-11-22T14:58:00.001-05:00

50showsat50 photos were appreciated all over last week.

On the way to see Neko Case, Amanda Palmer emailed me asking to use a couple from last Saturday's show.

Within the hour, New York Magazine asked to use a few for their music blog. Photos four and five are from the Amanda Palmer show.

Within minutes, WNYC, our local public radio station asked to use future shots for their new NYC music section. Look for news here when they finally start it up.

And on Tuesday Morning I got a request from the folks at JayKco, makers of handmade guitar straps. Seems they saw one of their straps in a photo of Neko Case from the Beacon. See it on their site.

Now a little rest until Zero 7 and Guster next weekend. Fingers crossed for a photo pass for Phish at MSG...

Neko Case at the Beacon Theatre 11/16/09

2009-11-17T09:59:00.001-05:00

Neko Case played the Beacon Theatre 11/16/09

Backed by her band there was strong music to match her strong voice.

I had great seats for the show; not so much for photography. At least I could sneak in the slr...

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show #43

Amanda Palmer at Music Hall of Williamsburg 11/14/09

2009-11-15T19:03:00.001-05:00

Amanda Palmer paraded to the stage with Nervous Cabaret Satuday, November 14th.

Amanda played songs from her latest album "Who Killed Amanda Palmer" as well as Dresden Dolls favorites.

She took advantage of having a full band an friends like Skip Shirey and Franz Nicolay to cover songs and just have lots of fun in general.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 42

Nervous Cabaret at Music Hall of Williamsburg 11/14/09

2009-11-15T18:36:00.001-05:00

Nervous Cabaret opened the night at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on Saturday, November 14, 2009. They also backed Amanda Palmer who headlined the show.

The Nervous Cabaret horns were wonderful all night. Actually, all of them are really multi-instrumentalists.

Don't assume you're not being watched...

Ingrid Michaelson at Webster Hall 9/16/09

2009-09-18T09:28:00.001-04:00

Ingrid Michaelson and her great band (and friends) Allie Moss, Bess Rogers, Chris Kuffner and Elliot Jacobson toured supporting her new album Everybody at Webster Hall on 9/16/09.

She played to a sold-out crowd that knew and loved everything she played including all of her new material.

Greg Holden at Webster Hall 9/16/09

2009-09-18T09:09:00.001-04:00

Greg Holden opened for Ingrid Michaelson at Webster Hall on 9/16/09.

Greg was promoting his album 'A Word in Edgewise'. Judging from the line to buy his music (and get photos taken with him), the show was a great success.

Ingrid, Allie and Bess joined him on stage.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 41

Sid 'n Susie (Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs) at City Winery 9/11/09

2009-09-12T15:31:00.001-04:00

Sid 'n Susie (Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs) played City Winery on 9/11/09.

This was the second show of their tour supporting their latest album Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs, Under the Covers Vol. 2 (Check out Michael Giltz's review in the Huffington Post).

They had a few slip ups, forgetting lyrics and vocal parts, but they laughed it off and played on through. They showed us their fake book on which they relied heavily.

Technical problems didn't help; Matthew's guitar broke and was poorly repaired. He played a new, inexpensive guitar he had just bought. Susanna's guitar was left in a cab that day. They were accompanied by Matthew's friend and bandmate Paul Chastain. HE had his guitar and leant it to Susanna for a small Bangles medley late in the show.

Higher resolution photos in my Flickr photoset.

I shot this show for Venuszine. Their review of the show, by Eleanor Whitney, is here. This certainly describes my experience of the show.

I deleted a semi-anonymous panning of the show on my Flickr photostream. Had they published their name or had anything public in their photostream I would have left it visible.

They'll be back at City Winery for two shows in November. May have to go back to hear them with all their proper gear.

Show # 40

Elizabeth & The Catapult at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on 9/3/09

2009-09-04T12:47:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth & The Catapult (and guest Jeff Taylor) played the Music Hall of Williamsburg on 9/3/09.

Playing a set heavy on older material (rather than songs from their new release Taller Children), they had fun and played hard.

Jeff Taylor and his band played immediately before E&TC and joined the band for part of the main set and encore. They're obviously great friends.

More in my Flickr photoset.

I shot this show for Venuszine; I'm glad they asked. Listening to Taller Children in the weeks before the show made me a fan. They said they'll be touring this Fall (although with whom is still a secret).

Show # 39

Taylor Swift at Madison Square Garden 8/27/09

2009-08-30T12:39:00.001-04:00

Taylor Swift at Madison Square Garden 8/27/09.

No camera for this show, so my daughter's iPhone pics are the best I could do.

She really was great. Very impressive for a first tour as headliner.

Updates - New shows, New Ingrid Michaelson music.

2009-08-20T09:12:00.001-04:00

After two weeks away without a show, things will be heating up soon.

Taking my daughter to the hottest ticket in NYC - Taylor Swift at MSG on 8/27/09. Have pretty good seats. Glad I don't desperately need cash, these are reselling for lots of money.

On the other end of the venue size spectrum I'll be seeing Elizabeth & The Catapult at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on 9/3/09. I'll be photographing this for Venus Zine. I'm really enjoying their new album Taller Children.

Ingrid Michaelson's new album Everybody hits the streets (assuming you still buy CDs anymore) on 8/25/09. Had to post her widget; anything to support her work.

The Veils at the Mercury Lounge on 7/30/09

2009-07-31T12:21:00.001-04:00

The Veils played the Mercury Lounge on 7/30/09.

This was a last minute show shooting for Venus Zine in a pinch.
Their review is here.

More and higher resolution in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 36

Foreign Born at the Mercury Lounge 7/30/09.

2009-07-31T12:19:00.001-04:00

Foreign Born played the Mercury Lounge 7/30/09.

This was a last minute show shooting for Venus Zine in a pinch.
Their review is here.

More photos in higher resolution in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 36

Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes, Rockin' the River cruise in NY Harbor on 7/30/09

2009-07-31T12:13:00.001-04:00

Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes played the Rockin' the River cruise in NY Harbor on 7/30/09.

This was the early show, leaving at 7 p.m. and docking back again close to 9.

They're still rocking hard after thirty years. Go see them if you can.

More and higher resolution in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 35

Last Minute Show!

2009-07-29T18:13:00.001-04:00

Going to see Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes tomorrow night on the Rockin' The River cruise early show.

I first saw Southside Johnny and the Jukes in 1977 when they played Union College and my girlfriend (now wife of 28 years) interviewed them for the school paper. They were a staple of the New Year's Eve parties my brother and I threw in the late 70's. We'd invite our two very different groups of friends and family and party all night in our parents' apartment in manhattan. Rock with th Southside, then R&B the rest of the night.

Haven't seen the band in about five years, so I've been whining about it for awhile. Now I can only whine about the cost of a ticket for a show on a boat...

Anyone else going?

Updates...

2009-07-22T19:37:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Dan at www.nyctaper.com for asking permission to use my photos on his site for the recordings of the Wilco/Yo La Tengo sets at Keyspan Park, Wilco at Dutchess Stadium and the Explosions in the Sky show from Summerstage. Follow the link above to get those recordings for yourself.

project(Red) is using one of my Gomez photos for the Gomez section of their (Red)Nights project.

Wilco will join Beck to cover Skip Spence for Beck's Record Club http://bit.ly/pfWX

The companion book to Amanda Palmer's album "Who Killed Amanda Palmer" has shipped. Neil Gaiman provided the stories to go with photos from a variety of photographers.

Wilco at Dutchess Stadium, Wappingers Falls, NY 7/18/09

2009-07-19T12:25:00.001-04:00

Wilco played the last show of their 2009 tour of minor league ballparks at Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls, NY on Saturday, 7/18/09.

Another all-around great show by the best rock band playing today. Not quite as captivating as the show with Yo La Tengo last Monday, but fun and a fitting end to their ballpark tour. Jef said they took a trick from Yo La Tengo and threw two baseballs out into the crowd. One signed by the band and one by the crew (he said the crew-signed one was more valuable).

Nels Cline again showed why he's one of the most highly-regarded rock and roll guitarists.

Pat Sansone added lots of sounds to the mix.

Glenn Kotche anchored the band as always.

Many more photos (and higher resolution) in my Flickr photoset. Don't miss them.

Show # 34

Wilco & Yo La Tengo at Keyspan Park, Coney Island 7/13/09

2009-07-15T09:43:00.001-04:00

Wilco & Yo La Tengo played tremendous sets at Keyspan Park, Coney Island on Monday, 7/13/09.

I'm away, so this entry is a placeholder until I can get home to pour through more unfortunately low-res point-and-shoot photos and get them posted here and on Flickr.

Leslie Fiest joined the band for a few songs. More in my Flickr photostream.

One of the highlights for me was 'Kidsmoke' with Yo La Tengo joining Wilco. Watching Nels Cline enjoying Ira Kaplan's playing was a blast!

Wilco will be playing in Wappingers Falls, a mere 90 minutes from NYC on Saturday the 18th. You should go...

Show # 33

Umphrey's McGee at Summerstage in Central Park 7/9/09

2009-07-10T13:22:00.001-04:00

Umphrey's McGee played Summerstage in Central Park 7/9/09.

They shredded and sang their way through a great set while the sun went down over Manhattan.

Don't miss these guys if you have a chance to see them.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 32

Explosions in the Sky at Summerstage 6/30/09.

2009-07-01T11:24:00.001-04:00

Explosions in the Sky played Central Park's Summerstage on 6/30/09.

It was their tenth anniversary as a band.

Don't miss them opening for The Flaming Lips later this summer. Should be a nice match.

More in my Flickr photoset.

Show # 31

Favorite artist updates...

2009-06-24T10:27:00.001-04:00

Regina Spektor's new album 'Far' was released on 6/23. Check it out, it's a great follow-up to 'Begin to Hope.'

Ingrid Michaelson tickets for a September 16th Webster Hall show go on sale Friday, 6/26/09. Her new album 'Everybody' will be released 8/25/09 and a single 'Maybe' on 7/14/09 on iTunes.

Tony Levin and his band Stickmen played Lost Horizon in Syracuse, NY on 6/19/09.

2009-06-22T14:12:00.001-04:00

Tony Levin and his band Stickmen played Lost Horizon in Syracuse, NY on 6/19/09.

Stick Men is:

Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto (ex. King Crimson) and Michael Bernier.

I found out about this show just a few hours before, so I didn't have the SLR. I've listened to, and loved, Tony's work for more years than I care to admit. What a treat to find a show when travelling. Thanks iPhone and the Where app.

Tony and Michael played the Chapman Sitck, an amazing instrument Levin has been playing for years.

This was an amazing show with a mixture of originals and King Crimson songs.

The Decemberists at Radio City Music Hall on 6/10/09.

2009-06-11T11:27:00.001-04:00

The Decemberists at Radio City Music Hall on 6/10/09. They played their new album "The Hazards of Love" in it's entirety as the first set.

Jenny Conlee began the show and the band slowly joined her onstage.

Colin Meloy playing the tour de force "The Hazards of Love."

More sizes on Flickr.

Show # 29

Phish at the Nokia Theater at Jones Beach 6/5/09

2009-06-07T19:03:00.001-04:00

The reformed Phish - Phish 3.0 - played the Nokia Theater at Jones Beach. This night, 6/5/09, was the last night of a three night run.

We even got at vacuum cleaner solo.

The left side of the stage was far more photo friendly.

More sizes on my Flickr photostream.

Another point-and-shoot camera show. Why, oh why won't they let us bring nice cameras?

Show # 28

Phish at Nokia Theater, Jones Beach NY 6/4/09

2009-06-05T11:29:00.001-04:00

The reformed Phish - Phish 3.0 - played the Nokia Theater at Jones Beach. This night, 6/4/09, was the second night of a three night run. The were as good as they were in their peak, the mid 90s. Maybe better.

Almost felt like I was in a time warp. They looked like they hadn't aged a bit.

Higher res versions in my Flickr set.

Not too bad for using the little point-and-shoot camera at a large venue.

Show # 27

Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman at Housing Works Bookstore and Cafe 6/3/09

2009-06-04T11:39:00.001-04:00

Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman appeared at Housing Works as part of Spin Magazine's "Liner Notes" series.

Amanda played both her piano and her ukelele.

Neil read his stories from the new "Who Killed Amanda Palmer"book.

Higher resolution versions in my Flickr photostream.

Show # 26

Katell Keineg at the Living Room in NYC 5/9/09

2009-05-10T16:27:00.001-04:00

The enigmatic Katell Keineg played a short, early set at the Living room in NYC on 5/9/09. More on my photoblog 50showsat50.

Only a few photos because she informed me she didn't want photography at the show. Hope she doesn't mind these few.

Larger photos on Flickr.

For more info, check out her website. Hope to see her again soon.

Show # 25

Junior Boys at Webster Hall 5/7/09

2009-05-08T11:09:00.001-04:00

The Junior Boys were at Webster Hall on 5/7/09.

Unfortunately, an equipment malfunction made them cancel the show after a few valiant attempts to fix the problem.

More photos from the aborted set on Flickr.

Show # 24

100 Bands in 100 Days Final show at Fontana's, 5/2/09

2009-05-04T12:33:00.001-04:00

Nick Sonderup celebrated the finale of his 100 Bands in 100 Days project at Fontana's on 5/2/09.

Nick even played with the band Right On Dynamite; a group he saw early in the project..

Anamanaguchi played accompanied by their Super NES console. Great instrumental band; check them out.

Takka Takka ended the show and the project with a spirited performance.

More on Flickr.

Show # 23

The Dead at the Izod Center 4/28/09

2009-04-29T09:38:00.001-04:00

The Dead played the Izod Center in Rutherford, NJ on 4/28/09.

This won't be much of a photoblog entry today. SLR's were prohibited and even though I had a great seat (thanks Jeff!) it was a bit far for a point and shoot camera to deliver good photos.

More photos possibly to come when I explore my other memory card...

Higher resolution versions on Flickr.

Show # 22

Colin Hay at the Ridgefield Playhouse 4/23/09

2009-04-24T11:32:00.001-04:00

Colin Hay played the Ridgefield Playhouse in Ridgefield CT on 4/23/09.

Accompanied by his wife Cecilia Noel, Colin sang and told stories all night.

He's a very engaging and funny entertainer. His new album 'Are You Looking At Me?' was released earlier in the spring.

Higher resolution pics are in my Flickr set.

Listen to 'Are You Lookin At Me?'

Show # 21

Lily Allen at Roseland Ballroom 4/20/09

2009-04-21T09:55:00.001-04:00

Lily Allen played the Roseland Ballroom in New York City on 4/20/09.

Everyone's into her song "Fuck you."

Check out Lily's website. She's a very active Twitter user.

Follow her feed; she gives away tickets for every show with a Twitter treasure hunt.

This is a small group of photographers for Lily...

See them in more detail in my Flickr set.

Listen to "Everyone's At It" from her latest Album 'It's Not Me, It's You."

Show # 20

Wilco Live ASHES OF AMERICAN FLAGS out on DVD

2009-04-15T20:32:00.001-04:00

Wilco's first live concert DVD is out! Filmed by Brendan Canty and Christoph Green, it's a wonderful look into a band that i think is the best rock band playing today (don't push me - I might make a more grandiose statement).

I have to run to watch a webcast they're doing right now. Find the link to the DVD on your own - I promise it will be worth it...

Umphrey's McGee at the Nokia Theater 4/11/09

2009-04-12T11:55:00.001-04:00

Umphrey's McGee played the second night of a two-show run at the Nokia Theater on 4/11/09.

Getting to see a band for a second night allows you to look for shots a bit differently.

Umphrey's McGee at the Nokia Theater 4/10/09

2009-04-11T12:35:00.001-04:00

Umphrey's McGee opened a two-night run at the Nokia Theater on 4/10/09.

The capacity crowd was treated to a special second set. The band played their new album Mantis in its entirety.

A cover of Pink Floyd's Comfortably Numb closed the show. More tomorrow night.

Umphrey's McGee are:

Brendan Bayliss (guitar, vocals
Jake Cinninger (guitar, synthesizers, vocals)
Joel Cummins (keyboards, vocals)
Andy Farag (percussion)
Kris Myers (drums, vocals)
Ryan Stasik (bass)

Gomez at Bowery Ballroom 3/31/09

2009-04-01T12:47:00.001-04:00

Gomez headlined at the Bowery Ballroom 3/31/09

Their new CD "A New Tide" was released the same day and they covered quite a few songs from the record.

Gomez are:

Ian Ball (Vocals, Guitar)
Ben Ottewell (Vocals Guitar)
Paul Blackburn (Bass)
Tom Gray (Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards)
Olly Peacock (Drums)

See higher resolution shots on Flickr.

Listen to "Airstream Driver"

Show # 17

Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears at Bowery Ballroom 3/31/09

2009-04-01T12:40:00.000-04:00

Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears at Bowery Ballroom 3/31/09

These guys played a great set. Of course, they were inspired...

See them in higher resolution on Flickr.

Show # 17

Andy Aledort & The Groove Kings at Northstar in Pound Ridge, NY 3/26/09

2009-03-27T10:21:00.001-04:00

Andy Aledort & Friends at Northstar in Pound Ridge, NY 3/26/09.

Andy has played with scores of rock legends and is an editor of Guitar World magazine.

Check out his website to read the accolades, get details of his Hendrix Tribute shows and see what he's up to next.

See them larger in my Flickr stream.

It was a challenging show to shoot with only ambient light.

Show #16

50showsat50 Wallpaper

2009-03-19T19:22:00.001-04:00

I've started making computer desktop wallpaper from some of the photos from the project's shows.

Download them here. If there are any other photos from the project you would like as a wallpaper, email me (with your desktop dimensions) and I'll see what I can do...

More photos added to the City Winery after-party set

2009-03-16T08:47:00.001-04:00

I added more photos from the after-party to my Flickr set.

Guster, The Apples in Stereo, The Feelies (with Peter Buck sitting in) and more of Mike Mills. See them in the Flickr slideshow on the post below, or even better use the link to see them larger on Flickr.

Ingrid Michaelson at City Winery 3/12/09

2009-03-13T10:08:00.002-04:00

Ingrid Michaelson and her band at City Winery 3/12/09

The night after her moving performance at the R.E.M. Tribute at Carnegie Hall, Ingrid brought the whole band to City Winery.

Ingrid by herself is a great artist, but she has surrounded herself with very talented people who complement her music perfectly.

Ingrid's band is:

Ingrid Michaelson -- vocals/piano
Allie Moss -- guitar/vocals
Elliot Jacobson -- drums
Chris Kuffner -- bass
Bess Rogers -- guitar

Bess Rogers

One of the highlights was Ingrid and Chris performing her amazing cover of R.E.M.'s Nighswimming. Here's their version from Later with Jools Holland.

Allie Moss

Sorry to Elliot Jacobson. Just never got a good shot of him all night.

Better viewed on Flickr.

Listen to 'Breakable'

Here's a video of Ingrid's cover of Nightswimming. This'll have to do until we get an official recording of Carnegie Hall.

Show # 15

R.E.M. Tribute after-party at City Winery 3/11/09

2009-03-12T14:24:00.001-04:00

Even more wonderful music was played at the after-party held at City Winery following the Carnegie Hall concert.

With performances by NJ band The Bongos, Glen Hansard, Guster and more, this was really a separate show.

It will take me some time to process all the great photos. Check back on the Flickr stream over the next few days for more.

The whole set will be in the Flickr set.

Show # 14

The Music of R.E.M. at Carnegie Hall

2009-03-12T13:27:00.001-04:00

The Music of R.E.M. at Carnegie Hall, 3/11/09

Michael Dorf of the Kintting Factory and the new City Winery put together this benefit concert for musical education programs.

Most of these shots were with my point and shoot, but I whipped the big camera out for the very end. After party shots are better and in another post.

Michael Stipe enjoyingPatti Smith

It was a wonderful night with tremendous performances of R.E.M. songs by a unique range of artists. Many played at the after party where I used my SLR, so their photos will appear in that post.

View on Flickr too.

Rolling Stone online has a small review that includes the setlist.

Show # 13

Missy Higgins at Terminal 5, 3/6/09

2009-03-07T19:16:00.003-05:00

Missy Higgins at Terminal 5, 3/6/09

I saw Missy open for Ben Folds in this same venue on 9/30/09. This time she was back headlining the show.

And she delivered a great performance that moved the crowd after a pretty long night of music. Highly recommended if you get a chance to see her.

Missy's website.

Her Myspace page.

A revealing interview from last year at AfterEllen.com.

And a recent interview on blogcritics.org.

Download computer wallpaper from the show on my Flickr set.

More on Flickr.

Ok, so something is wrong with the flash player I use to embed audio. Head back to one of my other Missy Higgins posts to hear some of her work.

Show #12

50showsat50 computer wallpaper

2009-03-07T19:12:00.000-05:00

I've started making computer desktop wallpaper from some of my favorite shots taken during the project.

Cruise on over here to download the ones you like. If there's a photo from one of the shows you would like formatted for your computer, just email me.

Justin Nozuka at Terminal 5, 3/6/09

2009-03-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

Justin Nozuka at Terminal 5, 3/6/09

Justin Nozuka was a big draw for much of the crowd at Terminal 5 Friday night.

Not quite my demographic. :) But he was earnest, played well and sounded good.

Justin's Myspace page.
His website.

More on Flickr.

Listen to "Golden Train"

Show # 12

Lenka at Terminal 5, 3/6/09

2009-03-07T12:43:00.004-05:00

Lenka played Terminal 5 on 3/6/09

Lenka was the opening act at Terminal 5 Friday, April 6th. She easily charmed the crowd and played a strong set of songs from her 2008 self-titled debut album.

It won't be long before she's headlining shows in New York City...

Check out Lenka's website.

"Lost at E Minor" has a good interview of Lenka.

The full set on Flickr.

Download computer wallpaper from the show on my Flickr set.

Listen to "The Show"

Show # 12

Anathallo at Mercury Lounge 3/4/09

2009-03-05T11:30:00.001-05:00

Anathallo at Mercury Lounge 3/4/09

Anathallo visited John Schaefer's WNYC radio show 'Soundcheck' the afternoon before this show. My wife and I decided to try to see them if the timing was right after Rufus Wainwright's Blackoutsabbath show. It was meant to be because we made it over to the Mercury Lounge with plenty of time to spare - and there were tickets available.

And it was well worth the effort. They played much of their new album 'Canopy Glow.' Check it out.

Anathallo on Myspace.

Flicker slideshow of the Anathallo show.

Mlive.com has a good story on the band.

Listen to "The River"

Show #11

Rufus Wainwright Family and Friends for Blackoutsabbath at City Winery 3/4/09

2009-03-05T10:05:00.001-05:00

Rufus Wainwright Family and Friends for Blackoutsabbath at City Winery 3/4/09

For a photoblog, this entry is going to be a big disappointment. This was an all acoustic, candle-lit show to promote Blackoutsabbath, an event to get people to think about their energy use and relation to the sustainability of the planet. For twelve hours on June 20th people are asked to gather with family and friends, turn off all electricity and make a kist of things to do in the coming year to reduce their impact on planet earth.

So I had my little point and shoot and just about no light to make it work. Use your imagination.

The show started with everyone coming out to sing acapella. Biggest surprise friend - David Byrne. The lineup also featured Teddy Thompson, Jenni Muldaur, Lucy Wainwright Roche and Sloan Wainwright. Even a few minutes of Janeane Garafalo.

Here are my pathetic shots.

Find out more from Blackoutsabbath's site

Better pics than mine by danback on Flickr. Helps to sit in the front row.

On Rufus' website message boards you can read about the setlist and Rufus' after show schmoozing.

Show #10

Thievery Corporation at Terminal 5 2/25/09

2009-02-26T13:40:00.001-05:00

Thievery Corporation at Terminal 5 2/25/09

Thievery Corporation played to an enthusiastic crowd at Terminal 5 on Wednesday night. You couldn't tell from the crowd that this show wasn't quite sold out. The small amount of room left over was used for dancing. Playing a set heavy on songs from their current album 'Radio Retaliation', Thievery exceeded all of my expectations - and having seen them before, they were high.

This was the best-sounding show I've seen at Terminal 5. In fact, it was probably the best-produced show at the venue. Their video and light setup filled the space as much as their thundering sound system. I couldn't crouch down very often in the photo pit because the bass was just too powerful, it made you queasy.

Thanks again to Thievery's guitar and sitar player Rob Myers for the royal treatment - tickets and passes for the VIP section and photo pit.

Jon Pareles of the New York TImes reviewed the next night's show.

Fujiya & Miyagi at Le Poisson Rouge 2/17/09

2009-02-18T17:48:00.002-05:00

Fujiya & Miyagi at Le Poisson Rouge 2/17/09

Fujiya and Miyagi were the headliners at Le Poisson Rouge on 2/17/09.

Slideshow

or see it on Flickr

Listen to "Ankle Injuries" by Fujiya & Miyagi

Show #8

School of Seven Bells at Le Poisson Rouge 2/17/09

2009-02-18T17:42:00.001-05:00

School of Seven Bells at Le Poisson Rouge 2/17/09

School of Seven Bells played the first set at Le Poisson Rouge on 2/17/09. I'm going to have to see these guys when I can get up front with the good camera and really experience their show.

The crowd thinned out considerably after their set.

School of Seven Bells are:

Alejandra Deheza on Guitar
Claudia Deheza on Keyboards
Benjamin Curtis on Guitars

My Flickr slideshow

or view them on Flickr

Listen to "imaundernodisguise" by School of Seven Bells

Show #8

Relentless7 with Ben Harper 2/17/09 at Highline Ballroom, NYC

2009-02-18T17:20:00.001-05:00

Ben Harper with Relentless7 at Highline Ballroom 2/17/09

Ben Harper's new project Relentless7 performed at the Highline Ballroom in NYC on 2/17/09. Without a photopass but with VIP seating (thanks Syd) I was able to get some good shots of the show.

Relentless fairly describes the energy and drive of this band. Don't miss them if you have the opportunity.

Relentless7 are:

Ben Harper - Slide Guitar, Vocals
Jason Mozersky - Lead Guitars
Jesse Ingalls - Bass, Keys
Jordan Richardson - Drums

or see the photos on Flickr.

Check out their website for info and audio at Relentless7

Show #7

Linfinity at Mercury Lounge 2/11/09

2009-02-12T11:16:00.001-05:00

Linfinity at Mercury Lounge 2/11/09

Linfinty played the Mercury Lounge on 2/11/09. I enjoyed the set and would love to hear more of them live.

Their new EP "Songs of the Weeping Willow" is available to download free on their website.

They're also on MySpace.

Linfinity are:

Dylan Von Wagner-vocals
Nick Hundley-bass
Russ Lemkin-drums
Josh Collins-guitar
Megan Leach-violin/viola

Flicker slideshow of Linfinity at Mercury Lounge 2/11/09

or see them on Flickr.

Listen to "Molly Mar of Rome" by Linfinity

Show #6

Lissy Trullie at Mercury Lounge 2/11/09

2009-02-12T10:47:00.001-05:00

Lissy Trullie at Mercury Lounge 2/11/09

Lissy Trullie played the Mercury Lounge in NYC for the release of her EP.

Check her out on Facebook, or MySpace.
Or read her blog

A slideshow of the set

or see Lissy Trullie 2/11/09 on Flickr

Listen to "Self-taught Learner" by Lissy

Show #6

The Fray at Webster Hall 2/4/09

2009-02-05T10:03:00.003-05:00

The Fray at Webster Hall 2/4/09

The Fray played Webster Hall in New York City on their 2009 club tour. The show was filmed by more than 5 cameras; bet there's a DVD in the works. They played a mix of new songs and material from their 2005 album "How to Save a Life."

No photo pass for this show, so the pics are all from my little point and shoot.

The Fray are:

Isaac Slade - Piano and Vocals
Joe King - Guitar and Vocals
Dave Welsh - Guitar
Ben Wysocki - Drums

also touring with The Fray are Dan Lavery on Bass.

Or you can view the photos on Flickr

Listen to "You Found Me"

Show #5

Gutbucket at Monkeytown 1/28/09

2009-01-29T19:28:00.001-05:00

Gutbucket premiered their new CD "A Modest Proposal" at Monkeytown in Williamsburg. Inviting lots of friends to help recreate the full, layered sound of the CD, the ensemble filled the intimate space of Monkeytown.

I discovered the band after seeing Ken Thomson play with World/Inferno Friendship Society. Ken is a talented, animated musician that always seems to deliver - live or or on CD. Listening to "A Modest Proposal" did not disappoint.

My Flickr set of Gutbucket's CD premier of "A Modest Proposal" at Monkeytown 1/28/09

Gutbucket is:

Ty Citerman - guitar
Adam D Gold - drums
Eric Rockwin - bass
Ken Thomson - saxophone

Friends playing at the premier included:

Sara Phillips Budde and Alex Hamlin, winds
Eyal Maoz, guitar
Tom Gavin, guitar and bass
Jordan Shapiro, guitar and keys
Greta Gertler, keys
Jody Redhage, cello
Peter Wise, vibes

with live visuals by R. Luke DuBois

Show #4

Ra Ra Riot at Bowery Ballroom 1/22/09

2009-01-23T13:17:00.002-05:00

Ra Ra Riot played the Bowery Ballroom 1/22/09 at Planned Parenthood of New York's Third Annual "Roe on the Rocks" Benefit.

Their rocking set covered material from their Latest album 'The Rhumb Line."

Ra Ra Riot are Milo Bonacci, Alexandra Lawn, Wesley Miles, Mathieu Santos, and Rebecca Zeller and Gabriel Duquette.

They'll be back in NYC March 5th. I'll update the blog when I know the details. I plan to be there.

My Flickr set is here.

Listen to Ra Ra Riot's "Dying is Fine" from 'The Rhumb Line'

Show #3

Regina Spektor at Bowery Ballroom 1/22/09

2009-01-23T13:07:00.003-05:00

Regina Spektor was the headliner for Planned Parenthood's Third Annual Roe on the Rocks - A Benefit for Planned Parenthood of New York City.

Playing an eclectic set that her loyal fans loved, Regina showed why she's a rising star (in spite of needing her fan's help with some lyrics).

Listen to Regina Spektor's "Better" from 'Begin to Hope'

Show #3

Wonderful Wilco show soundboards are available

2009-01-15T19:18:00.001-05:00

The Wilco show from 12/6/08 at Auditorium Theater in Rochester, NY is available online.

Photo by Scott Ferraro on Flickr, thanks Scott. Scott let me use this photo from his Flickr set for the album art on my MP3 rip.

Grab this show here.

The World/Inferno Friendship Society at Webster Hall 1/9/09

2009-01-10T14:44:00.003-05:00

The World/Inferno Friendship Society billed this as the New York premier of "Addicted to Bad Ideas" their latest album.

The show lived up to the description of their shows as "Punk Cabaret." The full album was played interspersed with vignettes of the life of Peter Lorre and some his contemporaries. I'd try and describe what this band does, but I think its better left to others. Ben Sisario profiled the band and this show in this 'New York Times' piece on 1/9/09.

A shorter, more raucous set followed "Addicted to Bad Ideas." The crowd surfing and stage diving intensified and the fans had Webster Hall's floor moving for much of the set. Take a look at the rest of my photos to get a sense for the drama of the evening.

My World/Inferno Flickr set

The lineup of this ensemble is fluid. Last night consisted of:

Jack Terricloth Emcee and vocals. I bought his book; loving it...

Sandra Malak on Bass.

Ken Thomson on Baritone saxophone.

Peter Hess on Tenor Sax.

Maura Corrigan on Alto Sax.

Brian Viglione (of The Dresden Dolls) on drums.

Raja Azar on keyboards.

Lucky Strano on guitar.

- World/Inferno Friendship Society's Official Site.

Show #2

Missy Higgins tickets on sale 1/8/09

2009-01-05T13:47:00.004-05:00

Tickets for Missy Higgins' 3/6/09 show at Terminal 5 go on sale this Thursday, 1/8/09 at Noon.

Update: Bought tickets

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. I saw her open for Ben Folds in September. Can't wait to see her as a headliner.

Listen to "Scar"

Ingrid Michaelson at Town Hall 12-18-08

2008-12-21T12:49:00.025-05:00

Ingrid_Michaelson w Uke 12-18-08
Originally uploaded by OpenEye

So I'm starting the official 50showsat50 year six weeks before my 50th Birthday with this show. Whereever I can I'll post my own photos like this one.

I discovered Ingrid Michaelson just a couple of weeks ago. I'm a subscriber to RadioIO on the net, and kept hearing her and thinking "I like this." I bought "Be Ok" and within a day added "Girls and Boys."

Her Holiday Hop '08 was going to be the last show before she took a break from a year and a half of touring and I jumped on the last official tickets available. Ticketmaster's 'TicketsNow' premium seating. I paid a lot, but ended up front row center. Won't be able to go to a lot of shows buying tickets this way.

Ingrid is a great performer. Comfortable in her own skin and very entertaining even when she's not singing. She has assembled a great band whose playing and singing complement her voice perfectly. They are:

Allie Moss - Guitar/Vocals

Bess Rogers - Guitar

Chris Kuffner - Bass/Vocals

Elliot Jacobson - Drums

-Ingrid Michaelson's official site

- You can hear her for yourself. NPR and WXPN are streaming a show.

- Don't miss this nice review at Venuszine

Listen to "Breakable"

More photos from this show in my Flickr stream

Show #1

Wilco / Neil Young at Madison Square Garden 12/15/08

2008-12-21T12:27:00.010-05:00

Wilco 12/15/08Originally uploaded by muzikspy

I was already seriously considering this 50showsat50 idea when I decided to head into the city and see if I could pick up a ticket to see Wilco supporting Neil Young at Madison Square Garden.

I think Wilco is the best working rock band right now and I hate to know I missed one of their area shows. Even though I don't enjoy arena shows anymore, I really wanted to be there. And Neil Young was one of the artists of my youth that I had somehow managed to miss.

So I picked up somebody's extra and ended up in nosebleed seats surrounded by other Wilco fans.

Thanks to muzikspy for this nice photo of Jeff Tweedy that night (taken from where I SHOULD have been standing).

Listen to "Impossible Germany"

The last two months...

2008-12-21T12:09:00.004-05:00

Fall of 2008 has been a great time for shows.

Photos by Jennifer Pollock

It started with Ben Folds at Terminal 5 with the bonus of seeing Missy Higgins, someone whose name I had heard and meant to check out but hadn't. Then it was a pretty new NYC band School of Seven Bells. The following Friday I was back at Webster Hall to see the amazing Amanda Palmer (of the Dresden Dolls) with the usual entourage of artists she brings along. By the time I saw Grace Potter and the Nocturnals at Webster Hall, I was wondering if they sold season tickets...

WTF...?

2008-12-21T11:36:00.012-05:00

50 shows in a year, am I nuts?

I mean, it would be one thing if I still lived in Manhattan, but it's been twenty-six years since I moved to Westchester County. So the time commitment will be considerable.

And what will it cost? Having grown up in New York City I was raised as a driver. Around the city you mostly took mass transit, but in and out of the city? You drove. Couple that impulse with the late hours of some shows, and the MTA becomes less of an option. So gas, tolls and parking will add up. Tickets won't be so bad since most of the artists I like are playing the smaller, less expensive venues.

Well, okay, I probably am nuts. But what a wonderful set of symptoms! To have a built-in excuse to see great artists and new ones at one of the most exciting stages of their career. And who doesn't like blowing out of work early (to avoid traffic).

I'm not sure what form these posts will take or even if any of them will be worth reading. I'll bring some camera to every show. Whenever possible I'll bring my Canon 30D SLR, the fallback will be my Canon PowerShot SD700 IS point and shoot and the last resort is my iPhone. This may end up as more of a photoblog than anything else.

So I guess I'm going to do this. The blog is live; let the 50 shows begin.