SubCulture

This is the official blog of SubCulture, a music and performance venue at 45 Bleecker Street in downtown Manhattan. For event tickets, calendars, and venue information, visit our website.

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SubCulture Take 5 / Julie Feeney

Julie Feeney's sell-out shows on both sides of the Atlantic have received rave reviews, whether solo, with ensemble, with choirs or with full orchestra, and she composes, arranges and orchestrates all of her own music. Her three albums have been internationally critically acclaimed and her opera ‘BIRD’ goes into full production in 2016. She has created a whole host of stunning music videos for her songs and she collaborates with fashion designers to create special costumes and headpieces for every show. She performs at SubCulture with her New York based 6 piece ensemble. See Julie in our space Thursday and Friday this week for four intimate performances. Tickets are $30 in advance and can be purchased by clicking the links below. VIP meet-and-greet tickets are also available. 

9/4 at 7:30pm and 10:00pm 9/5 at 7:30pm and 10:00pm

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Julie Feeney: I never thought about it whatsoever, I knew from a very early age that it was what I wanted to be. I wanted to do other things as well but it was always my intention to come back to music. I was a magician for a while for example including other things and I still like to feel like I am a magician on stage weaving spells. It should really be part of my job.

SC: So I guess that might answer our next question, but what is your secret talent/party trick? 

JF: Unravelling intricate puppet strings

SC: Maybe not! But that is a talent! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now? 

JF: Back again to Beethoven. Keep coming back!

SC: What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)? 

JF: I have the teenchiest little toenail you could imagine. It's been described as an excuse for a toenail.

SC: What was the first concert you ever went to? 

JF: I remember going to Annie in London when I was extremely small.

BONUS

SC: Describe your first live performance. 

JF: I just remember performing in my home from the age of 3 or 4.

SC: Do you have a pre-show ritual?

JF: I can hardly talk to anyone and I get incredibly nervous. As much isolation and silence as possible is most desire able to me. I once hid in a toilet for 90 minutes in London before a show to escape some extremely lovely people who wanted to hang out. I just couldn't do it though I felt really bad.

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now?

JF: You will hear some of my opera 'BIRD'.

Thank you for answering our #Take5 questions, Julie! We're so excited to have you in our room!

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SubCulture Take 5 / Jonatha Brooke

Jonatha Brooke has been writing songs, making records and touring since her early days in Boston with her band The Story. In 1995, Ms. Brooke released the first of two solo albums on MCA/Universal, Plumb, followed by Ten Cent Wings in 1997. In 1999 she started her own independent label, Bad Dog Records, and has since released seven more albums, followed by writing for four Disney films, has had songs included in many television shows, and recently co-wrote songs for Katy Perry and The Courtyard Hounds. In February 2014, her one-woman musical play, My Mother Has 4 Noses, opened Off-Broadway at The Duke on 42nd Street to rave reviews, and has three other musicals in the works. 

Catch her in our space on Thursday, 8/14 at 8pm. Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased here. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Jonatha Brooke: Probably Professor Reck at Amherst College. Composition 101. I had always played and sung. But WRITING? that was the lightning bolt. And he gave me a full course credit to write and produce an evening’s worth of original songs. I got an A.

SC: Nicely done! What is your secret talent/party trick? 

JB: I can ride a unicycle and do a really annoying imitation of a jazz trumpet solo. On a good night, I can do both at the same time.

SC: Please tell us you will be doing some iteration of that on Thursday?! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now? 

JB: I just heard this band Johhny Swim and they knocked me out! 

SC: They're fantastic! What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)? 

JB: I am obsessed with waltzes. In fact it is a struggle to write in any other time signature. Why do we really ever need 4 beats a measure??

SC: Amen, sister. What was the first concert you ever went to? 

JB: Jerry Garcia. I was in high school. And I wasn’t a stoner, so I really really didn’t get what the hell the hoopla was about.

BONUS

SC: Describe your first live performance. 

JB: My first gig was a three song slot at the "Iron Horse Coffeehouse" in Northampton, MA. I was still in college. Terrified. Made the mistake of having some wine before we started. I remember getting lost in the second verse of “love is more thicker than forget” (my very first song). I’m not very good at picking up a song in the middle. So I had to keep starting over. Needless to say, I never drink before a show.

SC: Good thinking. Do you have a pre-show ritual? 

JB: I usually stretch. Just yoga-y things. For some reason I never got into the vocal warm up ritual until my Off-Broadway show….(My Mother Has 4 Noses) - 7 shows a week seemed way more serious than a normal JB tour! So I thought I’d better do what the pros do. I have to say, I’m on the fence about whether it made a difference. Soundcheck is my real barometer. I’ve also gotten WAY less superstitious over the years about dairy, caffeine, chocolate etc…. If you’re limber and ready to sing, you’re ready to sing..

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now?

JB: I am working on a new musical called “QUADROON” with Joe Sample. Epic. Gorgeous. Soulful. I’m so very proud of these songs. I may chat about it. But “4 Noses” is still near and dear, so I’ll definitely be doing a few of those songs. Then there are three other musicals in various stages of completion. Suddenly, musical theatre is my bag. Who knew??

SC: We're truly thrilled to hear it. What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour? 

JB: I still love the road, as awful and grueling as it can be physically. It really is like running away with the circus. You’re in a bit of a carefree bubble, and everything revolves around… YOU. The hardest part is the re-entry slump. All of a sudden, it’s reality-you again, the laundry, the bills, the day to day drudgery. God bless my husband for putting up with transitional Jonatha. Gotta love a supportive spouse!  Thank you for answering our #Take5 questions! We're so excited to have you in our room!

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SubCulture Take 5 / The Scarlet K

SubCulture hosts The Scarlet K’s debut performance on Wednesday, August 13th. The Brooklyn based indie folk band fuses a number of different sounds ranging from bluegrass to Southern gospel.

The Scarlet K is made up of talented musicians harmoniously playing a wide variety of instruments including the ukulele, piano, trumpet, woodwinds, fiddle, guitar, banjo, trombone, drums, cello, and tuba. Don’t miss out on this unique mixture of sounds! 

The show will start at 8:00pm and tickets will be $12, purchase here. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

The Scarlet K: I grew up singing a cappella Southern gospel hymns in a small religious sect in Virginia, and have been harmonizing since I was about 4 years old. Everybody I knew sang together three times a week, sometimes more just for fun. I couldn't get enough and I knew all of the hymns by number. By the time I was 7, I felt a huge urge to learn what to do with a piano, and I became a band kid in middle school. It just always fit.

SC: Inspiring indeed! What is your secret talent/party trick? 

TSK: I make a great Pimm's cup.

SC: Delicious party trick! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now? 

TSK: Right now? I've been belatedly getting into tUnE-yArDs. I bonded pretty heavily years ago with Paul Simon's music, Patty Griffin, and the Indigo Girls, so have really enjoyed all of the great indie-folk coming out in recent years: Fleet Foxes, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Lumineers. And if we're going orchestral, it's John Adams and Charles Ives. 

SC: What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)? 

TSK: I have a degree in French horn.

SC: Whoa, that is incredible! What was the first concert you ever went to? 

TSK: James Taylor at the Nissan Pavilion! I was probably the only 11 year old in the audience singing along. Oh wait, there was also New Kids on the Block. But does that count? I was really only there for Joey Joe McIntyre.

BONUS

SC: Of course it does, we all fangirl sometimes! Describe your first live performance. 

TSK: In the classical world, recitals and ensemble concerts are so routine I can't even remember the first one. But there were many. So very many. It's a different thing now to be performing my own original music, fronting a band. In that case, this debut at SubCulture will be our first live performance. Hang on to your hat.

SC: Hat is secured. Do you have a pre-show ritual? 

TSK: I move around a lot. Dancing helps me cope with nerves. I'll probably be blasting 'Waka Waka' and jumping around like a maniac. And drinking out of my special polka-dotted glass. It's like my safety cup.

SC: Are we invited? Do you have anything new in the works right now?

TSK: You'll be hearing all of it. This show features my debut collection of songs, plus some special a cappella hymns. While not theatrical, the show is loosely a 'coming of age' memoir. It's the story of growing up in this sect with all of the music and family around me, leaving, losing that world, and gaining a new one, finding my voice.

SC: We're truly thrilled to hear it. What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour? 

TSK: I'd love to tour. For now, we're really grateful and honored that SubCulture picked us and is presenting this debut. We're a big group - 12 folks - so it's awesome that SubCulture can make the space for us and let us make our noise.

It's our pleasure to have you! Thank you The Scarlet K for answering our #Take5 questions! We're proud to host your debut performance.

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SubCulture Take 5 / Anthony Strong

Brilliant jazz singer and pianist, Anthony Strong, stops by SubCulture on August 12! The international success (Strong performed to millions live on German television and was featured on the front page of France’s biggest daily newspaper, Le Figaro) brings his crooning voice to the grand old USA! 

His EP reached #1 on the UK Jazz charts, and his debut album Stepping Out released in April of 2013. You won’t want to miss this jazz star while he’s in town.

The show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets will be $15 in advance and $20 day of the performance. Purchase here! 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Anthony Strong: Lots of people inspired me. I had some amazing teachers when I was young who turned me on to some great ideas about music - and some great musicians. Those musicians would include a whole range of people; Harry Connick, Take 6, Nancy Wilson, Chet Baker, Burt Bacharach, Stevie Wonder, Danny Elfman, Sting, Diana Krall...

SC: What is your secret talent/party trick?

AS: I can do a pretty awesome magic trick with a napkin at a dinner table. DISCLAIMER: this is anything but awesome, please don't ask me to do this!

SC: What if we ask really politely with puppy eyes? Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

AS: It's not really related to my thing but I really love the band Haim. They sound incredible live and their songs are like classic 80's anthems written in the modern day.

SC: They are hard not to enjoy. What was the first concert you ever went to?

AS: My first jazz gig was at a club in Chelsea [London, UK]. It was this fiery, Latin 7-piece band, playing salsa and they were the real deal!! My parents picked me up - I was really too young to be there, but it was an experience that definitely stays with me to this day.

SC: Sounds like an awesome first concert. Do you have a pre-show ritual?

AS: Not really. I mean I try and get lots of sleep and be well rested, I do a warm up for about 20-30mins, some stretches before I go on, then I'm good to go! There's nothing crazy like, I don't know, bathing in milk... or whatever...

BONUS

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

AS: I'm in the middle of recording a big band album that should be out early 2015. And it's sounding hot if I do say so myself! I might give a little preview of one tune - but I'm meant to be keeping it under wraps..!

SC: Intrigue! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

AS: Travelling is pretty hard work - it's just so tiring. But you know, when it gets hard, I just think of what I get to do once I've reached my destination - then I remember 'actually this job is incredible -stop complaining!'.

That's a good mentality to have. Thank you Anthony Strong for answering our #Take5 questions! It's a pleasure to have you perform at SubCulture!

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SubCulture Take 5 / Jason Robert Brown

We at SubCulture are proud to welcome Jason Robert Brown to our stage on August 4th. Jason is a world renowned composer, lyricist, conductor, arranger, orchestrator, director and performer. He’s best known for his scores to several famed musicals, including “Songs of a New World” to “Parade”, which won the Tony Award in 1999 for Best Original Music Score. Considered by the New York Times to be “a leading member of a new generation of composers...,” Jason has sold out shows around the world both as a soloist and with his band The Caucasian Rhythm Kings.   

Because of popular demand, a second performance was added to the evening! Buy your tickets for this special intimate experience at 7:30pm or 10:30pm. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Jason Robert Brown: I’m not sure there is a “who.” I was drawn to making music before I could form words; I was always taking pots and pans out of the cabinets and playing them with wooden spoons or whatever implement was to hand. The minute a piano materialized in front of me, I began banging on it. If the question is Who gave me the courage to decide to spend my life making music?, well, there are probably three people to name: Bruce Sacks, who was a pianist and arranger at the summer camp I attended from the time I was 11 years old (and is now the only pediatrician I know with perfect pitch and awesome sight-reading chops); Gene Minor, who conducted the Bergen Youth Orchestra and directed the plays at my high school, and who held music in such high regard that it felt like a gift to be able to make it; and Pat McDowell, my high school choir teacher, a salty old jazz broad who lived and breathed music and constantly pushed me to be better at it. 

SC: What a great story! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

JRB: You know, it’s been Paul Simon for a long time, and it’s still Paul Simon, because who’s better than Paul Simon?  There’s a song on “You’re The One” called “Girl With A Necklace of Tears” that just breaks my heart every time.  You want someone who’s really smart, really connected emotionally, and really committed to making beautiful music, then you want Paul Simon.  Or I guess you want Joni Mitchell, which is an equally acceptable choice.

SC: Doesn't get better than Paul Simon sometimes. What was the first concert you ever went to?

JRB: Pete Seeger sang at my elementary school when I was a kid.  I loved it.  I kept hoping he’d sing “This Land Is Your Land,” which he didn’t, but he did a song called “Garbage,” which he taught us all so we could sing along.

SC: Awesome! We had Toshi Reagon (his goddaughter) in the room not too long ago, and heard lots of great Pete stories. Can you describe your first live performance?

JRB: My mom tells a story about my first piano recital, where I was mugging constantly on the bench and getting a lot of laughs.  I don’t entirely remember that, but it seems likely.  I do remember playing a talent show at summer camp when I was 11 – I had written a song called “Dreams” (a gospel waltz, if you were wondering) which I sang at the piano, but the piano was an enormous upright that was mostly offstage, so the audience just saw half of the back of the piano and heard me squeaking out some nonsensical lyrics while the chords clanged on and on.  I had a cassette of that performance for a long time, and I was always surprised to hear cheers and applause at the end of the song – what could they have been responding to?  I guess it was just that I was a tiny 11-year-old who made lots of big noises.

SC: And look where you are now! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

JRB: Dinner after the show.  In virtually every city in the United States that’s not New York, by the time the show is over and the autographs are signed and the dressing room is vacated, all the restaurants are closed and you’re stuck with whatever was in the gift basket that the promoter left at your hotel.  Frishberg has a sensational song about it called “Sweet Kentucky Ham.”  Luckily, I don’t go on the road that often anymore. 

Luckily there will be plenty of eateries still open - even after your late set! Thank you Jason Robert Brown for answering our #Take5 questions. We're honored to have you at SubCulture!

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SubCulture Take 5 / Karen Mantler

Jazz pop instrumentalist and talented vocalist, Karen Mantler, is hitting the stage at SubCulture on Thursday, July 31st. Throughout the years her unique sound has brought her into contact with world-class musicians including Steven Berstein, Eric Mingus, Hiram Bullock and Arturo O’Farrill. Mantler will be joining us to release her new album Business is Bad. Accompanying her on stage will be bassist Kato Hideki and composer/arranger Doug Wieselman. 

Come out for a unique experience, performance starts at 8:00pm! You can purchase tickets here. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Karen Mantler: I didn't decide to become a musician. I was born that way. Both of my parents are musicians.

SC: Love that thought. What is your secret talent/party trick?

KM: I am really good at making boxes out of paper. Concert posters make the best ones.

SC: Never heard that one! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

KM: Robert Wyatt will always be my favorite, but Miley Cyrus is pretty good too.

SC: Nice! What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

KM: That I make boxes out of concert posters? 

SC: Touché. What was the first concert you ever went to?

KM: When I was 3 months old I went to the Berlin Jazz Festival with Jazz Realities, but I didn't get to see the concert because my mother checked me at the cloak room.

BONUS

SC: That is both a shame and one of the cuter things we've ever heard. Describe your first live performance.

KM: When I was 9 years old I played the first improvised clarinet solo in the history of the Phoenicia elementary school.

SC: Lovely! Do you have a pre-show ritual?

KM: I make sure I haven't forgotten to bring my music or put on my clothes. 

SC: Always good things to check. Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

KM: My new CD was just released and I will be playing it in its entirety.

SC: We can't wait! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

KM: Staying clean and getting fed.

Thank you to the awesome Karen Mantler for answering our #Take5 questions! We can't wait for the show!

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SubCulture Take 5 / Allison Adams Tucker

Contemporary jazz artist, Allison Adams Tucker, is coming to SubCulture to release her second CD April in Paris. The multilingual singer focuses on new beginnings from around the globe. Her unique sound has led her to regularly perform in a variety of places varying from Japan to Mexico. Her debut CD Come With Me received international acclaim and was played on radio stations in 18 different countries.

Her performance starts at 8:00pm. Get your tickets here!

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician? 

Allison Adams Tucker: My parents were my original source of musical inspiration, but to be honest- I can't remember actually "becoming" a musician. It is something I feel I've always been. I have had a few careers in my life, and my most recent move back to music as a full-time income was inspired by a dismal existence in a very NON-musical bureaucratic work environment. I followed my heart back to what makes me happiest. Inspiration comes from surprising places.

SC: That's amazing. Do you have a secret talent/party trick? 

AAT: My "gum smile". Despite a big set of chompers, I can smile with only my upper gums showing. A real crowd pleaser. :D

SC: Maybe just not at a retirement home...What/Who is your favorite song/band/artist right now? 

AAT: Brazilian singer Tatiana Parra, now living in LA. Incredible phrasing and rhythm, lightning fast vocal flexibility and accuracy, and a really cool chick.

SC: Lovely. What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)? 

AAT: I was allergic to all fish and poultry until I was 35. The allergy suddenly went away while I was living in Japan.

SC: That's convenient! What was the first concert you ever went to? 

AAT: I went to symphony concerts and musicals earlier but my first pop/rock concert: Andy Gibb and the Bee Gees. I was 9.

BONUS

SC: Describe your first live performance. 

AAT: 3 years old for my first tap dance performance. At 4 years old I began singing in the church children's choir. 6 years old I had my first solo in the school talent show while playing the auto-harp.

SC: Busy little artist! Do you have a pre-show ritual?

AAT: My fave yoga stretches, breathing exercises, Facebook & Twitter fix, a good laugh.

SC: Good choices. Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture? 

AAT: My latest addition is a song written by Argentinian composer Carlos Aguirre. A very fast "milonga" not intended for vocalizing, but oh so cool with the voice. Probably the most difficult song I've learned to date. (A real challenge for the pianist, too.)

SC: We can't wait to hear it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour? 

AAT: Getting enough sleep to keep my voice healthy. Also, the terrific back up of emails I can't respond to properly until I go home. There just aren't enough hours in a day when you're on tour.

We hope you'll be well rested for the show at SubCulture! Thank you Allison Adams Tucker for answering our #Take5 questions! 

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SubCulture Take 5 / Jeffrey Gaines

Jeffrey Gaines’ love for music began while playing in local garage bands covering songs from classic rock bands such as The Who and The Kinks. Eventually, just his voice and guitar led him to a record deal in 1992. Not only has Gaines released five studio albums since then, but also he has gained notoriety from the Boston Globe and Rolling Stone while being described as “the voice of a new generation.” Winner of 6 Toronto Music Awards, Clara Lofaro, will be hitting the stage as well.

Gaines is known for his spectacular live performances so come check him out at SubCulture on 7/18. The show begins at 8pm. Get your tickets here.

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

Jeffrey Gaines: I was inspired by my family to become a musician. I was the youngest in a household of music lovers. So, looking up to them and adopting their interests, I developed and honed the skills and abilities of a singer and musician. I saw at a very early age that these abilities were greatly prized by my immediate family and the whole wide world.

SC: Very cool. What is your secret talent/party trick?

JG: Party tricks, I've yet to develop any as my need to have all eyes on me is more than satisfied through my work. I leave the entertaining at parties to the people who don't entertain for a living. At parties, I am the audience to all of life's performers.

SC: Makes sense. What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

JG: Song: "Fancy" by Iggy Azalea.

Band: Daft Punk.

Artist: Die Antwoord.

RIGHT NOW!!!

SC: Great choices. What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

JG: What wacky..?

Who's wacky..?

The most wacky thing about me is how unwacky I am.

JG, woefully wackyless.

SC: What was the first concert you ever went to?

JG: I don't recall the first concert that I went to. But I remember that it was there at concert, that I was able to lose myself in the experience. The one thing that all of the concerts I went to shared was escapism. For the audience as well as the band. That's the thing I love the most about concerts. And unfortunately the one thing I have been unable to provide in my concerts. No money to put on a show. No smoke, no lights, no pyro. not a single luxury, like Robinson Caruso, it's primitive as can be.

BONUS:

SC: Nice! Describe your first live performance. (was it a school talent show? local battle of the bands? open mic at a coffeehouse?)

JG: It was a junior high school talent show. It was a thrill to be up there. And it was confirmed for me that I had arrived at the right place. Reference The Replacements song: Talent Show.

SC: Awesome! Do you have a pre-show ritual?

JG: None whatsoever.

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

JG: I have a lot of new things. But nothing in the work$. Yes!! Absolutely you will hear a great deal of it at SubCulture.

SC: We can’t wait to hear it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour? 

JG: When you're on tour the only bad thing is when someone tells you that the tour must end. Last day of a tour is the worst thing. Ending a tour is the hardest part. I suppose that relates back to the escapism that music has always been for me. And may the road go on forever... forever chasing that illusive perfect note. I'll see you soon.

You're a true performer. Thank you Jeffrey Gaines for answering our #Take5 Questions! We’re looking forward to the show! 

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SubCulture Take 5 / Alyssa Robbins

Alyssa Robbins is coming to SubCulture this Friday to release her third studio album, Our Time Was Here We Just Forgot to Be. Robbins is a genuine storyteller through her music, from tales of dark Brooklyn streets to changing seasons,  she is able to capture a moment in each song with her amazing songwriting ability. Starting off the night is Julia Weldon, a fantastic indie-folk singer/songwriter who will be performing from her latest album Light is a Ghost.

The performance starts at 8:00pm. General Admission is $13 but make sure to grab both a ticket and a copy of Robbins’ newest album for just $18! Buy your tickets here. 

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SubCulture: What is your secret talent/party trick?

Alyssa Robbins: My secret talent or party trick is that I can play any song with a pen on my teeth.

SC: Sounds painful, yet intriguing...What was the first concert you ever went to?

AR: The first concert I went to was Peter, Paul, and Mary.

SC:  That is fantastic. Describe your first live performance. (was it a school talent show? local battle of the bands? open mic at a coffeehouse?)

AR: My first performance was at church with my brother and sister.  We sang a song from Oliver.

SC: Very cute. Do you have a pre-show ritual?

AR: My pre-show ritual...whiskey.

SC: May we suggest the local Widow Jane Whiskey? Do you have anything new in the works right now?

AR: New thing in the works is a tour this fall.

We wish the best of luck for you on your tour! Thank you Alyssa Robbins for answering our #Take5 questions! We're excited to have you at SubCulture.

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SubCulture Take 5 / Grayson Hugh and Polly Messer

For decades, Grayson Hugh has been attracting audiences around the globe with his profound piano and singing abilities. His career began in an Upper East Side elevator where he met music producer Michael Baker. The conversation they had eventually led to Hugh’s debut album, Blind to Reason, which went Gold in the U.S. and overseas. From there on, Hugh’s talent was recognized across the board as Hollywood Director Ridley Scott requested the use of his songs in the 1991 film “Thelma and Louise.” Hugh and his talented wife make their return to SubCulture on Thursday! The show begins at 8:00pm and tickets can be purchased here!

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?  

Grayson Hugh: In this order: Edvard Grieg, Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, The Everly Brothers, The Beatles.

SC: Classics! What is your secret talent/party trick?

GH: Disappearing.

SC: Well we hope you don't do that on Thursday! Unless being a magician is all part of your act. What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

GH: I almost became a doctor, but opted for the much more financially stable occupation of musician.

SC: Just goes to show you're a dedicated artist. What was the first concert you ever went to?

GH: At age 5, "Peter and The Wolf", The Hartford Symphony, with my father Ivor Hugh narrating.

SC: Awesome! Describe your first live performance. (was it a school talent show? local battle of the bands? open mic at a coffeehouse?)

GH: A club performance with my band The Last Five at The No Name Cafe, in Hartford, Connecticut. I was the lead singer and Vox Continental Organ player, but only 15 years old, so they had to sneak me in and out the back door.

SC: Amazing! Do you have a pre-show ritual?

GH: Being alone.

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

GH: Yes. I am going to record a new album in the coming months - at Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. It will be a return to my strictly soul roots, and feature some surprise guest artists playing with me. I'll be previewing some of the new songs at the SubCulture show on July 10th.

SC: We're looking forward to it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

GH: The rarity of good coffee. The first thing I do in a new city is locate the Starbucks so I can get my beloved French Roast. I used to have my tour bus driver stop at 2am at 24 hour Krogers so I could get French Roast beans and spring water! When Polly and I were in Poland on tour in 2012, even though we didn't speak the language, we managed to find a Starbucks in pretty much very city we played. In Krakow, we walked about ten miles to get to one mall that had two. We went to both!

Who doesn't love a good coffee! Thank you, Grayson, for taking the time to answer our #Take5 questions! We're looking forward to an amazing show.

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SubCulture Take 5 / Toshi Reagon and BigLovely

As a singer, composer, musician, curator and producer, Toshi Reagon can do it all. Having played in Carnegie Hall, the Paris Opera House, and Madison Square Garden, Toshi’s powerful performances have been recognized around the world. With the simple mission to unite people with her music, you can even find Toshi at a festival or intimate venue. Joining Toshi is her wonderful band, BIGLovely.

The performance begins at 7:30pm! Buy your tickets here. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician? 

Toshi Reagon: I have been a musician most of my life- I was born into a musical family and my mom says I started singing at age 3.

SC: Adorable! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now? 

TR: I love Meshell Ndegeocello, Janelle Monae, old school Prince/Sade- old old school Big Mama Thorton, sister Rosetta Thorpe.

SC: We caught Janelle at Celebrate Brooklyn, it was amazing. What was the first concert you ever went to? 

TR: My Mom. Then KISS - I love Kiss

SC: That's sweet and quite the variety...Do you have a pre-show ritual? 

TR: Circle with my peeps remind them to have fun and take care of each other- and we say how we are so glad we play music. Then some peppermint oil in the hands- inhale and Rock!

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture? 

TR: New record coming so yes new songs- The Opera Zinnias- The Life of Clementine Hunter, That I co wrote the Libretto for with my mom is starting to tour internationally. It is directed by Robert Wilson, I am the Music Director and my band is the orchestra. 

We're looking forward to hearing it all! Thank you so much for taking the time to hang with us for our #Take5 It's a pleasure to have you at SubCulture. 

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SubCulture Take 5 / Norma Winstone

London born jazz artist, Norma Winstone, is releasing her 2014 album Dance Without Answer on our stage this Wednesday, June 25th. Joining her is her trio including Italian pianist Glauco Venir and German sax/bass clarinet player Klaus Gesing. 

The performance starts at 7:30pm, which you can purchase here. The Jacob Young Band finishes the evening with a performance at 10:30pm, with a special ticket bundle price available! 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician? 

Norma Winstone: Hearing Frank Sinatra when I was very very young and being smitten. From then on I wanted to sing. Hearing Miles Davis when I was about 16 made me want to be part of the music making process, just like a jazz musician.

SC: Amazing. What is your secret talent?

NW: My not-so-secret talent is impersonation.

SC: We'd love to hear some! Party trick?

NW: I don't have one.

SC:  Fair enough. What was the first concert you ever went to?

NW: I can remember being taken to The London Palladium to see The Andrews Sisters! I'm that old!

SC: Describe your first live performance.

NW: I think my first public performance was at a coffeehouse called The Sombrero Grill! I was so nervous on those first gigs that I would run into the bathroom and lock myself in just so that I wouldn't have to see or speak to anyone. I would break out in a nerve rash. Thinking about it though I suppose my first live performances were to my family, cousins, Aunts and Uncles at Christmas parties we would have. I was around 8 years old and my party pieces were "The Lady is a Tramp" and "If I Loved You", complete with long black dress with gold straps (made by my mother's cousin), with my Dad playing the piano.

BONUS

SC: What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

NW: I don't really have one.

SC: What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

NW: I'd love to be a bit wacky but I'm not.

SC: Do you have a pre-show ritual? 

NW: No

SC: Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

NW: The trio has a fairly new recording so we will be 'playing in' some of the new pieces at SubCulture.

SC: We're thrilled to hear it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

NW: Finding something good to eat at the right time.

I bet you won't have too much trouble with that in NYC. Thank you for answering our #Take5 questions and we're honored to have you perform at SubCulture!

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SubCulture Take 5 / New West Guitar Group

The incredibly talented gentlemen of the New West Guitar Group hit our stage on Monday, June 23rd! With a glowing recommendation from Mr. Jeff Goldblum for this performance in particular, how can you not come?

The show starts at 8:00pm. Purchase tickets here and learn more about Perry Smith, Jeff Stein, and John Storie below! 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

New West Guitar Group: We’ve all been checking out music and playing since we were youngsters. Certainly our favorite artists (everyone from Wes Montgomery, George Benson, Maurice Ravel, The Beatles, Steely Dan, James Taylor, John Coltrane, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Ry Cooder…the list is too long…) have always inspired us to get out there and create music. However, our teachers have also been big inspirations. We all studied Jazz Guitar at USC, and we definitely wouldn't be doing this without their help and guidance. 

SC: Beautiful. Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

NWGG: We’re super excited to be working on a new album with some very special guest vocalists…look out for that in early 2015! While we won’t be performing that music quite yet, people can definitely expect to hear some classic covers from artists like Joni Mitchell and The Police, as well as new original material that’s been composed and arranged since our last album, Big City.

SC: Awesome, we will keep our ears open for the next album! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

NWGG: Definitely deciding on what to listen to in the van during some of those long hauls between concerts…thankfully we usually have some pretty good stuff to choose from. On our last tour, we were checking out the new Nickel Creek album, some Nels Cline, Steve Martin…always a great way to pass those tedious driving hours.

SC: We know how essential music is for any long drive. What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

Collectively, we are at a high schooler’s level of proficiency on the clarinet, the electric bass, and the drum set (I’ll let you guess which instrument goes with which member of New West).

SC: Based off names only, we are going to go with Jeff: Clarinet, Perry: Drum Set, and John: Electric Bass. Do you have a pre-show ritual?

NWGG: Each of us spends a couple of silent moments with The Pick of Destiny…

Ha! We hope that works. Thank you New West Guitar Group for answering our Take 5 questions and we look forward to an amazing performance at SubCulture. 

[subculturenyc]

SubCulture Take 5 / Caroline Glaser

Season 4 of NBC’s The Voice brought the world Caroline Glaser, and the world invited her in, even turning Usher into “Gusher” and Adam Levine into a fan! It doesn’t hurt that she is not only a brilliant and charming performer, but also has the songwriting chops to back it all up with substance.   Come catch her at SubCulture on Friday at 8pm while you can still see her in such an intimate venue!

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SC: What was the first concert you ever went to?

CG: I really wish it was something cooler, but I am about 90% sure it was an Aaron Carter concert…. And I am about 90% sure that I knew every word to every song. 

SC: We can dig. Aaron knows how to throw a "party"! Describe your first live performance. 

CG: My first performance was at a school event my sophomore year of high school. It took place in a little cafeteria filled with probably about 30-40 people, but I was absolutely terrified. I did a little 25 minute set sitting on a stool with my guitar… I don't think I looked up from my guitar once or even said a word, but the feeling I felt stepping off the stage is what got me hooked on performing. Right after this show I started playing open mic nights at a local coffee shop in my area- then a few months later auditioned for The Voice. 

SC: What a cool story! Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

CG: Yes! I just finished up my second (6 song) EP. I am absolutely STOKED about this record… I haven't released it yet, but I will have some rough copies of the new music to sell at the show! So this crowd will be the very first to own their copy of my new music. Very exciting :) 

SC: We can't wait to hear it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

CG: Aside from being away from my family (and dogs), I'd say it's probably packing. I have pretty much been living out of my suitcase for this past year, and still haven't gotten the hang of packing for the road. I am pretty infamous for overpacking, but luckily the guys in my band are usually there to help cary it up the stairs. 

SC: Got to love guy friends. What is your secret talent/ party trick? 

CG: I have this really disgusting eye-crossing trick I do that usually weirds everybody out. 

Did you learn that from your guy friends? Thank you for participating in our Take 5, Caroline!

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SubCulture Take 5 / The Yanks

Join the lads as they celebrate the release of Haymaker, their second album of traditional Irish music! For this record, The Yanks pulled in talents on drums and saxophone, to reflect " the spirit of New York City’s Irish dance halls in the 1920s."

What could be better? See them on Thursday, June 18th at 7:30pm. 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?

The Yanks: We all learned Irish music while growing up in the United States. Our teachers and inspirations are the older generation of musicians who emigrated over from Ireland and began settling in America.

SC: Describe your first live performance.

TY: It was at Club Passim in Boston. We had never played together before and we had so much fun that we decided to start a band. The recording is still out there somewhere.... 

SC: Right place at the right time! Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

TY: This will be the official hometown launch of our brand new album!

SC: Haymaker, available at the performance! Do you gentlemen have a pre-show ritual?

TY: We make a human pyramid and chant the lyrics to "Good Night, New York".

SC: That. Is. Amazing. We will need a video of that in our greenroom please. What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

TY: We've been listening to a lot of John Hartford on tour.

BONUS

SC: What is your secret talent/party trick?

TY: Isaac is a killer beatboxer.

SC: Nice. What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)?

TY: We have a band Food Blog - http://yanksband.tumblr.com/ 

SC: Great! We have some good suggestions if you want. What was the first concert you ever went to?

TY: Solas at the Towne Crier Cafe in Pawling, NY

SC: We love Solas! What a thrilling performance. What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?

TY: Laundry 

Laundry is the hardest part about living in an apartment, too. Thank you to the spectacular Yanks for answering our tough questions and we looking forward to the new album! 

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SubCulture Take 5 / Irene Diaz

On Saturday, June 14th, singer/songwriter Irene Diaz brings her stunning voice to our stage. NPR’s Don Gonyea commented on Diaz’s music by exclaiming, “anyone who hears your voice will wonder where you have been all this time.” 

The show begins at 11:00pm. You can buy your tickets and view more information regarding the performance here.

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician? 

Irene Diaz: I can’t really pin point one person.  If one, I would have to say my dad.  Before he had us kids he was part of this Rock band called Cinema.  They even toured to Mexico for a little bit.  But I think the family life kinda stopped his career.  He still plays though.  But I guess me making a decision to do this full time and actually make a career out of being a musician stems partially from my dad not being able to do it in the past. SC: We've had a lot of musicians come through lately that attribute their inspiration to their parents, it's really quite amazing! What is your secret talent/party trick?

ID: Haha. I don’t know.  I can make a trumpet sound with my mouth. 

SC: A good mouth-trumpet will take you far. What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

ID: Right now I have fallen in love with Rhye.  I recently performed at a Charity Brunch and they were also on the bill. I fell in love with their sound. SC: What is one wacky thing about you that nobody knows (but they will now!)? 

ID: I can move one eye without the other moving at all.  Shhh.  Weird, yeah. SC: We'll be keeping an eye out for that (we had to)! What was the first concert you ever went to?

ID: My first concert I ever remember going to that I bought tickets to go to was at the Hollywood Bowl to see Coldplay.  This was back in 2003, I believe.  

BONUS

SC: Describe your first live performance.  ID: My first live performance was at the church I went to at the time.  I was around 18 or 19.  My friend Alex had encouraged me to sing a song we had written together and so I did.  The entire time I had my eyes closed, but it was such a great feeling being in front of people singing and playing.   SC: Do you have a pre-show ritual? ID: Still learning and trying things out.  I always get nervous before playing out.  I’m learning how to breath and stretch. Something I always need on hand is gum or a mint.  I can’t do without fresh breath and it kinda calms me down. SC: Sounds reasonable. Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture? ID: I have a new song titled "Anything For You" that I will be performing, and the rest you will just have to wait and come to the show.   SC: We're looking forward to it! What is the hardest part about being on the road during a tour?  ID:The hardest part is falling in love with a city and meeting great people and then having to say good bye.

Thank you to the wonderful Irene Diaz for taking the time to answer our #Take5 questions! See you on Saturday. 

[subculturenyc]

SubCulture Take 5 / Brenda Earle Stokes

  Upcoming jazz star, Brenda Earle Stokes, will be releasing her latest contemporary jazz album Right About Now with us on Friday, June 13th. Joining her on stage will be Pete McCann on guitar, Evan Gregor on bass, and Ross Pederson on the drums.  

Not only does her album include six original compositions, but it also features new twists on Joe Jackson and Pete Townshend songs! As a talented pianist, composer and vocalist, Brenda continues to make exceptional strides in the jazz genre.

The performance starts at 7:30pm, you can purchase tickets your tickets here! 

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SubCulture: Who inspired you to become a musician?  

Brenda Earle Stokes: When I was in grade 10, my high school band teacher played an Oscar Peterson album for me which completely changed my life.  I had never heard someone play jazz piano before and his incredible sound and feel flipped a real switch in me.  At that moment, I knew that I had to be a jazz pianist.

SC: Awesome! What is your secret talent/party trick?

BES: My Michael McDonald impersonation is pretty spot on.  I also have a near encyclopedic knowledge about pop music pre-2000.

SC: Sounds like a viral video making in the process! What’s/Who’s your favorite song/band/artist right now?

BES: I have been listening to Raffi nearly every day. He is my two-year-old son's favorite singer (besides me!) I'm thrilled that is such a Raffi fan, since he's a good Canadian like me!

SC: That's sweet, Raffi is classic. What was the first concert you ever went to?

BES: I went to hear Morrissey at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Michigan when I was in high school.  It was my first stadium concert and it was unbelievably cool.  Big props to my dad for taking my best friend and I and for sitting two rows behind us so I wouldn't be embarrassed!

SC: What an awesome dad, that is amazing. Do you have anything new in the works right now? Can we expect to hear any of it at SubCulture?

BES: My new album Right About Now!  My SubCulture show is a CD release event and we will be playing all of the material from it.  I am really excited to share this music with everyone - it was a real labor of love.

We're looking forward to hearing your new album! Thank you to the unbelievably talented Brenda Earle Stokes for participating in our #Take5!