Performing Arts

METROLAND (NOW) : Revival of a Capital Region Institution

October 9, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Like the glory days of First Friday, METROLAND played such an important part in the creative discovery of what the Capital Region had to offer. Every week I remember picking up a copy (Usually at Tess’s Lark Tavern) and scanning through it to plan my weekend activities. While there are some other sources of arts and cultural listings in the region where you can find out things that are happening and get good interviews and background (Radio Radio X and Nippertown) METROLAND was always a gold standard for finding out where and what was happening from the above to underground scenes. Musician / Comedian Erin Harkes is looking to bring back that energy and has secured the brand for a new rendition as retooled as METROLAND NOW. The question is, what will she do with it?

Erin Harkes : Musician, Comedian and Publisher at METROLAND NOW | Photo: Kiki Vassilakis

Could you state your name, title and background?

Erin Harkes. Multi-hyphenate 😉 Musician, Comedian, and now publisher!

As an entertainer who has spent over two decades in the capital region, navigating every twist and turn the industry has presented, continuously adapting and reinventing myself along the way. The constant throughout this journey has been the significance of marketing. While the methods of marketing may evolve, the essential need for it remains unchanged.

Many people often ask why I haven’t relocated to a larger city. It’s a complex question. Perhaps it stems from a sense of contentment or, by some accounts, complacency. It’s undeniable that bigger cities offer opportunities that may not be available here, yet I have consistently found ways to create my own paths. Instead of commuting to places like Boston or NYC every time I want to showcase my comedy, I decided to take matters into my own hands by producing shows specifically to provide myself with performance opportunities. I’ve approached music in a similar fashion, and now, I’m venturing into publishing as well with METROLAND NOW.

Historic METROLAND Covers | Photo(s): Facebook

To many of us who have been around the region for a while, METROLAND was a gold standard for the arts and cultural sector (and activism). I was so disappointed to see it go. What made you decide that now was the time to revive that and how were you able to pull that off? What geographic area will you be covering? Topically, what will be the content focus of the publication?

I felt there was a void / vacuum in the area. There are definitely other publications but some are just not an option for me as a performer. I had always had the idea of reviving METROLAND in the back or my brain. I honestly never thought beyond that until this year. It all kind of happened organically through countless conversations with other creatives and folks in the community. We will be covering Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga and the general perimeter around those four. But we won’t hold ourselves back from places beyond that when the call comes! The focus, for now, will mostly be music but we’re expanding into arts and other entertainment, comedy, community events, non-profit organizations, small businesses, a comprehensive calendar and just see where it takes us! As long as the message is positive, we’ll share it!

I know you started with the idea of being an online publication only and now I have heard murmurs that you are considering bringing a version into print also. Can you tell us more about what that will look like and what the timelines are on that front? Will this be a weekly issue?

I started this idea with NO intention of printing but the more I talked to folks the more I heard this exact phrase uttered: “I miss picking one up.” I really listened to that. For whatever reason, folks miss the physical nature of METROLAND. I don’t believe print is dead but I also don’t see the need for a weekly so we’re going to try for a monthly hopefully starting this month! (October 2024)

A robust and representative publication takes a lot of team work. How big is your current team? Is it mostly volunteers or paid folk? As I recollect, that last version of Metroland ended up closing due to financial issues. Do you have a plan to ensure that you don’t end up with similar challenges?

My current team is about seven folks, including myself. Everyone has been volunteering, including myself. There’s one person who I have been paying out of my own pocket because she does this for a living and has a small child and another on the way, whereas the other team members have day jobs. Everything is transparent; everyone knows who’s making what. I’m actively working on way to ensure that everyone, including myself, gets paid. It’s a priority. The last thing I want to do is exploit artists!

I registered as a non-profit because my priority is to try and help other non-profits in the area – be it venues or general NFP’s – get the attention they might not be able to afford otherwise. I plan on doing some fundraising and getting some sponsors/patrons/donors to help give to the cause. There will also be advertising opportunities that can generate income. My plan to make sure we stay financially viable is to use the resources I have built over my 20+ years in the Capital Region and learn from my peers. I have been offered an incredible amount of support from some of the most successful people in the area and am genuinely humbled by the respect I’ve been shown. I have a big ego and know what my vision is but I am not too proud to ask for help with the things that I haven’t learned enough about yet. It will take a village, but I HAVE that village.

If folks want to be involved on the creative content side or are interested in advertising or being a distribution point, what’s the best way for them to get in touch?

We have received SO many submissions so far. We are working on the best way to filter through them all and give the best consideration to each and are still ironing out a process to make this easy for everyone involved. When it’s time it will be very clear how to do that! Right now we suggest checking the website and the social media. We’re chipping away at the messages we’ve already gotten and asking people to be patient with us. I have amazing volunteers and I am not about to overwhelm them. There’s a fine line between ambition/tenacity and harassment, though. The latter will not be rewarded. Even the most talented folks won’t be considered if they aren’t respectful during this process. Also the core group has to vote unanimously on new contributors. I want everyone to be safe and comfortable with their peers. That is paramount. Contacting ME directly isn’t a good idea, either. Haha! Just trying to make our boundaries very clear.

Shameless Plug: What would you like to share with us? Any things coming up on the horizon we should know about?

Thank you but honestly nothing right now! We just ask that everyone share the website and the socials and keep it up with all the positive messages. I can’t wait to watch this grow and work with our vibrant and talented community!

Finally, know that ACE! has your back! 🙂

LIKEWISE! I look very much forward to working with you guys closely!

For more on the final days of METROLAND previous...check out the article in the Times Union from January 2016 by Paul Grondahl.

The Team at METROLAND – The Final Days | Photo: Steve Jacobs / Times Union

Kinderhook Memorial Library : Finding New Ways to Deliver on It’s Mission

May 2, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Please state your name, educational and/or experiential background and what your current title and job description is.

My name is Matt Pavloff, and I am the current Director of the Kinderhook Memorial Library. I started in Kinderhook as a clerk in 2012 while I was working on my online Master’s through UBuffalo. Eventually I was promoted to Teen Services Librarian, and was given the opportunity to step into the Director’s position in 2022.

Kinderhook Memorial Library | Architect and Art Historian: Mantle Fielding | Image: Provided

The physical space is a beautiful architectural artifact. Can you tell us a bit about the history of the building?

The Kinderhook Free Library was formed in 1928, and the building was constructed in 1933. It was dedicated in memory of George Davie by his daughter Caroline Davie Lloyd, and designed by renowned Architect and Art Historian Mantle Fielding. The footprint of the library remained relatively unchanged until 2016 with the addition of our quiet reading room, the first stage of our capital campaign. After raising $2.4 million from donors and grants, the full building was completed in 2018. We worked with our architect, Butler, Rowland, Mays and contractor Jim Romanchuk to design a building that could accommodate modern needs and expectations with the historic charm that the Village of Kinderhook is known for. The result is a modern building that still fits in perfectly with the historic buildings that surround it.

Fall 2017 Groundbreaking for a 3000 sqft Reading Room Addition | Image: David Lee

Specifically, since the 2018 renovation, there is a commitment to sustainability in the program. Can you explain what this looks like, why you feel this is important and how that influences your programming and operating considerations?

Even before the renovation, our board and staff recognized that a functional library needs to be forward thinking and resilient to change. They began taking steps to make sure that the library could continue to grow and remain relevant by ensuring that the library was accessible and welcoming to anyone and everyone who walked through the doors. Libraries are for everyone, and we recognize our responsibility to our patrons and neighbors.

Sustainability takes a number of forms. While environmental stewardship is a big part of being sustainable, it’s not the only facet. Our commitment to a sustainable library includes providing a collection and services that reach all members of our community equitably, regardless of income, race, gender, political affiliation, or any other factor. Sustainability also includes our fiscal responsibilities. As a public entity, we want to be sure that taxpayers feel confident in supporting us, and that involves making smart choices with funding. This will ensure that we are as prepared for whatever life may throw at us as we can be, and that we will always be here to serve our patrons.

Flower Arranging Class at Kinderhook Memorial Library | Image: Provided

STEAM Based Programming : Young Makers Learning How to Use a 3D Printer | Image: Provided

Can you share your thoughts on the current role of libraries in our communities and why they are so important, especially in our rural communities?

It seems that there are fewer and fewer places in the world for people to simply exist. The library provides that space—a gathering area for people to simply be without any expectation. It’s a place to meet with friends and associates, catch up with neighbors, go after school, or find some peace and quiet. Where else can someone go to just hang out for hours at a time, all year round? I feel a clean and safe public space is one of the best things that libraries can offer.

In addition to that: libraries are a vast resource of free information and entertainment. Libraries have adapted to changing technologies by providing free internet access and WiFi, DVDs, video game rentals, and more in addition to our managed collection of print books and magazines. Many libraries offer a “Library of Things” that allow patrons to check out unique items: we have nature explorer backpacks, cake pans, and a car code scanner to name a few; other libraries loan out telescopes, fishing poles, gardening tools…it’s fascinating to see what people are borrowing!

All of this is in response to community needs. People want a social hub. They want the opportunity to try new things and learn. And we are always here to listen to feedback and ideas.

Kinderhook Memorial Library Program Flyers | Image: Provided

Can you tell us a bit about funding sources for a program like yours? Some granularity in this answer would be appreciated and super informative to our audience.

Most of our funding is through local taxes. In fact, every couple of years we go to the voters and request an increase in funding, and without fail we’ve had the increase approved. Not only does this help us increase and diversify our programs, but it’s one of the best measures of public support. We also have a wonderful and active Friends of the Library that supports us throughout the year. Many of our services are directly supported through them, such as our Kanopy streaming service, our New York Times and BookPage subscriptions, and our eBook collection through Libby and Hoopla. Circulation of these eResources has increased dramatically in the past 4 years and without support from the Friends, we wouldn’t be able to provide half of what we do.

Our Board has begun leading a few fundraisers as well, and we are thrilled at how successful one of our annual programs, Art Studio Tour has been—not only as a fundraiser, but as a fun experience for our community!

The Art of Telling Stories through Minecraft with Author Nick Eliopulos | Image: Provided

What are your long-term plans as regarding the programmatic mission and the physical space of the library? Any interesting collaborations on deck?

We are very excited to be working on a new tutoring initiative at the Library. This is still being planned, but we are hoping to launch a tutoring service for children at the library—free of charge to families, and with professional, well compensated tutors. We’re also currently exploring collaborations and partnerships to try to take our programs out of our building and into the community to reach those who might not be able to travel to us.

KML Art Studio Tours | Jordan Taylor Hill | Images: Provided

Finally, open question…anything you would like to plug coming up that folks should know about? Don’t be bashful…

Well, we like to think that all of our programs are interesting, but we do have some big, unique ones coming up. First and foremost, this is our second year hosting an Art Studio Tour, and I know that there is a lot of excitement that’s built up from last year’s. This is a self-guided tour that grants access to the studios of local artists, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at the varying processes of this talented group. We are also hosting a VIP Cocktail Party in Stuyvesant on Saturday, May 5^th, where you can mix and mingle with the artists and enjoy some light fare and drinks. Tickets can be purchased at kmlarttour.com or at the door on May 5 from 1-5pm and Sunday from 11am-3pm.

We’re also hosting a Festival of the Unknown on May 25^th from 11am-2pm, which will bring vendors and lecturers from across the state to discuss and share all things paranormal! On June 15^th in honor of Juneteenth, we’re hosting renowned musician Jordan Taylor Hill at the Kinderhook Farmer’s Market for a hands-on demonstration of West African drumming and dance, and on Saturday, June 29^th we’ll be hosting our fourth annual Drag Queen Story Hour at 2:30pm.

PINT SIZED and NO FUN: A Tale of 3 Cities with Entrepreneur August Rosa

April 2, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

Having been to several shows at August Rosa‘s most recent venue, (including Hand Habits, Tiawan based Mong Tong, the Algonquin Pow Wow Medicine Singers with Yonatan Gat, and then there was that cool ass DAEDELUS show) it always impresses me the incredible variety of all types of music that can be experienced there. I was aware of his Albany and Saratoga PINT SIZED craft beer based locations and have tippled a drink or two in Albany specifically. What really excites me though, is the visceral music programming and developing community based around NO FUN.

August Rosa : Pre-Show Load In at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

Please state your name, professional and educational background. Also, can you elaborate a bit on the three locations that you are currently operating?

Why hello Corey Aldrich. My name is August Rosa I am Owner and Operator of Pint Sized in downtown Saratoga Springs on Broadway and Albany on Lark Street. Most of my time is spent at No Fun in Troy nowadays my third location. I was briefly involved in a wine bar called Post on Lark Street as well with some of my best friends that I used to be in a band with (Aficionado). It is going to be 10 years of being an entrepreneur on July 4th 2024! Prior to diving into business ownership I did marketing for MASS MoCA and the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District. I had really great bosses at both of those jobs that were patient with me as a creative… but incredibly lazy and objectively bad employee. No joke…having run businesses now for close to 10 years and understanding the full scope of how things work from the ground up, I believe I would kick ass at any job as long as it wasn’t boring. I went to the College of Saint Rose (RIP) with a major in Communications and a minor in Music Industry for undergrad and then got my MBA at SUNY Albany. I also was welcomed into the band Sun Natives on bass guitar by TJ and Brandon which is a nice outlet that is a purely creative outlet much needed void of any business interference.

August Rosa Plays Bass with the Sun Natives at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

Pint Sized Storefront in Saratoga Springs, New York | Image: Provided

Can you talk a bit about the difference between NO FUN in Troy and the PINT SIZED locations Albany and Saratoga?

The focus at NO FUN is what happens on the stage and not what is in the coolers. Pint Sized are craft beer centric bars that at any time have over 100 different options to choose from. Prior to opening NO FUN I would often throw events that were not conducive to the spaces. They are called Pint Sized for a reason. Our Saratoga location might be 400 square feet of usable space for patrons. We one time had an 11 person band there. It was ridiculous, extremely fun and packed out… but truly ridiculous. We still do events like karaoke and trivia at the Pint Sized locations but have shifted our live music attention to No Fun where we have a great sound system and the space to throw very sick shows.

A Place to Bury Strangers Live at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

Can you share a bit about what your motivation was to open and what your current vision is for NO FUN?

I was constantly finding myself having to go to a big music festival to knock out a ton of bands I wanted to see or travel to the major metros for the type of music I am interested in. I like the weird stuff and felt there was a void in the area for that stuff. The only thing filling that in my opinion was the programming Super Dark Collective brings to Desperate Annie’s (Saratoga) as well as basement shows. I wanted to create a space that was slightly bigger (not too big!) that everyone would feel comfortable going to so I could bring some bigger bands in the area and not have to travel for the stuff that I like the most. I believe No Fun is the absolute perfect size for the type of stuff we like to present. Feels good with 50 heads and feels really good as it approaches 200 heads.

WITCH (*Zambia*) Live at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

My favorite places to play / see shows are more DIY in nature… be it a basement or an art space. I wanted No Fun to not have a shred of corporate feel and vibe like you were at a show at your friends house while at the same time functioning professionally as a legitimate licensed business. Places I drew inspiration for the project include Death By Audio, Glasslands Gallery, 285 Kent… there were a million places like this in NYC that absolutely ruled, Valentines of course is a big inspiration (What’s up Howard?!) and the many house show spaces that have popped up throughout the region the past 20 years I have lived here. One of my favorite shows I played in the area was a vacant apartment that still had power and an unlocked door. We legit just brought a shitty PA system into the place, plugged in and packed the house. This was back when Facebook worked and was cool and an event listing could drum up 100 plus folks in an hour or two.

Algonquin Pow Wow Medicine Singers with Yonatan Gat Live at No Fun in Troy, New York
Image: Patrick Dodson

Having been to several shows there (including Hand Habits, Tiawan based Mong Tong, the Algonquin Pow Wow Medicine Singers with Yonatan Gat, and then there was that cool ass DAEDELUS show) it always impresses me the incredible variety of all types of music that one can experience there. How do you manage to keep such a strong schedule and number of bands coming through?

It honestly happened faster than I thought. In the beginning I was bugging agents and bands all the time and not getting responses. Over time we proved ourselves and have developed some really great relationships that align exactly with the type of stuff I like to book – psych rock, post punk, world music… typically weirder and oftentimes louder stuff. I have brought in some acts that I have listened to forever and legit look up to like A Place To Bury Strangers, Ted Leo, No Age, Delicate Steve, Dan Deacon!!! (Chk Chk Chk), Gilla Band and our good friend Meg Duffy with Hand Habits to name a few. Some of the most rewarding acts were global in nature including Imarhan (Algeria), Medicine Singers (Algonquin Pow Wow), Acid Mothers Temple (Japan), WITCH (Zambia) and Mong Tong (Taiwan) which just happened.

Gutting a Body of Water Live at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

No Fun in Troy, New York Concert Posters | Image: Provided

Our programming is very kinetic and we are on track to do over 250 shows close to if not over 1000 bands this year! It is not a solo effort by any means and wouldn’t be possible without working with some of the area’s most innovative curators / presenters. There is a really solid group of folks who present at the space including Super Dark Collective (Shane Sanchez is our Booking Manager), Hey Greasy, Byrdhouse Records, Bee Side Cassettes, Albany Hardcore…There are a bunch more and bands who bring their release shows and ideas to us but these are some of the more regular presenters.

The economics and logistics of running a business can be intense, especially a live music venue open multiple days per week. Can you share a bit about your day to day and how you’re keeping the bands and rent paid?

It truly sucks! Please buy tickets in advance. Not just at No Fun but to any place you go to see shows. I cannot stress how helpful it is. It gives agents strong ticket counts so they have confidence in spaces and bring more sick shows to the area. It also helps us to prepare properly for crowd size. And…you also save a few bucks!!!

A big goal of mine is to keep my mental health in check with this thing. I am not going to lie, this project is not easy and projects like this can end at any time. There are definitely moments where I want to stop doing it. All that being said, it is in a very strong place right now and financially viable. I am always focused on keeping momentum going to keep the bills paid up. Unfortunately it comes at the cost of not being able to shut it off. I really am going to have to figure that out sooner than later.

Hand Habits Live at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

Anything you have coming up you would like to share with our audience to keep them in the loop? Long term plans etc?

There are honestly too many to list. Just go to nofuntroy.eventbrite.com and pick something at random. All of the shows are great and deserve a crowd. I highlight the vibe of each show in the descriptions in just a few words. The whole purpose of the project is to have folks engage with new experiences. I see a lot of folks that go to the same show over and over again which is frustrating. I really do notice the folks that take the effort to get out of their comfort zone and that is the most fulfilling element of the project in my opinion. Those folks know who they are and I cannot thank them enough as they are the driving force that keeps me interested in doing it.

Upcoming 2024 Shows at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Provided

I would prefer having twenty people see something new and unexpected that they will remember their whole life over a sold out event with people who just go to the same exact shows all the time. Also it would be cool if people over the age of 30 stopped acting like they are in retirement mode. I pretty much stop engaging with individuals once they say they are too old to do stuff. I don’t care to be around folks with that mentality. It’s depressing and I see too much of it. All of my ads at this point target 21-30. Please take advantage of your life while you are still here.

K that’s enough of my bullish!t. Go to shows!!!

Gilla Band Live at No Fun in Troy, New York | Image: Patrick Dodson

Write This Way : A Conversation w/ SONG CITY’s Scott Womer

April 2, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

About two years ago, I started seeing and hearing about something called Song City. The branding was tight, it felt like something important was happening. Eventually, I realized that it was in fact a local phenom. These shows, upstairs at the RUCK have a very organic feel. Played in a round, musicians all interacting with and feeding off one another – the vibe is very intimate. I caught up with Scott Womer to find out more about the overall program mission and direction and to get a peek under the covers to see what makes this series tick.

Song City *Founder and Director*, Scott Wormer | Image: Kiki Vassilakis (*with edits*)

Please state your name, what you do and any relevant background info.

My name is Scott Womer, Songwriter and the Founder / Director of Song City in Troy New York. During the day, I work as a Litho Technician at Global Foundries in Malta. On the education front, I hold a BA from Gordon College.

Song City w/ Caitlin Barker at the RUCK in Troy, New York 01.10.23 | Image: Kiki Vassilakis

I know you’re a musician yourself. What motivated you to put together the SONG CITY series. What is your mission and goals for the program?

In 1995, I moved from Albany to Nashville, in hopes of getting more music opportunities. It’s a humbling experience to move from a small music scene to one of the premier music cities of the world, where there are thousands of people doing what you do, and doing it much better. Having seen that happen multiple times, I decided to alter my goals. Over the next 5 years, I had tremendous experiences working at a record label, doing session work, learning to write, forming a band, and recording an EP.

The greatest thing I learned in Nashville was the power of a song. Beyond techniques, abilities, and trends, the song is what changes lives. Much of this lesson happened at a venue called The Bluebird Cafe. A staple in Nashville, the Bluebird featured weekly showcases, featuring 4 local songwriters, mostly known for their writing of songs by all our favorite country stars. This is also the venue where artists such as Taylor Swift and Keith Urban were discovered. The weakness of the Bluebird at that point in their history, was that they were a single-genre showcase. Not only does that lack in variety, more importantly, it conditions the audience to think that this is the only style of songwriting. At the time, I had no idea how that observation would affect my future.

Song City w/ Amani O at the RUCK in Troy, New York 6-13-23 | Image: Kiki Vassilakis

Years later, when I moved back to Troy NY, and was so energized by the talent and variety of the local music scene, I felt compelled to do whatever I could to help it grow. After writing and recording a project under the name Fenton Hardy during Covid, I realized how important it is to be part of an artistic city. Community is at the heart of every effective movement. So, I took what I had experienced at the Bluebird, and expanded it to include all genres. Some of our greatest writers are hip hop artists, jazz artists, alternative and avant-garde artists, and they deserve a place at the table. This not only creates respect for all styles of songwriting, but expands the audience’s experience and musical taste.

Song City at the Ruck in Troy, New York | Image: Kiki Vissilakis

Our home at The Ruck is integral to the success of Song City. One day, Dave Gardell, owner of my neighborhood bar, The Ruck, contacted me about bringing music back to their venue. They were interested in concerts and an open mic, and asked me to run those events. What I didn’t know was that there is a second and third floor to the Ruck that was beautiful and fairly unused. I instantly realized this was the room I was looking for.

Beyond the Song City showcase, we also host a monthly songwriting community called The Open Floor which began simply as a monthly open mic. We have a “Song Challenge” at each month’s Open Floor that has become the major draw for each of these evenings. On the first day of each month, I post a phrase. The writers then have the rest of the month to write a song using that phrase, and perform it at The Open Floor, on the fourth Tuesday of each month. It is in no way a competition for us. It’s purely a motivational tool to keep us consistently writing. The second half of each Open Floor is a time for everyone that wrote for the challenge to play their song for each other. It’s amazing to see how many ways a phrase can be used. I often write a song myself for the challenge, and it’s significantly improved my songwriting.

Song City at the RUCK in Troy, New York | Image: Kiki Vassilakis

As a producer, I can attest to the challenge of producing music shows where folks get paid and there’s a little change left at the end of the night. How have you structured the business side to pull all that off?

Most local artists can not afford management. And because of this, they deal with being double-booked, underpaid, cancelled last minute, and under-publicized. They deserve to be taken care of. Because of this, going into Season 2, I raised the ticket price by 50%, so that I could raise their pay by the same percentage. Additionally, We also where able to help support the program via grant funding we secured through The Arts Center of the Capital Region. The events are highly publicized, given a generous bar tab, a comp ticket, and one of the nicest green rooms in the 518. We also hire the best music photographer in the capital district, Kiki Vassilakis, to shoot each showcase, of which the artists are given all of these photos to use for their own use. As much as I would love to make my living serving the local music community, we currently are at a place where we can pay all involved, artists, audio engineer, and photographer.

Song City at the RUCK in Troy, New York 09.12.23 | Image: Kiki Vassilakis

I believe you were the recipient of the NYSCA Re-grant program through the Arts Center of the Capital Region. Can you share a little but about why you feel like programs such as this are important to the sustainability of our creative community?

The days of musicians making money through their recorded music are over. As much as music streaming has increased the general public’s ability to have access to more music than anytime in history, it has also stripped away the musicians’ ability to make a living off their recorded music. Spotify currently pays artists approximately $0.003 per stream on average. That means for every 1000 plays on Spotify, an artist will make approximately $4.00. And from 2024 onwards, artists will also need to hit a minimum number of listeners to make their track eligible for royalty payments. Therefore, if artists are truly going to make money through their art, they need to be performing shows often and being paid well. They also need to be selling merch and physical copies of their music. So there is a greater need than ever for the public to support the local artists, beyond streaming their music.

Song City’s Ink Retreat 2023 at YMCA’s Silver Bay | Image: Kiki Vassilakis

The final piece of the current Song City universe is a yearly songwriting retreat called Ink. Last year, we were honored to be awarded a $5000 Community Arts Grant through the NYSCA and The Art Center of the Capital Region which helped fund the program. Many songwriters applied and 10 were chosen, to spend 3 nights at a lodge on Lake George, part of the YMCA Silver Bay property. Like Song City, we encouraged writers of all genres to apply, R & B, indie-pop, alt-rock, folk, hip hop etc. The days were a combination of individual writing, collaborations, daily walks, amazing food, and nightly gatherings around the fireplace sharing our songs. We read and discussed Rick Rubin’s brilliant book “The Creative Act” and used some of his techniques to change how we normally write. We also had a small demo studio and engineer in-house to capture the new songs. And ultimately concluded with a showcase here in Troy, featuring the songs written on the retreat, as well as a live recording and film of that show.

Anything you have coming up you would like to share with our audience to keep them in the loop? Long term plans etc?

The next few months are busy at Song City. We have 3 showcases left in Season 2, with the next one happening on Tuesday, April 9, at 7:30pm, hosted by The Ruck in Troy. This month we are featuring jazz saxophonist Awan Rashad, TJ Foster, frontman for the local rock band E.R.I.E., alt-pop artist, John Glenn from LiketheAstronaut, and contemporary folk songwriter Kate McDonnell. The Open Floor songwriting community continues to meet every 4th Tuesday. We are beginning to plan 2024’s Ink Retreat, and we are getting ready to release a special recording of the showcase we did this last year, featuring live performances of the artists and songs written on 2023’s retreat!

Watch for all of this on songcitytroy.com and Instagram at @songcitytroy. If you would like more information, would like to be involved, or would be interested in supporting Song City, you can reach me directly at songcitytroy (@) gmail.com.

Bryan Hamill’s CIRCUS : DIY Print Space Seeks Mission Oriented Partnership

February 29, 2024 By Corey Aldrich

I first heard of Bryan Hamill at a meeting with Michelle Toch Dinsmore at Overit Media. We were planning the kick off of the rebranded First Friday in Albany last year. Part of the initial rollout was a FF show at her space including Abe Farraro and this “cool guy super connected guy doing amazing print stuff in the skateboard scene…” I came to find out, Bryan is all that and so much more, bringing a passion for craft and creative community to the Arbor Hill neighborhood in Albany. After a successful grand opening last year, he was notified that the space he occupied was no longer going to be available. So what is now to come of this community driven arts / maker space and its specialized equipment? We have an idea…

Bryan Hamill Founder and Shop Manager at CIRCUS (Power Through Paper) | Image: Provided

Please state your name, what you do and your educational / experiential background.

My name is Bryan Hamill. I am currently an Accounting Administrator at Audio Video Corporation in Albany New York and Founder and Shop Manager at Circus (Power Through Paper), a community based printing and events space in Albany’s Arbor Hill Neighborhood.

I grew up down by New York City but moved up here to go to college and absolutely fell in love with the city. I studied music and video production at St. Rose Colleg e in Albany and did odd jobs in both upon graduation; recording various albums for local musicians such as Steve Gaylord, commercials for small businesses, weddings, and music videos for bands such as Rockets and Blue Lights. I used to play in a band that was pretty popular in Albany called The Amazing Plaid among others. I’ve played shows around the country traveling in a beat up old prison bus, and even played a week’s worth of shows in Germany. I started and helped run a non-profit arts organization in Albany called the Capital District Federation of Ideas, where we had a performance space on Madison Ave called Point Five. I convinced myself that I needed to secure a grown up job, so I’ve been working full time at local company Audio-Video Corporation since 2011.

After work, needing to keep doing something creative, I fell back on something that was a full-blown necessity when playing in a DIY band – screen printing – learning everything I could from books and online videos. I started releasing prints under the banner of Pepper Spray Pres s, where I’ve been fortunate to work with legends such as Daniel Johnston, Dave Navarro, Laura Albert (the author behind JT LeRoy), Al Diaz (former artistic partner to Jean Michael Basquiat), and many others. The more I fell in love with printmaking, the more I wanted to share the amazing skill with others. The idea of a community print shop and art space formed.

Capital Federation of Ideas, POINT5 | Image: Flickr

Capital District Federation of Ideas | Image: Flickr

It sounds like you were on a strong path to full time freelance, self directed work and then…you ended up getting a full time gig. Can you talk about the decision to go that direction?

After graduating from St. Rose, I had what I thought at the time was the perfect job: I was the Assistant Manager for a local bookstore for many years. It allowed me to have a steady income while also taking off any time I needed for shows or tours. After work, I would record bands in my home studio, or work on various video projects. It was also at this time that the non-profit formed Capital District Federation of Ideas that had a performance space on Madison Ave called Point Five. Unfortunately, the people running it, myself included, really didn’t know what we were doing. We were young and passionate, but that’s about all we had going. After about two years worth of amazing events and programming, we decided to close shop. We had ended up spending so much time and energy on keeping the lights on that it felt like we weren’t making any progress towards our stated mission. After it ended, I was so burnt out and disillusioned that I decided I needed to try something more stable, which is when I entered corporate America.

Capital District Federation of Ideas, POINT5 Performance with Early Swamp Baby (?) | Image: Flickr

Your passionate about your current side project. Printing, music and deep community integration. Can you tell use more about what drives you in this area and what you have been up to? I believe you are currently in the old Stage 1 space of the Albany Barn…

Whenever I’m passionate about something, I want to share it with the world, and teaching someone how to print is about the most satisfying thing I’ve ever done. I’ve also always been acutely aware of access and privilege and how it shapes opportunity. If I wasn’t fortunate enough to go to college and get a stable job, I would never have been able to afford the equipment to print, and a house to print in. Printmaking is such an amazing tool, both for artistic expression AND commercial possibilities, and I want to give more people access because as it stands now, if you don’t go to college for printmaking or don’t have the resources to do it yourself, you’ll likely never have the opportunity.

A couple of years ago, when this idea first began marinating in my head, I began purchasing the needed equipment. During that time, I was contacted by the family of local artist Steve Hazzard. He was a lifelong print maker, but he learned his trade back when dangerous chemicals were necessary to print, and those chemicals had made him sick to the point where he could no longer print. “Would you have any use for his old press?” he asked. The press was gorgeous and expensive, and if I could move it, it could be mine. I was so blown away by his generosity, and I had to share their gift with others. This was the big spark that set me off on this journey.

What is your long term vision for this project and why do you think its important?

I envision this space as something for everyone. A place for young students to dip their toes into printmaking BEFORE having to decide if it’s something they want to study in college. A place where studied print makers can apply their craft. (surprisingly, or maybe unsurprisingly, many who go to college for printmaking can’t afford the equipment or space to print). It’s a place where kids from a tough neighborhood can come in and print their own shirts, start their own fashion labels. It’s a place where film photography is still preferred over jpegs. It’s a place where hip-hop open mics and poetry readings can coexist. It’s a place for after-school programs. It’s a place where someone can learn to print without worrying about the judgement of others. It’s a place where I can print pizza boxes for local ghost kitchens to give them a leg up on their competition. I really envision the space as THE hub for local DIY-ers.

Recently, you were notified that you would need to find a new space for the print facilities. Can you share with us what you current situation is and what it is that you are ideally looking for as you transition out of this space and neighborhood?

Originally, the A lbany Barn heard about my idea and wanted to help. They provided me with their old gallery space in Arbor Hill, formerly called Stage One. In exchange, I would pay the utilities and teach printmaking at their Schenectady location a couple of times a month. I really felt like it was the perfect space. Perfect size, perfect neighborhood for what I want to accomplish. Unfortunately, the Barn doesn’t own the space – the A lbany Housing Authority does, and about a month after we had our grand opening, we were told that the AHA wanted the space back. I am not quite sure of the details or what happened. So…we are without a space. All of the equipment is still there, but I’m unable to use it, and they want it moved out by end of month (Thursday, 02.29).

Learning and Creating at CIRCUS | Image: Provided

I’ve spent the past couple of months meeting with community leaders, artists, and local businesses, trying to figure out our next step. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been sympathetic, and some have even offered space, but for one reason or another, they wouldn’t work. A couple of examples – the A lbany Community Investment Trust really liked our proposal, and their space in the south end (The Coliseum) is both promising and ideal, but they’re about to start new construction that would put us out at least a year. The Social Justice Center in Albany seems like a good match on paper, and they would be more than happy to have us occupy their second floor, but because of ADA restrictions, our ability to hold public events would be very limited. So as it stands now, we are still in need of a space.

EDITORS CHALLENGE: Have any location ideas or collaboration opportunities for Bryan? This feels like a great fit as a satellite location for an existing mission oriented / Not for Profit looking to expand it’s footprint outside city center. Hit him at the Circus website.