Click on any event title to get more information and tickets.
americana
Calendar of Events
S Sun
M Mon
T Tue
W Wed
T Thu
F Fri
S Sat
1 event,
Lost Leaders
Lost Leaders
This duo is a major find. NYC singer and irresistible personality Peter Cole, along with two-time GRAMMY-winner Byron Isaacs (current member of The Lumineers), have done weird tours and triumphant tours, placed lots of songs in film and TV, and maintained a sense of humor and artistic authenticity throughout. They've branched out from their early commitment to Americana and entered a retro pop/rock universe. Their anthemic songs push the national zeitgeist through vintage synthesizers, guitar pedals and tea-soaked vocal cords to create songs that are triumphant, unguarded and singable.
This twosome was born out of Levon Helm’s legendary Midnight Ramble and quickly earned attention in the pages of RELIX, No Depression and The Huffington Post. Their eponymously titled first album yielded the successful radio track “I’m Gonna Win” and started their journey through years of weirdness and magic which continues in their newest collection, Hungry Ghosts, an exploration of desire and acceptance.
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series: Ellis Paul
65th Anniversary Folk Heritage Series: Ellis Paul
He doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, and losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous folk-pop music that will keep playing in your head long after the show ends. Much like the artists who influenced him--everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to The Beatles--Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and turns them into provocative songs that are as timely as they are timeless.
His latest album, 55, is reflective, adult, and joyous. Written and produced during the pandemic shutdown, it addresses themes of romantic love, dreams of favorite faraway places, friendship, art, and bittersweet nostalgia.
His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram). He's the winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, and the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year.
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Bluegrass Jam
Bluegrass Jam
Our jams are all about sharing songs, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxing and casual evening of irresistible string band music.ALL are welcome to join the circle for an afternoon or evening playing and listening to classic grass, new grass and folk favorites. We sometimes refer to our genre as eclectic acoustic.
Red Spruce and Adirondack Song Dogs will kick off each session with a few tunes then open the floor for musicians to lead their favorite bluegrass tunes and folk music, backed up by the other pickers in the gathering. Simple tunes are always popular! So sharpen up your axe, come prepared with your song, and let us hear some good old fast, high and lonesome, some slow and low, or a good old favorite. All are welcome!
1 event,
Blake Christiana
Blake Christiana
"We tell stories, live and in the studio, truth and fiction,” says singer-songwriter Blake Christiana, founder and lead songwriter for this 4x Grammy balloted roots rock band. Originally from Schenectady, Blake has been bringing his songs to the Caffe Lena stage for two decades, first with Blake & The Family Dog, and then with Brooklyn-based Yarn. Now making his home in Raleigh, NC, the last couple years have seen him out playing solo when not on the road with Yarn. "You can hear him struggling with his feelings, whether it’s on a skittering country shuffle or on a mid-tempo folk ballad or a straight-ahead rocker. His . . . outstanding roots band has shared stages with Dwight Yoakam, Marty Stuart, Alison Krauss, and Leftover Salmon, among many others." Passionate, authentic and famously great at connecting with the people in the seats, Christiana's solo gigs are getting high marks from fans up and down the east coast.
The group was formed when Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces a little over six years ago. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Boo Reiners and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. NYS Music describes the band as “improv-laden … phenomenal chops … capturing the vocal harmonies and intonations led by Garcia … refreshing and fun,” and Cindy O. Herman of the Daily Item says, “Anyone who loves The Dead and appreciates a well detailed, thoughtful and respectful group of superb musicians artistically intercepting the music will have a spectacular night.” So grab your dancing shoes, embrace the tie-dye spirit, and join Deadgrass on a wild ride through a musical landscape where bluegrass meets psychedelic jamming, creating an unforgettable experience that will have you craving more long after the last note fades away.
0 events,
1 event,
Bright Series: Jenna Nicholls
Bright Series: Jenna Nicholls
Along with two packed houses of discerning listeners, we fell in love with Jenna Nicholls when she opened for Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams at our venue last spring. In the words of her newly acquired fans:
"Eclectic, personable, tear-jerking... it felt good to cry in front of all our friends."
"She took us to another time and place."
"Her songwriting is refreshingly different, her voice captivating."
Whether she’s belting out a New Orleans-style number on her ukulele, singing an original cowboy tune or lush ballad at the piano, this multi-instrumentalist gives vintage a new life.
She is an International Songwriting Competition finalist. Her work has been featured on ABC, NBC, and MTV and in several short films, full length productions and documentaries. Recently, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, shared the stage with Oscar Winner Glen Hansard, Amanda Palmer, Lucius, Joan as Policewoman. She’s performed in venues all over the world including the Beacon Theater NYC, and Carnegie Hall.
After quitting her day job a year ago, her star has been rising rapidly. It's a delight to welcome her to Caffe Lena for her first headline appearance in the Capital Region.
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Nate Sabat & Rakish
Nate Sabat & Rakish
Nate Sabat: Nate Sabat is well known to Caffe Lena audiences as the bassist for house favorite Mile Twelve. With upright bass as his sole instrument, Nate crafts wildly intricate arrangements. With original songs rooted in American folk music, he takes full advantage of the never-ending variety of sounds and textures the bass has to offer. GRAMMY-winning cellist Eugene Friesen says, “Nate has so much going for him: The ability to propel any groove with chops and subtlety, a sweet bow sound that can vocalize any melody, fiercely great intonation, and, most importantly, a musical intelligence and intuition that operates with a constant smile.”
Rakish: Violinist Maura Shawn Scanlin and guitarist Conor Hearn share a background in traditional Irish and Scottish music, which is why they named themselves after the Irish tune Rakish Paddy. “Rakish” also describes their jaunty approach to old traditional tunes and chamber music. Maura Shawn, a two-time U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion and a winner of the Glenfiddich Fiddle Competition, wields the technical skill of a classical violinist and the soul of a folk musician. Guitarist Conor was raised in the Irish music communities of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD. As a duo they have performed at venues and festivals across North America, and can be found teaching at fiddle camps across the country.
1 event,
Eastbound Jesus – Benefit for Comfort Food Community
Eastbound Jesus – Benefit for Comfort Food Community
Hailing from Washington County, Eastbound Jesus has grown into one of upstate's most popular roots bands, packing venues for over ten years. The sextet blends country, bluegrass, and straight up rock & roll. Gritty lead vocals backed by an abundance of harmonies, lapsteel, and banjo tell songs of the rural working class soul. Over the years they've developed a major following with their infectious energy that gets people cheering, smiling, and relishing a sound that is both traditional and refreshing.
This concert will be a fundraiser for Comfort Food Community, a Greenwich-based food access organization that uses the power of good food to end hunger, support local farms, and build strong, healthy communities. To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, visit https://www.comfortfoodcommunity.org/
1 event,
“A Joyful Noise!” Gospel Dinner led by Soulist Garland Nelson
“A Joyful Noise!” Gospel Dinner led by Soulist Garland Nelson
Saratoga will be thrilled to learn that A Joyful Noise is back! This is a soul-cleansing dinner hour of music directed by Soulist Garland Nelson. Nelson leads Lena's Inspirational Voices gospel choir for a late afternoon of joyful noise. Songs range from traditional gospel and contemporary church music to soulful pop classics. Audience participation is downright thunderous. It's impossible to stay quiet or in your seat as Garland Nelson stirs up the Spirit!
Dinner served to your table is an integral part of this cultural event and is included in your ticket price. Your plate will be heaped with traditional food from the Carribbean. Coffee and tea is included. Caffe Lena's drink and dessert menu will be available a la carte.
This event is made possible by the generous support of Dottie Pepper and David Normoyle.
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Lena Go Round – Songwriter Showcase with Erin Harkes
Lena Go Round – Songwriter Showcase with Erin Harkes
Musician/comedian Erin Harkes continues her monthly songwriters' series at Caffè Lena. This monthly showcase, curated and hosted by Harkes, spotlights rising talent, who take turns playing their songs and telling stories “in the round,” for an audience and for each other. Lena Go Round is inspired by the original music that has been the cornerstone of Caffè Lena’s 65 years (this year!) in operation, and is quickly becoming a must-see event in the Capital District.
The line up for January is Amélie, John Glenn, Drew Jacobs, and of course, Erin!
Amélie
Local singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Amélie takes inspiration from ‘60s and ‘70s folk rock to create acoustically driven narrative songs with lilting melodies and vocals somewhat reminiscent of Linda Perhacs. She released her debut single, “Ridgewood Sun,” in 2021, and in 2022, she released “Antietam,” the first in an ongoing series of songs, in a variety of styles, produced by one of her music heroes, Dave Nachmanoff. Her most recent release is 2024’s “Dreams of Marmalade,” an experiment in ‘60s sunshine pop, which showcases her love of elaborate harmonies and rhyming lyrics with a lot of syllables. Amélie is half of folk duo Question of the Century, who performed at Caffè Lena's “Beatle Caffè” in November 2024 and have done live sessions for WEXT and WSPN.
John Glenn
John Glenn is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his deeply personal and introspective music. Born in Austin, TX, and currently based in Albany, NY, Glenn is the creative force behind both the indie-rock band Stellar Young and the electronic project LiketheAstronaut. His work seamlessly blends intimate, heartfelt lyricism with diverse musical influences, reflecting both the complexities of his personal journey and his evolving creative vision.
Drew Jacobs
Drew Jacobs is an award-winning Songwriter and singer from Latham. He's performed in shows and festivals across the country including the South by Southwest Festival in Austin Texas. He's received local and national airplay including Sirius Satellite Radio. His latest CD "Get Your Ha-Ha's Out" was recorded live by WAMC Radio.
Erin Harkes
Local favorite Erin Harkes has been called the busiest woman in show biz (NYS Music). She is regularly voted Best Singer/Songwriter, Solo Musician and Comedian in the Capital Region by the Times Union Reader’s Poll and The Alt. She took home the 2020 Thomas Edison Award for Best Solo/Duo Artist of the Year.
Adding to her entertainment portfolio in 2012, Harkes decided to try her hand at standup comedy. Since then she’s performed in nearly every major club in NYC, Toronto and Montreal, as well as being a regular at Funny Bone Comedy Clubs across the country. She likes to say that music is her spouse and comedy is her mistress. She tries to give them equal amounts of love and attention. Whether singing songs or telling jokes, Harkes commands attention every time she steps foot on stage.
Erin began writing her own songs at age 19 and has released four albums of original material since then. Her first CD was aptly titled “Bar Napkins and Magic Markers” due to the crude way the lyrics were jotted down during her college years.
Her music comes from triumphs over tragedy. Though sometimes somber there’s always a resounding theme of resilience. The power of her voice and the emotion that comes through her lyrics make you want to sit and listen to every word. Erin’s lyrics tell stories of her life, sung through a big voice that’s often compared to Janis Joplin. Hearing Erin sing is a powerful experience that grabs anyone within earshot.
Erin’s spontaneity and willingness to perform won her a spot on “Battle of the Instant Bands” on the Jimmy Fallon show in April of 2010. Having only 20 minutes to prepare with an impromptu band made up of complete strangers, Erin won over both Jimmy Fallon and the studio audience by naming the band (“Fallon Angels”) and the song (“Free Jimmy”) – the band performed the song with Erin on vocals to an explosive audience response and easily won the contest.
Erin is regularly voted Best Singer/Songwriter, Solo Musician and Comedian in the Capital Region by the Times Union Reader’s Poll, The Alt and the Metroland. She has been the subject of several cover stories by all of those newspapers. She is definitely a local favorite. Erin has had the privilege to have shared the stage with national acts such as 10,000 Maniacs, Spin Doctors, Pat Benatar and one of her musical idols, Beth Hart. In comedy she has worked with Jeff Dye, Judy Gold, Demetri Martin, Craig Robinson and Mark Normand.
1 event,
Lee DeWyze
Lee DeWyze
Following his win on American Idol's Season 9, DeWyze set out to demonstrate his songwriting skills in addition to his stellar vocal chops. Over the past 15 years his emotional, authentic ballads have been heard in more than 100 TV shows, movies, trailers, and commercials, and on stages around the world.
DeWyze’s most recent studio album, Gone For Days, is a soul-searching homage to small town life, lush nature, nostalgia and yearning. With shades of his idols Cat Stevens and Paul Simon, the profound yet frank songs are his most honorable and vulnerable to date. It's hitting the sweet spot of fans, rapidly rising to #1 on the iTunes Singer-Songwriter Charts following its release in September, 2024
1 event,
Momentum Series: The Suitcase Junket
Momentum Series: The Suitcase Junket
One of the defining features of The Suitcase Junket’s music is the use of unconventional instruments and repurposed materials. Matt Lorenz, who performs as The Suitcase Junket, is a homesteader currently living in rural Massachusetts. He often creates his instruments from salvaged items like old suitcases, gas cans, and other discarded objects, which adds a distinct and raw quality to the sound. Growing up in Cavendish, Vermont, Lorenz began playing piano at age five, and later took up violin, saxophone, and guitar. During his years at Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts, he studied music and adaptive instrument design, a pursuit that included building a prototype for a drummer who couldn’t use their legs, where they’d be able to play the bass drum and hi-hat through a system of pulleys. After college, he headed to Europe on a $150 plane ticket, ran out of money in Barcelona, and spent a year playing music in the streets. “That’s where I learned how to sing loud, which got me figuring out what my voice could do,” Lorenz notes. Once he’d returned to Amherst, he formed the band Rusty Belle with his sister Kate and, several years later, started The Suitcase Junket with the aid of a guitar he’d found in a dumpster. Lorenz chose the name as a nod to his longtime love of collecting old suitcases, including an antique that he’s refurbished into a bass drum, and to a secondary definition of junket, i.e. “a pleasure excursion.”
Matt Lorenz’s vision, manifest in The Suitcase Junket, developed in the tension between the grand and the solitary. Grand in its imagery, sound, and staging. Solitary in its thrift and self-reliance. What instruments he requires, Lorenz builds from scratch and salvage. What parts five players would perform, he performs alone. The spectacle of his one-man set bears constant comparison to legends of showmanship, brilliance, madness, and invention.
While audiences are captivated by his solitary form and the show itself, Lorenz, who homesteads with rescue dogs and chickens in rural Western Massachusetts, is most serious about the songs. He has been building a catalog, writing a world into existence. Solitary on stage and on the road, his mind is crowded with characters, narratives, voices, imagery, sounds as wide and varied as mountain throat singers and roadhouse juke boxes, plus newsreels of the planet’s destruction and salvage. With his latest project, The End is New, which he refers to as “doom-folk,” Lorenz’s grand vision for the song overrides the how of it.
“The things I value are under attack,” he reflects. “And writing songs and making art are the methods I have for responding. I have tried to use my observations and reflections of the world bent through my fun-house-mirror mind to show what I see; a planet stressed. ... There’s a heavy mix of hope and desperation in the sound and lyrically I was trying to be a mirror to society using truth, myth, confessions and stories.” In addition to his musical pursuits, Lorenz is passionate about coffee, gardening, bees, dogs, birds, mushrooms, tinctures, making his own wine and maple sugaring season.
The Momentum Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in honor of Thom O'Neil.
2 events,
Little Folks Series featuring LITTLE ROOTS
Little Folks Series featuring LITTLE ROOTS
Folk duo Little Roots is Annie Lynch Stevenson and Maggie Shar, who believe that music is for Everyone! Maggie and Annie select and write tried and true old-time tunes and American folksongs that are enjoyable for people of all ages. Their show is fun and accessible, including banjo, guitar, harmony singing, movement songs and Crankies! This show is engaging folk music for kids, that grown ups like too.
Made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.
Ryan Montbleau (Solo)
Ryan Montbleau (Solo)
Usually seen fronting his powerhouse band, Ryan Montbleau’s intimate, honest lyrics and spirited, dynamic delivery create a whole different impact when stripped-down for a solo show. “It’s still me just pouring my heart out,” he says, as he’s been doing since the early 2000s. NPR’s Mountain Stage compared his “eloquent, soulful songwriting” to Bill Withers and James Taylor, while Relix hailed his “poetic Americana.” With a passionate fanbase, Montbleau’s live shows are nothing if not communal events.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.
- There are no events on this day.