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live music venues in Saratoga Springs
Nate Sabat & Rakish
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesNate 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.
Eastbound Jesus – Benefit for Comfort Food Community
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesHailing 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/
Lena Go Round – Songwriter Showcase with Erin Harkes
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesMusician/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.
Lee DeWyze
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesFollowing 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
Ryan Montbleau (Solo)
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesUsually 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.
Goodnight Moonshine feat. Molly of Red Molly
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesThis duo combines the evocative voice and songwriting of Molly Venter, known for her sublime singing in vocal trio Red Molly, with husband, Oberlin-trained guitarist Eben Pariser of New Orleans style jazz band Roosevelt Dime.
Venter’s voice, which can be called both “biker-chick smoky” (New Haven Register), and “like silk” (American Songwriter Magazine), pairs with trance-induced stream-of-consciousness writing in songs that probe the depths of inner experience.
Their show is punctuated by banter that openly explores the complexities of marriage, the Creator, birth, life, death and the roller coaster that is everyday life. For Venter and Pariser, It is the way they make space for each other while staying true to themselves that defines this music, and marriage.
Hot Club of Saratoga
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesStep into the vibrant atmosphere of 1930's Paris with Upstate New York’s premier gypsy swing ensemble, Hot Club of Saratoga! Specializing in the timeless sounds of Django Reinhardt, this dynamic group blends virtuosic musicianship, intricate rhythms, and heartfelt passion to create an unforgettable evening of music. Their music brings the magic of hot swing to life.
Meet the Artists:
Chuck Kish (Rhythm Guitar): Chuck brings the signature “la pompe” rhythm style to life, providing both chordal backup and percussive drive. Self-taught and a dabbling luthier, Chuck even plays a guitar he built himself!
Dylan Perrillo (String Bass): A conservatory-trained bassist, Dylan has toured with legends like Stéphane Wrembel and Aurore Voilqué, holding the ensemble together with his inventive and versatile playing.
Tucker James (Violin): A sought-after violinist and fiddler with a degree in Violin Performance, Tucker transitions seamlessly between jazz, classical, and folk styles, giving his all to every performance.
Jonathan Greene (Woodwinds): With lyrical phrasing and a mastery of multiple styles, Jonathan has shared stages with the likes of Jay Leno and Marcus Roberts, headlined DjangoFest NW, and performed at Freihofer's Saratoga Jazz Festival.
Brad Brose (Lead Guitar): After years performing in legendary jazz manouche clubs across Europe alongside artists like Tchavolo Schmitt and Stochelo Rosenberg, Brad brings his authentic Parisian swing to the stage whenever possible.
This ensemble’s collective experience and talent shine through in every note, whether you’re an avid fan of gypsy jazz or experiencing this timeless genre for the first time. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the lively and elegant world of Hot Club of Saratoga.
Let the music transport you—straight to the heart of 1930s Paris!
Crys Matthews
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesJoin us for an unforgettable evening with Crys Matthews, hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie” and one of the most compelling voices in social justice music today. A powerful lyricist, Matthews weaves compassionate dissent, hope, and love into songs that resonate deeply with audiences, tackling themes like immigration, the opioid crisis, Black Lives Matter, and gun safety.
Her critically acclaimed album Changemakers solidifies her place among legendary social justice artists like Sweet Honey in the Rock and Holly Near. Known for her warm heart, strong voice, and ability to bridge divides, Matthews uplifts and inspires, offering a much-needed message of hope and encouragement in challenging times.
A seasoned performer, Matthews has graced prestigious stages across the country, including Lincoln Center (as the 2017 New Song Music and Performance Competition grand prize winner), the Kennedy Center, Sundance Film Festival, and Kerrville Folk Festival. Her TED Talk, “Sing, Don’t Shout—An Alternative Approach,” reflects her philosophy of using music as a tool for connection and conversation.
The Mallett Brothers Trio
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United Stateshis band of brothers excels on the live stage, bringing high-energy and an authenticity that fans love. They typically play this area with their full five-piece rock band. Tonight, as Luke and Will Mallett take the Caffe Lena stage in the footsteps of their father, long-time folk favorite David Mallett, they're leaving the drums back home and creating a special, intimate acoustic trio for our venue.
In the spirit of folk music, Mallett Brothers songs are filled with vivid imagery that captures the spirit of rugged Maine landscape where they make their home. They "punch it into high gear" with rock and country instrumentation, creating "gutsy country rock" (Americana UK) that has been celebrated in the pages of Relix, No Depression and Americana Highways.
May Erlewine
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesWith substantive songs and a charismatic stage presence, Michigan's May Erlewine has earned a dedicated following in the indie folk world. Her lyrics are drawn from real life experiences, creating songs that embrace the struggles, joys, and complexities of everyday people. She delivers her music with a warmth that fills the room and surrounds the audience.
Erlewine’s values always follow her on stage, where she urges the importance of environmental advocacy, social justice, creative empowerment and community building as necessary work for all of us. Her words bring solace to weary hearts, offer a light in the darkness, and hold space for the pain and joy of being alive in these times.
Bright Series: Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesHailed by No Depression as “the future of bluegrass”, Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road bring a fresh and dynamic energy to Appalachian stringband music. Rooted in tradition yet brimming with innovation, this award-winning ensemble delivers a powerful blend of storytelling, virtuosic musicianship, and boundary-pushing creativity.
At just 22, North Carolina’s Liam Purcell has already made waves in the bluegrass world—earning accolades like the RockyGrass Instrumental Championships on mandolin, banjo, and guitar and leading Cane Mill Road to the IBMA Momentum Band of the Year award. Drawing inspiration from his Deep Gap roots near Doc Watson’s home and his studies at Berklee College of Music, Liam bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, breathing new life into the genre.
Their latest album, Yellow Line, showcases Liam’s commitment to honoring Appalachian music while adding his own innovations, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. From heartfelt originals to driving bluegrass jams, every performance transports listeners to the front porch of Liam’s mountain home.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road live in Caffè Lena’s intimate listening room—a night of top-tier musicianship and unforgettable bluegrass magic.
The Bright Series is made possible by a generous gift from Kevin & Claudia Bright.
Alice Howe & Freebo
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesAlice Howe’s voice is a rare gift—clear, soulful, and undeniably captivating. Her singing carries a timeless beauty that transports listeners back to the golden era of folk and Americana. She captures the true essence of roots music—honest, pure, and deeply emotional. Joining her is the legendary Freebo, a true folk-rock-blues icon. Freebo first gained national attention as Bonnie Raitt’s bass player, a role he held for a decade starting in 1971. Freebo's bass lines helped define a generation of folk-rock and can be heard on countless classic recordings. He has toured with legendary artists like John Mayall, CSN, Maria Muldaur, Ringo Starr, Dr. John, Neil Young, and many more. Freebo is also a gifted and distinctive singer/songwriter.
Peak Jazz Series: Giacomo Smith
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesSaratoga-born jazz clarinetist and saxophonist Smith runs Kansas Smitty’s jazz club in London and regularly plays there and at the historic Soho venue, Ronnie Scott’s. Pursuing the ground-breaking sound of Dave Brubeck, Smith is a conservatory-trained jazz and classical artist who leads his band with verve and virtuosity.
Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesAll are welcome to gather at Lena’s from Noon to 1 PM on the last Friday of each month to enjoy musical memories and new discoveries. The playlist is selected by a different community member each month from the Captain Fun Listening Library of vinyl records in Lena’s lobby. Chuck “Rochmon” Vosganian spins the records and gets the conversation flowing. Bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee and tea are provided.
The Captain Fun Listening Library occupying the north wall in the Caffè Lena lobby is comprised of 1,516 vinyl albums and several hundred CDs selected from Al “Captain Fun” McKenney’s expertly curated collection. This treasure trove of folk, blues and jazz was left us in 2015 and we share it through our monthly listening hour, as Al wished. Enjoy the memories these records bring back, and dig deep into American roots music.
Cliff Eberhardt
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United States"The missing link between Paul McCartney and Cole Porter" - Seth Rogovoy
Eberhardt's guitar and piano melodies range from pop to folk to old-style jazz, with lyrics that find fresh, incisive ways to address the familiar themes of life gone good and bad. From melancholy to sweet optimism, Cliffs songs are the product of a mature and tested performer with the highest level of craftsmanship. A driving force of the Greenwich Village New Folk movement and beloved by his peers, Cliff's songs have been covered by Richie Havens, Buffy St. Marie, Erasure, Lucy Kaplansky and the folk superstar band "Cry, Cry, Cry" (Dar Williams, Richard Shindell, Lucy Kaplansky).
Playwright’s Jam / 1st Sunday / 1:30pm – 4pm
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United States
Roomful of Blues
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesHailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves,” this boisterous, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger.
Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970), their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos, who brings fresh, soulful energy to their timeless sound, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax, Carl "Geerz" Gerhard on trumpet, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums.
With five GRAMMY nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, thousands of shows worldwide, and collaborations with legends like B.B. King and Eric Clapton to their critically acclaimed albums on Alligator Records, this “best little big band in the blues” (Blues Music Magazine) guarantees a night of foot-stomping, hand-clapping fun.
Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to get our listening room fans swaying in their seats. Roomful keeps on rockin’!
The Momentum Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in honor of Thom O'Neil.
Mindy Smith
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United States“Smith’s best songs sound like little miracles.”– USA Today
Join us for a night of heartfelt music and storytelling as acclaimed singer-songwriter Mindy Smith graces the stage at Caffè Lena. Known for her deeply vulnerable lyrics and genre-defying vocals, Mindy has carved a unique path in the Americana and folk world.
This performance celebrates her latest album, Quiet Town, a stunning reflection on love, loss, connection, and renewal. With six studio albums and collaborations with legends like Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, and Matraca Berg, Mindy’s career spans two decades of crafting music that resonates deeply with listeners.
Her hauntingly beautiful rendition of Parton’s "Jolene" was declared by Dolly herself as her favorite version of the iconic song, and Mindy’s signature blend of emotional honesty and musical grace continues to captivate audiences.
Others might struggle against or dismiss vulnerable thoughts and feelings, but Smith has built a career out of expressing the most human of vulnerabilities. In doing so, she lets listeners know it’s normal, and even healthy, to fully experience such fundamentally human feelings.
“I write for one purpose,” she’s been quoted as saying, “and that’s to figure out how to live in the world I am in."
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of Americana’s most celebrated voices.
Driftwood
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesHailing from Upstate New York, Driftwood brings their genre-blending sound to Caffè Lena for an unforgettable evening of music that’s equal parts heartfelt and high-energy. Known for their roots in folk, bluegrass, and rock, the band’s live shows are a celebration—dynamic, intimate, and brimming with joy.
With Joe Kollar, Dan Forsyth, Claire Byrne, and Joey Arcuri at the helm, Driftwood showcases a unique, collaborative approach to songwriting. Expect soaring harmonies, electrifying instrumentals, and stories that resonate deeply with every listener. Whether they’re delivering hard-driving rhythms with blazing energy or stripping it all back for a raw, emotional ballad, Driftwood's live show feels like a shared experience—something honest and unrepeatable.
Their latest album, December Last Call, marks a creative homecoming for the band, blending powerful new sounds with the live energy they’re so beloved for. From foot-stomping anthems to hushed, poignant moments, Driftwood creates a show that feels personal and communal—a place where everyone belongs.
Sue Foley
caffe lena 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, NY, United StatesPrepare for a captivating musical journey with One Guitar Woman, from Sue Foley’s Grammy® nominated solo acoustic tribute to female pioneers of guitar. Foley’s much-anticipated album on Stony Plain Records was released on March 29, 2024. “The kind of album that will live forever.“ — Americana Highways
One Guitar Woman is more than a tribute show. Foley doesn’t merely cover these artists’ songs; she absorbs their style and inhabits the soul of the music. Her guitar work is so deep and natural that it seems to rise from the same roots that gave birth to the originals, while her vibrant vocals bring new life to the lyrics and make the songs her own.
Esteemed music writer Hal Horowitz notes in Rock & Blues Muse, “The often spellbinding One Guitar Woman … is an enlightening look into her remarkable talents, filtered through the lens of a more intimate expression of the blues.”
Sue Foley is an acclaimed guitarist, singer/songwriter and writer who began her professional career in her teens. She’s released thirteen albums and has garnered several awards, including Traditional Female Artist of the Year at The Blues Music Awards in Memphis four consecutive times. (2020/22/23/24).