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things to do in Saratoga
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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.
1 event,
3 events,
Los Sugar Kings : Free with Saratoga New Year Badge : Hot Sounds of the Caribbean
Los Sugar Kings : Free with Saratoga New Year Badge : Hot Sounds of the Caribbean
With a unique roots-rock-reggae repertoire, Los Sugar Kings draw from Afro-Cuban styles, Salsa, and Rumba-Flamenca music. Their dynamic live shows pull the audience in close, with both sides entering a space that's passionate, thoughtful, and joyful.
Frontman Patino Vazquez (vocals, guitar, tres), is a charismatic showman who is at once approachable and mesmerizing. Add in the African-influenced undulations of Mikael Mersha (vocals, bass/contrabass), the soaring, take-you-for-a-ride solos and harmonic accompaniment by Daniel Abreu (saxophone, piano, vocals), and the soulful voice and talents of Tony Curtis Hall (drums, percussion, vocals) and you've got a party breaking out wherever Los Sugar Kings perform. What a great way to heat up your New Year's Eve!
Los Sugar Kings : Free with Saratoga New Year Badge : Hot Sounds of the Caribbean
Los Sugar Kings : Free with Saratoga New Year Badge : Hot Sounds of the Caribbean
With a unique roots-rock-reggae repertoire, Los Sugar Kings draw from Afro-Cuban styles, Salsa, and Rumba-Flamenca music. Their dynamic live shows pull the audience in close, with both sides entering a space that's passionate, thoughtful, and joyful.
Frontman Patino Vazquez (vocals, guitar, tres), is a charismatic showman who is at once approachable and mesmerizing. Add in the African-influenced undulations of Mikael Mersha (vocals, bass/contrabass), the soaring, take-you-for-a-ride solos and harmonic accompaniment by Daniel Abreu (saxophone, piano, vocals), and the soulful voice and talents of Tony Curtis Hall (drums, percussion, vocals) and you've got a party breaking out wherever Los Sugar Kings perform. What a great way to heat up your New Year's Eve!
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1 event,
The Nields
The Nields
The Nields have been lighting up the indie circuit since 1991, originally traveling the continent as a five-piece band. Today, sisters Nerissa and Katryna perform as a duo often compared to The Indigo Girls and The Roches. The Chicago Tribune reports, “As the work of the Everly Brothers or the McGarrigle Sisters has amply demonstrated, there are few sounds as sublime as close harmonies rendered by siblings. In the case of western Massachusetts folk rockers the Nields, the siblings are sisters Nerissa and Katryna Nields, and their inimitable vocal blend is a disarming mix of clean folk harmonies and clenched Generation-X angst.”
The Nields have been lauded for their gorgeous, lilting, sibling harmonies, their wise, classic, folk/pop songs, their hilarious banter on stage, and their generosity and warmth in performance and engagement with their fans. “A masterful mix of modern folk with an alternative edge” (Minneapolis Star Tribune), and The Austin Chronicle raves, “If there’s one constant here, it’s The Nields sisters beautifully sweet vocal harmonies that sound eerily like the Roches singing Lush in a really big room. It's infectious stuff.”
2 events,
Little Folks: The Nields
Little Folks: The Nields
For more than 30 years, Nerissa & Katryna Nields have charmed audiences with their generation-bridging music. Breaking out in the ‘90s as an alt-rock band, they became that rare band that teens and parents could agree on. Once they became parents themselves, they began sprinkling shows for little ones into their tours, playing sets of family-friendly originals with folk classics, creating an engaging, all-ages experience.
The sisters evoke the spirit of Pete Seeger with audience sing-alongs. Expect your kids to shout out answers to their questions, and participate in raucous clap-alongs to new classics like "Molly the Donkey." The atmosphere is a joyful, participatory experience where children and adults alike join in song and laughter.
Raised in a musical family, the Nields sisters learned harmony around the kitchen table. Their deep connection to folk music, passed down from their parents, informs every performance. As Nerissa says, "Singing together is heaven on earth." Their vibrant shows reflect that belief, celebrating the power of music to bring people together.
Made possible by the generous support of Kevin & Claudia Bright.
Five Decades at Caffe Lena: The Joe Deuel Photo Collection
Five Decades at Caffe Lena: The Joe Deuel Photo Collection
If you've been to a show at Caffe Lena, you know Joe Deuel as the man who creates the venue's pristine sound. When he steps out from behind the soundboard with his camera, he captures tender and unique images of live performances, as well as life behind the scenes at America's Oldest Coffeehouse. Much of the 2013 coffee table book, Caffe Lena: Inside America's Legendary Folk Music Coffeehouse, comprised Joe's photos. Until now, we've never had the chance to hear him talk about these photos, his memories of Lena, and his interactions with artists dating back to the 1970s.
Executive Director Sarah Craig, who has worked alongside Joe for the past 30 years, will be guiding the conversation and taking your questions as Joe shares his iconic photos spanning five decades, as well as plenty of never-before-seen images.
In addition engineering sound for Caffe Lena, Joe has worked as a photographer for several publications, including "Eye on Saratoga," "The Source Magazine," "Buzz" and "Saratoga Living." His work has been seen in nationally distributed CDs by Dave Van Ronk, Rosalie Sorrells, The Highwaymen, The Figgs, Chandler Travis, and many others. He has exhibited in various invitational shows including Saratoga Visual Arts, High Rock Review, the juried Albany/Troy Photo Regional, "Impasse and Motion" at Saratoga Arts, and "A Transitional Interpretation: American Roots Music By Five Photographers" at Crandall Folklife Center.
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Super 400
Super 400
We're not going to pretend that this original power trio counts as folk music, but we are thrilled to bring them to the Caffe Lena stage because their deep-hearted songs are fabulous, they love the room, and wow do they know how to connect with an audience!
Joe Daley (drums) and Kenny Hohman (guitar) have been playing together since middle school. Lori Friday (bass) joined them in 2002 to form Super 400, a band that has now been honored by their hometown of Troy with a "Super 400 Day," and induction into the Capital Region Eddies Hall of Fame.
Musically, they’re exploring new dynamics of light, shade and nuance these days. The shuffling, slinky fan favorite “Honey and Coffee” might be the most infectious and soulful number in their repertoire, while the atmospheric stomper “Thank the Moonlight,” with Lori on lead vocals, proves they’ve still got fresh, thumping grooves. Life changes have also shaped the direction of the trio’s songwriting: two of their more recent tunes, the buoyant and melodic rockers “Dream of You” and “Only Child,” are intensely personal.
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Open Mic Night
Open Mic Night
HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:
Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Full table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.
1 event,
Storytelling Open Mic featuring Claire Nolan
Storytelling Open Mic featuring Claire Nolan
Claire Nolan enjoys telling myths, literary tales, and folktales. As the seventh of ten children, she has a wealth of personal stories. Claire can be found telling tales locally at Caffè Lena in Saratoga, Proctor’s Theater in Schenectady, the Performing Arts Center at UAlbany, and Thacher Park. Claire’s love of history has sparked her interest in learning about women who have changed the world. She tells their stories in personae.
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Poetry Open Mic Featuring Susan Oringel
Poetry Open Mic Featuring Susan Oringel
Susan Oringel is a poet, writer, and psychologist in Upstate NY. Her poetry collections include Carnevale (David Robert Books, 2023) and My Coney Island (Finishing Line Press 2019), She has published in various literary journals and has also served as co-translator of a collection of Latin American poetry: Messengers of Rain, published by Groundwoods Press, 2002 & 2011. She taught creative writing at Hudson Valley Community College and at the Pyramid Life Center’s Women’s Writing Retreat. Fellowships and awards include Individual Artist award from the Albany-Schenectady League of Arts, a fellowship from the Vermont Studio Center, and an SOS award sponsored by the New York State Council of the Arts.
1 event,
Gareth Pearson
Gareth Pearson
"Fast becoming one of the world's most renowned instrumental guitarists" (BBC Radio Wales), Welsh guitar virtuoso Gareth Pearson is a scion in the musical family tree that includes Tommy Emmanuel, Stefan Grossman, Chet Atkins and Merle Travis, as well as newcomers Christie Lenée and Daniel Champagne.
Nicknamed "The Welsh Tornado" for his fretboard pyrotechnics, his original pieces draw from a rich palette of folk, classical, funk, pop and jazz. His fast-growing international reputation is built on phenomenal musicianship and charming, humorous stagecraft.
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Allison Lupton, Shane Cook and Kyle Waymouth
Allison Lupton, Shane Cook and Kyle Waymouth
Canadian singer-songwriter, flutist, and nationally acclaimed traditional singer Allison Lupton enchants listeners with ballads and tunes reminiscent of an earlier time. Allison is now touring her album “Words of Love,” along with heavy hitters-- Canadian and US Grand National fiddle champion Shane Cook and CFMA Solo Instrumental Artist of the Year and Canadian Grand Master Step Dance champion Kyle Waymouth. Together their live show is a glorious mix of beautiful story songs, electrifying fiddle tunes and dazzling step dance united by the trio’s warm and frequently humourous stage presence. Lupton merges contemporary folk lyrics with crystal clear, elegant Celtic and bluegrass melody and instrumentation. "Allison possesses a voice which is as crystal clear as mountain spring water. There is also a delightful innocence to it which when combined with her perfect diction delivers every word crisply and clearly to the listener's ear." -Fatea
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Peak Jazz Series: Old Friends Beckoned/New Sounds Reckoned
Peak Jazz Series: Old Friends Beckoned/New Sounds Reckoned
Steckler / Ikawa / Plaxico / Lewis brings together four mighty jazz musicians with rich, intersecting histories. Their project, Old Friends Beckoned / New Sounds Reckoned (Skydeck), blends their considerable individual artistry into a collective voice through original compositions where personal prowess is set aside in favor of deeper collaboration. The result is a seamless, emotive sound that resonates with listeners.
Capital Region native Matt Steckler (Matty Stecks), described as “delightfully eclectic” by Downbeat and “inspired by greater artistic depth” by Jazz Times, is a versatile performer and composer. Primarily a saxophonist and woodwind specialist, he also incorporates vocals, keyboards, percussion, and electronic media into his performances. Recognized for his work with groups like Dead Cat Bounce and Persiflage, Steckler has performed at major festivals in North America and Europe, always bringing a dynamic, holistic approach to the stage.
Pianist/composer Yayoi Ikawa, born in Tokyo and raised musically in New York, embodies creativity and empathy in her playing. Her 2004 release Angel Eyes showcased her talent in a straight-ahead jazz piano trio, while her self-produced Color of Dreams highlighted her original compositions. Ikawa, who has performed at festivals across the U.S., Japan, Italy, and more, believes jazz is a social art form and strives to pass it on to future generations.
Bassist Lonnie Plaxico integrates the rigorous technique of classical, the improvisation of jazz, and the rawness of funk. His career has seen collaborations with the likes of Sonny Sitt, Alice Coltrane, Stanley Turrentine, Joe Sample, Abbey Lincoln, and Dizzy Gillespie. Plaxico has also released five albums as a leader, each met with critical acclaim.
Drummer Tony Lewis, a South Bronx native, has played with Little Richard, Sting, B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, Cyndi Lauper, Michael Hill’s Blues Mob, and several others. A graduate of NYC's famous LaGuardia High School of the Arts, his wide-ranging career spans jazz, blues, and funk, with music rooted in his deep connection to family and tradition.
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.
1 event,
Open Mic Night
Open Mic Night
HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:
Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Full table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.
1 event,
JAZZ at Caffè Lena: The Chuck Lamb Duo with Special Guest Joe Locke
JAZZ at Caffè Lena: The Chuck Lamb Duo with Special Guest Joe Locke
The JAZZ at Caffe Lena series is hosted by resident composer, pianist, and jazz master Chuck Lamb, with support from music producer Joel Moss. Each month, Lamb invites a top-flight jazz artist to join his trio on stage. Lamb, a member of the Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002, is not only an exciting and emotive pianist but also a prolific composer of jazz, fusion, classical, and world music. Through these collaborations, the artists stretch their creative boundaries, exploring new musical landscapes and creating spontaneous, exhilarating performances.
January 2025 kicks off with, a show with the Chuck Lamb Duo, and Chuck's special guest, vibraphonist Joe Locke. This show will be piano, bass and vibes.
Locke is widely considered to be one of the major voices of his instrument. He has performed and recorded with a diverse range of notable musicians, including Grover Washington Jr, Raul Midón, Kenny Barron, Eddie Henderson, Cecil Taylor, Dianne Reeves, Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter, The Beastie Boys, the Münster Symphony Orchestra, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, the Orchestra da Camera della Sardegna and the Lincoln, Nebraska Symphony.
“Not only has he mastered an instrument that has catapulted only a handful of players to the forefront of modern jazz – but he has done so in a way that transcends mere technique and establishes him as a unique and adventurous musical voice.”
— Derek Richardson, San Francisco Bay Guardian
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.
1 event,
Nordlys Global Voices: FRÄNDER
Nordlys Global Voices: FRÄNDER
This is going to be a truly exciting evening of world music with one of the Nordic countries' top roots music bands. Influenced by first-gen Nordic folk rock acts like Hedningarna, Garmarna and Hoven Droven, but just as much by Led Zeppelin, Fairport Convention, Jethro Tull, and Steeleye Span, FRÄNDER is focused on making music their way. “This is not about tradition, this is about us, about today,” says band member Gabbi Dluzewski. “Even though the band plays exclusively on acoustic instruments, it rocks.”
With seductive harmonies, heavy grooves and mesmerizing energy FRÄNDER draws on the musical traditions of Sweden and Estonia to create unforgettable shows. Infusing the music of their ancestors with modern excitement, the five-piece folk rock band comprises family members Gabbi and Daniel Dluzewski (on Swedish låtmandola and bass, respectively), their fiddling sister Natasja Dluzewska (all of whom grew up in the old Viking stronghold of Håga near Uppsala), and Estonian flutist Säde Tatar, who is Gabbi’s wife.
"Fränder delivers a fantastic, stellar set of masterfully songs with engaging vocals, scorching fiddles, evocative flutes, and a powerful rhythm section." - World Music Central
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.
1 event,
Misty Blues: MLK Weekend Live Tribute To Odetta
Misty Blues: MLK Weekend Live Tribute To Odetta
Odetta (1930–2008) was a groundbreaking American folksinger and civil rights activist whose music blended gospel, blues, and traditional folk. Her commanding contralto and emotional style provided musical inspiration for the civil rights movement. It was Dr. King himself who named her The Queen of American Folk Music. As a musician and activist, she was a major influence on Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Odetta played Caffe Lena's stage nine times between 1992 and 2002.
This two-album passion project has been brewing since the mid-1990s for the lead singer of Misty Blues, Gina Coleman, whose encounter with Odetta became a seminal moment in Coleman's career. The band's first tribute to Odetta spent 24 consecutive weeks at number 1 on the Roots Music Report Traditional Folk Album Chart. This success inspired them follow up with a live tribute album in March of 2024.
On stage, Coleman channels Odetta's majesty and vocal power, backed by a refined, mature band that is fully committed to the project. The songs include Civil Rights era classics This Little Light of Mine, Oh Freedom, Take This Hammer, Jim Crow Blues, Alabama Bound and Hold On.
1 event,
Open Mic Night
Open Mic Night
HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:
Every Monday. All ages, all styles. Originals encouraged but not required.
Please leave a $3-$5 donation for our non-profit organization if you’re able to.
Sign-up is 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM / Show at 7:00 / 2 songs or 10 minutes /
Sign up is first come first serve
You are welcome to use our Yamaha studio upright acoustic piano or acoustic Martin guitar. We can play your MP3 backing track through our sound system. You are welcome to bring amps and drums BUT set up and break down is part of your 10 minutes.
Full table service (see menu). No alcohol! We like to keep our Monday nights family friendly.
Play Nice! We foster a diverse community that has a great time making art and helping one another get better. Excessive profanity, explicit sexual themes, and “humor” that unkindly targets a specific group undermines this goal. It is up to the discretion of the host to enforce the house standards.
1 event,
Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here”
Rochmon Record Club Listening Party: Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here”
On Tuesday, January 21, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to, and learn about Pink Floyd’s 9th studio album, “Wish You Were Here”. Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 pm with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon”.
Pink Floyd’s 1975 follow up to “The Dark Side Of The Moon”, “Wish You Were Here”, is Roger Water’s lyrical diatribe about the music business. On it’s release reviewers didn’t get it, but all these years later everyone finally caught up to Rochmon’s opinion and consider “Wish You Were Here” one of the greatest albums of all time. Built around “Shine on You Crazy Diamond”, the 9-song tribute to founder Syd Barret, “Have A Cigar”, “Wish You Were Here” and “Welcome To The Machine” We’ll listen to the album “Wish You Were Here” on vinyl! As always Rochmon will have some surprises in store! For Rochmaniacs at a distance, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV. Tickets at caffelena.org
A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs (caffelena.org), at The Linda (thelinda.org) in Albany and the Park Theater (parktheatergf.com) in Glens Falls. Programming varies by location, please check websites for tickets and show information or go to rochmon.com for more information.
1 event,
NY Focus Presents “Journalism in Challenging Times”
NY Focus Presents “Journalism in Challenging Times”
"Journalism in Challenging Times"
A Vital Conversation on the Crisis Facing Local News
Local journalism is in a state of crisis in New York, where between 2004 and 2019, 40 percent of local outlets shuttered and many more have seen their resources slashed. Now, in a state with a budget bigger than 90 percent of the world’s countries, 17 counties are down to just 1 newspaper, making it more difficult for the public to hold elected officials accountable, or agree on shared sets of information.
Join us for an urgent discussion on the future of local news at "Journalism in Challenging Times." The event, featuring a presentation by veteran New York journalist Rex Smith (followed by a Q&A), supports the groundbreaking reporting of New York Focus, the nonprofit newsroom that is dedicated to uncovering how the state really works.
100% of proceeds benefit NY Focus.
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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.
2 events,
Songwriting Club with Girl Blue
Songwriting Club with Girl Blue
Calling all Songwriters! Come to Caffè Lena on Saturday 1/25 from 12 - 1:30 PM to be a part of our Songwriting Club! Our featured songwriter is Girl Blue.
* Hear a Seasoned Songwriter's perspective/process
* Discuss Songwriting tips & strategies
* Work on a prompt
* With Hosts Reese Fulmer and Matt Griffin
* $5 Donation
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.
1 event,
Open Mic Night
Open Mic Night
Play your song on the Caffe’s famous stage! During the past three decades, Lena’s open mic has been recognized with “Best Of” awards from Metroland Magazine, The Alt Weekly, The Saratogian Reader’s Poll and Saratoga’s Fab Five. Just like at our weekend shows, all attention is focused on the stage.
1 event,
The Michael Mills Magic Show
The Michael Mills Magic Show
He's back! After a four-month run of shows at Caffe Lena in 2024, magician Mills returns with an all-new show featuring jaw-dropping surprises, quick wit, and an unforgettable good time.
Michael’s performance is playful, surprising, and packed with moments that will leave you laughing, amazed, and wondering if you can trust your own eyes.
This show is the perfect way to hit pause on life's to-do list and just have a great time. Bring your curiosity—and someone to share the 'Did that really just happen?!' moments with!
Recommended for ages 14+
3 events,
Irish Music Ensemble With Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
Irish Music Ensemble With Oona Grady and James Gascoyne
10 Weeks - Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM, January 29 - April 9th
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
2 events,
Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
Captain Fun Lunchtime Listening Hour
All 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.
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.
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