Series curator and musical anchor Chuck Lamb, a member of the Brubeck Brothers Quartet since 2002, is a dynamic and emotive pianist, as well as a prolific composer of jazz, fusion, classical, and world music. His featured player, Clay Jenkins, is a popular trumpeter and big-band leader who brings calm, creative leadership to the stage. It's a mastery honed over several decades, beginning with his early years with the Stan Kenton Orchestra and later with the big bands of Buddy Rich and Count Basie Orchestra.
Saratoga singer-songwriter Lovella celebrates the release of Outgrown, her debut all-original album. As the daughter of music teacher, band leader and singer-songwriter Seth Warden, Lovella is no stranger to the stage. Now 16, she's been stealing the show since she was 13 years old. The expansive, emotional pop songs on her EP feature lyrics by her and music by her father, whose band will be backing her for this special night.
Solo/duo acts will be competing for the honor of representing the Capital Region at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Three acts will be competing for the honor of representing the Capital Region at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN in January, 2025. Sponsored by the Capital Region Blues Network (an affiliate of the Blues Foundation), the competition takes place at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 22 at Caffè Lena in Saratoga Springs. The competing Solo-Duo musicians will be named prior to the show.
Five local bands play with no amplification whatsoever in Lena's intimate listening room. This extraordinary show, organized by local artist Lawrence White, will create an experience we've never had at Caffe Lena. The artists will perform in the center of the room, and the tables and seats will surround them on all sides, with seating even available on stage!
The line-up of talent is top shelf: Annie & The Hedonists, Rick Bolton & Friends, Garland Nelson, Jeff Brisbin, and White's own band, The Beat Generation.
This event is a night of unity and artistry during Saratoga Peace Week, with neighbors taking care of neighbors right here at home. All proceeds will benefit SNACPack, the Saratoga Nutrition Assistance for Children program, which fills backpacks with nutritious food for local kids who need food support at home on weekends. 100% of the ticket price goes to SNACPack.
On Tuesday, September 17 Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena, 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs, to listen to, and learn about, Bruce Springsteen’s seventh studio album, “Born In The U.S.A.” Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 pm with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon”.
Musician/comedian Erin Harkes continues her songwriters' series at Caffè Lena in February. 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 63 years in operation, and is quickly becoming a must-see event in the Capital District.
The featured musicians this month will be newcomer Kayla Phillips, John Brodeur and Michael Eck.