NYS Music March Madness 2023: Round 1

Vote now for your favorites and discover some of the great up-and-coming music that New York State has to offer! Polls for Round 1 of NYS Music’s March Madness 2023 close at 11:59pm on Friday, March 3.

NOTE: Make sure you vote in ALL matchups for each region.

March Madness 2023 Yard Ampitheater Region

GRUB vs Elephant Back

GRUB is an Experimental Rock group based out of Buffalo/Niagara Falls, New York. Their original catalogue can be described as uniquely inventive, adventurous, and welcoming to new listeners. Each song showcases a seamless blend of genres such as funk, psychedelic rock, electronic, hip-hop, metal, and reggae amidst a pop-esque composition, so there are elements on the table for all. Visit their website for videos and much more.

Elephant Back was formed in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. Two musicians getting together to write some kick ass music together. Dave and Sarah proceeded to write, record, and mix an entire album in their home studios. Sent it out for mastering and then began creating stunning visuals in the form of music videos for each song they produced. Each video was released with each single over the course of a year until the release of the entire album in August 2022.

Eberwine vs The Eastern Highs

Buffalo-based rock and blues quintet eberwine (sic) is known for innovative improvisation, soulful lyrics, and high-energy shows. The band’s music highlights the best of rock and blues with nods to 90s alt-rock and jam. eberwine is the brainchild of frontman and guitarist Todd Eberwine (Dive House Union, Soul Roach, Todd Eberwine Band). What started as a solo project in 2016, is now a touring five-piece pulling seasoned musicians from the Buffalo music scene into a Western New York supergroup featuring Ryan Nogle (Funktional Flow, Aqueous), Evan Laedke (Tim Britt Band), Aaron Ziolkowski (Little Mountain Band), and Jay Race (Dead Alliance Buffalo).

The Eastern Highs are a Troy, NY based band produces a captivating soundscape, which deftly combines classic and modern sounds that owe as much to the roots/Americana flavor of The Band and Wilco as it does the intrepid reach of some of rock’s leading sonic explorers such as Pink Floyd and Radiohead.  Together with focused songwriting; it concocts a musical vision quest that is uniquely The Eastern Highs.  

Orange Corner vs Sydney Irving and the Mojo

Orange Corner is a 5-piece multi-genre band, hailing from the Buffalo-Niagara region of Western NY. Emerging from the jam-thickened music scene of Buffalo in 2018, this colorful quintet has since been taking stages local and regional whilst redefining the boundaries of groove. Drawing influence from the new to the old, the funk, classic/psychedelic rock, metal, jazz, hip-hop; one may say these fellows have a handle on diversity in music. Upon attending an Orange Corner show, be prepared to endure musical movements of vast magnitude. Once it’s showtime, a fresh sonic pallet is tastefully presented, and viewers quickly becomes enthralled in an upbeat mix of rhythmical nuances, soaring solos and downright infectious vocals.

New York native, Sydney Irving is in the early years of her music career, but she has already been named the 2020 young adult artist of the year by the International Singer Songwriters Association and the 2022 Best New Artist at the Syracuse Area Music Awards. At only 14, her debut album, “Hello Stranger” was released. She was also named the 2020 Female Artist of the Year by Music Mafia Radio. In 2020, She released her fifth album “Relax With Fiends”, followed up by multiple singles including her newest “You Can’t Forget About Me” as well as her summer inspired song, “Seasons Change“, which both earned her a number one spot on the Music Mafia Radio Top 30 Countdown.

One Man. The Band vs Honey Suckle Vine

One Man. The Band is the result of 2 musicians playing together for their entire lives. Our two founding members, Brad and Logan, have known each other their entire lives, and have been making music for that whole time! They decided it was time to get serious about playing together and One Man. The Band was formed. Paired together with Joe, our bass player, and Kris, our keyboardist/Guitatist, who’ve been doing their own thing for quite some time, and with Brad taking a step back to focus on personal matters, we’ve become a groovy jam band that plays all over the Central New York area! We’ll help you put a little bump in your rump!

Honey Suckle Vine (HSV) is a high-energy 4-piece blues-rock band based out of the Capital District of New York State. The songwriting team of Joey Jaquez (vocals, harmonica) and Jeremy Silverman (guitar, vocals) have been creating original material for over 20 years across the USA. Joined in 2017 by long time friends Graham Espe (bass, vocals, recording and production) and David Snediker (drums, vocals), HSV is ready to entertain.

Glass Pony vs Canella

Glass Pony, a jam band out of Albany have developed a unique sound in the past few years, with a wide array of originals with danceable grooves, unique setlists and compelling improv. Check out their most recent album “Nowhere Daydream

Canella is a rising indie-rock band from Albany, NY+ Bogotá, Colombia. Inspired by the sounds of 2000’s alt rock, they have established an electric presence in NY’s Capital Region as winners of WCDB Radio’s ‘Song of the Year’ award for their debut single “Quiet Love”. Joining the Tulip Fest 2022 Lineup, Canella set a fire on stage that ignited female fronted rock nostalgia but with a refreshing DIY take. Their music is inspired and dedicated to former bandmate and best friend, Kyle Robinson who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2020. Listen to their NEW single “Why Can’t I” now on all streaming platforms!

E.R.I.E vs Mainline

Upstate New York indie-rock outfit E.R.I.E. turn their focus externally on sophomore LP, Suburban Mayhem (due April 7th via Mint 400 Records). Trading in the internalized existential struggle of debut Don’t Wanna Live, Don’t Wanna Die, TJ Foster, Matt Delgado, Chad Flewwelling and Levi Jennes redefine their raison d’être to the draining external forces that permeate a modern existence. Their “crunching guitars, catchy choruses and down-to-earth, working-class vibe that recalls modern heartland punk rock…” (Daily Gazette), has garnered the band comparisons to The Gaslight Anthem, Frank Turner and The Get Up Kids. Check out the band’s website here for videos and more info.

MAINLINE officially hit the scene at the end of 2019 when Anthony Schettino (Bass), Johnny Iodice (Lead Singer & Guitar), Mason Servedio (Drums), and Devin Reck (Guitar) released their debut single “Open Fire” which eventually led to the self-titled EP that came out in February of 2020. Their album “The Unholy Idol” has garnered up over 80,000+ streams across platforms, and has gotten worldwide attention. The current lineup since 2022 now includes Ryan Hartell on guitar, replacing Devin Reck.  As of November 2022, the band released a new single “IN NOTHING WE TRUST” everywhere on streaming.

An Easy Death vs Grape Juice!

An Easy Death is a 5-piece Post-Punkcore band based out of the Rochester area drawing influence from bands like Blink-182, Oceans Ate Alaska, Everytime I Die, MxPx, and It Dies Today. The band formed in 2020 and has since been making a name for themselves in the Rochester and Buffalo areas.

The indie/alt rock band Grape Juice! met each other in a creative writing class circa 2017, the trio was formed, and found themselves playing basements across upstate NY. The group consists of Hunter Fish (lead vocals, guitar), Jesse Zuccaro (bass, vocals), and Mike Smith (drums, vocals). They’ve recently started playing outside of NY and have plans for a larger scale tour in the fall.

Blue 22 vs Samsara

Blue 22 is a local Rochester band specializing in performing classic rock covers and original tunes for private and public events. Blue 22’s lineup consists of twins Dom Spinelli and Nick Spinelli, Eli Burgard, and Will Hyman. Blue 22 is proud to announce that their first single, Tantalize, is now released! Blue 22 is currently working on recording their first album! Entitled “Where the Music is Loud” ,the album will be composed of 12 original songs written and performed exclusively by Blue 22. Look for its release in late 2023!

Samsara draws their influence from several styles including grunge, funk, metal and alternative. Samsara’s “alt sound” weaves grunge with today’s modern rock. Despite being a young band, they have received praise from the music community. Their music has received airplay on SiriusXM’s Channel 21 Little Stevens Underground Garage, as well as different college radio broadcasts and local radio stations. Samsara’s debut single, “NEVERMIND” quickly gained popularity in early 2020. Their newest release, “ISOLATION”, is available everywhere.

Voting for Round 1 has ended. Stay tuned for Round 2, starting at 8am on Monday, March 6.

March Madness 2023 Funk n Waffles Region

Blue Envy vs Phenomenon

Blue Envy is an alternative rock band based in Rochester, NY. Known for their unique style inspired by the rock, blues, and progressive rock artists of the past, the group has worked to concoct an original sound that consistently pushes their musical limits. Since their formation in 2018, the band has been honing their craft by gigging heavily throughout NYS, all while continually creating new music that strives to expand their compositional abilities.

Phenomenon is an original rock band influenced by the 90s grunge era and blues based rock bands. They were founded in the Hudson Valley NY by singer songwriter Michael D’Agostino in 2021 with his band mates Barry Choate (Bassist) and Kenny Fiors (Drums). All members of the band have a love of music and an interest in the paranormal from where the band gets its name. The bands first gig was at the UFO Fair in Pinebush and is where the band Phenomenon was born!

Farrow vs Alliteration

With thought provoking lyrics, strong melodies, and deep grooves, Farrow brings to life a vibe reminiscent of decades past whilst grounded in a modern sonic landscape. Based in Buffalo and led by producer/bass player Andre Pilette and singer/lyricist Michael Farrow, the band features Tim Webb on drums, Michael Ruopoli on percussion, Cory Clancy on guitar, Rufus “Breexy” Cole Jr. on keps, and Danielle Johnson on backing vocals. Check out the band’s website here for videos and more info.

Alliteration from Poughkeepsie perform self-described weird boi punk rock and have recently released their LP “Reject“. Formed in February 2015, Alliteration combines the driving riffs of alternative and indie punk, elements of a diverse array of genres, and a fun stage presence that shows the passion they hold for their art. Listen here.

Fine Grain vs Haley Moley

Fine Grain floats in between shoegaze haze and punk posturing. With prog-inspired riffs, post-punk murk, and the occasional ripping sax solo, fine grain offers up rambunctious reverie fit for hardcore fans of all generations. Fine Grain’s maturation is a testament to the transformative possibility of punk, showing how pulled threads of the past can still stitch together a promising new future. Visit here for a link to all their different streaming options.

Haley Moley features Jennifer Maher Coleman (vocals, keys,) Paul Coleman (guitar,) Andrea Thorpe (keys, guitar,) Pat Thorpe (bass,) and Mike Broomhead (drums.) Together they make danceable, new-wave-tinged songs anchored by Jennifer Coleman’s wry lyrics. After 7 years and two E.P.s, Upstate NY synth-rock five-piece Haley Moley have released their first full-length album “Everybody Wins” on February 17, 2023.

Black Tongue Reverend vs Annie in the Water

Formed in 2021, Black Tongue Reverend plays a unique style of heavy psychedelic Stoner-Blues that draws influence from every decade from the 60s and 70s psychedelic rock movement through today’s flourishing Stoner Rock/Doom scene. With a punk-like DIY spirit they have self-recorded and released two records to date, the EP Northern Burden in February 2022, and the LP All Of Them Have Fangs in October 2022. Committed to keeping things fresh and interesting, their loud and energetic live performances feature touches of improvisation that ensure no two performances are ever the same.

Annie in the Water’s music is a groovy combination of Reggae, Funk, Rock, Blues and Jamstyle written with a conscious dose of positive vibes, unique melodies and intelligent lyrics. Their music evokes the feeling of driving down mountain roads with longtime friends. As the sun rises in the rearview, an unwritten story awaits on the road ahead. Find out more about their current work on their website.

Metasequoia vs Maggie’s Clan

Metasequoia sprouted in 2007, taking root in Ithaca, NY. As a Seedling, they absorbed thier surroundings; fusing together their different sounds and experiences into an organic melody. This fusion became their foundation. We’ve rooted ourselves in Rock & Roll; and branch, bend and flow into genres of Reggae, Alternative, Pop, Blues & Psychedelic. Check it out at metasequoia-music.com

Maggie’s Clan is American Celtic Rock, fusing traditional Celtic instrumentation and folklore with the contagious energy of rock and roll. Created in 2016, this 7 piece, one of a kind powerhouse have been performing at local and regional pubs, music venues and festivals in NY from Rockaway, Queens to the Adirondacks. Maggie will hit you with a wall of sound from driving rhythms, hard rock vocals, bagpipes, fiddle and mandolin. Their newly released self-titled can be found on all streaming services and Youtube.

Jennie Angel vs Tsavo Highway

Jennie Angel is an actress who recently rediscovered her love for music. Started playing the guitar when she was 16 and has been singing she was born, now performing popular country hits! Jennie has most recently been added as a member of the Academy of Country Music and will be attending the awards show in March. Music and merch are both available on her website.

Tsavo Highway is a Buffalo based band on the rise with a fresh new blend of jam/americana/rock, quality original songwriting, as well as some of your favorite tunes from years past. Most recently, Tsavo Highway has been asked to open for national touring band “Thank You Scientist” at the Westcott Theatre in Syraucse and also will be traveling to Brooklyn in late August for a direct-to-vinyl project.

Seeing Double vs Strange Neighbors

Seeing Double, an Oneonta based rock band, is electrifying the college music scene in their tiny Upstate town with a growing fanbase and reputation among the community with their high-energy shows.  Combining their signature twin harmonies, feel-good grooves, and punchy instrumentals, “The Doub” creates a unique sound reminiscent of 70s pop-rock and modern indie with their growing category of songs. Listen to their double single “Leah//Don’t Wait,” here.

Founded by vocalist Aidan and drummer Tracey, Strange Neighbors first unleashed their jangly power pop onto the New York scene in 2018. After a few early singles and some lineup changes, the band brought along bassist Dana to record their debut album “How to Human” in early 2019. Taking influence from the power pop and pop punk of the band’s youth, the album’s eight songs are characterized by sparkling guitars, intricate bass lines, rock solid beats and impassioned vocals, a mix of the old and new. 

The Forest Dwellers vs Cait Devin

The Forest Dwellers are a reggae-infused folk/ indie group based out of Rochester, NY that plays universal medicine music. The band blends melodic music with incredible vocal harmonies. Stemming from different styles and genres, The Forest Dwellers fuse them into a new take on a familiar sound all its own.

Cait Devin is a 21 year old alt-pop artist from Utica with a diverse range of audiences and experience in many genres of music. Cait is also a lead guitarist alongside being a singer songwriter, and has put together various shred collabs. No stranger to playing live, Cait has been booking frequent shows in Central New York since she was 15, and expanded to NYC and Nashville by age 16. Listen to her song “K9” here.

Voting for Round 1 has ended. Stay tuned for Round 2, starting at 8am on Monday, March 6.

March Madness 2023 Jane Dough Region

Ursa and the Major Key vs PEAK

Ursa and the Major Key is an indie/psychedelic rock band from Plattsburgh, NY. The band fuses influences from classic artists including The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, and The Band, as well as modern artists like Whitney, Beach Fossils, and Levitation Room. Their debut album, “Daytime/Nighttime“, is also out now on Cricket Records. The album showcases an eclectic blend of influences filtered through the lens of indie and psychedelic rock.

PEAK’S music, described as Psychedelic Indie Funk, is a mix of poetic, melodic songwriting, moody electrofunk, riffed-out blues-rock, and exploratory danceable improvisations. Some of their many influences include artists such as The Band, The Talking Heads, Phish, The Grateful Dead, Radiohead, James Brown, and Miles Davis, as well as modern songwriters such as Conor Oberst, Mac Demarco, Kurt Vile, and Jack White to name a few. The band’s website has links to both music and tour date info.

Crazy Neighbours vs Pencil Dive

Crazy Neighbours has been together five years. They are a cover band. No originals. Located in Oswego county, they cover songs by AC/DC, Guns and Roses, Led Zepplin, Alice in Chains, etc. Kind of an 80’s hair band. They have opened for Ross Freidman, Manowar, Joe Lynn Turner, Deep Purple, Rainbow, Tim Ripper Owens, Judas Priest, twice, and last year they were direct support for the Rods. This June they are the closing act at Harley Rendezvous. They are a “in your face, high energy, party/ dance band.”

Pencildive is a rock band based in Saratoga Springs and Brooklyn, led by songwriter Gina De Nardo. Their sound is both tender and explosive with punchy drums and gritty guitar interwoven with brooding melodies and live noise experiments, described as indie gloom, punk, and alternative. Listen to their debut album Grown Ups here.

Personal Blend vs Murder In Rue Morgue

Personal Blend is a 7-piece reggae-rock band with pop driven melodies and ear catching hooks. PB’s first full length album, “Skin Deep“, was released in 2016, following that the EP “Ride”, and in 2019 released “Heavy Currents”. February 2023 Personal Blend is about to put out their fourth installment “Inhale & Release”. With new blood added to the band, Personal Blend is breaking boundaries and performing regionally, bringing the party to the masses!

Murder in Rue Morgue is CJ Carr, John Wolff, Matt Biss, and Dan Ouimette, hailing from the hometown of Manowar, and Level 7 in Auburn. The band is highly influenced by melodic death metal, such as, In Flames, Killswitch Engage, and Times of Grace. The band is a group of hardworking musicians who leave it all up on the stage giving the best show every time. Listen to their 2019 album Endless Cycles here.

Filled to the Brim vs Kids in the Basement

Filled to the Brim was formed in 2018 when they met at Jim O’Mahony’s Rock Camp that July. By the end of the session, Filled to the Brim had composed their debut single, “Turn Back the Time.” Over the course of 2019, they played shows and continued collaborating. During this time, Filled to the Brim wrote 10 more original songs. Currently, the band is working on their second album.

Kids In The Basement is a high energy four piece Jam/Dance rock band that formed in 2015 in Rochester. Starting off from humble beginnings, KITB frequently found themselves as staples at Park Ave House parties. As time went on and their following grew, they eventually moved their act to larger venues and stages across the state. As a result of playing hundreds of shows across NY over the years, they have gained a loyal following of all ages that are keen to their upbeat music and dance party-like vibe. Kids In The Basement truly brings the party to every show they play!

Head to the Roots vs Side-B

Head to the Roots has evolved into its mightiest form yet. Guitarist Anthony Siciliano fronts this roots rock outfit with feel-good word play and thunderous didgeridoo sound, while members Chris Palace (drums), Jordan Rabinowitz (bass), and Drew Rosenberg (keys) bring jungle-boogie groove and cerebral synth power to this Rochester, NY band. Amidst their career, they have shared the stage with national bands Mikaela Davis, Ripe, X Ambassadors, The Nude Party, and many musicians in the Rochester scene. With great potential on the horizon, this group is one to keep in the queue.

Born out of Albany, Side-B is an energetic 4-piece alternative rock band that blends influences ranging from classic rock acts like Led Zeppelin and The Police to funk, blues, jazz, punk, folk, and modern alternative. Their home-recorded single, “The Mountain Song,” perfectly showcases this creative fusion of styles. After making waves in the Capital Region and beyond, the quartet is now on the verge of a release for their debut full-length album.

Whaley vs Lemon of Choice

Whaley comes from Long Island, and they are a culmination of the best material & musicians Logan has written & met over the last 8 years since graduating from music school. His music can be best described as having old-school sensibilities with a new-school vibe. He released his debut album “On The Cusp” on March 4, 2022.

Lemon of Choice is a goof rock band from Albany. Blending aesthetics of prog-rock, and punk rock – two genres that are typically antithetical to each other – as well as a smattering of other interesting influences, Lemon of Choice constantly crafts ear-grabbing records. Fans of the obscure, and those looking for something high-energy, while being off the beaten path, should look no further than Lemon of Choice!

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch vs Mall Goth

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch – consisting of Jordan Demarest on drums, Dan Haggerty on bass, and Will Kachidurian on guitar and vocals – takes its listeners on a wide panoply of different sonic textures and grooves with their latest single, “Situational Comedy.” With influences such as Jeff Rosenstock, PUP, and Charly Bliss, their sound is remnant of all the hip hop, jazz, and Japanese funk-rock Kachidurian listens to.

Mall Goth is the musical project of Ella Kasper, Peter Lukach, Sam Meyer, James Hatari and Kensho Ueda, based in Binghamton, NY. The friends met through the local music scene while attending Binghamton University, and formed Mall Goth in October 2022. Since then they’ve been performing together all over the state of New York.

Senior Living vs Sarah King

Senior Living from Albany formed in 2016, have made a name for themselves across the Northeast DIY music circuit. Senior Living’s music is best served cranked up loud and weave together genres from ethereal shoegaze to punk with a tinge of modern dream-pop. Listen to their latest album Anniversaries here.

Known for her powerhouse voice and “fiery, vulnerable songs,” Sarah King creates thought-provoking, versatile Americana music. Her genuine stories about real-life emotions and situations also draw on classic folk-blues themes, balancing songs about the devil and booze with hard-won moments of reflection and acceptance. Her acclaimed 2021 EP The Hour, produced by Simone Felice and David Baron, earned her recognition as the New England Music Awards Songwriter of the Year and performances at the 2022 Folk Alliance International and Philadelphia Folk festivals, as well as supporting slots for acts including Blues Traveler and The Steel Woods.

Voting for Round 1 has ended. Stay tuned for Round 2, starting at 8am on Monday, March 6.

March Madness 2023 Strand Theatre Hudson Falls Region

Victory Soul Orchestra vs The Brass Machine

Victory Soul Orchestra is a nine-piece horn funk, soul and rock band from Albany, NY. The dirty sounds of New Orleans brass drive their sound with some influences including Galactic as well as the Dap Kings. You can also find them fronted by Albany’s own JB aka Dirty Moses and singer Dali Soto. Their efforts combined help create a funk/rap show that brings the house down. In January 2019 they released their first album, ‘Astrobeat’ – now available on vinyl and all streaming platforms. The band’s website has links to all their music.

The Brass Machine is one of the premiere touring acts on the live music circuit today, laying down funky New Orleans-style street beats across the United States and Canada. Formed in 2014 at the University at Buffalo, The Brass Machine provides a unique blend of hip hop, funk, and R&B, all in an infectious and energetic brass-y package. Having performed alongside national acts such as Earth, Wind, and Fire, Starship, The Soul Rebels, Rebirth Brass Band, Bonerama, John Papa Gros, CJ Chenier and more – The Brass Machine is hittin’ the streets HARD.

From States Away vs The E-Block

From States Away is an alternative/pop-punk quintet from New York. The band formed in 2015, and through extensive and vigorous performances throughout their local scene, they branched out regionally and even wound up winning a slot performing on the Vans Warped Tour. So far in their career, From States Away have released three EP’s and many many singles, the most recent one being “Held Me Down“.

The E-Block is a 5-piece indie R&B band based in Upstate New York, blending the acoustic warmth of singer-songwriter music with an ice-cold rhythm section informed by modern R&B. Led by guitarist Luke Pascarella, with the line up of saxophonist James Soren keyboardist Devin Tetlak, bassist Daniel Folds, and drummer Leroy “Rudy” Dalton, the band’s deep bag of influences and free-flowing style have earned them a reputation as a unique live act in the Capital Region scene. Follow their instagram for all the current action, including their new project “Waterfall” releasing this spring.

Sly Fox and the Hustlers vs Lily Soleil

A Saratoga Springs based band, Sly Fox and the Hustlers was formed in 2010 when Sly Fox’s longtime friend and musical partner, the Anti- Records recording artist Sean Rowe took a leave from rock and roll to focus on performing solo. At the same time, Sly had been writing songs to help work through a difficult time in his life, and was becoming an engaging singer. Listen to “Find Someone” here.

Lily Soleil is a singer-songwriter from northern New England, though she currently plays shows around the northeast and in upstate New York. She’s has been singing since the age of 4 and songwriting since the age of 12, when she wrote her first song “Complicated Person“. Lily combines elements of R&B, folk, pop, and rock in her music. Some of her main influences include Maggie Rogers, Coldplay, Sade, and Charlie Puth. Lily’s latest single, “Falling,” can be streamed now on all music platforms.

Hilltop vs MVW

Hilltop is a four piece jam band from Albany, NY. Over the past four years they’ve made a name for themselves with carefully crafted originals, mind bending improvisation & fun, diverse covers. Each member offers a proficient, unique approach to their instrument that defines the musical experience. This band of young musicians is eager to spread their music and will continue to engage crowds wherever they go.

Staten Island native Michael Vincent Waller (MVW) has re-engineered the way we look at the compatibility between genres, opening new possibilities of unforeseen musical collaborations. With the release of CLASSIC$, his hip-hop sounds with trap drums and classical symphonies had two separate worlds coming together, for a harmonious result. Waller has released three full length albums: The South Shore (XI), Trajectories (Recital), and Moments (Unseen Worlds) – which have garnered reviews in the WIRE and Pitchfork, amongst many others.

Xavier Sharp vs The Transport

Xavier Sharp is a New York based alternative rapper, singer and producer. He enjoys long walks on the beach and romantic candlelit dinners. Xavier is 21, single, has no kids and is just looking to get back out there after the divorce. He currently attends school at SUNY Oneonta but he enjoys attending alternative hip hop shows on weekends. He says if you swipe right “you’ve swiped right.”

The Transport aims to become one of the best entertainment acts in Western New York. With members coming from many genres of a music and a ten plus year background in the Rochester music scene, Brendan Ayers, Joe DiBaudo, Adam Flagg and Chris Prince bring you their frenetic show with a wide scope of music. With a focus on the 90’s to now, The Transport aims to be a breath of fresh air into the Rochester entertainment scene!

Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine vs Fight From Within

Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and roots singer Deb Cavanaugh lives in the foothills of the Taconic Mountains, in Upstate New York. ​In the mid-nineties, Deb focused on traditional folk music such as Old Time, traditional ballads, and Irish dance tunes. She now formed Deb Cavanaugh & Dandelion Wine, playing a variety of styles including blues, rock and traditional folk as well as a variety of instruments. Dandelion Wine’s line-up may vary depending on the venue and availability of musicians. Dandelion Wine is Jared Carrozza on bass and Ben Hart on drums, who also provides vocals and occasional lead guitar. The unique blend of blues, rock & roll, and folk is what gives Dandelion Wine a genre best defined as “psychedelic folk.” Find out more about her incredible story and listen to songs at her website.

Fight From Within and as founded in Upstate New York in early 2021. They craft their sound from an intersect of metalcore, hardcore, and beatdown. With the members being fans of bands like Bury Your Dead, Polaris, Emmure, Every Time I Die, Attila etc., they use these different influences to create their own unique aggressive sound. Since their start, they have released 8 singles. In 2022 they began tracking their first EP with Pablo Viveros of Chelsea Grin. It will be released later this year.

RBB Band (Rob Beaulieu Band) vs Lil Josiey

RBB is a deep dive into Americana with a slightly more blues and soul take than you will find with Raisinhead. Rob explores an improvised approach to the rock, folk, blues, R&B and soul catalog… playing everything from gospel tunes to Lou Reed, and whatever lies in between. Reinterpreting many of his own songs, as well as the whole experience, will leave you in a soulful mood. If you want to experience a performance and be rocked, dance some, cry some, laugh and smile a lot, this is for you. Rob Beaulieu is a certified practitioner of the jam band arts.

David Gomula-Mosso, popularly known as Lil Josiey is a young Alternative Pop singer/songwriter from Amsterdam, NY. He also plays the piano and guitar where he self-taught himself off of YouTube. His latest single is, “Dreaming About You” that was released on February 14th, 2023. When asked about the band, MJ Savino of PMV Magazine said “It’s quite refreshing to come across young talent well-crafted in multiple genres of music and instruments from Pop to Emo to Alternative.”

Seize Atlantis vs Public Water Supply

Formed in 2019, Seize Atlantis, is an Alternative Rock Band located in Upstate NY that play a variety of genres, including originals and covers. The band consists of James Mullen (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Mike Dardas (Bass/Vocals), Luc Bourgault (Lead Guitar) and Cody Platt (Drums). Listen to “The Unstoppable Groove” here.

Public Water Supply is Rochester’s premier psychedelic country music act, blending outlaw country with a sleek modern sensibility. First stepping into the scene in January of 2021. The group has boogied their way across the east coast and midwest. PWS will pack a punch in the year 2023, with their debut album, and expanded empire. The boys have been seen on WROC Songs from Studio B, and have performed across NYS.

Voting for Round 1 has ended. Stay tuned for Round 2, starting at 8am on Monday, March 6.

Voting ends at 11:59pm on Friday, March 3rd. Winners will be announced on March 5th, with voting in Round 2 running March 6-8. Good luck to all the bands!

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