Round 3 of NYS Music March Madness 2025, Presented by Upstate Canna, is here! This friendly competition is tighter than ever, and only eight bands remain in the fight for the championship. Who will rise to the occasion and claim their spot in the Final Four? That’s up to you! Check out these bands and make sure to vote with the Google Form at the end.
Polls are open until March 16 at 11:59 PM, so don’t miss your chance to make an impact. Check out the results from Round 2 and get ready to vote!
Upstate Canna is the official partner of NYS Music March Madness 2025. Upstate Canna is a trusted retail destination for premium, locally sourced cannabis products in New York State. They offer a carefully curated selection for therapeutic use and personal enjoyment. Their sponsorship helps bring together the most exciting emerging talent and allows fans to discover new music. Alongside Upstate Canna, a selection of regional sponsors also plays a key role in making this event a reality.
Lark Hall is a historic performing arts and event venue in Albany. Initially built in 1916, the space has been carefully restored to host live music, comedy, theater, private events, and community gatherings. Lark Hall has established itself as a beloved space that fosters a welcoming atmosphere for artists and fans alike.
Lark Hall Region
Darkside Skinny Dippers vs WHAT?
Hailing from Saranac Lake, Darkside Skinny Dippers blends traditional rock with modern influences to create a sound that embodies diverse rock ‘n’ roll. With a mix of original tunes and reinterpreted covers, their performances evoke nostalgia and creativity. Their music works to showcase their signature mix of raw emotion and polished musicianship. Darkside Skinny Dippers are dedicated to delivering unforgettable musical experiences, ensuring they remain a compelling force in today’s rock scene. Check out their single “This Is Your High.” Ready to jam? Darkside Skinny Dippers will be live at Charlie O’s in Montpelier, VT on March 21.
WHAT? is a versatile band from the Hudson Valley, formed in 2016 by college students, Ryan Perrone and Dan Steen. By graduation in 2020, WHAT? had gained new members, and now included Ryan Perrone on trombone, trumpet, keyboards, and lead vocals; Dan Steen on guitar; Jared Nelson on guitar and keyboards; Jeremiah Joseph Mahoney VI on bass; Alex Endres on drums; and Owen Moore on tenor and baritone saxophone. Their 2022 album Lavender Lounge highlights the band’s finest instrumentation, blending jazz fusion and a distinctive brass sound into an energetic, multi-genre style. Make sure to give their song “The Cloud” a listen. They’ll be rocking the International Hudson Valley Tattoo Convention in Poughkeepsie on April 4.
Dead of Summer Music Festival is a three-day celebration of Grateful Dead-inspired music held in Manchester, VT. Now in its sixth year, the festival features live performances and community events. Their upcoming festival will take place from June 11-13 with an exciting list of headliners.
Dead of Summer Music Festival Region
Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes vs Brass Machine
Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes bring funk, rock, reggae, and ska to the stage straight from Syracuse. Fronted by singer-songwriter Pat Tato, this electrifying project delivers music as creative as its name, with The Baked Potatoes providing a powerhouse backing band. The band pairs tight musicianship with lyrics that, in Pat’s own words, are “specific & ambitious.” Their sound mixes smooth melodies with punchy rhythms and reggae energy, creating an irresistible groove. Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes bring a unique sound that keeps audiences coming back for more. Listen to their latest single, “Stay Fly,” out in 2025. Pat Tato & The Baked Potatoes will bring their Bets Tour to Florida with stops in Jacksonville on March 27 and 30, and St. Augustine for March 28 and 29.
The Brass Machine, originating from Buffalo, is a popular act on the festival circuit, led by “Kidd” Kyle Yagielski. This collective showcases different musicians at each performance, creating unique musical experiences that never sound the same twice. The Brass Machine delivers a blend of funk, jazz, and R&B, utilizing a wide array of instruments to fuel their artistry. Their rotating lineup of talented performers brings fresh energy and perspective to each show, making them a must-see act known for their unpredictable and exhilarating live performances that festival-goers eagerly anticipate. Watch them perform “Mojito” live at Putnam Place. Catch The Brass Machine at Funk ‘n Waffles in Syracuse on March 31 and witness their energy firsthand.
Band #2
Funk ‘n Waffles is a beloved music venue in downtown Syracuse. They have crafted the perfect balance between food and music by serving inventive waffles and live performances. Founded by Syracuse’s dynamic duo, Kyle Corea and Adam Gold, it has become a cornerstone of the city’s music scene.
Funk ‘n Waffles Region
Strange Weather vs Glass Pony
Strange Weather is a Brooklyn-based experimental pop collective led by Sean Brennan, featuring a constantly evolving lineup of talented musicians, including Callie Brennan, Davis Rowan, Paul Peglar, and many others. Their sound merges dreamy, atmospheric instrumentation with heartfelt lyricism to create hypnotic musical experiences. Living with Choroideremia, a genetic eye condition that causes progressive vision loss, Brennan brings a unique perspective to his compositions, pushing musical boundaries while keeping his work deeply personal. Enjoy their newest song “Fast Love.” While no shows are currently announced, make sure to check back soon for exciting updates on upcoming performances.
Albany’s Glass Pony specializes in psychedelic grooves and has gained a reputation for their unique, exploratory sound and live performances. Featuring Chanda Dewey on drums and vocals, Eddie Hotaling on guitar and vocals, Jeff Picarazzi on bass and vocals, and Greg Pitzz on lead guitar and vocals, the band combines rich harmonies, intricate guitar work, and intense lyricism to create an immersive musical experience. Their boundary-pushing approach and infectious energy have made them stand out in the psychedelic scene. Give their song “Bottom of the Ocean” some love. The band is hitting the stage at Ophelia’s on Broadway on March 29 in Albany. Make sure you’re there for this must-see show!
Radio Woodstock has been curating music and live events in the Hudson Valley for over 40 years. Their long-standing presence has made them a staple in the local music scene. They work to support both emerging and established talent through their influential music audience.
Radio Woodstock Region
Free Whenever vs The Laura Leigh Band
Free Whenever is a Brooklyn-based trio known for its expansive improvisational performances and unique blend of psychedelia, dub, Eastern modality, and African rhythmic traditions. Featuring guitar as a central element, the band’s sound is a captivating journey through experimental musical landscapes. Their newest self-titled LP has gained recognition within Brooklyn’s music scene. Their impressive live shows also continue to engage audiences with their genre-defying approach. Free Whenever pushes boundaries while staying deeply rooted in cultural rhythms and spontaneous musical expression. Stream their latest release “Jonas The Shaman.” They’re keeping the momentum going—don’t miss them at Eris in Brooklyn on March 29!
The Laura Leigh Band, based in Washington County, brings an Appalachian-inspired sound to the Americana genre. As she is known for her heartfelt storytelling, Laura Leigh’s music explores the complexities of life. In 2021, she released her debut solo album, Living in Cambridge, produced by Jonathan Stewart. The album paints vivid pictures of the small town she grew up in, capturing its joyful and melancholic aspects. Beloved by those who experience her live performances, Laura Leigh connects with audiences through her powerful music and genuine presence. Experience “Corn Song” from her 2021 album. The Laura Leigh Band has announced a run of shows, including a stop at Unihog in Hoosick Falls on March 22.
Special thanks to Mirth Films and Sterling Stage for providing incredible prizes to our participants. Mirth Films is a media powerhouse specializing in high-quality video production. They are offering the winner a professionally shot, multi-camera full set video. Sterling Stage, celebrating 30 years of live music, is known for hosting unforgettable festivals. They are awarding a coveted spot on the lineup of an upcoming Sterling Stage Festival.
Voting for Round 3 of NYS Music March Madness 2025, Presented by Upstate Canna, ends at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, March 16. Round 4 will take place from March 19-21. Submit your votes using the Google Form below. Good luck to all bands and artists. Let the madness rage on!
Comments are closed.