Good Times Magazine #1335

GreatGuitar,MusicalInstrument&AudioShow

SaturdayMay4th,10AM-4PMatTheFreeportRecreationCenter

HarryPotterExhibition MissyElliotatUBSArena

HOT TIPS

FLIP CIRCUS NEW TOUR ‘24

FL!P Circus (www.FlipCircus.com), has been winning over audiences since debuting in 2022. This intimate big top experience, created by the Vazquez family, is hitting the road once again with its brand new Tour ‘24 production. It will set up its red and white big top tent at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove, NY from May 3 – 14 and the Walt Whitman Shops in Huntington Station, NY from May 17 – 28. Hailed as one of America’s best new family entertainment events, this all-new show was specially curated to showcase an incredible and eclectic mix of international human performers. There’s something for everyone!

Show times are 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. For tickets and additional information, please visit www.FlipCircus.com. Tickets start at $30.00 (children) and $50.00 (adults) with senior/military/handicap discounts available.

MANHATTAN COMEDY SCHOOL- HOW TO BREAK INTO COMEDY

New York City’s premier comedy training ground is celebrating National Humor Month by offering a free seminar, “Breaking into Comedy”. This engaging and informative session will take place on Sunday, April 28, from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Gotham Comedy Club (208 West 23rd Street) and will provide aspiring comedians with the tools and knowledge they need to launch a successful career in the world of laughter. Those who wish to attend can register at: https://manhattancomedyschool. com/breaking-into-comedy

The seminar will offer an ideal learning environment for everyone from total beginners to more advanced comedy enthusiasts. It will explore a wide array of essential topics.

Contact: Andrew Engel (212) 362-6647

aengelcomedy@gmail.com

HARRY POTTER: THE EXHIBITION

Harry Potter: The Exhibition takes visitors of all ages on a oneof-a-kind journey celebrating the entire Harry Potter world and includes some of the most iconic moments from the beloved books and films of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. Upon entry, everyone is given an exhibition wristband for a personalized experience using best-in-class immersive design and technology. From selecting a Hogwarts house (either Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin) to picking your wand and Patronus, visitors will be able to create their own, uniquely magical moments while earning points for their house with each interactive activity.

Throughout the exhibition, visitors will experience galleries celebrating beloved film moments and locations, including the hall of moving portraits, the Great Hall, and Hogwarts classes, complimented by authentic props and costumes. Hagrid’s Hut and oversized chair is perfect for photo opps, as is the “cupboard under the stairs” from Harry’s childhood.

Sensory Sundays at Harry Potter: The Exhibition will occur every first Sunday from 9-11 a.m., on Sunday, May 5; Sunday, June 2; Sunday, July 14; and Sunday, August 4, 2024. https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/harry-potter-exhibition.

LADY SUPREME: A DIANA ROSS EXPERIENCE

Lady Supreme: A Diana Ross Experience is a spectacular tribute to the life and work of the Supreme Diva. Accompanied by top notch singers and musicians, Deanna Carroll covers the hits of the Supremes to Diana’s solo sensations with spoton vocals. She performs all of Diana’s biggest hits, including Endless Love, Someday We’ll Be Together, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Touch Me in The Morning, Do You Know Where You’re Going To?, I’m Coming Out and so many more!

Saturday May 4th, 7:30 p.m. at The Elmont Memorial Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike Elmont.

Regular Tickets: $40.00 (plus processing fee), Senior Tickets $35.00 (plus processing fee) Purchase Tickets: Online: PlazaTheatrical.com or call the Box Office: (516) 599-6870

THE 2ND GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH GREAT GUITAR, MUSICAL INSTRUMENT & AUDIO SHOW

Saturday May 4th, 10AM - 4PM at The Freeport Recreation Center

It may not be the greatest show on earth, but for musicians and music lovers, it just might be the next best thing.

We’re talking of course about the upcoming Great Guitar, Musical Instrument and Audio Show May 4th at The Freeport Recreation Center. The first Musical Instrument show on Long Island in five years, this shapes up to be Christmas in May for those looking for vintage guitars and equipment, pedals, amps, basses, drums, special effects, dj and audio equipment and much more. Sponsored by The Long Island Music Business Organization (LIMBO), and Good Times Magazine (celebrating its 55th Anniversary), it will be a day to remember.

This will be the only Musical Instrument show in the Tri-State area for the next 6 months, so don’t miss out. It is NOT associated with any previous show or promoter.

What can you expect at the GGMI&A show? A turnout of the Long Island Music community. The show features nearly every independent musical instrument store on Long Island, plus heavy hitters from outside the Island like Rivington Guitars.

On display and for sale will be a vast assortment of guitars and equipment, anywhere from $100 to $10,000. The purpose of the show is to let everyone know that brick and mortar stores are alive and well, doing better than ever since the pandemic, as customers flock to the stores to feel and play the instruments, not just look at a picture on their computer screens.

Now in one place, you can meet the owners of the many fine businesses that can answer all your questions and fill that every need.

Check out those Fenders, Gibsons, Reverends, you name it.. all looking for a new home. Perfect to add to your collection or replace old equipment.

Also included will be some of the finest sound companies and recording & rehearsal studios. Plus visit the LIMEHOF booth.

In addition to the dozen of quality dealers, you might also want to check out Musician’s Row, a showcase location for many of our finest local artists. Come down and meet them in person, and find out why the Long Island music scene is so vibrant. They’ll have giveaways, cds, and much more.

And don’t miss an opportunity to meet some of our finest local media including The Shark Radio, Long Island Talks T.V, Long Island Sound Podcast and WGBB Radio.

Have some old equipment or instruments gathering dust at home? Why not turn them into dollars? Our dealers are also there to buy or trade with CASH!

Admission for the big event is only $10 in advance online at eventbrite.com or $13 at the door day of the show. (Cash only). The show is 10am to 4pm on Saturday, May 4th. The Freeport Recreation Center is located at 130 E. Merrick Rd Freeport, conveniently located near all parkways, and 5 minutes from The Nautical Mile.

For more information about the show or booths, call Rich Branciforte at 516-280-2100

PAC TRACK

THE SWEET AT SUFFOLK THEATER

One of the Top “Glam Rock” acts of Its era, British rock band The Sweet rose to worldwide fame in the 1970’s, carving out a decade of new style that changed music and fashion forever. The Sweet’s influence has been touted and revered across many genres, from Boy George to Kiss, to Poison to Guns & Roses. In an interview on The Jimmy Kimmel Show, lead singer for Guns & Roses Axl Rose gave credit to two bands that influenced him the most growing up and The Sweet was one of them.

Today, Stevie Stewart and Richie Onori’s talented line-up proudly features the amazing Patrick Alan Stone on lead vocals, blazing guitarist Jimmy Burkhard and keyboard wizard Dave Shultz. With the upcoming release of “Little Miracle,” The Sweet is poised to capture the hearts and minds for a whole new generation of fans.

The group is dedicated to carrying on the legacy and tradition of The Sweet well into the 21st century and most importantly adding on to the band’s heritage with thrilling new music that respects the integrity of the sound, quality, and energy of the early group. They’ll appear Thursday June 27th at 8 p.m. Tickets are $59 – $85.

For more information on upcoming shows, visit TheSuffolk.org or call the Box Office at 631-727-4343

OUR HOUSE AT PATCHOGUE THEATRE

Fittingly, on the 54th anniversary of CSNY landmark ‘Déjà Vu,’ “OUR HOUSE” are born to the world. Prepare for an unparalleled musical experience as “OUR HOUSE: The Music of CSNY” assembles to perform the CSNY repertoire with an extraordinary ensemble of FAMILY & FRIENDS.

What sets this apart is the stellar, historic lineup, featuring James Raymond (son of David Crosby), Astrid Young (Neil Young’s sister), Steve Postell (guitarist & musical director with David Crosby and The Immediate Family), acclaimed singer/ songwriter Chris Pierce (handpicked by Neil Young to support his 2023 tour, Neil’s first following Covid!), Jeff Pevar (lead guitarist with David Crosby, Graham Nash, CSN, Phil Lesh), Steve DiStanislao (drums with David Crosby, David Gilmour), Michelle Wills (keyboardist with David Crosby), and Elijah Thomson (bass with Father John Misty). Tickets are $39.00 - $69.00. Show is Wednesday, August 7th at Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 East Main Street Patchogue Box Office: 631-207-1313 Email: info@ patchoguetheatre.org

RICHIE FURAY TRIO AT BOULTON

After an astonishing 60-year career in music that included pivotal positions in Buffalo Springfield, Poco, the SoutherHillman-Furay Band, as well as several solo albums, Richie Furay’s signature vocals still capture his voice with such incredible depth and beauty that even those who have been long-time fans and followers will be caught with wonder when seeing him perform as he approaches 80 years old. It is truly an artistic moment of reckoning when watching his dynamic stage presence and his connection with the audience. When the electric and acoustic guitars team up, and the bass and drums of the rhythm section kick in and are joined by keyboards and the ever-important steel guitar, there is such an undeniable celebration of music that comes across it feels like Richie Furay has unlocked the most immortal secret of who he has been all these years. He is joined by a spirit of life and love that only the very finest music can deliver. By the end of his concert performance when the signature song from Poco, “A Good Feelin’ To Know,” is heard, it feels like a special gift being handed out at an illustrious event. A gift from one of rock & roll’s true pioneers.

They’re appearing Friday, May 3rd at Boulton Center, Bayshore. Doors open @ 7:00 p.m. Show starts @ 8:00 p.m. Tickets $69-$79 Includes all fees 37 West Main Street, Bay Shore 631-969-1101

BROADWAY’S HOME STRETCH –

by Jane Klain

As the season snowballs to June’s theater awards, a shout-out to “Water for Elephants.” Director Jessica Stone excels at melding romance, magical puppetry, breathtaking feats of acrobatic skill, wonderfully individualized characters, and most of all heart into a spectacle-filled extravaganza – with a terrific cast. (Imperial Theatre) https://www. waterforelephantsthemusical.com

Among the slew of re-imagined revivals opening, director Rebecca Frecknall’s new take on the John Kander-Fred Ebb-Joseph Masteroff 1966 classic “Cabaret,” winner of seven Olivier Awards and a West End triumph, transforms the August Wilson Theatre into the 1930’s decadent Berlin Kit Kat Club, including an immersive 75-minute preshow. Eddie Redmayne reprises his award-winning performance as the smarmy, sinister Emcee. Gayle Rankin costars as the Kit Kat’s chanteuse Sally Bowles, Ato Blankson-Wood plays Sally’s bisexual lover and Bebe Neuwirth and Steven Skybell play the older couple whose courtship is doomed by the rise of the Nazis. (August Wilson Theatre) https://kitkat.club/cabaretbroadway/

In 1993 director Des McAnuff transformed Pete Townsend’s 1969 concept album into the multi-media Broadway hit “The Who’s Tommy.” McAnuff now revisits the rock opera about an abused boy (Ali Louis Bourgui as the older Tommy) who, after witnessing his father kill his mother’s lover, is traumatized into a near catatonic state before becoming a celebrity as a pinball wizard. Lorin Latarro choreographed this high-energy, high-tech revival. (Nederlander Theatre) https://tommythemusical.com

In 1975 William F. Brown’s groundbreaking adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” reimagined the classic tale with an all-Black cast. “The Wiz” sported a catchy soul, gospel, and rock and roll-infused score by Tony Awardwinner Charlie Smalls, won seven Tony Awards and ran four years on Broadway. Amber Ruffin has tweaked and updated Brown’s book for this new production. Directed by Schele Williams and choreographed by Jaquel Knight, the cast includes Nichelle Lewis (Dorothy), Wayne Brady (The Wiz), and Deborah Cox (Glinda) (Marquis Theatre) https://wizmusical.com/

A SIGN OF THE TIMES: A NEW MUSICAL

The year was 1965. It was an era of Black Power, equal rights, and social wrongs. Journey back to America’s most turbulent decade as a young woman tries to make her way in New York City. A totally original story with such classic songs such as “Downtown,” “Gimme Some Lovin’,” “These Boots Are Made For Walking”, “Rescue Me,” and “I Know A Place” plus many more. A Sign of the Times explodes with the music you love and the madness that shaped a generation—and our own.

Based on an original story by Richard J. Robin, with a book by Lindsey Hope Pearlman (Roar!, Cassandra Complex), music supervision, arrangements and orchestrations by Joseph Church (Broadway: The Lion King, In the Heights), choreography by JoAnn M. Hunter (Broadway/London: School of Rock, London: SuperYou), and direction by Gabriel Barre (Broadway: Amazing Grace; OffBroadway: Almost Maine, The Wild Party).

A SIGN OF THE TIMES stars Chilina Kennedy (Broadway: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Paradise Square) as Cindy, two-time Drama Desk nominee Ryan Silverman (Broadway: The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago) as Brian, Justin Matthew Sargent (Broadway: Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, Rock of Ages) and Tony Award nominee Crystal Lucas-Perry (Broadway: 1776, Ain’t No Mo) as Tanya. Featuring a cast of 17, A SIGN OF THE TIMES is at New World Stages., 340 West 50 Street Now playing through June 2nd For more information visit www.asignofthetimes.com

Jeremy Jordan stars as the mysterious millionaire obsessed with winning back socialite Daisy Buchanan (“Hadestown’s” Eva Noblezada) in the new musical “The Great Gatsby” which premiered at the Paper Mill Playhouse last fall. Kait Kerrigan adapted F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 Jazz-age classic, with a score by Nathan Tysen and Jason Howland. Marc Bruni directs a cast that includes Noah J. Ricketts, Samantha Pauly, Sara Chase and Paul Whitty. (Broadway Theatre) THE GREAT GATSBY | Official Broadway Site | Get Tickets

Amidst these revivals and original musicals, “The Heart of Rock and Roll,” is a new jukebox musical rom-com written by Jonathan A. Abrams and Tyler Mitchell and inspired by the 1980s songs of Huey Lewis and The News (“The Power of Love”) which premiered at San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre in 2018. Corey Cott, McKenzie Kurtz, John Dossett and Josh Breckenridge headline; Gordon Greenberg directs the story, set in 1987, about two millennials – one seeking rock ‘n’ roll fame, the other corporate success -- who get a second chance at their dreams. (James Earl Jones Theatre) https://heartofrocknrollbway.com

SPORTS BEAT

If you listen to WFAN or watch SNY’s “Baseball Night in New York,” you are guaranteed to hear childish prattle from callers, and hosts, who are Mets or Yankees fans arguing such topics as “Who is the more feared hitter: Pete Alonso or Aaron Judge?” or “Which ace pitcher will return from the injured list first: “Kodai Senga or Gerritt Cole?”

I propose that Mets and Yankees fans and talk show hosts debate a far more critical issue; namely, which team has the better concession cuisine for its fans. Let’s put Yankee Stadium’s Lobel’s filet mignon and tater tots up against Pat LaFrieda’s sliced steak and French fries at Citi Field. Hamburger fans can argue Citi Field’s Shake Shack hamburgers versus Yankee Stadium’s 99 Burger (named in Aaron Judge’s honor).

Both teams have worked hard at upgrading stadium dining fare from the old hot dog and Cracker Jack days. Incidentally, the Asian-inspired chicken restaurant group, Fuku, is avoiding alienating local baseball fans as they have outposts in both Citi

PAC TRACK

SINATRA SALUTE AT JAZZ LOFT

Frank Sinatra once said, “I think my real ambition is to pass on to others what I know. It took me a long, long time to learn what I now know, and I don’t want it to die with me.”

Enter vocalist Pete Caldera to grab the “Sinatra baton” with his perfectly nuanced interpretations of Frank’s catalog. Caldera will be joined by the Jazz Loft’s 17-piece big band directed by Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel for four shows filled with Sinatra classics, called “Strictly Sinatra,” Thursday, May 2, Friday, May 3 & Saturday, May 4, with two shows on Saturday…the first at 2 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m. that same night. Shows on Thursday, May 2 and Friday, May 3 start at 7 p.m.

Away from performing, Caldera is a reporter for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees. He is a past chairman of the New York Chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees.

Tickets are available on website www.thejazzloft.org for $40 Adult, $35 Senior, $30 Student, $25 Children or available to purchase at the door.

Field and Yankee Stadium.

The Mets have just installed one hundred Citi Bike docking stations outside of Citi Field. It is great the team is encouraging fans to travel to the ballpark in a way which encourages exercise and is good for the environment. It would be nice, however, if the Mets installed bicycle racks at Citi Field for fans who want to pedal their own bikes to a Mets game.

Well-known BMX circuit professional bike rider, Queens native Nigel Sylvester, who was one of the athletes selected to appear in ESPN Magazine’s

“The Body Issue,” has dabbled in the world of clothing design. Sylvester and New Era have teamed up to create a Mets baseball cap.

Speaking of sports and apparel, ESPN, in honor of its 45th anniversary, has partnered with Adidas to create an athletic shoe called the ESPN Top Ten 2000. I guess they did not want to sound old by using 1979, the year ESPN came on the air. Sneakerheads will rejoice.

While we are on the topic of the good old days, one of the most successful TV beer ad campaigns were those fun 1980s Miller Lite “Tastes great vs. Less filling” commercials featuring retired athletes. Miller Beer is reviving the “Tastes great/ Less filling debate with recent sports retirees as former All-Pro linebacker/current CBS Sports NFL analyst JJ Watt, David “Big Papi” Ortiz, former Yankees catcher Jorge Posada, NBA great and TNT broadcaster Reggie Miller, and its first female sports star, soccer legend Mia Hamm.

James Brown, the longtime host of CBS Sports’

“The NFL Today:” studio show, will be honored next month with the Sports Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award. He is not only a terrific sports anchor, but also one of the nicest people you will meet in a business with King Kong-sized egos.

The Shohei Ohtani mess involving his interpreter who paid $4.5 million in gambling debts by helping himself to Ohtani’s bank accounts, quickly made baseball fans think of Pete Rose, a great player who became persona non grata because of his penchant to place wagers. Keith O’Brien has Nigel Sylvester

WANDA SYKES: PLEASE THANK YOU

On Friday, October 18th, Wanda Sykes brings razorsharp wit and unapologetic humor to the Staller Center stage, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience that leaves you laughing long after the curtains close. Wanda Sykes is an Emmy-winning stand-up comic, writer, actress, and producer who has been entertaining audiences for over twenty years. She has ranked among Entertainment Weekly’s “25 Funniest People in America” and her peers have called her “one of the funniest standup comics” in the field.

With her first major tour in six years, Fourteentime Emmy Wanda Sykes is bringing her sharp wit, observational humor, and fearless commentary on the things that matter most to the Main Stage. Upheaving the every day with her irreverent takes, Sykes’ performances are equally thought-provoking and tear-inducing, uproariously funny.

Ticket info: 631) 632-ARTS [2787] | boxoffice@ stallercenter.com

SUZANNE VEGA: OLD & NEW SONGS

On Saturday September 27th, at Queens College’s LeFrak Concert Hall, Suzanne Vega will be joined on stage by her longtime guitarist, Gerry Leonard (of David Bowie fame), performing a career-spanning show including favorites like Tom’s Diner, Luka, and more! Widely regarded as one of the foremost songwriters of her generation, Suzanne Vega emerged as a leading figure of the folk revival of the early 1980s when, accompanying herself on acoustic guitar, she sang what has been called contemporary folk or neo-folk songs of her own creation in Greenwich Village clubs. Since the release of her self-titled, critically acclaimed 1985 debut album, she has given sold-out concerts in many of the world’s best-known venues. She is known for performances that convey deep emotion. Notably succinct and understated, her work is immediately recognizable—as utterly distinct and thoughtful as it was when her voice was first heard on the radio over 30 years ago.

Tickets: $55-$65 Kupferberg Center for the Arts | info@ kupferbergcenter.org 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Flushing.

Photo credit: DKC News

Photo credit: MolsonCoors

TOUR

written the definitive Pete Rose biography, “Charlie Hustle” (Pantheon Books). O’Brien takes an unflinching look at both Rose’s professional and personal life, both of which have had an inordinate number of ups and downs.

O’Brien devotes many pages to the famous on-field fight during the 1973 National League Championship Series between Rose and Mets shortstop Bud Harrelson, who passed away two months ago. The Mets will be honoring Bud’s memory this season with a uniform patch.

The West Side Tennis Stadium, the home of the US Open before its relocation to Flushing Meadows Park in 1978, will be hosting a fun two-day tournament just before the start of the 2024 US Open. ATP stars Casper Ruud, Nick Kyrgios, Andrey Rubinev, Alex De Minaur, and Gael Monfils will be taking part in what is being billed as Ultimate Tennis Showdown. UTS promises fast action as only one serve will be allowed, and like baseball, there will be a clock to prevent endless volleys. Fans will be encouraged to make noise. It should be worth the price of admission to watch the athletic Gael Monfils return shots between his legs, as well as the mercurial Nick Kyrgios lose his temper at a referee.

The 2024 New York International Auto Show, held at Javits Center, thankfully had more car manufacturers exhibiting this year, although Chrysler/Dodge Jeep, and most of General Motors brands, save Buick, once again skipped it. Giants Hall of Fame linebacker, ABC “Good Morning America” co-host, and FOX NFL studio air personality, and noted automobile collector Michael Strahan, stopped by on press preview day, to take delivery of his new Tedson, a company

By Lloyd Carroll

which refurbishes highend classic cars, as Porsche and Lamborghini, with modern touches by hand in Croatia.

Aaron Rodgers must regret saying he was interested in serving as Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s vice president on Pat McAfee’s ESPN program. As soon as he made that announcement, CNN’s Pamela Brown reported Rodgers had told her years ago at a Kentucky Derby party that he believed the Sandy Hook tragedy was staged by crisis actors. Rodgers denied the story and stressed that the 2012 mass elementary school shooting was a tragedy. Whew! I guess Jets CEO Woody Johnson will not have to hire Alex Jones to join his team’s coaching staff.

Michael Strahan

Photo credit: Ultimate Tennis Showdown

Photo credit: Lloyd Carroll

Good Times Music Calendar

APRIL

CASINOS

NICK CARTER AT THE CABARET THEATRE

Get ready to party like it’s the 90’s as international Pop superstar Nick Carter takes his solo act to The Cabaret Theatre at Mohegan Sun for consecutive 7:30 p.m. shows on November 9th and 10th. Tickets to see the beloved boy band icon are on sale via Ticketmaster.com. Fans can also purchase tickets at the Mohegan Sun Box Office.

Sparking his career at the age of 12, Nick Carter quickly became an international pop superstar as the youngest member of the iconic boy band, Backstreet Boys. With his boyish good looks and heartthrob status, Carter’s 30-year entertainment journey has extended far beyond sold-out arenas, encompassing a diverse range of projects in television, film, philanthropy, and publishing.

The Backstreet Boys hold the distinction of being the best-selling boy band in history and rank among the world’s top-selling music artists of all time. The group solidified one of the largest record deals ever, signing a $60 million deal with Jive Records in 1999. Since taking the world by storm in 1995, the band has sold over 130 million records worldwide and has earned five Grammy nominations and countless Billboard Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, American Music Awards, RIAA Awards, People’s Choice Awards.

PENN & TELLER AT HARD ROCK HOTEL

Legendary creators of magic, Penn & Teller, are bringing their unique version of magic and comedy to Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Thursday and Friday, May 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. Tickets for Penn & Teller are on sale at HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. All shows are subject to change.

In 2023, Penn & Teller celebrated 48 years of professional partnership. From humble beginnings busking on the streets of Philadelphia to acclaimed sold–out runs on Broadway to the longest-running, and one of the most-beloved resident headline acts in Las Vegas history, magic’s legendary duo continues to defy labels—and at times physics and good taste — by redefining the genre of magic and inventing their own very distinct niche in comedy. Their record-breaking Las Vegas show has an amazing nine wins as “Las Vegas Magicians of the Year” and was called “The single best show in Vegas,” by the Los Angeles Times.

JEFF DUNHAM RETURNS TO MOHEGAN SUN

Jeff Dunham will be returning to Mohegan Sun Arena this Summer for a night full of laughter on Saturday, September 14th at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com. Comedy fans can also purchase tickets at the Mohegan Sun Box Office.

Ventriloquist Jeff Dunham is a comedy superstar and one of the world’s most inventive entertainers. After graduating from Baylor University, he moved to Los Angeles to base his global touring and never looked back. The man Slate called “America’s favorite comedian” has 11 record-breaking comedy specials to his credit – three were Comedy Central’s most viewed specials of their respective years (Me the People in 2022, Minding the Monsters in 2012, and Controlled Chaos in 2011), and his Jeff Dunham’s Very Special Christmas Special from 2008 remains the networks’ highest rated program of all time. His autobiography, All By My Selves: Walter, Peanut, Achmed and Me, landed Dunham on The New York Times’ Best Seller list three weeks in a row. He was also named Billboard’s Top Comedy tour for three consecutive years. The versatile entertainer also created an animated film for Country Music Television and hosted the Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship.

Photo courtesy Penn & Teller

• The Legendary Murphys

The Warehouse

• Amityville

Deer Park - 50% Off Cards

Grand Blvd - (631) 667-6001

East Islip - Riley Fibber’s

148 Carleton Avenue - (631) 446-1571

E. Northport - D&D Cards

7-8 Hewitt Square - (631) 757-0320

E. Patchogue - Dunton Inn

701 South Country Rd. - (631) 758-8940

Greenlawn -Healy’s Inn

54 Broadway - (631) 754-2700

Halesite - The Shamrock

138 New York Ave. - (631) 427-4221

Hampton Bays -The Bays Bar & Grill

214 West Montauk Hwy. - (631) 594-5753

Holbrook - Cardsmart

342 Union Ave - (631) 676-4482

Holbrook - Tailgaters

1083 Main St - (631) 285-2996

Kings Park - Main Street Pub

21 Main St - (631) 544-5461

Lindenhurst -Magic Cards

600 N Wellwood Ave - (631) 957-2957

Lindenhurst -Sidelines Cafe

43 W Hoffman Ave - (631) 226-2500

Mastic Beach -Linsa Torr’s Place

373-375 Neighborhood Rd - (631) 281-9893

Mastic Beach -Mike’s One Stop

122 Mastic Rd - (631) 399-6294

Mattituck-Nofo Beer & Smoke

55 Middle Rd - (631) 298-7092

Medford -Medford Cards & Gifts

1699 Rte 112 Ste H - (631) 289-4340

Middle Island -Middle Island Cards

1251 Middle Country Rd - (631) 924-9542 Nesconset

(631) 654-9558

Port Jefferson -Tommy’s Place

109 Main St. - (631) 473-8778

Riverhead -Hallmark Cards & Gifts

763 Old Country Road - (631) 369-2744

Rocky Point -Rocky Point Alehouse

May 2 • Kerry Kearney My Father’s Place • Roslyn

MAY

MAY 23 – CARAVAN

MAY 30 – BLACK & BLUE Rolling Stones Tribute Band

JUNE 1 – MANDELINO PROJECT

Randy Brecker, Ada Rovatti, Dan Orlando

Anthony Babino, Malcolm Gold & John Mandolino

JUNE 2 – F**K 7TH GRADE:

JILL SOBULE & ANTIGONE RISING

JUNE 7 – THE WEEKLINGS

JUNE 13– HOURGLASS – James Taylor Tribute

JUNE 16 – LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE *McCARTNEY*

JUNE 22 – JOE PIKET & THE STORM

JUNE 29 – BARNABY BYE

JULY 12 – RAEL (A Peter Gabriel Experience)

JULY 13 – CHRISSIE CROW BAND

AUGUST 11 - MIDGE URE

AUGUST 14 – AL STEWART

Good Times Music Calendar

COMEDY

BARGATZE ANNOUNCES

UBS ARENA SHOW

Comedian Nate Bargatze announced a new date for his 2023-2024 THE BE FUNNY TOUR at UBS Arena, located 30 minutes from Penn Station or Grand Central via LIRR, on June 9. Tickets are at natebargatze.com.

An Old Hickory, Tennessee native, Bargatze followed in the showbiz footsteps of his father, a former clown turned world class magician, whose influence is seen on his 2015 debut Comedy Central special, Full Time Magic and his debut album, Yelled at By a Clown, which reached #1 on the iTunes Comedy Charts and remained on Billboard’s Top Ten Comedy Charts for weeks.

Bargatze’s half-hour Netflix Special The Standups, premiered in 2017 and his first solo one-hour Netflix special, The Tennessee Kid, premiered globally with rave reviews in 2019. In 2021, he released his critically acclaimed second Netflix special, The Greatest Average American, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album. On January 31st, Nate released his latest and third one-hour special, Nate Bargatze: Hello World, on Amazon Prime.

“DRUGSTORE JUNE”

Executive Producer Bill Burr and the director of cult classic Grandma’s Boy team up to bring a delightfully original film to comedy fans, available for digital rental and purchase on all major platforms from Shout! Studios. Esther Povitsky stars as the titular June, a wannabe influencer juggling multiple issues: her parents pressuring her to move out, her ex-boyfriend accusing her of stalking, and two detectives who suspect she’s involved in the robbery of the local pharmacy.

In Drugstore June, Povitsky leads a large ensemble cast featuring: Bobby Lee,Beverly D’Angelo, James Remar, Brandon Wardell, Haley Joel Osment, Danny Griffin, Matt Walsh, Patricia “Ms. Pat” Williams, Miranda Cosgrove, Jackie Sandler, Al Madrigal, Bill Burr, Brittany Furlan, Nick Rutherford, Trevor Wallace, Steph Tolev, Danielle “Bhad Bhabie” Bregoli, Jonnie “Dumbfoundead” Park, Jon Gabrus, Gerald “Slink” Johnson, and Nate Ellner. Not Rated. 91 min. www.drugstorejune.com.

LIZ MIELE SPECIAL “MURDERS SHEETS”

Comedian Liz Miele released her new stand-up special “MURDER SHEETS” on April 2 premiering free on YouTube. Filmed live at The Bell House in Brooklyn, Liz hit the stage with her rapid fire storytelling style to share her tales of dating, murder, rules about edibles, international touring, dead cats, and more.

Liz’s new special “Murder Sheets” follows her previous special “The Ghost of Academic Future” which was named Best of 2022 by The New York Times and Paste. Her previous self-produced and self-released specials also include “Emotionally Exhausting” (over 3M views) and “Self Help Me” (1.9M views) streaming free on YouTube. Liz will be touring throughout 2024. Find dates, info and tickets atlizmiele.com.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

MISSY ELLIOTT’S FIRST-EVER HEADLINE TOUR

The solar phenomenon was eclipsed by the supernova announcement of Missy Elliott’s debut headline tour, OUT OF THIS WORLD — The Missy Elliott Experience. Continuing her dominance as one of the most significant artists in music, the pioneer of female Hip Hop/R&B will land in arenas across North America this summer with Hip Hop legend Busta Rhymes, Multi-Platinum selling superstar Ciara, and mega producer Timbaland.

“This is an incredible time in my life as I am experiencing so many milestone ‘firsts.’ Being the FIRST female Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and now going out on my FIRST headline tour,” shares Elliott. This summer’s hottest ticket is produced by Live Nation in association with Mona Scott-Young, Elliott’s longtime manager and CEO of Monami Entertainment, and represented by Seth Shomes through Day After Day Productions (DADP). The 24-city run blasts off on July 4 and includes a stop at UBS Arena.

Tickets are available with general on-sale at Missy-Elliott.com

GIN BLOSSOMS AND TOAD THE WET SPROCKET

Multi-platinum selling alternative rock bands,Gin Blossoms and Toad The Wet Sprocket, announced their co-headlining summer tour. The 15-date trek kicks off Thursday, August 1 in Wisconsin and will see the“Hey Jealousy” and “Walk On the Ocean ”hitmakers, respectively, take amphitheaters and theater stages across the Midwest and East Coast. Additionally, they’ll be joined by special guest alternative rockers Vertical Horizon, the multi-platinum band known for their charttopping songs such as “Everything You Want,” among others. Ticket on-sales: Visit Gin Blossoms’ website or Toad The Wet Sprocket’s website for more information and to purchase tickets. They’ll be appearing Tuesday, August 20th in Red Bank, NJ at The Count Basie Center for the Arts.

“CROCE PLAYS CROCE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Billboard charting singer/songwriter A.J. Croce, will be performing at the Hudson Valley Theater on May 2nd on his special “Croce Plays Croce 50th Anniversary Tour” in honor of the memory of his late, legendary father, hitmaker singer-songwriter, Jim Croce (“Bad, Bad Leroy Brown”, “Time In A Bottle”, “Operator”, “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim”, and many more).

On the “Croce Plays Croce 50th Anniversary Tour,” the gifted multi-instrumentalist will be backed by band members Gary Mallaber (Van Morrison/Steve Miller Band), bassist/singer David Barard (Dr. John), and guitarist/violinist James Pennebaker (Delbert McClinton).The show will include a moving, multimedia experience in which A.J. will perform his own songs, in addition to tracks from Jim’s mega-successful albums included in THE DEFINITIVE CROCE, which is being released this year for what would have been Jim’s 80th birthday before his untimely passing.

The performance will celebrate Jim Croce’s legendary work, coinciding with the recent BMG release of the 3 CD or 3 LP compilation project, “THE DEFINITIVE CROCE,” which includes Jim’s iconic albums “LIFE AND TIMES,” “I GOT A NAME” and “YOU DON’T MESS AROUND.”

Tickets for the “Croce Plays Croce 50th Anniversary Tour” are available now and can be purchased at www.ajcrocemusic.com.

GAIL STORM: WOMEN IN THE BLUES

Long Island solo/duo blues challenge winner Gail Storm is at the Bellmore Playhouse on April 21 and will give a multimedia presentation on the original blues divas who paved the way for modern-day blues stars such as Samantha Fish and Shamekia Copeland.

“Women In the Blues” is a presentation of Blues Queens from the 1920’s – complete with live performance by Storm on vocals and piano.

The program explores the Blues as a musical and expressive form while outlining the unique biographical and stylistic qualities of pioneering women such as Bessie Smith, Ida Cox, and Sippie Wallace.

The show will highlight how these women were not from a ‘tame breed’, as evidenced by tunes they sang including “Send Me To The ‘Lectric Chair”, “Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues”, and “Women Be Wise.”

Doors at the playhouse, 525 Bedford Ave in Bellmore, will open at 1:30 and the show starts a 2 p.m. Plenty of parking is in the rear of the theater as well as street parking.

Tickets are $30 general admission or $35 for VIP tickets. VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet with Gail upstairs at The Loft, with a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are available at the theater box office or by calling (516) 783-9669. For more details on the show, email the Long Island Blues Society at Info@libsny.org.

We are looking for manager positions, servers, busboys, and bartenders. Please email Burgerology.rvc@gmail.com. (TFN)

MUSIC STORE in Mastic looking for full & pt help. Great Perks (815) 666-6772 Joe (TFN)

MUSICIANS AVAILABLE

GUITARIST, looking for Blues Rock Jams. 67 years old. (631) 462-5987 (1325)

DRUMMER, 38 Actual good drummer seeking non-horrible band. E-mail actualgooddrummer@ gmail.com (1325)

CHICAGO BLUES, harmonica vocalist looking to play (516) 398-8155 Nassau County Preferred (1325)

MUSICIANS WANTED

FEMALE SINGER who can also DANCE wanted for New Orleans style BAND for VIDEO & GIGS (Brooklyn L.I. Based) Call or text Dave (917) 6224578 (1313-1316)

UPRIGHT BASS PLAYER AND PERCUSSIONIST OR CAJUN PLAYER wanted for Acoustic Trio with GUITAR BOSSA RHYTHMS SWING BLUES AMERICANA originals with a RETRO FEEL A LA HOT CLUB Dan Hicks etc. Text or voicemail Chuxley (646) 221-0088 (1325)

FEMALE RAPPER WANTED for upcoming CD to be released soon for established band, The Midnight Soul Rockers. Call for more info Larry (631) 532-7832 or Kenny Max (631) 578-7877. (1331)

I know lots and lots of jam band stuff and classic rock, too. Based in Huntington, I don’t mind driving to a convenient studio for all – give a call! Rob (516) 672-3957. (1325)

METAL

ANVIL NEW STUDIO ALBUM

Canadian metal artists ANVIL announced their new studio album, ‘One And Only’, for a release on June 28th, via AFM Records! A first video single, “Feed Your Fantasy”, is now streaming.

When it comes to the most influential bands in the history of heavy metal, authorities on the subject regularly vote ANVIL among the top positions. The group from Toronto, Canada, with its two masterminds, Steve ‘Lips’ Kudlow and Robb Reiner, and bassist Chris Robertson, looks back at an impressive career with countless highlights.

Their forthcoming 20th album is aptly entitled ‘One And Only’: ANVIL are and will always be one of a kind and are continuing to shape the contemporary metal scene just as impressively as they did at the beginning of their career. How did they achieve this? Thanks to their straightforward metal fueled by cutting riffs and catchy hooks, which the musicians continue to celebrate with admirable effortlessness and great passion.

Their first album single, “Feed Your Fantasy”, is out now on all digital streaming providers at: https://anvil.bfan.link/feed-your-fantasy Like its four predecessors, ‘One And Only’ was produced by Martin ‘Mattes’ Pfeiffer (U.D.O., among others) and Jörg Uken at his Soundlodge studio.

BLUE OYSTER CULT “GHOST STORIES”

After the resounding success of their 50th Anniversary celebration, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT is gearing up with the upcoming release of ‘Ghost Stories.’ This highly anticipated album adds another chapter to the recording legacy of one of rock’s most iconic bands from the past 50 years.

BLUE ÖYSTER CULT is set to captivate fans with a collection of reimagined and newly completed songs that span from 1978-2016. These treasures, long considered ‘lost gems’ by BLUE ÖYSTER CULT enthusiasts, were originally recorded between 1978 and 1983, except for one track from 2016, “If I Fell.” Also included is the only known studio recording of their concert classic “Kick Out the Jams” (MC5 cover). Some of the material is from sessions workshopping material for an album, some is from performance rehearsals. Work in the studio for the album was completed by Richie Castellano along with remaining original members Eric Bloom and Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, both Albert Bouchard and Rick Downey appear on drums with additional overdubs recorded by Joe Bouchard. All these original lineup members appearing on ‘Ghost Stories,’ create a musical journey that traverses decades.

HATEBREED 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

The Grammy-nominated hardcore icons, one of the most impactful and enduring bands of the modern era, announced their Fall 2024 headline tour plans. The band will embark on a full, 30th anniversary trek that kicks off on September 26 in Portland, Maine and runs through October 27 in Norfolk, VA and includes stops in Canada. The band will be playing fan favorites and dragging deep cuts out of their catalog.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the March Metal Matinee anniversary show in Hatebreed’s home state of Connecticut, as well as two soldout shows at The Chance in Poughkeepsie, and a completely sold out, four-night residency at Amityville Music Hall in Long Island back in January.

They’re appearing September 28th at Terminal 5. Special guests for the Fall run include Carcass, Harms Way, and Crypta.

CLASSIC ROCK

QUEEN ROCK MONTREAL

Queen Rock Montreal captures the world’s most iconic rock band at the very peak of their live powers. Recorded in 1981 and recently released as a record-breaking digitally restored IMAX concert film, this landmark moment in the band’s history is now being released as both double Blu-Ray and double 4K Ultra High Definition packages, plus double CD and triple vinyl packages. Both come May 10th the band has announced.

Queen Rock Montreal presents Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon at their most exciting and exhilarating. As Brian May puts it, this is Queen “live and dangerous.” Queen were on all-conquering form when they returned to Montreal, Canada for the fourth time in November 1981 to play two huge concerts at the 18,000-seat Forum. This pair of Montreal concerts marked an historic moment for Queen.

Music mix produced by Justin Shirley-Smith, Kris Fredriksson and Joshua J. Macrae

The album’s 28-track setlist shows the breadth and brilliance of Queen’s songwriting. It mixes 70s classics (Killer Queen, Now I’m Here, We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody) and recent hits (Another One Bites The Dust, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Play The Game, Save Me) with fan-favourite deep cuts and album tracks (Keep Yourself Alive, Dragon Attack, I’m In Love With My Car, Sheer Heart Attack), as well as two songs, Flash and The Hero, which are exclusive to the audio-only formats. The audio comes as 2CD/3LP black vinyl.

BURTON CUMMINGS

60TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Burton Cummings, lead singer of the original The Guess Who and successful solo artist is set to tour the US this September, marking his 60-year-anniversary of making and releasing music. The tour starts September 13 in Deadwood, South Dakota at Deadwood Jam. Tickets for the tour are available to the public.

In addition to the tour, Cummings announced that A Few Good Moments, his first studio album since 2008’s Above The Ground, will come out this year. Details on the album’s release date coming soon.

In 1964, a 16-year-old Cummings released two singles as a member of The Deverons. Two years later, he joined The Guess Who. It was with the original The Guess Who that Cummings’ signature vocals, along with his songwriting and keyboard prowess would fuel massively big hits around the world including “These Eyes,” “No Time,” “Laughing” and their biggest hit “American Woman,” the latter topping the charts.

MARY WILSON REIGNS SUPREME

This year, The Supremes, to this day the #1 female recording group, received the Lifetime Achievement Award during this year’s 65th Annual GRAMMY® Awards. Mary Wilson was one of the original/founding members of the Supremes and was its only original member from their start in 1961 until its end in 1977. Mary, with the Supremes, achieved an unprecedented 12 #1 hits and 5 consecutive #1’s from 1964-1965: “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Stop! In the Name of Love” and “Back in My Arms Again.”

To celebrate Mary Wilson’s birthday (March 6), “Soul Defender,” a previously unreleased single, premiered on March 3 as a digital release by Sweet Feet via UMe at all DSPs. The track was written by Billie Ray Martin (“Your Loving Arms”) and produced by the multi-talented Paul Brewer of Sweet Feet Music (Pet Shop Boys, Billie Ray Martin, Annie Lenox) and John Keenan (Beyoncé, Missy Elliot, Pet Shop Boys). There will be three versions – a radio edit, an extended dance mix, and an instrumental version of the radio edit.

Photo by Sandra Roeser

Photo credit: Luciano Bilotti

BITS & PIECES

DEBBIE HARRY ADDS TO DANDY WARHOLS’ SINGLE

’I Will Never Stop Loving You’ is the only true ‘love song’ I have ever written,” admits Courtney Taylor-Taylor of THE DANDY WARHOLS about the fourth single taken from their new album ROCKMAKER which was released March 15th via Sunset Blvd.

Featuring vocals from Debbie Harry, “I Will Never Stop Loving You” is a darkly anxious track that sees Harry’s radiant vocals dodging Taylor-Taylor’s sinister growl, adding a brightness to the shadows of obsession that his vocals suggest. “Dark as it may be, I truly believe it represents love and what that word means to many people,” he adds.

Debbie’s contribution to the track is one that Courtney does not take lightly. For an album that already boasts features from Frank Black (Pixies) on “Danzig With Myself” and Slash (Guns N’ Roses) on “I’d Like To Help You With Your Problem,” her presence anoints it with even more majestic grace that NME plauds as “epic.” “Debbie’s voice elevated this song to a level that nothing else could possibly have done,” he explains.

GARTH BROOKS’ ARTIST TO ARTIST’

TuneIn, the world’s leader in live audio, announced the launch of a new interview series hosted by Garth Brooks, Artist to Artist, on The BIG 615. The series features intimate conversations between Brooks and fellow musicians to take fans beyond the music and bring them closer to the most influential country music artists. The series debuted with a multi-part interview with Lainey Wilson April 2 during The Storme Warren Show. During the interview, Brooks and Wilson dive into their own experiences as artists, entertainers and songwriters. The conversation takes an emotional turn when the two talk about family, the early supporters and their humble beginnings in country music.

The interview will be available beginning April 2 at 8 a.m. CT in hour-long segments on The BIG 615, repeating at 11 a.m. CT throughout the week. Brooks has lined up high-profile interviews with the biggest names in country music that will be available regularly throughout the year. To catch the premiere of Artist to Artist on The BIG 615, visit TuneIn.com/ garthbrooks or download the TuneIn app in the App Store or Google Play for free.

EILISH ANNOUNCES 3RD STUDIO ALBUM

Billie Eilish has revealed details on her highly anticipated third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT which will see its global release on May 17 via Darkroom/Interscope Records. Her most daring body of work to date, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT is a diverse yet cohesive collection of songs, ideally listened to in its entirety from beginning to end. The album does exactly as the title suggests: hits you hard and soft both lyrically and sonically while bending genres and defying trends along the way.

HIT ME HARD AND SOFT was written by Billie Eilish and Finneas, her brother and long-time collaborator, who also produced the album. HIT ME HARD AND SOFT will be available on all digital platforms, and in a continued effort to minimize waste and combat climate change; across all physical formats in limited variants on the same day, with the same track-listing and using 100% recyclable materials. For more information on all sustainable practices for this album release, please visit the official website.

SMASH MOUTH NEW SINGLE “RIDE ON”

Marking their 30th anniversary since forming in San Jose, CA, back in 1994, multi-platinum-selling and Grammy nominated global phenomenon Smash Mouth has returned with the perfect song for a summer road trip in “Ride On.” The dance-rock tune, written by Paul DeLisle with help from the four other members of the band, channels Daft Punk, Tame Impala and yacht-rock vets Pablo Cruise with its top-down, hair-flowing-in-the breeze lyrics tailor-made for cruising on Pacific Coast Highway.

The single was released on independent label Vydia on April 12th, with the band’s summer tour starting April 19-20 at Island Resort & Casino in Harris, MI, and currently running through August 20 at North Idaho State Fair in Coeur d’Alene, ID as dates are being added regularly.

OASIS’ “SUPERSONIC” 30TH ANNIVERSARY

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the classic debut single”Supersonic” (originally released on April 11th, 1994),Oasis have unveiled an essential early live recording of the song. Limited edition physical single formats are also released to commemorate this landmark date - a replica of the original 1994 CD Single (including the white label demo version of “Columbia”) and an individually numbered pearl colored 7” vinyl -out now on Big Brother Recordings. The single is also available in Spatial Audio on Apple Music.

The kinetic live version of “Supersonic” was recorded at the Limelight, Belfast on September 4th, 1994, perfectly capturing the moment when Oasis were one of the most exciting new bands and poised on the brink of era-defining crossover success. Earlier that week, their seminal debut album Definitely Maybe had been released (August 29th, 1994) and shortly before taking to the stage in Belfast, the band discovered the album had reached Number 1 in the UK Official Album Chart. The fans who had traveled from all over Northern Ireland witnessed an unforgettable gig that would go down in local folklore.

DIERKS BORROWS PETTY’S RICKENBACKER

Dierks Bentley premiered the music video for his spirited cover of Tom Petty’s “American Girl” with CMT. The video for the lead single from Big Machine Records’ forthcoming tribute album, PETTY COUNTRY: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty, opens with Bentley strapping on Petty’s own signature Rickenbacker guitar that was flown in from his archives in California for the shoot.

“Holding an instrument that carries so much musical history and significance was surreal, you could almost feel the stories resonate from it as I played it,” Bentley shared. “Tom Petty’s lyrics and delivery were a huge part of what made his music so impactful.”

The video airs every hour during CMT’s music video hours and will run in full throughout the day on the CMT Music channel. It will also be available on all streaming platforms .