Albany, NY

To many, Albany, NY is an unfamiliar place. People seem befuddled when reminded that it is the capital of New York, and in fact the third-largest city in the state. But this historic city should not remain a stranger to the touring musician. Albany's location, situated both three hours north of New York City and three hours west of Boston, makes it a reasonable tour stop on any trip through the area. While New York is known for the Big Apple's enormous, anything-goes arts and music scene, Albany sports a tightly knit community. It's a college town, home to seven major universities, and with students comes an active, diverse music community. The city retains an identity all its own, home to many music venues and open, supportive arms and ears.

Guide to Gigging in Albany

Book A Gig: Venues

Savannah's

1 S. Pearl St.

Albany, NY 12207

(518) 426-9647

One of the most popular venues/restaurants in Albany, Savannah's is known for booking local and national underground acts. The 30s-era décor presents a somewhat swanky charm, known to draw suited young professionals in the early evening. Yet, by nine o'clock, the place is transformed into an upbeat venue, showcasing bands almost every night. For more info call or email Laura at savannahsnightclub@yahoo.com.

Valentine's

17 New Scotland Ave.

Albany, NY 12207

(518) 432-6572

www.valentinesalbany.com

Valentine's is Albany's place for local music. Endearingly grimy, the bar/venue is known for its $2.50 beers and for showcasing primarily regional rock and punk acts, though the venue is also host to a number of touring acts.

Contact Howard for booking inquiries: kranepoop@aol.com.

Northern lights

208 Route 146,

Clifton Park, NY 12065

(518) 371-0012

www.northernlightslive.com

Northern Lights may be a half-hour drive from the heart of Albany, but the venue still attracts a good amount of draw from the capital, not to mention local bands. The venue is a good fit for more popular rock and punk acts.

For booking inquiries, email Kip at info@northernlightslive.com.

Tess' Lark Tavern

453 Madison Ave.

Albany, NY 12210

(518) 463-9779

www.larktavern.com

Tess' Lark Tåvern is known for its balanced atmosphere of music, food and company. This venue draws a diverse crowd that comes not only to hear live music, but for the occasional open-mic and poetry reading as well. Bands interested in playing should send a press kit to the above address marked ATTN: Caroline, Tess or Alex.

Revolution Hall

425 River St.

Troy, NY 12180

(518) 274-0553

www.revolutionhall.com

Revolution Hall is an up and coming Troy-based venue with acoustics that won't disappoint even the staunchest audiophile. Voted "Best New Music Venue" by the Times Union Reader's Poll in 2003, Revolution Hall is known for having excellent acoustics and architecture. It is a renovated 19th century warehouse now home to a Danley Sound Labs system and many touring underground acts.

For booking info, email blindjoni@aol.com.

Larkin Restaurant & Lounge

199 Lark St.

Albany, NY 12201

(518) 463-5225

Larkin Restaurant is known for its eclectic dinner menu while Larkin Lounge, situated above the eatery on the second floor, is known for its eclectic musical taste. A local favorite, the venue hosts punk, indie, folk, rock and electronic acts alike - all of whom share this space on both weekend and weekday nights.

For inquiries call (518) 463-5225.

Promote A Gig: Media

WRPI 91.5 FM

1 WRPI Plaza

Troy, NY 12180

(518) 276-6248

www.wrpi.org

WRPI is entirely independent, commercial-free and volunteer/student-run, known throughout the local community for its coverage of indie, folk, rock, electronic, urban and world music. Local and touring musicians can submit a show or community event for on-air or as a blurb for their website's homepage.

Metroland

419 Madison Ave.

Albany, NY 12210

(518) 463-2500

www.metroland.net

Metroland is the capitol region's alternative newsweekly. They are Albany's source for the latest news in art, music and politics. To submit, mail to the above address with ATTN: Personnel Dept.

theHiddenCity.com

Albany@thehiddencity.com

TheHiddenCity.com is a great resource for artists and musicians coming through Albany. It is an online news editorial that focuses on relaying upcoming art and music events to the public. Contact the above email for more info.

Gear/Repairs:

The Drum Clinic

14 Cramond St.

Albany, NY 12205

(518) 435-1633

The Drum Clinic offers instrument instruction, music equipment and repair, as well as equipment sales and service.

Parkway Music

1602 Route 9

Clifton Park, NY 12065

(518) 383-0300

www.parkwaymusic.com

Parkway Music offers a comprehensive selection of new, used and vintage gear as well as dedicated departments in guitar, bass, drums, effects, and pro audio. If your amp breaks on the road and you need a replacement, this is the place to go. The store is an official dealer of Fender, Voodoo, Ampeg, SWR, and more. The store also features a diverse selection of traditional instruments such as mandolins, banjos, and lap steel.