Tag: live music

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JD Nash: Finding Strength in Music Amidst the Battle with Cancer

In a heartfelt display of resilience and passion, JD Nash, the beloved local troubador, continues to rehearse with his band even while undergoing chemotherapy. Recently featured on Edgar Wonder’s Instagram Story, JD is seen rocking his signature hat over the bald head characteristic of his treatment. The image of the band rehearsing, all wearing masks to protect JD’s compromised immune system, is a powerful testament to their solidarity and determination.

“I felt strong enough to rehearse while I’m in between these rounds of chemo,” JD shared, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll of his treatment. “Not everyone knows how hard it can be to go through chemo.” His commitment to his music and his bandmates is unwavering, even in the face of such daunting challenges.

Despite his strength, JD’s journey has not been without its harrowing moments. He recently experienced a Neutropenic episode, a severe complication that left him with dangerously low white blood cell counts, requiring an emergency visit to the hospital. “It was a nightmare situation,” JD recounted, describing the strained conditions at UNMH, where overextended staff struggled to provide the necessary care.

Amidst these struggles, JD finds solace and motivation in the unwavering support of his wife, Isla, and his band. Their love and encouragement are vital sources of strength for him as he navigates this difficult journey. “The things that keep me going are my wonderful wife Isla and the band,” JD expressed with deep gratitude.

Looking forward, JD is determined to continue pursuing his passion for music. He is planning to perform at Summer Fest Nob Hill on July 21, an event eagerly anticipated by his fans. There, he will be selling vinyl copies of his new record, “Like Water,” a project that reflects his enduring spirit and creative drive.

JD Nash’s story is one of remarkable resilience and the healing power of music. His ability to find strength in the face of adversity inspires not only his fans but also the broader community. As he prepares for his upcoming performance, the support and admiration of those around him continue to fuel his fight against cancer, one note at a time.

Photos Courtesy of JD Nash & The Rash Of Cash

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The Ultimate Guide to Albuquerque’s Top Music Venues

Albuquerque, New Mexico, boasts a vibrant and diverse music scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city’s many music venues provide both local musicians and touring acts with the perfect stages to showcase their talents. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top music venues in Albuquerque, discussing their capacity, atmosphere, and the types of acts they typically host.

Launchpad

Easily Albuquerque’s most well-known and beloved music venue, Launchpad tops our list for its accessibility to everyday musicians and its ability to host big touring acts. With reasonably priced drinks and an energetic atmosphere, Launchpad has long been a staple of Albuquerque’s music scene.

Inside Out

Located right next door to Launchpad, Inside Out is another popular venue owned and operated by the same team. This indoor/outdoor roofless venue boasts a classier vibe, hosting great events with excellent sound quality during the warm months. Though the drinks may be a bit pricier, the experience is well worth the cost.

Moonlight Lounge

The intimate Moonlight Lounge is also owned by the same team behind Launchpad and Inside Out. As a rite of passage for local musicians, this small, purpose-built venue regularly hosts smaller touring bands. While it’s easy to get a show here, it helps if you know a guy.

Marble Brewery Downtown

With an amazing mural as a backdrop and a huge capacity, Marble Brewery Downtown is the perfect place to catch some of New Mexico’s best artists. The venue hosts energetic shows during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, guaranteeing a fantastic time for all who attend.

Sunshine Theater

As one of Albuquerque’s biggest venues, the Sunshine Theater is known for its great sound quality and impressive roster of acts. Bigger artists often grace the stage of this historic venue, making it a must-visit for music lovers in the city.

Isleta Amphitheater

The Isleta Amphitheater is Albuquerque’s largest outdoor arena for live music. Hosting some of the biggest national acts, this venue’s performances are always special, given that not many national artists visit Albuquerque. With its massive capacity and impressive lineup, the Isleta Amphitheater is a must-visit destination for concert-goers.

Revel

Revel is one of Albuquerque’s newest indoor venues, featuring a massive stage with incredible sound quality, a food court, and a smaller stage inside their dueling piano bar. As a modern addition to the city’s music scene, Revel offers a fresh and exciting experience for fans and musicians alike.

Sister Bar

Rounding out our list is Sister Bar, a hip and comfortable venue known for its amazing vibes. While they have somewhat niched the type of bands they host, many of them are locally beloved, and the sound quality is excellent. Sister Bar’s phenomenal drink selection only adds to the appeal, making it a top choice for music lovers in Albuquerque.

Lizard Tail Nob Hill

Introducing Lizard Tail Nob Hill, a post-pandemic gem that began hosting live music in late 2021. Committed to supporting musicians, they offer fair compensation and host performances multiple days a week. This intimate venue features a welcoming long bar, cozy seating, and a charming patio, creating the perfect atmosphere for enjoying live music in a relaxed setting.

High and Dry Brewery

High and Dry Brewing offers a fantastic live music experience with its designated stage area, complete with professional lighting that adds to the ambiance. The bar’s sleek design is complemented by a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for soaking in Albuquerque’s gorgeous weather while listening to delightful tunes. Catering to a wide range of performers, High and Dry features touring acts, local talent, and more on Saturday nights. Their strong social media presence is due, in part, to a successful collaboration with Monsoon Music House for event organization. Enjoy a phenomenal live music experience every Saturday at High and Dry Brewing, where great atmosphere and excellent performances come together.

JUNO

Juno Brewing Co a post-pandemic treasure, offers a diverse range of live music experiences with two separate stage areas. From elegant salsa nights and dance classes to exhilarating rock and roll shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The brewery’s delightful food and drink selections complement the lively atmosphere, making it a fantastic venue to appreciate live performances. The expansive outdoor stage area accommodates various acts, ensuring a fresh and unique experience each time. With live music events scheduled on multiple nights per week, Juno Brewery is a go-to destination for a memorable night out in Albuquerque.

Echoes Brewery

Echoes Brewery, the spiritual successor to the iconic Dingo Bar and Burt’s Tiki Lounge, is quickly gaining recognition as a go-to music venue. Though still in its early stages, Echoes already boasts exceptional beer and a vibrant atmosphere. Its modern, open-floor design is beautifully accented by rustic exposed brick walls and concrete flooring. As a nod to its storied predecessors, musicians are drawn to this inviting venue, both eager to perform and pay their respects to the legendary establishments that came before it. With shows every Friday and Saturday night, Echoes Brewery promises a captivating experience for music lovers seeking a fresh, lively ambiance in Albuquerque.

Green Jeans

Green Jeans, an eclectic outdoor venue, offers regular live music during the warmer months. With its industrial-chic aesthetic, this unique spot is constructed entirely from shipping containers and hosts a variety of local shops. The lively atmosphere, complemented by the great music, makes it an inviting destination to unwind with your favorite beer and a tasty meal. Come experience the charm and creativity that Green Jeans brings to the Albuquerque scene, and see for yourself why it’s becoming a go-to spot for entertainment and leisure.

La Chancla DIY

La Chancla is an incredible venue for music and art that offers a safe and inclusive space for all. The team of femme, trans, and queer individuals who run La Chancla take pride in creating an environment that is anti-nepotism and anti-status quo, making it a refreshing addition to the Albuquerque community. What sets La Chancla apart is their focus on giving a platform to locals equally, which means that you are sure to discover new and exciting local artists that you may not have found anywhere else. The performances are raw, unfiltered, and passionate, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

The space itself is cozy and intimate, allowing you to connect with the performers and other audience members on a personal level. It’s clear that the team at La Chancla puts their heart and soul into every event they host, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all who attend.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable music and art experience in Albuquerque, La Chancla is the place to be. With their commitment to inclusivity and supporting local artists, you can feel good about supporting a venue that truly cares about its community.

Secret Gallery

Secret Gallery is a unique art organization that represents the contemporary arts and cultural landscape of the Southwest. Their gallery exhibits are a perfect reflection of the diversity and creativity that the region offers. The gallery offers a wide range of exhibitions that showcase the talents of both established and emerging artists. Their aim is to create a space that offers artists from all backgrounds an opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience. Secret Gallery is dedicated to nurturing and supporting the local art scene, with the goal of creating a thriving arts community in the Southwest. If you are a lover of art and culture, Secret Gallery is a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Albuquerque’s music scene is thriving, thanks in part to its diverse array of venues. From intimate lounges to massive outdoor arenas, there’s a stage for every type of musician and music fan in this vibrant city. Be sure to check out these top music venues when you’re in Albuquerque for a memorable and enjoyable live music experience.

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Karlina Band Celebrates One Year of Soulful Pop Magic at Launchpad

Albuquerque’s vibrant music scene continues to thrive, thanks to talented artists like Karlina Band. The group recently celebrated their one-year anniversary with a high-energy performance at the popular venue, Launchpad. Their unique blend of soul and pop captivated the audience, making it a night to remember.

The lineup consists of a female vocalist who also plays keys, a guitar player, a drummer, and a bassist. Together, they create a captivating sound that’s equal parts soulful and infectious. The band’s fashion is casual yet attractive, complementing their musical style and stage presence.

Karlina Band’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. The lead vocalist, Karlina, showcased incredibly strong vocals that soared through the venue. The entire band demonstrated an amazing energy and a genuine love for performing, which resonated with the enthusiastic crowd that had gathered to celebrate their one-year milestone.

One standout feature of the show was the band’s excellent crowd interactions. The members engaged the audience, making everyone feel like a part of the experience. This connection added an extra layer of enjoyment to the performance and showcased the band’s charisma.

Another impressive aspect of Karlina Band’s performance was the seamless transitions between songs. Their ability to maintain fluidity and cohesion throughout the set demonstrated their professionalism and musical prowess. This level of skill is something that every artist should strive to achieve, as it creates a smooth and enjoyable experience for the audience.

The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable. They played exceptionally well together and seemed to have a deep connection, both musically and personally. This bond was evident in their catchy, familiar, yet exciting original songs, which had the crowd singing and dancing along.

Karlina’s stage presence was a sight to behold. Off stage, she might appear reserved and dry-humored, but once she stepped into the spotlight, she transformed into a bright and bold performer. Her captivating presence and look truly shined throughout the show.

During the performance, Karlina shared the band’s journey with the audience, prompting cheers and hollers from her bandmates. The guitarist, Ryan, chimed in with clever banter, adding to the entertaining dynamic on stage. Each member of the band has a unique charisma that makes them radiant and attractive in their own way, contributing to the overall appeal of the group.

Watching Karlina Band live is an experience not to be missed. Their captivating performance, coupled with their soulful pop sound and undeniable chemistry, makes for a truly unforgettable night of music. As they continue to grow and evolve, they’re sure to become a staple in Albuquerque’s thriving music scene.

Conclusion

Karlina Band’s one-year anniversary performance at Launchpad was a testament to their talent and passion for music. With their unique blend of soul and pop, magnetic stage presence, and undeniable chemistry, they’ve quickly become a must-see act in Albuquerque. As the band enters its second year, fans can eagerly anticipate more captivating performances and unforgettable nights of soulful pop magic from Karlina Band.

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Firebird FM: Albuquerque’s Classic Rock Sensation Debuts at Launchpad

Albuquerque’s thriving music scene has always been home to innovative and unique talents. The recent debut of Firebird FM at Launchpad proves that the city’s diverse musical landscape continues to flourish. This rising classic rock sensation delivered an electrifying performance that captivated the audience from start to finish. With their diverse LGBTQ+ lineup and undeniable talent, Firebird FM is quickly making a name for themselves.

Taking inspiration from classic rock legends, Firebird FM has crafted a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. The band features powerful female vocals, keyboard, guitar, drums, and bass, creating a sonic experience that evokes the golden age of rock. Their fashion sense is equally fitting, showcasing a rock and roll aesthetic with leather and black ensembles.

One of Firebird FM’s distinguishing factors is the diversity of its band members. Everyone in the group, except the bass player, identifies as either gay or transgender. This unique dynamic adds depth to their music and stage presence, demonstrating that rock and roll transcends boundaries when it comes to love and self-expression.

The supportive atmosphere at Launchpad was evident as the crowd cheered for Firebird FM. Fans were treated to a setlist filled with strong guitar riffs and soaring vocals, making it clear that this band had already struck a chord with their listeners. A standout track showcased Firebird FM’s ability to create anthemic moments, with the audience enthusiastically singing along.

Remarkably, this was only Firebird FM’s second or third show together, yet their chemistry and stage presence suggested that of a seasoned group. The Launchpad debut showcased their dedication and hard work, leaving fans eager for more.

Firebird FM’s future in the Albuquerque music scene looks promising. Their infectious energy, classic rock sound, and diverse crowd make them stand out among local acts. As they continue to play more shows and refine their sound, they’re bound to gain a loyal following of fans who appreciate their unique blend of classic rock and modern sensibilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Firebird FM’s performance at Launchpad was a night to remember. The band’s classic rock sound, diverse lineup, and passionate LGBTQ+ representation set them apart from other local acts. As they grow and evolve, they’re sure to become a major hit in Albuquerque and beyond. Keep an eye on Firebird FM, as their destiny is to soar to new heights in the music world.