Notes from the Teeming Shore

Badfish to End First Concert Season at The BEACH @ Governors Island!!!

2009-10-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

Nothing reminds of me of summer like Sublime. With the breeze blowing through my crown and the beats ruffling my stola, the music of Sublime always seems to put me in that summer mood. And as we’ll see this Sunday at The BEACH @ Governors Island, their music is fit for rocking all year round. For the last concert of the BEACH's debut season, with opening act The Cannabis Cup Reggae Band, Badfish will pay tribute to these West Coast Kings.

Badfish is a tribute band dedicated to playing Sublime’s music. The group is named after a song from Sublime's 40 Oz. to Freedom album. Badfish formed in 2001, consisting of college-aged computer science majors. They toured on the East Coast and in the Midwest, mainly popular on college campuses. Over the years, Badfish’s popularity has grown nationally; they have done multiple national tours, playing 152 shows across the U.S. in 2006. In 2008, the band was nominated for Best Tribute Act in the Boston Music Awards.

Badfish's idols are an all-American, genre-surpassing, iTunes collection, staple. Hailing from Long Beach, CA and founded in 1988, Sublime has released three albums, 40 Oz. to Freedom (1992), Robbin' the Hood (1994), and Sublime (1996). Not easily described in under four words, most call Sublime’s music a blend of reggae, punk, hip-hop, rock, and ska. Although wildly popular throughout California and the West Coast, by 1996, Sublime was headlining tours across the U.S. including Vans Warped Tour, and finishing their third, but first major label, studio album. Sadly, in May of 1996, plagued by heroin addiction and destructive behavior, lead singer Bradley Nowell died of a heroin overdose prior to the release of their widely-acclaimed third album, Sublime.

Since Nowell's passing, there have been a few posthumous releases and even a spin-off band that includes surviving Sublime members known as Long Beach Dub Allstars (disbanded in 2002). As of September 2009, Sublime has reunited with a new lead singer and guitarist; they will play in late October at Cypress Hills’ Smokeout Festival, staying together indefinitely. Worldwide, Sublime has sold over 17 million albums, including about 10 million in the U.S. alone.

So come to The BEACH this Sunday to relive Sublime's greatest hits like “Garden Grove,” “Santeria,” and “April 29, 1992 (Miami).” Join me as I sip from a 40oz. and rock out to classic 90s Alternative Rock music.

Lovin’ is what I got. See you Sunday!

Lady Liberty

50 Cent – 50 Fest hits The BEACH @Gov_Island

2009-09-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

You will usually find him in da club, but come Saturday night you'll find him on da Beach at Governors Island.

The man of whom I speak is of course non other than rapper, actor and super star 50 Cent, or as I know him, Curtis Jackson from Jamaica, Queens. Not only will Fitty headline the first so-called “50 Fest,” he is also the first performer to sell out The Beach @Gov_Island in its first year.

After canceling a free show that was going to take place in 50's childhood neighborhood just a few months ago, 50 was on the prowl to do something bigger and better: 50 Fest. Along with friends and fellow rappers Kid Cudi, Wale, Mike Posner, and too many others to name, this day-into-night long extravaganza will be the icing on the cake for The Beach's debut concert season.

50 Cent has not officially mentioned who will or will not be there on Saturday, but all I can say is that I expect the unexpected. 50 is a natural born performer, and on that stage, in this great city, with that many rappers, there will SURELY be a party at The BEACH.

Kid Cudi will bring the party from Cleveland with his hit single “Day 'n' Nite.” Wale will bring the cool lyrics from D.C. with his single “Dig Dug (Shake It),” and Mike Posner will bring the pop dance grooves from Michigan with his chart topper “Cooler Than Me” to make 50 Fest a truly eclectic Hip-Hop festival.

There may be a lot of hype and fear about a 50 Cent show, but I assure you that The BEACH @ Governors Island producers will host a safe and awesome night of the best Rap on the scene. Unfortunately for you procrastinators you will have to wait until next year's 50 Fest, but as for me, I will be doing the crip walk in the New York Harbor.

Your Hip Hop Diva,

Lady Liberty Dollar

Buckethead to melt faces at autumn concert on The Beach at Governors Island

2009-09-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

This summer, I've enjoyed rock, hip-hop, jam, blues, trance and reggae blasting from The BEACH @ Governors Island, but no metal. That will all change when Buckethead brings his freakishly amazing guitar playing to The BEACH. In addition to creating another terrific musical performance on New York City's greatest outdoor stage, this outing with Mr. Buckethead will be an event like none other.

Buckethead's guitar virtuosity is considered to be one of the best on this planet, and on this night I will be privileged to witness his magnificent stage presence. Not only is Buckethead’s guitar playing simply superlative, but the addition of his wardrobe makes you believe you are actually at the main act of a three-ring circus instead of a rock show.

Buckethead's mystique is notorious. Nobody has ever seen his face, only his white mask complemented with his white bucket atop his head. Miss Liberty thinks that Mr. Buckethead modeled his mask in my reflection, stone-faced and smile-less, and I take this as a huge complement, and an example of Buckethead's very excellent taste in influences.

Buckethead has released 3 albums this year alone, which brings his total solo albums to 27! That's just incredible. Not to mention the countless other bands and artists with whom he has collaborated: Bootsy Collins, Bernie Worrell, Iggy Pop, Les Claypool, and Guns N' Roses. On top of that he's written and performed for several movies that include Saw II, Beverly Hills Ninjas, Mortal Kombat: Annihiliation, and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie.

This man, or ghost as some people say, will put on one of the most outrageous shows The BEACH has yet to host. Only 50 Cent may be able to top that! And the 50 Fest comes to Governors Island, Saturday, October 3rd. First, the mighty Mr Buckethead, then Mr. 50 and friends. What a season for this happy, music loving diva.

Rock on!

Lady Liberty

Lupe Fiasco Closes the Hip-Hop Take Over of The BEACH

2009-09-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, Lupe Fiasco will be kickin', pushin', and boatin' his way over to The BEACH @ Governors Island to mesmerize the crowd with mellow Hip-Hop, cool lyrics and his well produced beats. Over the last half decade, Lupe has quickly risen to the top ranks of Hip-Hop's best artists and performers.

With the production assistance of superstar Jay-Z, Lupe's first album Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor became a household name due to the instant success of “Kick, Push.” This debut album brought a cool, laid-back style of Hip-Hop to mainstream culture, which turned out to be very attractive as a contrast to the heavy hitting club rap that continues to dominate the airwaves.

As a New York gal, I've always preferred the cool aspect of Hip-Hop and cannot wait for Lupe Fiasco to hit the stage this Saturday night.

Lupe's second album Lupe Fiasco's The Cool, featuring “Superstar” with vocalist Matthew Santos, drove Lupe even higher in the ranks of Hip-Hop. Soon after its release, he formed the megagroup Child Rebel Soldier with Pharrell Williams of N.E.R.D. (another of my favorite visitors to The BEACH) and Kanye West.

This Chicago born star will be releasing his third, and apparently final, album at the end of the year titled Lasers. It's a three-disc album that features singles “Shining Down” (released in June 2009), “Army Girl,” “Ladies and Gentlemen,” and “2 Ways.”

I hope to hear the old and new Lupe songs that I've grown to love as Lupe closes the so-called “Hip-Hop Take Over of The BEACH.” It was a great, quick run, and an amazing way to experience the many variations of Hip-Hop music.

On Saturday I will feel like a superstar!

Lady Liberty

Your Hip-Hop Diva

Mos Def's Ecstatic Tour hits The Beach at Governors Island, NYC

2009-09-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, September 12th, Mos Def continues the Hip-Hop take over of The BEACH @ Governors Island by bringing his native New York City sound home with the long awaited The Ecstatic Tour. Born and raised in Brooklyn during “Hip-Hop's Golden Age” definitely shaped the young Mos Def into the incredible rapper, actor and poet that he is today.

When I look back on those days in the late 80’s to early 90’s, I think about all of the talent that I am privileged to have watched over and that I call my own: A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, KRS-One, Public Enemy, Erik B. and Rakim, Run-D.M.C. and The Beastie Boys just to name a few fellow New Yorkers. Damn, what a time.

Mos Def keeps the vibe and music from The Golden Age alive and well. The Ecstatic (2009) is his fourth solo album following the release of his first notable album Black Star (1998), which he co-created with fellow Brooklyn MC Talib Kweli.

With over 10 years of rapping and touring, and 18 years of acting under his belt, Mos Def is a prominent star in Pop and Hip-Hop culture. You may remember Mos Def from such films and as Something The Lord Made (nominated for an Emmy and a Golden Globe), The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, 16 Blocks, and Be Kind Rewind.

Mos Def's appearance at The BEACH will be one of this brand new venue's most memorable shows from the summer of 2009, and it will be the first to host a New York native. I miss the old school Hip-Hop scene, but Mos Def will definitely bring it back. So grab a 40, and let the beats move your feet.

Much love to Brooklyn!

Lady Liberty

New York City's Lost Treasure Hosts The City's 400th Anniversary

2009-09-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

I've been writing about music and festivals all summer long, but now I would like to pay homage to the man who made all of this summer's shows possible. Four-Hundred years ago, the great English explorer, Mr. Henry Hudson discovered the New York Harbor and subsequently the greatest city in the world.

According to the September 3rd New York Post, Hudson, under contract to the Dutch East India Company, sailed across the Atlantic in search of a northern sea passage to the East Indies. Just like everyone else back in those days, he reached this great land instead of his intended destination. Just goes to show you, sometimes it pays to be wrong.

Or sail “the river not taken” to paraphrase the great American poet, Robert Frost.

So this inadvertant turn by Hudson's boat, the Halve Maen, led to the first settlement in the area – Governors Island, my brother island in the New York Harbor and home to The BEACH @ Governors Island, called the best place to see out-of-doors rock 'n' roll in NYC, by Music Critic, Dan Aquilante. See? You knew I'd bring up music, but I digress so let's get back to this important little history lesson.

As a Dutch settlement, Governors Island paved the way for the Dutch Republic to spread its culture into the New World, leading to the eventual settlement on Manhattan Island known as New Amsterdam.

Governors Island was originally labeled Noten Eylant (Nutten Island) by the first Dutch settlers because of its abundance of trees that littered the island with their nuts. Yet somehow the nuts from the trees were not the only nuts to call Nutten Island home.

According to “Our Local Correspondents: Useless Beauty, What is to be done with Governors Island” in the August 31, 2009 issue of The New Yorker, Nick Paumgarten writes, “In 1637 Wouter Van Twiller, The New Netherlands director, purchased it from the natives for two axe heads, some nails, and a string of beads. He pastured goats there, and planned a mansion for himself, but he was soon summoned back to Holland, on the ground of, among other things, incompetence. (He put up windmills directly in the lee of the fort, where the wind couldn't get to them.)”

Paumgarten also writes, “An early British governor, Lord Cornbury, Queen Anne's cousin, who reputedly like to dress in women's clothing, promised to build a fort, and, in order to pay for it, imposed a tax on wearers of wigs and pearl rings, and bachelors over the age of twenty-five. He used the proceeds, instead, to build a house on the island for himself, which became known as “The Smiling Garden of the Sovereigns of the Province.” Cornbury wound up in jail, and the island's resistance to both private dominion and public enjoyment persisted.”

The two examples above just go to show you that political leaders sometimes take advantage of their people, and every once in a while, a nice little rebellion like the American War of Independence is a very good thing.

Ever since its British control, Governors Island has been through the hands of the Continental Army, the State of New York, the U.S. Army, and most previously in 1966, the Coast Guard. In 2003, President Bush agreed to sell Governors Island to the State of New York for a mere 1 dollar, which is much less than the original purchase price of two axe heads, some nails, and a string of beads. A non-profit entity called the Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation (GIPEC) has been developing and revitalizing this lost American treasure ever since.

This is a good thing for those of you who like a great walk in a park, or a free bike ride to see the very best views of yours truly. Come see me at sunset, and bring your camera because the Gov’, as I like to call it, features some of the best views of the New York City Skyline available. The beach shack serves a mean burger, and Liberty Event & HighLine Ballroom are serving up great music all summer long.

Speaking of beach parties, The BEACH hosts Armin van Buuren, one of the world's top trance DJs, who happens to be, you guessed it, Dutch, on Saturday, September 12th from 1-5pm. Armin van Buuren will entertain his native crowd, and any other American of any origin who is smart enough to take the free 7-minute ferry to the island, with his legendary trance/house beats.

Van Buuren has been voted #1 DJ twice by DJ Mag and attracts over 30 million listeners from more than 40 countries to his weekly radio show, “A State of Trance” - the most listened to radio show in the world. I believe on this particular day, there will be more than 40 countries represented in the crowd because that’s what New York City, and this country is all about.

In celebration of the early Dutch settlement and colonization of New York City, Governors Island hosts the New Island Festival from September 10-13 and 17-20 as a part of NY400 Week. The New Island Festival will feature over 150 Dutch artists, musicians, thespians, DJs, comedians, dancers, daredevils and acrobats.

Just like this French honey, the Dutch know how to have a good time. The New Island Festival on Governors Island will be a fun commemoration of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's arrival in the New York Harbor.

I also hear that a dutchman by the name of Theo Botschuijver will doing the first waterwalk in the United States and paying me a little visit

Diva can't wait.

Eten en worden gelukkig,

Lady Liberty

N.E.R.D. Opens the Hip-Hop Take Over of The BEACH @ Governors Island

2009-09-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

Next Wednesday, September 9th kicks off a ten-day span featuring three of Hip-Hop's best performers. N.E.R.D., Mos Def, and Lupe Fiasco will rule The BEACH @ Governors Island until September 19th.

Beginning this Hip-Hop stretch are N.E.R.D. with special guest Asher Roth next Wednesday evening at 6pm. N.E.R.D. has dominated the live Hip-Hop/Rock scene since their debut album In Search Of... exploded on the airwaves in late 2001. Featuring the singles “Lapdance” and “Rock Star,” In Search Of... transformed the production duo The Neptunes into Rock Stars as N.E.R.D.

N.E.R.D. consists of Pharrell Williams (lead vocals, piano/keyboards, rhythm guitar and percussion), Chad Hugo (lead guitar, piano/keyboards, saxophone and bass guitar) and Shae Haley (drums, percussion and backing vocals). But N.E.R.D. is grounded by the production ingeniousness that is The Neptunes.

The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo) is a production duo responsible for many Hip-Hop and Pop hits of the late 90s and 2000s. Some of their famed work includes Justin Timberlake's Justified album, “Beautiful” and “Drop it Like It's Hot” by Snoop Dogg, and “Money Maker” by Ludacris. But producing was not enough for Williams and Hugo; they wanted to perform their music live instead of letting everyone else get all the credit.

N.E.R.D. will surely put on quite an energetic show on September 9th. These guys know and love music. They have been playing/producing since very early ages and have a superb knack for creating party music.

Aside from music, Pharrell Williams is a very passionate artist and has created an online social network where all kinds of artists may meet, share work and collaborate. www.ARTST.com showcases people's passion for art, music, film, dance, clothing, architecture, photography and much more.

As an ambassador to the greatest melting pot on Earth, I applaud Mr. Williams in his effort to create an artistic melting pot via the internet. I just hope to see this collaboration hit the streets of New York City so that I may once again witness the makings of the world's best art.

Peace ya'll,

Lady Liberty

Bad weather for Badfish, Reggae Beach party postponed until October 4th

2009-08-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

When I heard that Liberty Event partnered with Water Taxi Beach and Highline Ballroom to create New York City's newest and best place to see out-of-doors rock 'n' roll in NYC on Governors Island, I could not be happier because I knew I would have the best and cheapest spot to watch the shows from my historic perch in the New York Harbor.

Unfortunately, this summer's weather seems to be on a different page than my favorite hard-working producers. Outdoor concerts are always tricky because of rainouts. So instead of taking the risk of a rainout, The BEACH @ Governors Island producers decided to postpone tomorrow night's Badfish show until October 4.

I was ready for a late summer Reggae party. Now things will be a little bit quiet this weekend. Guess I’ll be sneaking tunes from my ipod hidden in my tablet.

At least, The Barclay's Golf Tournament will give me something to watch, but it's no rock concert. If you miss me, check out The BEACH @ Governors Island website to see if you can spot me in one of the pictures. Here's a hint: look behind the stage.

Hopefully all the rain is gone for the summer and the remaining BEACH shows will go as planned. Next weekend will be a great family Labor Day Weekend with The End of the Line, a documentary film about today's fishing industry on Friday September 4, followed by Turntables on the Hudson's 11 Year Anniversary Music & Dance Festival on Sunday September 6.

I'll be resting up for next weeks shows, and all the other shows on the calendar:

N.E.R.D. w/ Asher Roth Sept. 9
Mos Def w/ Jay Electronica & Medina Green Sept. 12
Lupe Fiasco Sept. 19
Buckethead w/ Hellzapoppin Sideshow Sept. 26
Brazilian Girls w/ Man Man & The Phenomenal Handclap Band Oct. 2
50 Cent w/ Kid Cudl, Wale & Mike Posner, Oct. 3
And of course! Badfish w/ Easy Star All-Stars, The Cannabis Cup Reggae Band, Maui Waui & DJ I, Storm Oct. 4

Lady Liberty

Ya mon. Roll it, smoke it, and pass it to the left. Badfish, Easy Star All-Stars and others team up to bring Reggae to The BEACH

2009-08-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

The BEACH @ Governors Island comes full circle this summer by bringing Badfish, Easy Star All-Stars, The Cannabis Cup Reggae Band, Maui Waui, and DJ I, Storm this Saturday August 29 for a night of Reggae, good jams, and herbal scents.

Badfish, a tribute band to Sublime, continues the legacy of this legendary 90s Alt-Rock group. It's upsetting that Sublime cannot play today, but Badfish is a fantastic substitute that keeps the music of Sublime alive and well. They always make sure to play Sublime's classic hits and deep tracks in order to give their fans a truly Sublime experience. I'm not praising these guys just because of their graphic artist's excellent taste (he obviously has a thing for me), but because they are a great band that pays homage to some of my favorite California rockers.

Easy Star All-Stars are another tribute band, but in a very different way. They perform the music of Rock's greatest bands in dub Reggae. They have released three albums: Dub Side of the Moon (Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd), Radiodread (OK Computer by Radiohead), and Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Dub Band (Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by the Beatles). They are excellent performers who know how to lively up a crowd with Reggae versions of some of my all time favorite songs.

Rounding out the bill are The Cannabis Cup Reggae Band, Maui Waui and DJ I, Storm. Each brings another Reggae Rock element to this show to make The BEACH the place to be in New York City this Saturday.

So come join me for good vibes, good tunes, and good people.

Keep it easy,

Lady Liberty

The Barclays 2009 Golf Tournament: First of Four PGA Playoffs for the FedExCup, but Second of Two Premier Entertainment Events in Jersey City, NJ

2009-08-25T12:49:00.001-07:00

Most people who get inside my head only see one side of my personality: New York City. They fail to notice that Jersey City is also just as important to me as NYC. Although I look out onto NYC, I am actually much closer to Jersey City than I am to NYC. I am about 3000 feet from Liberty State Park, and almost 2 miles away from the closest ferry dock on Manhattan. At times, I feel closer to Liberty State Park and Jersey City than I do to The Big Apple.

One reason why I feel so proud to be connected to Liberty State Park in Jersey City is because of the high profile events that occur here in order to offer visitors something special, The New York City skyline.

Starting today, The Barclays 2009, one of the PGA TOUR's Playoff Tournaments for the FedExCup, will be the first major golf tournament in my backyard. And when I say major I mean it. I am proud to host golf's elite players, including Jim Furyk, Sergio Garcia, Steve Stricker, and of course Phil and Tiger. This tournament is no joke, and neither is its golf course Liberty National. Tight fairways and sloping greens are sure to challenge the world's best golfers.

Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods have been dubbed PGA's ultimate rivalry. Both players are ranked numbers 2 and 1 respectively, according to Official World Golf Ranking. Tiger's return to golf this year has only intensified this rivalry, and I will be right there witnessing this spectacular moment as these players swing it out for The Barclays 2009 Tournament championship.

As I look forward to a week of professional golf, I reminisce about the other events that have taken place on (or near) the grounds of Liberty State Park. The NY/NJ International Boat Show used to bring boat enthusiasts from all over the east coast to showcase their prized possessions. And who could forget the All Points West Music & Arts Festival? Although only two years old, All Points West has undoubtedly become the East Coast's premier music festival.

The aforementioned events in Liberty State Park would not be possible without Liberty Event Management. They have produced these amazing events that put Liberty State Park on the map, and consequently opened Jersey City up for more opportunities, such as The Barclays Golf Tournament.

All Points West Music & Arts Festival along with The Barclays Golf Tournament are exactly what this side of The Hudson River needs; two prominent entertainment events that bring people together to enjoy the better aspects of life.

It's not too late to score tickets to The Barclays 2009. So come check out the skyline I wake up to every morning. In the meantime, I’ll be humming tunes from 2009’s All Points West bands like Fleet Foxes, Gogol Bordello, Vampire Weekend, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arctic Monkeys, MGMT, Elbow, Echo and the Bunnymen, Jay-Z, Coldplay, and The National.

Maybe my humming will be the extra little something that Phil needs to edge out Tiger. Phil is way overdue.

Good luck, fellas. I’m fans of you both. But most of all, I’m a fan of good sports.

When you walk the tremendous par-4 508-yard 18^th and onto the final green, I’ll be watching. Remember what they say, boys. Drive for show, and putt for dough.

Love ya.

Lady Liberty

Music Lover, and Golf Fan

Quantic and His Combo Barbaro hits The Beach at Governors Island

2009-08-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

As a local gal, I could not be happier seeing The BEACH @ Governors Island become not only “best place to see out-of-doors rock 'n' roll in NYC” as Dan Aquilante, Music Critic of the New York Post recently wrote, but also a haven for local music and culture.

I am a strong believer in supporting my community and the music that comes with it. Luckily, my New York City community is so diverse that music from all over the world may be heard at The BEACH @ Governors Island.

This past Sunday, Turntables on the Hudson came to The BEACH for the second time this summer. DJs from all over the world including Beto, Busquelo, Paolo, Frankie Francis, Nickodemus, Mariano, and Nappy G on percussion entertained the crowd with their mix of Latin, Dance, Reggae and House music.

The featured band of the night was Quantic and His Combo Barbaro. This band of seasoned Latin musicians from Cali, Columbia reminded me of Buena Vista Social Club, but with a Columbian twist. Quantic and His Combo Barbaro did not miss a beat and turned The BEACH into a real South American musical experience.

As I mentioned before, the beauty of New York City is its diversity and worldly identity. The BEACH @ Governors Island is quickly becoming that spot where different cultures already living in the same city, can gather, dance and enjoy a summer night of fantastic music.

Turntables on the Hudson is coming to The BEACH one more time this summer, on Sunday, September 6th, to celebrate their 11th Anniversary. As your summer draws to an end, I highly recommend attending this event in order to experience what New York City truly offers to all the beautiful people from around the world that call this marvelous city, home.

Music for all.

Lady Liberty

The B-52's combat the thunder in one of the most amazing venues in NYC

2009-08-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

All summer long I stood tall through some of the worst weather to hit New York City in decades. From a soaked June to a scorching August, I definitely had my fair share of Mother Nature’s wrath. Yet nothing upsets me more than a good show being cancelled because of a few lighting bolts.

That was the case this past Tuesday when the B-52s show was cut short by some of the most powerful lightening I have seen in a while. Even though I was enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime experience of this classic party band, cancelling the show was the right call. The B-52s got to play several awesome songs, then had to leave the stage 4 songs short. But luckily DJs Casey Spooner and Laruen Flax of famed duo Fischerspooner kept the crowd going with an incredible set of house music.

Unfortunately I did not get to hear “Rock Lobster” and “Love Shack,” but I still had a fun night on Governors Island. Apparently I’m not the only one who had a fun time. Dan Aquilante from The New York Post wrote highly of the event and mentions Governors Island as the best outdoor spot to see Rock n Roll in New York City.

There are only 2 months left in the Governors Island concert season, but they are packed with more great music. I cannot wait for Badfish and Easy Star All-Stars next weekend, then N.E.R.D., Mos Def, Lupe Fiasco, Buckethead, Brazilian Girls, and 50 Cent. The weather will cool off, but the music will keep on burning!

The Best of the Best from All Points West for your listening and visual pleasure!

2009-08-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

So a week and a half after the All Points West Music and Arts Festival, my art-filled APW village and artists’ compound is long gone, my shoes are scraped clean from their mud-spa treatment, and the producers are reviewing RFP’s to see who gets the important job of restoring my namesake park to its pre-festival grassy, green turf.

I am now back to my quiet vigil of representing liberty and freedom, and yet I cannot get the sound of the music and beautiful energy from inside my head. I hold my torch high in salute to the bold producers who made All Points such a great success in spite of a very soggy weekend.

To reward my little muddies, yours truly, the divine Miss Liberty, has compiled the “best of the best” pictures, videos and articles for you to remember your beautiful, yet muddy, visit to this glorious, East-Coast festival known as All Points West.

So please do the following: skip work, crack open a beer, add 10 pounds of top-soil to your bathtub, turn on the shower, and get in with your clothes on, blast My Bloody Valentine till the cops get called, and you’ll feel like you’re right back at All Points West. If anyone asks why you’re following this odd recipe for musical flashback, just tell them, “Mama, said so”

Now that your feet are soggy, and shoes once again trashed, here are the best links around, with all the Rock n’ Roll attitude that will knock you off your sober ass.

Articles

For all you tree-huggers concerned about Liberty State Park’s clean-up and restoration, here are some reassuring words from Sam Pesin, President, Friends of Liberty State Park and Ken Tesler, Co-Producer of All Points West.

More calming Ken Tesler quotes about the great restoration process happening in the park from Star Ledger.

This is a quick review of thoughts from stylishly, muddy All Points West Attendees from blackbookmag.com.

A quick article from New York Times describing the East coast festival tradition (or lack thereof). With its incredible music and fan base, All Points West is the solution the East Coast needs.

Rolling Stone coverage. A large number of articles describing each day as well as great music reviews. If you want professional music journalism, with all the details that are blurry in your head, here they are.

Great Jambase 3 page article on APW and 3 pages of great Rod Snyder pics of mud and music.

Photos, blogs and videos of the music, comedians and the atmosphere during APW as presented by Star Ledger.

Brooklyn Vegan link to all the blogs written about the festival. Including videos, pictures, music and mud updates. Brooklyn Vegan has always been my better half when it comes to representing the music scene here in the harbor, and they do not disappoint. Love that Vegan guy. When I’m I going to meet you, papi, and why isn’t Notes From the Teeming Shore on your Music only Blog Roll?

Funny observations about audience participation, musicians, and of course the rain and mud from Spin magazine as summarized by day 1, day 2, and day 3 of the APW festival.

Pictures

Super nice pictures of Yeah,Yeah,Yeahs, Coldplay, muddy fans and soggy festival grounds from guestofaguest.com.

Nice pics summarizing day 2 and day 3 with all the bands and the mud included from nypress.com.

Rolling Stone Pictures. Once again, respectable journalists providing you with a nice collection of 60 music-inspired shots.

Spin’s “Best of APW” 38 artist pics. Provides artist close-ups so you can print that picture of Chris Martin and frame it above your bed. Me? I’m framing Eugene Hütz and Yuri Lemeshev of Gogol Bordello. Amen, and nighty night.

A huge list of videos and pictures shown in order of which bands withstood the rain and the mud the best from Pitchfork Media. So you’ll know which bands created unity and pride with their wet and muddy audience, something I admire.

David J. Simchock’s gallery photos. Great photographer, great pics. Enough said.

59 great pics depicting the public, grounds, and the bands at APW. Great shots representing the general atmosphere and intrepid, amazing fans involved from stereogum.com.

Nice artists pictures of cool artists such as Neko Case, Elbow, Chairlift, Tokyo Police Club, MBV, Black Keys, Coldplay, Tool and others courtesy of flaworwire.com. Nice artist close-ups so you can kiss your computer screen, and say, “Please come back, All Points West. I already miss you.”

Videos

Q-Tip video. My boy rocked the stage and now you can witness his craziness.

Very funny video from Youtube of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs Eyeball balloons, dedicated fans, mud accidents and my PA boy Ethan in the background.

Jay Z tribute to Michael Jackson video. You have probably seen it a million times, but a little too much is just enough. Michael is now dancing with Janis on the big stage in the sky. In case you’re wondering Jim, Jimi, and Elvis are also in the band.

YouTube video of “Heads will roll” by the YYY. Awesome Rocker Chick, awesome sound, awesome video. Karen, can I please borrow some of your outfits?

YouTube video of Vampire Weekend in the rain. These guys sounded great and handled the rain better than anyone. They also made the announcement that Friday ticket holders could return Saturday & Sunday. Good Move, producers.

Youtube video of Tool’s Aenema. Crazy lasers, crazy good show.

YouTube video of St. Vincent’s “Dig a Pony”. The cutest little girl with the most amazing sound.

YouTube video of Gogol Bordello’s “Not a Crime”. This was one of my favorite acts and if you watch this, you’ll see why. Spray me with Red Wine, Please !!!

Super YouTube video of the Arctic Monkeys “Fluorescent Adolescence”. The Brits rocked out like their lives depended on it.

Hope you enjoyed this little list. It brings me back and I can’t wait till next year!

Cheers to all my little muddies,

You made this concert special.

See you next year,

Miss L

B-52’s headline Lady Liberty’s Ultimate Beach Party with Meta and The Cornerstones, and Casey Spooner

2009-08-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Everybody throws around the term “new-age rock” today like it actually is new, but it’s just a revival of new-age from the 70s and 80s. Us old timers remember when new-age was truly new, like when The B-52s pioneered this genre in the mid 70s with “Rock Lobster ” and “Love Shack .”

I remember getting bored of all those hippie love songs and recycled disco tunes. Then I heard bands like the Talking Heads , Devo and The B-52s who introduced this type of geek party music. And now this genre has made a comeback, taking over mainstream pop rock 30 years later.

The B-52s style of shout-singing, synthesizers and straightforward rock drumming makes me want to rip of my long gown, throw on some spandex, and exchange my crown for a hot pink headband. Every time I listen to their new album, Funplex , I’m itching for a wardrobe change.

I’ve been diggin’ the new bands who are influenced by this sound, such as Chairlift , MGMT and The Ting Tings, but nothing beats an original. When The B-52s come to The Beach at Governor’s Island on August 18th, be sure to see me dancing like Madonna at the end of the “Like A Prayer” video.

The ultimate B-52’s Beach Party will also feature the musical talent and danceable Reggae of Meta and The Cornerstone as opening act, and Casey Spooner of Fischerspooner will spin tunes between sets, and after show. So grab yourself a ticket, and come on down to this crazy beach party in the sand.

Now I just need to find someone who can get me some spandex pants in my size. I hate standing out like a giant green statue in the crowd.

Keep dancing till then,
Miss L

All Points West Defies Torrential Rain and Mud to Earn Shot at Year 3

2009-08-07T14:56:00.000-07:00

So I am still scraping the mud from my toga and recuperating from the mud-bathed craziness and mayhem that was my glorious All Point West Music and Arts Festival. It was an amazing show by any standard, one that you will never forget unless your memory has some missing moments due to your own lack of party discipline.

Mud-drenched fans frolicked in the mire as they made their way from one amazing show to the next. Bands celebrated their wet fans and everyone from Vampire Weekend to the Nationals got their guitars soaked for the love of the festival, music, and the most amazing and loyal fans who braved Mother Nature’s PMS and rocked out with all their hearts.

Matt Berninger from the Nationals jumped into the crowd and while escaping from the over-zealous security, sang his ass off with fans and rain and mud surrounding him from all sides, a true act of fan patriotism.

Coldplay’s Chris Martin celebrated the rain as well on Sunday, thanking the fans for sticking it out in the “mud Jacuzzi” and announced “As four people who grew up in the mud and the rain, we take off our proverbial hats to you”. If a headliner is able to celebrate the mud, you better not be a bigger wussy than a group of celebrity Brits because Coldplay delivered and were right at home.

Some concert guests complained about the mud and the rain, but as a glass-is-half-full girl, I believe that the mud itself made the festival atmosphere. If you can’t celebrate the dirt, sweat, spilled beer and mud splatters that make a festival, I suggest you pack up your Gucci shoes and make your way to a Britney Spears MSG show. A festival is supposed to be filled with sweaty, dirty, communal craziness, and APW provided all the necessary components.

Even though random shoes and flip-flops were occasional war casualties absorbed by the mud puddles, it bought the fans and musicians together and set the mood for a wild Rock and Roll Slip n Slide.

One of the best fan experiences proved to be the mud-infested Do Lab DJ tent, with thousands of people dancing in the rain to the best rock and electronic mixes on this coast. Rain or shine, these people danced their asses off, if you can call some of their moves dancing.

The first day of the festival greeted fans with some rain. People made the most of it, and the atmosphere improved when Vampire Weekend, at the end of their prep-rock show, announced to the drenched fans that anyone with a one day Friday pass could return to the Saturday and Sunday shows for free.

Followed by wild cheering, this Little Miss was more than pleased with the production organizers. With all the corporate mentality, shameless sponsorship and strict security of today's concert environment, it was a real treat to see Liberty Event, Goldenvoice and AEG take care of their music loving guests.

Before the festival started, Adam “MCA” Yauch from the Beastie Boys announced the sad news of his battle against cancer. As music fans around the world wished him a quick recovery, the producers were busy getting Jay-Z to fill the Friday night headliner spot. This did not mean that the Beastie Boys' presence was not deeply felt. Musicians and fans alike celebrated the genius of the Beasties with amazing covers that melted my metal heart.

Jay-Z opened up with a bang. Accompanied by a full band, Jay Z started his 80-minute set by blasting “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” followed by his own perfect rendition. The crowd was going nuts and thousands of fans gave their all to celebrate the legacy of music.

Jay-Z wasn’t the only one who celebrated the Beasties. Karen O from Yeah Yeah Yeahs wore a "Get Well MCA" armband for Adam. And Coldplay played their acoustic and very mellowed version of “Fight for your Right to Party” along with sing-alongs, giggling and cheering from the audience.

Adam quickly responded to the love that was given:

Saw the Jay Z cover of no sleep, and the Coldplay one of fight for your right from APW on youtube. good shit. And i heard Karen O wore a "get well MCA" armband, and that q-tip gave a shout out too..... very kind of them.

Just wanted to thank them and everyone else who sent positive thoughts my way. I do think that all of the well wishes have contributed to the fact that my treatment and recovery are going well.

Much love back at all of you!

-adam

My man, Adam, is Cup-Half-Full Kinda Guy.

All Points rocked, and every band brought their own style and artistic, musical take on our world today. Rock, rap and indie intermixed beautifully throughout the three days. Gogol Bordello sprayed the crowd with red wine and probably the most chaos this lady has seen in a while.

They ran on stage and asked the audience if they are excited about seeing Tool. After cheers from the crowd, they responded, “too bad cause we beat up the whole band. Bunch of pussies.”

With all the conformity of the music industry today, a senseless act of rebellion and insult was just what I needed to refresh the industry. Because, God Damn, this country (and the music industry) is born from rebellion and independence.

Speaking of independence, and bad-ass rocker chicks, Karen O and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs delivered what they promised with amazing sound and energy and Karen O jumped and pranced every which way as only she can. Her black and white costume of sorts made the iconic show and accompanied by huge eyeball balloons thrown into the audience, the sight of the concert with amazing sound was epic.

Jay Z’s first American festival became historic, iconic, and his performance soared. He included a ten-minute shout out to his soaked fans, celebrating their destroyed kicks and a very funny salute to the fan wearing tye-dye.

Hova was so damn good that the New York Times rapped in praise. His energy never dwindled and he sounded so damn good live that he fully deserved “the best rapper alive” award that night. He celebrated his fans, Beasties, Michael Jackson and my main man Obama himself. A truly great artist.

As the festival surged on, so did the greatness of the music. Saturday bought St. Vincent’s tranquility,

My Bloody Valentine’s ear shattering, sonic experiment that made you feel like you were hanging on to the back of the space shuttle,

and the dark moody music and visuals of Tool closed out the night.

There is an awesome recap with photos here.

Other highlights included Q-Tip’s amazing old-school hip-hop on the Bullet stage. Gogol Bordello sprayed fans with red wine, Arctic Monkeys provided their F-you English attitudes and fast riffs

and Neko Case delivered her poetic and poignant, abstract indie tunes to fans that witnessed sunshine poke through the clouds.

Sunday’s schedule was cut short by a rain delay as festival organizers checked the grounds for safety issues, and monitored the radar for lightning.

Doors opened at approximately 4 PM, and Gaslight Anthem was scrubbed from the main stage to keep the schedule on track. The divine Miss L hopes to see Gaslight invited back for next year’s festival as this hometown group is one of her favorites.

Sunday’s party quickly jumped into high gear with performances by MGMT, Black Keys, Mogwai and my French countryman, Etienne de Crecy, an amazing DJ with a crazy light cube, while the mud people kept on enjoying themselves.

There’s no need to waste Miss L’s typing on Coldplay’s performance. They connected so much with the audience with their energy and audience appreciation that YouTube videos speak for themselves.

All in all, this chica had the bloody valentine time of her life.

BTW, the press is making a big fuss about how my beautiful Liberty State Park took a beating due to 71,500 fans dancing in the mud, but Sam Pesin, President of Liberty State Park, and Liberty Event ’s Ken Tesler, assure me that the site restoration team and mother nature will return my park to its usual beauty.

Yours truly would also like to remind you that Woodstock had some mud, and happy memories still abound from that glorious day on the farm. I hope the perseverant fans who enjoyed what some have coined “All Points Wet” get their due regard a decade from now.

All Points West deserves some more years to develop into the East Coast Summer Music destination its first two years have shown it has the potential to become.

In spite of the weather conditions, year two was much improved from year one, and I truly believe that the third year will be even better. Mr. Tollett, I’m a big fan, so if you’re listening, start lining up the acts for 2010, and I’ll be holding the torch.

I leave you music-loving darlings with a beautiful photograph from David J. Simchock, and more of David’s APW images are on his APW 2009 Highlights Flickr page.

My cup is half-full, and I look forward to it brimming over with music joy in 2010.

Long Live All Points West !!!

Lady Liberty

Musical Conductor

All Points West Music and Arts Festival

Singing and dancing in the Rain, and a short story about Miss Liberty's Spa treatment

2009-07-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

There are certain times when Mother Nature just doesn't care about your well-laid plans, your lists, or the people you need to meet, and no matter how you pray, and wish, and beg, Nature just has her way.

It's sprinkling on my All Points West Festival early this July 31st. Looks like the Fleet Foxes will feel right at home on APW day one 2009, and in their honor, I'm listening to "Sun it Rises."

What’s up with all this rain? You don’t need to record the almost daily downpour in your diary to know this has been one of the wettest summers on record, and I have seen lots of summers to know.

What you really need is a waterproof wardrobe. So grab your super cool, breathable rain jacket, shoes that will keep your feet dry, and come over to the festival.

Miss Liberty (and her music loving friends) can handle the elements and forces of nature out here, but I miss the sunshine and I need a little attention. You girls know what I mean. It was about twenty-five years ago when they said it was time for me to get a little lift. I called it a much-needed beautification after a hundred years of neglect.

I said bring on the oil and deep tissue massages, give me my moisturizer! I am ready for a day at the spa with TLC.

Speaking of TLC, just wanted to applaud the beloved, and sorely missed, Lisa Left Eye Lopez for being my main girl and bringing Safe Sex awareness to the MTV generation. This Freedom Woman applauds strong girls with a mission. I know Lisa is dancing in waterfalls somewhere safe.

Back at the spa, my historic renovation was led by an amazing architect named Blaine Cliver. He restored my copper skin and strengthened my beautiful frame that I have maintained. Not to brag, but I have not added one ounce since I arrived in 1876. That was part of the deal when I left France. French Women Don't Get Fat.

Cliver claimed water damage had taken a toll; it wasn’t the sun or the late nights, it was the water.

Cliver removed my rusted torch and replaced it with a new torch made of solid copper and gilded with shiny gold leaf.

Then the spa workers busily peeled back my outer copper layer and replaced each of the 1,800 rusted iron support bars underneath, I can’t even tell you how great that felt. Calgon take me away.

The crazy thing about the rain and winds from the harbor is that they have also strengthened me. I say it is the magical healing powers of salt and water mixed with the mighty New York City air. Always reminds me of Chicago’s song “Another Rainy Day in New York City.”

In 1925, a New York Sun editorial stated: “Salt air has given ‘Miss Liberty’ her present sea-green complexion, so often remarked from passing liners. Deep-sea winds brawling up the Narrows from Sandy Hook have oxidized her copper and provided a weatherproof coating, which, her custodians say, will make her last forever … or as long as stone and metal hold together.”

Rain is also beautifully melancholy as demonstrated by Gary Allen in "About Rain."

I hope you like dancing in the rain

I'll spin you around and pull you back to me

I sure am glad you wore that dress

It reminds me of the night that we first met

Don't you love the evenings in July

when I'm staring at you with my blue eyes

And we could be fine

We could be fine, fine, fine

So roll the windows down and put the car in drive

It's starting to rain a little bit outside

And I've had you on my mind for some time

And why did you go

Why did you leave

I can't forget about you and me.

I'd like to leave you with some beautiful lyrics from my favorite Seattle songsmiths, Fleet Foxes, who I said previously, careful reader, will be very much at home in this summer's wet weather. Miss Liberty also appreciates the Foxes because they aren't afraid to show some love for our American Flag.

What a life I lead when the sun breaks free

As a giant torn from the clouds

What a life indeed when that ancient seed

Is a berry watered and plowed

What a life

What a life I lead in the summer

What a life I lead in the spring

What a life I lead in the winded breeze

What a life I lead in the spring

So don’t be soft. Come out and enjoy the great outdoors. With rain, or without, we will dance until the final song of this glorious East Coast Festival, All Points West.

You are mighty, beautiful and water-proof. I love you.

Lady Liberty
Official Music Conductor
All Points West Music and Arts Festival

Jersey City Gem - All Points West

2009-07-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

Some of my music loving friends may be afraid to break out from their beloved boroughs and head to Jersey City. Miss Liberty, by way of The New York Press has got you covered with some tricks to keep you feeling right at home. Did I mention drinks?

Mama knows you're coming for the music, but you'll love the Art.

I've provided you a small virtual tour of last year's show here.

The picture above is Girl Talk aka Gregg Gillis rockin' the 2nd stage, and this year we've got Peanut Butter Wolf killing in the new dance tent.

The Divine Miss L is feeling her happy feet already, and I'm gonna see my boy Hova for a little soundcheck later this afternoon.

My torch will be bopping to the beat. Look carefully. And listen to your mother.

XOXO

Miss L.

Follow my Directions to All Points West Music and Arts Festival

2009-07-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hello, my little darlings. I'm a little stiff and tight from all the rubber necking I've been doing.

The team at All Points West is creating an art filled wonderland for all of you to enjoy the great musical artists this weekend. You better have bought your ticket 'cause yours truly would hate to see you miss the show everyone will be talking about come Monday after Coldplay closes the festival on Sunday night.

The tents are up, Production Offices are in, and there's about a thousand people running around talking on cellphones and walkie-talkies.

These are some helpful directions for you to visit me, and get to the show.

Over in my other favorite venue, The Beach @ Governors Island, Liberty Event and New York Water Taxi are hosting "Turntables on the Hudson." Today's show features DJ's Nickodemus & Mariano + Nappy G & Christian Rogers on percussion. Also, The Pimps of Joytime LIVE with Special guest DJ set Jovanotti with Soleluna's Saturnino and more! The place is crazy, jumping and I'm looking forward to another Motz Burger, and a cranberry tea.

Don't forget. I love you all, and I want you to come and celebrate the greatest music festival since Coachella. Bonnaroo has camping. Big deal.

All Points West has ME, and the New York Skyline. See you soon.

The divine Miss L.

I got 99 Problems, but a Headliner for All Points West ain’t one: Jay-Z confirmed for Friday at APW

2009-07-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

As you all know Lady Liberty is deeply saddened about the recent news surrounding Adam ‘MCA’ Yauch’s diagnosis of glandular cancer. Yet, I am hopeful that his surgery will go well, and the Beastie Boys member will be back on the road, and maybe even perform at All Points West 2010.

However, the producers for APW have worked hard through the night and have secured a very special replacement for the Friday night headlining slot. The Beasties Boys fellow Brooklynite, Jay-Z is prepared to play his first and only scheduled US festival outing on July 31st.

I have watched Hova grow up from freestylin’ at the Marcy Projects to headlining Madison Square Garden. All I can say is that I feel honored to have the best rapper alive finally play in my Jersey City backyard.

Though this may be a very last minute announcement, Miss Liberty is convinced Jay-Z is a welcomed addition, and he has the power to truly make APW a leader in the US festival circuit.

I can only hope that my girl and Jay’s wife Beyonce will make an appearance at his set, getting all the single ladies riled up.

Though this is surprisingly Jay-Z’s first American festival appearance in his twenty-plus year career, he gained festival experience last year as he headlined multiple European summer festivals, most notably Glastonbury Festival in England.

We can only hope Jiggaman brings the same energy and attitude as he did at that performance. I suggest you watch the video below of Jay-Z opening his set with Oasis’ “Wonderwall,” a direct response to the insults given by the Manchester group regarding a rapper headlining the traditionally rock oriented festival.

Jay-Z will headline All Points West Friday night July 31 amongst many of today’s most popular indie rockers including Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Vampire Weekend, Fleet Foxes and the National. However, more importantly, he will play amongst many other hip-hop artists including Q-Tip, Pharcyde, and Organized Konfusion.

I am anticipating some interesting collaborations, or maybe some Queens vs. Brooklyn action between Q-Tip and Jigga.

Check his MySpace page to hear his new single “Death of Auto-tune,” a small preview to his upcoming album the “Blueprint 3.” Tickets are still on sale here, but hurry up since they are sure to go fast after this huge announcement.

Brooklyn Go Hard,

Lady Liberty

A killer ending to a phenomenal weekend of music and art: Coldplay closes All Points West

2009-07-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

The biggest Pop Rock band in the world will be headlining All Points West on Sunday August 2^nd. No, not the Jonas Brothers, it’s Coldplay! This Grammy winning band from London, England has dominated the charts since their debut album Parachutes, featuring “Yellow” in 2000. Almost a decade later, Coldplay continues to be one of the biggest names in music.

It’s not worth it to me to describe Coldplay’s music because you cannot avoid hearing “Viva la Vida” from their latest album Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, everywhere. I have been a bit out of the loop because my crown was temporarily closed, but after this past 4^th of July weekend I must have heard “Viva la Vida” 100 times as people’s ringtones. I’m telling you, those cell phone speakers are just as good as those 80s boom boxes that used to roll through my head.

This may be a bit of a stretch, but I feel a bit connected to Chris Martin, Coldplay’s singer. His wife, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, went to The Spence School for high school in New York City. I used to watch her strut her stuff walking down those New York avenues, and I always knew she would be a star.

Chris and Gwyneth must really love the Big Apple, considering they named their first born daughter after my great city. In fact, I recently learned that Apple Blythe Alison Martin is not the only apple in the Coldplay bushel. One of the band’s associates’ daughter is named Apple as well.

Coldplay’s magnificent live performances are filled with mellow rock songs that instill their audiences with a spiritual feeling. This show combined, with myself and Lower Manhattan in the backdrop, will surely be one of the most memorial experiences in my 200+ years of statuing. I just downloaded 9 of their songs for free from their website and am psyched for this show.

Coldplay is the icing on the cake for what will undoubtedly be the best weekend of summer 2009. Thinking about what I just said, this weekend will be one of the best events that end the first decade in the new millennium. Joined by legendary Tool and Jay-Z with 60 other fantastic musicians and comedians, Coldplay will cement All Points West as the East Coast’s premier music festival.

How did I get so lucky that all of this is happening in my backyard? Patience truly is a virtue.

Miss L.

Elbow elbows their way to All Points West

2009-07-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

It seems fitting, as the ambassador to immigrants and visitors to the U.S.A., that I get to host bands from all of the world to perform at All Points West. Coldplay, Gogol Bordello, My Bloody Valentine, Arctic Monkeys, The Ting Tings, MSTRKRFT, Mogwai and Etienne De Crecy are some of the artists making the trip abroad to rock the stage in Liberty State Park July 31^st – August 2^nd.

In addition to this multinational lineup is Elbow. This British Alternative Rock band has been recording and touring since 1990, opening for Coldplay and U2 on numerous tours. Although Elbow has not received commercial success like their musical counterparts, they continue to play with passion and for the love of music.

Elbow has recorded and released four albums. Their latest, The Seldom Seen Kid, came out on March 17, 2008, and features the songs “Grounds for Divorce” and “One Day Like This.” They have a heavy tour this summer spanning all over North America and Europe. I always appreciate foreigners with a strong work ethic, considering their ancestors built this great nation. Don't think I forget about the thousands of ships that have sailed past my home in the harbor.

Elbow has a truly unique and sensual sound. Lead singer Guy Garvey's deep voice and strong British accent makes this rock band a pleasant listen. Guitarist Mark Potter, keyboardist Craig Potter, bassist Pete Turner and drummer Richard Jupp provide the powerful musical elements that will make their performance at All Points West on Sunday August 2nd a must see.

With only 2 weeks until the festival I'm getting antsy on my pedestal. I need some music to blow me off my stand and onto the park. See all of you soon!

Miss L

From the mountains to the City: Northwest Indie Folk Makes it's Way to the Teeming Jersey Shores

2009-07-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

What? You don’t think that indie buzz cred makes its way all the way to yours truly?

Just because I soar the skies of New Jersey does not mean I do not know what all you hip kids are listening to. Last year, like everyone else in the blogosphere, I fell in love with Seattle, Washington’s very own Fleet Foxes. Combining elements of indie and medieval folk to create what they call “baroque harmonic pop jams,” the five-piece are quintessential dudes with beards and plaid group.

But the Foxes stand above the rest with their hauntingly beautiful multi-person vocal harmonies (a rarity in today’s music), unorthodox song structures that retain a pop sensibility, and engaging lyrics that stem from nature, family and personal struggle. Those lucky enough to have caught them live in their short touring history are well aware of Fleet Foxes’ addicting transcendent live performance.

In 2008, Fleet Foxes released both their EP Sun Giant and their first full length Fleet Foxes to high praised reviews from throughout the world. The Guardian named the full length “a landmark in American music, an instant classic.” After catching the attention of multiple media sources, Fleet Foxes went from a small club playing band opening up for other small indie bands to international headliners, that are close to the top of every festival bill they play.

A must see band, Fleet Foxes have announced on their MySpace that their September 16 show with Blitzen Trapper in Paris will be their last until they finish recording their next album, of which I, like the rest of the world, am particularly excited to hear.

The long-awaited return of Fleet Foxes to the New York area commences July 31, 2009 at the All Points West Music and Arts Festival that features Coldplay, Tool and Jay-Z . For more information go the Liberty Event and APW sites and follow libertyevent on Twitter. Buy your APW tickets and tell EVERYONE you know that this truly is one of those not-to-be-missed performances at this year's number one East Coast Festival.

I’ll be leading the harmonies, and conducting the Foxes with my torch!

Grab yourself a bottle of “pop” and come on down. I'll be flying my flannel.

Miss Liberty

Ting Tings cross oceans to rock out All Points West

2009-07-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

I always love visitors from across the pond, especially when they rock as hard as The Ting Tings.

This duo just hit the scene 2 years ago with their singles “That’s Not My Name” and “Great DJ.” I have yet to see them live, but from what I hear, they’re not too shabby.

Katie White and Jules De Martino hail from England, but have been touring around the United States for the past year and a half selling out numerous shows. This summer they will tour with Pink following their visit to my park for All Points West on Saturday August 1^st.

These innovators take new-age rock to a whole new level with their sophisticated sound and their catchy lyrics. Martino holds it down with the drums, but also uses electronics to add color to The Ting Tings’ music. White plays a funky punky guitar and bass, but her playful yet seductive voice is what I am most excited for.

I cannot wait to see how The Ting Tings make their recordings come to life on stage. I’m just glad that I have the best spot in the house so I know I won’t miss it.

Cheers mate and see you at the show,

Miss L.

All Points West -- Miss Liberty's helpful tips of Do's and Don'ts

2009-07-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

As the All Points West Music and Arts Festival draws near, I am going to give all of you festival goers my 2 cents in regards to the do's and don'ts of what to bring and how to behave. Remember, I'm old enough to be your great-great-great-great grandmother, so heed my advice.

Here are some crucial items to make sure you do NOT forget:

Sunglasses
Sun block
Bug spray
Comfortable shoes and clothes
Rain coat/poncho
Bathing suit for the Do LaB
Money for water, food, booze, water, water, and more water
Prescription medicine PRESCRIBED TO YOU!!!

Here are some items you may want to bring, but are not necessary:

Medium sized backpack
Cell phone
Beach towel
Cameras
EMPTY water bottle
Recreational toys (ie. footballs, frisbees)
Cigarettes
Lighter
Pocket flashlight
Stroller for infants/toddlers only

And of course, what NOT TO BRING TO APW:

Drugs
Alcohol
Tents
Professional cameras (if it has a removable lens, it is not allowed)
Chairs
Food
Coolers
Weapons
Fireworks/explosives/pyrotechnics
Laser pointers
Pets
Blankets, but you can bring a towel
Musical instruments
Flags
Umbrellas

Security is well aware of sneaky hiding spots (cigarette cases, backpacks, chapstick containers, etc.) so please leave your special goodies at home.

For helpful tips on how to get to and from the festival visit www.apwfestival.com/directions/. For a list of local hotels/motels visit www.apwfestival.com/hotels/.

I hope all of that info helps. I cannot believe the festival is less than 2 weeks away!!!

Now who's going to look after my torch for the weekend?

The very divine Miss Liberty
Music Conductor
All Points West Music and Arts Festival

Best Wishes to Adam "MCA" Yauch for a speedy recovery

2009-07-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

I would like to take this time to wish Adam Yauch, better known as MCA of the Beastie Boys, a speedy and successful recovery from surgery and radiation to remove the cancer in his lymph node and salivary gland. I have watched over these boys as they grew and evolved from a punk rock band into rap stars, and it saddens me to hear the bad news. According to Adam, the cancer is very treatable, and the Beastie Boys should be back on stage in late September.

Adam "MCA" Yauch

For those of you who may not know, my Beastie Boys are one of Hip-Hop’s most influential and legendary artists. Their first album License to Ill (1986), features songs that continue to clog radio waves across the globe. You can be sure to find “She’s Crafty,” “Girls,” “Fight For Your Right,” “No Sleep till Brooklyn,” and “Brass Monkey” on my party playlist.

Over the past 20 years of touring and recording, Mike D, MCA, Ad-Rock and Mix Master Mike have consistently produced songs that invoke us to party and forget about our troubles as well as raise our social and political consciousness. Their new album Hot Sauce Committee Part I is unlike any of the Beasties’ previous albums. The Beastie Boys are back on their instruments pumping out hardcore punk tunes mixed with their classic rap style.

Ad-Rock

I wish I could have seen these guys perform these new songs in my very own backyard, but now I only wish the best for Adam and his family. I have no news in regards to who will replace the Beastie Boys, and I am just as anxious as you. I still hope to see you all there with me on the night of Friday July 31^stto welcome whomever comes to close the first night of a fantastic All Points West weekend.

Mike D

My Heart is With You Adam,

Lady Liberty

Will Tony Manero dance to Metal? Tragedy rocks Governors Island

2009-07-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Once in a while, something truly unique and wonderful happens. A band comes along and actually makes Disco music fun and worth a listen. Tragedy: All Metal Tribute to the Bee Gees does just that with the timeless songs from their Disco idols. Tragedy is not quite a cover band, since they do put an original twist on these classic Disco songs.

Don't expect John Travolta to be strutting his stuff to “You Should be Dancing” at this concert, but do expect a colorful stage instead of a light up dance floor. Tragedy will be sure to turn The BEACH into a heavy metal discotheque. The disco ball will be shinning bright and “the hustle” will be in full action, mixed with the sign of the horns of course!

Tragedy is a full-fledged metal band. Distorted guitars, high-pitched screams and glittery stage costumes make this tribute band remind me of the days of Gary Glitter, The New York Dolls, and KISS.

They are fun, exciting, supremely energetic and know how to Rock out on stage. Make sure you don't miss this free extravaganza at The BEACH @ Governors Island on Saturday July 18^th at 2:00pm, produced by Liberty Event and Highline Ballroom.

For Those About To Rock,

Lady Liberty Salutes You

Fueled by creativity, MGMT plays All Points West

2009-07-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you mix two young creative minds, synthesizers, shaggy hair and psychedelic drugs in a bowl already filled with more drugs?

Well, MGMT of course.

I don’t usually condone drug use, but if it’s responsible for making great dance-synth-new-new-wave-pop, then by all means. These college graduates are not searching for jobs like everyone else who just graduated because they have the best job in the world: Rock Stars!

I am proud to call Ben Goldwasser and Andrew VanWyngarden, who met at Wesleyan University, my new neighbors as they currently hail from Brooklyn. Sometimes I wish I could live in Brooklyn, wear multicolored Nike Dunks and tight green jeans, but the President says I have to maintain a classy look.

MGMT’s debut album, Oracular Spectacular, blasted onto the dance-pop scene two years ago, and within one year helped make MGMT one of the most sought after bands of 2008. They will be touring this summer playing their hits from Oracular Spectacular, including “Time to Pretend,” “Electric Feel,” and “Kids,” as well as performing new songs from their upcoming album Congratulations.

These kids are fun, energetic and musically talented; a great recipe for a spectacular performance at All Points West on Sunday August 2^nd. And don’t be surprised if I happen to change colors during their performance. It will probably be because of something you just ate.

Catch you on the flip side,

Miss L

I'm Fair Puckled for Mogwai at All Points West!

2009-07-15T09:46:00.001-07:00

With no vocalist, Mogwai may be the only performer at All Points West without a vocal mic on stage.

Come Sunday August 2^nd, Liberty State Park will be listening to the intricate yet emotive melodies of Mogwai’s Scotish musicians. Instead of words (because there are none) Mogwai uses guitar, bass, drums, and electronics to deliver a musical message: Rock!

Stuart Braithwaite (Guitar) and Bassist Dominic Aitchison (Bass) met in Glasgow, Scotland in 1995. Four years later, when Martin Bulloch (Drums) was added to the mix, Mogwai was born, but the band needed something more. John Cummings (guitar) joined the band as another dimension to create an even more powerful guitar-focused Rock group. After their debut album Mogwai Young Team (1997) was released, Barry Burns (guitar/keys), who had been performing with the band, was added to the lineup. The band has not changed since this addition.

I’ve seen my fair share of Scots, obviously not as many as Irish and Italians, come into this great country. I enjoy their rough demeanor and country attitude, but when they rock, they rock hard. This skinny malinky longlegs is excited that Mogwai is traveling all the way to New Jersey the day after a show in London for their only U.S. show this summer.

Lang may yer lum reek! (May you live long and stay well!)

Miss L