The Island Ear
Do This: Long Island Concerts & Events October 15 – 21
Passafire
Nonstop touring propelled this Georgia-based band to create its powerful mix of music, a hint of rock over a unique foundation of reggae. Opening the show are Lionize and Backbeat Sound System. Revolution Bar and Music Hall, 140 Merrick Rd., Amityville. clubloaded.com $15. 7 p.m. October 15.
A temporary ceasefire in the age-old rivalry between Long Island and New Jersey will allow these punk stalwarts from the Garden State to bring their fast-paced, hard-charging singalongs to the South Shore. Sure, they've grown up a bit since the days of packing now-closed Coney Island High on St. Marks Place in Manhattan 20 years ago—as evident by their lyrics maturing from earlier party-themed anthems—but their new material gets the adrenaline pumping just as hard and fast as The Good, The Bad & The Argyle. Warming up the crowd are Leftöver Crack, Beach Slang and All Torn Up. [Read "Bouncing Souls Rock NYC's Highline Ballroom" HERE] The Emporium, 9 Railroad Ave., Patchogue. theemporiumny.com $20. 7 p.m. October 15.
Michele Lang
This author will speak about and sign her new book Jewish Noir, a special collection of all-new stories by award-winning authors. This anthology includes the work of Marge Piercy, Harlan Ellison, S. J. Rozan, Nancy Richler, Moe Prager (Reed Farrel Coleman), Wendy Hornsby, Charles Ardai and Kenneth Wishnia. The writers explore such issues as the Holocaust and its long-term effects on subsequent generations, anti-Semitism in the mid- and late-20th-century United States, and the dark side of the Diaspora. Book Revue. 313 New York Avenue, Huntington. bookrevue.com Price of book. 7 p.m. October 15.
Defining Southern alternative rock with nine energized albums, packed with potent songs like "Shine" and "Staring Down," the band jams on for their simple love of all things musical. Come sing "Yeah!" in unison. You know what we're talking about. Opening the show is King Washington. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $23-$155. 8 p.m. October 15.
The Native Alien Tribe and Intona
These Long Island bands team up to embody a vocally powerful and dance-provoking force absent in mainstream music that will blow listeners away. Will you shake it on the dance floor? You know you will. Bumpin' and grindin'? Will there be any of that? Most likely. Rejoicing as you move to the rhythm? Will there be much joy among the revelers!? Hells yeah! The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $10. 9:30 p.m. October 15.
Before the current Broadway SMASH that is Jersey Boys, there was the real Frankie Valli in all of his smooth falsetto glory, singing his way out of the projects of Newark and into the hearts of not only his generation, but also every one after and surely those to come. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons' timeless tunes, which topped the charts in the 1960s and '70s, are newly relevant today by way of Broadway, parents, grandparents, remakes of old songs, and the everlasting charm of Valli himself. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $59.50-$84.50. 8 p.m. October 16, 17; 7 p.m. October 18.
With more than 40 million records sold and 13 Top 40 hits, it's safe to say REO Speedwagon has made a lasting mark on not only the life soundtracks of countless fans, but rock and roll itself (and one or two members of the Press staff, one of whom couldn't resist singing aloud in the newsroom when she learned of this unbelievable gig). Since their formation in 1967 they've become synonymous with catchy rock epics, from their entire 1980 album Hi Infidelity, including mega-hits "Keep On Loving You" and "Take It On The Run" to "Time For Me To Fly" and "Roll With The Changes," both off 1978's You Can't Tune a Piano, But You Can Tuna Fish, among many other classics. Besides their timeless ear candy, they're also known for their insane live show. Head down to The 'Mountler and rock out! The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $29.50-$79.50. 8 p.m. October 16.
Spuyten Duyvil
Their brand of original and traditional American Roots music blends Olde Time, Blues, 2nd Line, Bluegrass, and Folk Rock with a pinch of Punk Rock energy to create a uniquely modern mix. Lead by songwriting couple Mark Miller and Beth Kaufman, this six-piece powerhouse brings barn-burning energy to venues throughout the Northeast and Midwest. Here's your chance to experience them locally! Our Times Coffeehouse, 38 Old Country Rd., Garden City. ourtimescoffeehouse.org $15. 8 p.m. October 16.
Freedom Summer
Sponsored by nonprofit Education From The Inside Out—dedicated to removing barriers to higher education for those in prison or formerly incarcerated—the screening of this documentary is part of the Long Island Voting Blackout campaign, and it will be followed by a workshop, where civic engagement, particularly a lack of voter turnout from communities of color, as well as the difference between election participation and civic engagement, and how to hold elected officials accountable even after they get your votes, will be discussed. Empire State College Old Westbury, 223 Store Hill Rd., Old Westbury. Free. 11 a.m. October 17.
Do you have old film reels lying around your closet, basement and attic? Now is the time to start digging them out for this chance to see them in their full glory, projected on original equipment! Home Movie Day is an annual celebration providing communities throughout the world the opportunity to watch their old home movies in a public setting. Just bring your films and they will project them! No films? No problem! This year they will also show your VHS tapes. Or, just come and watch these portals to the past and win prizes playing Home Movie Bingo! Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org Free. 11 a.m. October 17.
Motionless in White & The Devil Wears Prada
Leading a movement with hardcore heavy music that carries authentic emotion in every sorrowful note, these Gothic bands fuse into a supreme darkness that will take the stage by storm. Supporting acts include Upon A Burning Body and The Color Morale. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20-$40. 7 p.m. October 17.
This Canadian rock guitar demigod has gigged with a wide range of extraterrestrial players through the decades. Even Metallica's Kirk Hammett sings his praises. This is a rare chance to experience the six-string superstar and his melodic prowess all up close and personal in this extraordinary and intimate setting. Don't miss this gig! YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org $30-$35. 8 p.m. October 17.
Whether you find him absolutely can't-stop-laughing hilarious or occasionally somewhat annoying, Gottfried is a master of his comedic craft. He is bound to leave all those in attendance of this must-see gig feeling a sordid mixture of both. That's a good thing! It means they've been laughing so damn hard their gut will hurt for weeks after, which will leave them somewhat annoyed. That's what we meant in the opening line of this blurb. Get it? Oh well. His voice will be ringing in your ears for years. Governor's Comedy Club, 90 Division Ave., Levittown. govs.govs.com $25. 9 p.m. October 17.
Gold, Rubies and Pearls
The performance will include an exploration of the rich musical traditions of Broadway (and Off-Broadway) by showcasing the popular tunes of the last 50 years from those celebrating their anniversaries. The program will feature classic songs and arrangements from The Sound of Music, Show Boat, Chicago, Smokey Joe's Café, Nunsense and many more. This annual favorite is sure to provide enjoyment to audience members of all ages. Adelphi University's Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. aupac.adelphi.edu $20. 8 p.m. October 17, 4 p.m. October 18.
The "World's Largest" Rubber Duck will be attending the 32nd annual Oyster Festival in Oyster Bay's Theodore Roosevelt Park this weekend!
Oyster Festival
Billed as the largest annual outdoor festival and the biggest waterfront fest on the East Coast with about 200,000 attendees on average, the 32nd oyster fest is back! The lineup includes tall ships, pirate shows, live music, exotic animals, a bicycle stunt show, and carnival rides. Aside from oysters prepared every way imaginable, this shellfish extravaganza also features the famous oyster-shucking contest, and this year, a very special guest: the 11-ton, floating "World's Largest Rubber Duck," sponsored by Stew Leonard III Children's Charities. Down the hatch! Theodore Roosevelt Park, West End Ave., Oyster Bay. Free. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. theoysterfestival.org October 17, 18.
Oktoberfest Pub Crawl
A charitable, non-commercial, non-political, nonsensical fall celebration that happens once a year. Participants have 12 establishments to try. Proceeds go to charity! Downtown Riverhead suffolktheater.com $10. 12 p.m. October 18.
Murder, Madness, and Poe
Haunting tales and poems from Edgar Allen Poe's best-known works performed by Michael Bertolini as Poe, the 19th century master of the macabre. Written and directed by David Houston, along with musical interludes. Come…if you dare! [Read "Edgar Allan Poe Death Anniversary Resurrects Writer's Visions" HERE] Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, 1395 Planting Fields Rd., Oyster Bay. plantingfields.org $5, plus $8 parking fee. 2 p.m. October 18.
Egyptomania: The World's 3,000 Year-Old Obsession with the Land of the Pharaohs
In a rare appearance, world-renowned mummy expert, Egyptologist and author Bob Brier, will be speaking about his latest book. Also known as "Mr. Mummy," Bob Brier has appeared as the host of numerous educational programs for television including TLC's The Mummy Detective, The Great Egyptians and Mummies and Tombs. Dr. Brier has studied some of the world's most famous mummies including King Tut, Vladimir Lenin, Ramses the Great, Eva Person (Evita) and many more. Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue. patchoguetheatre.org $10. 3 p.m. October 18.
Blessed with her mesmerizing dramatic soprano pipes and touting more than 14 million records sold worldwide, this gifted Canadian songstress, harpist, composer, accordionist and pianist will transform The 'Mountler into a Celtic, Middle Eastern paradise of song and dance bound to not only chase those pre-winter blues away, but compel all in attendance to hop out of their seats, twirl around in the air, and shout a collective, "Yes! Yes! Ye ole yesss!" The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $35-$65. 8 p.m. October 18.
You've Got A Friend: The Music of the Brill Building
The Brill Building was once home to the great songwriters of Tin Pan Ally; you know their names but we'll tell you again: Carole King, Neil Sedaka, Lieber & Stoller, Neil Diamond, and Barry Mann & Cynthia Weill, among many others. "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do," "Where the Boys Are," "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" and "On Broadway" all came from the famed music factory. Multi-award winning vocalist Scott Coulter joins with award-winning singer/songwriter Michael Holland to take you on an extraordinary journey into the music, and the stories, of the singers and the songs that defined American pop. Wow. John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport. engemantheater.com $25-$45. 2, 7 p.m. October 20.
The hilarious actor, comedian, writer and producer from Philly is just that–knee-slappin', gut-shakin', damn-man-that-dude-was-mad-mad-mad-funny hilarious. Be prepared to laugh, a lot. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $99.50-$124.50. 7 p.m., 10 p.m. October 19.
Dubbed "the saddest girl in Sweden" by some media outlets and "Sweden's darkest pop export" by Rolling Stone due to her raw, emotional, self-destructive, autobiographical lyrics and whirlwind dance-trance-rock-pop sound, the 27-year-old songstress staked her claim when her 2014 debut Queen Of The Clouds opened at Number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, and she's been flying, well, "high" ever since. Will she dedicate a special song during her Huntington set to Press music critic Zack Tirana, possibly even meet him across the way for a fresh, mouth-watering slice of cold cheese pizza at perennial Bethpage Federal Credit Union Best of L.I. award-winner Little Vincent's (voting's open now, btw!), followed by a brew (or two) at her choice of local pubs? No, not a chance. No way in hell, to be more precise. Never, most unfortunately. Maybe. With special guest Erik Hassle. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $25-$45. 8 p.m. October 20.
Zombie Club Crawl
Get your freak on as a member of the undead and celebrate the afterlife and your undying love of fresh brains in this First Annual gathering of all that is decomposing and bloodthirsty. Wear your own horrific threads or get your noggin all done up ghoulishly by a professional, either way this will be one night to remember! Along with all the brain-eating will be music, drink specials and untold horrors way too frightening to specify here! Truly scary stuff! [Read All About The Walking Dead Season Six Premiere HERE] 89 North Music Venue, 89 North Ocean Ave., Patchogue. 89northmusic.com Free, though $50 gets zombies a whole lot more (check out additional details HERE). 6:30 p.m. October 21.
Nick, Howard, Howie, Heidi and Mel B won't be there, but all the megastars of the past near-decade will, including Season 8 runner-up comedian Taylor Williamson. All-Stars Tour! #AGT we luv you! NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $49.50. 8 p.m. October 21.
—Compiled by Nick Semelak, Chuck Cannini, Timothy Bolger and Zachary B. Tirana III
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