Caffe Lena Momentum Series

04/04/2026

Caffe Lena is thrilled to present Ellen Pieroni an exciting jazz saxophone player and multi-instrumentalist from Buffalo.

Pieroni’s smooth-infused soul jazz band Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul, or EoS, was featured on NPR’s All Things Considered as one of three “jazz stand outs” for the 2024 Tiny Desk Contest, where Felix Contreras said that “soul jazz is alive and well with…Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul.” Although the group is inspired by artists such as Grover Washington Jr., King Curtis, and the Crusaders, EoS puts an emphasis on new original music. The sound is driven by Pieroni’s captivating and soulful melodies, supported by thoughtful improvisation from all members over deep pocket grooves.

“When [Ellen] takes her solo, it really warms my heart because I hear the same soulfulness of Cannonball, or any of the sax players who played with Ray Charles back in the 50s, or the more contemporary alto saxophonist David Sanborn.”

– Felix Contreras, NPR’s All Things Considered

The band features Adam Bronstein(guitar), Isaiah Gethers (drums), Jacob Nicholson (keys), and Dominic Missana(bass).

🎵 SONG CLIP

https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkxen434pO5qVYQ9vncabTJkpajD-SOzwb3?si=f14ZrIJlOlkBzPej

🎟️ TICKET LINK 🎟️

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-ellen-pieroni-the-encyclopedia-of-soul-tickets-1980832774150

The Momentum Series puts a spotlight on our most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet stomping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and the manner in which it moves you when you hear a performance from the caliber of artist this series features! This genre unrestricted series is guaranteed to please and is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in memory of Thom O’Neil.

Soul jazz saxophonist Ellen Pieroni leads a groove-rich band hailed by NPR—originals, deep pocket rhythms, and warm, soulful melodies.

03/17/2026

Caffè Lena is thrilled to welcome Louisiana-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Joy Clark this Friday, March 19, 2026 @ 8pm, a rising force in Americana and folk whose debut album Tell it to the Windmarks her arrival as a bold new voice. Raised just outside New Orleans in a tight-knit, deeply religious family, Joy first learned guitar and harmony in her parents’ church.

Her sound blends the social consciousness of folk, the grooves of Southeast Louisiana, and the soul-rooted music she grew up with. Joy honed her craft in New Orleans, toured with Grammy-winner Cyril Neville, and later joined Allison Russell’s acclaimed Rainbow Coalition, performing alongside Brandi Carlile, the Indigo Girls, and more. Russell calls her “a brilliant artist, writer, and singer.”

On Tell it to the Wind, produced with four-time Grammy nominee Margaret Becker, Joy delivers songs of liberation, love, and belonging. It is a stirring, triumphant debut from an artist fully stepping into her power.

🎵 SONG CLIP

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PtzHKB_yaCA

🎟️ TICKET LINK 🎟️

https://www.caffelena.org/event/joy-clark-with-opener-buggy-jive/

Opening the night is Upstate NY soul-rock songwriter Buggy Jive, whose music blends Zeppelin grit, D’Angelo groove, and Joni Mitchell storytelling. A past NPR Tiny Desk “Top Shelf” pick and multiple Eddie Award winner, Buggy Jive brings razor-sharp lyricism, rich humor, and a sound steeped in literature, soul, and rock.

Expect extraordinary guitar work, heartfelt storytelling, and songs rooted in identity, liberation, and joy. A night of two visionary artists who leave everything on the stage.

The Momentum Series puts a spotlight on our most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet stomping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and the manner in which it moves you when you hear a performance from the caliber of artist this series features! This genre unrestricted series is guaranteed to please and is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in memory of Thom O’Neil.

Joy Clark’s Louisiana folk-soul and Buggy Jive’s sharp, soulful rock collide for a night of powerful songs and unforgettable storytelling.

01/01/2026

Join us on Sunday, January 4 at 7 PM at Caffe Lena as the incomparable Gina Coleman—a vocalist with fire, grit, and deep emotional range—leads Misty Blues and delivers original music inspired by Koko Taylor, Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, and the great American blues tradition.

Gina’s story is as compelling as her voice: from a dare to sing in 1990 to performing at the Williamstown Theatre Festival, NYC’s Bitter End, and recording with Charles Neville and Joe Louis Walker, she brings decades of artistry, heart, and authenticity to the stage.

🎵 SONG CLIP 1 Minute

https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkxnqhdqd1QCHhFgzaqxfrphXS-VqZGypb1?si=TaxZ2Rm7z6Yamk3I

Misty Blues is fueled by an all-star lineup of multi-instrumentalists and musical shapeshifters. With top-tier musicians, the Misty Blues sound is always tight, soulful, and absolutely electric.

The band has earned two Independent Blues Award nominations, opened for giants like Tab Benoit, John Primer, Albert Cummings, and Michael Powers, and continues to push the genre forward with fresh writing, fearless energy, and their signature blend of blues, gospel, jazz, and funk.

🎟️ TICKET LINK 🎟️

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-misty-blues-tickets-1970795844423?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=77be3306a29c998f56d6d77f84633392e05a7b4d1c4a9d90a00bf8a92471c15bfdd1e1c6e5dc77623de6a15dd4c059b358c9e650e0fae50ef6bde7d1ea44ad38916a390d4c0ef754a7ef4a02

If you love blues that hits hard, vocals that shake the rafters, and a band that plays with heart and heat—don’t miss Misty Blues at Caffè Lena.

The Momentum Series puts a spotlight on our most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet stomping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and the manner in which it moves you when you hear a performance from the caliber of artist this series features! This genre unrestricted series is guaranteed to please and is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in memory of Thom O’Neil.

High-energy, soul-shaking blues from Misty Blues, led by powerhouse vocalist Gina Coleman. Fierce musicianship,& big grooves!

06/13/2025

UPDATE: Friday show SOLD OUT! Saturday just a few tickets left, don't miss out!!!

Join us on Friday & Saturday June 13 & 14 at 8:00pm at Caffe Lena for a evening of genre-blending sound mixing Americana roots, soulful harmonies, and high energy rhythms into a dynamic and heartfelt live show.

Driftwood has been described variously as "fusing traditional Americana and with contemporary influences and timeless subject matter". Known for their roots in folk, bluegrass, and rock, the band’s live shows are a celebration—dynamic, intimate, and brimming with joy. The band has released five studio albums and two live albums.

Expect soaring harmonies, electrifying instrumentals, and stories that resonate deeply with every listener. Whether they’re delivering hard-driving rhythms with blazing energy or stripping it all back for a raw, emotional ballad, Driftwood's live show feels like a shared experience—something honest and unrepeatable.
Their latest album, December Last Call, marks a creative homecoming for the band, blending powerful new sounds with the live energy they’re so beloved for. From foot-stomping anthems to hushed, poignant moments, Driftwood creates a show that feels personal and communal—a place where everyone belongs.

Sample songs:

https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxZ0hApbp1GlwAOoigxShGLX_rVn27ueGw?si=gdL5b_9gER-FhTjJ

https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkx8ErznIu0Nx9UVChkaED66dEaF1Am-xb1?si=AeXgkfnfGXX05m7r

Saturday Tickets: https://www.caffelena.org/event/driftwood-2

The Momentum Series puts a spotlight on our most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet stomping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and the manner in which it moves you when you hear a performance from the caliber of artist this series features! This genre unrestricted series is guaranteed to please and is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in memory of Thom O’Neil.

Upstate NY folk-rock band that blends Americana roots, PLEASE SEE BELOW

06/10/2025

Join us on Friday & Saturday June 13 & 14 at 8:00pm at Caffe Lena for a evening of genre-blending sound mixing Americana roots, soulful, harmonies, and high energy rhythms into a dynamic and heartfelt live show.

Driftwood has been described variously as "fusing traditional Americana and with contemporary influences and timeless subject matter". Known for their roots in folk, bluegrass, and rock, the band’s live shows are a celebration—dynamic, intimate, and brimming with joy. The band has released five studio albums and two live albums.

Expect soaring harmonies, electrifying instrumentals, and stories that resonate deeply with every listener. Whether they’re delivering hard-driving rhythms with blazing energy or stripping it all back for a raw, emotional ballad, Driftwood's live show feels like a shared experience—something honest and unrepeatable.

Their latest album, December Last Call, marks a creative homecoming for the band, blending powerful new sounds with the live energy they’re so beloved for. From foot-stomping anthems to hushed, poignant moments, Driftwood creates a show that feels personal and communal—a place where everyone belongs.

Sample songs:

https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkx6Cvn3JT5FMi27RwW_sV2_-TSOi51uhf6?si=ibSU_NqmlcBo0LW8

https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxNhXDGma9Q-NELtIUhye5a34nvlUyDTaG?si=QBF7xYpbBoRsnIEd

Friday Tickets: https://www.caffelena.org/event/driftwood/

Saturday Tickets: https://www.caffelena.org/event/driftwood-2

The Momentum Series puts a spotlight on our most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet stomping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and the manner in which it moves you when you hear a performance from the caliber of artist this series features! This genre unrestricted series is guaranteed to please and is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in memory of Thom O’Neil.

05/02/2025

SCHEDULE UPDATE!

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Friday May 2 show with Joe Louis Walker has been cancelled. We’re working on rescheduling and will share details once confirmed.

Ticket holders will receive a full refund automatically—no action needed. Thanks for your understanding, and we look forward to welcoming Joe to Lena at a future date.

04/11/2025

Hailed by DownBeat Magazine as “in a class by themselves,” this boisterous, super-tight big band has remained one of the most joyful blues ensembles in the world for more than five decades.

Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger.
Led by guitarist Chris Vachon and featuring saxophonist Rich Lataille (a member since 1970), their current lineup includes powerhouse vocalist D.D. Bastos, who brings fresh, soulful energy to their timeless sound, Jeff Ceasrine on keyboards, Alek Razdan on baritone and tenor sax, Carl "Geerz" Gerhard on trumpet, John Turner on bass and Mike Coffey on drums.

With five GRAMMY nominations, seven Blues Music Awards, thousands of shows worldwide, and collaborations with legends like B.B. King and Eric Clapton to their critically acclaimed albums on Alligator Records, this “best little big band in the blues” (Blues Music Magazine) guarantees a night of foot-stomping, hand-clapping fun.

Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to get our listening room fans swaying in their seats. Roomful keeps on rockin’!

SAMPLE SONG: https://youtu.be/CiTfbWcMTj8

TICKETS: https://www.caffelena.org/event/momentum-series-roomful-of-blues/

Made possible by the generous support of Joe & Luann Conlon, in honor of Thom O'Neil.

03/09/2025

Ladysmith Black Mambazo – The Legendary Voices of South Africa at Caffè Lena!

For over five decades, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been the musical heartbeat of South Africa, spreading messages of peace, unity, and hope through their signature isicathamiya harmonies.

Founded in the 1960s by Joseph Shabalala, the group’s name honors their hometown (Ladysmith), strength (Black, like the oxen), and precision (Mambazo, meaning chopping axe). Their harmonies were so flawless, they were banned from competitions—instead invited only to perform as entertainers!

Global Breakthrough:
Their breathtaking vocals caught the attention of Paul Simon who featured them on his landmark album Graceland (1986), introducing their rich South African sound to the world.

Since then, they’ve:
* Won 3 Grammys & earned 15 nominations
* Starred on Broadway & in film soundtracks like The Lion King II & Mean Girls
* Collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton , Josh Groban & more
* Performed for Nelson Mandela , the Queen of England & the Pope

Now, this legendary ensemble brings their soaring harmonies to Caffè Lena for an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime performance.

📅 Saturday, March 22 at 4 and 8 PM
🎟 Tickets are on our website & are selling fast—reserve your seats now!

12/28/2024

The Caffe Lena Momentum Series closes out 2024 with a big bang on December 28th presenting - New American Cuisine - Saratoga's own indie rock band brings us their high-energy fun and latest work along with crowd favorites!

Ben Crandall (guitar/vocals), Bryce North (guitar/vocals), Jordon Gyarmathy (bass), and Henry McCabe (drums) were high school classmates right here in Saratoga Springs not so long ago. A high school pep rally gave them their first taste of performing as New American Cuisine, and the positive response made them decide to get serious about the band. Inspired by The Beatles and John Mayer to Dispatch and the Lumineers, they established a lush, indie pop sound. Filled with hooks and driven by melody, they spice up their songs with catchy vocal harmonies and decisive percussion and bass. NAC’s first single, “Lily of the Aztecs,” and 2022’s “Talking” got traction after spins on EQXposure. The band has continued to work hard, get incredibly good, and create strong new songs. Their tickets sell fast, so don't delay!

Sample a live song by clicking below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqT2brpEr-o

For tickets:

4:00pm - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-new-american-cuisine-tickets-980730791197?aff=erelexpmlt

7:00pm – *** SOLD OUT*** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-new-american-cuisine-tickets-980734763077

Missed Out? You can stream this show live on Caffè Lena TV. Enjoy one week of access with your live-stream ticket.

The Momentum Concert Series spotlights Caffe Lena's most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet tapping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and how it moves you when you hear a live performance from the caliber of an artist you’ll enjoy! This genre-unrestricted series features best-in-class performers and is guaranteed to please.
best-in-class
The Momentum Series is made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon in honor of Thom O'Neil.

11/17/2024

Jazzmeia Horn is an extraordinary jazz vocalist with a powerful range having been compared to such greats as Betty Carter, Sarah Vaughan, and Nancy Wilson!

She has performed at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall and on November 24th visits the cozy and acoustically splendid Caffe Lena for the first time for two performances at 4pm & 7pm!

Click below to hear her opening song at her Jazz at Lincoln Center performance scatting Betty Carter’s Please Do Something.

https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxGP0jm07KRVOmOJI-QT45Z4Py8lDe8-dl?si=UpIJCRwa3vbPzAwV

Don’t miss out!

For tickets:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-jazzmeia-horn-tickets-886902708877?aff=odcleoeventsincollection

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/momentum-series-jazzmeia-horn-tickets-886906941537?aff=odcleoeventsincollection

Launched in January 2024, the Momentum Concert Series puts a spotlight on Caffe Lena’s most compelling artists focusing on music that stirs your soul and gets your feet tapping and body moving! The type of energy you feel and how it moves you when you hear a live performance from the caliber of an artist you’ll be enjoying! This genre-unrestricted series features best in class performers and is guaranteed to please!

60 seconds · Clipped by Joseph Conlon · Original video "Jazzmeia Horn: Live from Jazz at Lincoln Center | JAZZ NIGHT IN AMERICA" by Jazz Night in America