Cowboy Junkies
This alt-country/blues/folk rock band formed in 1985 in Toronto and gained popularity with their second album, The Trinity Session, which the Los Angeles Times named one of the best albums of ’88. Their version of The Velvet Underground’s “Sweet Jane,” which appears on the Natural Born Killers soundtrack, was described by Lou Reed as his favorite cover of the song. The Stephen Talkhouse, 161 Main St., Amagansett. stephentalkhouse.com $85-$100. 8 p.m. July 14.
Lettuce
Lettuce has been performing classic funk for more than two decades. Their unique blend of hip-hop, psychedelia and funk makes Lettuce stand out in their genre as an ongoing experiment. Lettuce describes their latest album, 2015’s Crush, as being very open in terms of style, while staying true to its funk roots. Besides the innate ability to inspire large groups of listeners to uncontrollably get up off their tuckuses and groove, the band’s infectious, delirious, and utterly mind-blowing intoxicating tunes pays homage to classic rock artists, ’90s hip-hop, and of course, classic funk. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20-$25. 8 p.m. July 14. (Postponed from July 8)
Jim Messina
A man of many talents, Jim Messina is a musician, songwriter, singer, guitarist, recording engineer and record producer who’s been a member of the folk rock group Buffalo Springfield, country rock band Poco, and half of the soft rock duo Loggins and Messina (which sold over 20 million albums domestically), with Kenny Loggins. Like a musical geyser that just can not stop gushing, Messina continues to drop compilations of his guitar work and previous hits and rock, rock, rock his greatest hits. YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org $65-$70. 8 p.m. July 14.
The Slim Kings and Steve Urban
This 4-year-old Brooklyn-born band blends a soulful mix of old blues and classic rock. Consisting of veteran musicians who have recorded alongside Billy Joel and composed songs and soundtracks for popular shows such as Law and Order and Sons of Anarchy, these rockers are forever expanding from their supportive New York base to musical nirvana and beyond. They’ll be performing with multi-instrumentalist Steve Urban. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $10 8 p.m. July 14.
Great South Bay Music Festival
This waterfront music festival is back with an irresistible lineup including Third Eye Blind, Graham Nash, Manchester Orchestra, Umphreys McGee, Kevin Devine, Joe Nichols and Dopapod, plus many more. It would be a mistake to miss out on the largest-running music, art and cultural event on Long Island. What’s better than an amazing view of the water, live music and great food? Uh, Greek food? Sorry. Nothing, of course. And there’s a kidzone for the children. Shorefront Park, Patchogue. greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com $32-$125. July 14-17.
Long Island International Film Expo
For all movie lovers, the Long Island International Film Expo is a must-attend event, known for featuring films from countries all around the world, attracting a celebrity presence, and showcasing everything from documentaries to short movies to movie trailers. And the subjects covered are even more diverse. These films will make you laugh one minute, cry the next, and scream your lungs out in sheer, unrefined excitement a little later. Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore. longislandfilmexpo.com $8-$110. Runs through July 21.
Gaelic Storm
The Celtic band that has been around for nearly two decades is resurfacing after their latest, 2015’s Matching Sweaters. As the album is testament, Gaelic Storm cleverly combines traditional Irish music with modern influences by performing both traditional Scottish melodies and original songs in Celtic rock. Its five members have topped the Billboard World Chart fives times throughout their career. The group has played at music festivals such as Summerfest and Telluride, and regularly headlines Irish festivals around the world. A perfect set list of drinking songs, rapid instrumentals, and sing-along songs is something you don’t want to miss! The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $20-$40. 8 p.m. July 15.
Patent Pending
Hometown pop-punk heroes are making the long drive from their native Mt. Sinai to Amityville for their latest show to remind all the emo kids to cheer up. For proof that this band has a heart, check out this feature on the band in the Press. With opening acts Craving Strange, Silver Silver and Fawkes. Revolution Bar and Music Hall, 140 Merrick Rd., Amityville. revolutionli.com $15. 6:30 p.m. July 16.
Nine Days
Nine Days, the Long Island-based band best known for their late ’90s pop hit “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” is back and better than ever, ending a 10-year hiatus. In advance of their July 16 album release show, the Press spoke with the band’s lead singer, John Hampson, and lead guitarist, Brian Desveaux, to discuss their upcoming album, Snapshots, as well as working with legendary music producer Jim Scott and their relentless commitment to making music. Wow. A must-read, to be sure. YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org $15-$20. 8 p.m. July 16.
Blackstreet
A top R&B vocal group of the ’90s, Blackstreet continues to ride the fame of previous hit singles “Before I Let You Go,” “Booti Call,” “No Diggity,” “Don’t Leave Me” and “Take Me There.” Though their roster has rotated, with several members leaving to pursue successful solo careers after earning fame through the band, the group has partnered with big names like Jay-Z and Dr. Dre, and earned a Grammy Award after several albums went platinum. Opening the show is Jagged Edge and Shai. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $49.50-$99.50. 8 p.m. July 16.
Johnny Mac’s Blues Band
Based on Long Island, The Johnny Mac Band plays blues, R&B, funk and reggae. In other words, all the best stuff to get you up in front of the stage and shake, shake, shakin’! Known for their high-energy jams and in-the-moment improvisation, these jazz masters (See what we did there?) make every gig an unforgettable, soul-soothing experience! Treme Blues and Jazz Club, 553 Main St., Islip. tremeislip.com $10. 8 p.m. July 16.
The Lost Works (And World) Of Don Murray
Always more than a movie star, Don Murray demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social service on and off screen—and played roles that other actors weren’t willing to risk. By doing so, he forfeited a superstardom that was his for the taking in order to be true to his beliefs. Learn about his career in an exclusive documentary preview screening and one of the very first opportunities to see a compelling 1972 lost feature film. Don will be in person to discuss both films, along with documentarian Don Malcolm, son Chris Murray, and film historians Foster Hirsch and Jud Newborn. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org $10 members, $15 public. 10 a.m. July 17.
Florida Georgia Line / Cole Swindell / The Cadillac Three & Kane Brown
Get out those 10-gallon cowboy hats, strap on those designer leather sham-shackle boots and let’s giddy-up a doozy, cause this country night, and you’re a country gal! The brothers who make up Florida Georgia Line, Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard, will perform their tasteful hit single, “Cruise,” which sold 10 million copies, making FGL the first-ever country band to receive RIAA’s Diamond certification. Cole Swindell, who has written singles for country boys such as Scott McCreery and Luke Bryan, in addition to releasing two albums, joins FGL this summer, too! Kane Brown, who joins The Cadillac Three on this tour, is an up-and-coming country star, whose first EP was only released a year ago. Wow now this night thar har gonna rock! Nikon at Jones Beach, Ocean Parkway, Wantagh. jonesbeach.com $32-$76.75. 7 p.m. July 17.
Gilbert Gottfried
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. McGuires Comedy Club, 1627 Smithtown Ave., Bohemia. mcguires.govs.com $25. 7, 9:30 p.m. July 16.
Micky Dolenz of The Monkees
George Michael “Micky” Dolenz, perhaps the most well-known member of The Monkees, is forever ingrained in America’s collective hearts and minds as that whirlwind heartthrob drummer, singer, actor, and all-around great guy who couldn’t help but make us all smile. In addition to their popular television show of the same name, The Monkees sold more than 65 million records worldwide and had three No. One singles: “Last Train to Clarksville,” “Daydream Believer” and “I’m a Believer.” This engaging, spirited 70-year-old musician is also credited with directing numerous theatrical and television shows. Back in the ’60s, Dolenz rocked the stage–and he’s still got it, as he’s joined by new members to play all the hits from those crazy, hilarious, insanely talented hellraisers, The Monkees. Suffolk Theater, 118 E Main St., Riverhead. suffolktheater.com $60. 7:30 p.m. July 17.
Dianne Reeves
Dianne Reeves is a five-time Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist whose latest album, Beautiful Life, earned that prestigious honor for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach. whbpac.org $65-$95. 8 p.m. July 17.
Eric Stonestreet
Hey, Modern Family fans, Cameron Tucker is coming to Long Island! Well, the actor, Eric Stonestreet, who plays the flamboyant character, is. The two-time Emmy Award-winning talent has graced our television and movie screens with a variety of personas. Growing up in Kansas City, acting wasn’t his top career choice. But, after being dared in college to audition for the play Prelude to a Kiss, and landing a small role, Stonestreet was hooked. Since then, he has built up an impressive resume, starring in popular television series, such as Malcolm in the Middle, American Horror Story: Murder House, and Nip/Tuck. Most recently, he voiced “Duke” in the new animated film The Secret Life of Pets. Now, he is on an interactive comedy tour, where audience members will hear behind-the-scenes stories, life experiences, and have the opportunity to ask Stonestreet questions about literally, anything. Something tells me this is gonna be really, really, really funny. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $29.50- $74.50. 8 p.m. July 17.
Chuck Mosley
Fans have missed former Faith No More frontman Chuck Mosley, but after a few years of silence, the alternative funk-metal legend has returned. Mosley will be bringing his unforgettable voice and stage persona to Long Island during his “Reintroduce Yourself” acoustic tour. These unplugged sessions will include music and favorites from his past bands. Mosley was the Faith No More singer in 1985 for two of the group’s albums, We Care A Lot and Introduce Yourself. After leaving the band, Mosley formed Cement and released two albums: Cement and Man With the Action Hair. In 2009, he dropped the EP Will Rap Over Hard Rock for Food. Now, he is reissuing the album We Care A Lot with new tracks. This is a must-not-miss gig. Like, “Epic.” Looney Tunes, 31 Brookvale Ave., West Babylon. ltcds.com $11.99-$39.99. 7 p.m. July 18.
Lost Emulsion
Glenn Andreiev’s new documentary revealing how and why so many silent and early sound films are missing includes rare film clips and images to illustrate the plight of lost cinema, along with lively interviews with noted film historians (including Cinema regulars Bill Shelley, Ben Model and Philip Harwood). Director Glenn Andreiev will be on hand to lead the audience in a lively discussion after the film. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org $10 members, $15 public. 7:30 p.m. July 18.
Harry Chapin Tribute
What better venue to host a concert celebrating the music of the late, great folk singer, than the one that bears his name? There is none. Besides his hit single “Cats in the Cradle,” the Long Island native’s fan favorites include “Taxi,” Sniper” and “Flowers Are Red.” Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. nassaucountyny.gov/parks Free. 8 p.m. July 18.
Pinkalicious
The whimsical story by Victoria and Elizabeth Kann about an exuberant little girl who adores everything pink comes to Long Island as a musical that is sure to delight her devoted following. The audience is sure to be dressed as fuchsia as the set. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $19.50. 11 a.m. July 19.
Patrick Colabella
This professor and author will be speaking and signing copies of his new book How to Get Rid of Socialism. Was going to add a political joke here and just decided to move on to the Yellow Ape Film Festival, instead. Book Revue, 313 New York Ave., Huntington. bookrevue.com Free with purchase of book. 7 p.m. July 19.
Yellow Ape Film Festival
Yellow Ape is not your typical film festival. It showcases local filmmakers’ movies intended for the midnight-hour audience. You can see anything from a silly zany comedy to a bizarre and disturbing horror flick. Not only are films shown, there are musical acts, stand-up comics, a celebrity panel, and sexy burlesque dancers that make it more of an event than just a film festival. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org $25. 7 p.m. July 20.
Priscilla, Queen of The Desert
Get ready to “Shake Your Groove Thing,” and hop aboard the party bus Priscilla in our laugh-out-loud comedy musical smash hit, fresh off Broadway. This splashy, Tony-nominated musical is based on the 1994 film of the same name that tells the story of three colorful “divas” that drive their lavender bus, appropriately named Priscilla, across the desert and meet an array of fantastic characters, all while pushing the norms of society. Set to a score of well-known pop, funk, gospel, and disco songs such as “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “Hot Stuff,” this is one adventure you won’t want to miss! Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 East Main St., Patchogue. patchoguetheatre.org $59-$89. July 20-Aug. 6.
–Compiled by Kate Nalepinki, Leo Capobianco, Ana Borruto, Ellie Schoeffel and Timothy Bolger.
[Featured image: Florida Georgia Line via Facebook]
