Assembly is proud to present the inaugural KINGSTON CALLING: BATTLE OF THE BANDS, a showcase and competition featuring the best bands in the region!

One band will be crowned champion at our live event on Friday, August 28th at Assembly in Kingston, NY, with a KILLER prize package including:

Tickets + Info →

BAND ENTRY IS NOW CLOSED!

7 BANDS COMPETING FOR THE CROWN!

The following 7 bands were selected by our judges from over 30 entries! These bands will all perform at the live event on Fri 8/28!

OUR PANEL OF ESTEEMED JUDGES

GAIL ANN DORSEY

A truly singular musical force, Gail Ann Dorsey has built her life in devotion to music and its potential for transcendence. Over the course of her extraordinary career, the Philadelphia-born singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist has emerged as one of the most renowned bass guitarists in recent history, widely celebrated for her collaborations with many of the brightest luminaries in rock and pop. Along with playing bass and singing in David Bowie’s touring band for more than a decade (and contributing to several of his studio albums), she’s worked with a highly eclectic mix of superstars and culture-shaping innovators, including Seal, Lenny Kravitz, Gwen Stefani, Bryan Ferry, Gang Of Four, Indigo Girls, Jane Siberry, and The National, to name just a few. Her first solo body of work in 21 years, Dorsey’s forthcoming album marks the long-awaited culmination of a lifetime of musical voyaging—ultimately revealing the full power of her profoundly unique and visionary artistry.

GRASSHOPPER (of Mercury Rev)

Grasshopper is an American guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and founding member of acclaimed alternative rock band Mercury Rev. Since the band’s formation in 1989, he has helped shape its distinctive sound through inventive guitar work, experimental instrumentation, and cinematic arrangements. Influenced by jazz, avant-garde art, and a wide range of musical traditions, Grasshopper has been central to Mercury Rev’s evolution from underground pioneers to internationally celebrated artists. His contributions to landmark albums including Deserter’s Songs showcase his unique approach to sound, creativity, and exploration, making him a defining voice in experimental rock.

MICHAEL GLABICKI (of Rusted Root)

Michael Glabicki, lead singer, songwriter and guitarist for Rusted Root fuses musical mastery and shamanic inspiration into his music and live performances. In his most prolific period to date Glabicki is focusing his energy on his new band, The UPROOTED Band, to carry on the legacy of Rusted Root’s energetic music while recording new music for their debut album due out next Spring.  A multifaceted musician, producer and songwriter, Glabicki’s talents are unique and extremely uplifting. His new projects and music are extensions of his creative talent, and will inspire all those who participate.  

PETE CAIGAN

Pete Caigan is a sound engineer, drummer, record producer, artist, and audio design consultant who lives in the Hudson Valley in Upstate NY. He recorded Sarah McLachlan’s “Afterglow” (double platinum) and Billboard #1 Reggae album “Livin Free” by Roots of Creation. He and Jeremy Backofen mixed Simone Felice’s self titled solo album. Pete has produced records for Tyburn Saints, Kari Spieler, The Jukebox Romantics, and Bari Koral. Caigan played drums on records by Jason Downs, Kari Spieler, Arms, Sean Lathrop, and Ben Vita. He has toured drumming with Arms, Bari Koral, and The Visitors and mixed front of house on the road for Marco Benevento, Rachael Yamagata, and Amy Helm. Pete has designed recording studios and venue sound systems for top facilities in the Hudson Valley. His 25-year-long career in the music business is a story of insatiable curiosity, creative drive, and good luck.

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