The Linda to Host Holiday Cabaret, Featuring E.R.I.E., Justin Friello, and Angelina Valente, Dec. 16

ALBANY – Celebrate the holidays at The Linda on Dec. 16 as attendees raise their glasses together at the Live at the Linda Holiday Cabaret Show, recorded live for WAMC’s “Live at the Linda” Holiday Special. Featured artists for this free, family-friendly event are: E.R.I.E., Justin Friello, Angelina Valente, and more!

E.R.I.E. came on to the Albany scene in 2020, the week a global pandemic began to rear its ugly head. What began as a passion project developed while singer/songwriter TJ Foster was unexpectedly laid up in a hospital bed for three days, has turned into a fully-formed quartet, winning over audiences with their catchy songs and energetic live performances.

Their debut album, Don’t Wanna Live, Don’t Wanna Die (on Mint 400 Records), takes listeners on a journey through existentialism, mortality, and the universal challenge of trying to make the most of our time here. The band – guitarist Matt Delgado, drummer Chad Flewwelling and bassist Levi Jennes alongside Foster – is currently writing and recording the follow-up at home in Upstate New York.

Justin Friello is no stranger to the spotlight. Since 2005, he’s been performing professionally as a solo artist and as the lead in various bands around Nippertown and beyond. Live performance has always been his focus, though his collection of studio releases includes numerous EPs, LPs, singles, and even 10 holiday albums.

He’s played major upstate venues and festivals like Proctors Theatre, The Linda, Tulip Fest, WMHT, and Summernight. He’s opened for bands like Gin Blossoms, Village People, and Girl Talk. In 2016, Justin released his hybrid EP/Short Film, Jack & Jill, to a packed house, backed by a 8-piece ensemble. His most recent release is a live EP, recorded at the famous Caffè Lena. Listen on all streaming services.

Justin’s songwriting is “punchy, driving, rhythmically intricate and layered”, full of “honest language”, and “overflowing with diverse creative ideas”. Throughout his career, what has never changed is a commitment to expertly crafted, emotionally intense lyrics and intricate guitar playing.

Angelina Valente grew up in Galway, NY where she developed a love for performing at a very young age. She attended Rider University where she graduated with a BFA in Musical Theatre. It was there that she developed a love for writing music.

​Angelina’s soft piano and strong voice, complete with her honest lyrics make you want to curl up with a warm cup of tea. Her bedroom folk qualities give you that feeling of putting on your favorite album, closing your eyes, and falling deeply into the moment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This free, family-friendly event will begin at 8:00 pm. To get your ticket, please visit thelinda.org.