In this special edition of The Pulse of Ithaca, we're coming to you from the GrassRoots Festival headquarters in Trumansburg, NY — and we’re joined by none other than Jeb Puryear, co-founder of Donna the Buffalo and the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival.

Jeb takes us deep into the story behind the 33rd annual GrassRoots Festival, shares the early days of Donna the Buffalo, and reflects on how this beloved gathering continues to bring people together through music, dance, and shared purpose.

We also cover upcoming Ithaca events, including a preview of the 7th Annual Ithaca Reggae Fest. Whether you're a longtime local or just discovering what makes this community special, this episode is packed with inspiration, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments you won’t want to miss.

🎶 GrassRoots Festival: July 17–20, 2025 – grassrootsfest.org 🎟️ Donna the Buffalo tour info: donnathebuffalo.com 📍 Ithaca Reggae Fest: July 20–22, 2025 – Stewart Park www.ithacareggaefest.com

In this special episode, Pete and Mikey Swerves visit the heart of the Finger Lakes music scene to sit down with Tara Nevins, founding member of Donna the Buffalo. Tara shares the story behind the band, the launch of the GrassRoots Festival, and how Culture Camp grew into a four-day gathering of music, dance, food, and togetherness.

We also cover highlights from the 2025 Great Blue Heron Music Festival and the Downtown Ithaca Thursday Night Concert Series.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, this episode captures the spirit of community that defines Ithaca's music culture.

🔗 Culture Camp Info and Tickets: grassrootsfest.org 🎶 Donna the Buffalo Tour Dates: donnathebuffalo.com

This week on The Pulse of Ithaca, Pete and Mikey Swerves bring you a full rundown of the local music scene. From DJ Gourd spinning vinyl at Bike Bar to Dirty Blanket’s bluegrass energy and the psychedelic reggae of Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, there's no shortage of sound in the Finger Lakes right now.

We also talk about the upcoming acoustic set from Jimkata’s Evan Friedell and Cooper Casterline, who’s dropping new solo work that’s worth a listen.

Later in the episode, we sit down with Russ Friedell, Talent Buyer for Ithaca Reggae Fest, to talk about this year’s event, what’s new in 2025, and the deeper purpose behind the festival’s roots.

If you care about live music, community, and what keeps it all moving in Ithaca—this episode’s for you.

Broadcasting from their brand-new Studio 1A at The Bike Bar, Pete and Mikey Swerves dive into Ithaca’s hottest upcoming concerts—from country star Ashley McBryde at the State Theatre to jam-packed shows at Deep Dive and the Winter Village Music Camp. Then, lace up your boots for the “Great Outdoors” segment, where they share insights on Lick Brook Trail’s breathtaking waterfalls, 2.5-mile trek, and photo-worthy views. Don’t miss this blend of local music buzz and scenic adventure on The Pulse of Ithaca!

In this week's episode of The Pulse of Ithaca, Pete and Michael bring you the latest in Ithaca’s music scene, from Fall Creek Brass Band to the epic “Halloween” funk party with The Comb Down. Plus, we cover the 3rd Annual Halloween Classic XC Bike Ride—costumes, bikes, and all the spooky fun you need! The hosts also discuss the results of the "Best of Ithaca" presented by the Ithaca Times. In the Great Outdoors segment, Pete shares his journey into mountain biking and highlighting the best local trails. Michael dives into his breathtaking northern lights photography, giving tips on how to capture this natural wonder.

Third Annual Halloween Classic XC Bike & Halloween Barn Party Halloween: https://www.bikereg.com/halloween-classic-cx?orc=1#Register

🎙️ Welcome to Season 2 of The Pulse of Ithaca Podcast! 🎙️

In this exciting season premiere, your host Pete introduces the new co-host, Michael, aka Mikey Swerves, a local freelance photographer and outdoor enthusiast. Together, they dive into the latest music and entertainment news in Ithaca, NY, and reminisce about their summer adventures—hiking trails, photographing waterfalls, and catching local shows.

This week, they cover:

• The 41st Apple Harvest Festival (Sept 27-29), featuring live music, street performers, craft vendors, and of course, lots of apples! 🍎
• Upcoming shows at the State Theatre, Deep Dive, and more, including Neko Case on October 4th and the Finger Lakes Comedy Festival (Sept 26-28).
• Local music buzz: Scuba Jerry and Cast Iron Cowboys at Bernie Milton Pavilion, and new album releases from New Planets, Rose & The Bros plus much more!

Tune in for all the details on Ithaca’s bustling entertainment scene, and don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth coverage of local music, events, and culture!

Listen now and keep your finger on the Pulse of Ithaca!

This week hosts Sean and Pete are thrilled to welcome Michael Mazza, the dynamic founder of Ithaca Reggae Fest and the Youth Entrepreneur Market. Michael shares his journey and the impact of these initiatives on the Ithaca community.

Alongside this engaging interview, Sean and Pete dive into the vibrant local entertainment scene, with updates on upcoming concerts and festivals at Lincoln Hills Farms, Wonderland Forest, and the Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival. They also highlight local events like the Ithaca Festival and exciting shows at Deep Dive and the State Theater.

In the final segment, the hosts share their recent camping and biking adventures.