SHOW BRAIN: A BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR NYC MUSIC

Written by Irisa Z. Photos by Irisa Z.

If you're looking for something to do on a weekend in New York City, you'll be overwhelmed with options. The city that never sleeps has at least a hundred things going on at all hours. However, for music lovers looking to find their new favorite acts the choice is simple: Show Brain. During the summer weekends, there are free all ages concerts in Manhattan and Brooklyn parks. These free events are hosted by Show Brain, a non-profit organization that brings music to an accessible platform for all ages to attend.

On Friday, May 2nd, I made my way to Washington Square Park for their first free show of the season. There I met Ozzie, the head of Show Brain, and as luck would have it they needed a volunteer photographer to help cover the event. Over the next 2 months, I got to know Ozzie and the rest of the Show Brain volunteers, and learned about how such a vital organization came to be.

Bodega playing the first Show Brain event of the year at Washington Square Park

Back in 2020, venues across New York shuttered their doors thanks to the global pandemic.

Some closed temporarily, while others tragically never opened again. During that time, bands scrambled to find a way to stay in the public eye and promote their new releases. Social media was the obvious answer, but artists longed to play live shows again; the energy of the crowd was sorely needed. In 2021, inspiration for the concept of outdoor shows hit Ozzie, in the form of buskers playing in a park. From there, he set out to use his experience and connections as a musician to keep live music alive.

Balaclava performing at the June 1st Show Brain event in Maria Hernandez Park

Organizing the first show in 2023 wasn't easy of course, he had to jump obvious hurdles like funds, sound equipment, and attaining permits from the city. But those hurdles did not stop Ozzie from creating something so important for many. Since then, Show Brain has come to host not just local NYC acts, but touring bands as well. Each show has resulted in fantastic turn out, the people come in waves as the music stops them in their tracks. They let curiosity get the best of them, and in a busy city like New York, take the rare chance to slow down and enjoy. I strongly recommend catching any Show Brain events this summer, as they are a great opportunity to support a good cause and get to know your community. Show Brain accepts donations to help keep the show running, and is always looking for volunteers.

The next show dates are Sunday, July 13th in Tompkins Square Park, and Saturday, July 19th in Maria Hernandez Park.