Annie & the Hedonists delivers a vibrant, genre-spanning journey through a century of American music, masterfully blending vintage jazz, blues, swing, folk roots, and Americana. Fronted by the captivating vocals of Annie Rosen, the band masterfully channels the raw energy and soul of the great trailblazing female blues artists of the 1920s through the 1940s—including Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
The group’s wide-ranging live shows span roughly 100 years of the American songbook. They smoothly transition from 1920s jazz-age classics to Delta blues, Western swing, gospel, and socially conscious folk or contemporary Americana. Their performances are often praised for uncovering hidden gems, featuring witty "double entendre" songs, and paying homage to under-appreciated artists of early American music.
The band's polished and soulful sound is created by a lineup of seasoned musicians:
Annie Rosen (Lead Vocals): Channels the emotive power and soul of early-20th-century female blues and jazz legends like Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. Jonny Rosen (Guitar and Vocals): Provides the rhythmic backbone and acts as a founding core of the band's repertoire. Peter Davis (Clarinet, Tenor Guitar, Piano, Banjo): Brings incredible multi-instrumental versatility to their diverse arrangements. Don Young (Upright Bass and Vocals): Anchors the rhythm and frequently steps in for soulful lead vocals. Jerry Marotta (Drums/Percussion): A renowned veteran drummer (formerly of Peter Gabriel and the Indigo Girls) who adds deep, dynamic grooves to the band's live sound.
Whether they are reviving forgotten jazz-age gems, sharing witty "double entendre" classics, or weaving contemporary folk melodies, Annie & the Hedonists treat audiences to an "intoxicating listen" wrapped in warmth, deep grooves, and stellar musicianship. Join us for an unforgettable night of toe-tapping rhythms, soulful storytelling, and musical celebration with the award-winning Annie & the Hedonists!
Two-time Winners: Capital Region Thomas Edison "Blues Artist of the Year" (2020 & 2025).
A sly, groovy throwback to the Jazz Age." — Sarah Craig, Executive Director of Caffè Lena.
Refreshments will be available during intermission.
The Remsen Concert Series 2026 is made possible in part with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by CNY Arts. Plus members, sponsors, and community support.