Yo La Tengo Reinterpret “New York Groove” as “New York Jews” for Hanukkah
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Yo La Tengo’s Hanukkah Residency: A New York Holiday Tradition
What is Yo La Tengo’s Hanukkah Residency?
For over two decades, the indie rock band Yo La Tengo has transformed New York City’s Bowery Ballroom into a haven for music lovers during the eight nights of Hanukkah. Beginning in 2001, the residency has become a beloved tradition, known for its eclectic mix of covers, originals, and surprise guests. It’s a unique event that blends musical artistry with the spirit of the holiday season.
The 2023 Residency: A Stellar Start
hanukkah 2023 began on the evening of Sunday, December 10th, and with it, Yo La Tengo launched their annual residency at the Bowery Ballroom. The opening night featured a especially notable lineup, with comedian Jon Glaser and the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra as surprise openers. The Sun Ra Arkestra, longtime friends of Yo La Tengo, joined the band onstage for a notable portion of the performance, creating a truly special and improvisational musical experience. Stereogum reported on the opening night’s energy and the seamless collaboration between the groups.
A History of Musical Variety
Yo La Tengo’s Hanukkah shows are renowned for their unpredictable setlists. While they consistently play their own material,a significant portion of each performance is dedicated to covers spanning a wide range of genres – from classic rock and pop to jazz and experimental music. Past performances have included interpretations of songs by The Velvet Underground, Bob dylan, and even television theme songs. The band often invites guests to join them onstage, further adding to the spontaneity and excitement of the shows.
| Year | Notable Guests/Highlights |
|---|---|
| 2005 | Thee Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra |
| 2010 | Lee Ranaldo (Sonic youth) |
| 2015 | Kurt Vile |
| 2018 | Sharon Van Etten |
| 2022 | Jeff Rosenstock |
Note: This table represents a small selection of past guests and highlights. The residency has featured numerous collaborators over the years.
Why Hanukkah?
The band’s connection to han