It was Funk and Pride Night at Albany’s Alive at Five, and singer-songwriter and pianist Neal Francis entertained in the tradition of classic New Orleans artists. Amsterdam, N.Y.’s TV Doctors warmed up the crowd.

Review and Photos by Zak Radick for NYS Music

Neal Francis at Alive at Five (June 12, 2025) – photo by Zak Radick for NYS Music

 Showing off his playful side, Francis then grinned and asked, “Any dads in the crowd? This one’s for you,” before launching into a deep-grooved, jammed-out cover of Deep Purple’s “Hush.” It was funky, unexpected, and infectious fun.

– Zak Radick for NYS Music

Photos by Timothy Reidy for RadioRadioX

Neal Francis at Alive at Five (June 12, 2025) – photo by Timothy Reidy for RadioRadioX

Photos by Michael Hallisey for the Spot 518