Since Chris Bro launched the NEXT Charity Concert Series , little has changed.
The Westchester resident and host of The Peak’s music show NEXT is still passionate about introducing local audiences to talented up-and-coming bands and supporting local charities while doing so.
But as the series has grown in scope, the monthly concerts will join another former Pleasantville-based entity—Captain Lawrence Brewing Company.
"It's something that we had been talking about for a while and it really just came down to Captain Lawrence getting their correct permits and correct OKs," explained Bro, one of the series' co-founders. "I've got the great music, they've got the great beer."
of 2011 and was based out of Pleasantville's . Bro donated proceeds from each concert to Gilda's Club of Westchester and the Greyston Foundation.
Moving forward, he plans to mix up the charities that will benefit from the concerts and will seek input from the bands and Captain Lawrence, less than one year ago.
The new larger tasting room at the brewery has opened doors for more events and longer tasting hours, according to Tasting Room Manager Aaron Pozit.
Additionally, since its move, the brewery has started serving and selling 12-oz bottled beers in varities including Kolsch, Liquid Gold and Pumpkin Ale.
"Since we have such a big space, it's absolutely gorgeous inside," Pozit said. "We have a lot more space now; and rather than just coming in for free samples, we wanted to do something a little more fun for everyone."
The brewery has been hosting bocce ball tournaments outdoors and trivia inside on a regular basis. Pozit thinks the concerts will add to the vibe and draw in more beer and music lovers.
"Basically, it's just fun," he said of the space. "People sample different beers and talk about beers. We have people who come in on a pretty regular basis. Since there's going to be music involved, it's a fun ride."
On Thursday, Black Taxi will again perform live as part of the series, but this time, in Elmsford.
"Even if you like rock and roll just a little bit, you will be flabbergasted after their show," said Bro. "That's the great thing about this—Black Taxi just sold out the Bowery Ballroom. This is a very mellow, cool, once-in-a-lifetime thing."
Bro said he is constantly being asked how he gets such exceptional bands to perform in the series. After Thursday, the series will continue on September 21, October 18, November 29 and December 13 of this year.
"Hopefully, it gets bigger and bigger and bigger," he said. "People can honestly not believe the level of talent that comes out to these shows. They are always shocked."
Black Taxi will perform on Thursday, July 23 at Captain Lawrence Brewing Company (444 Saw Mill River Rd. Elmsford) at 7 p.m. $10 cover charge. Read more about the concert series here.
