NYS MUSIC | Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls: Music on a Mission

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On February 20th, the legendary Caffè Lena in Saratoga Springs came alive with an unforgettable, sold-out performance by Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls, featuring the immensely talented Cassandra Kubinski as the evening’s opener.

As the oldest continuously operating folk music venue in the country, Caffè Lena has hosted icons like Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie and even helped launch Jon Bernthal’s acting career—best known for his roles in The Punisher and The Walking Dead.

With such a rich history, this intimate, nonprofit venue was the perfect setting for an evening of powerful, piano-driven music. Its storied past and close-knit atmosphere brought out the best in every performer, forging a deep connection with the crowd.

Kubinski kicked things off with a set that immediately hypnotized the audience and their attention. Her soulful voice and sharp storytelling set the tone for the night, blending vulnerability with strength in each note. Her magnetic energy filled the room, and the crowd felt the passion behind every lyric.

Then, Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls took the stage, and they elevated the experience to a whole new level. The band commanded the room with an infectious and warming energy that resonated in every corner of the space. Their sound was rich with depth and soul, leaving the audience utterly smitten with Pete’s storytelling.

There was something uniquely special about witnessing his performance in such a historic venue—an artist deeply invested in philanthropic causes bringing his heart into a place that has long championed community and artistic expression. It was an immersive experience that left everyone wanting more. 

The venue’s acoustics, paired with its rich legacy, made the night feel even more powerful. History seemed to reverberate through the walls, and the crowd fed off that energy. Every song felt a little more profound, and every moment seemed to matter just a bit more.

For Caffè Lena, a venue that has been a nurturing ground for talent and a pillar of the local music community for decades, this night was a perfect reminder of why it remains an integral part of Saratoga Springs’ cultural landscape. The sold-out crowd was a testament to the undeniable bond between artists, their music, and the fans who continue to support them.

In short, this night was a brilliant showcase of the magic that unfolds when exceptional music, a historic venue, and an engaged crowd come together. It’s no surprise that Pete Muller and the Kindred Souls are making waves—this concert was nothing short of spectacular.