Thursday, October 1, 2026
Freeport’s Nautical Mile turned into a harbor of smooth sounds on Friday night as New Yacht City took the stage at Sparkle on Stage for a celebration of 1970s and ’80s soft rock.
The eight-piece tribute band, known for its faithful renditions of hits by Steely Dan, Toto, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins and Christopher Cross, delivered an energetic set that brought a throwback party atmosphere to the waterfront venue. Doors opened at 7 p.m., and the show began at 8.
As the night unfolded, the band’s tight rhythm section and brass-driven arrangements drew an enthusiastic response from the crowd.
Robyn Workman, owner of the Sparkle on Stage Cultural Arts Center, said afterward, “New Yacht City had the boats rocking,” said Robyn Workman, owner of Sparkle on Stage Cultural Arts Center. “Their rhythm section and amazing horns kept the audience hopping and moving while the vocals covered the sounds of the Doobie Bros., Christopher Cross, Bob Scaggs and so many other singing along.”
Founded in 2022, New Yacht City was created by keyboardist and vocalist Manish Nag after years of performing across genres. The ensemble — featuring guitar, bass, drums, horns and multiple vocalists — has built a reputation for high-energy performances and a deep appreciation for the smooth-rock era. The project first formed among musicians Nag met through his work in media and tech, eventually growing into a full band with regular performances across the region.
Nag, now based in New Jersey and working in data analytics, has been immersed in music since childhood, and the group’s sound reflects both his long musical background and the band’s diverse influences. Their arrangements often included inventive twists on familiar classics, blending original soft-rock foundations with modern elements and improvisational breaks shaped by the band’s jazz-trained members.
The group also brought strong Nassau County roots to the Freeport show. Several members are longtime Long Islanders, including guitarist Ed Cipriano of New Hyde Park, trumpet player Kenny Feldman of Syosset, and vocalist Alex Ranieri of East Meadow. Nag himself was born in Jamaica, Queens.
“There was great energy in the room, and Robin was a wonderful host,” said Nag. “We are really looking forward to coming back to Freeport!”
The evening left audience members smiling as they swayed between nostalgia and high-energy musicianship. Workman said the crowd’s reaction spoke for itself, adding, “Everyone was smiling and reminiscing! Watch our calendar for when they will sail into port again!”
Sparkle on Stage, located at 195 Woodcleft Ave., capped the evening with hot coffee and cocoa for guests — part of its effort to continue expanding its slate of live performances. Tickets were available both online and at the door for $25. The venue plans to continue its concert schedule through December as it broadens its lineup on the Nautical Mile.
