Live Reviews

Songsalive! December 2007 Showcase Review

December 15th, 2007 marked the kickoff of the new monthly Songsalive! Showcase in Hollywood, happening every third Saturday. We were tremendously excited about our new night and venue, and we were not disappointed!
The new environment - and all the lovely complications that remind you you're in Hollywood on a Saturday night - didn't slow us down a bit! We had a good crowd early, and got started right on time. Host Aaron Black, did a few tunes to get the show rolling.
Our first artist to take the stage was Doug Conlon, a brand-new member who joined after attending one of our terrific Songsalive! Workshops (held the first Sunday of every month at the The Magdalene Center, at 4822 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91601, from Noon to 3:00 PM). Doug gave us a mini-set full of his fascinating lyrics, sometimes passionate and sometimes thoughtful, but always engaging. He accompanied himself solidly on guitar, holding down the rhythm and throwing in some nice tasty fills. Great job wearing the mantle of our first official Hollywood Showcase artist ever!
Next up was an old friend of Songsalive! and our showcases. StephenGC is a longtime member and performer with his own unique style. Pretty guitar playing and his trademark falsetto voice blend, giving an ethereal sound to go along with his nicely imagery-loaded and intriguing lyrics.
Our third artist was a new and very talented addition to the roster of L.A. Songsalive! Showcase artists. Michelle Mangione, brought along her friend Steve with his cool acoustic-electric bass, and shared her infectious energy with a very appreciative room. Her songs were full of catchy hooks and toe-tapping rhythms, with lyrics brimming with wit, wisdom and from-the-heart emotion. An extra special thanks goes out to Michelle for the audience she brought. She brought in a healthy quantity of people, and they not only stayed all night and patronized the establishment (important for us to keep our venue!), they were open to and interested in live original music, and came out ready to enjoy the whole show. Way to go, Michelle!
And way to go to the other artists for making sure those folks, and the rest of the audience, got to see what they came for!
Original music doesn't get much more original than our next performer of the evening. Brooke Trout, plugged in her beat-box, and slinging her electric guitar, took us into her strange and wonderful world full of funny, punny, thought-provoking lyrics, driving fuzz-wah guitar, and disturbingly entertaining vocal acrobatics.
Next, singer/songwriter Reggie Love, gave us our first taste of the Karma's piano for the night. A sweet, soulful voice that was perfect for the equally sweet and soulful lyrics, and accompanied with bluesy, melodic piano-playing. A great Songsalive debut for Reggie!
Our final performer was also new to the L.A. Songsalive showcase scene, and he's another welcome talent. Versatile artist Lee Butcher gave us a couple intricate and beautiful fingerstyle guitar ballads, and then closed with a power-chord rocker sung with spellbindingly intense emotion.
Because our artists and their guests arrived on time, and because nobody had any special setup requirements, and because of one late cancellation from an artist with a family emergency (best wishes to Robbie Kaye; she'll be performing in a showcase soon!), we found ourselves with a chunk of extra time, which we put to good use by bringing several of our artists back up for an encore, much to the delight of the audience.
Another big thank you to our terrific new venue, Karma Coffeehouse, to all the Songsalive supporters who came out, and special thanks also to volunteer Mark Micklin who was on hand to pass around the tip jar and email list, and to help keep things running smoothly!
All in all, it was a great night, and an auspicious beginning for a new Los Angeles songwriters' tradition, the Songsalive! Showcase, Hollywood Saturday Night Edition!!!

Artists that want to get in on an upcoming showcase - please contact me at losangeles@songsalive.com or fill out the Showcase app on http://www.songsalive.org  and follow the emailing instructions there.

Thanks,
Aaron Black
Los Angeles Coordinator

Report for Sept 20, 2007
New York showcase and workshop special event at Mo Pitkins

Local to New York, award-winning piano songstress Amy Clarke, Australian powerhouse performer & Songsalive! President gilli moon and Austin, TX poet-rocker Melissa Mullins were on the bill for the special Songsalive! Showcase. 
Mo Pikins is a great room to play and cozy too; we had a great crowd, all happy to listen and enjoy and create community through music.
Melissa Mullins started off the show, captivating the audience with her intensity and dynamics - her M.O. - petite girl with the big guitar and big voice; She has a powerful presence and magnetic energy on stage.
Then Amy Clarke followed, standing behind her piano, owning the stage, and beautiful, uplifting songs.  This was Amy's last show in NYC for awhile, as she's moving to Los Angeles.  Her friends and fans in the audience will surely miss her.
Then gilli moon closed the night, performing an array of tunes from her broad catalog of original material.  She was definitely a 'Female On Fire', full of energy and wit - a true entertainer.  She had the audience laughing, and in moments, on the other end of the spectrum, serious. 
At the end of the show, community sparks - Songsalive! workshop attendees, Steve Archdeacon, Chloe Watkins, and Dan Schteingart, were so inspired to be a part of the Songsalive! event, that they have gathered together to create a team for the NY Chapter.  We'll keep you posted on when a new venue is established for the monthly events.

Report for Sept 5, 2007
Grass Valley SA Chapter - Nevada City @ Coopers:

The Grass Valley Songsalive! Showcase at Coopers in Nevada City is ROCKIN’ the town as usual!
The Songsalive! Showcase in Nevada City, held on the first Wednesday of each month The September 5th Showcase consisted of songwriter/host Michael Gregory, joined by guest, local songwriter Ray of Light, former owner of The Beat in Grass Valley. Also appearing was our former Grass Valley Songsalive co-host, Molly Roth.

Michael opened with several up-tempo songs. The guest artists were introduced and Michael explained a little about the great benefits of Songsalive! membership. He then played several more songs as the club began to fill up.
The first entertainer to come up was Ray of Light with his two accompanists, Andy on congas and electric violinist, Robert. Ray and his boys got the place jumpin’ in a hurry. Ray, who was formerly a drummer, writes songs with a strong Afro-rhythm influence.
Next up was Molly Roth with her beautiful, modern alt rock compositions. Michael joined her on a few songs. Then Molly sang a few of Michael’s songs. Ray of light played a second set as he brought several fans who wanted more of his music.
There were about 50-60 people in attendance which was up from the previous show.

Michael A. Gregory
Grass Valley, CA
Songsalive Chapter Coordinator

PS: Please note, if you are considering a tour in this direction we allow MORE time per performer at this point. The club pays a small stipend the show, so I can guarantee some expense money!  We seldom get more than 3 or 4 songwriter’s per show. It is a wonderful opportunity to build a fan base in Northern California and actually play most of your material. Cooper’s is "the" music nightclub in Nevada City. It is known for having a large variety of different styles of entertainment, from cover bands, to some of the best original bands. There is a full stage, a decent Mackie/JBL house pa, monitors and a lighting system. I provide an acoustic guitar amp, mikes and stands. There is a public radio station here in town, which reports to the college radio charts (www.KVMR.ORG) and the local newspaper is friendly to my articles and promotions.

If YOU play at any of my showcases you will be promoted locally through every possible media I can reach. Please be aware there is a 2-week minimum lead-time to make the paper and the radio station’s public announcements.
 

August 2007:  The Grass Valley Songsalive! Showcase at Coopers in Nevada City is ROCKIN’ the town as usual!

The Songsalive! Showcase in Nevada City, which is normally the first Wednesday of each month The August showcase consisted of songwriter/host Michael Gregory, joined by guest, local songwriter and new Songsalive! Member, Catherine Scholz with her accompanist Mike. Show stoppers, The Kimberly Trip were the very special guests for the evening.

Michael opened with several up-tempo songs. Then the guest artists were introduced as usual and Michael explained a little about the great benefits of Songsalive! membership. He then played several more songs as the club began to fill up.

The first entertainer to come up was Songsalive member Catherine Scholz with her friend, Mike, backing her up on lead guitar. She played several songs from her upcoming CD. Several of Catherine’s friends came out to see her performance. She mesmerized the audience with her captivating melodies and beautiful lyrics.

Next up was The Kimberly Trip, Sacramento’s most popular alternative rock band. They did a fun filled variety of their UN-plugged versions of their humorous and very modern up-tempo songs. The audience was VERY impressed with their cool songs and lively presentation. There’s never a dull moment when these guys are in the house! This is one act you have to see.

This was only the third time this show was presented at Cooper’s and the word was out for August. There were about 45-50 people in attendance.

Michael A. Gregory
Grass Valley, CA
Songsalive Chapter Coordinator

PS: Please note, if you are considering a tour in this direction we allow MORE time per performer at this point. We each played almost an hour total this time. It is a wonderful opportunity to build a fan base in Northern California and actually play most of your material. Cooper’s is “the” music nightclub in Nevada City. It is known for having a large variety of different styles of entertainment, from cover bands, to some of the best original bands. There is a full stage, a decent Mackie/JBL house pa, monitors and a lighting system. I provide an acoustic guitar amp, mikes and stands. There is a public radio station here in town, which reports to the college radio charts (www.KVMR.ORG) and the local newspaper is friendly to my articles and promotions.

If YOU play at any of my showcases you will be promoted locally through every possible media I can reach. Please be aware there is a 2-week minimum lead-time to make the paper and the radio station’s public announcements.
 

June Songsalive! Seattle Showcase @ The Conor Byrne Thursday, June 28th
We had a great variety of solo acts and full band acts last night starting with returning member, Stephen Bucklew wperforming Beatles inspired folk tunes performing on guitar and harmonica. Next up was Eden Smith who performed with her bassist and drummer. They played songs off of her upcoming release "Spoonfuls" which will be out next month. She channels Regina Spektor and Patty Griffin and sings beautifully. Next up was LA performer Manisha Shahane who performed a beautiful set combining her Indian roots with pop. Her father also joined her for a couple songs playing the tablas. Following, returning member Thornton Bowman who was joined by his guitarist and back up singer/mandolin player performing an amazing bluegrass set. Also returning member, Tom Laramee, kept things going with his indie pop songs including songs off of his latest CD, "Seven Shades of Time." And to wrap up the night, co-host, Carrie Clark performed a blend of country and cabaret with new songs inspired by her recent tour as well as songs off of her most recent CD, "Seems So Civilized."

All in all, a successful show with a steady stream of fans coming and going with a total tally of about 50 folks listening. No signups for the email list this month. Coming up on July 26th, the following members will be performing....Marc Daniel, Sue Quigley, Steve Mason and Camille Bloom. Carrie is currently booking and has slots available for August and September showcases. Carrie is also looking for Seattle folks who are interested in taking over hosting the Seattle showcases as she will be going on tour starting in September. Please contact seattle@songsalive.org for more information.

cheers!  Carrie Clark, Seattle Hostess
http://www.songsalive.org/seattle

June Songsalive! Sydney, Australia Showcase @ The Cat & Fiddle  Sunday, June 24th, 2007

It was a very cold Sunday afternoon and it looked like most people were going to stay home in front of the heater when we began our showcase for June.  However, as the show progressed, the patrons started filing in and we had a modest but appreciative crowd before too long. Our line-up was similar to what we’ve had for the last few showcases, except for one notable exception – Angelique, a Songsalive! member from Los Angeles who was in Australia promoting her new CD and was able to squeeze a gig with us into her schedule. More on her later.
Annita Cullen went on as icebreaker, and she certainly generates enough warmth to do that. Accompanied on guitar by Billy Klaassen, she treated us to the beautifully melodic and lyrically inspired songs that have made her a favourite at these events. Russell Neal has performed at every showcase this year – we’re just about singing along to his songs now. As usual he had his tandem guitars and quiver full of disarmingly honest songs, holding his own as the only male performer on the running sheet. Laurie McKern was spritely and sharp as ever. Also accompanied by Billy on guitar, and occasionally picking up a rainstick, Laurie’s charm and edginess provided a nice pivot into the latter part of the evening.
Laura Sullivan is relatively new to the showcase scene, yet performs with confidence and has already developed a rapport with the audience. Her performance this time was tinged with sadness as she shared the story of a recent loss. It exemplified the value of music as a tool for expressing and sharing emotions.  
And of course, finally, Angelique. Angelique has a funky, R & B sound and down-to-earth lyrics and is a charismatic performer. The lighting, aided by the fact that it was now dark outside, and the use of a backing track with full instrumental sound gave Angelique's performance a professional, ‘main event’ feel. It was great to have an o/s visitor and we wish her luck with promotion of her CD.
As a special treat, we had an impromptu performance by a jazz ensemble made up of a father, two sons and the son of one of our Songsalive! members. Though they weren’t officially part of the showcase, their virtuosity and groove were an inspiring way to round off the evening.
Hope to see more Songsalive! members there next time!

Rita Bratovich

Songsalive Showcase, May 27^th 2007, Cat & Fiddle Hotel, Balmain.

 

It was unseasonably sunny and warm on Sunday afternoon when we held our fourth showcase for the year. Once again, we had fairly good representation both on stage and off-stage, but we would still like to encourage our fellow Songsalivers and friends to participate as audience and performers.

One Songsaliver who has become a regular at these gigs is Russell Neal. His unassuming, laid back style was a smooth ice-breaker for the afternoon’s entertainment. Mixing it up with both tested and fresh material, and toggling between his small and standard-sized guitars, Russell regaled us with his witty songs as we blew the foam off our first beers.

Following close on his heels with a modest set of four songs was Eleanor Baker playing keyboard with friend Sarah Hyland on vocals. The duo had a perceptible rapport that carried over in their performance. Eleanor’s music is very easy to absorb and appreciate from the first listen and her professional yet relaxed on-stage demeanour helps her connect instantly with an audience.

Next we had the first of our two virgin acts for the day. Stuart and Zelda Sheldon, who have performed as a duet in the past, sang a set of high-energy, country-flavoured tunes with their new band – “The Mixed Grill”. Articulate as much in their wardrobe as their sound (Zelda’s boots rate a special mention) they held the crowd in their thrall (most of whom they had invited. It’s rare that we have a band perform at a showcase and it was a particular thrill to one as great to watch as these guys were.

Shifting mood and style way over to the other side was the ever mesmerisingly quirky Laurie McKern, accompanied on guitar by Billy Klaassen. Laurie has a pure, intoxicating voice that could be enjoyed for it’s sound alone were her lyrics not so attention-grabbing. The combination of inherent musicality and candid story telling make Laurie a unique and exciting experience.

Appearing for the first time at a Showcase and showing a surprising degree of poise and confidence was Laura Sullivan. With the challenging role of going on last, she managed to hold the audience’s attention, singing a selection of  “life-inspired” songs and accompanying herself on guitar. Laura has a convincing stage presence and we hope to see her again at future showcases.

 

All in all not a bad way to spend an afternoon. Why don’t you come to the next one and see for yourself!

 

Rita Bratovich

 

Sharing: Final Talking Stick showcase 4/26/07

It took an extra day to submit this lil' review because it was SO amazing!  Starting off with the fact that almost all the artists were on time, even with a major traffic problem close by, it was obvious everyone took this showcase seriously.
Starting off with some sweet instrumentals on his recently purchased guitar, Shawn Cunnane debuted two new works, dedicated to gilli & Toni, in honor of the work they do for Songsalive!  Sweet & dynamic, both songs reflected much of the personality of these two & set the mood & atmosphere for what was to come.
Rising Nashville artist Tori Sparks came up next & delivered a fully polished & powerful set. Candy apple red guitar in hand, sparkly skirt, excellent vocals & solid guitar work, along with a natural stage presence, Tori worked her 3 song set like the true headliner she is.  Count on having to buy tickets to see her next time she's in town!
Because this was to be our last showcase @ the Talking Stick (venue was sold), gilli brought in her whole band for an extra-special show.  Fitting a six-piece band into a 10x10 space was pretty tight, but then, so was the sound. With the musicians is such close proximity to each other, the band blended together as one voice, locking into an undeniable groove with gilli holding the keys (literally!). The half-hour set easily rivaled some of the best performances gilli & her band have played at any venue, & here we were, an intimate group of friends, sharing in the experience of a world class performance. With songs from every one of her CD's , gilli connected with everyone in the room with an electrifying blast of energy
that took everyone far beyond the walls of the venue, & deep into the heart of the artist.
Gilli RAWKS.
How could anyone follow a performance like that?  J. Walker, with a powerful spoken word set brought it back flawlessly,
keepin' it real while still transcending the boundaries of the 'Stick, swinging the energy from the stage back into ourselves, as his words provided a point of reflection.  How we as artists & listeners perceive what's happening on stage, sometimes putting it all together with one common phrase that can make everyone smile.
Nor Cal artist Trevor Justice followed J., & pulled off a great set & a SINGALONG about being a whole food vegan, inspite of an injury to one of his hands. With an easy smile, engaging vocals & lively keyboard style, Trevor kept the attitude up & smilin', & even had the barrista singin' along at the end. With smooth silky vocals & a touch of fire, Setra wound down the evening with her ethereally compelling songs, with a lil' spiritual sauce on the side…setting the stage for me to end the evening with "Count your Blessings", knowing that all of us have been truly blessed to have had an opportunity to share our lives with each other @ the Talking Stick.  Yeah, here it is Tuesday & I'm still feelin' the glow.  Good stuff!
Submitted by Jimi Yamagishi
 

Starting this month The Grass Valley Songsalive Showcase will be held at Cooper's, 235 Commercial Street in Nevada City, CA. 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm. It will be the first Wednesday of each month normally. Due to a few scheduling issues the June Showcase will be on the 2nd Wednesday, June 9th. Anyone wishing to perform please let me know. We are always looking for new, talented people. The unique thing about this venue is that there is a small budget provided for anyone who performs at the showcase. Please contact me for details. This would be a great venue for anyone passing through this area on tour to pick up a few dollars towards expenses. We are permitted to sell cd's and keep 100% of the sales as well. Cooper's is the most popular night club in Nevada County and is known all over this region for MUSIC! There is a house PA, lights and a large stage.

We just started having a workshop in April. It will continue to be on the 3rd Monday of each month at Lode Line Studios here in Grass Valley, CA. The next one will be on May 16th.


Michael Gregory
http://www.songsalive.org/grassvalley

 

April Songsalive! Seattle Showcase @ The Conor Byrne Thursday, 4/26
First up, returning member, Thornton Bowman with his backing guitarist and master of vocal harmonies, Don Miller. They kicked off the evening with an amazing set of bluegrass tunes including a beautiful blues song Thornton had written for his daughter. Next up, the lovely Tamara Lewis, who was definitely channeling Patsy Cline. A beautiful bluesy set including a naughty song about her plumber.... She was joined by Alice Boytz on fiddle. Eden Smith was up next and performed an amazing folk pop set of songs that will be on her upcoming debut CD. She definitely inspired us with her unique and beautiful sound. Following Eden, was Stephen Bucklew, a songwriter very much inspired by the Beatles as well as his many lifetime occupations as a naturopathic Doctor, Electrical Contractor, builder/carpenter/plumber, and father of two. His assorted tales of woe and foot-tappin' sing-a-longs were fantastic. To wrap up the night, co-host, Carrie Clark joined by one of her Lonesome Lovers, guitarist, Greg Fulton performed a blend of country and cabaret with new songs inspired by her recent tour as well as songs off of her most recent CD, "Seems So Civilized."

All in all, a successful show with a steady stream of fans coming and going with a total tally of about 25-30 folks listening. No signups for the email list this month. Coming up on May 31st, the following members will be performing....Mike Buchman, Steve Mason, Aileen Paron, Marc Steiner (Daniels) and Carrie Clark. There is one slot available for any members that are interested and available.

cheers!
Carrie
http://www.songsalive.org/seattle

 

Los Angeles Songsalive! Showcase at the Talking Stick

 

We are winding down at the Talking Stick in Santa Monica after 2 glorious years of wonderful music. The artists tonight were Paul Lawrence Moyer, Stephen GC, Anton Ryan and guest Amy Therrien with Kirsten. A few customers came in for coffee and stayed for most of the night. The enthusiasm for the music was most gratifying. Paul helped with sound and also was a good sport performing last. A surprise guest came by, Rob Manning, from Malibu, who asked what he had to do to perform. I said, "Well, we ask that you are a member and apply to showcase." He said, "Sign me up", and joined on the spot.  That's been happening lately - songwriters come check us out, and then join on the spot.  Since we had a minimal lineup, we let Rob perform 2 songs at the end of the night. He also talked with Paul, who is also our Los Angeles Songsalive! Workshop coordinator, and hung out after the show, feeling good from performing. We promoted our upcoming events, especially the Songsalive! Workshop to happen on Sunday, April 1 with Doug Welch, and also Method Fest, Indie Music Night that would be later the evening on Sunday, April 1. I hope that our Los Angeles Team will make a point to come out Thursday, April 26, our last night at The Talking Stick. Jimi has said he'll be there, J Walker and gilli moon also are on to perform - 1-2 songs each - this will be a night when we'll share the stage with as many songwriters as we can. Spread the word and we'll make it a great party. Showtime 8pm - 10pm.

Toni K.  

www.songsalive.org/losangeles