As the Goo Goo Dolls began their 2014 Otis Midnight Sessions Tour, they couldn’t have chosen a better venue than the newly renovated Oncenter Carrier Theater in downtown Syracuse, NY as their first stop on the tour.
The beautiful venue, with top-notch acoustic sound and lighting, could only showcase the ambience they wished to achieve in their “Story Tellers” format. As the Oncenter announced their first show to be performed in the theater, it took a mere 5 minutes for the Goo Goo Dolls to sell out the theater; this isn’t surprising though as the Goo Goo Dolls have amassed a huge following in this area. This could be attributed to the fact that they hail from Buffalo, NY, have an amazing new album, Magnetic, out with several hit songs already such as “Come To Me” and “Rebel Beat,” or because they have a fan base that spans generations as they have been together since their inception in 1986. Whatever the reason, it set the stage for an amazing first night in the theater.
The Goo Goo Dolls – 2014 The Otis Midnight Sessions Tour
As the night began, the stage was setup to resemble a jam session with bar stools, intimate lighting, and a hint of fog, all of which gave off a feeling of being an informal and cozy atmosphere. From the L.A. area, Run River North, opened the evening under a dimly lit stage to a first time audience. To say they blew away the house would be an understatement. The setting of the low light together with their harmonizing and musicality was awe-inspiring and mesmerizing. To describe their style and sound, one could say that if you crossed the Civil Wars (highlighting their acoustic prowess) with Mumford and Sons (highlighting their upbeat tempos and harmonizing), you would wind up with the unique sound of Run River North.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12Cv3bpj2a4]
Run River North is made up of six of the most talented young musicians; Alex Hwang on vocals and acoustic guitar, Daniel Chae on electric guitar and violin, Jennifer Rim on violin, Joseph Chun on bass, John Chong on drums, and Sally Kang on vocals and keys. Their unique sound was phenomenal and their stage presence immediately put the crowd at ease as they joked around and demonstrated their personalities. They definitely won over this crowd awaiting the Goo Goo Dolls, and left the stage with their new fans in the audience wanting more. Run River North was an excellent opening act and definitely did their job to warm up the crowd to the intimate feeling the Goo Goo Dolls were shooting for.
Run River North – 2014 Otis Midnight Sessions Tour
Soon thereafter, Johnny Rzeznik took his seat on stage, all alone, and immediately began an acoustic rendition of “Sympathy.” Once finished, he greeted his fans, welcomed them to the show, and began an intimate conversation about his inspirations for songs, his time in the Goo Goo Dolls, his friendships and relationships along the way, and slowly one by one he was joined on stage by Robby Takac, co-founder of the Goo Goo Dolls on vocals and bass, Korel Tunador, longtime touring keyboardist, guitarist, saxophonist, and backup vocalist, Brad Fernquist, longtime touring guitarist, mandolin player, and back up vocalist, and newcomer to the tour, Craig McIntyre, on drums and percussion.
Throughout the evening, Johnny and Robby shared their personal history of the Goo Goo Dolls, had conversations with the audience, and drew the audience in as they played such favorites as “Name,” “Slide,” and “Black Balloon.” One story Johnny shared really struck a chord; he told of how he had come upon a block party one day in NYC in which everyone was having a great time, sharing the day with friends and neighbors. He spoke of missing that camaraderie that was once normal to him growing up in Buffalo as he still to this day has yet to meet his neighbors in his current neighborhood. He found inspiration in this experience which lead to “Rebel Beat” being born. As one watches the video, you share what it must have been like to see that block party through Johnny’s eyes and it instills a wish to become more cohesive as a community.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUi8gQPsMdw]
This insight to life as seen through the eyes of the Goo Goo Dolls is what makes their songwriting special. This insight to life and times as they change is what has given the Goo Goo Dolls the longevity within their career as a group. Throughout the evening they made it a point to thank the audience and give credit to them as they are who have made it possible to do what they love all these years. They spoke of the bands that began with them at the same time and those bands are no longer around. It’s the mutual respect between the audience and band that has made this group endure the changes in music over the course of their career. Their music spans not only genres, but also generations of fans. Since the beginning, their music has reflected whatever is going on in their personal lives at that particular moment in time, just as it has with their audience. It’s this very personalization in their songwriting that appeals to the fans; it’s this insight into who they are that allows them to relate one on one with them as individuals and celebrate life’s ups and downs. One example, “Come To Me,” is the perfect model of art imitating life as Johnny writes this as his promise to his new bride.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8VMYLniuDk]
Longevity in the music business is unique and not often experienced as some bands and performers simply cannot evolve. Forming in 1986, they set out on a 28 year journey that’s produced 28 top ten singles. One of the most memorable of those singles was “Iris,” a song written for the City of Angels soundtrack. In 1998, the single was nominated for a Grammy for “Song of the Year.” Fast forward to 2011 and we see the same song re-enter the charts in the United Kingdom and hit number 3. Amazing! Johnny shared how he literally developed a writer’s block as the song’s deadline approached, but in the 9th hour he pulled the perfect song together to submit. Great things come from those under pressure and this shows how well adapted the Goo Goo Dolls have been over the course of their career as very few songs have accomplished this feat.
All in all, this was the perfect show to showcase the brand new Oncenter Carrier Theater, the perfect show to introduce Run River North to their newest fans here in New York, and the perfect show to kickoff the Goo Goo Dolls 2014 Otis Midnight Sessions Tour.
Central New Yorkers have ushered out the cold winter weather for the past three years with the help of Mohawk Valley Community College and Kiss FM 97.9/105.5 as they host their annual Spring Meltdown each April. This April’s event was even hotter than the previous years with the headlining British sensation, Cher Lloyd, and her special guest, David Correy.
Cher Lloyd
David Correy is more than just an amazing performer, he’s an inspiration to all of his fans world wide. Looking back on his life to date, David ‘s course of history appears to be predestined. Born in Brazil to a family in extreme poverty, his mother made the difficult decision to give David up for adoption to afford him more opportunities in life. This selfless act gave a couple in Annapolis, MD the opportunity to be a part of David’s life and love him as their own. Throughout his childhood David was always drawn to music and performing whether it was in school productions or singing and writing music where ever he could. David’s love for music was recognized and awarded with a full scholarship to the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston, MA. Off to refine his craft in Boston, David was dealt a horrendous blow in his sophomore year when he became ill and completely lost his voice. Having to give up school, David returned home to recuperate.
This, however, didn’t deter David though as he pushed through the roadblock to only bounce back with more determination to succeed. But shortly after that, fate once again had alternative plans for David when he was in a near fatal car accident. Once again David proved what he was made of and how much of a fighter he was, as he recovered and pushed back once again with even more perseverance. In 2012 David was a contender on the second season of the US version of the reality show, X-Factor, being a member of LA Reid’s team. Even thought he was eliminated, the appearance on the show lent a hand to fate once again and brought David and his birth mother back together as she recognized his baby photos on the show. Chronicling the reunion with all of his Facebook and Twitter fans as it unfolded, we all became part of his heart warming reunion with his mother and family in Brazil. Since the reunion, David’s talents have extended past the shores of America to incorporate fans world wide. He has had opportunities to work with greats such as Ne-Yo, Bow Wow, Omarion, and the likes over the last few years. This world wide acclaim has widened to now incorporate sports fans as David joins forces with Aloe Blacc on David’s new song “The World Is Ours”, the Coca- Cola 2014 FIFA World Cup Anthem.
In March of 2014, David once again was dealt with one of life’s unfairnesses with the passing of his adoptive mother. As he grieved, he picked himself up and pushed through the pain yet again. Joining us at MVCC for the 2014 Spring Meltdown only a few short weeks after his loss, he dedicated the show to his late mother and his Central NY family, the family that first embraced him at his first big show in 2012 at MVCC’s first Spring Meltdown, and the crowd welcomed him home with open arms.
Cher Lloyd
With the amazing talents of David Correy opening, Cher Lloyd could feel the love within the Jorgenson Complex as the crowd chanted and went wild in anticipation of the superstar to emerge. Cher Lloyd, at a young age of 20, hails from the UK and is best known for her appearance in the seventh series of the X Factor in the UK. Finishing fourth however didn’t deter her as she was signed immediately to Syco Music, Simon Cowell’s label. Releasing her first single “Swagger Jagger” the single went immediately to number one on the UK charts and five on the charts in Ireland. With a second release of her collaboration with Mike Posner on “With Ur Love”, her success was apparent as the single went top ten again. In October of 2011 Cher signed with Logan Entertainment and we saw the release of her premier album, Sticks & Stones here in the US shortly thereafter. The single “Want You Back” immediately went top ten and she was a household name in no time. In addition to her amazing musical talents, she’s a beauty. Signed as a model with the prestigious Select Agency, she began to appear on magazine covers as well.
Cher Lloyd
As Cher took the stage at MVCC, it was an amazing site to see how this petit firecracker took control of the stage and wrapped her audience around her little finger. Her stage presence spewed of passion, strength, and life on her own terms. As she sang many fan favorites from her first album Sticks & Stones interspersed with songs from the upcoming new album, Sorry I’m Late, (to be released by end of May 2014) it was apparent that her musical talents were unique and genuine to her vision. As she performed acoustic numbers such as “Goodnight” a ballad writen about her father, and “Sirens” you gathered an insight into this multi-talented artist as she is much more than a pop, rap, hip hop, contemporary R&B. She is a truly gifted songwriter and an amazing performer. When categorizing Cher Lloyd to any one genre, one would be pressed to select. She credits artists such as Nicki Minaj in trailblazing the unique sound she has created as well as legendary country artist Dolly Parton. With such a diverse inspirational background, it’s only inevitable that Cher would create an unique sound of her own.
Touring since 2011 with the XFactor tour, and then accompanying Hot Chelle Rae in 2012 and Taylor Switft in 2013 on her Red Tour validates her upward climb to success in the US. For those interested in catching her on tour this year, she will be out on the road with Demi Lovato on her 2014 Neon Lights Tour.
Cher Lloyd
Although Cher is only 20, her amazing talent and drive to the top signifies what a superstar this young lady is and will be in the future. Many artists rise to the top with a few hits, but it’s her diversity in music and the ability to stay true to her craft that will maintain Cher on the top for many years to come. It is the uniqueness of what she creates that makes her stand out above others. It is her honestly in her songwriting and performing. She’s definitely one that marches to the beat of her own drum, wearing her heart on her sleeve literally, proudly displaying her ink featuring her love of her father. Cher develops an aura at her show. By sharing details of her personal life with her audience she draws them in as friends and not just fans in an audience. If we were to make predictions on future stars to watch for that will stay true to their music, true to their personal beliefs, and true to their creativity, I would definitely place Cher on that list. If I were to choose one word to describe Cher, it would be honest. Cher is honest to herself and her fans, and that is why they love her.
On May 7th the road leads full circle for Ben Mauro, Syracuse native and world-class musician, as he takes the stage at Shifty’s Bar & Grill on 1401 Burnett Avenue to launch his new EP, Take Your Time. The year was 19-something when those at Shifty’s Bar & Grill first saw Ben take the stage for open mic night.
Since that time, he’s gone full steam ahead to have one of the most successful careers a musician could hope for, traveling the world, meeting and playing alongside the most amazing musicians, mentors, and fans along the way. However, after only two seconds I knew he was something special as we chatted about his upcoming event. The success that Ben has achieved has not changed his priorities, and this is apparent as he comes home to share this special release. Giving back to the community that embraced him originally was Ben’s goal, and for this we embrace our home town star and say thank you.
As I reviewed the new EP Take Your Time, I came away with a sense of who Ben is and what he wanted to achieve in his new release. His versatility is amazing to me and after speaking with him, I can see how all of the influences over the years lend to what we hear on Take Your Time. A positive vibe comes across in his sound as the lyrics tell a story of love, happiness, and living life uncomplicated as it should be. With a mix of pop, country, southern rock, jazz, and Latin flavor the audience is treated to many genres, sounds, and instruments along the way. In “She’s Beautiful”, the jazzy tune is upbeat and happy with an interjection of a sax solo that is reminiscent of songs during the Motown era. In “Complicated” Ben’s songwriting skills inherently shine through. While on the track “Down By The River” you have this urge to grab a cooler, bathing suit, and fishing pole to play hooky all day like Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer. On the title track “Take Your Time” Ben’s guitar solo rocks this number to the point where that’s the one thing that stands out..WOW…this man can play a guitar. Here’s a small taste of “Take Your Time.”
Lately I’ve been on a kick for ethnic sounds and find myself drawn to songs of this nature so on the final track “Burn It To the Ground” I was immediately drawn in to the sultry song with the Latin flair to it. Not only does it showcase the songwriting talents of Ben, it also showcases the amazing talent of Ben’s backup musicians with the percussion and keyboards, while his guitar solo evoked a feeling of being in a small cantina listening to the mariachi band serenade me. Only thing missing was my cerveza. Over all, once I listened to the Take Your Time EP, I couldn’t help feeling happy, upbeat, with an admiration for Ben. I was curious to see who and what had influenced him over time to bring us to the point where this mix of music originated from within. So as Ben toured the world with Lionel Richie through Australia, Asia, and many countries, he so graciously took the time to answer a few questions for me and the audience to get to know him better.
Kathy Stockbridge: So let’s begin this journey and share with me some insight to how it all began. When did you know that music was your destiny? You share how you began as a young adult jamming in the basement to Led Zeppelin tunes, but did you also participate in music through grade/high school also? Garage bands? Marching Bands? Was a formal education in music helpful to your understanding of the craft?
Ben Mauro: I played French Horn in middle school, and was All-County Band and Orchestra. Then I took a break from music for a while, until my dad brought home an electric guitar he had trash-picked while out running one day. That’s where it started, and I’ve been playing since I was 16. I had a garage band in high school ,and we played in the school talent show and at a couple of parties. That was really it.
My formal education was mostly with Rick Balestra, a private jazz instructor, that still teaches and performs around Syracuse. I studied with Rick for two or three years – he really opened my eyes to a lot of different types of music and it made a huge difference. I was mostly playing Southern Rock up until that point. Plus going to OCC for classical guitar really helped a lot – learning technique and how to read music. My instructor there was Joe Jewel. He left Syracuse to go to Los Angeles and now plays on “Dancing With The Stars.”
KS: As a parent I support my children in anything they wish to do, no matter how risky it may be as I feel when you love what you do, it’s not even a job, it’s a lifestyle. Did your family support you like this as well? Do you come from a musical family?
BM: The short answer is no, I don’t come from a musical family. A couple of my cousins were kind of musical – one played guitar and one had long hair. But the rest of my family are all teachers. My dad started the rugby team in Syracuse, so I was surrounded by rugby players growing up. I was always hanging around athletes, not musicians. They still know how to party, though! Really, I’m very lucky because nobody in the family knew much about music. My dad said if I could make it my job and make a living doing it, we support you. And they did – still do.
KS: You share how you took off for NYC to for a “street musical education”. As a starving artist, do share some experiences that defined in which direction you ventured. We know you gravitated towards the music scene in Greenwich Village at Café Wha? Were there other venues you played that held special meaning? Types of music that helped you learn the business more so than had you just hit the tour scene?
BM: What I tell up and coming artists all the time is that they have to work – hard. Before I got the Lionel Richie gig, I was a freelance musician playing around the circuit in NYC for years. I paid my dues and at the time that I got the Lionel audition I was playing in ten different bands. I used to say “Yes” to every call I got. It was a badge of honor in our circle of friends to see who could play the most nights in a row without taking a night off. It would usually be about 35-40 nights straight of playing before I would take one night off and then go back at it. Sometimes that was two gigs a night –three sets in two different bars! We would play one gig then drive into NYC to start our second gig at 1am and then play sometimes until 4am. But that is really what helped me keep my name out there – just keep going and going. And playing in all different kinds of bands. I got the experience in Jazz, Funk, Rock, Latin. Even if I wasn’t sure I could do it when the call came in, I would say yes and then make sure to learn. You can’t just play one style of music, even if it is your favorite. Learn as much as you can and play as much as you can.
KS: We all are inspired by other greats along the way. Share with us some of these influences that shaped your musical style and steered you towards the craft you do today? Teachers, mentors, bands, sounds…who and what has shaped the sound we hear today on “Take Your Time”?
BM: My favorite band growing up was the Allman Brothers Band – that kind of Southern Rock type band. Learning all the different styles helped me figure it out along the way, but my all time favorite is a guitar player named Warren Haynes.
KS: On this timeline, please share with us some of your musical moments beginning at Shifty’s and carrying on through to your world-wide tours with artists such as Lionel Richie, Don Felder, John Fogerty, Kelly Clarkson, and so many other great musicians along the way.
BM: The thing with Shifty’s is, that is where I first met Delmar Breland. He was playing bass and I went up and started talking to him. My first band was with Delmar, Ricky Chisholm, and my good friend Paulie Cerra. And that all happened because of Shifty’s. Ricky loves the Commodores and we played all kinds of those songs. Which really helped out a lot when it came to my current job. Delmar was also a big help to me because he and this other dude named Sugarfoot are the ones who really taught me how to play that kind of funky rhythm guitar. Here I was, this long-haired white kid from the country and these two big guys took me under their wing and taught me how to really play. That is why I am working today – that funky R & B guitar skill has served me well.
It kind of goes with a story about Lionel, too. After I had played a couple of gigs just filling in for his main guitar player he made some changes and he fired everyone in his band except the drummer and sax player. I had to try out again too, and at first the new musical director didn’t want to hire me. He told me later he was thinking who is this surfer looking dude in here, but it was Lionel who said to him, “Naah, give him a chance – he’s funky.” So if I hadn’t hung out with Delmar and Sugarfoot, or learned all those Commodores songs with Ricky…
KS: In between, what are some “a ha” moments that you have had?
BM: Probably watching the first season of American Idol and then getting a call to play in the band for the tour and backing up Kelly Clarkson. She was really great to work with – and then doing TV shows with her. Getting a call from Don Felder from the Eagles asking me to be his guitar player in his solo band and then playing the Hotel California harmony guitar solo on stage with him. That was a WOW moment. Auditioning in John Fogerty’s garage and getting the job as his guitar player and background singer. That was pretty surreal. He asked me if I knew any country! And pretty much every time I get onstage with Lionel and he looks me in the eye while he is singing his ass off!
KS: As I previewed the new songs on Take Your Time EP, one thing definitely jumped out at me, and that is that you are very versatile in your styles. Many times you will listen to an album and get a flavor of similarity in all the songs, however on this album, you get a wonderful variety of genres, musical instruments, and moods.
BM: I think this goes back to my days in NYC where I had to play all those different styles of music. Now that I’m an artist and write my own stuff, that is all coming out. It just feels comfortable and comes naturally to go from one style to the next. I don’t set out to write in a specific style – it just comes out.
KS: And I must add they go together extremely well. They have a common theme to them and a positivity.
BM: I’m happy to make music that makes people feel good instead of all down and dark.
KS: Talk with me about the making of this album and the songs on it. What do you want the listener to take away from this album?
BM: Uplifting. I want people to feel good and positive.
KS: What was the creative process, the inspiration, and share some of the moments in the making of the album cuts. Do you come up with lyrics and immediately reach for the closest paper? Were there melodies in your mind you came up with and then put the lyrics to them?
BM: The music usually comes first and then I write the lyrics as I play the tune. I don’t write it down very often – just start playing. Sometimes I will record things on my phone so I don’t forget an idea. Some of the new songs were written in the area. “Down By The River” was inspired by something my dad said when we were all on a family vacation. He just said one thing and it clicked – the song came from that. And I wrote “Take Your Time” sitting at my parents kitchen table.
KS: Do you collaborate on any of the songs? Share with us the band and how you chose the instruments to accompany the music.
BM: I do most of the writing and then my producing partner Gary Davenport comes in to collaborate on some of them. He does some arranging and polishes the songs up. Makes them more focused – just better. The band is the 13 Curves Band, Oscar Seaton and Gary Davenport. 13 Curves was my rock band from a few years ago. We played together for a while and then it kind of morphed into me as a solo with them playing for me when I recorded. Gary is also from Syracuse and I played with him way back before I left for New York. I first met Oscar touring with Lionel – he has been Lionel’s drummer for 15 years. He also plays with jazz guitarist George Benson and a bunch of other great artists.
It’s also cool because Paulie Cerra, my old bandmate is still one of my best friends. He plays saxophone with me on “She’s Beautiful.” That’s another Syracuse connection.
KS: Do you play multiple instruments in the recordings?
BM: I play guitar, dobro and banjo on this one.
KS: As I mentioned above I have noticed that you are a very upbeat and positive individual and that shines through your music and your show Let’s Go! With Ben Mauro. How did you come up with the idea for Let’s Go! and share with us how long you have been documenting your adventures?
BM:Let’s Go! came from my dad telling me I had to go out and see things while I was on tour. I kept telling him I was too tired after having been on a 12 hour flight, but he would say things like, “The Tower of London is only 20 minutes from your hotel.” I finally went and took some pictures and posted a blog. I started to do it for my family – so they could know what I was doing while I was on tour and stuff. But people really liked it so it expanded. I got an HD camera and started to do the videos. The very first one I did officially was the Great Wall of China and it’s been almost 4 years.
KS: What are some of your most favorite places and you’ve been able to share with viewers along the way? I also want to commend you for featuring band mates and other musicians along the way as well. It’s great to not only see these amazing countries and places, but also to see behind the scenes of the rock and roll way of life with sound checks and traveling and all of the things that accompany this lifestyle.
BM: Some of my favorite places are Morocco, Brazil and the Great Wall of China. It is very important for me to show the life of working musicians. I say that in every episode. What we do is really so different from what most people think. It’s a great job and I’m very lucky to get to do a lot of really cool stuff, like seeing places I might never see. But it is not all rock and roll glamour. We are on planes. A lot. We are in hotels. A lot. It’s a job and we work hard.
KS: As a fun way of getting to know the musicians and give the readers an insight into their personalities…would love if you would play along in a “Social Speed Round” of questions, some very random questions for you to answer. And…”Let’s Go! With Ben Mauro!”
1. You’re flipping through the channels on TV and come across this movie or show that you always stop on!!! No matter how many times you’ve seen it!!! – Million Dollar Baby or Anchorman.
2. You come across a restaurant out-of-state that claims to have the best original NY food…you think THIS has to be on the menu to even be considered a NY restaurant? –
3. I meet a lot of great individuals in my line of work, some that have left me at a loss of words. This is the person that leaves you speechless and at a loss of words when you finally meet them? – Greg Allman.
4. Time to get away for the touring for a while. Where is your “Happy Place”? – Zuma Beach, Malibu, California.
5. You’re at Disneyland/World…you only have time for one ride because you have to do a sound check and perform immediately after…you choose Roller Coaster/Bumper Cars/Sky Ride or Ferris Wheel? – Roller Coaster.
6. You get an offer to be a featured star on a cable television show but you can only do one..you choose Dancing with the Stars/ Man vs. Food/ Off Limits? – Man vs. Food
7. Dream collaboration – Greg Allman again.
8. Favorite board game? – Yahtzee.
9. If you weren’t a musician what was your plan B? – When I was a kid I wanted to be a professional athlete – soccer player, but never really had a plan B. Since I was 16, I always wanted to be a musician and I loved it so much that I never thought about doing anything else. Even when I was dirt poor in New York, I never thought I would do this for a few years and then get out.
10. Your guilty pleasure? – Spy and adventure novels. Like Lee Child or the James Bond books.
As you can see, Ben Mauro is a fun, positive, upbeat type of person. He works extremely hard to be the best he can be, and he is appreciative of his beginnings and those along the way. Syracuse is honored to have Ben Mauro return home to launch his new EP Take Your Time and we urge everyone to take the time to stop down to Shifty’s Bar & Grill on May 7th to welcome Ben home. Ben will be joined by SAMMY award-winning performers Phoenix Eleven and special guest Ricky Chisholm. Tickets are being sold ahead of time and can be purchased at http://bpt.me/622514 There are limited tickets available so I urge you to not wait, but buy in advance to guarantee to be part of this event.
On March 15, 2014, Jim Brickman celebrated a monumental achievement in his career; 20years to the date, he released his first album, No Words. Twenty years later, Jim Brickman stepped foot on stage for the first time at the Stanley Center for the Arts, bringing along more than 33 best-selling albums, dozens of collaborations with the top artists in the business, numerous awards and achievements, and multiple projects under his belt to share with the audience. Utica was thankfully chosen for his special occasion and the performance shared by all was truly heartfelt.
Jim Brickman 20th Anniversary Celebration
Opening the evening with “The Promise,” a musical piece from his Simple Things album, his beautiful playing drew in the audience and set the mood for the evening with a light and airy feeling. He shared moments throughout of how the music came to be, joked about things that occurred over the years, and by the end of the evening, it was as though it was a small room filled with friends and family, celebrating a very special anniversary. Below, Jim shares how he came to record his first album, and you see how fate sometimes plays a hand in the avenues taken in life.
Jim was joined throughout the evening by special guests Anne Cochran, a childhood friend from his hometown in Cleveland, Ohio, and George Perris, a young man originally from Greece who has been performing worldwide since the age of 14. Jim shared childhood stories of how he and Cochran became acquainted. His memories and admiration for her still hold true today as they have remained friends and co-workers now for several decades. This was apparent as they bantered back and forth with each other throughout the evening like brother and sister. Cochran has collaborated on several numbers and shows with Jim, of which they performed one of their most popular of the evening, “After All These Years.” Perris was then introduced and impressed the audience with not only his knowledge of music and amazing talent, but his ability to speak multiple languages as well; four in total. Joining Jim onstage for multiple numbers and a “selfie” of the three of them, Perris amused and enchanted the audience.
Anne Cochran and George Perris at Meet & Greet
I have always been a big fan of Jim Brickman over the years as he has written two of my favorite songs of all time: “Valentine” and “The Gift.” I have listened to him on the weekends on his radio show, and it was nice to hear some personal stories on his road to success. His influences from Jim Henson and those from Walt Disney effected his love of music and the styles he would perfect over the years. I have to say that his performances of the Muppets and Disney tunes were my favorites of the evening; perhaps because they were light-hearted and fun, perhaps because I knew the tunes such as “It’s Not Easy Being Green”, “Rainbow Connection”, or “When You Wish Upon a Star”, or perhaps because they were some of my favorite tunes growing up and they brought me back to a time when life was simple. It was nice to connect with a musician on a level of commonality, even if it’s just a love of the same type of music.
For those who may not realize this, Jim has offered his musical talents to numerous shows, commercials, and events. One event he spoke of was the 2014 Sochi Olympics. As he played the numbers he wrote for the Olympics, he joked that some music is often used as background to narrations and sometimes for sad stories even. As humble as he is, he still gets excited though to hear his music when it plays out in public places. One such moment was as he was on hold with a credit card company. Upon calling in to fix a credit card issue, he waited patiently, listening to his music, until the customer service operator came on the line. As impressed as he was with himself, unfortunately the person on the other end didn’t share the same excitement as he joked about listening to himself on hold. A more recent occurrence happened as he was traveling through an airport and heard his music playing while he took a pit stop. Wanting to share his excitement with others, he thought better of it as perhaps that wasn’t the time or place to share that information. It was stories such as these that bring such huge performers and stars into a perspective that is relatable with their audiences. Again, the stories, jokes, and insights are what make Jim Brickman the star he is today and continue to build the relationship he fosters with his followers. His talent and generosity provide opportunity to give back to his audiences worldwide, while his appreciation and gratitude are genuine.
As mentioned above, Jim’s career has garnered multiple albums with multiple hits over the years. His musical compositions and songwriting skills have elevated him to a level of expertise as one of the greats of our era. At the same time, it was nice to see such an approachable, easy-going, and humorous individual on stage and in person. He goes out of his way to remain approachable to his fans by sponsoring cruises and parties. This years event, Brickman’s Bash, will be held in Cleveland, Ohio on July 17th-20th.
Although this was the first time Jim Brickman visited The Stanley Center for the Arts, I have a feeling it will become a permanent stop on each tour.
As Central New York continues to celebrate their week long St. Patrick’s Day traditions, it was only fitting to host the beautiful Women of Ireland at the magnificent Stanley Center for the Arts. While not all of the Women of Ireland could make it, they did send some very special ladies and gentlemen to represent and share their traditions of music and dance across the pond here in America.
And what a fabulous production it was. To state that the musicians and dancers were outstanding is just an understatement of their amazing talents and effortless delivery. The lovely O’Neill sisters, Fiona, Naomi, and Evangeline, are no strangers to the music industry as they have roots in music both here in America and across the pond in Ireland. They grew up in Ireland in the County Kerry, an area where coastline and natures beauty surrounded them. Studying music, dance, and theater at an early age fueled in them a passion to share their voices and talents with audiences worldwide, and after spending some time in America with the likes of stars such as Bruno Mars, Tom Cruise and Miley Cyrus, their homeland began to beckon them home where to our great fortune, they became involved with Women of Ireland.
Mix the angelic voices with the light and airy steps of Kelly McDonnell and you have a perfect combination. Kelly McDonnell hails from County Tipperary and at the age of 3 began dancing with the Fleming Ball Academy. With several amazing championship wins under her belt by the age of 16, Kelly turned professional and traveled the world performing for huge audiences, select celebrities, and shows such as Michael Flatley’s “Celtic Tiger”. Her amazing spring and effortless ease entrances those who are lucky enough to see her perform.
How could this show get any better you ask? Well just add in Anthony Fallon. Anthony began his dancing career at the early age of 3 also, under the tutelage of Terry Gillan and Philip Owens in Dublin Ireland, and at the age of 6 began competing. Anthony was World Irish Dancing Solo Champion from 2000-2004, and with numerous titles under his belt he began touring. While working in America he was invited to tour with Riverdance: The Show, where after two years he was offered a principal position. Anthony is the Principal Choreographer for the Irish dancing you see in the Women of Ireland, and I must compliment his magnificently creative, and impeccably timed choreography you see through each and every number in the production.
Rounding out the ensemble I would be remiss to not mention how absolutely enjoyable were the performances by both Katie Shaughnassey and Maureen Devereaux. These young ladies float across the stage performing their slips, reels, and jigs as though clouds moving to the music. And rounding out the cast was a band of musicians who are top notch in their crafts. On uileann pipes was Dan Callaghan, on bodhran was Andrew Meyer, on guitar was Searn Ernest, Katie Greenan was on fiddle, and on drums was Renato Milone.
For all that attended the show on March 11th they were thoroughly entertained with both traditional celtic tunes such as Danny Boy and Red Haired Mary, and more contemporary tunes such as Josh Groban’s “You Lift Me Up”, Original Castle’s “One Tin Soldier”, and John Lennon’s “Imagine”. They were treated to the traditional celtic instruments of the uleann pipes, the bodhran, and of course the fiddle. As the dancers joined them on stage audience members couldn’t help but tap their toes and clap along.
This production took every detail in mind. I have been part of many shows and this one was an outstanding artistic production. The light show and sound match the talent it was highlighting and all together was seamlessly carried out.
Although all the women of Ireland could not make it to The Stanley Center for the Arts, it was truly our gift that they shared this cast and crew with Central New York making this pre St. Patrick’s Day show the perfect way to begin the holiday week.
What do you get when you cross the Birdseed Bandits with Floodwood? You get one electric foot stomping, feel good, jam session. How could this get even better? Hold it at one of the best venues in town, the Mohawk Valley Community College’s (MVCC) IT Auditorium. The space is designed with top notch acoustics, state of the art sound and lighting, and not a bad seat in the house.
Floodwood at MVCC
The show began with Adam Ludemann, Seth Becker, and Nash Robb, the trio that makes up the Birdseed Bandits, setting the bar high with their unique acoustic sounds with a strong banjo, guitar, percussion, and bass tempo. This sound reverberates into your soul and the unique composition can’t help but make you tap your feet to the beat. They’ve been hailed as Punk/Americana or “Punkicana,” Folk/Rock, Adirondack Folk, “Foot stomping” Folk/Punk-Rock, or Alternative Americana. No matter what genre they are categorized within, they are definitely talented and a feel good band.
Floodwood took the stage immediately after and from the minute they walked out on stage you could feel the love and energy from their fans. While the audience during the opening performance remained in their seats clapping their hands and tapping their toes to the songs, the minute Floodwood took the stage these same fans rushed to the edge of the stage to be right there in front to dance and stomp along. This tale tell sign is a foreshadowing of what is to come for those who have never been part of a band’s shows. I must add how absolutely wonderful this venue is set up to accommodate not only those who wish to be part of the performance by dancing and singing along up front, but those who wish to remain seated during the performance without obstructions. Kudos to the venue as the design truly accommodates their audiences and bands alike.
Floodwood didn’t disappoint as usual. Their full set list of amazing creative sounds entranced the audience and whether fast paced or melancholy, the audience was mesmerized throughout the whole show. But it’s the engagement with the crowd that makes them stand out as top performers. It’s the peek into their personalities that engages the audiences. You can see this clearly. It’s the amazing talent and experience of true greats such as Al and Vinnie that set the bar. It’s the interactions experienced with Nick playing the banjo or fiddle and Jason with his mandolin among the crowd that makes them part of the show. And it’s Zach strumming the base one minute and then the next thing you know he’s down on the carpet doing pushups (which I must add were very impressive). It is this peek into their personalities that only makes their audiences love them more and engages them as their Floodwood family. This is true entertainment. This is what makes them stand out.
As a newly developed fan of Floodwood, I look forward to their upcoming shows this festival season, and want to spread the word to those who may not have seen them previously. Floodwood is a “MUST SEE” show. Check them out their tour schedule; you can thank me later for introducing you to them.
As award season is upon us, it is our pleasure to share with you the very talented recipients of the 2014 SAMMY Awards that were handed out March 7th at the Palace Theatre in Syracuse, NY. The SAMMYs were founded in 1993 by Frank Malfitano. Groups and artists are invited to submit their work for consideration and recognition. Categories span multiple genres of music, and area musicians and artists are recognized and celebrated in the number one musical event in the Syracuse area.
SAMMY Awards 2014 Photo by Luaps Lens
As award shows go, this one is no different boosting a red carpet event, live acts, and festivities celebrating the creative arts in the Syracuse area. This year’s performers included the likes of Mike McKay Band, Brownskin Band, Pale Green Stars, The Goonies, and the Flashcubes to name a few.
Pale Green Stars Perform at the SAMMY Awards – Photo by Luaps Lens
would like to extend our congratulations to all the nominees and recipients of this years awards.
Founder’s Award: The Madisons
Best Pop: Sir Magnus
Best Country: Mick Fury & Midnight Moonshine
Best Jazz: Jesse Collins Quartet
Best Hip-Hop: Tall Bucks
Best Blues: Mark Doyle (“Pushin’”)
Best R&B: Erika Lovette
Best Metal: Era
Best Americana (tie): Ruddy Well Band; Loren Barrigar and Mark Mazengarb
Best Alternative: 4 Point 0
Best Rock: Elephant Mountain
Best Recording Other Styles: Duo L’Adour
People’s Choice for Best Artist: Ruddy Well Band
People’s Choice for Best Venue: Shifty’s
Brian Bourke Award for Best New Artist: Rabbit in the Rye
The Adirondacks are best known in the winter time as a destination for skiers, snow borders, ice fishing, and snowmobilers. So it was a pleasant surprise on my visit to Oak Mountain, in Lake Pleasant, NY on February 22nd to see how they have incorporated an entire music series for all of their patrons and locals to enjoy once the sun went down on the mountains, featuring Cosmic Jackson.
This is becoming a trend we see with other ski resorts as well, such as Woods Valley, who have taken to offering live music throughout the winter season for both visitors and locals to enjoy. I think it is a brilliant way to feature wonderful local talent and reach an audience of all ages that may not necessarily venture out otherwise for live music.
Starting off their winter music series at Oak Mountain was the Willie Playmore Band, followed by Jason and Nick from Floodwood, local favorites The Birdseed Bandits, and Marshall Stewart’s acoustical show, as well as many other talented artists. Excited to see this evening’s featured band, Cosmic Jackson, I settled in to a packed audience of many patrons who I had seen earlier on the slopes, as well as some new faces of snowmobilers that stopped for some food, drinks, and a good time. I was happily surprised at this band’s amazing musicality and harmony on the two guitars, bass, and drums. Playing such an eclectic set list of music, the dance floor didn’t stop all night. Cover songs varied from Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition”, to Bob Dylan & Old Crow Medicine Show’s “Wagon Wheel”, to Aerosmith’s “Sweet Emotion”. What really got the crowd going though was their cover of “What I Got” by Sublime and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Give Me Three Steps”. Again, the variety floored me as they were able to reach the entire audience with music they loved from genres and generations across the board.
It’s great to see small communities such as Lake Pleasant/Speculator thriving this winter with tourism due to the cooperating weather, but what makes me even happier is to see them offering amazing live performances all season long for everyone to enjoy.
On February 8th at Bridgewater’s Club Aqua, SLUG took the stage for all those brave enough to weather the cold. It didn’t take long though to warm up the crowd with their groovy, bluesy sound. Reminiscent of a mix of Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers, Willie Nelson, and Bob Dylan, SLUG has taken these inspirational sounds and created a sound uniquely their own. This feel good, easy going music features Stephen “Fletch” Fletcher on lead vocal and rhythm, Irwin Winkler on lead guitar and back up vocals; Chris “The Kraken” Dunn on bass and back up vocals; Mike Finley on keyboards and back up vocals, and Adam Morgan on drums.
Despite frigid temperatures in Syracuse February 7th the city was on fire! Not only because our beloved Orangemen were setting the town on fire and leading their division in basketball, but because The Red Hot Chilli Pipers were setting the stage on fire at the Syracuse Palace Theater.
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
Opening the show in true Celtic Style, the Syracuse Scottish Pipe Band began the evening warming up the crowd with traditional sounds and a spectacular drummers light show. If you haven’t seen these folks, they are a band of approximately 36 pipers who have played locally and competitively since 1973. Truly a Syracuse gem and the perfect way to begin a show featuring the Pipers.
Syracuse Scottish Pipe Band
Second to take the stage was Hobo Graffiti, a local rock band, who gave the audience a taste of the rock and roll side of what the evening had in store. With Kris Wiechmann on vocals and acoustic guitar; Tommy Matkowski on 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars; Chuck Kahl playing upright bass; Kevin Dean playing bass, snare, cowbell, tambourine, and ride cymbal; and Heather Jones finishing out the group with vocals and guitar, this band gave the audience a taste of what they have deemed as their own style of rockabilly and dirty rock. Their strong vocals and amazing musical talents once again confirmed what a mix of musical talent is here locally in Central New York.
Hobo Graffiti
Under the cover of darkness, The Red Chilli Pipers took the room by storm with the opening song “Insomnia” demonstrating just what was in store for the evening. Traditional bagpiping music was not on the set list, instead the evening would be more than two full hours of the most non-traditional bagpiping you would imagine with the perfect bass, keyboards, guitar, percussion, and sound & lighting to accompany. I personally love when bands begin with a strong foot stomping number to bring the crowd to their feet first and foremost and trust me when I tell you, this was truly foreshadowing for what was to come.
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
They did not let off all night with constant playing and sound offs between bagpipers Willie Armstrong, who when not piping is saving homes and lives as a fireman; Craig Munro who has been recently featured playing in Disney’s movie Brave; and the crowd favorite Gordon “Dougie” McCance who constantly wins the pipe off as the others claim it’s not based on talent but on the cuteness factor during their “Tag Team Jig”. We also saw spectacular drum battles between Grant Cassidy who is referred to often as the as having the fastest hands in Scotland on the snare drums (aka the Ferrarri of drums), Steven Black on full drums, and Paul Jennings on cajon and bongo drums. These musicians are top notch and true performers giving the show of their life each and every night.
The music was a mix of their own and amazing covers of songs such as Coldplay’s “Fix You” and “Clocks”, Kings of Leon “Use Somebody”, ZZ Top’s “Gimme All Your Lovin”, War’s “Low Rider”, Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars”, and Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing”. At one point and time they even had the whole audience up participating during C&C Muisc Factory’s “Everybody Dance Now”. With Alan McGeoch on bass, Gary O’Hagan on keyboards, and Ben Holloway on electric guitar the pipers and percussionists had the perfect accompaniment on each and every number.
It was however the encore number though of their newest release Avicci’s “Wake Me Up”, and crowd favorite Queen’s “We Will Rock You” that showcased each and every one of them as true artists and performers.
Syracuse could have been -50 degrees and these guys still would have melted every girls heart and heated up the stage like only The Red Hot Chilli Pipers can. I can’t even imagine on a hot summer day how anyone would survive one of their shows.
