NYS Music 20​14

Category: Bluegrass/Country

  • Hearing Aide: The Doobie Brothers’ ‘Southbound’ – Rock With a Country Twist

    The Doobie Brothers Southbound features some of country music’s legendary performers such as Vince Gill, Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, and Sara Evans, with some of today’s most talented newcomers, such as The Zac Brown Band, Hunter Hayes, Chris Young, Casey James, Tyler Farr, Jerrod Niemann, Sudano Ramirex of Johnnyswim, and Charlie Worsham. Without even hearing one note on the album, I was anxious to see what I had in store with this who’s who of guest appearances.

    When I heard that The Doobie Brothers were making a greatest hits album and invited some of today’s most talented country singers to accompany them, I was over the moon thrilled. I immediately flashed back on one of my favorite albums, Common Thread, from 1993, where country music greats came together to record some of The Eagles most loved tunes of the 70’s. There is just something about the rock of the 70’s and today’s country music that blends the two perfectly into a classic sound.

    The album starts out with “Black Water” (with Zac Brown Band); this has to be one of my favorite all time Doobie Brothers tunes. I can think of no other country group I would love to accompany them today on the song. Always thought Zac’s voice was reincarnated from the 70’s rock era, a James Taylor sound for sure. The Zac Brown Band’s southern laidback sound combines perfectly together with the bluesy groove of the music and lyrics to deliver an over the top remix that possibly is better than the original. “Black Water”, originally the B-side of the release of ”Another Park, Another Sunday”, was written and performed by Patrick Simmons, who once again nails the tune confirming any doubt that B-sides were most definitely worth the listen.

    Tom Johnson’s tune, “Listen to the Music”, features Blake Shelton accompanying on lyrics and Hunter Hayes on guitar. This song, one of the first big hits of The Doobie Brothers career, remains a staple as an encore song at all of their live shows. Originally written as a tribute to peace at a time of influx in the world, the idea of all those in power were to take a moment to just come together and listen to the music, a universal language, perhaps peace could be attained; it sounds like a message that still holds true today. With Blake Shelton’s strong lyrics accompanying Tom Johnson on vocals, the duo deliver a one-two punch that sends the message as the newcomer Hunter Hayes shreds the guitar like the pro he is. This rockabilly sound sends a message still today that no matter what generation hears it or performs it, the message is timeless and the concept of a universal language of peace is attainable if we could all just find a common ground in music.

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unNwrc03LH4]

    The next track on the new album, “What a Fool Believes”, is a Grammy Award winning hit of the Doobie Brothers and happens to be one of the only non-disco number one hits of 1979. Written by Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, this commercial hit was an example of how The Doobie Brothers were able to maintain their own unique sound while accomplishing commercial success during a time where rock and roll was not in the forefront on commercial radio. With Sara Evans accompanying Michael McDonald on “What a Fool Believes”, this track is yet another perfect pairing of musicians showcasing and blending together their voices in perfect unison.

    For country music lovers, Toby Keith is the epitome of a regular guy that pulls no punches. His in your face, this is what I am, and this is what I represent personality is the perfect pairing for The Doobie Brothers on “Long Train Runnin”. It could be the harmony, the rocking guitar, the awesome harmonica, or the upbeat melody, but this song, like Toby, pulls no punches and delivers the perfect example of timeless classic rock and the perfect combination of country music today and how rock and roll of the 70’s has influenced so many country artists today.

    Chris Young, one of today’s up-and-coming country artists, who won the competition ‘Nashville’, is tearing up the charts with hits and as he accompanies The Doobie Brothers on “China Grove”, it’s evident why he is one of today’s country greats. As he sings together with The Doobie Brothers, I can barely tell where they end and he begins as they seamlessly harmonize on this 1973 hit. I must point here that on this song especially, it is a shining example of how absolutely talented The Doobie Brothers are in their songwriting and instrumental composition. On this number, it is as though each instrument is a feature instrument, however together they are a harmony. There are moments that the bass is strong and the underlying bass and percussion take center stage. Then there are parts where you hear keyboards foremost in the spotlight. When you think you can’t get any better, they break out in a guitar solo. I love this song as it’s upbeat and catchy, but I truly appreciate this song as its composition is epic.

    The next track, written and performed with Love & Theft, “Take It To the Streets”, was another example of great pairing. Michael has a very distinctive voice, and the vocal accompaniment by Eric & Stephen was spot on, together with some outstanding guitar accompaniment.

    For those of you unfamiliar with Casey James, he is the very talented country musician best known from American Idol’s ninth season. On “Jesus is Just Alright”, The Doobie Brothers version of the Arthur Reid Reynolds song, Casey’s amazing guitar abilities are emphasized. At one point in time, Casey was unsure of his ability to be able to play guitar again. Suffering major damage after a crippling motorcycle accident, Casey’s recovery is nothing short of a miracle. I find it refreshing as I realized how The Doobie Brothers were able to embrace their faith during a time where faith was questioned by many in the 70’s, and fitting this song was for Casey’s accompaniment.

    Another Tom Johnson song, this time he is joined by one of Country’s biggest stars, Brad Paisley on “Rocking Down the Highway”. is a feel good song written by Tom in the early Doobie Brothers days and just up Brad’s alley, as it features not only his amazing vocals, but also his talents on the guitar.

    “Take Me In Your Arms”, finds The Doobie Brothers joined by newcomer Tyler Farr.  With his raspy voice, the soulful sound of this R&B tune mixes perfectly with Tyler’s style of rock and delivered with heartfelt emotions that mixes country and rock to make the trifecta of musical composition.

    Joined by Jerrod Niemann on “South City Midnight Lady” and released on their third album The Captain and Me in 1973, this beautiful ballad is unique to the style of The Doobie Brothers, being melodic and slower paced than other hit songs.  However when it comes to love ballads, Jerrod Niemann is your man to deliver, and deliver they all did.

    For those of you not familiar yet with Johnnyswim, you will be in for a treat as Amanda Sudano Ramirex of Johnnys sings on their mega hit “You Belong to Me”.  And if that wasn’t enough, let’s just throw in a touch of Vince Gill’s guitar, who is one of the best musicians in Nashville, to really tear it up like no other can. Super sexy was this rendition of the song as Sudano accompanies Michael McDonald in this duet.

    Another newcomer is Charlie Worsham.  He’s one of those country performers that takes his musical ability and goes right out in the audience with his banjo/ganjo/guitar and makes you part of the song.  This is no different as he plays on “Nobody”, a perfect song for Charlie, and to close out this outstanding album.

    The Doobie Brothers
    The Doobie Brothers

    As I wrap up listening to this remarkable collaborative effort, I feel as though I am experiencing one of the greatest times in country music as we see those rock stars of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s becoming part of a new country experience.  With a basis in blues, jazz, rock, and bluegrass, this Southern rock style that was once indicative of the 1970’s is now becoming the trend in today’s country music.  You see many of these rock and country collaborations on CMT’s Crossroads. Their ability to pair the perfect rock group and country musician to cross perform songs of each other is truly one of my favorites. It’s the marriage of the best of both worlds into one spectacular sound. As most genres, it evolves, taking on new characteristics of other influences.  But one thing holds true.  Music is a common language to those on both sides of the microphone.  Tune in November 5 as The Doobie Brothers perform live at this years CMA Awards together with some of todays biggest country artists around.

    Key Tracks: Black Water, Long Train Running, You Belong To Me

  • Interview: Eric Paslay – Wise and Talented Beyond His Years

    As a journalist you do your best to maintain a level of objectivity when dealing with anyone you cover for a story.  You want to bring a story that is not only factual, but without a spin in one direction so that the reader can come to their own conclusions.  However sometimes you just can’t help yourself when you meet them in person.  This is what happened with me after speaking with Eric Paslay, and seeing him perform at Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill in Syracuse, September 20, 2014.  I was totally impressed by this young man.

    This would be the second time covering the musician for an event (Taste of Country Music Festival) and I was looking forward to both the performance and our scheduled phone interview.  Many times these interviews happen to be right before a show, or in between sound checks.  With such a busy schedule, when I received the call around 10am, it was a nice surprise.

    Eric Paslay - Toby Keith's Syracuse
    Eric Paslay – Toby Keith’s Syracuse

    Kathy Stockbridge:  Hi, is this Eric? How are you?  Thank you so much for agreeing to do this interview with NYS Music.com.

    Eric Paslay:  Good Morning.

    KS: Well Good Morning to you as well!  You’re up early!!  I didn’t expect you to be up so early.

    EP: Oh yeah, we get up early.  I would rather be awake for life.

    KS:  Welcome to NYS Music and again thank you for agreeing to do this interview for our readers. You’ve been on quite a whirlwind of a tour this year…talk to me a little about the highlights of the tour and some of your favorite moments.

    EP:  I think this has been the busiest touring year of my life, and it’s been cool. We go from town to town and see the same hearts and souls in each town but with a little bit of different backdrop which is kinda cool. I like getting off the bus and trying to wander around town if there is one. A lot the fairs and festivals that we play though there is not a lot around it other than the fair.  Still, I try to walk around there if I can. I think the coolest thing though is this year is the first year I’ve had a hit as an artist, which I’ve been working towards my whole career, and I’m glad people are singing along to songs that I have written and now to songs that I’ve recorded myself.

    KS:  That’s awesome…I often wondered if you have the opportunity to get off the bus and get out there to meet the people and take advantage of  places you are visiting. It’s nice to know you are able to take advantage of  that and getting to know the areas you are touring as well.  I actually covered your show at The Taste of Country Festival which was a scream…it was my first country festival I’ve been too…was totally off the wall, with more than 40,000 people.

    EP:  Yeah..that was a cool show!

    KS:  ..and was a lot of fun. Was that the first time you had been up this way to Central NY?

    EP:  No I’ve been up there before…That was my first time at The Taste of Country, but I have been touring around the country for about four years now, but I’m getting to play the big shows now.

    KS:  Well you did a great job..I really enjoyed your set.

    EP:  Thanks.

    KS:  And I’m looking forward to seeing you this Saturday at Toby Keith’s, and I do believe I’ll get to see you again in November when you visit my local area at the Utica Aud with Dierks Bentley and his Riser Tour.

    EP:  That will be a good tour!

    KS:  You have a huge country music fan base here in this area….do you see similarities with people in the different communities you come to, or differences as you travel around?

    EP:  You know, what I’ve learned is around the US people are taught to listen to you differently.  Some people are there for the party, and they still love you being there…it doesn’t matter if your George Straight on the stage.. they’re not really watching you or listening to much..they are, but they aren’t.  Then there’s other parts of the country where they’re just as quiet as can be with their arms crossed staring at you.  You not quite sure what they are thinking, but they are soaking it up and loving it.  I think that’s the coolest thing..sometimes a lot of new artists on the road think “wow, that crowd hated us”, then they go to the meet and greet line and see what they really thought.  As the fans tell you that was the best show ever, they don’t even know how to react.  It’s also really cool to go out there and start understanding your listeners.  Not everyone listens the same way…that’s what makes us as unique which is a pretty cool thing. And it’s not a bummer when people go all nuts also!

    KS:  Do you feed off the audience when that happens?

    EP:  Oh absolutely, I don’t think a football player isn’t going to run as fast as he can and hit as hard as he can with an empty stadium.

    KS: Absolutely!

    EP:  It’s nice when the crowd is cheering for you.

    KS:  I personally love your writing style. You mentioned once in another interview that you try to leave some hope in all songs even the sad ones.  Is writing cathartic to you? Do you write to tell a message, or get feelings out, or what is your writing process?

    EP:  You know, a lot of times I try to have messages like you will get through this, and it’s okay to feel this way, and also let’s just rock it tonight.  I tend not to write selfishly.   Music is a very influential thing, and I hope I get to stick around and influence people for good for a while.

    KS: I predict you will.  You have written a lot of songs that have been recorded by others.  Talk to me a little about your inspirations, and do they play a part in your writing style and your performance?

    EP:  I tended to just listen to music that I dug, and if it sounded good,I turned it up.  Somehow God blessed me with the ability to write songs.  To be able to walk in a room with nothing and not even an idea, as I write so much, you walk in and start playing a melody and you know within a few hours a songs written.  The cool thing about a song is you never know where it’s going to end up. I’ve learned through a lot of my other songs being recorded, that some times it’s not up to us how a song gets heard, and especially how a song gets famous.  It can be frustrating if you try to make sense of it all.  Other than you swing the bat and sometimes people see the home run go over the fence, and sometimes you’re in the stadium alone.  And that’s alright.  You just keep swinging the bat, and maybe people will be around when you hit the home run.

    KS:   Well you are originally from Texas, the Austin area, which is hugely known as a musical mecca. Have you had an opportunity to perform in and around Austin?

    EP:  Yeah, its wild.  I wrote a song for the Eli Young Band called “Even If It Breaks Your Heart”, and the second verse is “downtown is where I used wander, old enough to get there, but too young to get inside”. That was kinda me and Austin, Texas.  I was 20 years old walking up and down 6th Street trying to get gigs for me and my band.  But, I couldn’t even get in to see the club owner because I wasn’t old enough to get in.  But we did play some shows around there.  I moved up to Nashville when I was 20 years old though, so I wasn’t a big part of the scene at all.  I was still trying to figure out who I was musically at that time as well.

    KS:  Now you had the opportunity to play at the Opry..talk to me a little about that, what was that like?

    EP:  It’s amazing!  I kinda lucked out the very first time I got to play the Opry was actually when it was at the Ryman Auditorium.  There’s actually two or three months where they have the Grand Ole Opry back at the Ryman Auditorium every year-round the holidays.  I got to play then, and maybe 5 or 6 times now since then. I’m actually playing again Tuesday night.  They are having a St. Jude show for raising money and awareness.  A my distant cousin, Brad Paisley, is going to be there.  I’ll actually get to talk to him on Tuesday.

    KS:  That is so awesome!

    EP:  I remember I was standing next to Ricky Skaggs the first time I played the Opry, and I was about to walk on and he said, “Are you nervous?”  I was like “Yeah man! I’m about to walk onto the Opry stage,and you’re Ricky Skaggs”.  It was a cool thing.  Darryl Worley was also playing that night, and I told him “Ricky kept asking if I was nervous, yeah I’m nervous”.  The cool thing is, I still get nervous…but in a good way, kinda.  When you’re out on the stage a lot, that kinda wears away and that’s a good thing.  So you’re having fun and not too shaky in front of people.  I  think when you play so many stages and then you come back to the Opry, you think about everyone I’ve ever looked up to has played here including rock artists and pop artists.  On the Ryman stage, especially where the Grand Ole Opry started.  Darryl said, “Man, if you’re not nervous on the Opry stage, your heart’s not in the right place.” So I try to make sure I’m a little nervous when I walk out on the Opry stage.

    KS:  I’m going to switch gears here for a second.  I learned a long time ago as I was doing some research for my first article on you that you are a graduate from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).  I actually grew up until 5th grade in Murfreesboro, TN where MTSU is. One day I’ll get back down there.  I remember it being a very community oriented school.

    EP:  Its built up a lot.

    KS:  Has it really?  I’m sure it has!!  Talk to me a little about your choice of schooling and MTSU and what brought you to choose MTSU, being from Texas.

    EP:  I wanted to be up near Nashville and they had a Recording Music Program and Record Industry Program.  I ended up doing a Music Business degree just so I could know what the business is about.  I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to work on the creative side of it.  I was hoping that would work out, and I’m glad it has.  So I chose MTSU because they had the Business Music Degree…

    KS:  Do you think getting your degree in music has helped to pave your path to where you are today, giving you more of an understanding of the ins and outs of the music business?

    EP:  When you know the basis of a business, and show up and talk to a professional you’ll actually learn something.  As opposed to just going  “You’re a music publisher?  How many books do you all sell?”   No..they don’t sell songs, they license songs and they don’t deal with books at all. Which happens a lot.  You have an intern come in or someone wanting an internship to get to hang around it,and they are asking how many songs you sell.  That’s the first thing you don’t say to a publisher.  They don’t sell songs…they always own them.  And it’s just learning little inside things like that about the business on the label side or the management side or any side of it.  When someone’s wanting to go into (the business)when you show up you know the very simple parts of their business.  That way you can talk about deeper things,and they might open up to teach you things that not everybody knows to help you in your career and just the understanding of how crazy the business can be.

    KS:  I give you a lot of credit learning the business from the bottom up, worked hard, and as I talk to you I know you will have a long career.  Any future goals or projects we can look forward to? And future collaborations?

    EP:  I’ve had some pretty cool collaborations this past year from Dionne Warwick, Kenny Rogers, Amy Grant,  and Sheryl Crow. I don’t know where I’ll go from there, but I’m always willing to collaborate and write and even sing with someone.  We’re not done with this album, but we are looking towards the making of the next sophomore album.  I am just kinda going through and rediscovering songs I wrote a long time ago.  So, I’m doing that, and writing a lot still.  Just looking forward to making the next album, and having at least a couple more singles come off this album.

    KS:  We’re looking forward to that too!  I do something I call a social speed round to let my readers know a little bit about the performers outside of the regular questions.  Are you willing to play along? It’s painless..I promise!!

    EP:  Sure.

    KS:  Okay..you’re on the road..you see this and make your tour bus pull off every time.

    EP:  Antique store. Well, not every time…there’s a lot of them.

    KS:  Fill in the blank…On the tour, my band mates think I’m a _________.

    EP:  Um…I don’t know what they think of me….haha…Good Guy!!  They think I’m a good guy!

    KS:  Sport of choice?

    EP:  Baseball

    KS:  Team?

    EP:  Texas Rangers.

    KS:  What’s on your iPod right now?

    EP:  Actually I have the new U2 album.  I’ve just been kinda playing that seeing it’s about.

    KS:  You’re on your time off, you can’t wait to do this.

    EP:  Projects. I like handy man projects.

    KS:  You just got home…you can’t wait to see or do this.

    EP:  See my girlfriend.

    KS:  Thank you so much Eric, I can’t wait to see you this Saturday and again in November when you come here to the Utica area.

    EP:  Thank you for doing what you do.

    As I hung up the phone from the interview I couldn’t believe what a down to earth, intelligent, normal guy he was.  This young man was wise beyond his years.  It’s one thing to have talent, a dream, and ambition.  But Eric had something else that is critical in the success of any and every career.  He had the understanding that you must know your business and market to succeed.  By going to school to learn this business, by being willing to listen, and by being willing to work hard, he’s made a name in the business in a positive way that will give him opportunities beyond many others.

    [FinalTilesGallery id=’37’]

    After speaking to Eric, and learning so much more about him, I was super pumped to see him perform live.  Arriving early to the show, I was given a meet and greet pass to meet Eric in person, and now the anticipation began to boil over.  That was such a treat as I was not expecting that.

    First to the stage was local band, Hoot’n Anges, who rocked the crowd and warmed them up with a list of original music and covers of some of todays biggest hits.  The three-piece band certainly had the sound of a full band with vocals being covered by husband and wife team of Angela and Lucas Marino and fiddle player Gregory Mach.

    [FinalTilesGallery id=’38’]

    They were really good, and I was enjoying shooting photos of the opening act.  A little too much though.  I unfortunately was so wrapped up in taking photos, that by the time I realized it, I had missed the meet and greet. Seriously!!  Who does that?  I must be the only person in the world to get so caught up in taking photos, that I miss a meet and greet with an a one of today’s country music stars!  Sorry Eric, wasn’t intentional.  For my readers that don’t know me, yes, I am a blonde and I’m easily distracted.  Hopefully I’ll have another opportunity one day, and I promise to not miss that one.

    Eric took the stage immediately after the opening act completed, and what a performance he gave the packed house.  Singing songs he’s written over the years, and covering covers as though they were his own, he owned the crowd the minute he took the stage.  His current hit and ballad “She Don’t Love You”, co written with Jennifer Wayne, granddaughter to John Wayne, has to be one of the most beautiful songs I’ve heard in a long time.  Originally meant for George Straight, I am glad he kept it as his own as I feel that it was meant for him to sing.  He delivers it with such emotion that you don’t hear the song, you feel the song. The crowd concurred.  As he sang his song’s “Song About A Girl”, “Barefoot Blue Jean Night”, “Angel Eyes”,  and “Even If It Breaks Your Heart”, the crowd joined in and sang along word for word.  I absolutely loved his covers too. His choices of “Ain’t No Sunshine” by   Bill Withers, and “Free Fallin” by Tom Petty were spot on and showcased his musical skills.  If there’s one thing I can categorize about Eric’s singing, he sings with his soul.  He’s not just on stage delivering words, he’s delivering an emotion alongside the words.  This ultimately translates to a connection with the audience that not every artist can achieve.  There’s nothing fake about this young man.  He truly loves what he does, and he truly loves sharing it with us, his fans.

    As I left the show and reflected back on my conversation with him and watching him perform for the audience, I felt that he’s a so much more than just a performer.  He’s got the know how to work within this industry his entire life, he has the talent to achieve whatever he sets his mind to, and he’s got the heart to appreciate those nerves each time he goes out on the Opry stage.  My favorite thing about Eric though, besides the fact that he graduated from MTSU in Murfreesboro, TN where I grew up, or the analogies to sports throughout his interview, was that he “wanted to be awake for life”!!!
    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QJW4JB5IeI]
    Setlist: Like A Song> Here Comes Love > Never Really Wanted > Barefoot Blue Jean Night> All or Nothing> She Don’t Love You> Angel Eyes> Fish Don’t Bite> Ain’t No Sunshine> Good With Wine> Free Fallin> Even If It Breaks Your Heart> Less Than Whole> Keep On Fallin’> Friday Night

    [FinalTilesGallery id=’36’]

  • Interview: Thompson Square – Bringing Country to Syracuse

    Toby Keith’s I love this Bar and Grill, Syracuse hosted one hell of a party Saturday, October 25. Long before music was to begin, the place was jam-packed with country fans of all ages waiting for Nashville’s very own married duo country sensation, Thompson Square to take the stage.

    Local favorites TJ Sacco and the Urban Cowboys took the stage to get the party started. Performing songs from artists such as Brantley Gilbert, Eric Church and Gary Allan, they captivated the fans and rocked their set. Just back from a visit to Nashville, Briana Jessie joined Sacco and the guys on stage and owned it. Belting out songs by Miranda Lambert, Pistol Annies, and Carrie Underwood, their high energy show had the crowd roaring and begging for more.

    Thompson Square - KRicher 10-25-14
    The room went dark and you could feel the anticipation in the air. It was time for Thompson Square to take the stage. With the crowd chanting their name and the cheers for the music to continue, the band members of Thompson Square took their spots and played their instruments to the light show and the crowds’ cheers. The energy and anticipation grew until Shawna and Keifer joined their band on the stage. Floor shaking and music thumping, the crowd greeted Thompson Square with a warm Syracuse welcome!

    This award-winning duo shares their life with the world and gives the fans a peek into their personal lives with the music they write and perform. While other artists try to keep as much private as possible, this humble duo invites us to experience their life right along side them. Performing their hit songs “I Got You,” “Glass” and “I Can’t Outrun You” they displayed their passion for music and each other through the undeniable chemistry we all witnessed.

    Prior to the show, I had the opportunity to meet this amazing duo on their tour bus and do an interview for NYS Music. Nervous and excited all at the same time, I couldn’t believe I was going to meet one of my favorite country performers. Oh and did I mention this was my very 1st interview ever! Talk about nerves, but of course, Shawna and Keifer were so welcoming and down to earth.

    Kim Richer – NYS Music: Thank you so much for agreeing to speak with NYS Music. We appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to meet with me. This is my very first interview and I’m a huge fan so please excuse my jitters.

    Shawna – Thompson Square: How exciting for you. So nice to meet you, but you shouldn’t have told Keifer this was your first interview, he’ll make ya pay. Hahahaha

    Keifer – Thompson Square: Yup, you probably shouldn’t have shared that with me.

    KR: Do you find that as a married couple performing as a duo you have hit different obstacles than you would have as a solo artist?

    Keifer: I don’t think we’ve faced many obstacles, but we are finding that maybe people think that our shows won’t be as much fun or exciting since we are a married couple that we don’t like to party, but we do. I think that’s really the only misconception.

    Shawna: The only other weird thing is that when we are off the road and home just the two of us it’s strange. We are constantly out here with our crew and our band, it’s almost like we are living two separate lives. It’s just a little strange.

    KR: So, is it true that you met eachother at a singing competition?

    Keifer: Yes, we met at a competition in Nashville back in 1996. We met the first day of the competition and we’ve been together ever since.

    KR: Did you know right away that you were each the one?

    Shawna: Yes, I know it sounds really cheesey but that’s the way it was. It was crazy.

    KR: How did all of this start for each of you? Did you have an influence growing up?

    Shawna: I’ve known since I was like 5 that this is what I wanted to do. At 5 I went to an Alabama concert and the way they entertained and they were so massive. I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to be on stage. My dad also played music and sang so I was around it growing up and it just felt so natural.

    Keifer: I always wanted to do this. I was really shy as a young kid. It took me a while to come out of my shell. I was always playing a guitar and dancing around as a kid but when I was 14 I started writing music and at 15 I snuck into a place and performed. It’s such an intimate thing to perform songs you have written. Once I had that first show, you couldn’t shut me up after that.

    KR: So you are dropping a new album next year.

    Keifer: Yes, Spring time maybe.

    Shawna: Or at least a single. We just started recording.

    KR: If you could perform with anyone on stage, dead or alive, who would it be?

    Keifer: Bruce Springsteen for sure.

    Shawna: Etta James or Elvis would be awesome too.

    KR: If you could give someone wanting to follow in your footsteps to become a star what advice would you tell them?

    Keifer: I would say make damn sure you want to do this because you have to give everything but your soul to get there. You literally choose to be poor, choose to be frustrated, choose to be heartbroken. The payoff from a satisfaction standpoint is so worth it.

    Shawna: All the heartbreak and hard times we have had to endure is worth it. But it’s true, it is very hard work.

    Keifer: I don’t feel like we’ve made it yet. I feel like we are still paying our dues and I’m fine with that. We have a long way to go, I hope.

    Shawna: What’s really weird too is you speak to some of these huge artists like Jason Aldean and he’ll still say to this day, it can all be gone like that and go away tomorrow, so everyday is a battle to stay on top.

    KR: Well you guys are doing a kick ass job so keep it up!

    Shawna and Keifer: Thank you so much.

    ThompsonSquare-KRicher 10-25-14

    While watching Shawna and Keifer perform it resonated with me that they are just as raw and honest on stage as they are sitting across from you at a table.

  • Cabinet Carves Through Rochester

    Bluegrass has been taking on different personas these last few years and a genre that encompasses all that is bluegrass has grown to include the old-timey tunes of Bill Monroe and Del McCoury to the jamgrass of YMSB and Greensky Bluegrass, Cabinet‘s show on October 10 in Rochester at Montage Music Hall proved to fans that they are fully capable of existing in both suits. Cabinet has their roots planted in the old-timey music of the past while existing in the present and fans of the bluegrass genre are pumped to have this band in the mix.

    “I was determined to carve out a music of my own, I didn’t want to copy anybody” – Bill Monroe

    Cabinet Montage Music Hall Rochester (9)

    The night began with a solid jam with high energy, Todd Kopec played his soul out on the fiddle with style and ease. In fact the entire set seemed to have a strong jamgrass tone to it; the dance floor was full of fans whom enjoyed the slight change in pace from previous Rochester appearances. “Oxygen” was strong, the energy was not that of their DelFest appearance but a much jammier session with moments of instrumental ecstasy from each band member. Also notable was the energy that came from mandolin player, JP Biondo on “Doors” was unmatchable and resonated throughout the venue with fans singing out loud to the inspiring lyrics of a song that represents the paths we take in life and how we view our place in this universe.

    Cabinet Montage Music Hall Rochester (15)

    Without a doubt this show was one of the best Rochester has seen from Cabinet. The band continues to climb higher and higher on the pecking order of bluegrass bands. Cabinet’s last New York appearance on this tour will be at the Highline Ballroom in NYC Oct. 30 for a two-night Halloween event, Night of the Living Dead, featuring the Infamous String Dusters featuring Keller Williams and special guests Cabinet; whom will be showcasing the music of the Grateful Dead for this special event. The show is sold out at this time, please contact the venue for further information on tickets.

    Cabinet shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon, their continuous touring, their depth of talent and their excellent stage presence are carving a path through the bluegrass genre, and rightfully so by the caliber of this show. Expect to see more and more of this band as time goes forward.

  • Banjo Banjo: Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

    “You ready Fleck? ‘I hope so’ ” and with that, Abigail Washburn and Béla Fleck began their show at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall on October 24 each alternating between six banjo throughout the night, the married duo of Fleck and Washburn embarked on a night of beautifully crafted duets, murder ballads and songs from their new album Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn. An Irish meets Appalachia “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad” opened the night, the resonance of the banjo head echoing through the room. “Banjo Banjo” jokingly explained to the audience as the one song they wrote all summer, the simplicity of the title a nod to the toils of a married musical duo, the tune sounded as though it could be the soundtrack to one of those ‘traveling down the road’ montages in a movie.

    bela fleck abigail washburn banjo“Ride to You,” a song of longing, off their new album was a true highlight. Washburn’s voice and intonation adding gravity to the composition. Béla then stepped off to the side of the stage and performed a solo, captivating the audience and treating those left of center.

    The old-timey murder ballad from Appalachia, “Pretty Polly” was introduced by Washburn, not surprisingly the chattier of the pair, and she told the story of a girl murdered and buried in a shallow grave, only to haunt her murderer – romantic stuff. From deep in the mountains of Western China, thick cloud cover experienced by Washburn over an extended visit spawned “The Sun is Out” a translated title sung in the original tongue, an uplifting antidote to the previous number.  A porch song from 1936, “Keys to the Kingdom” had a ‘You give me Fever’ sing along component complete with audience participation on chorus and snapping. The set ended on a high note, a buzz about the show growing steadily as many shuffled to the merchandise table, as 100% of sales would benefit The Clearwater Foundation, a cause near to the hearts of many in the audience.

    bela fleck abigail washburn banjoFleck came out alone to start the second set, dedicating a medley improv including portions of “Caravan” and “Big Country,” to his teachers who were in the audience; Marc Horowitz and Bill Keith, of whom Fleck added, “Without them, I’d be nothing.” Washburn joined shortly after, the two speaking to their individual banjo playing styles – Washburn, utilizing the clawhammer style with its African roots and Fleck with the three-finger style honed by Earl Scruggs and many others – combining for a truly pleasant binary-banjo sound. “Bring me my Queen” with lyrics “She takes all my love, all my notions, tears them all down to the ground. Oh, bring me my queen,” shared the dual nature of love, the pains and needs that come with territory.

    An original by Béla featured simple lyrics “What’cha gonna do when the land goes under the water” at an urgent pace and echoing the sing-along style of Pete Seeger, who Fleck remarked “is why a lot of us are good at singing along.” Another murder ballad/revenge song followed, this one a self-infused, more passionate number from Washburn, the reverberating head of the banjos contributing to the foreboding nature of the tune. An encore of “New South Africa” was preceded with the history of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones performing in South Africa upon Nelson Mandela becoming president of the ‘new’ country. With an encore of “I Sing I’m Happy, I Sing because I’m Free,” recalled by Washburn as her grandmother June’s favorite song, the crowd was enlivened as they set out into the crisp autumn night in Troy.

  • Married with Music: Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall October 24

    Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn arent just virtuoso banjo players – they’re also husband and wife. Together, Fleck and Washburn employ the relatively rare 3-finger and clawhammer banjo duet to create an explosion of musical white heat. Add in Washburn’s voice and you have a night of musical magic waiting for you at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall on Friday, October 24.

    bela fleck and abigail washburnThese two banjoists have mastered the deceptively intricate art of the duet. Their performances embrace a diversity almost unthinkable – coming from just two banjos and one voice. Washburn’s beguiling composing, playing and singing blend with Fleck’s riveting and virtuosic musicianship to create music both unique yet familiar in texture.

    Fleck is a 15-time Grammy winner who has collaborated with Chick Corea, Oumou Sangare, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer, Dave Mathews, Earl Scruggs, and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for his Banjo Concert ‘The Impostor’. Washburn’s banjo has taken her far beyond the usual old-timey comfort zone, musically and geographically. An alumnus of Uncle Earl, the powerhouse all-female stringband, Abby’s adopted second homeland is China, and her music resounds with echoes of Appalachia and the tidal wave of emerging Chinese cultural influence.

    Tickets for Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall are $25-42 and can be purchased at the box office or online.

    Listen to Fleck and Washburn on NPR discuss finally teaming up together, and watch Washburn’s TED Talk below.

  • Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) To Release Tell ‘Em I’m Gone October 27, Full Album Stream Available

    albumRock And Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2014 songwriter Yusuf Islam (formerly known as Cat Stevens) is streaming his latest album Tell ‘Em I’m Gone here. The album which was Co-Produced by acclaimed producer Rick Rubin will drop October 27.

    This marks Yusuf Islam’s first album since 2009’s Roadsinger. Tell ‘Em I’m Gone is a mix between original material and covers.

    Track Listing:

    1. “I Was Raised In Babylon”
    2. “Big Boss Man”
    3. “Dying To Live”
    4. “You Are My Sunshine”
    5. “Editing Floor Blues”
    6. “Cat & The Dog Trap”
    7. “Gold Digger”
    8. “The Devil Came From Kansas”
    9. “Tell ‘Em I’m Gone”
    10. “Doors”

    You can purchase the album here.

    As previously reported, Yusuf Islam is embarking on the “Peace Train…Late Again” Tour. The tour will start overseas in Europe in November, but will reach the United States in December at select cities. No dates in New York as the New York City show December 7th is cancelled. Closest stops from the Upstate NY region will be December 1st in Toronto, December 4th in Philadelphia, and December 7th in Boston.

    Yusuf Islam released the following statement on his official website:

    “Unfortunately I will not be performing in NYC this time around but I am looking forward to playing for fans in Philadelphia on December 4 and hope to return to NYC at a future date. My fans will understand and I thank them for informing me about the extortionate tickets prices already being listed on some websites. I have been a longtime supporter of paperless tickets to my shows worldwide and avoiding scalpers. Unfortunately NY has a state law that requires all tickets sold for shows in NYC to be paper, enabling them to be bought and sold at inflated prices. I’m sorry about not being able to now play in NYC but hope to find an opportunity that aligns with my support of this issue in the near future, God willing. Looks like the Peace Train is going to arrive at New York a little bit later than expected.”

    North American tour dates as follows:

    Dec 01  •  Toronto  Massey Hall
    Dec 04  •  Philadelphia  Tower Theatre
    Dec 07  •  Boston  Wang Theatre (New Date)
    Dec 09  •  Chicago  Chicago Theatre
    Dec 12  •  San Francisco  Masonic Auditorium
    Dec 14  •  Los Angeles  Nokia Theatre

  • The Sea The Sea and Great Mutations dive into Albany

    On a Fall October night in Albany at The Low Beat, two local bands took to the stage to show that the music scene in the area is alive and well. The Sea The Sea, with openers Great Mutations played their first and third live shows of the area, respectively, and made new fans to those who were in attendance. Three piece act Great Mutations, from Troy, started the evening off with some easy-going rock tunes that would sound perfect on the California coast. Their songs were well written, both musically and lyrically. The beginning of their set saw some trepidation from the band, but by the end of the set their confidence oozed through the music. Lead singer and guitarist Matt Thouin said after the set that the band likes to mainly record and haven’t looked into playing live shows, but hopefully this will change as the band showed off a lot of potential in their 40 minute set.

    After a short break The Sea The Sea played their first Albany show. Duo Mira Stanley and Chuck E. Costa played a great set of folk-rock that had signs of deep space and jamming thrown in for good measure. The Sea The Sea’s name, which means ‘a cry of joy’, came from a Greek tale of soldiers arriving to see the ocean and exclaiming the words and Mira and Chuck sing their songs with such joy that the name fits perfectly. Their harmonies at times soared over the music with their dreamy lyrics and made everyone in the venue focus on what was being sung instead of the music that was being produced.

    Bryan-Lasky-The-Sea-The-Sea-5

    With only one album to their credit, The Sea The Sea decided to surprise the crowd and play a set mostly composed of brand new music that no one has heard yet and hopefully will make the second album the band plans on recording will living in the Albany area once again. The one song they played from their first album was the title track “Love We Are We Love” and it gave the group a moment to not worry about the new material and let them go zone in on the music. The rest of the music throughout the night was wonderful as well. The best new track was “Drunken King” near the end of the evening. The haunting track has Pink Floyd vocal wailing from Mira, while Chuck sings straight forward and plays the keys. The minimal music in the song lets the lyrics really be the forefront of what the listener is hearing throughout the song.

    With two guitars, a harmonica, a drum set, a keyboard, and two voices, The Sea The Sea put on an hour-long set that seemed to go by too quickly. Though the music is not what one would consider busy, it melds perfectly with their voices to create a beautiful sound-scape that gets caught in your head and doesn’t want to leave. The band is now once again living in the Capital District and should be playing regularly around town. The small crowd at The Low Beat for the show were won over by show’s end. Hopefully as more shows pop up for The Sea The Sea, the crowds for this great duo continue to rise like the tide.

  • The Hello Strangers at The Linda on October 10

    What happens when music emerges from Pennsyltucky by way of Austin via two lovely ladies with a fire in their hearts? Storied tales told through song in a style reminiscent of old-timey country yet dashed in modern indie folk-rock make up The Hello Strangers, that is what happens!

    Currently, The Hello Strangers are on tour in support of their self-titled album. Featuring eleven songs and two originals, country giant and omnipresent, Jim Lauderdale sings “What You Don’t Know”. A slowed version of “Que Sera, Sera” is a hauntingly beautiful nod to the sisters’ lineage as their grandfather, Ronald Chace, sang with Doris Day.

    An equally talented trio supports Larrissa Chace Smith and Brechyn Chace: Spencer Pheil, Trent Renshaw, and Tom Hoy. Don’t miss this opportunity to say hello, hear some tunes and perhaps, no longer be strangers. The Hello Strangers are sure to tickle your fancy. Local 518 band, Rebel Darling led by MR Poulopoulos, will open the show. Tickets are available at The Linda.

  • In Focus: Oak Mountain Bluegrass and Arts Festival 2014

    When invited to cover the Second Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass & Arts Festival I did not hesitate to jump at the opportunity. What could be better than enjoying some amazing live music in the beautiful Adirondacks? Located in the Hamilton County hamlet of Speculator/Lake Pleasant, this day long event offered family fun with camping, music, vendors, and good eats. With a stellar line up of Swampcandy, Remsen Social Club, The Old Main, Sleep Man Banjo Boys, and Nick/Jay/Nigel from Floodwood, you couldn’t go wrong.

    Nick, Nigel & Braids – 2nd Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival

    Swampcandy – As the party began, first up was Swampcandy, the duo of Joey Mitchell and Ruben Dobbs, who brought the beat with their stand up bass and ganjo, rocking those early attendees who had arrived early to secure the perfect spot up front .  These two young men bring to an audience a full piece band as they play and sing original tunes that express life as they know it.

    The Sleepy Man Banjo Boys – 2nd Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival

    Remsen Social Club – These four young men, Bryan Davies on tenor banjo, guitar, wash tub, bass, and vocals; Tim Slusarcyzk on upright bass, harp, and vocals; Ben carrier on guitar, mandolin, harp, 5 string banjo, and vocals; and Chris Taylor on Gatling harps, mouth harp, harmonica in a beer can (yes you read that correctly) and vocals bring something unique with their bluegrass, Americana sound.  Playing a mix of original music, such as “Over You Darlin” and “Am I Best” along with some all time favorite covers such as “Stuck In the Middle With You” by Stellars Wheel, they had the crowd wound up and ready for their day long of music and fun.

    Remsen Social Club – 2nd Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival

    The Old Main – The Old Main showed up ready to give the attendees a show and then some. With Seth Becker on guitar, harmonica, and vocals; Robb Nash on upright bass, tin whistle, and vocals; Gavin Bailey on piano, accordion, and backup vocals; and Mitch Eckler on drums and backup vocals, this quartet certainly sounded as though they had been playing together for ages.  With two full sets to be performed, Seth and Nash took the stage first doing a whole set that included many originals and several covers of some of my favorite songs, such as “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Crazy” and “Winding Road”. The versatility of these two to be able to switch from bluegrass to rock to country was seamless, just as their transition to the second set when the whole band joined them on stage to entertain the attendees for the remaining time. Continuing the party for another hour, they were joined on stage by Chris Taylor from the Remsen Social Club on his harmonica in a beer can contraption that produced a unique reverberation and sound I must add .  Audience members could be found volleying beach balls, singing, and dancing along with the quartet for the entire time. If I had to describe their performance to someone who couldn’t be there…words such as fun, energetic, enlivened, would be a few words chosen to do so.

    2n Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival Vendors

    Sleepy Man Banjo Boys – For those who have yet to see these three young men, let me tell you there is nothing sleepy about them. The three brothers, Tommy, Robbie, and Jonny Mizzone, that make up The Sleepy Man Banjo Boys, have achieved huge success in their genre, all by the ages of 16, 14, and 11 years old. Seriously? Oh you betcha ladies and gentlemen. As I stood there with my jaw gaping, these three totally mesmerized me with their musical prowess and skill. They are not new however to the music scene as they have just released their third album. Already appearing at The Grand Old Opry and on the David Letterman Show, Sleepy Man Banjo Boys have acquired quite the following, and now have even more with those that saw them for the first time up to Oak Mountain.

    Nick, Nigel, & Braids – Always a favorite anywhere they attend, Nick, Nigel, & Braids closed out the Bluegrass Festival in true style. Their ability to bring the party everywhere they go makes them a favorite at every venue they play. With Nigel (Zach) on stand up bass and guitar, Nick on vocals, guitar, and banjo, and Jason (Braids) on mandolin and vocals, a dance party ensues each time they play. Bringing the true spirit of the bluegrass sound from the Appalachian Mountains all the way to our Adirondack Mountains, I can think of no one better to close the Second Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival than Central NY’s very own Nick, Nigel, & Braids. Whether playing individually, as a duo, or with the other members of Floodwood, their distinctive sound is the essence of true Americana music.

    As the day wound down, the weather held out, the embers of the bonfire burned down, attendees departed and with a pep in their step and a tune in their heads, they looked forward to the Third Annual Oak Mountain Bluegrass Festival.