Roots Review 40

Do you want to know what really makes an American Roots Live open mic show so special? It's the high caliber of the musician on stage, lack of ego, respect for each other, willingness to accomodate and help each other for the sake of the show. And it's their professionalism and dedication to the cause.


Saving American Roots Live!

John Powers in New Jersey and Billy K, Chip Bush and Ed Moore in Pennsylvania get the job done week after week because of their dedication and because they love doing it and because they want to save the music.

We save the soundtrack of our culture by celebrating it each week and introducing it to young people. Inviting youngsters on stage to play with the pros is an experience they never forget. And each more than holds their own. It's exciting to see them play for an audience and get the feel for the stage. All of them, whether nine years old, 14 years old or 17 years old, are wonderful.

This week American Roots Live 40 welcomed Sarah MacCombie, a talenetd 19 year old bass player whose interests are playing and listening to jazz and blues. She kept it in the pocket for guitarist Bobby Malavenda with Ed Pampani on drums. Sarah is Bobby's student at Manville Music Center.

What was cool was seeing Johnny Charles stay on stage for two songs with the youngster after his own incredible set with JR Bradfield just showing his special interest.

I'm so proud of all of the musicians who step onto our stage each week.

Audiences at American Roots Live 40 at the Bluetone Cafe in Easton, PA and the Rail in Bound Brook, NJ were treated to inspiring performances by a red-hot Johnny Charles in both venues, Sonny Young, Arlene Schar, Vern Mobley, Doc Z, Joe Matthews, Michael Lopresti. Bones Sandford in both venues, Laurie Vosburg, Nick T, Keith Pagam Jr., Evan Wismer Jr., Goerge Kokokous and the fabulous Rob Fraser on bass from Mike Dugan and Blues Mission. Also thanks to Don Mickel.

There was John Powers, Pampani, a smokin' Jimmy Somma, Gary Amarossa, Screamin' Mimi Nowak, stump pickin' Bradfield who also played bass for who ever requested him, Bob DelRosso, young Sarah, Randy Marinelli, Carlo, Gavin Lawrence, Malavenda and that steady poppin' south-paw, Walter Foot. Also thanks to Rotten Robert and Dave Becker.

There really is no other show like American Roots Live anywhere.

And for all who come to American Roots Live, the food is absolutely great and affordable - at both venues.

The Bluetone Cafe in Easton serves up great hot and cold platters prepared by Aaron - and the best dang southern fried chicken 'round these parts. Order up some sweet potato fries and homemade cheese macaroni and you got yourself a delicious meal with plenty of jing left in your pocket.

The Rail in Bound Brook offers a great new menu including juicy burgers, pub fries, salads, wing specials and a DAILY 16 oz. Steak Special for $9.99 with seasoned red potatoes and fresh vegetables prepared by Matt. It's down right delicious and you get your monies worth and more - and that can't be beat.

Bring more than just your love of music to American Roots Live. There's good eatin' to be had at every show. And always come early to enjoy your meal and get a great seat.

My grateful appreciation goes to the folks who go the extra mile for our cause: Elliott "Win" Newcomb, Elmore Magazine and publisher Suzanne Cadgene, LouMarc Signs, Computown Technologies, Evan Coniglio, BJ Byron, Joe Karam, Mike and Lynn, our sponsors, supporters and volunteers.

And I also appreciate you.

Keeping it real,

Ned