Roots Review 53, 54

I've been excited with anticipation to review the first two absolutely amazing American Roots Live shows of our second year celebrating the music, but now find myself seriously lost for words.

Today we are all stunned and saddened by the passing, Sunday, of our friend, our brother, a true American Roots Live All-Star and international guitar-legend in his own right, Bernie Brausewetter.

BB was with us, on stage, through-out ARL's first year in every venue we played. Even when we expanded to two shows per week in two states, Bernie often made both, back to back.

Always a gentleman and a pro's pro, Bernie Brausewetter thrilled fans everywhere he went with his awesome genius and brilliant guitar work.

I can't say enough about the big man so I'll stop trying to find the right words. Forgive me. I'd rather post photos of Bernie this time and simply post ARL 53 and 54's role call of totally over-the-top performers below. Those shows were very special, but I know you and they will all understand that I don't gush here about tremendous performances.

As soon as the flood waters recede in Bound Brook, hopefully Thursday, American Roots Live 55 will be dedicated to BB with a special memorial show. I already have a long list of musicians who love and admire him, who have agreed to play in his honor. We hope to see you all there. Let's keep Bernie's memory and music alive.

Thanks to Win for the photos and his heartfelt BB eulogy that I'll post excerpts from another time. More of Win's, Ed Pampani's and Eddie Ray's photos of Bernie and friends can be viewed at the ARL photo gallery. Thank you.

Keeping it real,

Nasty Ned

Bernie Brausewetter at Orphan Annie's.

BB at ARL in the early days at the Rail.

L2R Bernie, John Powers, Paul Daloia, Johnny Charles.

Bernie and Michael Krizan, Zupko's, August '06.

L2R, Byron J, Ame, Ed Pampani, Ned, Lori V, BB, John Powers, Jeff Page.

Bernie and mom. ARL, Zupko's August '06.



American Roots Live 53 & 54 Performers
John Powers
JR Bradfield
Johnny Charles
Jaimo Flynn
Ed Pampani
Mimi Nowak
Len DePiano
Robert Zee
Snakeman Runyan
Keith McGonigle
Josh Gebhardt
Metal Bob
Chris O'Sullivan
Roy Macnamara
Maria Riggi
Scott McPherson
Rotten Robert
Arlene Schar
Bones Sanford
Randy Marinelli
Matt Warta
Jake Jar el
Ron Michaels
Nancy Coletti
Brianna Beatie
Arne Englund
Freddie Macarone
Dennis Macarone
Lori V
Carlo Trentacoste
Artie LeAndro
Sonny Young
Bob Giglio