ARL Roots Review 87

Words alone can't describe the incredible week of live music we experienced over the holidays at American Roots Live and Writers in Raritan. Here's a photo taste of how we celebrated the music and rang in the new year...


My heart is filled with hope and happiness for all of us in 2008.

Happy New Year!

Photos; Ed Pampani and pic:win

Photos include: Lee Fink, Sweeter than Honey; Ruth, Sam & Josh Rios, Mark Bodino, Plainfield Slim & Ned, Mojo Road; Todd & Van, Mike Caruso, Rocco Scavone, Christine Martucci, Melissa Anthony, HoneyBoy Dupree, Ron Seibert, Keith Autocunas, Zacherey Gaviria, Brent Myers, Corey Small, Hershall Dow.

American Roots Live 87's playlist includes: JR Bradfield, Aster Pheonyx, HoneyBoy Dupree, Rhyme & Reason; Jim & Rob, Christine Martucci, Corey Small, Randy Marinelli, Ed Pampani, Hershall Dow, Lee Fink, Plainfield Slim & the Hawgs, Gar Francis, Mike Caruso, Rocco Scavone, Gene Goodman, Mace Gill, Ron Seibert, Zachery Gaviria, David Alles, Mimi Nowak, Gerry Perlinski, The Mark Bodino Band; Mark, Jack & Robert, Sweeter than Honey; Ruth, Sam & Josh Rios, Tommy Toye, Mojo Road; Ken, Nick, Todd & Van, Chris Mongiello, Billy K, Brent Meyers, Eric Meyers, Robert Zee, Joe Salerno, John Breen, Chaz.

Writers in Raritan: Melissa Anthony, Corey Small, Christine Martucci, Frank Victor

Shout out to Jim Beckerman, the Noisy Neighbors, Blue Moon Cafe, Walter, Adrian, Rick, Karin, Orphan Annie's, Denise, Joe, DeCicco's, Win, EP, Tracey Stones, Pat and everybody that works to keep music live and alive.

Keeping it real,

Ned,

I'll spell check in the morning - it's midnight - Happy New Year!

ARL Roots Review 86

American Roots Live 86 and Writers in Raritan in the week leading up to this Christmas holiday was full of comfort and joy, new and old friends - and lots of love.

Perhaps as close as we'll get to living inside a Courier & Ives print in this year of 2007.

Our new friend "E" from Miami, Florida was the center piece in this holiday tapestry. "E", (above, pic:win) exuded brotherhood and goodwill during his showcase performance and had us riveted as he sang of warmth and love, rivers of honey, forgiveness and tolerance in his tremendously rich and authentic blues voice. Except for the muted bling-tone of some one's pocketed text messenger, it was "E's" heartfelt performance and a silent night.

If you weren't there - you should have been.

Many made the pilgrimage to ARL and WiR this week as if filled with anticipation of tiny hoofs on a roof-top or just filled with party spirit and seeking an outlet to let loose. What ever you came looking for - we had it.

Down to the mini marshmallows for your hot cocoa.

John Powers revved us up with his unforgettable songs, Kerry Anderson held the whole world in her hand, Corey Small thumped and hammered home his wonderful creations, Dennis Macarone reminded me of sharing the stage with the Chiffons in 1966, Joe Cerisano of Trans-Siberian Orchestra sang of fathers and sons, Mace Gill gave us Blind Willie Johnson, Mimi Nowak brought the house down, Johnny Charles ripped us all a new one, JR Bradfield smiled and accommodated, John Breen sang Christmas carols with his ukelelee... I think the only thing missing was the partridge and the pear tree.

Our playlist recognizes: JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, "E", Mace Gill, Corey Small, Robert Zee, Johnny Charles, Kim Brewer, Tommy Toye, Hershall Dow, Mordechai Jones, Carlo Trentacosta, Keith Autoncunas, Randy Marinelli, Doug Ivey, Tim Ludwig, Johnny Thompson, Joe Cerisano, Randy Smith, Chris O'Sullivan, Mimi Nowak, Bob Giglio, Ed Avilia, Ron Seibert, John Breen, Snakeman Runyan, The No Names, JW & the Honky Tonk Buicks, Gene Goodman, Carl Marcantonio, Rich Keorner, Roy Macanamara, Dennis Macarone, John Powers, Kerry Anderson and Peter Prasa.

As we revel in the spirit of this holiday season and reflect back on a year of circumstance and accomplishment let us look forward toward the future. Our future together as friends, our future as individuals, as a society, as a world and let us be happy, thankful and joyous, and please, let us never forget the glue that holds us all together - the music, sweet music, let there be music everywhere.

Thanks to all who give it life and longevity. Thanks to Win and EP. And bless you all.

Merry Christmas to us all - everyone.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review Writers in Raritan

Because both of American Roots Live's big nights got bumped by bad weather, last week's Writers in Raritan is the one spectacular to report. Perhaps sweet serendipity, last week's WiR was one special show.

Therefore four special performers will get their due props here where normally we'd discuss dozens.

On Wednesday night Christine Martucci, Aster Pheonyx, Sarah Donner and Kevin Reavey delivered the goods at 10 Anderson Street much to the delight of the assembled WiR enthusiasts.

A bubbling creative community.

Besides stellar performers, last week's Writers in Raritan had more artists on hand than actually on the bill, there was a cool positive vibe in the room.

John Powers, Peter Prasa, Corey Small, Frank Victor and Vincent Inciong (all booked on upcoming shows; Powers and Prasa tonight) listened and mingled. Add the ear and awareness of JR Bradfield, and it was as if a mind-bending songwriter's-workshop could have broken out at any moment.

Kevin Reavey, on his second Writers in Raritan appearance was well received again. He kicked it off with ease. Songs, strong of hook and lyric, Kevin has a nice presence on our show. He'll be back. Click here for the regularly updated performance calendar to watch for Kevin Reavy's return.

Christine Martucci's music is honest and a sound you feel as much as hear.

Instantly connected to her energy, when first I met the hard rockin', soft soul of Christine Martucci, just minutes before she hit the stage at a packed Stanhope House one night - then was immediately knocked out when she did - I was thrilled to introduce her at Writers in Raritan and hear her go back to her roots of solo acoustic, with a riveting set of solid, passionate originals.

Her motto is "her fans deserve the best - never disappoint.” Christine and her full band are heading into a string of headline shows at Stone Pony, Mexicali Blues, and American Roots Live, February 7th in support of her second full-length CD, "I’m All In".

Christine joins Writers in Raritan again on December 26.

She wrote in her blog about WiR, and I para-phrase [ ...the moon and the stars align and magic happens. ...a home at DeCiccos for the singers/songwriters of the world. A place, where ego and pretense are left outside, where pure musical love and admiration flow, where songs are in their purest form, as well as the songwriter. ...listened to some amazing artists, and am privileged to meet John Powers(shout out)...also had the pleasure to finally play the same night and hear Aster Pheonyx ...do yourself a favor and check out her music. ...She rocks ...I am so happy to finally hear her. ...she is talented and humble and amazing!!! ]

Well that just about sums it up for Aster Pheonyx (top photo, pic:win), except that last week Aster was absolutely untouchable, incredible and at her very best! She likes Writers in Raritan and we LOVE her. We're all so excited for her.

You really should catch her anytime and anywhere you can.

BTW Aster Pheonyx plays American Roots Live, Thursday December 27.


Which brings us to Sarah Donner the sassy, quirky, incredibly talented songstress whose songs are funny, touching and intelligent. And such a voice has Ms. Donner. We hope to see her again at WiR as soon as possible, too.

Please check the regularly updated performance calendar to watch for Sarah Donner's return.

Well, gotta go get ready for another show. I hope to see you tonight at Writers in Raritan for John Powers, Kerry Anderson, Peter Prasa and Dennis Macarone.
Thursday, December 20 American Roots Live features bluesman "E" all the way from Miami, FLA.

Lot's of great music out there - you just have to know where to look for it. Why not bookmark this page. There's always something great going on at American Roots Live and Writers in Raritan.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review 85

American Roots Live 85 was one very special week of live music capped by a grand celebration of Orphan Annie's 30th Anniversary on Sunday.



ARL's Sunday show fell on the day marking three decades of live music for the Romano family, who built their business and many friendships on the stuff. We were honored to host the live music gala...


...great live music from eight great bands, for eight straight hours... then the mountains of free food caused me to recall a time long ago when I discovered that free food and live music made for a good time, though that free food sequestered in a small room back-stage was for the band - Sunday at Orphan Annie's was as if everyone had a backstage pass while friends, fans, guests and bands all mingled together at the serving tables.

We remembered our late great friend Bernie Brausewetter who was forever part of the OA landscape and missed him dearly realizing that if this party were held last year, he'd be on stage with us this day.

In BB's absence we welcomed his mom Mrs. B who attended the event with Big Nancy and husband Danny Swarbrick.
















Thanks to the Congregation (pic top), John Powers, JR Bradfield, Eryn Shewell Band (pic above), Tony Santos & his Blues Conspiracy with Big Nancy, Joe Morrison Project, Rockin' Daddy, The WALL and Dilly for the non-stop joyous noise.

In my 20 years playing Orphan Annie's, I've never seen so many people in that room at one time. We were absolutely mobbed! Here's to the next 30 years of live music at Orphan Annie's. Anne, Frank, Rick... congratulations.

Thursday, after we gave away 8 pairs of concert tickets to Starland Ballroom for the Pink Floyd tribute, we played host to one of the most famous anonymous singers in America; Joe Cerisano. Joe's is the soulful, raspy voice you've heard on more than fifty recognizable commercials on TV and radio. Joe was also the lead male voice on the 80's hit "Hands Across America" and, among many, many other projects including singing a recent hit for Korn - Joe Cerisano was lead singer with Trans-Siberian Orchestra in 1998 when the touring troupe went double platinum with their smash holiday album Christmas Attic.

It was great having Joe on our stage and fun hearing him and Mimi Nowak singing and having fun together with Roy Macnamara, Peter Mailliss, JR Bradfield and Anthony Gagliano rounding out the band.

With us all week, both at Writers in Raritan and American Roots Live, Joe, on his first night at ARL really enjoyed Hershall Dow and Mordechi Jones with Randy Marinelli on drums and Corey Small on bass. Then was knocked-out when Corey picked-up his acoustic guitar and did fifteen minutes of thumping, innovative original songs. He would marvel at Big Nancy's harp discipline, precision and tone three nights later.

Lisa, Jeri and Lucky, who we know and love as Cleaver June, entertained us Thursday with a rockin' high energy stint and really turning it up - turned heads.

There was a great vibe in the room all week!

ARL 85's playlist also included accomplished contributions from Johnny Thompson, Tommy Toye, Ed Pampani, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Carlo Trentacosta, Don Howland and Ron Seibert.

At Wednesday's Writer's in Raritan, with heavies Joe Cerisano, Tommy Fuller and Mike Caruso from the Doughboys in the house; Gerry Perlinski, Peter Prasa, Sheli Aarden and Keith Monacchio bared their souls, their songcraft and solo performance to enthusiastic attendies in an especially entertaining evening of original music.

We've since booked a special show at WiR for January 9 featuring Tommy Fuller, Joe Cerisano, Sheli Aarden and Peter Prasa - mark down that date but first, don't miss the powerful December 12th line-up of Christine Martucci, Aster Pheonyx, Sarah Donner and Kevin Reavey.

Many thanks to Ed Pampani for these live pics and for being an integral part of ARL. Also many thanks to all who help keep live music live. See you soon again.

Keeping it real,

Ned

Phishboy performed ARL 85

ARL Roots Review 84

Can't you see? Oh can't you see? How much fun lord, American Roots Live can be...

Six people who attended ARL 84 know exactly how much fun American Roots Live can be as they were recipients of the free Marshall Tucker Band concert tickets we gave away, compliments of Rick at Orphan Annie's. Hope you all enjoyed the MTB concert. We'll be giving away more tickets to another concert this Thursday so come and don't miss out!.

It was a great week of live music for us at ARL 84. We were entertained by many wonderful bands and musicians including Rock n' Daddy who played some very cool classic rock song choices. This is not your father's classic rock band - well, they are some body's fathers, but you know what I mean. (Frank Damelio, Rock n' Daddy, above pic by Ed Pampani)



We also heard the interesting and intelligent original sounds of the Mark Bodino Band, a real treat. MBB was our very welcomed showcase act Sunday night. (Mark, left pic: EP)



Well, it is all about LIVE music isn't it? And who knows more about live music than Orphan Annie's and American Roots Live? As matter of fact you are all invited to help us celebrate 30 years of live music this Sunday as the day marks Orphan Annie's 30th anniversary. Like the sign says, music starts at 4pm and goes til midnight. There will be 8 tremendous bands for you to groove, listen and dance to, including John Powers Band, The Congregation, Tony Santos and his Blues Conspiracy, The Wall, Eryn Shewell and so many more. There will also be a free hot & cold buffet all day and NO COVER CHARGE. Did I mention free food? See you Sunday.

See you Sunday that is, after we enjoy Wednesday night at Writers in Raritan and American Roots Live 85 on Thursday.

This week's Writers in Raritan will be another amazing spectacle of brilliance in songcraft featuring Gerry Perlinski, Sheli Aarden, Peter Prasa and Keith Monacchio. Another not to miss show.

If you have been to Writers in Raritan before you know how special an event this weekly singer-songwriter showcase is. Were you there last week listening to Tommy Fuller, Michael Brett, Chuck Schaeffer and Briz? I hope so because it was truely special. Tell your friends. WiR really is a cool thing.

American Roots Live 84's playlist read; Big Boy Kenny Nerbak, Corey Small, Ed Pampani, JR Bradfield, Robert Zee, Ron Seibert, John Sudia, Keith Autocunas, Mark Bodino Band; Mark, Jack & Bobby, Rock n' Daddy; Frank, L. Doc West, Bobby, Joe & Brian, Tommy Toye, Mordechai Jones and the myth, the legend, the man - American Roots Live All Star - good 'ol Hershall Dow (above pic EP)

Hey, also, don't miss me and the Roots Rebels; Michael Krizan and JR Bradfield as we tear up the Blue Moon Cafe in South Amboy this Saturday night starting at 9pm.

Check out the NN live gigs page for details - see the link here in the upper right column.

Looking forward to seeing you soon again. Be careful on the roads out there this time of year.

Thanks to all who keep live music live and for keeping our shows as exciting and successful as they continue to be.

Keeping it real,

Ned