Coming Thanksgiving Day!!!

American Roots Live Presents the Studio Masters, Volume Two, featuring 16 powerful new originals from HoneyBoy Dupree, Plainfield Slim, Paris James and Corey Small. featuring BIG MACK MASON, LEE FINK & NASTY NED

DOWNLOADS at iTunes, amazon, yahoo music, emusic or any of your favorite cyber stores.

CDs available in-hand at all American Roots LIVE shows, and by speedy mail-order service online at

American Showplace Music's web site - it's click and easy right HERE

paypal and all major credit cards accepted on our secure server

Please visit www.americanshowplacemusic.com/ now and dig:

THE FIRST... the one and the only... Volume One, American Roots Live Presents the Studio Masters, featuring 16 powerful originals from the great Christine Martucci, Aster Pheonyx, John Powers and Nasty Ned.

Scroll down to enjoy John Pfieffer's review of V One.

hear V One music now and make friends at
American Showplace Music's myspace page.

IT"S HERE!!

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

ARL Roots Review 83

Bang. Bang.

In less time than it took the pilgrims to pop-off a couple of turkeys, invite the locals, ingest, digest and recover, we pulled the trigger on a holiday celebration of roots music; a party in two parts, rivaled by no other, that included everybody and left all wanting seconds.

Here's Brother Dave, above, from Manhattan Island who came in with bluesman Jake Walker to dish it out. He's not flippin' you the bird, he's tearin' off a piece of greazy Telecaster, like only he can for everyone to enjoy.

Much to the delight of American Roots Live revellers, New York City's Jake Walker handled an acoustic twelve string as if it were an electric 6 string serving up biting solos and easy to swallow blues with all the trimmings.

I just had to get me some of that good feeling, too so I jumped into the serving line to do my part.

One thing we're all thankful for is that we don't have to wait for one time per year to party... we celebrate all we have to be thankful for twice a week at Orphan Annie's - once every Thursday at 9 and again every Sunday at 8. And there's always plenty of good vibe to go around.

And as if that's not enough, we also celebrate music on Wednesday nights, too, at Writers in Raritan. Here we feature the best singer-songwriters available in solo, acoustic performance of original song.

Writers in Raritan on November 28 is a "can't miss" show.

Do all you can to get to DeCicco's at 10 Anderson St. in Raritan to hear Tommy Fuller, Michael Brett, Chuck Schaeffer and Briz. They'll bear their souls for you, guaranteed and you will go home full and thankful.

ARL 83's playlist included: Jake Walker, Brother Dave, JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, Snakeman Runyan, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Hershall Dow, Mordechai Jones, Paul Marinelli, Ron Seibert, Ed Avilia, Randy Marinelli, Corey Small, Mimi Nowak, Tal Patton, Joe Salerno, Carl Botti, Rob Kopp, Joe DeRogattis, Jon Mei, Stix Obremski, Tommy Toye, Johnny Thompson, Chris O'Sullivan, Roy Macnamara, Dan Brickley, Doug Ivey, Chaz, Gene Goodman, Carl Marcantonio and Rich Keorner.

Thanks to Ed for the photos and all who give live music a good name. Looking forward to seeing you soon again.

Keeping it real,

Ned

Corey Small performs at American Roots Live 83.

ARL Roots Review 82

I can't even begin to explain how much satisfaction I get from promoting and hosting American Roots Live and Writers in Raritan each week.

I have the best job in the world, if that's what you want to call it. I call it fun, fun, fun.

I get to meet and interact with a lot of people, and hear and play with many of the most talented musicians in the area, and upcoming youngsters. I get to present them on stage in combinations with other musicians. Then I get to introduce them to an enthusiastic audience and sit back to soak in the sound. The sweet music. And the audience reaction. Pinch me.

Last week's American Roots Live celebration and our on-going singer-songwriter showcase, Writers in Raritan, were no exceptions.

That's Case Newcomb from New York City (pic: win, above) choosing to rock a chair with his Les Paul. Case tore it up. He's rocked with us before and we're always happy when he's able to join us. Case is a big fan of ARL and we are big fans of his.

We also heard a young, new band who made their American Roots Live debut last week called Command Radio. When I say young, I mean 18 and 19 years old - six talented college students.

A big group with a big sound, Command Radio features sax, trumpet, guitar, bass, drums and lead singer Ryan Egan. Together they threw down some 60's roots-rock with ferocity and some well crafted, timeless-sounding originals that were both refreshing and down right fun!

While on the subject of well crafted originals, Writers in Raritan proved again to be the place to be if you're interested in witnessing very special songwriting talent up-front and personal. Last Wednesday night Tommy Fuller wrote a song on stage, on-the-spot, for the second time in three shows with us, that left our mouths open.

The song, "She's a Soul Girl" - his inspiration - an amazing young woman named Kerry Anderson who stunned us all earlier with her brilliant songcraft and phenomenal, world-class voice.

Beyonce, Marhiah, Whitney, Sarah, Alicia, Jewel... Time out. You've got to hear Kerry Anderson.

Ms. Anderson also proved a very talented musician switching from guitar to piano and back again, accompanying herself - more than aptly.

Tommy Fuller has always been a great performer, but he is also a very special songwriter. Check out his song "Worlds on Fire" at http://www.neilyoung.com/lwwtoday/index.html Last I looked, Tom's video was #1 on 'ol Neil's Living With War web charts.

Wednesday's WiR also featured the witty and passionate songs of John Kasper and Peter Prasa respectively.

The four songwriters will join us again in December. Don't miss them next time. Come, keep the show alive. Visit www.myspace.com/writersinraritan for WiR's upcoming December schedule. Tommy Fuller can be heard again November 28.

ARL 82's playlist included: Case Newcomb, Robert Zee, Ed Pampani, JR Bradfield, Keith Autocunas, Tommy Toye, Hershall Dow, Mordechai Jones, Lisa Batruch, Carlo Trentacosta, Joe Salerno, Randy Marinelli, Johnny Thompson, Dutch Kopp, Randy Smith, John Mei, Command Radio, Sticks Obremski, Paul Marinelli, Chris Mongiello, Evan Miggs, Big Boy Kenny Nerbak, Ron Seibert, Ed Zrock, Carl Marcantonio, Rich Keorner, and Tal Patton.

Thanks to all who help keep the music alive; Orphan Annie's, Rick, Karin; DeCicco's, Denise, Joe; JR Bradfield, John Powers, Chuck Wegman, Ed Pampani, Richard Skelly, Freddie Fry and Win.

See you soon again, huh?. Please come and support our shows - you'll be happy you did.

Keeping it real,

Ned


















Kerry Anderson to perform Writers in Raritan in December.

ARL Roots Review 81

What a wonderful week of music.

It started Wednesday at Writers in Raritan with John Powers and Aster Pheonyx (pic) dealing strong songcraft in solo, acoustic performance with Jim Popik and Kevin Reavey - then me and Bradfield and Jim Popik really getting into something at the end.

Aster Pheonyx, who you'll hear more of in the future, is where passion and pain meets "strong songwriting and dynamic vocals". Watch for good things for her.

Thursday's American Roots Live 81 was a talent packed, horse-choking line-up of great musicians all showin' their stuff, starting with Johnny Charles, Kim Brewer, JR Bradfield ,Ed Pampani, Tommy Toye, Tony Pilleggi, Bobby Z, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Ron Seibert, Dice; Rich, George and Al Pilleggi. Randy Marinelli, Hershall Dow, Mordechai Jones, Steve Pozz, Rich Keorner, Carl Marcantonio, Corey Small, Ed Avilia, George Nicola, Jerry Lanza, Rob Bianco and Ernie Fortunato.

Continued fun Friday night when I joined the DelRosso Experience at the Blue Moon Cafe and laid it down all night with Bob DelRosso, Vinnie Capodice and Kevin Brennan with a sit-in visit from ol' 88's Jim Beckerman. What a groove...

Then Saturday night at the Stanhope House hearing the magnificant Jo Wymer & the Itty Bitty Band open for Christine Martucci Band, who put a solid ass whoopin' on the house with two and a half solid hours of good rockin originals and big Janis gems. Damn that girl can sing and them boys can play!


Sunday night American Roots Live 81 featured a cool new band, Reality Addiction. Dustin (pic), Adam, Robby, and Jonathon brought a good sound, a good vibe and good originals.

The night's playlist included a young new friend from Oxford, NJ on guitar named Justin Kamm, then JR Bradfield, Evan Miggs, Ed Pampani, "Phishboy" Keith Autocunas, Ron Seibert, Sticks Obremski, Chris Mongiello, Carl Marcantonio, Rich Keorner, Mike Coyle, Phil Liebergall and Gene Goodman.

Thanks to Win for the "timed" ARL 80 group photo that'll hang on the "Wall of Fame" at Orphan Annie's. That's Win, down low in the foreground and HoneyBoy Dupree on the cell phone. Can you find yourself here?

Thanks again to all the folks who work hard to keep the music alive. And Ed Pampani for the Live pics.

See you soon.

Keeping it real,

Ned

Justin Kamm plays American Roots Live 81.

ARL Roots Review 80

November 1, 2007 was the American Roots Live All Stars "autographed guitar" give-away... and the winner... C. Roderick Black of Westfield, NJ.

Congratulations Rod!!

Heartfelt thanks to all of the ARL All Stars who performed on our stage and scribed the body of that beautiful guitar - and thanks to all the fans and hopefuls who tried to win it. Our drum kit is now almost half paid for!

Along with the fun of having our group photo taken by Win - all of us squeezed on the stage - we were treated to some serious performances at ARL 80.


Tony Santos & His Blues Conspiracy drove in from New York City to heat our house.

Tony Santos; guitar and DH Randi playing guitar with Pinky Mendez on Bass, Michael Lincoln on Drums and Bagel blowin the harp, flat out torched the room with a little help from Len DePiano.


High energy Alphabet City blues was the name of the game and Pinky Mendez was dealin'.





The fun never stops at American Roots Live.

It is where you should be on Thursday and Sunday nights. Whether you are a musician or music fan - we got what you're looking for.

Besides, you wouldn't want to miss our show and take the chance of having some miss put a spell on you. Would you?

I didn't think so...



And on every Wednesday you should point yourself toward Writers in Raritan, the solo, acoustic, original music, singer-songwriter showcase at DeCicco's, 10 Anderson St. in Raritan, NJ.

Last week was another exposition of songcraft and culture. A magical night featuring Tommy Fuller, Robert Zee, Peter Prasa and JR Bradfield. Check out WiR on myspace here


American Roots Live 80 featured stellar band and solo showcases from newcomers and old favorites, impromptu jams by players who regularly hook up together and those sitting in with other players for the first time. Check out ARL on myspace here


ARL 80's playlist read Tony Santos & His Blues Conspiracy, JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, Hershall Dow, Mordechai Jones (pictured right), Len DePiano, the hard rockin' Spider Lily; Jeri, Lisa and Lucky, Ed Avilia, The Mad Hatters with Phishboy Keith Autocunas and Lisa Batruch, Carlo Trentacosta, Tom Mac, Tommy Toye, Chris O'Sullivan, Johnny Thompson, Bones Sanford, Nick Conti, Frank Cerulli, Ron Seibert, The Mark Bodino Band; Mark, Jack and Bob, The Congregation; Chuck and Evil Dick, Snakeman Runyan, Chris Mongiello, and Randy Marinelli who some are trying real hard to knick name.

Among the suggestions are Duran Durandy, RanDMC and Ed PampRandi... Any other ideas?

(Lucky pictured left)

Thanks to all who, each week, help keep American Roots Live running, and in the process - help keep the music alive; Orphan Annie's, Rick, Karin, Rich, JR Bradfield, John Powers, Win and Ed Pampani (for all of these photos) - and... YOU.

See you soon again.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review 79

We did it again last week - got together Thursday and Sunday at American Roots Live, plugged in and had a blast. Blues, country, jam, R&B and outer-space - it's all good! Lots of smiles and high fives.


And again ARL presented "Writers in Raritan" on Wednesday; the pre-booked solo, acoustic, original, singer-songwriter showcase series that featured the Asbury Park Five - George Wirth, Sheli Aarden, Michael Brett, Jo Wymer and Aster Pheonyx. Each one of them was fantastic!

The week before that WiR featured John Powers, Robert Ross, Bruce Jepson, Peter Prasa and the Wiliamzboy - and each of them was Fantastic!

Don't miss the next one!

Yeah buddy, lots of great music being made around here. I suggest, if you haven't done so already, get over to www.nastyned.com and leave your email address for me so I can keep you informed on all the great upcoming events.

Remember, November 1st is special at American Roots Live as it is the night of the ARL All Stars autographed guitar raffle drawing. The guitar is covered front and back with the signatures of some of the most awesomely talented people around. A real collectors piece. If you want a chance to win this guitar, come early Thursday and get your tickets before the drawing.

November 1st will also feature a smokin' blues showcase by New York City's Tony Santos & His Blues Conspiracy with Pinky Mendez and the 1st is group photo night.

Come get in the picture and be forever memorialized on the Orphan Annie's wall of fame.

ARL 79's playlist read:Mimi Nowak, JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, Ron Seibert, Al, George and Rich of The Dice from Jackson, NJ., Robert Zee, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Carlo Trentacosta, Ed Avilia, Bones Sanford, Carl Marcantonio, Rob Bianco, Rich Keorner, Grady Frederick, Frank Cerulli, Chris Mongiello, Stix Obremski, Gene Goodman, John Listori, Mordichai and the return of Hershall Dow - way to go!

Thanks to all who help our shows happen each week and we hope to see you all soon again.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review 78

We had lots of great music by passionate musicians last week. Some new-comers, some regulars and some old friends we haven't seen in a while.


Young Joe DeRogatis (right) sings some old school R&B.










We introduced Kayka for the first time at American Roots Live as she kicked ass with some 50's blues done 60's style with a new millennium attitude accompanied by Ed Avilia on bass, Ed Pampani on drums and our new friend Mike Coyle playing harmonica.







ARL 78 kicked off with lots of people sharing Edgar and Johnny Winter stories as at least a dozen American Rooters made the Winter's show at Starland Ballroom after winning tickets for the concert last week at ARL 77 thanks to Blueskid.


On Sunday more than 40 musicians, including seven bands came together during our twelve hour marathon to raise money for the Eden Institute in Princeton at our Roots Rockin Riders Bikers Benefit for Autism co hosted by Flock Promotions. During the day the name Bernie Brauseswetter was respectfully evoked, numerous times, as we all knew if BB were still with us, he'd be there too helping out for a good cause as he so often did.

Many thanks to all the musicians who came to help, all audience members for their support, Orphan Annie's for the venue and good vibe and to AJ, Lee and Frankie for their unwavering, tireless work for the Eden Institute - and special thanks to my friend and yours, co-host JR Bradfield.


American Roots Live's combined playlist read: Joe DeRogatis, Robert Zee, JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, Mimi Nowak, Ed Avilia, Johnny Thompson, Tim Ludwig, Dave Alles, Mike Coyle, Kayka, Randy Marinelli, Carlo Trentacosta, Carl Marcantonio, Spider Lilly, Bones Sanford, Gene Gagliardi, Mike Carroll, Frank Cerulli, Ryan Maas, Johnny Thompson Band, Phil Leibergall with Phil n' the Blanks, The Congregation: Chuck Wegman, Evil Dick, Sal and Rich, The Dogs: Lee Fink, Mike Flynn, Gene Downin, Jake Jar el, Jerry Lanza (below),The Jerry Lanza Band: Ray DiGiovanni, Tito, Chris O'Sullivan, Ed Avilia, Johnny Charles & the Straight 8 Blues Kings, Bradfield, Kim Brewer, Jamo Flynn, Katmandu, Tal, Rich, Randy, Jeff Kesili, Vinnie Capodice, Snakeman Runyan, Tom Cucciara, Keith Autocunas, Ron Seibert, Tommy Toye, Joe Colucci, Roy Macnamara, Peter Malliss, Chaz and Jimmy Farkas.


Many thanks to all who make American Roots Live the place to be week after week, OA's, Annie, Frank, Rick, Karin, Joe, Rich, Bradfield, Powers, Macnamara, Nowak and especially Win and Ed for the great photos.

We all wish Hershall Dow a quick recovery and quick return to the show - God speed brother.

See you soon again.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review 76

American Roots LIVE with Nasty Ned...

there is absolutely no other show like it anywhere!


Don't be fooled by imitations.

American Roots Live is not a typical run-of-the-mill open mic or open jam. It's a legitimate show in a legitimate music room - and it's the longest running of its kind.

American Roots Live stands for roots music preservation.

ARL is an equal opportunity celebration of the music and a place you can bring your children to share in the fun. It's for passing the torch to the next generation in an effort to keep the fire burning AND to create an outlet for players to play and network as our "live" music scene is shrinking. Music venues are dying off one by one at an alarming rate.

American Roots Live appreciates and recognizes the contributions of its participants. ARL puts everyone in the spotlight making everybody an All Star. And every musician making a contribution is invited to sign the ARL All Stars autographed guitar.

American Roots Live puts every one's name in print right here in our weekly roots reviews recognizing their tremendous performances - in this case our new friend and featured artist, Pinky Mendez from New York City (pic below).


Bass warrior Pinky Mendez regularly plays with my "big apple" brother, Tony Santos & the Blues Conspiracy. We look forward to seeing and hearing Tony at ARL soon,too.

American Roots Live also has official photographers and is the only show of its kind where you can perform one week - come back the following week and possibly take home a beautiful color print of your performance the week before - for free!

American Roots Live doesn't just have its hand out for the sake of gathering donations. ARL, now approaching its 77th week, passes the bucket to keep the show going and always gives something back to the people. Fans and players alike win music CDs, harmonicas, T shirts and other great prizes each week.

Last week we gave away Delbert McClinton and a number of Elmore Magazine CD samplers featuring John Mayall, Eric Clapton, John Lee Hooker, Roy Orbison and more. In previous weeks; the Allman Brothers, Al Green, Muddy Waters, Aretha Franklin, 25 Years of R&B, 25 Years of Soul, T Bone Walker, BB King, lots of great new music CDs from our many All Stars and on and on.

American Roots Live is where you have a chance to take home autographed guitars. We've given away two so far and our third guitar give-away happens November 1. Tickets are still available, but going fast so hurry out for your chance to take home the Austin electric strat autographed by so many: Nasty Ned, John Powers, Johnny Charles, Jamo Flynn, Lee Fink, Phoenix Arizona's HoneyBoy Dupree, Bob DelRosso, Arne Englund, Rob Fraser, Gene Goodman, Dean Schot, Pinky Mendez, members of the Congregation, members of Cleaver June, Mimi Nowak, Roy Macnamara, Nancy Coletti, Lori V, Hershall Dow, Ron Michaels, north Georgia's Smokestack the Foothill Fury, Toronto Canada's Vanderpark, Covington Kentucky's Fickle and many, many, many more.

You do not have to be present to win!

And on November 1st you are ALL welcome to come and get on stage for a group photo shoot - our framed American Roots Live All Stars group photo will hang on the "wall of fame" at Orphan Annie's. Will you be in it? (Don't miss this opportunity. Watch for more details to follow right here).


Yep, never be fooled by imitations. There is only one American Roots Live. It happens every Thursday and Sunday at Orphan Annie's and it's hosted by yours truly. There really is no other show like it anywhere on any night, guaranteed.






ARL 76's playlist read: JR Bradfield, Mimi Nowak, Ed Pampani, Len DePiano, Bones Sanford, Rotten Robert, Carlo Trentacosta, Robert Zee, Randy Marinelli, Mordecai, Hershall Dow, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Jerry Lanza, Roy Macnamara, Mike Carroll, Dave Frant, Gene Gagliardi, Ed Avilia, Doug Deittmann, Carl Marcantonio and Rich Koerner, Jim Sventy, Pinky Mendez, Bob DelRosso, Larry Lip (pic left), Tommy Toye, Sticks Obremski, Al Marchitto, Nick Lavirtano, and Frank Cerulli. That's 32 musicians and singers coming together on one stage in the name of the music - awesome. Oh, and adding me is 33.

Thanks to all who make ARL a "one of a kind" - Orphan Annie's, Rick, Karin, Ashley, JR Bradfield, John Powers and Win and Ed for the photos.

If you read and enjoy these Roots Reviews, please email me here let me know who you are. Please let me know if you have any suggestions to make this page OR our show better or just to say hello. I'd love to hear from you. Thanks.

See you soon my friend.

Keeping it real,

Ned

ARL Roots Review 75

Wow, what a week ARL 75 was. A week of new friends, horns and GIRL power!




New friend, singer/guitarist Ed Saultz from Philipsburgh, NJ performed a solo set. In touch with his roots, Ed played songs that evidenced the European influence on American roots music. Very enjoyable.

We met Mordeci who joined good 'ol Hershall Dow on stage with Randy Marinelli, and as I said earlier - GIRL power.

Roy Macnamara took the stage with a back-up band comprised almost entirely of women. Lisa Lewis on Drums, Cat Viksne playing fiddle, Lisa Batruch and her Jembi drum shared vocals with Mimi Nowak and Lucky and our new friend Sandy Lynne on saxophone - oh, and JR Bradfield played bass.

After a while Lisa switched to guitar and the women took over the stage, employing Bradfield on bass and Randy to play drums.

American Roots Live 75's playlist read: John Powers, JR Bradfield, Ed Pampani, Mimi Nowak, Bones Sandford, Ed Saultz, Robert Zee, Joe Salerno, Hershall Dow, Johnny Thompson, Howard Cohen, Mordeci, Carlo Trentacosta, Keith McGonigle, Randy Marinelli, Chaz, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Phil Leibergall, Frank Cerulli, Roy Macnamara, Doug Deittmann, Johnny Charles, Paul Obremski, Ron Michaels, Cat Viksne, Sandy Lynne, Tommy Toy, Vinni Capodice, Lucky, Lisa Lewis, Carl Marcantonio and Rich Koerner.
Thanks to Orphan Annie's, Rick, Karin, Win and Ed.

Remember the Roots Rockin' Riders Bikers' Benefit for Autism October 21 (see poster below.) And I'll see you soon again at American Roots Live with Nasty Ned.

Keeping it real,

Ned

P.S. get hip to... Writers in Raritan at www.myspace.com/writersinraritan

ARL Roots Review 71

Behold the talking guitar. It speaks volumes for the fun and excitement that has taken place on the American Roots Live stage, and for all of the talented musicians who have come together in the name of "live music" and "roots music preservation".


It also bears the autographs of those talented and diversely interesting players - some, the finest in the country - who have stepped onto the ARL stage over the last three months to entertain audiences and themselves with live roots rockin' fun, while in some cases, forging new bonds with musicians they've never played with before!

Would you like this "talking" guitar to come and live with you? It can happen. Because the purpose of this guitar and all of its significant signatures, is to raise money for new American Roots Live stage equipment so the magic may continue uninterrupted as it does week after week.

Please support American Roots Live by coming out with your friends; enjoy the music, the food, the adult beverages and purchase a chance or two to win this awesome, real-live, electric guitar. Raffle chances are only $3 per, two for $5 or five for $10 AND you do not have to be present to win. The big raffle is right around the corner and the exact date will be announced soon.

Come to a show on any Thursday or Sunday night at Orphan Annie's in Stirling, NJ and I'll explain how simply it works AND while you're there you may be witness to one of the most exciting impromptu performances you have ever heard.

ARL 71 was no exception as we played host to some big Dogs and a big dude: Mike Flynn and Lee Fink of Nasty Ned & the Dogs and Fred Saunders of the VooDUDES. (left to right below; pic:win)



These three, with 16 strings between them, put on a virtual clinic. The place rocked with mouths agape as sweet swirling sounds filled the room. Mike, Lee and Freddie had fun on stage for close to an hour while we rotated different drummers, singers, keyboardists and harp players on and off the stage so all could get a piece of playing with the dynamic trio.

The ARL playlist read: Ed Pampani, JR Bradfield, Len DePiano, Mimi Nowak, Phil 'n the Blanks, Robert Zee, Freddie Saunders, Bones Sanford, Ron Seibert, Lee Fink, Mike Flynn, Chris O'Sullivan, Chet Smith, Keith Autocunas, Lisa Batruch, Ed Avilia, Randy Marinelli, Phil Leibergall, Frank Cerulli, Jamo Flynn, Nick Conti, Bob DelRosso, Carl Marcantonio, Rich Koerner, Gene Goodman, Bill Ceseni, Roy Macnamara, Joe Salerno, Janet and John of Critical Mass, Chaz, Todd Lanka, Bob Giglio, and Tom Toye.




Many thanks to all who help make ARL possible Rick, Frank, Annie, Joe, Sandy, Karin, Ed Pampani and win for the pics. And congratulations to Tim Bridge for winning the Orphan Annie's Labor Day guitar give-away compliments of Heineken.

Hope to see you again soon. Don't miss what the talking guitar is going to say next.

Keeping it real,

Ned

PS - Coming to American Roots Live 72 Sunday, September 9th will be Smokestack the Foothill Fury, all the way from the north Georgia hills. He's a gas - don't miss him.

ARL Roots Review 69

Hint... Not just for musicians anymore!

Actually, it never was but truth be known, there have been more music makers than music fans at American Roots Live with Nasty Ned lately as word spreads within the musician's community that ARL is the place to be if you're a musician who wants to have fun playing with other musicians (not that that's a bad thing, but duh... there are deserving music fans out there missing some seriously over the top sound and performance - if you know them, please notify them.)

Because when top notch musicians get together with other top notch musicians, well... it's where you want to be if you are a music fan - then, when you consider the good food and drink at Orphan Annie's and the cool music prizes we give away on stage and... well... there is no other show like it anywhere!

Here, The Congregation filled our room with a higher power of sound Sunday night at ARL 68. You wanna talk about fun - OMG! A music fan's prayers answered.




Then, Thursday we picked up right where we left off the previous week with American Roots Live 69 as Carlo Trentacosta did his Blind Willie Johnson slide thing - and we all came together again in the name of music at Orphan Annie's.



Groove bassist extraodinare, Todd Lanka had more than just fun on his mind when he showed up Thursday night carrying a guitar. Wanting to air it out on the six strings - he then eyed Bertha laying across the floor.






So he put down his guitar, picked up Bertha and slapped her around for awhile as I blew harp and Bradfield plunked Stumpy...

No. No big women were hurt in the celebration of roots music this night - Bertha is JR Bradfield's upright acoustic bass and Stumpy is the guitar he built using a banjo ring, dobro resonator, a few wires, some snakeskin and a hunk of tree stump from his back yard. (JR and Todd pictured below with Stumpy and Bertha.)



















Then, Sunday night's ARL 69 was down right dilly-icious as Basking Ridge, NJ's Frank, Neil and Amanda showed up to perform their newly formed trio called Dilly. Brightly twanging acoustic guitars and Amanda's soaring voice kept a good sized crowd satisfied.


We hope Dilly comes back soon as I forgot to have them autograph the ARL All Stars signature guitar - which will be raffled-off at the end of the summer.

Raffle tickets are going fast for the September drawing, so please don't say I didn't warn you. If you want to win that autographed guitar, come and get your $3 raffle tickets before they're all gone. You don't have to be present to win and you can buy as many tickets as you like before the roll runs out - only what's left of this first role of tickets will be sold.

American Roots Live 69's playlist read: Bones Sanford, Ed Pampani, Len DePiano, Robert Zee, Carlo Trentacosta, Mimi Nowak, Keith Autocuna, Lisa Batruch, Jerry Fabris, Garry Hodgson, Peter Maillis, Amy Franza, Ron Seiberg, Todd Lanka, Paul Obremski, Ed Avilia, Bob Del Rosso, JR Bradfield, Phil Leibergal, Jamo Flynn, Dilly, Joe Salerno, Gene Goodman, Chaz, Mike Carroll, Doug Deittmann and young Joe the singing bartender.








Me and JR Bradfield would like to thank everyone who make this celebration of roots music possible: Orphan Annie's, Rick, Karin, Frank & Annie, BluezKid, Win and Ed Pampani for the photos, John Powers, Stevie and, well... you. Thanks.


Hope we see you again soon and if you know any music fans - do them a favor - bring 'em.

Keeping it real,

Ned