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 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