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Welcome
Hi, my name is Jessi and I'm an independent musician in the NYC area. I also write articles for Urban Folk magazine, design web pages, create fliers, and do various other music and technology related tasks. Please visit my Indie Music Resources blog for more. Meanwhile, Drawing Pretty Things is my big, giant archive for all things Jessi (in blog form).
September Concert is a series of free concerts, organized by individuals, schools, businesses, and associations - - to bring communities together
- - to reaffirm our hope for peace
- - to celebrate life and our universal humanity
"After silence, that which comes nearest
to expressing the inexpressible is music.""
Inspired by these words of Aldous Huxley, The September Concert was born in 2002 on the first anniversary of 9/11. Since then, on each anniversary our message of peace through music has spread further and further. In 2006 we organized 225 individual concerts with more than 3,400 performers. In addition to 100 concerts in New York City, 50 U.S. cities hosted concerts as well as 35 international cities. All concerts adhere to three basic principles: - * Freedom: All venues and musicians are free to design
and organize their own concerts. - * Equality: All music and all musicians are treated equally,
regardless of genre or background. - * Accessibility: All music is offered free of charge.
This will be my fourth year curating for the September Concert. The first year was at Bar4. I think the lovely Crystal Brandt played that night and Bethany from the Feverfew. The second year was at Cornelia St. Cafe. Nick Howard and Ellie Lawson also played that evening. The third yeas was at Rockwood Music Hall in collaboration with Alloy Radio and Local Correspondents. I had so much support from everyone and it was the first year that I helped to choose all the artists. This year I return to Rockwood Music Hall, with the help of the Local Correspondents Team. September 11th starting at 6pm there will be a stellar line-up of musicians sharing their music to promote healing and community. 6pm - 1am Joe Wilson Matt Singer Paul Basile Ivan Sandomire Tom Hayes Paula Valstein Kevin Johnston Tarrah Reynolds Tanya Buziak No Lindsay Jessi Chelsea Lynn LaBate Steve Waitt If you are a musician, venue, or promoter, I strongly urge you to get involved with this community event. Please visit the site at http://septemberconcert.org for more information on September Concert. Categories: September, Concert, Events, Shows, Neighborhood, Community, Local, Correspondents
It took me awhile to get to writing this recap, because I'm a little sad now that the festival is over. For four days I was in the company of some of my favorite people and treated to the best local music in NYC. It's a little hard to recover from. And now, my everyday life has resumed.
Saturday was in many ways a magical night. Some friends of mine had just arrived from the UK and I think seeing their reactions to the music made it even more special for me. Holly filmed the evening and interviewed musicians out on the sidewalk. Tanya and I were a bit camera shy, so we shared an interview and then we couldn't stop talking.
Mikey Die started off the night with a subtle, understated vocal style that is unusual and lovely. Lara Ewen followed, with sweet, timeless songs from her recently released album. Then Bryan Dunn. Oh Bryan Dunn, thank you for playing the BEST cover version in the world of Prince's "Kiss"! I love you forever for doing that. And I also enjoyed Bryan's original songs like "Geraldine" and "AudioStereoRadio."
Next up, Andy Mac! Andy always makes me smile. I can't help it, it's infectious. Beautiful vocals from Jennie Muoio. Big, bad bass from Jim McNamara. Sigh (of goodness)! The magnificent Casey Shea played some gorgeous songs, accompanied by Jeff Jacobson. There was a beautiful moment where the entire bar was singing "Roll Your Windows Down." Everyone was participating and joining their voices together. It gave me shivers. Every time I hear Jeff Jacobson play I fall more and more in love with his voice and songs. When he played "Castles" I think everyone in the bar was singing and tapping things and stomping their feet. It was riotous and sweet.
Wakey! Wakey! played some mean, mean piano and belted out his unrelenting melodies. War Sweater is one of my favorite songs. When I first heard Mike whisper "cuz we fucked it all up" this gleeful dark chill went down my spine. His delivery is flawless. That song has such dynamic tension. Matt Singer had the entire room giggling with his song about the American Idol contestant. Let me just tell you, he is a naughty man and I love him for it. Matt is probably the best lyricist I've met in NY. Which makes me very jealous, but still full of love.
Oh and then The Picture played. How can I explain my Picture love.... hmm. Well, their last album spins religiously on my iPod. RE-LI-GIOUS-LY. It is such an addictive album. Their songs have these amazing emotional high points that draw you in. You can't stop from singing the lines at the top of your lungs. Even though you know you may look and sound a little silly. You just get lost in it and you don't care. (PS - Their CD Release party is next Friday July 20th at Mercury Lounge. Lowry and Blip Blip Bleep are on the bill! Woot!)
Only Paula Valstein can quiet a bar full of Saturday night drinkers. I was a bit worried because the bar had hit a loud point as she was setting up. I told her I would beat them into submission if she needed me to. But the girl sang one blissful note and the entire bar was in love with her. Then she proceeded to ROCK OUT! Absolutely beautiful. And my Irish friend Tom Hayes. Tom is an adorable, lovely, sweet man with incredible talent. His voice is a true instrument with a distinct timbre. Don't even get me started on the way the boy floats out melismas. I am envious of the way he can hit a dozen notes without missing a pitch on a breath.
Gene Back played the best show I have ever seen him play. He was confident and pretty much owned the stage. His joy in playing was contagious. It was so nice to hear him get on that piano. I love watching him play guitar... and violin... and piano... ok, you get the point.
Finally, last but definitely not least, Jeff Schram (you must imagine yourself singing "Jeff Schram" to the tune of BATMAN while you are reading this blog). I am a huge fan of Jeff's new songs, like "False Alarm." Don't get me wrong, I love me some "Devil Ain't Got a Chance" but I think Jeff has really come into his own with the release of his latest recording. The songwriting is brilliant and he has written some very intense and intricate melodic structures.
But now I am winding down, coming to the end of the night's recap. Ah, I was just reliving it all for a moment. Well, there's always next year for the 2nd Annual Fest, and it can't come soon enough in my opinion.
Love and Kudos to:
The PERFORMERS: Mikey Die, Lara Ewen, Bryan Dunn, Andy Mac, Casey Shea, Jeff Jacobson, Wakey! Wakey!, Matt Singer, The Picture, Paula Valstein, Tom Hayes, Gene Back, and Jeff Schram.
Holly - Thanks so much for being there all night to capture it on film!
Larry, Peter, and Ted - You have the best music venues in Brooklyn, hands down. Your commitment to supporting and encouraging artists is exceptional. The venues are beautiful, but it would not be the same without the feeling of warmth and family that you bring to everything you do. I have so much respect for you. Thank you!
Tanya Buziak - My partner in shushing! The originator of the open mic! You have helped so many people develop and believe in themselves. You have literally changed people's lives and that must be such a good feeling. I know you keep insanely busy, so you probably don't have time to sit back and think about it, but you should be extremely proud and satisfied with what you've accomplished.
Greg Tuohey - I would not have survived this whole thing without you. Remember back in the day when you thought up the showcase idea? (People, don't forget to give Greg his props! He is a huge part of the LC Team! Just wanted to remind you, Greg is the biznizzle.) I think you also hold the record for playing with the most acts in the festival. Everyone wants you by their side, because you feel their music, you get it and you add something beautiful to it. I miss it when you're not playing with me. If only we could clone you, because you are bound to be even busier after this! I believe you are the most in demand guitarist in NY. And you are also one of my favorite, favorite people. Mwah!
Sorry this took so long guys. I needed a little vacation after the LC Fest.
The Friday show could not have gone smoother. Everyone sounded amazing, and the night flowed seamlessly. This was a night with a lot of friends and artists that have been involved in Local Correspondents from the start, plus a few newer people that play frequently at Matchless and Bar4. One of the things I really appreciated is how many performers came early and stayed late. It really shows how supportive a community LC has become. This was the longest night, with fourteen performers but it flew by for me. I was excited to see old friends like Keith Varick and Joe Wilson. And I have to say Olga (Bell) deserves huge thanks for coming out and playing late after she spent the day moving.
Thanks to everyone who made this night possible:
Performers: Peter Inc, Keith Varick, Sami Akbari, Joe Wilson, Sean Han, Red Orange Morning, Zach Williams, Daniel Wayne, Matt Cranstoun, The Reverend John DeLore (& Kara, Aya, Steve), Bell, Mark Yodice, Austin Donahue, FK Ridge
Larry, Ted, and Peter: Thank you again for welcoming and supporting all the musicians and artists in your lovely venues.
Tanya: The hardest working woman in Music! You always point out the new people that I should pay attention to. You have a great ear for music.
Niko: Amazing sound as always!
Greg: My musical genius.
I want LC Festival t-shirts. This is indeed a music festival and Day Two surpassed everyone's expectation. At times, the place was so packed you could hardly find a place to stand. There were some unexpected treats, like Here Lies Pa putting in a full band appearance, Kevin Johnston breaking out the trombone, and Lowry fitting all six members on stage and sounding like pure gold. It was fun to see people within the group collaborating, like Tanya Buziak singing on a David Shane Smith song, Matt Cranstoun playing the drums for Tanya, Greg playing guitar with Ivan Sandomire. AND I finally got to hear God Fires Man play!
I feel the momentum building and am excited for what the next two days will bring. It was so exciting to be a part of the events last night. I feel so proud of everyone and am impressed with how great Bar4 sounds, and the possibilities for having full bands play.
Again, love to the following people:
Performers: Matthew Peverly, Here Lies Pa, Willie Breeding, David Shane Smith, Takenobu, Lowry, Kevin Johnston / Adios Esposito, Owen McCarthy, Tanya Buziak, Ivan Sandomire, Frank Hoier, Debe Dalton, God Fires Man (acoustic).
Larry, Ted, and Peter: Your place is awesome! I can't wait to do a full set myself. It's such a great venue and the artists and neighborhood will benefit greatly because of your efforts.
Tanya: You help keep everything running smooth each night. You sounded amazing and you made all the performers feel at home.
Niko: The King of Live Sound. That is what I shall dub you Niko. You worked so hard last night. Somehow navigating through the crowd and keeping everything together.
Greg: Always in it for the long haul. You are my favorite guitarist, bartender, and roommate.
Day One
Last night was the first evening of the 1st Annual Local Correspondents Music Festival and New Bar4 Party. I actually think it was the best night of my life, and can only look forward to the next three days with boundless anticipation. All the artists that performed were exceptionally talented. Tanya and I talked after the show, about how if people would have told us two years ago that these artists would be our friends, peers, and part of our urban family... we'd never believe it.
There was such a warm and welcoming vibe in the room last night, and even when people came in for a drink rather than the festival, they entered into the spirit of the night. Bar4 is so different now with brick walls exposed, the stage area extended, higher ceilings, and the lovely piano. But one thing that hasn't changed is the relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.
13 artists performed yesterday, and we stayed absolutely on schedule and ended the night on time. That has got to be the first time ever in history that an event involving musicians ended on time. I was not only delighted with everyone's stunning performances, but I was proud of everyone's courteous behavior.
By the end of the evening I was just beaming. Tonight is another ridiculously stellar line-up and I'm already getting excited to see everyone perform! For a full list of artists, check out www.localcorrespondents.com!
Shout Outs:
Performers: Many thanks to Jamie Rae, Michael Wagner, Merrady (& Gene Back), MaryEllen DeVaux, Well-Enough Folk Band (Helen, Tom, & Tanya), Tarrah Reynolds, Johnny Marnell, Heidi Sidelinker, The Human Problem, John Simonelli, Jonah Bleicher, and Rob of No Lindsay. You all blew me away last night. You are at the heart of the LC Community and you made our first night a resounding success!
Larry, Ted, and Peter: Thank you for creating this beautiful Brooklyn venue and for welcoming artists and musicians in your establishments. Your support and encouragement has blessed me in so many ways.
Tanya: I have so much admiration and respect for you. None of this would be happening right now if not for the energy and hard work you've invested tirelessly in the open mic nights and LC showcases.
Niko: You are the best sound engineer ever! You made this whole night run like clockwork.
Greg: Thank you for only letting me have one adult beverage per hour, for playing an awesome set with me, and for coming up with the great idea to have live music showcases at Bar4.
LC Team (Larry, Tanya, Greg): You should be so proud of what you've accomplished.
My loyal readers: Sorry, I realize this is all gushy and sentimental. But last night literally rocked my world and props are in order. Come out tonight and you'll know exactly what I mean.
Bar4 is my favorite place to hang out and has recently gotten a makeover. There's a new extended stage, professional lighting, and an upright piano. I predict the already cozy neighborhood bar is on its way to becoming the best venue in Brooklyn for singer/songwriters and acoustic bands.
This week the Local Correspondents Community presents their 1st Annual Music Festival at Bar4. 4 nights with 52 local indie acts. Work by local artist Amy Shawley will also be featured.
All shows are free!
Day One
Wednesday June 27th, 7:30am - 2:00am
Day Two
Thursday June 28th, 7:30am - 2:00am
Day Three
Friday June 29th, 7:30am - 2:00am
Day Four
Saturday June 30th, 7:30am - 2:00am
Categories: Bar4, Art, LC, Local, Correspondents, Brooklyn, Music, Events, Shows, Festival
Best Thai Food: Amarin Cafe in Greenpoint, Beet in Park Slope
Watch out! At Amarin, medium spicy equates to my eyes are tearing and I need to clear my throat. The food is fresh and spicy and absolutely delicious. The ambiance is a little lacking. Take out is the way to go. Beet is beautiful inside. The food is reasonably priced and tasty. I suggest eating in or pick-up because delivery can take up to an hour.
Best Bars: Bar4 in Park Slope, Matchless in Greenpoint
It's a tie between my two favorite Brooklyn neighborhoods. Bar4 is a cozy place to hear live music and features paintings and photography by local artists. Matchless is a sports bar turned music venue with a great selection of beers on tap. The sound in the main music room is crystal clear. Right next to lovely McCarren Park.
Best Sushi: Kiku in Park Slope
The edamame is always tender and piping hot. Definitely try the Red Dragon roll. Take out only.
Best Walk: Past the beautiful brownstones between 6th and 11th in Park Slope
Now is the perfect time while all the trees are flowering. Evening and gas lights and drifting petals. Exquisite. Of course, Prospect Park and the Botanical Gardens are lovely as well.
Categories: Neighborhood, Brooklyn, ParkSlope, Greenpoint, Reviews, BestOf, Food, Bars, Sushi, Walks
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