The Barley Hoppers bring the Southern Heat with their Self-Titled Album By Kirsten Perry

A “hopper” is a container for a bulk material such as grain, and barley just so happens to be a grain. Place these two words next to each other, they go beyond their literal grainy meanings and create the title of a band that has been said to “burn up” stages playing an infectious country, rockabilly, and a rock ‘n’ roll style of music.

The Barley Hoppers, Stan Kozlowski on vocals and rhythm guitar, Ray Reniere on lead guitar and backing vocals, and Mike Volatile on Upright Bass deliver their red-hot bluegrass styling on their self- titled album. Produced by Joe Moody at Danger Multitrack Records in Providence, the compilation is a short and sweet twelve track album with only a single song breaking three minutes. However short the tracks may be each one delivers two-stepping tunes that make sitting still nearly impossible. Much of the album offers upbeat foot-tappers, apart from the track “Lonesome Train” which slows things down and shows a softer side of the Barley Hoppers.

Other instruments used in the album include a fiddle, a steel guitar, a harp, a snare drum, and a banana box (yes, a banana box). In contrast to the large repertoire of instruments, the Barley Hoppers lyrics stay simple, yet catchy and cleverly written with lines like, “Well I’m hardly ever broke, but I’m usually always spent, when it comes to lovin’, baby I don’t need a cent” from the third track “Servant of Love”.

Despite their Providence roots, listening to the Barley Hopper’s CD is like traveling through time and space, into the late ‘50s southern music scene during the early days of Johnny Cash and The Tennessee From the beginning of the album the band’s opening track “Ridin’ with My Baby” written by Reniere, exemplifies their instrumental talents and sets the tone for the tracks that follow. Catch the bluegrass party around through the rest of July…

Uncle Ronnie’s Red Tavern, Harrisville – July 18th @ 9:00pm

Duffy’s Tavern, North Kingstown – July 20th @ 8:00pm Foster Center, Foster – July 27th @ 3:00pm

The Stadium Pub, Cranston – July 30th @ 7:00pm

Roots Report: Cruel Summer Breeze

National and Local Music Surround Rhode Island Summer

Okee dokee folks … I know I say this every year; summer is NOT my favorite season. That being said (again), Bananarama’s “Cruel Summer” is the perfect summer song and I think of it on those hot, hot days when I can’t breathe. On the flip side, “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts is what plays in my head when it cools enough to be bearable. Seals and Crofts was my first concert back in June of 1976. They played the Providence Civic Center and that show started my addiction to concerts. I still can’t believe that my parents used to shuttle me back and forth to concerts downtown, almost weekly. In the ’70s it seemed that just about every act played arenas. These days, most people probably don’t even remember who Seals and Crofts are, though I did hear a nice version of “Summer Breeze” by Lisa Couto and Ray Cooke last week at the Downtown Sundown Series. Today, national touring acts are lucky to fill smaller venues. Yes, BIG headliners like Springsteen can still fill arenas, but there really aren’t many others who can. I paid FIVE dollars the NIGHT OF THE SHOW for a Bruce Springsteen concert ticket at the Civic Center back in 1977. Man, I feel old, but like the rest of the saying goes, “I got to see all the good bands!” Anyway, summer was the time that most of the big rock shows rolled into town. Sometimes I would be going to a show a week at the Civic Center, sometimes even two. Summer is still one of the best times to catch live music and a lot of the time it is outdoors. Last month’s Motif Summer Guide had a pretty full listing of summer music, but I will highlight some of the good stuff happening in July, inside AND out! Read on.

The Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River has some of the best shows around all year long and even if the heat of summer becomes oppressive, they have a state-of-the-art air conditioning system to keep everything cool. On Friday, July 11, the Grammy Award winning songstress of the ’90s folk boom, Shawn Colvin, will play the Narrows. Colvin is best known for her hits such as “Sunny Came Home,” “Steady On,” “Diamond in the Rough,” “Shotgun Down the Avalanche” and “I Don’t Know Why.” Get your tix for this ASAP; they won’t last. A few months ago I was checking some links for cigar box guitars and I came across Samantha Fish. She was making amazing things happen with the little 4-string instrument. I watched a few YouTube videos of her playing electric guitar and was wowed by her skills. Her cover of “War Pigs” by Black Sabbath is incredible. This blues diva slides into the Narrows on Saturday, July 12. This is a must-see show! If you are looking for a great FREE show, you’re in luck. Thursday, July 17 it’s Block-a-palooza 2 featuring Buckwheat Zydeco and Girls, Guns and Glory. This is a free show that takes place in downtown Fall River in front of the District Court House and is sponsored by the Narrows. There is always something good going at the venue on the other side of the big, old Braga Bridge. Cross over to narrowscenter.org and find out more.

One of the best summertime venues around is the Yachting Center in Newport. The big white tent off of America’s Cup Avenue went up earlier this year for the Newport Concert Series. I am very excited that Alanis Morissette will be playing what is advertised as an “intimate and acoustic” show on Thursday, August 21. Tickets for that show go on sale on July 10. Also playing is Kenny Wayne Shepherd on Sunday, August 31. Do a little dance, make a little love and get down with KC and the Sunshine Band on July 9. Have a little faith that the John Hiatt/Robert Cray will knock you out on July 12. Get close to the edge with Yes on July 13. You don’t need a million dollars to see Barenaked Ladies on July 18. Welcome The Machine’s Pink Floyd Tribute and laser show on July 25. Don’t forget to get there early (6pm) and relax in the dockside courtyard and listen to the sounds of the local performers such as Heather Rose, Steve Allain, Ed McGuirl, Bob Kendall, Joe Auger and others at the Point Stage! For more, sail to newportwaterfront events.com

If you don’t already have tickets for the Folk Festival in Newport, you are probably out of luck. You can always try. Don’t worry; there is more music than you can shake a stick at in Newport. What the hell does “shake a stick at” mean, anyway? Nimfest presents FREE afternoon concerts in King’s Park on Wellington Avenue. Right on the water, in the Gazebo, you can hear music every Sunday, all summer. Former Newport resident and RI Music Hall of Famer, Susan Cowsill of the legendary Cowsills band, will prove to you why she is worthy of RIMHOF status on July 13. Other shows on the summer schedule include: JP Jones on Aug 3, and Li’l Anne and Hot Cayenne on the 17. For more, nimbo over to: facebook.com/nimfest. BridgeFest is the music festival between music festivals. Taking place during the four days that link Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, BridgeFest presents “high quality, local music in Newport County venues.” Highlights of the many events are Songwriters in the Round featuring Allysen Callery, Mark Cutler, Bob Kendall and Ken Shane to benefit the Rhode Island Food Bank on Tuesday, July 29 at the Channing Memorial Church; on July 31 is Americana Folk Rock Night featuring The Mighty Good Boys, The Little Compton Band, Able Thought and Shotgun at Sandywoods in Tiverton; Sync or Swim at the Jamestown Central Baptist Church happens on Wednesday, July 30. Busking at Bowens has been added to this year’s fest. Chris and Diane Myers play on the 29 from 7:30 – 10pm, and Perrotti and Wright crank out the tunes on Thursday, July 31. Span over to newportbridgefest.com for more.

The next best thing to the Beatles that came out of the ’60s was Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Their album Four Way Street was a major influence on me and was the main reason I switched to acoustic music (wooden, as Crosby puts it) when I was 16. You can hear the CSN part of CSNY at PPAC on Tuesday, July 15. I have seen CSN many, many times and have even met them, although it did take 35 years for the trifecta. Does anyone remember the time Stephen Stills played in the cafeteria of CCRI in Lincoln on a rainy afternoon about 25 years ago? It was a short, three-song set, but was an amazing experience. Don’t miss this one. The group will perform songs from their extensive catalogue, as well as new material from each member. Carry on to ppacri.org for more info.

If you would like to see another letter-named band, then get to The Met. It was January 1966 when pianist Terry Adams started NRBQ in his Louisville home. Adams soon met guitarist Steve Ferguson while both were still teenagers, and that meeting was the catalyst to take the show out of the house and onto the stage. NRBQ released its self-titled debut album for Columbia Records in 1969. Forty-five years later, after more than 20 studio albums, more than a dozen live albums and numerous compilations, not to mention countless and legendary, live performances around the world, NRBQ released a new studio album, Brass Tacks. Recorded with Terry Adams on keyboards and vocals, Scott Ligon on guitar and vocals, Conrad Choucroun on drums (Ligon and Choucroun have been playing with Adams for seven years) and Casey McDonough (who joined the Q in 2012) on bass and vocals, Brass Tacks is brimming with swinging rhythms, sweet vocals, and sparkling sound. The New Rhythm and Blues Quartet swing the tour in support of this disc by The Met on Friday, July 18. For more, hammer your way to: themetri.com

Finally, here are some random shows to satisfy your summer music cravings. The 2014 New Bedford Folk Festival happens on Saturday and Sunday, July 5 – 6. Performers include Ronny Cox, Cliff Eberhardt, Jonathan Edwards, Vance Gilbert, John Gorka, Grace Morrison, Bill Harley, Poor Old Shine, Chris Smither, and many, many more. newbedfordfolkfestival.com

The Towers in Narragansett has Thursday concerts/dances all season. Notable are Reminisce on July 10, James Montgomery Blues Band on July 17 and Original Jelly Roll Soul on July 31. thetowersri.com

If you would rather play music than dance to it, the the Mediator Stage is for you. The weekly open mic gives you a chance to play, but also features some great talent. Coming up is Charlie Cover on July 10, Fred Meltzer on July 17, Kari Tieger on July 24 and Tammy Laforest on July 31. Dial up their new website: mediatorfellowship.org

If you’re jonesin’ for some coffeehouse music, this’ll give you your fix … outdoors. The Downtown Sundown Series is a FREE event that happens at Roger Williams National Memorial, 282 North Main Street in Providence. On Saturday, July 12 from 7 – 9:30pm, enjoy the music of Kala Farnham, Heather Rose, Kristen and J, and The Rank Strangers (hearinrhodeisland.com). Chuck Mead will be at Norey’s in Newport on Sunday, July 13 at 8pm (chuckmead.com). Jim Carpenter and the Hoolios will be at the Greenwich Odeum on July 19. Opening the show will be the MacLean Sisters (theodeum.org). Music At Lily Pads brings you Suzzy Roche and Lucy Wainwright Roche on Sunday, July 20 (musicatlilypads.org). At Sandywoods, it’s The Little Compton Band and Four Bridges on July 5, Jim McGrath on July 11, Wise Old Moon and the Meadows Brothers on July 13, The Rank Strangers on July 25, and Session Americana on July 26 (sandywoodsmusic.com). Multi-instrumentalist Tristan Ethier will perform Sunday, July 27 at 11am at Java Madness in Wakefield. This 14-year-old Coventry High School sophomore will sing and perform jazz, blues and rock on acoustic and electric guitar and tenor saxophone (javamadness.com).

That’s it for now. If, in the future, you would like me to consider something for my column, please send an e-mail to [email protected]. Thanks for reading! John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com The Roots Report: Starry-Eyed for Ringo

Ringo Starr & His All Star Band comes to PPAC for a nostalgic night of classics

Okee dokee folks … To my knowledge, a Beatle has only come to Rhode Island three times since the British Invasion of the ’60s (George, once and Ringo, now twice). I have been fortunate enough to be in the audience two out of those three times! Ringo and his All-Starr Band played to a sold-out house at PPAC on Sunday, June 15. The All-Starr Band is basically the greatest cover band of all time. Ringo lines up notable performers and they play a fun-filled set of songs by Ringo, The Beatles, classic covers, and each of the band members play a few of their own hit songs as well. This, the12th incarnation of the All-Starr Band in 25 years, included Todd Rundgren (guitar), Greg Rolie of Santana and Journey (organ), Steve Lukather of Toto (lead guitar), Richard Paige of Mr. Mister (bass), Greg Bissonette of David Lee Roth Band (drums), and Mark Rivera on vocals, sax, keys and percussion. The evening kicked off with Ringo singing his version of the Carl Perkins’ song, “Matchbox.” He then went straight into his signature song, “It Don’t Come Easy.” A little self- deprecation was used in the intro for the next song: “This is Wings, it is from my 2012 release that I think two people bought!” Finally, for the fourth song of the evening, Ringo ascended the elevated, center stage platform to play the drums and the “song rounds” began. Starting with Rundgren, the band members each took a turn performing one of their hits. The two-hour show included such classics as: “I Saw The Light,” “Bang The Drum All Day” and “Love is the Answer” from Todd Rundgren; “Kyrie” and “Broken Wings” from Mr. Mister; “Hold The Line,” “Rosanna” and “Africa” from Toto; and “Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen” by Santana.

This was a fun show for ALL ages. It couldn’t be anything BUT fun. Most times the audience was singing along with the band. How can you hear “Yellow Submarine,” “Photograph” and “A Little Help From My Friends” and NOT sing? Ringo commented as the band started playing “Yellow Submarine,” “If you don’t know this one you are in the wrong venue!” The lighting was fun as well-projected spinning stars, peace signs and flowers kept the back wall busy. Besides Ringo, Rundgren seemed to be having the best time in the band. He has a long history in music and is a veteran of the All-Starr Band, having been part of it in at least two other versions. Greg Rolie was a fine addition to the group mostly because of his membership in the legendary group Santana. His vocals were strong and his contribution on the B3 organ was subtle but tasteful. To me, Richard Paige and Steve Lukather seemed like odd choices for an All-Starr line-up. While Toto certainly had hit songs and Lukather is a great guitarist, he didn’t really have the “STARR POWER” of previous members of the band. He often started singing a song and handed the higher parts to Paige or Mark Rivera to handle. Lukather did channel his best Santana solos during “Evil Ways,” “Oye Como Va” and “Black Magic Woman.” His contributions to the night, “Rosanna” and “Africa,” seemed to drag on longer than needed, though “Hold The Line” held its own. I think of Richard Paige and Mr. Mister as more one-hit-wonders than legendary. OK, MAYBE they had a hit and a half. It was back in the hey-day of MTV. “Broken Wings” and “Kyrie” seemed very dated in sound compared to the rest of the night’s numbers. I do think one of his song choices of the evening, “You Are Mine,” a new song he was debuting, was out of place in the show. While the piece was enjoyable, it didn’t seem a proper fit for anyone but Ringo to play new material. As band members, Paige and Lukather are both solid players, but just seemed out of their league.

If you ask most people who their favorite Beatle was, most would reply Paul or John. Ringo would usually hold up the bottom of that list. Not mine. Ringo hovers around third/maybe second. I am scorned when I say that my ranking is George, Ringo/Paul then John. I vacillate on Paul because I liked Wings. Ringo may not be the best musician or the most popular Beatle, but he is truly a great entertainer. At 74 years old he can play a two-hour show and he still has the energy to literally do jumping jacks during the last song. It is obvious from his presence on stage that he sincerely loves what he does. He is even comfortable messing up a song — which he did! He started playing “Don’t Pass Me By” on piano and botched it a bit and then went on to just singing it. Planned or not, he showed that a Beatle is human. He seems to have his hands fixed in a permanent peace sign when they are not otherwise occupied. He is a purveyor of peace and love. One of the newer songs he performed, “Anthem,” delivered that message. He wrapped up the evening singing a portion of John Lennon’s (Plastic Ono Band) “Give Peace A Chance.” He ran offstage as the band played on and then took their bows without Ringo. Surely he was already on his way to the hotel.

While McCartney may sell out stadiums, I would rather see Ringo in a venue such as PPAC. The sound was not too loud and relatively clear, though at times the vocals did seem a bit buried behind the music. But that may just be me; I am super picky about that. Just about every seat at PPAC has a good view of the stage. You don’t have to watch or are distracted by a Jumbotron. Having those at stadium shows is great, but you can always stay home and watch TV. I don’t think attending a show at a stadium or arena can even compare to a show in a more intimate and comfortable setting such as PPAC. For me, Ringo is the obvious choice to see when it comes to a Beatle. I think that having the opportunity to see any Beatle live is something that is hard to pass up. Every real music fan should see one. There are only two left and they are getting old, so hurry. If you weren’t at PPAC for this show you missed out on a great one! The standing ovation from the audience will attest to that. Ringo certainly does get by with a little help from his friends … his famous and talented friends!

That’s it for now. Thanks for reading!

John Fuzek, johnfuzek.com Roots Report: Find Great Music and Then Look for More

Music Events for the Entire Summer

Okee dokee folks … I leave it to you to decide where to get your entertainment information, but realize that other papers may overlook a lot of great events. I’m going to try to be as inclusive as possible. My friend Melanie Moore, who can often be seen dancing in her gypsy garb to the music of local bands, wrote, “There’s some great music out there waiting to be found. And when you find it, keep looking because there will be more. Find it. Let it find you. Dance to it, sing with it, feel it, soak your weary bones in it. Let it be your drug. Go out and see a live band you’ve never seen before. Fall into their groove. Feed your soul with their art. One of the best feelings in my world is that first hit of new music moving through my body finding its way to my soul.”

I couldn’t have said this better. I will include as much as I can, but there will always be something else out there to find. In the meantime you can start here. Ready? Begin!

Just June If you wanna kick up yer heels, git yer butt to the College Hill Contra Dance at the Community Church of Providence located 372 Wayland Ave. Elwood Donnelly does the callin’ on Friday, June 6 (ProvidenceContra.com). At The Coffee Depot open mic in Warren on Friday, June 6, the feature is Deanna Merchant and Tom Farley. They close out their season with The Rebel Kellys on June 13. One of my biggest musical influences, Aztec Two-Step, will be at The Met on Saturday, June 7. The show will include Aztec fan favorites, selections from their Simon & Garfunkel Songbook show and their tribute to The Everly Brothers. At The Local Brew Coffeehouse on the 7th, Len Cabral joins Bay Spring Folk for a night of expressive storytelling woven with traditional music. Local Brew Coffeehouse happens at the Bay Spring Community Center on 170 Narragansett Ave. in Barrington (facebook.com/LocalBrew). The 7th brings Bluegrass sensations Cold Chocolate to the Wamsutta Club, 427 County St. in New Bedford (wepecket.com). Also on June 7, at 8:30pm, The RI Songwriters Association (RISA) hosts the final Saturday Songwriter Session before the summer break. This session features Lisa Martin, Junko Ogawa and Annalise Emerick. RISA and The Church Street Coffeehouse in Warren present the annual Women of RISA show on June 14 at 8pm. On the bill are host Jan Luby, Kala Farnham, Kayla Ringelheim, and Amy Herrera (RISongwriters.com). At Pearl Restaurant and Lounge on Charles St. in Providence on June 7, Ursula George celebrates the early 20th century jazz and blues of the women of the black vaudeville era.

The Red Bandana Fund is proud to name Henry Shelton and the Providence Student Union as the recipients of the Red Bandana Award for 2014. The Award honors individuals and groups whose work embodies the spirit and work of Richard Walton, a longtime activist in Rhode Island who died in 2012. The awards will be presented on June 8 at Nick-a-Nees, 75 South St. in Providence, from 4 to 7pm. The event is open to the public and is family-friendly. As a longtime director of the George Wiley Center, Henry Shelton is known throughout the region for his steadfast commitment to bettering the lives of all Rhode Islanders, especially the poor and disadvantaged. The committee also recognized the groundbreaking work done by the Providence Student Union in addressing important issues of education in creative and powerful ways. Music will be provided by Mary Ann Rossoni, Bill Harley, Dylan Harley, Phil Edmonds and Chris Thompson (facebook.com/RedBandanaFund).

Melissa Etheridge does her thing, solo, at the Zeiterion in New Bedford on June 9 (zeiterion.org). If you miss Melissa, Sherri Lynne sings the Melissa Etheridge songbook at Deville’s on June 27 (facebook.com/devillescafe). Conquer your trixadexaphobia and get to the Skyline Lounge of Lang’s Bowlarama for Tammy Laforest and The Dust Ruffles, and Justin Davis and Just Express. If you haven’t figured it out, that is Friday the 13th (of June). Tammy is celebrating the release of her brand new CD, Copper. An open mic will follow the show (TammyLaforest.com). Also on the 13th, Voices Under Cover features the songs of Lucinda Williams as sung by the award-winning singer-songwriters Allysen Callery, Heather Rose, Becky Chace, and Tracie Potochnik. This is an encore of last year’s show and will be held at the Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Kingston (HearInRhodeIsland.com). On June 14, Music at Lily Pads presents a special concert featuring the 14-member ensemble Mother Falcon from Austin, The Family Crest from San Francisco, and Brooklyn’s Christopher Paul Stelling. This will be evening of original songs with rich instrumentation and vocals, and bands that bring symphonic orchestration into contemporary music (musicatlilypads.org). Dean Petrella of the Complaints steps out for a rare solo acoustic performance on June 14 at 8pm. The free show will be held at Alibi Café located at 18 Bassett St. in Providence (TheComplaints.com).

If you are looking for a great outdoor music festival without having to travel hours to find it, The Blackstone River Theatre Summer Solstice Festival returns to Diamond Hill Park in Cumberland on Saturday, June 21. Five stages focus on Celtic and world music, dance and culture. Featured performers include Burning Bridget Cleary, Cantrip (from Scotland), Aoife Clancy, Eastern Medicine Singers (Algonquin drum, song and dance), The Gnomes, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Laurel Martin, Mark Roberts & Kieran Jordan, Robbie O’Connell, the Panache Quartet, Pendragon, Harvey Reid & Joyce Andersen, and Torrin Ryan & Mark Oien. There will also be nonstop Irish step dance featuring Tir Na Nog Irish Dance as well as participatory set dancing with Devine’s Diner. Also returning will be the after-festival music session back at the Blackstone River Theatre at 8:30pm (RiverFolk.org).

The 39th Annual RI PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade takes place Saturday June 21. Starting at noon on South Water St. in Providence, catch performances that include Poppy Champlin, Heather Rose In Clover, Aiden James, drag queens and more (PrideRI.com). Other Pride-related events will take place at Deville’s in Providence on June 20 with Karyn Oliver, and on the 21st there will be a block party with Sister Funk.

If you want some fun for once in your life, you are in luck. The Schemers will play a reunion show on June 27 at The Met (TheMetRI.com). The 100 Watt Suns and Longshot Voodoo are at the Courthouse Center for the Arts, Saturday, June 28 at 8pm (CourthouseArts.org).

Just July On July 3, check out East Providence’s fireworks and the music of Kicking Hole and Crushed Velvet at Pierce Memorial Field. The 1st annual Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet Festival happens July 4 – 6 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston. Some of the scheduled performers are Blues Highway, Steeldrivers, Tony Trischka & Great Big World, Pete and Joan Wernick, the Carter Brothers, Suzahn Fiering, The Kropp Dusters, and George Harper. Master class workshops, indoor and outdoor jams, and a farmer’s market are all part of it (AngryLobsterEvents.com). One of your best “bang for the buck” folk festivals around is the The New Bedford Folk Festival. The 2014 festival will feature top contemporary, traditional and Celtic folk music on seven stages from Saturday July 5 through Sunday July 6. Featured among the nearly 50 musical acts are Barbo, Beaucoup Blue, Craig Bickhardt, Benoit Bourque, Kate Campbell, Ronny Cox, Joe Crookston, Chrissy Crowley, Cliff Eberhardt, Jonathan Edwards, Marina Evans, Gail Finnie, Bob Franke, Vance Gilbert, John Gorka, Grace and the RSO, Bill Harley, Matt and Shannon Heaton, Anne Hills, Pete and Maura Kennedy, Mike Laureanno, Christine Lavin, Zoë Lewis, The Murphy Beds, New Bedford Harbor Sea Chantey Chorus, Chris Pahud, Poor Old Shine, Hayley Reardon, RUNA, Chris Smither, Devon Sproule, Spuyten Duyvil, Art Tebbetts, Steve Tilston, Jeff Warner, and Don White. The festival is located in the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center and the Whaling National Historical Park in New Bedford (NewBedfordFolkFestival.com). Swamp Stomp 7 takes place on Saturday, July 12 in the swampy, back woods of West Kingston with performances by Ha Ha Tonka, JP Harris & the Tough Choices; Girls, Guns & Glory; and Smith & Weeden (brownpapertickets.com/event/666795). Set aside your beach blankets and coolers this summer at the North Kingstown Town Beach and enjoy the Family Summer Concert Series. All shows start at 6:30pm. July 10 is Ben Rudnick and Friends, July 17 is Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys, July 24 is Stacey Peasley, July 31 is Toe Jam Puppet Band (NKArtsCouncil.org). Suzzy Roche and Lucy Wainwright Roche pop into Music At Lily Pads on July 20 (musicatlilypads.org). If you’re into a road trip (3 hours), some camping, and a who’s who of Bluegrass in the Catskill Mountains, then get away to the Grey Fox Bluegrass festival on July 17 – 20 at the Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, NY for Nickel Creek, Del McCoury Band,Carolina Chocolate Drops, Gibson Brothers, Tim O’Brien & Darrell Scott, Keller Williams w/Travelin’ McCourys and more (greyfoxbluegrass.com). From July 25 – 27 it’s the Newport Folk Festival with acts such as Band of Horses, Jimmy Cliff, Nickel Creek, Mavis Staples, and Jeff Tweedy (newportfolk.org). The sixth Annual Newport BridgeFest happens July 28 – 31. BridgeFest is a four-night celebration of local music and musical events at various local venues throughout Newport County “bridging” the world famous Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals (NewportBridgeFest.com).

Just August August 1 – 3 brings back the Newport Jazz Festival with Wynton Marsalis, Trombone Shorty, Bobby McFerrin, Dr. John, David Sanborn and more (newportjazzfest.org). A Blues Barbecue Bash at the Salon Concert Series takes place at the Wamsutta Club in New Bedford on August 2. Featured is Mississippi Bluesman Sherman Lee Dillon (wepecket.com). The AS220 FOO FEST takes place in Providence on August 9 (AS220.org). The best festival (party) of the year is the Rhythm and Roots Festival at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, August 29 – 31. This year’s festival includes Steve Riley and the Mamu Playboys, The Duhks, Sarah and the Tallboys, The Travelin’ McCourys, CJ Chenier, Donna the Buffalo and more (RhythmandRoots.com). There are also some sporadic free outdoor concerts at Ninigret Park. On July 13 at 5:30 it’s David Gerald and on August 24 it’s Forever Young (charlestownri.org).

Just September The first annual Providence Folk Festival will take place at Roger Williams Memorial in PVD on September 7. Catch two stages of music by some of the best local and regional performers (HearInRhodeIsland.com). The 6th annual Sidy Maiga’s West African drum and dance festival, Afrika Nyaga, is bringing musicians and artists from across New England and West Africa to perform. On September 20, Sidy Maiga’s West African drum and dance festival includes a daytime drum circle and African dance that is great for both children and adults. AfriManding and Oumou Sangare will also be performing (afrikanyaga.com).

Summer Series The Downtown Sundown Series is now in its fourth year and gains steam with every show. Performances are free, start at 7pm and run until 9:30pm at Roger Williams National Memorial on North Main St. in Providence. Experience an outdoor coffeehouse! This year’s schedule: In the event of rain, the concerts will be held in the visitor center. On Saturday, June 21 will be Steve Allain, Emma Joy Galvin, Tracie Potochnik, Lisa Couto and Ray Cooke. On Saturday, July 12 will be Kala Farnham, Heather Rose, Kristen and J, and Rank Strangers. On Saturday, July 26 will be Jesse and Jack Gauthier, Dan Lilley and Scatman, Lisa Markovich, and Bethel Steele. On Saturday, August 9 will be Michelle Cruz, Lily Faith Milne, Dylan Sevey, and Vudu Sister. On Saturday, August 23 will be Marc Douglas Berardo, Allysen Callery, Bob Kendall and Ed McGuirl (HearInRhodeIsland.com).

The Newport Concert Series (formerly the Newport Sunset Festival) keeps upping the ante and bringing in more great shows! Every year local performers play the Point Stage (PS) as the opening, opening act. Get there early to check them out. On June 19 will be Dierks Bentley with Lisa Martin at PS, on June 20 will be Ziggy Marley with Louis Leeman at PS, on July 6 will be KC and the Sunshine Band with Heather Rose at PS, on July 12 will be John Hiatt and Robert Cray with Ed McGuirl at PS, on July 13 will be Yes with Steve Allain on PS, on July 18 will be Barenaked Ladies with Bob Kendall on PS, on July 25 will be The Machine (Pink Floyd tribute w/ laser show) with Joe Auger at PS, on August 1 will be Three Doors Down with Emma Joy Galvin at PS, on August 6 will be Boz Scaggs with Lisa Couto & Ray Cooke at PS, on August 10 will be Gregg Allman with Dean DePalma at PS, on August 14 will be Josh Turner with Tracie Potochnik at PS, on August 16 will be the Beach Boys with Joe Silva at PS, on September 20 will be Chris Young with Michelle Lewis at PS. More shows will be added (newportwaterfrontevents.com).

Newport Rocks the Fort at Sundown. On Thursdays there are free concerts on the north lawn at Fort Adams in Newport. Starting at 6pm and ending shortly after sunset, talented musicians and other performers from Newport and beyond will share their talent. On June 19 is Red Eye Flight and Peter Warburton; on June 26 is The Steamahs; on July 3 is The Conversation and Sundown Big Cat Blues; on July 10 is James Ragland, Anne Marie and Rich Davis; on July 17 is We Own Land and friends; on August 7 is Andy & Judy, Matt Bruneau & Leslie Grimes; on August 14 is Acoustik Nyte and Black Jade; on August 21 is Lisa Couto & Ray Cooke, Ed McGuirl and company; on August 28 is Triple Threat Blues Crusade; and on September 4 is The Merge & Friends. Each evening will be hosted by local comedians and other talents. The concerts will include casual food from local vendors as well as alcohol service ([email protected].)

Summer Mash On the first Tuesday of every month, from 7 to 10pm, an open mic is held at Sandywoods Center for the Arts in Tiverton. Other highlights at Sandywoods this summer include on June 7 – The Tarbox Ramblers; on June 21 – Allysen Callery, Ryan Lee, and Lys Guillorn; on June 27 – Debra Mann Quintet; on July 4 – Laurel Casey; on July 5 – Little Compton Band and Four Bridges; on July 23 – Village Harmony; on July 26 – Session Americana; on August 2 – Aine Minogue; and on August 22 – Jen Chapin (sandywoodsmusic.com).

The Mediator Stage keeps going all summer with host Don Tassone. Features are as follows: June 5 – Jim Tata; June 12 – Joel Greene and Deep Waters; June 19 – Bill Nottage; June 26 — Bob Fitzgerald; July 10 – Charlie Cover; July 17 – Fred FJ Round Two Meltzer; July 24 – Kari Tieger; July 31 – Tammy Laforest; August 7 –TBA; August 14 – Athan Phynix; August 21 – RISING Student Songwriters; and August 28 – Rick & Hannah Mariotti (facebook.com/mediatorstage). The Greenwich Odeum presents Kind of Blue – A Tribute to Miles Davis on July 12 and Jim Carpenter with the Hoolios on July 19. The Odeum is located at 59 Main St. in East Greenwich (TheOdeum.org).

The Towers in Narragansett keeps a summer tradition of dancing near the ocean alive every Thursday night until September. It starts June 12 with Eight to the Bar, on June 19 is The Revelers, on June 26 is The Superchief Trio, on July 10 is Reminisce, on July 17 is James Montgomery, on July 24 is Li’l Anne and the Hot Cayenne, on August 7 is Roger Ceresi, and on August 21 is Firecracker Jazz Band. Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys will do their annual show at the Towers. Check website for the date (TheTowersRI.com).

Every Sunday till someone tells them to stop it’s the Return Of The Son of the Classic Open Mic with Host Joe Auger. It happens Sundays at 7:30pm in the Fatt Squirrel (formerly The Century Lounge and The Roi) at 150 Chestnut St., Providence. The Northwest Farmers Market at the Peterson Farm (just past Stick’s Tavern) on Route 44 in Chepachet will host music performances during the market hours of 11am – 2pm. Artists such as Dan Lilley, Malyssa Bellarosa, Jacob Haller and more can be heard among the fruits and veggies. The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) has some great shows to lure you inside on a hot summer night. The legendary Ringo Starr brings his all-star band to PVD on June 15, Crosby, Stills and Nash are back on July 15, Beck odelays in on July 26, and Jackson Browne plays a solo, acoustic show on August 20 (ppacri.org). On the lawn at the Meeting House of Tiverton Four Corners Arts, it’s their Concert and Food Truck Summer Shows. On June 29 is Smith and Weeden with The Little Compton Band, on July 27 is Kate Grana & Friends and on August 3 is WindSync (FourCornersArts.org). Also, the 27th annual Tiverton Four Corners Arts & Artisan Festival takes place at The Mill Pond location on Saturday, July 19 with music by Gary Fish, the Little Compton Band and other local favorites (ArtsandArtisanFestival.com).

At Manchester 65 in W. Warwick on June 13 is Melissa Ferrick and Mary Ann Rossoni; on June 14 is The Toasters, w/ Oshun Roots, Bad Larry, Sweet Babylon; on June 15 is Simone Felice w/ Able Thought, Brian Recupero; on June 21 is The English Beat, w/ The Copacetics, Rad, The Stone Unturned; on June 22 is Mary Day Band, Jury; on June 26 is Jamestown Revival, The Wind & The Wave, Kris Orlowski; on July 13 is Maggie Rose, Michelle Cruz; on July 27 is Everlast; on August 1 is Tyler Ward w/ Gary Palumbo, Christina Holmes, Como Brothers; on August 9 is Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad; and on August 15 is Bobby Carlson & Stones River (Manchester65.com).

At Chan’s in Woonsocket: June 7 is Popa Chubby, June 13 is New Orleans Trombonist Glen David Andrews, June 14 is Jon Butcher Axis Celebrating the Music of Jimi Hendrix, June 19 is Curtis Salgado, June 20 is Chris Thomas King, June 21 is Dennis Gruenling & Doug Deming Band, June 27 is Brian Maes Band, June 28 is Joe Moss, July 11 is Jimmy Thackery & the Drivers, July 12 is Sue Foley & Peter Karp, July 18 is Commander Cody, July 19 is Fat City, July 26 is Duke Robillard, August 1 is Chris Cain & Debbie Davies, August 7 is Tinsley Ellis, August 8 is Roomful of Blues, August 15 is Matt Schofield, August 29 is Reverend Raven & The Chain Smoking Altar Boys, and August 30 is Coco Montoya (ChansEggRollsandJazz.com). Every Sunday afternoon at Small Axe Café, located on the grounds among the emus, chickens and goats at the Fantastic Umbrella Factory, you can catch live music performed by local artists such as Ed McGuirl, Dan Lilley and others (facebook.com/smallaxeproductions). The Empire Revue at AS220 keeps you laughing all summer long with great music and comedy skits every first Sunday of the month. On July 6 they celebrate their 8th anniversary (AS220.org).

If I missed anything, it was not intentional. I will keep you updated over the summer. If you would like me to consider something for my column, please send an e-mail to [email protected]. That’s it for now. Thanks for reading!

John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com

The Roots Report: Some Shows You MAY See

Okee dokee folks … Thanks for coming out to support the Motif Music Awards. Here are a few other shows you should come out to support.

The Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame (RIMHOF) has expanded its 3rd annual Hall of Fame Ceremony and Concerts to two days this year – Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4 – at two different locations. The RIMHOF’s nine 2014 inductees are Tavares, Duke Robillard, Cheryl Wheeler, Paul Gonsalves, The Castaleers, The Mark II (Winston Cogswell and Ray Peterson), Freddie Scott, Francis Madeira and Randy Hien. The May 3 concert featuring Tavares, as well as a tribute to Freddie Scott led by Mac Odom and The Travis Colby Band, will take place at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel. The 2014 RIMHOF Induction Ceremony and Concert is set for Sunday, May 4, at The MET and Hall of Fame space itself, both located within the Hope Artiste Village complex on Main Street in Pawtucket. Sunday’s afternoon event will include the unveiling of all nine 2014 inductee exhibits as well as performances by Cheryl Wheeler, Duke Robillard, the Mark II and a tribute to Paul Gonsalves led by world-renowned saxophonist Dan Moretti. All proceeds from RIMHOF’s annual induction events go toward creating the museum displays, acquiring recordings and memorabilia, and digitizing that collection for permanent online access for future generations. All organizational work has been donated by members of the Board of Directors and a staff of volunteers. For more, coronate your way to: rhodeislandmusichalloffame.com

On the first Tuesday of every month, from 7 to 10pm, an open mic is held at Sandywoods in Tiverton. Musicians, performers and spoken word artists are welcome to take the stage. Admission is free, but donations for the evening’s featured act are accepted. This month is Bill Mottea. Also at Sandywoods is a repeat of the popular standing-room-only memorial concert held on Valentine’s Day. The same great roster of musicians will perform: Art Tebbets, Aubrey Atwater and Elwood Donnelly; Bill Harley, Joyce Katzberg and Jimmy Warren; and Sally Rogers and Howie Bursen. No charge for this outdoor concert, but donations for musicians and the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc. will be accepted. Join in as they honor and pay tribute to folk icon Pete Seeger. After the concert, there will be an open sing-a-long and bonfire! For more, hootenanny over to: sandywoodsmusic.com.

The Bell Street Chapel in Providence hosts Ellis Delaney and Lara Herscovitch (the former Connecticut state troubadour) on Thursday, May 8 at 7:30pm. For more about this show, ring up: 401-273-5678.

The Voices Under Cover shows have found a new home at the Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Kingston. Shows are scheduled all summer. Kicking off the first show on Saturday, May 17 is an encore performance of the inaugural show from last year. The performers: Kala Farnham, Heather Rose, Louis Leeman and others will be singing the songs of Warren Zevon. For more, werewolf to: HearInRhodeIsland.com.

The Round Square Music Festival will take place again this year on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17 at Theatre 82, Rolfe Square in Cranston. Dedicated to songwriters in Rhode Island, the festival will feature some of the area’s best in an acoustic setting. Enjoy a weekend of music ranging from Americana to folk with hints of jazz and pop, featuring Kala Farnham, G.W. Mercure, Tracie Potochnik, Ian Fitzgerald, Daphne Lee Martin, Haunt the House, Allysen Callery, Matt Borrello, Dan Blakeslee and Steve Allain. Music will start at 8pm both Friday and Saturday nights. For more, circle your square to: artists-exchange.org.

The Greenwich Odeum on Main Street in East Greenwich is up and running again and has some great shows coming up. May 10 is The Jersey Four: A Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, May 31 is The KroppDusters, June 7 is Hey Nineteen: A Steely Dan Tribute. For more, hum over to the theodeum.org.

That’s it for now. Thanks for reading!

Roots Report — Wild Youth and Wilder Shows April Shows that Cover Decades of Music

Okee dokee folks… Technically it’s spring, though it isn’t spring in my book until the peepers start peeping. Those little frozen froggies should have been thawed and tweeting by now. They are late. Something is amiss. The “peepers” are generally pretty punctual. Right around St. Patrick’s Day is when I will usually hear one lone peeper. As the days go on it builds into a chorus. By the time it starts to really warm up they are so loud that it sounds like a peeper pep rally. Granted, you need to live near a pond or swampy area to get the full effect, but if you have never heard them, you should. When the bullfrogs warm up they start their deep throated (get your mind out of the gutter) croaking. They are more of a solo act. Their husky grunts punctuate the peepers’ performance. The sounds of nature are some of my favorite sounds. Some nights I will sit outside and listen to the woodland critters for hours. It’s therapeutic. If you would like to know what other wild music is out there, read on.

Back in my “yute” (see My Cousin Vinnie) we used to drive around in my 1965 Rambler station wagon. It wasn’t a very cool vehicle, but it could hold six or eight of my friends. Sometimes I didn’t even know who was way in the back. We would put two dollars worth of gas (it was 50 cents a gallon) in the tank and drive around all night. Of course we would be up to no good. Often there was beer involved … maybe other stuff. Shhhh! The soundtrack for our jaunts was provided by the then state-of-the-art EIGHT TRACK TAPE PLAYER. Now these things were not the greatest devices to play music on but it beat AM radio’s selection of three stations. Often, to make the tape player function, you would need to wedge a matchbook under the tape. Sometimes two tracks would play at once (or was that because we were buzzed?). One of the more interesting features of an eight track player was when the tape switched tracks in the middle of a song. You would be really getting into a song and then “chu-chunk,” track change. Now if the songs were short and the producers did a good job, this didn’t happen often but with longer songs it would go through two or even three track changes! Back then a lot of what I listened to fell into the long song category. One of my favorite bands to listen to while driving around was Yes. If you don’t know, they were a progressive, synth-rock band that was very popular in the ’70s. They were almost as famous for their Roger Dean-created Yes Logo and fantasy landscape album covers. Remember, this was the ’70s — think vans, shag carpets, black lights. So, once again I am taking the “ROUNDABOUT” way of telling you something. Vocalist Jon Anderson, singer-songwriter and 35 year member of band Yes will be performing at the Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket (if you say woooon-socket, please exit the state now) on Tuesday, April 22. The show promises to deliver an exciting mixture of material from Anderson’s prolific career, including classic Yes songs, collaborations with Vangelis, and new compositions, all highlighted by humorous and enlightening stories told by Anderson. As the former lead vocalist and creative force behind Yes, Anderson was a major creative influence behind the ground-breaking album, Fragile as well as the series of epic, complex pieces such as “Awaken,”,“Gates of Delirium” and especially “Close to the Edge,” which were central to the band’s success. Additionally, Anderson co-wrote the group’s biggest hits, including “I’ve Seen All Good People,” “Roundabout,” and “Owner Of A Lonely Heart.” In addition, Anderson had great success with a series of albums he did with Vangelis, and most recently released the critically acclaimed solo album titled Survival and Other Stories. The Stadium Theatre is located at 28 Monument Square in Woonsocket. For more about this show and others at the Stadium, “Relayer” your way over to stadiumtheatre.com. Do you want more Yes? Yes? OK, you are in luck. “An Evening With Yes” will be presented at the Newport Yachting Center as part of the Newport Concert Series on July 13. If you know the history of Yes, the line-up has changed many, many times over the years. One incarnation even included the infamous Buggles (Video Killed the Radio Star) And I did see this version in concert! The current touring band consists of members: Jon Davison — lead vocal, Chris Squire — bass, Steve Howe — guitar, Alan White — drums, and keyboardist Geoff Downes. Tickets for this show go on sale Thursday, April 10. For more about Yes and other shows at the Newport Concert Series, “Fly From Here” over to newportwaterfrontevents.com

Back in the early ’80s, (EEEK!!!, my least favorite decade) Bryan Adams emerged as one of the darlings of the MTV generation. With hits like, “Cuts Like A Knife,” “Summer of ’69” and “Run To You,” he was in heavy rotation on TV and radio. I have to admit that “Cuts Like A Knife” was a video that I actually liked. Well, I liked the girl in the bathing suit that was in the video more than I liked the song or actual video! OK, I liked the song, too. This Canadian singer-songwriter topped the charts for many years and crossed over into the subsequent decades with songs like, “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You,” “Open Road” and most recently “Thought I’d Seen Everything.” He is one of the world’s top selling artists with over 65 million records sold and he is Canada’s top selling rock artist with 20 Juno awards to his credit. This year, the 54-year-old Adams will be out on tour, with just a guitar or two and possibly a side person on keys. The “Bare Bones” show will give fans a rare opportunity to see Adams as they’ve not seen him before: solo, acoustic and in an intimate venue. Reports of the show have Adams playing hit after hit from his three-decade, 16-album career, in a stripped-down acoustic performance to sell out crowds. If you were a young fan back in the ’80s and your love for has Bryan has endured (mostly talking to the ladies here, but I don’t discriminate), you hear his songs incessantly on corporate radio and they are drilled into your head so you need to go and free the demons, or if you are a recent fan and just really love the music, then this is a must see show. I am thinking that it will surely be a nostalgic, sing-a-long kind of night, so bring your best audience participation attitude! Oh, did I mention the show is at Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium in Providence on Cinco de Mayo (May 5 for all of you not “with-it” folks)? For more info about this show and other at the Vets, run to: vmari.com

Now for the big list of random shows taking place around the state during the month of April. Ready? Begin. Read it and run! On Thursday, April 3, Luna’s Ladies Night presents Chris Pureka at Fete Music, 103 Dike Street in Olneyville. Pureka is described as “her tunes have the grave Appalachian flavor of Neil Young and Gillian Welch; her guitar playing is subdued but quietly virtuosic. And her voice can be a desolate whisper or a bitter accusation.” Nicole Reynolds opens the show at 8pm. For more, hurry over to: eventbrite.com. At the Coffee Depot in Warren on Friday, April 4, the open mic feature will be Marilyn Manfra, who will coincidentally be celebrating her birthday that night. I have a rough idea of her age, but I won’t tell, mostly because she would kill me! So bring your guitar and a song to play (and maybe a gift for Marilyn) or just sit and enjoy. Admission is free, but they will pass the hat and you should help fill it. The Rhode Island Songwriters Association’s Saturday Songwriter Sessions brings together RISA members Bethel Steele, Earl Faria and Bill Nottage on Saturday, April 5. $5 at the door. Get there early for a good seat. Music starts at 8:30pm. Compose your way to: risongwriters.com for more. “Keep the cake out of the rain.” That line was included in the e-mail I received from Dennis Costa of Wakefield Music, about an upcoming concert they are having at the store on Sunday, April 6. Now, I am not sure if he is referring to Jimmy Webb, Richard Harris, Donna Summer, an actual reference to a cake in the rain, or maybe a song by the group that is performing. It was kind of cryptic, but I liked it! The Boxcar Lilies are described as a “high energy Americana trio with a knack for heavenly harmonies and exceptional songwriting.” To listen to the lovely ladies, swing your ear to: boxcarlilies.com. Esmerée Skye opens the show. The store is located at 58 Main Street in Wakefield. For more info, give the store a jingle at 401-783-5390. This next statement sounds like the epilogue of a true crime show, but it’s the teaser for the upcoming Empire Revue show at AS220 on Sunday, April 6. “Every sketch in this show will be based on a true story or feature a dare that the beatniks have been dared to do! Come see what terrible things we’ve done and will do for your entertainment!” I don’t think I need to say much more than, “Get there early for a seat!” these shows pack ‘em in and is some of the best entertainin’ around! This month’s guests include: Sokeo Ros, Mertz, Joanne Lurgio, Anthony Scibelli, Niraj Shah and Emeline Easton. For more, sparkle over to as220.org. On Monday evening, April 7, The Aurea Concert Series presents “Melville and the Great White Whale” at Slater Mill, 67 Roosevelt Avenue in Pawtucket (if you say PAW-tucket, please exit the state now). For more, industrially revolute to slatermill.org.

Ok, catch your breath for a minute and read on … Stone Soup keeps the good stuff coming with Bill Staines on Saturday, April 12. Staines has 26 recordings to his credit and has written over 300 songs, many of which have been recorded by the likes of Peter, Paul, and Mary; Makem and Clancy; Nanci Griffith; Glen Yarborough and Jerry Jeff Walker. His music is sung at campfires and folk music gatherings and in homes and churches all around the country. On stage, Staines is an intimate, compelling performer. He will mix in traditional tunes with his own contemporary folk ballads. His humorous tales of life on the road and observations of everyday people provide an entertaining blend of story and song. WS Monroe opens the night. For more, stir your way to: stonesoupcoffehouse.com. Lucille and the guy who make her sound so sweet, BB King, will be at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel on Saturday, April 12. Tix are $50-$75. Doors at 6:30pm. For more about this show and others at Lupo’s, slide it over to: lupos.com. Also on April 12, Chris Monti and Marjorie Thompson will each play a one hour solo set (and will probably play a couple of songs together too) at The Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland. Tix are $12 at the door. For more, pattern pick to: riverfolk.org. Yet another show on the April the 12 is Jonah Tolchin and the Honey Dew Drops. You can see/hear them at Music at Lily Pads 27 North Road in Peacedale. For more, drizzle over to: musicatlilypads.org. At Manchester 65 in West Warwick on April 13, Mary Ann Rossoni and her original band will kick off a show at 4pm, and her other band, Midnight Honey featuring Cathy “Little Bit” will follow at 5:30. They will be playing on the patio if weather is nice or inside if not. Food will be cooking on the grill and sold — hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza. For more, get your buns over to: manchester65.com. The Master of the Dobro, Jerry Douglas, who has played on more than 1,600 albums and as a sideman for artists as diverse as Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, Phish, Dolly Parton, Paul Simon, Mumford & Sons, Keb’ Mo’, Ricky Skaggs, Elvis Costello and Johnny Mathis, as well as performing on the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack will be at The Met in a rare solo appearance on Sunday, Sunday, April 13 at 6pm. Mark Cutler opens. For more, resonate your way to: themetri.com.

I would be chastised by my bandmates if I did not mention that Forever Young will be playing a special acoustic show at the Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Greenwich on Saturday, April 5. For more about this show, gavel over to: courthousearts.org. Also, Allysen Callery would probably like me to mention that she and I will be playing a show at Perks and Corks in Westerly on Wednesday night, April 16 from 8-11pm. Pop on over to perksandcorks.com. Oh, and if you want to see me make a fool of myself in the finest way, then PLEASE come to the Motif Music Awards on Monday, April 28 when Bettysioux Tailor and I host the prestigious event at The Met.

Time to do some ORGANIZING! I am TRYING to get better about what I cover in my column. I have made a LIST. Watch out world! We’ll see if it helps me sort things out. I may be too scattered and beyond help, but I am going to try. If there is something that you would like me to consider writing about, please send me an e-mail. I will send you a reminder of my writing deadline so you can get it to me on time. Send to: [email protected]

That’s it for now. Thanks for reading! John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com

Roots Report: The Kindness (and Unkindness) of Strangers

Seeing a live show at one of the many venues in Providence? Be careful where you park, even members of the band are getting towed.

Okee dokee, folks … Never underestimate the kindness of strangers or the greed of an unscrupulous tow-truck driver. The human race never fails to baffle me. Animals are far more loyal and honest, but occasionally a human, or two, or three, rises to their ranks.

For the past month I have been dealing with the excruciating pain of a pinched nerve (hence the request for massage in last month’s column). Not only has there been pain, I have had weakness in my arm and hand as well as dexterity issues. For someone who plays guitar, this is not a good thing. The pinched nerve wreaked havoc on my life, particularly my guitar playing. Fortunately January has been a little light on gigs, but the performances that were scheduled had edited set lists and much more stage banter. I just couldn’t form certain chords with my fingers, something I have been doing effortlessly for over 35 years. I prefaced all of my recent gigs with the disclaimer, “My guitar playing usually doesn’t suck as much as it may tonight. I have a pinched nerve.”

I should have canceled these gigs, but I was sick in December and already missed quite a few. At one gig a couple of weeks ago, I made my pre-show pain announcement and went into my set flubbing chords as I played. At the intermission, quite a few folks came up to me to let me know that I was doing just fine and they were really enjoying the songs and the stories in between. Then a woman came up and told me she was a chiropractor and discussed my problem with two other audience members. One was a physical therapist and the other a sort of spirit healer. They ALL were going to work on me after the show. And that they did. The PT and the spirit healer each took a turn and then came time for the chiropractor. I could feel that they were definitely getting to the problem. The chiropractor told me that I could go to her office, which was just down the street, and she would give me a full treatment. That she did and blessed me with an hour-long session. She found “buttons” that released the pain and I felt much better, but not perfect. Chiropractic care is not a quick fix; it takes many adjustments and time, but it works. Unfortunately my medical coverage does not include chiropractic, something I am very disappointed in.

After a couple of days, the pain and problems returned and I had to bite the bullet and see a doctor. Now I am in physical therapy, going to multiple doctors, and popping pharmaceuticals for the pain. Honestly I would prefer chiropractic care. Either way, if it wasn’t for the kindness of those folks at the gig I probably would have kept putting off getting the issue resolved and stuck with my stubbornness about treatment. These strangers gave this strange guy some much needed help and TLC. I thank them.

As for the unscrupulous tow-truck driver, well, these are the kind of people who make sewer rats look like cuddly teddy bears. Providence is getting to be an unfriendly city once again, and greed is taking over, which it can’t afford to do when businesses are closing and the ones that remain struggle.

I was meeting a friend in Providence at Cafe Zog before a gig. I like Zog. It’s a quirky little coffee shop, great for chilling and chatting. From there we jumped in her truck, grabbed a pizza and headed over to AS220 for a gig. Parking was a nightmare and available parking was $20. INSANE! Fortunately, we found a rare street spot and hoofed it to the venue. The show was the RISA 10th anniversary Songwriters in the Round, with a great line-up and lots of very memorable songs. Stand-outs were Kala Farnham, Joanne Lurgio, Jake Haller and Carolyn Waters. Everyone shined. After the show we drove back to Zog where I left my truck. It was not there. I saw a tow driver loading a car onto a flat bed, and asked about my truck. Sure enough, he towed it. I was PISSED!!!

Evidently there are signs in the lot behind Zog that non-customer cars would be towed. Earlier, when I arrived, none of the signs were visible as they were BLOCKED BY CARS! Besides, I was a customer at Zog and often patronize the establishment. Why was my truck towed? Zog was closed by then anyway.

I asked the tow driver how to get my truck back. He said I had to bring $138 CASH to the lot across from the Amazing Superstore (admit it, you all know where that is). Of course I didn’t have the cash. I am a musician and feel lucky if I have $20 in my pocket. They wouldn’t take credit cards. The whole deal seemed very shady, and I hope the IRS pays them a little visit. I had to get a ride home and get my truck the next day. The tow driver said they would be there.

Sunday morning I woke up and got a ride. THE PLACE WAS LOCKED!!! I called the number on the sign and the voice on the phone said they are never open on Sunday, though I was SPECIFICALLY TOLD that they would be there. He told me someone would stop by in 45 minutes. So I waited. An hour later, the same rude driver from the night before came. Smug. Now, I don’t hate tow drivers. Drivers who make their living HELPING people who are stuck or moving vehicles with consent are fine. I have benefited from their assistance many times. This process of kidnapping someone’s vehicle and ransoming it for an OBSCENE amount of money should be illegal (karma, baby, karma!!!).

After begrudgingly giving him the ransom to free my truck, I got the hell out of PVD and headed home. Please heed this story and warning. Watch out where you park! And as for PVD in general, it seems it is becoming less and less friendly to the folks who support it and sees them only as objects to suck money from. I feel bad for arts organizations in PVD. They squeak by as is, and it is hard to draw people into the city to support them. Ransoming cars, high parking rates and just general unpleasantness about going downtown will surely make folks think twice about heading down. Hopefully someone will get the message before Providence becomes the ghost town it was many years ago. Where is Buddy when you need him? Enough, for now. Read on …

The legendary folk musician/activist Pete Seeger passed away last week. In all honesty, of anyone on this planet, Pete was the man I looked up to most of all. What he stood for and what he did for the world was nothing short of amazing. He kept it up well into his 90s. When his wife, Toshi, died last year I knew that it wouldn’t be long for Pete. They were together almost 70 years and they were each other’s rock. I was fortunate to meet and talk with both of them quite a few times over the past 30 years, and they were wonderful people. He left some pretty big shoes to fill. Some of us are going to TRY to fill his shoes on Friday night, February 14 at Sandywoods in Tiverton (not PVD!). We will present a memorial concert in honor of Mr. Seeger. Scheduled to appear are Atwater-Donelly, Bill Harley, Ron Tebbetts, Joyce Katzberg and Jimmy Warren, Sally Rogers and Howie Burson, and me. We will play songs that Pete wrote and made famous, and some of our own that fit into the spirit of things. The show is FREE, but get there early as it likely will be a packed house. Sandywoods was started by Pete Seeger’s daughter, Mika, so the venue is very fitting. For more about the show, inch by inch over to sandywoodsmusic.com

Stone Soup Coffeehouse has a couple of great shows this month. Rani Arbo and daisy mayhem will perform on the stage at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on February 8. They are a band that takes what’s lying around — from tin cans, to old songs, to human stories — and creates something new. With influences from Doc Watson to Django Reinhardt, from Fiddlin’ John Carson to the funky Meters, Rani Arbo and daisy mayhem celebrate America’s past and take it into the present. There will be a“Hoot” (otherwise known as an open mic) before the show. Sign-ups are on the day of the show and begin during ticket sales. Come early! My longtime and occasional partner in music, Mary Ann Rossoni, is performing on February 22 and will celebrate the release of her newest CD, Edentown, This, her eighth work, shows us an artist who has come full circle, from acoustic music and back again. Only this time, Mary Ann’s songwriting shows the benefit of passing time, of experience, of wisdom and of age. Many of the tunes on Edentown talk of loss, recovery and sacrifice. Opening the night will be Mike Laureanno and he is also celebrating the release of his new CD, Pushing Back Wintertime. For more, slurp over to soup.org

The Narrows in Fall River has a fabulous February schedule to make the trip over the big old BragaBridge worth facing your fears for. On February 7, The Autumn Defense (Pat Sansone and John Stirratt from WILCO) and The Bob Kendall Band hit the Narrows stage. One of the most prominent and influential figures in late 20th century blues and roots music, composer, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Taj Mahal, brings it all on Feb 13. With stunning three-part harmonies, crisp musicianship and a warm, engaging stage presence, Red Molly has been gaining fans since they formed one night at a Falcon Ridge campfire. The lovely ladies bring the warmth on February 21. Opening the show is RI’s own Marc Douglas Berardo whose newest CD, Whalebone, will surely turn new fans onto his music. His songs are musical narratives in the feel of acoustic Springsteen and Waits, with Buffett-esque subjects. You’ll want to own this one. On February 22, one of my all times favorites, one of my biggest musical influences and my friends, Aztec Two-Step, show you why their music has been described as the bridge to the Beat Generation and why they were instrumental in ushering the music of the ’60s into the ’70s and beyond. Bring your toothbrush and stay for the month. So much music you won’t want to leave! For more about these and other shows, Ken doll over to narrowscenter.org (Bob K., get it?)

Love is in the Air on February 7 at the Towers in Narragansett. Catch a night of Broadway Love Songs with a twist of jazz featuring Michael DiMucci, Phoebe Madden, David Marshall, and Ritchee Price accompanied by Philip Martorella. For more, love boat over to thetowersri.com

Also on February 7, Josh Schurman and Paula Clare play the Gallery Acoustic Series at the Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Kingston. For more, bailiff to courthousearts.org

Common Fence Music brings you Zili Misik, a 10-piece all female band that performs New World Soul dance and roots music of the African Diaspora on February 8. Rhode Island’s own global folk-fusion band, The Gnomes, invade the CFP Community Hall on February 15 and ride the Common Fence Music “Roots Caboose” for an evening of music that in some way suggests the topic of a sustainable community. For more, choo-choo to commonfencemusic.org

Blackstone River Theatre will present a split concert featuring Sheila Falls (from Greenville, RI) and Mark Roberts, and the Irish/Norwegian music of NØÍR on Saturday, February 8. For more, fiddle over to riverfolk.org

The Little Compton Band appears Live at the Meeting House on Main Road in Tiverton on Saturday, February 15. For more, greet over to fourcornersarts.org

Saturday, February 15, Tallahassee and Dr. Jones and the Shiners leap into Lily Pads and present their uncharted sonic sound while harnessing diverse styles ranging from indie to classic rock, folk and blues. For more, ribbitt over to musicatlilypads.org.

Monday, February 17 brings Leyla McCalla, The Sugar Honey Iced Tea, and Allysen Callery to the Fete Lounge in Olneyville. For more, “vive la” to fetemusic.com. Get some gaggers or ribs after the show!

Get a jump on March. The 22nd Annual Mardi Gras Ball at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet with Leeroy Thomas and The Zydeco Road Runners, Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys, Cj Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band will serve all of your Fat Tuesday needs on Saturday, March 1. This is one of the biggest and BEST parties of the year. For more, Cajun over to mardigrasri.com

The 15th Annual RI Pride Goddess Show will take place Sunday, March 2 at Chan’s in Woonsocket from 1 to 6 pm. The show will be hosted by the hilarious Poppy Champlin and feature The Mary Day Band, poet-Marie Michaelle, hooper- Rachel Lindenthal, Susan Souza, 5th Elament, Miss Gay RI, Justus, burlesque with Bettysioux Tailor and headliner, Rachael Sage. For more, enlighten your way to prideri.com

That’s it for now. Thanks for reading! John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com Roots Report — You’re Makin’ Me Dizzy

Okee dokee folks … I read a quote the other day. “Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.” That quote has commonly been attributed to Elvis Costello, but upon further investigation it seems that it actually dates back to the late 70s and was coined by RISD Alumnus, Martin Mull. Even further research shows that the seed of the statement possibly may date back as far as 1918 and was published by the New Republic “Writing about music is as illogical as singing about economics.” To include this in my column could be considered heresy and is basically mocking what I do, but I do agree with the sentiment. Writing about music IS like dancing about architecture!

I have been “writing” about music for nearly nine and a half years and I have to admit that most of the time I am flying by the seat of my pants. I know that I “write” this column, but I still don’t seriously consider myself a writer. Sometimes I stare at the screen and my mind will be just as blank as the new document I opened. My job, as a “writer,” is to try to compose an interesting combination of words about performers, concerts and recordings that I think you folks would or should like. I read, I borrow, I create, I cut and paste, I rewrite and I interject quirkiness into what I assemble to TRY and describe the music, get your attention and point it toward something that I feel is worth your time and money. It makes me feel good when people compliment me on my musings but I still shy away from the label of writer. I really do TRY to stay away from the long-winded, self indulgent and masturbatory literary descriptions that make every single song seem as though they were written by Nobel Prize winning geniuses, but occasionally I do acquiesce. This kind of writing, in my opinion, was served up best as a bit of dark humor dialogue in the movie American Psycho when Christian Bale’s character recites CD reviews of Huey Lewis and Phil Collins as he wields an ax and joyfully plunges it into the head of his victim. Other than that, the only real use is for an artist to pull a line or two from a review and add it to their press kits. I have done it myself – the quote pulling for my press kit, not the ax-wielding (though I have been tempted to do the latter). I guess it also could be used to pique your interest in an artist, a recording or a venue. So, what point am I trying to make here? I have no idea. It’s late. I am writing in circles. A dervish. Writing about music is like dancing about architecture. It’s dizzying, I’m dizzy … read on …

Blackstone River Theatre kicks off their new year season with a new incarnation of The Jammin’ Divas on Friday, January 10. The divas perform traditional and contemporary folk music from Ireland, Australia and the US. The Jammin’ Divas are Aoife Clancy (Ireland), Kath Buckell (Australia), Hadar Noiberg (Israel) and the newest diva, Nicole Zuraitis (USA). Becky Chace recently left the Jammin’ Divas to focus on her solo/band performances and was replaced by Nicole Zuraitis. While each of these talented women is individually recognized as an accomplished player and vocalist, it is their combined artistry that creates an unparalleled musical dynamic. Aoife Clancy, from Ireland, is the daughter of Bobby Clancy of the Clancy Brothers. In 1995, Aoife was asked to join the acclaimed group Cherish the Ladies, one of the most sought-after Irish American groups in history. For the past four years, Aoife has toured extensively doing no fewer than 200 dates a year throughout the United States and Europe. With seven recordings under her belt in the last decade, Aoife has clearly established herself as one of the ‘Divas’ of Irish and contemporary folk music. Singer/Songwriter and pianist Nicole Zuraitis is the group’s newest member and has been turning heads with her huge voice and catchy melodies reflecting a broad mixture of jazz, pop and indie fusion. After recently returned from a tour of Asia and India, she was recognized as a finalist in the 2013 Songdoor International Songwriting Contest. Nicole has opened for jazz legend Dave Brubeck and collaborated with world renowned Indian guitarist and composer Prasanna. Australia’s Kath Buckell is a rising folk/rock artist in the US, having previously toured Australia and Israel. She has found her roots in a project that is preserving traditional Australian poetry put to her original music called “Faces Do Not Change.” Hadar Noiberg hails from Israel and grew up with its eclectic musical culture. Hadar was surrounded by various musical styles that are a part of the Israeli melting pot – Middle Eastern, Eastern European, Yemenite and Moroccan music. Since arriving in New York, the flautist has been one of the leading players in the Cuban and Jazz scenes showcasing at Blue Note, Dizzy’s Club, Central Park Summer Stage and Lincoln Center. Through stunning three-part harmonies bedded against a lush melodic landscape, The Jammin’ Divas draw audiences into an experience that transcends the history of three continents by sharing songs and stories of how each country culturally influences and enriches one another. Blackstone River Theatre is located at 549 Broad St in Cumberland just across from Ann & Hope. For more about this show and a list of upcoming shows, canal you way over to: riverfolk.org

Over on the other side of the bay, in “Tiver-town,” Sandywoods Center for the Arts is keeping’ the faith and presenting some top-notch entertainment. Unfortunately this venue is still kind of an undiscovered gem for many – it’s really a destination location. And sometimes, it can be a little hard for even your GPS to get you there. If attendance for the scheduled shows doesn’t increase, they may have to abandon their concert series. So pack a dinner, pick up a six or a box o’wine and get to these BYOB shows! On Saturday, January 11 Neptune’s Car and Michelle Lewis will be serving up some fine sounds to accompany your imbibing. Holly Hanson and Steve Hayes make up the acoustic duo, Neptune’s Car. The Massachusetts/New Hampshire-based duo play original, contemporary folk music. They are known for their intimate performance style, carefully crafted lyrics, generous harmony singing and stellar guitar picking. In 2010, their song “Lighthouse Keeper” reached number one on the Folk DJ chart. Neptune’s Car’s two albums of all-original material have been featured on many critics’ top lists and NPR’s “Car Talk” has spotlighted their music. “Like pie for your ears” is how Michelle Lewis’ music was described at one time. She finds as much exhilaration in performing her music as she does in the rest of her life. When she performs, she is living the life to which her songs aspire. Her music is caring, vivacious and completely authentic. She sings with a smile. Watch her perform and you will understand. Her fingers articulate every note; her voice picks out every word. But you don’t hear notes and you don’t hear words. When Michelle plays, all you hear is music; it all makes sense and sounds wonderful. SandywoodsCenter for the Arts is located at 43 Muse Way in Tiverton. The magic trick to finding them is to dial in 1735 Stafford Road. Get there, then turn right onto Roosevelt and follow it to Muse Way. It’s simpler than it sounds, really. For further directional information and show scheds, organically grow on over to: sandywoodsmusic.com

It seems as though there is a run on certain dates in January and lots of good stuff is happening at the same time. Best to clone yourself and get out to all of them or try to make an informed decision and get to at least one. Down in West Kingston, just a stone’s though from URI, The Courthouse Center for the Arts has been presenting a lot of evidence to support the case that good things are happening there. On Friday, January 10, Jon Patrick Brennan, Sara Bartel, and special guest Wayne Cabral pay tribute to the music of the 60s. They will be performing songs written or made famous by The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Simon and Garfunkel, The Who, Sonny and Cher, The Mamas and the Papas, Marvin Gaye, Frank Sinatra and more. The CourthouseCenter is located at 3481 Kingstown Road (Rte 138). For more about this show and other Courthouse activities, gavel over to: courthousearts.org

Music at Lily Pads leads off their 2014 season with Roz Raskin and the Rice Cakes and special guests Vudu Sister on Saturday, January 11. Roz Raskin and the Rice Cakes are a modern dance rock power trio that come together to bring forth new, genre-blasting, rhythmically charged melodies, “sounding somewhat like the apocalypse and having a lot of fun while they are doing it. They are constantly manifesting new musical ideas, and are always thinking of ways to engage their listeners. Simply put, they are an amazing live band. Vudu Sister is singer/songwriter Keith McCurdy and violinist, Diane O’Connor. Additional featured Vudu Sister accompaniment will be provided by Amato Zinno and Michael Samos, formerly of The Silks and Brown Bird. Vudu Sister craft dark songs and present them through various mediums of “gothy, grunge-tinged folk.” Music at Lily Pads is located in the sanctuary of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation Church of South County, 27 North Road in Peace Dale. For more about this and other shows on tap for 2014, float on over to: musicatlilypads.org

Stone Soup starts off their contribution to the 2014 folk schedule with The Boxcar Lilies and Paul Pasch on Saturday, January 11. The beautiful harmonies of the Boxcar Lilies are supported by great songwriting, guitar, fiddle, banjo and washboard, which makes their shows truly entertaining. Paul Pasch is a songsmith and performer whose songwriting has been compared to that of the Guy Clark. For more about Stone Soup’s 2014 of music, boil your boulders to: stonesoupcoffeehouse.com

Chan’s Restaurant in Woooooooooon–Sock—eeeet also has a lot on its plate besides the Asian cuisine. Shawn Holt & the Teardrops – son of legendary Chicago bluesman Magic Slim, do the blues thang on Wednesday January 15. Michelle Willson holds her CD Release Party for “Fortune Cookie” featuring Scott Shetler on reeds, Shinichi Otsu on piano, Mike Mele on guitar, Sven Larson on bass and Steve Chaggaris on drums on Friday, January 24. Commander Cody (not sure if he lost or found his planet airmen) bring their rock and blues on Friday, January 31. Chan’s is located at 267 Main Street in Woonsocket. For more about Chan’s, the food, the music, the man, the myth, the legend, spring roll over to: chanseggrollsandjazz.com

Finally, I will take you into the first day of February, Saturday, when you can catch the internationally known folkster, Allysen Callery, when she will be playing a double set of traditional and original folk tunes at Boheme Artspace, 504 Main Street in Warren. For more about the art space, rhapsody your way to: bohemeartspace.com

This time of year it is best to check the weather and venue website before heading out to an event. If there’s a milk and bread panic ensuing, it may be a sign that it’s snowing just a little and the show might not go on. Better safe than sorry and stuck in a snow bank or an empty church basement.

That’s it for now. “I have to return some video tapes.” You really should watch American Psycho the next time it snows and you are stuck inside. Add it to your Netflix queue. Oops, I did it again, telling you what to do. Oh, btw, does anyone want to give me a massage … free? I am in desperate need! Thanks for reading! John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com

Roots Report: Hey, Hey it’s Mike Nesmith, and Some Music for Veterans Day

The best in folk, blues, roots and acoustic in the greater RI area Okee dokee folks … How about them Red Sox? Honestly I don’t give a #@%* (insert your favorite expletive here) about them. Sorry, Dad. Folks get mighty excited when the Red Sox win. Not me. People think that having them do well is good for the local economy. Maybe it is. It may help some, but mostly it helps put more cash in the pockets of grossly overpaid players and big corporations. Oh, yeah, and it HURTS local musicians. During the past few weeks, as fair weather fans jumped on the Bosox bandwagon, local musicians’ gigs were canceled. This takes funds from the pockets of musicians who don’t make a lot to start with. In a way, a cancellation beats the indignity of playing in front of a big screen TV that has a game on. Either way, it is not good. This sport’s mania seems to occur every couple of months, be it football, basketball, hockey or whatever sporting event is temporarily exciting the mindless masses. Venue owners and music lovers should focus more on supporting local, working musicians instead of pumping more into the already wealthy sports machine. Remember folks, IT’S JUST A GAME!

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Well, most of what happens. To the surprise of many of my friends and myself, I was in Las Vegas a couple of weeks ago. It was never on my list of places to go. The biggest reason is that I despise gambling. If you are into checking your morals at the border, a 24/7 “frat party” and a place that is hell bent on sucking every dollar out of your pocket before you leave, then Vegas is for you. Contrary to what I have written thus far, I did have a great time. That was mostly because of the company I was keeping. A couple of the highlights of the trip were a visit to The Valley Of Fire about an hour from the strip and the Beatles Love show by Cirque Du Soleil.

I was never very interested in seeing a show by Cirque Du Soleil. My parents have seen most of their shows and always rave about them. To me, it simply sounded like a show where acrobats dangle from ropes to the accompaniment of music. The Love show was far, far more than that. The Cirque Du Soleil Love show featured the music of the Beatles presented in ways that you have never heard. The soundtrack was an almost two-hour blend of some of the Beatles’ best known songs-original and alternative recordings, and between song studio banter. It was all well seasoned and tastefully mixed with program appropriate sound effects. The Love presentation was a constant parade of activity. Several things were always going on at once and it was impossible to focus on just one. To sum it up in simple terms it was like you were having a very, VERY strange dream (or acid trip –whichever you prefer). From the ceiling to below the floor the entertainers entered with strange props and odd costumes. A flying bed, an exploding VW, trampolines, a skateboard half-pipe with a British phone box, hydraulically changing levels, spacemen floating from the corners of the theater and the lonely man bearing flowers that periodically popped up to present them to an unrequited love made up just some of the bizarre and beautiful simultaneity that kept your senses busy. Shadow animations of the Fab Four trying to cross Abby Road, state of the art lighting effects and performance film footage on four screens and scrims augmented the AV portion of the spectacle. This is the kind of experience you would have to have in person to fully appreciate. Videos on TV or the web could never do it justice. I can’t imagine this show ever happening in another location. Between the 50+ cast members; the AV, staging, and rigging requirements, and the vast amount of props involved, it would take a caravan of tractor trailers and buses just to transport and a small army to set-up and operate. This is one of the occasions where you can’t move the mountain; you must go to it. With the high price of concert tix these days the $80 for the admission wasn’t outrageous. If you are a Beatles fan this pilgrimage is a must. If you are gambler, maybe you can win back some of your expenses in on of the nine zillion slot machines that are in every nook and cranny of the city. But remember, you can also lose. If you do plan to go, whatever you do, don’t fly Spirit Airlines – that is another story.

Going from the Fab Four to the Faux Four- Hey, hey, one of the Monkees is coming to town. Mike Nesmith will bring his “Movies of the Mind” tour to the Narrows in Fall River on Monday, November 11. This performance will touch on the highlights of Nesmith’s 50-year music career. Best known for his start as the singing, wool-capped, Gretsch guitar-slinging co-star of the Monkees television series, his songs were recorded not only by the Monkees, but Linda Ronstadt, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, the Butterfield Blues Band and Run-DMC. In addition to this, he is a movie producer (Repo Man, Timerider, and Tapeheads), and he also founded Pacific Arts, a record and video production house and book publishing company. He was the first and only winner of the Grammy Award for Video of the Year for his 1981 long-form video, “Elephant Parts.” He is also the inventor and founder of Videoranch3D, for which he holds a patent. With the notable exception of “Listen to the Band,” the tour will focus primarily on Nesmith’s post-Monkees work, both solo and with the First National Band. This body of work has been described by Rolling Stone as “the greatest music never heard.” Hey, hey, he was a Monkee, he got rich (from Liquid Paper) after he monkey-ed around, he’ll be busy singing, and he’s coming to our town!!! OK, that was bad – especially if you didn’t get it. Just go to the show! For more, swing over to: narrowscenter.org.

“I Ain’t Marchin’ Anymore” is probably one of the best protest songs to come out of the anti-Vietnam war era. It was written by the late Phil Ochs. These days, many people probably don’t know who Phil Ochs is, but should. He was a singer-songwriter in the 60s and 70s who wrote and sang about the issues of the time – Vietnam, civil rights, and organized labor. And, while his songs were written for this time, they continue to speak for our time, causing us to think about the issues and injustices that are happening now. His songs were crafted with tunes and lyrics that stay with the listener; they are infused with his sharp wit and humor.

Phil Ochs was born in El Paso, Texas, in 1940. He grew up in a non-political, middle class family. While in college at The Ohio State University, Phil formed his political beliefs and started putting them to music. After three years of college, Phil dropped out and went to New York City. This was during the early 1960s when things were booming in Greenwich Village. Phil started out singing at open mikes and passing the hat. By 1964, he was well enough established to release his first album, “All the News That’s Fit To Sing.” His second album, I Ain’t Marching Anymore, was released in 1965, and by 1966 he was able to sell out Carnegie Hall for his solo concert. He suffered from manic depression and an affinity for alcohol. He committed suicide on April 9, 1976, at the age of 35.

He left many songs and a legacy that is carried on by his sister, Sonny Ochs. I met Sonny about 20 years ago at a Folk Alliance conference in New York. She was a New York folk DJ and some of the guerilla showcases she ran at the conferences featured the music of Phil Ochs. Now she organizes touring Phil Ochs Song Nights. Stone Soup Coffeehouse will host one of these concerts on November 23. Greg Greenway, Sharon Katz, Joyce Katzberg, Magpie (Greg Artzner and Terry Leonino), David Roth, and Pat Wictor will be the musicians performing Ochs’ tunes. At Phil Ochs Tribute Nights you will hear from contemporary singer-songwriters who continue to sing about the right from the wrong, who continue to do their share to sing about injustices, who continue to praise and blame people, actions and organizations.

Ochs recorded this in 1966: “And I won’t know the right from the wrong when I’m gone … Can’t say who’s to praise and who’s to blame when I’m gone … Can’t be singing louder than the guns when I’m gone …So I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here.” The Phil Ochs’ Tribute performers continue to sing louder than the guns. Although Ochs is gone, his voice and his legacy continue as they sing his songs and their own. For more, (don’t) march over to: stonesoupcoffeehouse.com.

The Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame and The Ocean Mist present The Unity Concerts two-day event to benefit the Tune In & Tune Up Rhode Island Musicians Health Awareness Program on Saturday, November 9, from 6 pm to 1 am and Sunday, November 10, from 2 pm until midnight. The concert- fundraiser will take place at The Ocean Mist in Wakefield. Admission is $20 per day or $35 for a weekend ticket. All proceeds go to the Rhode Island Musicians Health Awareness Program. RIMHOF board member and Tune In & Tune Up cofounder Russell Gusetti says, “It can be scary being a musician. We usually have no health insurance unless we are lucky enough to have a spouse who does. Musicians have no benefits, nor do we make much to begin with. We end up holding benefit concerts for fellow musicians who have suffered major health events.”

The weekend features four inductees to the RI Music Hall of Fame and every musician member of the R.I. Music Hall of Fame board. Slated to perform are Kim Petrarca and The Brian McKenzie Band, Adrienne West and the Tabers, Rossoni, The Brian McKenzie Band, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, The 100 Watt Suns, The Rudy Cheeks Band, Ken Lyon, The Zimmermen, Longshot VooDoo, Becky Chace, Mark Cutler, Pendragon, Roomful of Blues, Steve Smith & the Nakeds, and James Montgomery. If you are queasy about going out on a Sunday because it is a school night, remember that Monday is Veterans Day and if you are lucky, you have the day off! For more, rock on over to rhodeislandmusichalloffame.com. Running out of room, but you should go to these shows! If you saw David Tessier and company’s Jesus Christ Superstar concert at the PVD Social Club last year, you will be thrilled to know that they are doing it again! If you missed it, here is your chance to finally see it. Last year’s shows were amazing. Don’t miss this one – you will regret it if you do. This year’s version will happen on Saturday, November 16, at Manchester 65 in West Warwick. Find out what the buzz is at manchester65.com.

Boomer Power, a tribute to the Baby Boomer Generation with Billy Mitchell, takes place at the Brooklyn Coffee and Tea House in Providence on Saturday, November 9, from 8 to 10 pm. Boomer Power is a feel-good show that explores the Baby Boomer experience through original songs such as “Assisted Livin’,” “You Still Got it,” “Gettin’ Old Ain’t for Sissies,” “Prescription Drugs,” and “I Wish I Could Remember What I Said I’d Never Forget.” Also experience some Boomer humor, interactive games, and satirical observations. For more, hobble over to BoomerTunesConcerts.com.

Common Fence Point hosts The Horn of Plenty Music concert on Saturday, November 23. The performance features a harvest of some of the best area musical talent: Michael Troy, Allysen Callery, Haunt the House/Will Houlihan, The Throttles, Greg Burgess, and series favorites – The Folk Support Group (Ed McGuirl and Mike Fishman). For more, cornucopia over to commonfencemusic.org.

That’s it for now. The sugar high from the leftover Halloween candy is wearing off, maybe I will sleep. Thanks for reading! John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com

Roots Report: Graham Nash Review and Music From the World

Okee dokee folks … I can’t believe that I have been writing this column for nine years now. OK, not this very column, though sometimes it seems like it takes me that long to finish it and get it in. I am never on time! Anyway, in the past nine years we have changed the paper’s format-several times, changed logos a few times and even changed owners, but we have always stuck with our main mission of letting you know about the great stuff in and around Rhode Island! Read on …

Graham Nash Still Has It!

Last week I went to see Graham Nash at the Park Theatre in Cranston. My band mate, Dan Lilley, joined me for the show. We are still talking about it! Graham played a two hour, two set show that included hits from the Hollies, CSN(Y) and his past and current solo releases such as “Wild Tales,” “Our House,” “Cathedral,” “Just a Song Before I Go,” and “Teach Your Children.” He also performed the Beatles’ “Blackbird” as well as Neil Young’s “Ohio.” The songs were presented simply by Nash and two back-up musicians. His voice was in fine form and he didn’t miss a note. At 71 years old, Nash still has it, unlike his sometimes band mates, David Crosby and Steven Stills, who are visibly past the time that they should retire. Graham was quite chatty between songs and spoke of times with CSNY, his life, politics and even referenced his ex-girlfriend, Joni Mitchell. The between song banter alone made the concert memorable! The performance wasn’t quite sold out, but should have been. It’s not often you get to see a performer of Nash’s stature in such an intimate venue. The Park Theatre was a wonderful setting for this event. For some reason, this venue still hasn’t registered on many Rhode Islanders’ radar. It is a VERY comfortable venue – seriously, the seats are like recliners. It is also VERY easy to get to and (usually) parking isn’t an issue. There is plenty of free parking allowed in the lot behind the high school/town hall, which is right across the street. Unfortunately, that night there was an open house at the high school and the lots were pretty full.

There are many good shows coming up at the Park Theatre, Ani DiFranco being one of them. You really should give the Park a shot. Hopefully they keep up the good work! For more, parallel over to parktheatreri.com.

Josie Down Under

Australia really seems to agree with Josie Crosby. The former south county resident and part of the local music scene headed down under four years ago. She met a physicist from Oz, fell in love and decided to join the Aussie when he returned home. Josie was a big part of the community (solo performer, member of the band, Signs Of Life, worked at PM Recording Studios and South County Music Exchange) and when she left, she left many folks missing her, myself included. Fortunately, we have the internet and keeping in touch is fairly easy via e-mail, Skype and the occasional phone call.

The reason that I say that “Australia must agree with her” is because I was floored by her newest CD, For The Win. From the first notes I liked it, and the more I heard, the more I liked it. All of the time she has been in Australia Josie has been playing music. It took her a while to fit in and meet people, but it is clear she has met the right musicians. These musicians make up her current band, The Lucky Numbers. She says, “I got invited to play at a benefit for a wonderful lady by a fellow songwriter I met here. We rehearsed with a band a few times and that is how I met some of the guys I play with now. Through them and playing open mics and solo gigs, I met the others.” I always enjoyed Josie’s music when she was here, but since her “expatriotation,” her music has grown and developed into something that is distinctly Josie. To make it easier for you all to grasp her sound, imagine a vocal blend of Sinead O’ Connor and Dolores O’Riordan (Cranberries) with the backing of a solid, clean rhythm section. Add to that a bluesy, rock sound with a touch of Texas swing, country, folk and a very slight reggae edge. Layer in some great harmonica, violin/fiddle, keys, banjo and mandolin and you have the ingredients that make For The Win such an enjoyable listen. All of the songs were written or co-written by Crosby. She says, “Some of them are older, like ’Waiting On The Rain,’ ‘Blood on my Door,’ ‘Are you Happy.’ ‘Blue Light’ was one I wrote about PM Recording (remember the blue lights in there?) Some of them are Australian songs and some American.” Josie’s favorite songs from the CD are “Rise” and “Take Me Down.” “Rise” is my favorite. I am a sucker for those inspirational type songs that have hand claps. When I told Josie that “Rise” was my favorite, she said, “I’m glad you like that song. It’s kind of for you. I wrote it after talking with you once when you were a bit down and I was sending you good vibes.” I blushed and thanked her. The song starts out with, “The road you travel is littered with lies. You have friends at your side. Instead of sorrow, let hope be your guide … and you will rise.”

There is another RI connection to that CD: my band mate in Forever Young, Pete Vendettuoli. I met Pete through Josie and that is how he wound up in FY. Pete contributed a mandolin part to one of the songs. I asked Pete how he did that. “She sent me an mp3 and I loaded it into my recorder. I recorded my part as a .wav file and sent it back to her over Skype.” The CD cover art was illustrated by Josie’s mom, Judy Bajus-Davis, who lives in Ohio. The woman on the cover looks a lot like Josie though according to Crosby, “It wasn’t supposed to, but she is my Mom after all!” She added, “It’s quite amazing how much we used the internet on this project.” The CD was produced, mixed and mastered by Josie’s beau, Matt Slivkoff, the Aussie who brought her there. In addition to being a physicist, he is quite the musician. For now Josie and the Lucky Numbers will be touring around the Perth/Freemantle region of Western Australia with hopes of branching out much farther. Possibly to the States. She says, “That’s all part of my master plan!”

Until that dream can be realized, I asked her if she had anything to say to her friends and fans here in RI. “I’d like to tell everyone back home that little Rhody still has a big place in my heart and will always be a part of me and the music I make. I really look forward to getting back there someday and sharing my experiences and songs with my friends. I can’t wait till we all get to play together again!” In the meantime, you all should definitely give the disc a listen and/or buy it online. For more about Josie Crosby and the Lucky Numbers, take a spin over to theluckynumbers.com.

Tracie Puts Out The Dream

A little (ok, a lot) closer to RI, we have a new CD from Tracie Potochnik. What can I say about Tracie? She looks like she is pure as the driven snow, innocent, proper and quiet, but turns a song about murder into a sing-a-long. “Jimmy took the money and put a bullet in that poor man’s head,” and she sings it with a smile! She can sometimes seem like she is overly inspired by the darker dealings of humanity, but then will come out with the comical “Chicken Salad” in which the refrain sometimes must be edited if there are children in the room.

Potochnik’s music is a combination of country and folk with finely tuned lyrics. Tracie writes the songs, sings, and plays guitar and mandolin. On the CD she is accompanied by steel guitar, keys, percussion and more, giving a full sound to the songs. She has great sense of humor and at live performances, often blurts out bizarre, hysterical passages between songs. At one show she told the audience that she had a “mandolinjury” – she cut her finger on her mandolin.

She is influenced by the old country that has class – George Jones, Tammy Wynette and Dolly Parton – not the bad, pop country of today. She also loves Cher, but we will just gloss over that part. Her new CD is called The Dream – inspired by a roller rink that she saw on one of her travels. The 12-song album gives you a well-rounded feel of Potochnik’s sound and style. The songs will make you laugh, think and maybe even cry. The CD artwork was beautifully created by her photographer/artist boyfriend, Matthew Clowney. “Originally hailing from Pittsburgh, Tracie Potochnik now makes her home in Providence. She brings three chords, the truth and occasionally a mandolin to her shows.“ Tracie will be celebrating the release of The Dream on Saturday night, October 12, at the Mediator Stage in Providence. The show starts at 7:30 pm. The same night, G.W. Mercure will celebrate the release his new album, Kitchen Hymns. Tracie and G.W. will each play a set (including some special guests!) and do a mini-set together as a duo. For more info about the show, skate your way to facebook.com/mediatorstage.

Songwriters In The Round

Last month I was fortunate enough to perform at the RI Songwriters Association’s Songwriters In The Round show at AS220. I love being part of these shows for many reasons. #1.) They are a LOT of fun to play. I had a blast joking with fellow songwriter Andrea LaFazia sitting next to me on stage! It’s a very loose format and the interplay between performers and audience can be hilarious. #2.) I get to meet and perform with artists who I may never have heard of before. In this case, I got the opportunity to hear a young songwriter, Erica Russo. I really liked her songs. #3.) And this is my favorite reason – I get to write a new song based on a theme that was chosen by the previous month’s audience. I have written some of my best songs when I have been forced to write about something that I may have never considered, and I have heard some of the best songs from other writers as well. There are more reasons, but it’s getting late and I am running out of room so I will get to it.

The next Songwriters In The Round show at AS220 will take place on Sunday, October 13 from 6 to 8 pm. It’s early, it’s only five bucks to get in, it’s very entertaining and fun. What more reasons do YOU need to go? Scheduled for the October show are Daniel and Faith Senie, Beth DeSombre, Chris LaVancher and the evening is rounded out by host, Joanne Lurgio. They each perform three to four originals plus one new song, based on the theme, “Truth Is.” This month’s audience gets to pick the theme for the next month. Go. Have fun. You know you want to! For more, compose your way to risongwriters.com.

Medieval Music Gets New Life

Over at Blackstone River Theatre, they will present an evening of medieval songs and poetry featuring the UK’s Mediaeval Baebes on Sunday, October 6 at 7 pm. The allure is undeniable. Six talented, attractive women who breathe new life into the texts of medieval songs and poetry, and their hauntingly beautiful music captures the imagination and devotion of a modern audience. They are the the UK’s number one selling classical vocal group, and in 19 years they have placed three albums into the top of the UK classical charts and performed before enthusiastic audiences in the UK, Canada, Europe and the US. Yet, their music defies any traditional classification and people of all ages, backgrounds and musical tastes have become fans of the Baebes. For more about the show, crusade your way to riverfolk.org.

Live Show Round-up Finally, here are some random shows for you to fill the emptiness of your lives. The Norman Bird Sanctuary’s 39th Annual Harvest Fair happens on Saturday and Sunday, October 5 and 6, in Portsmouth. On Saturday, starting at 11 am, are Sibling Rivalry, The Smokey Barrel Band, Minor Swing, Otis Read, Castle and it winds up at 4 pm with The Rank Strangers. Sunday starts at 11 am with Jim McGrath, Allysen Callery, Mark Cutler’s Men of Great Courage, Keith McCurdy’s Vudu Sister, Natasha Harrison and Chuck Ciany, and it closes with the The Silks at 4 pm. Fly over to normanbirdsanctuary.org for more. Saturday, October 12, Susan Cowsill returns to RI to perform her solo material at Manchester 65 in West Warwick. Opening the show will be Lisa Couto and Ray Cooke and Kari Tieger. At Lily Pads in Peacedale, also on Saturday, October 12, their world music journey continues with Matuto. At The Space To Be, Studio 200, in the Shady Lea Mill, on Tuesday night, October 15, Montreal-born singer-songwriter, Chris Velan, who has drawn comparisons to Paul Simon for his West African influenced folk pop, and the multiple award winning songwriter/performer, Ria Mae, will fill the space with the sounds of their songs. They’ll make the Space To Be the space to really be! For info, send one of those electronic mails to [email protected]. The Beehive Queen, Christine Ohlman and The Montez Boys return to Chan’s in Woonsocket on Friday, October 18. Also at Chan’s on Saturday the 19, Ursula George plays pre-war Vaudeville-era jazz and blues. (www.chanseggrollsandjazz.com).

That’s it for now. Thanks for reading!

John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com