NYC Artists Scene

We Moved!!!

2009-09-28T19:13:00.003-04:00

Thanks to all of you loyal followers and interested audiences, NYC Art Scene has moved to an easier and more recognizable location. Our new address is http://nycartscene.com, and will feature pictures, videos, and links in addition to our artist profiles and upcoming shows. Please check us out and reset your favorites to http://nycartscene.com.

Thanks! See you there!

Who's In Town This Week?

2009-09-23T00:00:00.007-04:00

Wednesday, September 23:

Catch NYC Artist ZACH HURD's Record Release at Rockwood Music Hall, 8:00pm. Free show and copies of the new CD available! Ryan Vaughn on Drums/Percussion!

Friday, September 25:

Hans Blix, "an improvisational stream of consciousness, captured in its' entirety from beginning to end" will be playing the Apple Store at West 14th St, 7:00pm. Come check out their new and innovative sound!

Robbie Gil plays Rockwood Music Hall, 12:00am... come check out his newest album and have a night cap :)

Saturday, September 26

Ian Axel's Album Listening Party at Rockwood Music Hall, 3:00pm. Free show, fall weather, great music... who could ask for more?

Then, stick around for Lucius at 8:00pm, also at Rockwood.

Sunday, September 27

8:00pm-10:00pm at Rockwood... Bryan Dunn Birthday Show, featuring artists: Jessi Robertson, Lara Ewen, Casey Shea, Chris Cubeta, Luke Wesley, Emily Easterly, and Tom Hayes. Quite a line-up, don't miss it!

Keep checking in with NYC Artists Scene... we have some EXCITING events and feature articles coming this October!

Music This Weekend!

2009-09-18T09:00:00.003-04:00

Great acts to catch this weekend in NYC!

Friday, September 18:

ANDY GRAMMER at Rockwood Music Hall, 10:00pm. Come check out this LA-based artist back home on the East Coast at a FREE Rockwood show!

Saturday, September 19:

From 8-11pm at ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL...

8:00pm NATE CAMPANY

9:00pm HANS & SVEN

10:00pm THE MIEKA CANON

ALSO Saturday, September 20:

MARTIN & CRAIG'S CAMPFIRE at The Red Lion, 7-10pm

No Sunday Campfire this week!

New Artist: Monica Ott

2009-09-16T11:21:00.000-04:00

Today's NEW featured artist is Monica Ott, whose debut album "Only Human" is set to release at The Bitter End Thursday, October 1 at 8:30pm! Also be sure to visit her brand new website- www.monicaott.com for more information, downloads, and show dates. Here's a little info on Monica, who received Honorable Mention in the prestigious New York Songwriter's Circle contest:

"Singer/songwriter, Monica Ott is proving to be what the term is all about. Hailing from Baltimore, and relocated to New York City, Monica's not a self-proclaimed singer/songwriter because she writes a couple lines of a song, but is, instead, involved in the process every step of the way. From the original conception of the words to the evolution of the music and melodies and final production, Monica Ott's personal goal is to showcase the story of each song. That said, her debut album Only Human was just recently released. Only Human has been called 'a modern album with a timeless sound'."

Welcome to NYC Artists Scene Monica! We'll be sure to take a listen!

Emily Zuzik: Fun, Fearless, and Absolutely Fabulous

2009-09-15T14:37:00.008-04:00

Often the most frightening and difficult decisions made in life are the ones that turn the tides. They challenge you, question your strength, and leave you feeling both empowered and completely helpless in one swift move. For Emily Zuzik, it was a summer internship in NYC making the tedious NJ Transit commute, a craving for the excitement and stimulation of the city, and the encouragement of a friend who told her, “You just have to go. It will all work out,” to make the biggest choice of her adult life. In that moment, Emily purchased a one-way ticket, grabbed her college graduation money, and said goodbye to her suburban Pennsylvania roots, bravely facing the city that would open doors of opportunity of which most spend their whole lives simply dreaming. “It never would have happened if I let fear control me,” confidently states Zuzik.

Raised in a Catholic home where singing in choirs and folk mass dominated her youth, Emily honed in on her musical abilities around age twelve, rediscovering the guitar and keyboard, writing and recording on cassette tapes, playing in bands throughout junior high, high school, and college, and consistently embracing music as a creative outlet. It was after her move to San Francisco in 1999, where she approached the open mic scene two to three times a week, feeling welcomed by the community there and finding a place in both cover and original bands, that the sultry singer-songwriter thought to herself “I could have a go at this.” From that point forward music was no longer just a hobby; it was a career she attacked with great confidence and force.

The open mic scene in San Francisco didn’t always crossover to gigs, and Emily found the music scene somewhat inundated with cover bands and specialty sounds- a free-spirited, hippie vibe complete with matching costuming and a theatrical undertone. “The quality of songwriting and playing strikes me as being higher in New York. People come here to make it,” Zuzik notes in comparing the level of professionalism between the two cities. “You find everything here. The top players in the world all come through New York.” While San Francisco tends to turn around new artists every two years or so, NYC offers more room for growth and expansion, allowing all different kinds of people to build a life. Three months after 9/11 struck, Emily and her then-boyfriend found themselves back to New York City, reasoning at the time that New York offered more opportunities than the already crash-ridden San Francisco. “It was a great time to be in New York because there was such a communal spirit,” Zuzik recalls. “Everyone was just trying to get through the madness.”

Since moving back Emily has been extensively involved with numerous aspects of the music and arts business. Originally attending college to be a broadcast journalist, Zuzik used to feel a great deal of pressure to produce an instant answer to the daunting question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Coming from a background where not knowing the answer to that question was just as bad as saying the wrong thing, Zuzik spent much of her adult life exploring a variety of career opportunities in addition to singing and performing. “I don’t know what I thought I was going to be. Part of my life is figuring it out day-to-day,” reveals Emily, citing that her secret to staying sane. Always a writer, keeping journals throughout high school and college in addition to her music and lyrics, Emily has also dabbled in the world of publishing, acting, modeling, print media, and journalism, inevitably coming back to her work creating and collaborating in different facets of music. “Even though I do work in other industries I’m doing something with music everyday, whether it’s prepping for a show, or working with music licensing, commercial singing, jingles, or background vocals.” Zuzik explains.

That same free-spirited, open-minded attitude transcends into Emily’s music and lyrics, which are layered with strength, depth, and often-brutal honesty. Usually writing from an independent, strong-willed mindset, Zuzik observes her shift in perspective as she’s grown and experienced life. Always seeking freedom and success, her style and attitude differs from many of the standard female singer-songwriters the public has grown accustomed to. “I don’t write a lot of love songs,” Emily declares matter-of-factly, ”Because usually if I’m in love I don’t have a lot of time to be writing songs.”

Lyrically, she examines the complicated parts of relationships, the relatable pieces many are often unwilling or ashamed to talk about, such as those where a strong connection cannot compensate for the pain of moving forward, making it easier to simply walk away. Zuzik finds these situations to be just as valid, harboring no fear in expressing her thoughts despite facing possible scrutiny. The song “Breaking It Down,” from her 2006 album “You Had Me at Goodbye” examines the idea of knowing and acknowledging you’re in an abusive relationship, calling out the other person, but are not yet willing to leave. “What about all these other scenarios?” Zuzik questions, adding, “They’re not pretty. They’re not the Hallmark cards.”

This exploration of vulnerability, a commanding stage presence, and a delicate fusion of beauty, intimidation, humor, and talent beguiles audiences, channeling the same musical dominance of early 90s fem-rockers like Aimee Mann, Liz Phair, and PJ Harvey. Admired by many in the NYC community, Zuzik is not only successful as a solo artist but also as a collaborator, frequently sent tracks and given carte blanche to write, bringing the pressure down in working with others, and opening the doors of opportunity to write from alternate perspectives and try on different personalities. The ease in which she transitions from one craft to the next is an inspiration to any artist, encouraging the impossible, stimulating the spirit, and reminding us all that life is simply about taking chances, living to the fullest, and not being afraid to take that giant leap of faith.

For more information on Emily, including links to music and tour dates, please visit www.emilyzuzik.com, MySpace, or Facebook.

Happenings This Week!

2009-09-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

NYC Artists Playing This Week!

Monday, September 14: EMILY ZUZIK at Rockwood Music Hall, 8:00pm, FREE SHOW! Emily is also this week's featured artist, check out her article this Tuesday! www.rockwoodmusichall.com

Tuesday, September 15: Canal Room Presents JAY NASH and TONY LUCCA with Special Guests MATT DUKE & CAITLIN CROSBY... 8:00PM, $10 advance/$12 door. www.canalroom.com

Wednesday, September 16: AMY REGAN at The Living Room, 9:00pm, FREE SHOW! www.livingroomny.com

Thursday, September 17: NYC Artist EMILY HOPE PRICE w/special guests at Rockwood Music Hall, 8:00pm, FREE SHOW!

Support your independent artist community in NYC!

New Artist: Debbie Neigher

2009-09-09T15:03:00.003-04:00

Tonight at National Underground check out Debbie Neigher! http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=140818174536

Here's a little information about Debbie:

Don’t let her size fool you; this 5’1” singer-songwriter is not afraid to bang on the keys. Learning piano at age four, composing music at age thirteen, and recording her first EP in her living room at age fifteen, Debbie Neigher has been crafting music on her own terms for as long as she can remember. Her classical training in piano, her father's love for jazz, and a childhood of attending punk and hardcore shows in her native state of New Jersey have all helped to forge her unique sound. Debbie's unabashed blend of rock, jazz, and pop is a refreshing surge of originality, combining unapologetically loud piano riffs with silky vocals. Debbie’s catchy melodies and honest lyrics allow this young artist to truly stand out as she frequents the talented singer-songwriter music scene.

Debbie Neigher Trio Live @ National Underground
September 9th, 7:00 pm
$5 Cover, 21+
This show will feature songs from Debbie's soon-to-be-released "Home" EP and is her last East Coast show before she moves to San Francisco!

myspace.com/debbieneigher
sonicbids.com/debbieneigher

Make sure to stop by!

Music, Music, Music.. THIS WEEK!

2009-08-31T09:08:00.004-04:00

Start your week off with a little bit of music....

TONIGHT, MONDAY AUGUST 31- Martin and Craig's BACKSCRATCH III, featuring Kailin Garrity, Wes Hutchinson, Patryk Larney, Martin Rivas, Mike Tait, Rachel Zamstein, Byron Zanos, and Emily Zuzik. Click this Backscratch link to read the details, and join us at 10:00pm at The Red Lion for a great night of music and fun!!

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1- Will Knox, SleeperStar, and Tom LoSchiavo at Canal Room, 8:00pm! Details here: Will Knox at Canal Room

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2- REBEL SPIRIT MUSIC SEPTEMBER SERIES at ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL, FEATURING: Jillian Rhys, Mando Saenz, Ari Herstand + Shayna Zaid & the Catch. 8:00-11:00 PM... Come support these incredible artists as they play their hearts out and share their talents within the walls of this prestigious venue. Details on the invite: Rebel Spirit September Series.

Keep following NYC Artists Scene for the latest updates on who's playing around town, music reviews, and profiles on New York's hottest independent artists!

The Larney Brothers: Hello To Farewell EP Release

2009-08-27T09:30:00.002-04:00

This Saturday marks a new chapter in Patryk Larney's music career, as he and brother Michael are set to release "Farewell Buffalo," a four-track EP produced by Mike Visceglia and Zak Soulam, featuring the first wave of new songs to hit audiences since 2006, when the two formerly known as "Naked Underneath" recorded "50 Miles From Hope."

Highlights of "Farewell Buffalo" include Patryk and Michael Larney on vocals and guitar, and the combined talent of some of New York's finest musicians: Visceglia, Soulam, Dan Torres, Ryan Vaughn, Brian Killeen, Doug Yowell, and Caleb Hawley. The separately produced bonus track by DBV Productions, "City in the Fall," explores Larney's homage to the city that reawakened his songwriting, creativity, and spirit, rounding out an EP infused with a consummate blend of liveliness and honesty, exemplifying a maturity in sound and a love for the art.

Join Patryk and Michael, Chris Anderson, Josh Dion, Dan Tirer and a variety of special guests at The Bitter End this Saturday, August 29 at 9:30pm... CD's will be available! Additional info can be found at www.patryklarney.com.

NYC Artists Playing This Week!

2009-08-26T09:55:00.000-04:00

Celebrate the last days of summer with music from your favorite NYC Artists!

Wednesday, August 26

CALEB HAWLEY- Rockwood Music Hall, 8:00pm www.rockwoodmusichall.com

Thursday, August 27

NICK HOWARD: Mercury Lounge, 8:00pm opening for Company of Thieves- www.mercuryloungenyc.com

ZACH HURD: The Living Room, 8:00pm "Changing Landscapes" Album Pre-Release also featuring NYC Artists Ryan Vaughn and Caleb Hawley- www.livingroomny.com

THE MIEKA CANON: Rockwood Music Hall, 10:00pm, Final Night of Rockwood Residency- www.rockwoodmusichall.com

Friday, August 28

CASEY SHEA: Highline Ballroom w/Jesse Lynn and Paula Valstein, 7:00pm- www.highlineballroom.com

BRENT SHUTTLEWORTH: Mercury Lounge, 8:00pm- www.mercuryloungenyc.com

COME OUT AND SUPPORT!

Zach Hurd: New Beginnings

2009-08-25T12:12:00.005-04:00

For a city that bolsters such beauty, power, and culture, it’s not hard to understand why people are often intimidated by her presence. Talent is abundant, seeping out of the aged, familiar cracks on the streets, echoing softly in the branches of the massive trees that have seen generations grow up and move on, whispering in our ears as we stroll down the streets our beloved artists once walked on, feeling the same nerves and anxiety that exist today. For Zach Hurd, a tall, quiet singer-songwriter hailing from Maine, his chiseled features and calm exterior were a simple façade, masking the concerns and fears of moving to New York.

Hesitant to relocate to the city after years of playing out in Maine, Connecticut, and New Jersey in addition to touring the country with his former band “Causeway,” Zach worried he would fall into the path he’d seen so many musicians succumb to- get a day job, work endlessly to pay rent and make ends meet, and eventually forgo music because there just wasn’t enough time. Fortunately, Hurd has experienced quite the opposite; he found himself inspired by and able to identify with the positive vibe in NYC. “New York has this reputation of being so saturated with artists and musicians, and I guess it is in some ways,” Zach explains. “But when you’re here and you’re doing it- it doesn’t feel quite so unattainable… It gave me a new sense of determination and urgency to really be involved in what I’m passionate about.”

Growing up in a home where both parents were singers, one of Zach’s first memories was observing and hearing his mom sing. “I remember seeing it and thinking ‘Wow, that’s amazing,” Hurd recalls, grinning. “My mom has this really powerful voice and she just connects with people.” While Zach inherited the singing genes, he lacked in the stage presence department, opting to play and write songs on his electric guitar in the privacy of his room or as a part of a group. Bands like Nirvana, Jimmy Hendrix, Green Day, and Pearl Jam were influences in his early years, and after learning many of their songs and beginning to write his own, Hurd and a friend were ready to take on an open mic freshman year of high school. “I could have wet myself I was so nervous,” laughs Zach, recalling the memory.

Over time, the nervousness wore off, and Hurd continued to hone his skills throughout high school and college, eventually forming Causeway with Barbara Pecirep and booking college tours throughout the country. The duo moved to Middletown, NJ as an attempt to get closer to New York City, but after a year and a half Zach decided to break out on his own, picking up and moving to Williamsburg two years ago. The move was an attempt to start focusing on his own music and ambitions, and felt a bit nerve-wracking at first for the new kid in town. “When I moved here, it felt like I was starting all over again,” Hurd confesses.

The singer-songwriter began playing out everywhere he could, making connections, playing open mics such as Spike Hill and Heartland, and re-visiting the New York Songwriter’s Circle, an organization he was already familiar with during his time in Causeway. Feeling apprehensive about going solo and unsure how it would be received, Zach was pleased to find it opened some new doors for him, helping to meet new people, boost his wavering confidence, and obtain feedback and support on new work.

Now Hurd is preparing to release his latest album “Changing Landscapes,” recorded at Thump Studios in Greenpoint, and features Hurd, Richard Levengood (the owner of Thump) on drums, Nick Sullivan on bass, and Norman Vladimir, Lourdes Santiago, and his mom Laurie Hurd on back up vocals. After years of trial and error, Zach is extremely proud of the finished product, and looking forward to the upcoming record release show at The Living Room on August 27 at 8:00pm. “I took more risks,” Hurd reveals, “It’s experimental in places. I wanted to try new sounds, think more out of the box.”

Often lyrically inspired by the more challenging parts of life, such as relationships gone wrong and death, Zach also finds himself stimulated by creative people and fellow artists, observing life through a new, metaphorical pair of glasses. “People who are always creating inspire me to want to go back to my apartment and write,” claims Hurd, adding, “I’ve been moved a lot lately by painters and visual art. Living in the city there’s so much of it- its so visually stimulating. There’s so much to work with.”

As time passes and life continually evolves, Zach’s love and passion for music grows exceedingly evident. Determined to maintain a career based on longevity and a wonderfully loyal fan base, much like singer-songwriters James Taylor and Beck, Hurd greatly admires creativity and classic resonation, striving to produce the same qualities in his own work. “The music is really important to them,” Zach notes. “Yeah, they’ve had some hits that allowed them to continue their careers, but it’s easy to see it’s not about the hit song, it’s about doing what’s right for the music… Just doing what you love.”

An artist who has quietly crept into the NYC music scene with his inventive, captivating sound and a warm sincerity that instantly draws you in, Zach is bound to make giant strides in the wake of his latest album. Understanding the importance of overcoming hardships and insecurities and pushing yourself to get to the places you need to be, Hurd is the upcoming artist to watch- securing a place on the stage and a place in the hearts of enthusiastic audiences and familiar faces that make the “Big Apple” seem that much smaller.

For more information on Zach please visit www.myspace.com/zhurd or find Zach on Facebook at www.facebook.com/zachhurdmusic. Be sure to check out the Record Release of "Changing Landscapes at The Living Room this Thursday, 8:00pm and get your copy!

Amber Rubarth: A Cinderella Story

2009-08-19T14:16:00.009-04:00

Once upon a time in a land far, far away there lived a little girl named Amber Rubarth whose love for music started with the piano at age 3. As she grew up, the inexperienced, shy, and insecure teenager found herself torn about what path she desired to take in life, and so, Amber said goodbye to her lovely home in California and set forth on a journey to discover what lay ahead. The 17-year-old found herself in Carson City, Nevada, originally planning to attend college but drawn to another unique and unusual livelihood.

On a simple bike ride one afternoon Amber came across a flyer for a wood sculpture apprenticeship. Thinking, “That sounds fun,” she researched the opportunity further and discovered an unexpected interest in the art. Three and half years later, Rubarth’s teacher noticed her enthusiasm dwindling and encouraged her to determine what inspired and sparked excitement within, and then to pursue it. “I knew it was music,” Amber says, reflecting on her early experimentation with songwriting and playing. “But I had never played guitar and I had never played out. It was such a personal thing.”

And here our fairytale begins. Rubarth packed up the wood sculpting career, and headed to Reno to explore her dormant passion. Hitting up local coffee shops to check out musicians passing through, it was after Joel Ackerson and Seth Horan, both singer-songwriters from New York, ventured into town on tour that Amber discovered her first big connection into the music world. Rubarth was invited to join them on tour, and took the opportunity to dive into and learn more about the singer-songwriter world that was so fresh and new to this budding artist.

A painfully shy adolescent, Amber wrote her first three songs as a freshman in high school, using songwriting as an outlet because she was hesitant to talk to people about her feelings. During her time in Reno, playing out and observing the talents that passed through the city, Rubarth started to come into her own, and was quickly discovered and recognized across town. “Even when I first started writing I was super shy. I remember my first open mic- my head was down and I thought it was really weird people were looking at me… I was quite awkward for awhile,” Amber recalls, laughing at the memory. “And then it just wore off. As long as I don’t think about myself it’s not awkward. If I’m focusing on the song, the music, or the people that came to the show it’s easier.”

Rubarth’s ambivalent background comes as a surprise to anyone who’s seen the sweet, genuine, down-to-earth lovely burst to life in performance. Her quirky, light style, girl-next-door quality and honest, uncontrived lyrics brighten the audience and bring a breath of fresh air to the stage. Since making the move to New York City two and half years ago, Amber has captured the hearts of industry reps, popular venues, and respected musicians all over, with so many doors opening it’s impressive she’s kept it all aligned and balanced. In just her first trip to NYC, Rubarth made a connection on craigslist.org by simply posting that she was in town and available for any acts looking for an opener. “Twenty minutes later I got an e-mail back. Someone had just cancelled an 8:00 slot at the Living Room on a Thursday night, and they asked if I wanted to open for them,” reveals Amber, her voice dripping with excitement over booking a Living Room gig first time out.

Now Rubarth’s resume reads like a chapter in the book “How to Become an Incredible Singer-Songwriter, Record Amazing Albums, Travel the World, and Still Manage to Be the Coolest Chick in NYC.” Utilizing the internet as her prominent source for networking, booking, and promoting, Amber has opened for artists such as Lisa Loeb and Brett Dennen- who simply discovered Rubarth’s music on MySpace and e-mailed her to join him on tour. Another opportunity that came about through a MySpace’s “Friends and Family” music connection, a program that highlights independent and unsigned artists on the popular networking site, is the upcoming Joshua Radin tour. When Radin’s managers were seeking opening acts they approached MySpace music, Amber’s name was recommended, and starting this September she will travel around the country with Radin and Gary Jules, sharing her beloved music with an ever-growing fan base.

In addition, Rubarth is in the process of releasing her newest full-length CD “Good Mystery,” the third album to hit the public since 2005. Recorded in upstate New York at an old church in Syracuse, Amber is extremely excited to bestow her latest work onto eager listeners. “The first [album] was ‘Hey, I have ten songs and I’m gonna put them all together!’” Rubarth smiles, continuing, “The second was really exciting at first and then everything sort of crumbled and collapsed around it. This one feels good because I co-produced it, I had a bunch of songs to choose from, and I knew what kind of sounds I wanted.”

Furthermore, the bright-eyed entrepreneur will be releasing another CD with Paper Raincoat, her band co-fronted with colleague and friend Alex Wong, and taking a brief trip to India to partake in TED Talks, where she’ll experience motivational and informative speeches by renowned innovators and creative minds.

All this will be happening after the “Good Mystery” Record Release party this Friday, August 21, at Joe’s Pub in New York City. Thrilled for the album to debut in the city she now calls home, Amber is looking forward to a long career ahead, much like those of Tom Waits and Josh Ritter, whose careers she respects, admires, and hopes to emulate one day due to their innovative, thoughtful song writing and eternal reinvention of themselves and their music.

From the timid teenager sculpting wood in the depths of Nevada to the proud-yet-humble young woman gracing stages throughout the US and Europe, Amber Rubarth has truly become the Cinderella of the singer-songwriter world. Living her life in the moment and not over thinking every step along the way, Amber exemplifies how dreams can come true; just believe in yourself and the desire to be aggressive in who you are and who you want to be. In an industry where struggle, frustration, and self-doubt is a part of daily existence, it’s refreshing to see an artist who leads with an open mind and an open heart, ready to rule the music community long after the clock strikes twelve.

For more information on Amber please visit www.amberrubarth.com, www.myspace.com/amberrubarth, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amberrubarthmusic.

AND be sure to check out the "Good Mystery" Record Release Party at Joe's Pub in NYC, this Friday, August 21 at 7:00pm! www.joespub.com

Martin Rivas' "Sea of Clouds" Album Release

2009-08-12T09:11:00.007-04:00

With wild blonde hair, dark-rimmed glasses, and a smile that brightens and comforts even the gloomiest New York day, Martin Rivas is the unsurpassed winner of the NYC Artist Scene award for “Slow and Steady Wins the Race.” After years of diligently plugging away at his talent, accepting all performance opportunities and collaborating with a variety of artists, the gifted musician has brought the concept of family into the scene, creating a loving, supportive environment and nurturing opportunities for every artist to grow together. His previous albums, Glorious, Bottleneck, and Pride of the Valley were lovely seedlings, homegrown and ripe for picking, but with his fourth effort he’s finally found his prize-winning garden.

In a time when music can come across as contrived and forced, the serene, genuine quality and exquisite execution of “Sea of Clouds” provides loyal listeners with Martin Rivas’ best album to date. Tracks alternate between simple acoustic guitar riffs, soft piano melodies, and the explosive percussions of long-time friend and drummer Craig Meyer, bringing warmth, telling stories, and breathing life into the songs, while still maintaining the classic rock and reminiscent element that Rivas fans have grown to admire.

Perhaps the strongest feature of the twelve-track album, produced by Dave Pittenger, is the underlying positive consistency found in each of the songs, an attribute that Rivas is known for. Hope, love, happiness, and empathy are all superior messages, dominating the lyrics and intricately woven into the music. From the encouraging words “In the hour that’s the darkest, remember that you’re blessed,” found in “Get Yourself Together,” a tune that brings you back to the sweetness and soul of Smokey Robinson, to the rock n’roll sounds of “A Name Scratched on a Desk” and the infectious, sunny beat behind “Heckuva Day,” which draws subtle influences from pop greats like The Beach Boys, Martin has fully captured the journey he’s taken to date, sharing it graciously, powerfully, and with humility.

There are people in this world who sing for the glory and there are people who sing for love and fulfillment that a single lyric may touch just one person and change them, whether for a split-second or a lifetime. A master of his terrain, a role model to fresh singer-songwriters, and a constant supporter of the community who so obviously adores him, Martin Rivas is the latter, once again blessing us with his gift, softening the hardest of those New York hearts, slowing down the eternal rush of the city, and lifting us to a place in the sky where we can gently rest our weary, worn-out minds and escape into the simplicity of sound.

Please join Martin and crew at The Bitter End this Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 10:00pm for the “Sea of Clouds” album release and visit www.martinrivas.net for purchasing options.

Ree Merrill: "A Broken Barbie"

2009-08-11T10:40:00.006-04:00

Anyone who has ever lived in New York City understands the stressful-yet-comical daily struggle of making your way through this unpredictable town. From living on friends couches to stopping to order food amidst a crisis to sharing an apartment with three other NYC implants, the experiences may differ in details, but are overall strikingly similar, leaving residents both new and seasoned with stories to share for generations to come.

Such is the story of “A Broken Barbie,” a humorous, heartwarming parody based loosely on the experience of moving to New York from the South that marks actress Ree Merrill’s playwriting debut. The play, centered on the storyline of four friends living in a New York City apartment, highlights the dichotomy of their relationship and the importance of accepting people, while giving audiences a taste of what happens in the worst-case scenario of these personalities colliding. Merrill, who lives and works in New York, came up with the concept randomly while reflecting on a simple memory of a childhood toy.

“One day I was thinking about this doll I had when I was younger that my brother destroyed… Why did I remember her? Because of what happened to her- it was very traumatic,” Ree explains of the idea of a “broken Barbie,” laughing lightly. “It’s funny how as people we try to be perfect and look a certain way, but what makes you remember people, take relationships beyond surface level, and care for and love a friend, are the bad things, the things from the past, the things they’ve been through.”

The play, rounded out by a four-person cast consisting of Merrill, Wendell Jordan, Richard Bryson, and Sailor Verdes, will make its debut at The Strawberry One-Act Festival on August 13, 2009 at 9:00pm. Ree submitted “A Broken Barbie” to the festival on a whim, and was thrilled to be one of the 38 plays chosen from hundreds submitted across the country. The Strawberry Festival, founded by Van Dirk Fisher in the hopes of providing a nurturing environment to produce new plays and highlight outstanding artists, is now entering its 16^th season. Described as “the American Idol for playwrights” by the New York Daily News, the festival is a play competition in which the audience and the theatre’s judges cast their votes to select the best play of the season, holding semi-final and final rounds before crowning the winner.

Directed by Emily Swanson, with Stage Director Cristina Fowler, the ensemble piece features costumes by Ashley Guiel and an original song by Wes Hutchinson. The Strawberry One-Act Festival will be held at The Theatre at St. Clements, 423 West 46^th St, NY, NY. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 646-623-3488 or visit www.therianttheatre.com. Seating is limited and reservations are suggested.

Come out and support a local NYC artist, whose touching tale of “A Broken Barbie” is sure to tug at the heartstrings, break down barriers, and revive memories of the uniquely incredible experience of living in the greatest city in the world.

What NOT to Miss, This Week in NYC!

2009-08-10T14:36:00.008-04:00

Big week of shows and events happening here in New York, so mark your calendars!

Tuesday, August 11

@ THE RED LION

DAVE PITTENGER, 8:30pm- www.redlionnyc.com

@ARLENE'S GROCERY

WALKING UPRIGHT, 8:00pm- www.arlenesgrocery.net

Wednesday, August 12

@ LE POISSON ROUGE

RUDDER, 7:00pm- www.lepoissonrouge.com

@ ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL:

JEFF JACOBSON, 9:00 PM

PORTER BLOCK CD RELEASE, 10:00 PM

SHWA LOSBEN BAND, 11:00 PM

www.rockwoodmusichall.com

@PUBLIC ASSEMBLY:

Silver Sound Presents
NYC's 1st Music Video Film Festival + Band Battle
8pm sharp!

Front room - MVFF
Back room - Band Battle
70 N6 St, Williamsburg Brooklyn
First Brooklyn stop on the L train

BAND BATTLE:
The 10 Finalists performing live for a chance to win their very own music video worth over $10,000 are:
Belikos
Dinosaur Feathers
Hank & Cupcakes
Holler Wild Rose!
No Lindsay
Sami Akbari
The Basements
The Courtesy Tier
The Dead River Company
and
The Glorious Veins
(for pics and bios head to http://www.silversound.us/music-video-film-festival-band-battle/band-battle)

All packaged nicely and hosted by senior editor of VH1s bestweekever.tv (and talking head extraordinaire) Dan Hopper.

AND

The MVFF
Thirty eight music videos from 5 different countries have made the cut. They range from Cannes Award-winning to homemade.
For a full list visit: http://www.silversound.us/music-video-film-festival-band-battle/nyc-1st-mvff

AND, the Music Video Film Festival will feature performances in between music video blocks by:
Lowry
H.Wood
Ivan and the Terribles
AND
a special post festival performance by
The Ludlow Lions

www.publicassemblynyc.com

Thursday, August 13

@THE BITTER END

MARTIN RIVAS- Sea of Clouds Record Release!! 10:00pm, www.martinrivas.net

@ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL

MIEKA PAULEY- Week 2 Residency @Rockwood Music Hall, 10:00pm

DON'T MISS THIS FANTASTIC LINE-UP OF ARTISTS THIS WEEK!

Derek James: The Road Less Taken

2009-08-06T13:58:00.010-04:00

Perched casually at an outdoor café on Houston St, a beautiful Australian cattle dog named Bailey draws constant attention. Leash tied loosely around her neck, she meanders about the chairs, stopping occasionally to lap a quick drink from her Frisbee-turned-water-bowl and soak up affection from intrigued passer-bys, wanting to know the breed of this lovely animal.

The proud papa happily responds to the questioning strangers, taking time in between light conversation and delicate laughter to pet Bailey and crack jokes on the eternal awkwardness of human nature. Bailey looks up at her owner, a well-known singer-songwriter with a twinkle in his eye, dry wit on his tongue, and effortless charisma, lays back down on the sidewalk, and continues to take in the New York scenery, as Derek James begins his tale of the fascinating journey that brought him to this infamous LES street corner.

The Syracuse University philosophy major struggled as a teenager, always wanting to sing but being embarrassed of his voice. Derek compensated by using his “Adam Sandler” voice to “joke sing,” until finally opting for a few voice lessons in college. The lessons helped James loosen up, although his confidence waned after an impromptu dorm room performance freshman year. “I played for a group of girls on my floor, and when I started to sing they all started laughing. And I wasn’t doing the [joke] voice,” Derek recalls, his smile widening. “I thought ‘Oh crap, that’s not the response I wanted.’”

It wasn’t until his last year of school living abroad in Australia that James finally attended his first open mic, finding comfort in a place far from the US. After the year in Australia, Derek continued his international travels and moved to the South of France, where he worked simply playing music on the streets, earning up to 125 euros a day performing for a few hours with a four piece band. James took time during this bohemian lifestyle to dig deeper into the music and lyrics he started writing in high school and college, making friends, trying out new tunes, and embracing the non-judgmental culture. The singer-songwriter lasted in France for a year, before moving back to the States in 2004, finally ready to perform and share his music with those who spoke the same language.

The story only begins there. Upon returning to NYC, Derek needed to find a way to survive while building his music career, so he lived for a year and a half with a family as their “manny.” There was no pay involved- James lived and ate for free while serving as a surrogate brother and son to the family. The experience was humbling for Derek as he points out the irony: “I was living as a nanny because I couldn’t make the kind of money living in NYC as I made on the streets of France.” Nights were spent hanging out with the family dog in the basement of the house, editing bar mitzvah videos to make extra cash.

In the meantime, James dove into the New York scene, dropping off demos and booking gigs at CBGB’s, The Continental, and Pianos, to name a few. Eventually this persistence paid off, and it wasn’t before long that Derek found himself opening for Blues Traveler at a huge outdoor music festival in Virginia. Family and friends flew in to see his big debut, but weather conditions prohibited the show from happening. “Wind was blowing, rain was jumping in your nose and flying in every directions, and people were standing with water up to their ankles and umbrellas over their heads just waiting for it to clear up,” Derek describes of the unexpected high point of his career, “Even though we never got a chance to play it was still an awesome experience being around this huge tour bus and successful band.”

Now Derek James is a mainstay in the NYC artists scene, playing Rockwood Music Hall, Bowery Ballroom, and joining forces with other artists for concerts like the “Rocks Off!” boat cruise around Manhattan. Citing the community as being “rich and dense” with talent, Derek credits the music scene with greatly helping his career, passing creative ideas back and forth amongst friendships formed with fellow musicians. While choosing to live in NYC specifically for the community, Derek also enjoys time away, traveling and experiencing the great outdoors. “My need for playing and touring is wider than the Lower East Side,” James explains. This fall, James will embark on another lengthy tour booked through NACA (National Association of Campus Activities), as well as producing a brand-new, full length CD, loaded with the satisfying blend of the acoustic power and soulful swing audiences have grown to love.

Derek’s sound, unique in delivery and addictive in nature, is a powerful compromise of classic acoustics, rogue gypsy street music, and clever, catchy lyrics, providing audiences with a thoroughly entertaining and audibly pleasing performance… still humming along well into the following day. Despite hesitations and uncertainties growing up, James was always drawn to the magic of the stage. “Whenever I saw concerts when I was younger I was always mesmerized by these few people on stage moving this whole mass of people. I always wanted to do that,” Derek states with excitement. “I don’t want to be in the crowd, I want to be moving the crowd.” No surprise to anyone who’s witnessed a Derek James performance, rich with passion, humor, and excitement and exuding the natural love this singer-songwriter has for his art.

Whether a street performer in France, a manny in a suburban New York basement, or a reigning rocker lighting up the stage, Derek James is an act the needs to be seen. One listen to his current CD, “Stray,” leaves you hungry for the next line-up of brilliantly constructed, musically captivating songs that resonate of a time when music was for dancing, swinging, and singing along. James’ energy is memorable; a true boy-next-door embracing life’s simple pleasures and loving a quality laugh, time with family, friends and his dog, and the occasional practical joke. Hooking you instantly and plastering a perma-grin on your face that’s hard to shake off long after the last note has subsided, Derek embodies the spirit that so many New Yorker’s crave during stressful, difficult times… live, laugh, and love.

For more information on Derek please check out www.myspace.com/derekjamesmusic or www.derekjamesmusic.com.

August Rebel Spirit Music Series

2009-08-04T15:02:00.009-04:00

Tomorrow night at Rockwood Music Hall, Rebel Spirit Music hosts their August showcase featuring an incredibly talented line-up and a special guest performer...

The show starts promptly at 8:00pm... artists include:

Abby Payne- http://www.myspace.com/abbypaynesongs

Jerzy Jung- http://www.myspace.com/jerzyjung

Jon Solo- http://www.myspace.com/jonsolomusic

Garrison Star- http://www.myspace.com/garrisonstarr

Special Guest BRETT DENNEN- http://brettdennen.net

The night will be sponsored by the wonderful Musicians on Call and Wanduta.com, two foundations devoted to raising money and awareness for a greater cause. Musicians on Call brings live music to hospital patients, providing happiness, hope, and entertainment to those who have fallen ill. Wanduta.com is a newly formed website geared towards providing independent artists with various benefits such as affordable healthcare and discounts on food, gear, travel, etc.

Come one, come all... Hope to see you there!

For Kasey

2009-08-03T06:23:00.006-04:00

I have a friend whose contagious smile instantly brightens any room she steps into. Her energy and aura is overwhelmingly beautiful, and you would be hard-pressed to catch her in a moment when she wasn't genuinely enthusiastic and passionate about life, music, love, and friendship. This up-and-coming actress is an avid supporter of the arts, attending shows night after night to cheer on her boyfriend and friends, whether it be dancing in front of the stage at The Red Lion or singing along to familiar tunes at Rockwood. My friend is Kasey Williams, and this weekend that gorgeous smile was unfairly taken away from her, as she experienced the tragic loss of her father in a car accident.

On Saturday, August 2, Kasey received a phone call informing her that her family, who had been vacationing in South Carolina, were in a very bad car accident. In the car had been her mother, father, sister, three-year-old nephew, and sister's friend. Her father was listed in critical condition, and passed away overnight. Her sister sustained multiple injuries and required immediate surgery.

To make matters worse, the man that hit them was under the influence and driving a stolen car. The accident was a hit-and-run... the cops found the car and finally the suspect a few hours later, and he's now in custody.

There a no words in a time like this. Nothing can make up for the great loss Kasey and her family are experiencing, and nothing will heal the pain that inevitably comes in the face of such great tragedy. For those of us who love and adore Kasey, it's a struggle to find anything that can express how much she means to us... all we want to do is make it all go away, and restore her happiness and spirit.

The NYC Artist community is doing everything we can to bring small moments of joy and a sense of financial comfort to Kasey and her family. I have included links to the first two efforts, and will continue to update the site with information on how you can help.

The first is an organization set up by Kasey's friends, where you can make donations to help the family while they are stuck in South Carolina, unable to return to their home in Tennessee at the moment. The link is http://www.thewilliamsfamilyfund.blogspot.com. Every little thing counts.

In addition, tonight at the Red Lion, Kasey's boyfriend- Ryan Vaughn- and his cover band The Red Liners, will be playing a last minute show from 10pm-1am. A donation bucket will be passed out during the show, and a video will be shot and sent down to her so she can feel the love and support of the NYC community during this difficult time. Information on the event can be found here- http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111630718843&ref=nf. If you are in town, please come by... The Red Liners is one of Kasey's favorite shows in the city.

If you are interested in making any further donations or would like to help in any way, please contact me via e-mail-clm1126@gmail.com, and I will make sure to point you in the direction needed. Kasey is one of my closest and dearest friends in New York... my heart breaks for her and her family during this time, and I want to make sure in every way possible she is reminded daily of how much she is loved, missed, and supported by her friends up North.

We love you Kase. Stay strong.... I'm shaking two eggs in honor of you tonight. ;) Can't wait to see your smile and hear your laugh again.

NYC Artists around town THIS WEEKEND!

2009-07-30T11:54:00.005-04:00

So many great shows featuring our insanely talented NYC Artists happening this weekend... Take a look!

TONIGHT, THURSDAY 7/30

DAN TORRES- Final Night of Dan's Rockwood Residency, 10pm at Rockwood Music Hall- www.rockwoodmusichall.com. Full Band w/Ryan Vaughn, Patrick Firth, Dan Tirer, and Brian Killeen!

FRIDAY, 7/31

BESS ROGERS- Quest for Glory Tour w/Allison Weiss and Leila Broussard... The Living Room, 9pm. www.livingroomny.com

MARTIN RIVAS- Late night at Rockwood! 1:00am show at Rockwood Music Hall... finish off your night with some great music!!

SATURDAY, 8/1

BRENT SHUTTLEWORTH- Rockwood Music Hall, 10pm, with special guests Ryan Vaughn, Wes Hutchinson, and Dan Torres. Don't miss it!

If you are in town be sure to come hang out!!

~Christina

Bess Rogers: The Songbird

2009-07-28T12:54:00.003-04:00

As her sweetly bold and outwardly brazen melodies glaze over charmed audiences, enthusiastically clapping and moving to the cheerful beat, it’s hard to imagine that Bess Rogers grew up shy and timid, fearful to take the stage and dazzle people with her powerful talent. “I remember doing open mic nights as a 16-year-old and you could barely hear my voice,” Bess confides. “I didn’t think I could be a singer, but I really wanted to be… It turned out I just needed the confidence.”

Clearly that confidence was found, as this now seasoned performer has established a career envious to many NYC Artists, playing live venues throughout the city and touring with fellow artists and friends. Born into a melodic world by a mother who played harpsichord with a Baroque-Renaissance style group, Bess was raised with constant music around the house; learning the flute in fourth grade and eventually moving on to add guitar, piano, and ukulele to her instrument repertoire. Rogers is currently studying the trumpet, keeping her mind, music, and talent fresh with new sounds and influences.

Earning a Master’s Degree in Studio Composition from SUNY Purchase, the Long Island native first hit the New York scene while still in college, playing out once or twice a month, before finally falling into the Lower East Side circle upon moving permanently to the city four years ago. Rogers has come a long way from her first gig at The Lion’s Den (now known as Sullivan Hall), laughing as she recalls the experience as “a bunch of frat guys talking.” Bess adds, “And no one would come.”

Now Bess packs the crowds at LES institutions such as Rockwood Music Hall and The Living Room, finding the intimacy and attentiveness of these venues extremely nurturing for independent artists. “One of the great things [about NYC] is that there’s such a strong and supportive community for independent artists. I’ve met so many people who are doing the same thing and we all help each other in some sense. I’ve found that support system is really important… I couldn’t imagine doing this out in North Dakota on my own,” she confesses with a light laugh. Meeting fellow artists at shows facilitates that environment, particularly as the talent pool expands and fellow singer-songwriters sit in on each other’s sets. “That’s one of the things I love about Rockwood,” admits Rogers. “There’s something about the atmosphere there… I think every city has that one spot where the people are like-minded, open and friendly.”

In addition to circulating the LES, Bess engaged in several tours in the past few years, playing alongside Allie Moss, Ian Axel, and Ingrid Michaelson, including opening for the Dave Matthews Band with Michaelson. Next on the agenda is the upcoming Quest for Glory Tour, which kicks off this Friday, July 31 at The Living Room in NYC. The “theme” tour consists of three very different yet complimentary singer/songwriters- Rogers, Allison Weiss, and Leila Broussard, and will include daily video blogs and spirited stage acts to add a dash of spunk to the savvy musical flair.

The tour follows the release of Rogers’ latest EP “Travel Back” a brilliantly colorful expression of sound that leaves it’s listeners smiling, moving, and compelled to sing along to the irresistible and beautifully executed lyrics. Recorded at friend and colleague Dan Romer’s studio and released in April, the EP is seasoned with the perfect blend of organic, natural sound and creative experimentation, with a variety in tracks from “Yellow Bird” that sweetly lulls to “I Don’t Worry” that speeds up the heartbeat and gets the toes tapping excitedly. “I don't really make music with other people's reactions in mind,” Bess reveals about her songwriting process. “I make the music that's inside of me and that makes me feel, and if it makes other people feel something well that's great but I have no expectations for how it will emotionally affect other people. It's different for everybody.”

The once-reluctant singer has definitely traveled forward from the days of writing theme songs for her group of friends and forcing herself to perform open mics every night of high school to overcome a fear of performing. With a blossoming livelihood and an abundance of opportunities unfolding each day, Bess plans to keep touring and building her career from all angles, particularly the writing and recording aspect. “There’s something about creating in the studio or sitting in my room and writing that’s the most emotionally fulfilling thing that I do,” she confesses. “And I think if I can sustain this life- have a great music career and still continue to make creative, unique, music… that’s what it’s all about.”

A long career is certainly in store for this lovely, engaging songbird, whose melodies enliven and restore faith in the simple, real beauty of music for music’s sake.

To listen to Bess’ music and check out tour dates please visit http://bessrogers.com, http://myspace.com/bessrogers, or become a fan at www.facebook.com.

To check out the Quest For Glory tour please visit http://questforglorytour.com.

Josh Dion: The Man, The Myth, The Legend

2009-07-23T09:19:00.008-04:00

A heart beat. Sometimes pulsing rapidly, nearly taking your breath away with it’s hurried thumping against your chest. Other times its steady. Rhythmic. Softly telling the story of the emotions flooding your mind, overflowing your conscience and into this essential organ. Every now and then it stops for a moment. The stillness robs your natural airflow, lingers for a brief second, and then resumes a steady pace. A Josh Dion drum beat. It mimics the heart beat so perfectly, your body vibrates at the pace of the music, moving, feeling, exalting energy that eagerly attempts to match the spirit and soul Josh Dion brings to the stage.

A lifelong drummer whose upbeat, funky, and earthy music sets him worlds apart from the standard NYC singer-songwriter, Dion’s musical travels have encountered both speed bumps and express lanes, providing learning opportunities and carving invaluable life lessons along the way. From the drum kit received for his first birthday to the first song he wrote at age 24, the once-aspiring jazz drummer performed everything from wedding gigs to blues gigs to children’s music to make his way to the top. Understanding the importance of networking, Dion claims, “You never say no to anything. Before you know it, you have a pretty good living going.”

Good living it's been for Josh, who formed the Josh Dion Band four years ago after a brief touring stint with the band ulu, an opportunity he shared with fellow JD band member and bass player Brian Killeen. It was during these travels that Josh started writing lyrics and keeping a journal of life experiences, a creative outlet that opened many doors in his future. After the tour he spent a short period playing with Chuck Loeb, honing and exploring his vocal capabilities, put together the Josh Dion Band, and engaged in four years worth of performances, time on the road, and invaluable adventures that shaped where he is today. The band parted ways this past January, and since then Josh has been focused on writing and building the next chapter of his career.

An artist who “cut his teeth” at venues like The Bitter End and the Bleecker Street scene, Dion is currently building an expanded fan base and exposing his music to different locations in NY’s Lower East Side. “I’m trying to find what my true personality is,” Josh explains, pausing for a moment to collect his thoughts. “I think we become more complex, especially in this day and age… there’s just so much. I’m coming from so many different types of music it’s really hard to narrow down [my sound]. Everything is a mixture of everything else now… Eventually you get into a groove of what works for your performing style and sound, how you want people to respond to it, and how you want to be perceived.”

The one-time “old soul” is moving forward and living in the now, setting no boundaries and staying focused on what goals lie ahead. Influenced in phases over the course of time, classic rock, blues, Dixie ragtime, old jazz, big band, soul, funk, and gospel are some of the many sounds that musically permeate through his listeners. Often feeling isolated as a drummer who didn’t follow the traditional singer-songwriter path, Dion struggles to find his place in the music scene, opting to march to his own beat more often than not. Finding new homes in places like Sullivan Hall and Rockwood Music Hall helped quench some of the thirst for new. “I really like Rockwood,” Dion exclaims. “I feel like people are going there, there’s something exciting happening. I’m interested in that.” With such an eclectic personal style, a place like Rockwood has exposed Josh to a continuous flow of people open to a variety of sounds, garnering that universal appeal he strives for with his music.

A creature of natural progression, Dion takes a moment to ruminate about his travels to Spain with the Josh Dion Band for the WOMAD Festival, an experience that reminded him of the power and pleasure of life as a musician. Painting a picturesque background of looming Medieval castles and gently rolling hills, Josh describes the moment he understood exactly what his music could accomplish: “We played a show to about 1,000 people… [The show] was explosive... we connected- it was a beautiful thing. The next day I had a ‘drum clinic’ to teach… people found out and thought it was another show but it wasn’t, it was just me and my drum set.” Not wanting to disappoint the confused audience, Dion called bassist Brian Killeen on stage, and the two had a blast putting on an impromptu show at three in the afternoon. “I remember realizing ‘I could do that!’” he recalls, understanding finally, “Don’t show any fear. Don’t allow yourself to go there. Just make music… When you’re giving your all and you feel a huge pull from the audience, you have to give more.”

Audience response is crucial to Josh Dion, who loves nothing more than to see people grooving and dancing as he rocks out onstage. “People take so many different things away from lyrics and songs, it’s whatever you’re feeling really,” Josh offers. “I get it from people and I want to give it to people. I want them to feel that energy.” Approaching songwriting from a drummer’s perspective is slightly different, and sometimes Dion has found the strongest songs actually happen sans instruments- “The best hook comes when there isn’t anything there.”

Falling somewhere in the middle of R&B and singer-songwriter roots rock, Josh tunes into the heart of the song, taking into account strong lyrics and how the audience will react. “A song is like that one emotion that makes you feel a lyric,” Dion reveals thoughtfully. “You get a part of a song and it’ll have a hook to it, that one lyric, and you’ll just know. It will be a life force, and you just have to protect it. Build around it. That’s the essence of the song.”

From the eight-year-old rock drummer with a mullet to the powerful adult presence that commands every stage and drum set with life and energy, Josh Dion is musical force to be reckoned with. This approachable, genuine, and engaging entertainer humbly understands the struggle, the learning curve, and the risk that comes with the musician’s life, and eagerly looks to share the knowledge life has bestowed, living by the priceless lesson a drum teacher once taught him, “What’s mine is yours.”

Pass it on.

Be sure to catch Josh this Friday, July 24, 9:00 pm at Rockwood Music Hall, and on September 5 at the Mercury Lounge!

For more info on Josh Dion, including music and tour dates, please visit www.joshdion.com or find Josh on Facebook- www.facebook.com.

Tonight at the Canal Room!!

2009-07-21T09:30:00.003-04:00

Tonight the Canal Room presents the Artists You Should Know Series, featuring a fantastic line-up of artists....

CALEB HAWLEY- NYC Artist Caleb Hawley dazzles the crowd with his high energy, audibly stimulating performances! A master guitar player, Caleb has impressed audiences throughout the New York City indie scene, from packed house, standing ovations at The Living Room to thoroughly entertaining crowds at Rockwood Music Hall and The Bitter End. Currently working on his next CD, Caleb is sure to captivate you with his subtle humor, powerful vocal cords, and excellent command of music and sound.

TINA MATHIEU- A beautiful songstress whose power and soul intensely seep through her lyrics, Tina brings life to the stage and honesty to the song. With songs like "Little Secret" full of truth and relatability, Tina exudes messages in her music that bring a sense of comfort and empathy to her passion, raw style.

ZACH HURD- Preparing to release his next full length album, Zach has been diligently playing his way around the NYC music scene. Impressing the most popular venues, Zach cultivated a devoted fan following, who are drawn to the incredible array of acoustic funk mixed with a dash of soul pop. After delivering a standout EP in 2008 titled "The Small Places," Zach is excited to finally share his "Changing Landscapes" at The Living Room record release show on August 27.

JOHN SCHMITT- This aggressive singer-songwriter, who placed third in the New York Songwriter's Circle contest for his powerful song "Ophelia," has made on obvious commitment to spread his music around, playing gigs all over New York and beyond. John's love for music is apparent both onstage and off, working for the NYSC hosting their "Loft Series" and consistently supporting other artists and colleagues throughout the community. Passionately expressing his life experiences through moving and entertaining lyrics, his full length, self-entitled CD is now available for your listening pleasure.

CHRIS AYER- Tonight marks the CD Release of Chris Ayer's latest album! After major success placing as a finalist in the New York Songwriter's Circle for his song, "Awake," Ayer has been back in the studio putting together an album that's sure to please his eagerly awaiting fans. Spending an equal amount of time in home-base NYC and touring the country, Chris infuses his acoustic singer-songwriter sound with a folk twist that can both soothe and move the soul while keeping the body stirring to the beat.

To learn more about these artists visit their myspace music pages:

www.myspace.com/calebhawley

www.myspace.com/tinamathieu

www.myspace.com/zhurd

www.myspace.com/johnschmitt

www.myspace.com/chrisayer

Be sure to head to the CANAL ROOM- www.canalroom.com- at 7:30pm TONIGHT to check out this talented group of artists!

Deena Goodman: The Queen of the Scene

2009-07-14T09:24:00.004-04:00

No grass grows under Deena Goodman’s feet, the fiery songstress and powerful promoter of New York City’s independent artist community. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Deena is well-versed in all aspects of the industry, from performing and booking to songwriting, socializing, and selling. Well-known by friends and colleagues as the founder of Rebel Spirit Music, an organization formulated to help network and nurture the artist scene; Goodman has been immersed in the NY music world since moving to the city at age 18, and continues to share her whirlwind force of talent, passion, and philanthropy on every road she travels.

Diving head first into the music business on both ends, Deena spent most of college songwriting, meeting producers, and interning with hard-hitting companies like Warner Brothers Records and the prestigious PR firm Susan Blond, with whom she got a job upon graduation. Choosing to heavily pursue a solo music career, Deena eventually left Blond’s agency, picking up the position of Saturday night party promoter with client The Canal Room, and spent the rest of her time lighting up the stages of Mercury Lounge, Bowery Ballroom, and Joe’s Pub with her mesmerizing, soulful voice. A brilliant networking force, Deena simultaneously started bolstering relationships with fellow artists through BMI, strategically booking shows with musician friends who drew strong followings such as Casey Shea, Atomic Tom, Wes Hutchinson, and Brent Shuttleworth.

Four years into her musical pursuit fate stepped in and handed her an unfortunate card- a cyst was discovered on Goodman’s vocal chords and surgery was required, rendering an uncertain future for her singing career. Not willing to walk away from the life she worked so persistently to build, Goodman took a new approach to the industry. “I was always as good of a businesswoman as I was a singer, maybe even a better businesswoman,” Deena reveals. Using the necessary sabbatical as an opportunity to try something new, Goodman joined forces with Dean McCarthy, a fellow music enthusiast, to create and promote events through their newfound organization, Rebel Spirit Music. The goal was simple: to discover great music, perform it for big audiences, and in turn get the individual artists to start playing with one another, promoting a “troubadour, 1970s hippie-vibe” that translated beautifully into the current scene. Deena enlisted the great and powerful Rockwood Music Hall as the main venue for these events, which hosts Rebel Spirit once a month since its inception in December 2007. “The fact that it’s at Rockwood really helps because it’s the center of music for most of the community in the Lower East Side,” Goodman explains, crediting Rockwood’s senior booker Tommy Merrill with intelligently constructing which acts perform each evening. “[Rebel Spirit and Rockwood] work hand-in-hand very well together.”

Rebel Spirit Music Series has since expanded to include venues like the Canal Room, where Deena also works as a booker, and Tavern on the Green during the summer season. Drawing industry representatives, artists, and music lovers from all over the city, the concept has been warmly received and is eternally evolving. Goodman had the first ten months booked in her head from the start, pulling from friends and contacts she made during her involvement with the New York Songwriter’s Circle, and pairing those with new, undiscovered gems McCarthy found hidden throughout the city and Brooklyn. “People really like the community vibe,” she notes, observing that most advertising for the series comes from positive word-of-mouth.

In working first with the Songwriter’s Circle, Goodman was able to establish friendships with groups of musicians, getting to know the different cliques who played together both professionally and socially. Becoming increasingly aware of the importance of introducing people, Deena proceeded to blend the lines of the groups that had formed. “Cliques are not a bad thing. They are what help artists cultivate, grow and support themselves,” she states confidently and smiles, “I just think they should all know each other.”

Goodman excitedly shares what Rebel Spirit has brought to the scene: “People treat each other as artists, put each other in their bands, feature their friends in sets, utilize each other’s talents to make their shows better, and bring these different personalities to the light of their audiences.” So many of these artists would not have found each other if not for sharing the common stage, further proving the incredible power music has of bringing people together.

The organization’s home base can be found at www.rebelspiritmusic.com, a website developed “by artists, for artists,” that grabs writers, photographers, PR people, and other resources and displays them at one table for everyone to feast on. Deena wisely rationalizes, “It’s better to pursue something as a group than one-on-one,” which has been a major factor in the success of this useful coalition of artistry. One of Goodman’s goals is to develop the website even further- expanding the database, promoting additional series, and tie in more industry representatives. “It’s all about building a name for this grass roots community of artists doing everything for themselves,” Deena affirms, showcasing a passion for this project that’s parallel to the sparks that fly when she takes the stage.

An exemplary model of the duality between business and the arts, Goodman is inspired by good lyrics, perfectly executed live music events, happy audiences, music lovers, people who believe in sharing the wealth, and most of all, people. The strong, confident, and dynamic enthusiasm she emits is simply captivating, and her well-constructed words and devotion to the indie music journey will hook anyone eager to hear, know, and discover more.

To learn about Deena as a singer-songwriter please visit www.myspace.com/deenagoodman. To be further educated in opportunities with Rebel Spirit Music check out www.rebelspiritmusic.com.

Casey Shea: The Time Machine

2009-07-09T09:19:00.007-04:00

Close your eyes for a moment and picture this:

You’re sitting on a soft patch of grass nestled within the intricately wrapped streets of New York City’s Greenwich Village. The year is 1968, and splattered around you on this warm, breezy summer day are artists of every shape and style. Guitars hang loosely in the laps of the emerging singer-songwriters, fingers strumming softly, voices singing boldly as the sun blazes high above. It’s a simpler time. Love and peace are not jewelry adorned because they’re “trendy,” but symbols of eternal hope and spirit. Beliefs about what the world should be drip organically through honest, stripped music and your soul feels pure joy in listening to these singer-songwriters convey their stories, sometimes subtly, sometimes loudly and brazenly. Your mind is at ease, your heart is full, and your body softly sways to the light, jubilant music of the folk-rock scene.

Now open your eyes and listen to a Casey Shea song… Tell me how you feel.

Casey Shea is the ultimate time machine, using classic sounds from the guitar and drums to make music in its simplest form. Heavily influenced by The Beatles since first seeing Paul McCartney perform at JazzFest at age 12, Casey has developed a uniquely vintage composition of songs that depict a love and appreciation for classic rock. From the soothing, airy “Roll Your Windows Down,” recently featured on “One Tree Hill” to the quirky, animated “Lartigue” that effortlessly gets the crowd moving and shaking, Shea brings an aura to the stage that produces beaming smiles during these troubled times.

A contagious grin spreads on this singer-songwriter’s face, as he reflects on the path that brought him here. Always a singer, it was not until college at Florida State University that he recognized the need to nurture a career in music and songwriting. Abandoning a place on the university golf team and forming a band with another teammate, Casey plowed down the melodious road and never looked back. A hopeless romantic who credits wife Langhorne as the secret to his success, the natural jokester also finds unadulterated pleasure in making crazy, humorous videos- the complete quintessential package of a well-balanced artist: love, laughter, and immeasurable talent.

Since arriving in NYC five years ago, band names like Casey Shea and the Amorous Monks, Casey Shea and The Cows Come Home, and Casey Shea and The Worst Band Name Ever, have become synonymous with Shea’s unconventional approach to music and life in general. In discussing the multiple name alterations, Shea slyly claims, “I can deal with it for one show no matter how good or bad it is. I never have to commit to anything.” The band now consists of a solitary name- Casey Shea- and set members, all fellow musicians and singer-songwriters, include: Jeff Jacobson (guitar), Gilbert Gilmore (guitar), Wes Hutchinson (bass), Jamie Alegre (drums), and Michael Leonhart (keyboard, horns, the “X” factor).

In January 2009, Shea combined forces with Wesley Verhoeve of Family Records to introduce the public to a catalog of solo works. Not wanting to have one big record release show and then be done with it, Casey and Wes questioned, “How can we put out this music in a unique way?” The answer: The “ABC’s” Singles Release shows, a multitude of performances booked at different venues over the course of the year, each featuring two professional recordings and one informal demo made at home- the A side, B side, and C side. The concept, another throwback to the past, quickly garnered a fantastically devoted audience following.

The key to Casey’s success with the “ABC’s” is his truly humble manner in promoting and sharing his work. Shea offers all the music on his website- www.caseysheamusic.com- as free downloads, allowing fans to obtain the latest releases prior to the show. The site, creatively designed and executed by Jeff Schram, is user friendly and enjoyably interactive, showcasing Shea’s clever mind and innovative personality with colors, backgrounds, and even a font that resonates the same perennial theme. Casey’s blog is also part of the website, full of entries that help build reader interest and offer a true sense of the singer’s dynamic individuality. “My theory is if you put yourself out there people will respond,” he explains.

Discussing the method behind his madness, Casey laid out his approach to sharing music in the era of digital music: “In today’s world everything is easily accessible. People who don’t have the money or don’t believe they have to pay for [music] will find it somehow. So why not at least have it on my site for free? If you want it, please come get it. The more people have it on their mp3 players or hard drives the better.”

Musing over a time when people still had record players, this old-fashioned soul sometimes wonders where music is headed in the future. Shea’s main desire is to make a product that touches people, garnering a consistent aura of community, and let that take the lead. “At this point I just want to get it out to as many people as possible, encourage people to take it, steal it, and spread it around,” Casey admits candidly.

After being discouraged by the “every-man-for-himself” attitude of the Nashville music scene where he had previously pursued his career, Casey found the naturally helpful demeanor and sense of kinship in New York City surprisingly refreshing. “It makes a world of difference when somebody’s just nice to you,” Shea confidently states. Always promoting and spreading positive energy to friends and colleagues, Casey has developed a beautiful reputation of being one of the most generous artists in the business. Participating recently in Martin and Craig’s “Backscratch Sessions,” he observes how much talent there is in the small world we live in, and its ability to bring people together to grow in unity.

With the abundance of great music happening in a compact space, Shea speaks openly of each venues strengths: “At Rockwood Music Hall you can pretty much see a great act from 6pm-2am any night of the week. The Living Room- same deal. And Pianos has great margaritas!” he exclaims with a devilish smile, knowing his reputation for promoting the establishment’s infamously strong, tequila-laden drinks.

Casey Shea is unquestionably a staple in this NYC Artists Scene, embodying the spirit of classic music, blurring the lines between past and present, and creating an exquisitely harmonious device to transport audiences to the world as it should be.

For more information about Casey Shea please check out the following sites:

www.caseysheamusic.com

www.caseysheamusic.com/blog

www.myspace.com/caseyshea

The 6^th ABC’s Singles Release will be held this Saturday, July 11, 8:00pm at the Gramercy Theatre. Casey will be joined by fellow Family Records artists Matt Singer, Pearl and the Beard, and Wakey! Wakey! for a fantastic night of music. Come check it out!

Today's NYC Artists News!

2009-07-08T08:44:00.007-04:00

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Lots of great things happening in the NYC indie music world this week!

Check it out....

THURSDAY, JULY 9- Dan Torres Residency begins at Rockwood! Here's the details from Dan...

I'm proud to announce that I'll be doing 4 weeks straight at my favorite NYC venue, Rockwood Music Hall. The month long event will include 4 totally different performances filled with special guests and never before seen arrangements of my music. Each week will include things I've never tried before, so come check out as many shows as you can!!

July 9th, 10pm: Solo/Special Guests: w/ Casey Shea, Martin Rivas, & Bess Rogers
This show will feature some of my favorite New York artists. I'll be doing a duet of one of my songs with each special guest in their unique style. Check them out on MySpace!

July 16th, 10pm: Acoustic Trio: w/ Emily Hope Price (Cello) & Ryan Vaughn(Percussion)
Finally! The return of acoustic tunes with me and my cellist! This time we're going to be doing even more songs with Emily singing and adding on Mr. Ryan Vaughn!

July 23rd, 10pm: String Ensemble (w/ Emily Price, Will Martina, Shuo Zhang, Curtis Stewart and Paula Cho!)
All string arrangements by Dan Torres with one special secret cover song arranged by Tarrah Reynolds

July 30th, 10pm: Full Band
Featuring:Ryan Vaughn(Drums), Brian Killeen (Bass), Dan Tirer (Guitar) & Patrick Firth (Piano/Organ)
Finally, my full band show! We'll definitely be playing some brand new songs!!

Rockwood Music Hall
196 Allen Street, NYC 10002
www.rockwoodmusic.hall.com

FRIDAY, JULY 10- Pete & J, Bess Rogers, and Allie Moss at The Saint in Asbury Park, NJ. Doors open at 8pm, Tickets $10 advance/$12 door.

SATURDAY, JULY 11- CASEY SHEA SINGLES RELEASE AT GRAMERCY THEATRE!

Village Voice & WRXP Present The Know Music Series Featuring Family Records
Saturday, July 11th - 8PM
$12

The Family comes together for our first time at The Gramercy Theatre - Saturday, July 11th at 8PM.

Casey Shea's final single release, and performances by Wakey!Wakey!, Matt Singer, and Pearl and the Beard.

We do hope you can make it!

http://myspace.com/wakeywakeymusic
http://caseysheamusic.com
http://pearlandthebeard.com
http://matt-singer.com

Gramercy Theatre

127 East 23rd St

New York, NY

***********************************************************

FINALLY, FOR ALL YOU INDEPENDENT MUSICIANS OUT THERE, CHECK THIS SITE OUT!

http://www.wanduta.com/musicians.php?menu=organization

AN ORGANIZATION CREATED FOR
INDEPENDENT MUSICIANS...

Wanduta is the first-of-its-kind members-only organization for you, the working independent musician. Our goal is to help you keep doing what you do for as long as you want to do it. As a Wanduta Member, the things you need will cost less and you will have access to affordable healthcare and additional music industry resources.

Sami Akbari: Great Things Come in Small Packages

2009-07-07T11:03:00.009-04:00

The overwhelming presence and massive power behind Sami Akbari’s voice makes it hard to believe the vocally gifted entertainer stands at a mere five feet tall. With lyrics that reach untapped sectors of your soul, a quality of sound that both soothes and inspires, and a natural comedic flare, it’s impossible not to adore this fiery up-and-coming singer-songwriter.

Exploring the arts from a young age, Sami Akbari dabbled with piano, violin, and guitar beginning at five years old, and has been singing for as long as her memory serves. With Bob Denver, Ritchie Havens, Bob Marley, and Neil Diamond playing on the stereo in Akbari’s childhood home, a father who wrote poetry, a mother who played guitar, and a realization at age six that she could belt out Annie’s “Tomorrow,” Sami’s destiny laid on solid ground early on, simply waiting for the right moment to bring it to life.

Despite a passion for music and singing, along with an “unhealthy” obsession with The Beatles laced throughout her adolescence, it was not until freshman year of college that Akbari made the commitment to nurture her brimming talent. While on the committee “Mainstage” at Roanoke College, Sami held the responsibility of handling hospitality and taking care of the musical acts performing at the school- and the first act happened to be John Mayer. “It was the first time I was behind the scenes at a concert and able to see how the whole day was put together,” Akbari reveals. “Seeing the show and how people were reacting to him made me see it through new eyes.” Feeling relatively depressed after the event concluded, Sami longed to relive the experience and excitement, and immediately started back into guitar lessons and songwriting.

After college Sami picked up and moved to New York City, ready to pursue the dream and uncovering obstacles each step of the way. Finding tremendous support within the community, Akbari notes the lack of jealousy and the abundance of happiness artists exhibit for one another. “You come to New York with this image that there are so many people and musicians and it’s going to be so hard, and it is. But it’s actually a small community and it’s amazing how many people you end up knowing,” she observes with a smile. “It’s weird, it makes the rest of the music world smaller too because all of a sudden you’re connected to these people in different ways that would not have existed outside of New York.”

Akbari credits the Brooklyn-based group Local Correspondents, an organization that promotes independent artists, with helping to overcome a lack of confidence and getting her feet wet in the scene. Upon arriving in the city a little over a year ago, Sami spent most Tuesday evenings at Bar 4 in Williamsburg, where she met fellow artists Jessi Robertson and Brian Speaker, two people instrumental in helping her land her first gig at Piano’s top floor. The connection with Local Correspondents has kept the ball rolling as the venue list continually grows, now including Akbari’s favorite place to play, The Living Room, a place she adores for it’s loyal and attentive audiences and diversity of acts.

Commanding attention on any stage is effortless for Sami Akbari, who professes her favorite part of performing is simply audience interaction. “I love entertaining people!” she sparkles with enthusiasm. A harmonious voice dripping with longing, love, and heartache is often balanced with quirky banter, an engaging laugh, and honest commentary, keeping her listener’s emotions well rounded.

Inspired most often by music, different instruments, such as the micro-chord, will stimulate Akbari’s creative senses. The singer-songwriter often struggles with the “songwriting” end of the spectrum, finding it easier to compose music first, and then see where it flows lyrically. “It’s really hard for me,” Sami reveals, echoing a feeling familiar to many artists in this scene. “I know a lot of people who can sit down and write four amazing songs and I hate them. Sometimes it takes me a year to write a really good song.”

Regardless of the development process, Akbari continues to produce music that’s beautifully honest, absolutely relatable, and perfectly enchanting, as heard on her 2007 debut “Somebody Else’s Stranger,” a four-track EP that resonates with young love, self-discovery, and finding strength through pain. Propelling forward with recording new tracks and dominating live performances, Sami is making her way through the scene, bright-eyed and quick-tongued, proving once and for all amazing things come in small packages.

For more information on Sami Akbari visit www.myspace.com/samiakbari or find Sami on Facebook www.facebook.com.

Happening this JULY at NYC Artists Scene

2009-07-02T11:58:00.003-04:00

June was an incredible month for music and the arts in New York City, with live venues packed every night introducing the hottest acts emerging out of the scene! Keep checking the site daily for weekly show listings and new articles on the most talented people in town...

Exclusive interviews this July include: Casey Shea, Sami Akbari, Josh Dion, Deena Goodman, Bess Rogers, Derek James, and more!

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend everyone!

Check out the NYC Artists performing this week!

2009-06-29T08:51:00.004-04:00

Music Happenings This Week!!

TODAY, Monday, June 29:

NICK HOWARD is opening for Boyce Avenue at BOWERY BALLROOM, 8:00pm. Check out this fantastic artist in a great venue!

MARTIN RIVAS' debuts the 2nd Backscratch Sessions at The Red Lion, 10:00pm. This round features NYC Artists- RYAN VAUGHN, CASEY SHEA, BRENT SHUTTLEWORTH, and of course, Mr. MARTIN RIVAS. Be there!

TUESDAY, June 30:

RACHEL PLATTEN AND THE SISTA GIRLS (Ryan Vaughn, Martin Rivas, Brian Killeen, Craig Meyer, and Eddie Venegas ) play the CANAL ROOM at 8:00pm. www.canalroom.com

THURSDAY, July 2:

MARTIN RIVAS et. al performs at Rockwood Music Hall, 10:00pm. www.rockwoodmusichall.com.

Please come out and support your independent artists... They are truly amazing!

Nick Howard: Moving On Up

2009-06-26T08:54:00.011-04:00

A love of New York City and American culture, a passionate drive to pursue music, and a poorly recorded demo was all British singer-songwriter Nick Howard had when he firmly planted his feet on New York concrete five years ago. “I remember taking [the demo] to the Living Room and giving it to the guy behind the bar who said ‘Yeah absolutely,’ and as I walked out and turned away I saw him throw it in the bin,” Nick recalls, subtly noting the irony. The gifted crooner, whose boyish charm and clever humor captures audiences nation-wide, has come a long way in a short time, building a growing empire of success on a foundation of persistence, belief, and hard work.

Raised in Brighton, England singing in school choirs and church, Nick Howard decided to pick up the guitar after seeing Michael J. Fox in the movie “Back To The Future.” Only two formal lessons were needed to fire his musical spirit- the rest was self-taught, continuing to play throughout his teenage years. A trip to New York City in 2000 to visit his sister solidified where Howard belonged, claiming, “I’d never experienced anything like it.” Establishing a musical presence in NYC during a college internship, the computer science major got a “real” job post-graduation and has been writing and playing in the States ever since.

In 2005 Nick recorded the six-track EP “Contradicted,” an album he describes as “raw, confused, and focused on finding oneself in the big city.” The EP received instant recognition, with Clear Channel featuring it on the “Discover New Music Campaign” and a few songs getting television placement. Howard continued to promote the EP for a year and half while writing and working on the follow up, 2008’s “Something To Talk About,” produced by Jamie Siegel. From that album the song “The Pressure” was picked up before it was even mastered through a licensing agreement, and placed on the hit show “The Hills.” “It was the most painstaking ten minutes of my life, and then it came in and it was so cool,” Nick describes the experience the first time hearing the song on national TV, laughing, “It was the beginning of the end of Nick Howard.”

Now preparing to release “Bridging the Gap,” the new EP produced by Robert “Void” Caprio and recorded at Stratosphere Studios, Nick plotted a live, acoustic album done in “old school” band fashion. Howard called in band members Ryan Vaughn, Oscar Bautista and Nicholas D'Amato (with guest appearances by Rachel Platten), plugging away for twelve straight hours one weekend, tracking and mixing the whole project. The EP release coincides with Nick’s debut performance at the world-renowned Summerfest in Milwaukee this July, a career highlight Howard has been diligently pursuing. “The hope was they would put me on one of the smaller stages, and this year they put me opening for Gavin DeGraw,” Nick’s smile widens, “So I didn’t mind waiting three years for that gig!”

No stranger to the New York stage, Nick has seen an uprising of both venues and artists since playing his first gig at The “C” Note, a club now closed. Regularly serenading The Bitter End, CBGB’s, The Living Room, and Rockwood Music Hall, Howard worked the hierarchical climb, most recently playing Highline Ballroom and booking an upcoming show at Bowery Ballroom. “I think when I first moved here the scene was in a bit of a lull. Some of the older venues were really struggling and some of the new ones hadn’t come around yet. Now there’s a great balance of the staples like Mercury Lounge, and Rockwood, which I think is going to go down as a historic music venue,” Nick confides. With a never-ending list of incredible music happening every single night, it’s no wondering every NYC artist claims Rockwood is their favorite spot to play.

Calling New York City a “music mecca,” Nick offers an honest take on the unparalleled success and drawbacks of the scene. “The venues are great. The band and artists are amazing, every element of every type of music is awesome,” Howard professes. “The thing that’s difficult here is most people who come to shows are not the kind of fans you would get fifty miles out of the city. There’s a motive behind things- you find yourself playing for a lot of other artists/ bands, record executives, and industry people, which isn’t really a good representation of the average music fan.”

Often shows become auditions; the booker, the audience, even the player(s) are all under inspection, and sometimes the performance suffers on account of the artist’s consumption with everything that goes into it- finding musicians, paying musicians, running around, getting off work for sound checks, etc. “You get onstage and realize ‘Wow, we’re really under-rehearsed. Or you get onstage and forget your lyrics, “ laughs Nick, who currently works a full-time job on top of actively pursuing his music career.

Regardless, this highly motivated, performance savvy musician maintains a beautiful harmony of fortifying his career and enjoying the simple things in life like family, friendship, sports, and nonsense trivia. “I’m a complete and utter nerd. But I’m a cool nerd because I love sports,” Nick divulges with a grin, listing the Yankees, Giants, and Knicks as his favorite American teams. A truly honest, sincere, and humble artist, Nick also participated in Martin Rivas and Craig Meyer’s “Backscratch Sessions” debut, an experience he called “nerve-wracking and grounding,” but overall incredibly positive and motivational for the music community.

Humility will take the young and extremely gifted Nick Howard far, as he plunges forward into the next stage of an inspirational journey. With soft, heartfelt lyrics telling the universal coming-of-age tale, melodic, catchy sounds, and a gift for recognizing and writing a good “song,” Nick is a charming, praiseworthy example of just living the “American” dream.

For more tour dates and music please visit www.nickhowardmusic.com, www.myspace.com/nickhoward, or find Nick at www.facebook.com.

Get tickets NOW for Nick’s show at the Bowery Ballroom, Monday, June 29 at 8:00pm! http://www.facebook.com/nickhowardmusic#/event.php?eid=96728565893

Rachel Platten: Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

2009-06-22T09:40:00.011-04:00

Light positively emanates out of Rachel Platten, dazzling those fortunate enough to share a moment with this powerful force of kindness, talent, and true beauty. Blessed with the understanding of the Universe's give-and-take policy, the stunning songstress balances a thriving music career with personal charity, nurturing a life path filled with nothing but love.

Growing up in Boston, Rachel's musical journey began with piano lessons, choirs, and school plays, tinkering with writing songs in high school but ultimately choosing a career in politics. Everything changed one semester abroad in Trinidad, when Platten took stage singing back-up for a Soca band at a massive music festival. Performing her first gig in front of thousands of people, the then 19-year-old knew at that moment she found her calling. "It felt like lightening struck me," says Rachel, her smile widening. "This is EXACTLY what I'm supposed to be doing and it was amazing, just the most incredible thing."

"Music infuses everything in the culture there, which is a big change from where I grew up and everything was academically dominated," Rachel explains. Submersed in Trinidad’s artistically focused lifestyle, Platten quit her internship with the diplomat’s office, toured with the Soca band, and concentrated on writing, practicing, and playing for almost a year.

The Trinidad experience carved the path for the inevitable move to New York City, a transition that encountered a few bumps in the road, in traditional artist fashion. A self-proclaimed expert at being fired, only within this past year has Rachel made music a full-time career. "Even though I moved here with the intent to pursue music I got a little sidetracked and just tried to support myself. I've had seven different jobs and I've been fired from seven different jobs. I am amazing at getting fired," Platten affirms, bursting into laughter. "I was always trying to get gigs, searching for band members, practicing, and I would just not be in [the job] at all. I am the worst employee ever."

Finding the ultimate composite of musicians to get the ball rolling and form her band took some trial-and-error, but eventually Rachel Platten and the Sista Girls- Martin Rivas, Craig Meyer, Brian Killeen, Ryan Vaughn and Eddie Venegas- was assembled, now dominating stages throughout NYC. "I just feel like I have the most incredible [group]- not only in their playing but they are just the kindest people... it's all love," Platten sighs.

It's taken some time for Rachel to hone what she's doing with sound, a self-described modern-day Jackson 5 vibe that's uplifting, upbeat, fun, and happy. Channeling influences like The Beatles and Motown, Platten exudes energy, light, and soul in every performance. Due to its multifarious appeal, her music fashions a scene of it's own; one that charms the intimate acoustic environment of Rockwood Music Hall and captures eclectic audiences at larger venues like the Highline Ballroom. Independently selling over 5,000 copies of her first record made four years ago, Rachel is currently focused on the follow up album, as well as giving back to the community who have so graciously shown support.

About three years ago, Platten linked up with Musicians on Call, a charity that bring musicians into hospitals for live, private performances with patients. The experience has been one of the personal highlights of her career, keeping the ”give to get back” mantra flowing consistently. "When you start trying to be a musician in New York it's very hard and very scary. You don't know what you're doing, you have no guide for it- it's very self-absorbed. It's a lot of ego, you're constantly trying to promote yourself," she admits humbly. "I needed something to do with what I loved that wasn't for me."

Searching online for local charities, Rachel came across www.musiciansoncall.com, reached out immediately, and once again felt, "This is exactly what I'm supposed to be doing.” Now participating on a regular basis, "I'll schedule it after something good happens for me career-wise," Platten claims, pointing to the sky with a laugh, "I got you back!"

“The whole point is you’re uplifting people one-by-one; just trying to make someone feel better and take a little bit of stress off them for the moment,” the singer says of the experience. “Moments when you know you’ve touched someone deeply… that’s powerful.”

Rachel’s generous heart also beats for the NYC artist community, finding it important to encourage and pass along lessons learned to fellow colleagues. Wanting to give back to the scene that has bestowed good fortune on her career, Platten understands the struggle, hardships, and frustrations that artists encounter and is willing to help in any way possible.

“When you get to know yourself and what it is you have to give, that it’s unique and special, it’s really easy to support others, see their shows, and be excited for their success,” Rachel reveals. “I found that people have been incredibly generous, kind, and open and it makes me want to give that too. I have some really exciting stuff going on and I’m of the mindset ‘Cool! Let me pass this on and pay it forward. Let me give this back because it helped [me] more than anything.”

Currently in the studio Rachel is turning to newer influences like The Pixies, Elliot Smith and Nick Drake, paired with the creative energy of Bob Dylan (who once lived in Platten’s building) to produce an album that reaches audiences spiritually and emotionally. “I don’t let myself get away with anything,” Platten states confidently, “I’m very hard on myself until the lyrics are all real.”

Songs saturated with happiness and hope and a voice that resonates deep into your core ensure this singer-songwriter is destined for an explosive career. In the current state of our country and the difficult times people are enduring, Rachel’s music provides the ultimate remedy to cure the darkest moments: an infectious smile, a giving heart, a radiant soul, and a whole lot of love.

For more information on Rachel Platten’s music and tour dates please visit www.rachelplatten.com, www.myspace.com/rachelplattenband, or become a fan of Rachel Platten at www.facebook.com.

Rachel’s next live performance will be Tuesday, June 30 at the Canal Room at 8:00pm. Be sure to check it out if you are in town! www.canalroom.com

Declan Bennett: Living the Dream

2009-06-18T23:12:00.022-04:00

One of the many beautiful things about New York City is at any given moment you may cross paths with the most intriguing, delightful person. Such was the case recently at Rockwood Music Hall, where I had the pleasure of being introduced to Declan Bennett, a British singer-songwriter whose envious resume covers all facets of the music industry. A warm reception and honest enthusiasm for conversation simply adds to the enormous talent that resides humbly in this distinctly exceptional artist.

At age 16 Declan Bennett left school and moved to London to pursue music, a dream that took a wild turn two years later when Warner Music signed him to the pop/rock group "Point Break." The band released five Top 20 Singles, produced an album, toured the world for two years, and appeared on the hit British TV show "Top of the Pops," a regular Friday night program that showcased a countdown of the Top 50 songs of the week. Wrapped in this whirlwind life, Declan found solace writing his own music while on the road, exploring songs more personal and conversational, so when the time came for a second album he declined. "I just thought, 'I'm done, I've got nothing left in me,'" Declan said, a look of truth dashing through his eyes. "I had my time and I enjoyed it but I have to go and do my own thing."

Transitioning from a pop star with screaming fans to working in a dingy cafe was humbling for Bennett, but did not stop this focused young musician. Continuing to write and play out London's acoustic scene, Declan built a fan base from scratch and has kept it growing since age 20. Fortune fell once again soon after, getting discovered by Boy George and cast in the London hit "Taboo" at the historic West End Theatre. Establishing a positive relationship with the icon proved beneficial, as Declan became the opening act on several gigs and was often promoted by George himself on TV appearances.

Bennett's stand-out performance in "Taboo" caught the eye of a casting director from RENT in New York, finally bringing this gorgeous talent to our city streets. Joining the cast of RENT as Roger, the struggling singer-songwriter, Declan went on tour with the show first before starring on Broadway from September 2007-May 2008.

Undeterred by an exploding career and well-deserved recognition, Bennett chose not to abandon his singer-songwriter roots. "I never stopped doing my music," Declan explains, "Despite diverting at times into theatre it was always really important to me to not just do [theatre] and forget my music. It was a vehicle for me to expose myself to a new audience."

That attitude is precisely why Declan has transitioned so well into the New York scene, a city he finds both stimulating and accepting in ways London can't compare. Shifting from RENT to the singer-songwriter scene was a challenge in overcoming the music industry's pre-conceived notion of Broadway stars and solo albums, but Bennett succeeded and did so with integrity. Crediting the cast of RENT as a strong support system, it was these friends who filled Googie's Lounge at Declan's first NY acoustic show to cheer him on. "You guys are so vocal here," he laughs, revealing why New York is his favorite city to play. "If you enjoy something you just let a big whoomp out!"

Now preparing to head out west for a role in Green Day's brand new punk-rock opera, based on the "American Idiot" album, Declan is kissing the city goodbye for a few months to take on rehearsals and performances. Previews start September 4 for the innovative debut, which Bennett describes as a "crazy, abstract, physical opera."

Fear not however, the smooth, sensual songwriter will be back on NY turf in no time, bursting out new tunes and exploring unique and cutting-edge sounds. In previous songwriting, Bennett always produced the lyrics first, tending to the instruments after to pull out a melody. More recently, Declan found himself artistically gravitating towards the instrumental side of the process, searching for new sources of inspiration.

Growing up it was strong powerful females who drew emotion out of Declan; songwriters like Ani DiFranco, Alanis Morrissette, Jewel and the Indigo Girls. "I should have been a lesbian!" laughter erupted, then turned serious. "It was their lyrics, their honesty that blew me away more than anything." Lately Bennett finds himself listening to an incredibly eclectic range of music that encompasses everything from house music to electric-rock.

The worldly musician reveals, "Music to me is a very emotional experience. It doesn't matter if it's some crazy track in the middle of the club at 4 AM and this insane baseline kicks in, or if I'm sitting in a tiny little acoustic cafe and there's a girl on a guitar and I'm falling in love with her lyrics."

Planning to return to the New York scene at the end of the Green Day run, Declan has grown to feel at home in the condensed community. The summer following RENT Bennett truly immersed himself in the singer-songwriter circles, playing more gigs and meeting fellow artists like Brent Shuttleworth, exposing him to additional networking opportunities. By making music the main focus, Declan finally felt able to penetrate the scene and meet others with similar talents and goals.

While it may only be a few years since Declan Bennett first arrived on US soil, the extraordinary depth and diversity in his music, a piercingly beautiful voice and a giving heart will ensure his place in the New York scene for decades to come. If you have not had the pleasure of experiencing a Declan Bennett performance make sure you seek it out. It's one of the finest gifts England has ever given America.

Declan Bennett will be performing this Sunday, June 21 as part of the Time Out Make Music New York Festival:

OUTSIDE 'JOE THE ART OF COFFEE'

1PM - 405 W 23RD ST (BETWEEN 9TH AND 10TH)
2PM - 9 E 13TH ST (just below union square)
3PM - 141 Waverly Place

4PM - 6PM Extended set at ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL! With Stephanie Nilles and Brent Shuttleworth

For more information on Declan visit www.declanbennett.co.uk, www.myspace.com/declanbennett, or become a fan at www.facebook.com.

To read about the new Green Day rock opera Declan is starring in, check out this link to Rolling Stone.

Martin Rivas: For the Love of Music

2009-06-12T09:58:00.002-04:00

Sitting in a quaint coffee shop in Greenwich Village, my ears were treated to the delightful new Martin Rivas track "Heckuva Day," a bright infusion of music bursting with sunshine, and a windows down, beach-bound sensation. The latest mastery off Rivas' not-yet-released album, "Sea of Clouds," gives listeners the ultimate taste of what happens when a soulful voice, genuine heart, ambitious mind, and natural talent spontaneously combust into a single person.

A native New Yorker, Martin Rivas comes from a diversely musical family; with a mother and grandfather who both sang, and cousins that range from classical composers to up-and-coming musicians. "There's always been instruments in our house, there's always been singing, and there's always been music," Martin divulges. At the age of 11, his uncle showed him a few chords on a guitar but the rest has been self-taught, mimicking favorite records by artists like The Police to learn style and composition. After playing gigs at CBGB's, The Bitter End, and Kenny's Castaways with his band "Serious Pilgrim" in the early nineties, the group parted ways and Martin took time off from the music business, only resuming recording, writing, and self-producing CDs "Bottleneck" and "Glorious" within the past eight years.

In 2005, Martin met drummer Craig Meyer, and the duo created a force called "Campfire" that has spread throughout the New York music scene. Playing approximately 1,000 shows over the past four years, "Campfire" began as a favor to the owner of the Red Lion. "Craig and I were playing with Jessie Gage, and sometimes on Sundays we would go to Washington Square Park and play under the arch, and then head to the Red Lion afterwards," Martin explains. One Sunday, the owner asked Martin and Craig to fill a three-hour time slot because someone had cancelled. The duo gladly accepted, entertaining the audience with a variety of rhythm and blues songs from the likes of Stevie Wonder and Otis Redding, amongst others, and received such a fabulous response it became a weekly gig.

"Campfire" grew to be a Friday and Sunday night staple at Red Lion, as well as part of Tuesday nights at Slane Public House and Wednesdays at Prohibition. The concept is simple: Martin and Craig play a variety of covers and original songs, mostly chosen by the audience. "It's all about what the folks want to hear," says Rivas. "They write their requests down and bring them up [to the stage]." The duo randomly pick and play what is written- no rehearsal, no warning-resulting in an entertaining show that gets the audience singing, dancing, clapping, and coming back for more.

Another example of brilliance that recently developed out of the Martin and Craig brain trust is "Backscratch Sessions," which debuted at the Red Lion in April. "Backscratch," an idea a year and half in the making, dances with the concept of artists getting together to play each other's songs: each playing an original, a cover, and a cover of a fellow artist (which is a surprise). "There are so many fabulously talented artists playing around here that we said let's make it happen now," Rivas enthusiastically proclaimed. With a line-up that included Dave Pittenger, Kailin Garrity, Rachel Platten, Dan Torres, Nick Howard, Robbie Gil, and Amy Regan, to name a few, the night was a huge success and is becoming a regular event. "I was pleasantly surprised because we left there feeling like family," Martin beamed, "it was such a great vibe."

Not only incredibly gifted in exploring other people's songs, Martin also writes beautiful and infectious music and lyrics of his own, as seen in 2005's "Pride of the Valley" and the brand new "Sea of Clouds," currently being mixed and mastered with Dave Pittenger. "Pride of the Valley" was a therapeutic process for Rivas, as many songs deal directly and indirectly with the loss of his stepbrother on 9/11, who worked for Cantor Fitzgerald in the North Tower. Despite the song's upbeat demeanor, the lyrics for the crowd favorite "North," actually came from a dream that they found his stepbrother's body- visions of comfort, sorrow, and joy fill the listener and demonstrate Martin's unbelievable ability to bring a smile and foster hope through music.

A mainstay of the New York singer/songwriter community, Rivas has had the pleasure of watching this current scene evolve and transform over the past few years. With so many talented singer/songwriters and musicians to choose from Martin claims, "I can't imagine a greater concentration of talent at any time other than what's taking place right now in New York. It's a different industry now; every artist has immediate and instant global reach. And you can do with it whatever you want, the question is, it there someone out there to pick up on what you're doing."

"I'm floored everytime I come into the city to play," Rivas declares, observing the honest and heartfelt friendships between artists. "There are so many genuine people in this 'scene.' "

Now on a steady rotation of Campfire gigs and playing out original music at The Bitter End and Rockwood Music Hall, Martin Rivas is gearing up to release "Sea of Clouds," a record whose theme deals with messages of surviving and thriving in the face of turmoil. Working with several musicians and friends on the album inspired trust and provided comfort throughout the process. "I know that when its finished its something I'm going to be immensely proud of for the process for as much as it sounds," Rivas affirms.

A campfire is the perfect image for a Martin Rivas performance- it's warming, comfortable, social and endearing. New York is a vast city, difficult at times to make your way around, easy to get lost in... so if you haven't been to a Campfire, Backscratch, or Martin Rivas show, venture over one evening. I promise, you will feel like you just found home.

For more information on Martin and to listen to tracks, please visit www.martinrivas.net or www.myspace.com/martinrivas. Martin Rivas and Craig Meyer play every Sunday and Friday at The Red Lion- www.redlionnyc.com, every Wednesday at Prohibition- www.prohibition.net, and every Tuesday at Slane Public House- www.slanenyc.com.

The next Backscratch Sessions will be held at The Red Lion on Monday, June 29 at 10:00pm, featuring: Live Society, Jill Stevenson, Greg Mayo, Rebecca Haviland, Martin Rivas, Casey Shea, Bess Rogers, and Brent Shuttleworth.

Dave Pittenger: Jack of All Trades

2009-06-08T22:43:00.018-04:00

Few people in this world understand the lost art of a mix tape, and Dave Pittenger is one of them. A classically trained saxophonist since fourth grade, Dave made his first multi-track recordings just one year later using a simple formula: "I would record the open strings on a guitar on one cassette, playing it over a boom box while recording on another cassette deck with the saxophone, and maybe some singing." The initiative Dave took at a young age would eventually steer him down a path paved for success; this well-rounded jack of all music trades is not only proficient in saxophone, piano, and guitar, but also in the art of music production and songwriting.

Recently re-emerging into the performing scene about two years ago after a brief hiatus, the Dave Pittenger Band can be seen at venues throughout New York and New Jersey. The instrumentally delightful band consists of lead singer Pittenger, who also plays guitar and piano, bassist Jon Price or Brian Killeen, and drummer/percussionist Ryan Vaughn. Offering a sundry of styles and sounds, a set encompasses everything from jazz/rock/pop to an alternative country, "rootsy" vibe. Songs from the 2007 release "Simple Things" range from dramatic, powerful storytelling to soft, sweet ballads, fulfilling all the listening needs of the captivated audience. Currently plugging away at his latest material, Pittenger reveals, "My album goes a lot of different places. I take it on a song by song basis."

A musician who has kept his career as varied as his music, Dave is also no stranger to the road. For a period of time Pittenger was booking three-month loops- a month on the road, a month off, and then another month back out again, and did not play New York City. While touring can be daunting for any emerging artist, due to the unpredictability of the venues and the difficult task of booking and coordinating, Dave stepped up to the challenge. Typically, a six-week tour is a huge undertaking, between booking, promoting, driving, playing shows, and finding a place to sleep. However, the aggressive optimist lays out a well-thought plan to make the most of these travels, including avoiding hotel and restaurant costs, and touring with band mates or fellow solo artists.

Now trading road life for a place in the New York scene, Dave is expanding further into music production. Working as the producer behind colleagues album's such as Dan Torres and Martin Rivas, Dave is in the process of developing an in-house music production company named "Mint."

"In college I started recording demos. When it came time to make a record, to save some money I decided to track it myself. I didn't really have a budget so I also mixed it myself. It grew from there." Pittenger explains. "I feel comfortable on the other side of the glass."

If working as a singer, songwriter, musician, and producer wasn't enough, a seemingly minor networking change opened up yet another lucrative opportunity for Dave's extremely balanced career. After moving from Philadelphia to Belmar a few years ago, Dave revisited an old account on the Garageband site and changed the location to New York City. The very next day Pittenger received an e-mail from a man looking for New York bands. "He was putting together a project for Prentice Hall," Dave explained. "They wanted to place rock and pop songs with the 6-10 grade literature books that go along with the lessons." This assignment led to even more favorable situations, from writing Optimum Online and Ambien commercials to a strong working relationship with the Creative Director for Alias Arts. "It's all about getting the opportunity. It's tough to do everything on your own," Dave explains, "But once you get in a situation you have to produce."

Speaking with Dave Pittenger is a breath of fresh air, filling you with motivation and expanding your mind to look far beyond the horizon. Never placing limitations, Dave has no pre-conceived notion of where he should end up. For this humble yet contagiously friendly musician the world is filled with endless possibilities; a strong attitude and a commitment to challenging his own talents will only ensure that success is at every corner. "I don't have all my eggs in one basket," Pittenger says with a warm smile, "If I didn't do the music thing I would have gone to law school. Maybe run for public office."

Well Dave Pittenger, you have my vote.

To hear Dave's music, contact him about production, and check out tour dates visit www.thedpband.com or www.myspace.com/davepittenger.

Happening This Week!

2009-05-24T23:25:00.006-04:00

After a brief hiatus NYC Artists Scene is back in full swing! This is a busy week for some of our featured artists, if you are in the area definitely be sure to check out the following shows:

Tuesday, May 26- Canal Room Presents Artists You Should Know: Brent Shuttleworth with Miranda Lee Richards and Trey Lockerbie, 8:00pm. www.canalroom.com.

Friday, May 29- Caleb Hawley with Full Band at The Living Room, 9:00pm. www.livingroomny.com

Next artist in the line-up is Dave Pittenger, who will be playing a show at the Bitter End this Thursday, May 28, 9:00pm. www.bitterend.com.

All of these guys are FANTASTIC, don't miss these shows!

Brent Shuttleworth: Finding Home

2009-05-06T09:18:00.010-04:00

Brent Shuttleworth's guitar teacher at Bates College informed him he was so far behind in terms of understanding music that he wouldn't have a chance making a career out of it. "I received a D+ at the end of the year," Shuttleworth said with a laugh. While owning a guitar since age 10, Brent received no formal training until college, in a guitar class and a music theory course, investing a great deal of time and hard work to catch up.

Graduating from Bates with a B.A. in both Philosophy and Political Science, Shuttleworth wanted to be a public defender. Despite loving music and wanting to play, sing, and write songs, it was a strong desire to help people and be of service to those in need that led to the path of law and justice. "I guess there was a period of time that I felt like [music] didn't provide practical use for people," Shuttleworth explains. The realization came in moving to New York and starting a full-time job with a non-profit company, a career choice that opened Brent's eyes in defining what helps the less fortunate. In discovering the way audiences responded to and were moved by art, it was easier to understand that music was equally significant in day to day existence.

This honest, genuine, compassionate attitude not only comes across in Shuttleworth's personality, but also in the truthful lyrics set gracefully amongst the soothing, warm melodies of his songs. "The artistic side of me is a cross between arrogance and foolishness," claims Brent, a musician who strives for deeper, more purposeful words but understands technical limitations. A major component of achieving success as an artist is bringing out the best in yourself and those around you, a concept Shuttleworth has mastered over time: "I surround myself with very technical, talented people. I can hear things, I know what sounds good, and I know what I like."

Turning to early David Gray for musical and lyrical influence, Brent began to explore songwriting as a freshman in college. Finding Gray's work to be bold, creative and inspiring, it was the balance of "abstract yet beautifully specific" wording that grabbed Shuttleworth, guiding the path to more powerful work. In listening to "Witness," Brent's current album, that equilibrium is evident- "Nothing flashy, words that cut you, speak the truth, and convey what I'm feeling."

Moving every year and a half for most of his youth, Shuttleworth grew up experiencing the hardships of trying to fit in. From eating alone at the lunch table to struggling to make friends and feel accepted, those memories left their scent well into adulthood. Then, during a seven month stay in South Africa, studying at a Masters program at University of Cape Town, Brent felt an awe-inspiring sense of acceptance and belonging. Being in a place where poverty and struggle were part of daily life, it was moving to attend services and see thousands of people so warm, open, and extending themselves. The title track "Witness" was born through this experience, a concept that Brent explains: "The idea of acknowledging our existence, validated through saying hello and introducing ourselves. It was overwhelming, I didn't know what to make of it."

Perhaps that's why the actual song lyrics did not come to Shuttleworth until some time later. "I did not write it there," Brent divulged. "I sit down sometimes and a song will come out. Other times I'll have an experience and the song won't come out for months, or even years. Which is beautiful because seeds are planted at all these different points... sometimes they come to fruition and other times they don't. They're just memories."

After the program in South Africa, Shuttleworth moved to New York City, a place called home since 2004. The NYC scene has evolved greatly for Brent, whose first gig was at the Bowery Poetry Club. Starting out as a regular at spoken word poetry venues such as Bar 13 and Poet's Cafe, it's been within the past two years that a following was cultivated. Shuttleworth's talent has graced the stage of most of the downtown scene, including Rockwood, The Cutting Room, The Bitter End, Arlene's Grocery, The Living Room, and Piano's to name a few. Rockwood Music Hall has become a venue of it's own strengths, constantly exposing Brent and colleagues to people coming for the scene.

"Rockwood is like my home," states Brent, singing the praises of owner Ken Rockwood. "There's something inspiring when you meet people that are really about the music. Ken is one of the sweetest, most genuine, authentic people. He's doing sound until two in the morning every night just because he loves it. There is nothing else attached to that. It's about the purpose of providing a space where real things can happen."

Real things are happening every day for Brent Shuttleworth, a musician who understands the difference between great artists and everyone else. "It comes to the point when it's not about them. It's about the purpose behind what you do," Brent declares. Focused, determined and insightful, Shuttleworth lists simply being happy as a main goal in life. Being a career artist, having a family, writing songs well into old age, continuing to tour and expand the audience are all part of sustaining this goal. Paraphrasing a quote once read, Brent reveals, "The main block in any transformation is being unhappy with where you are now."

Beautiful words to live by.

To hear Brent's music or check out a show visit www.myspace.com/brentshuttleworth or join the group Brent Shuttleworth Live on Facebook, www.facebook.com.

Emily Hope Price: Letting Go

2009-04-29T10:42:00.010-04:00

The warmth that radiates from Emily Hope Price fills the room with a sense of calm and comfort. A genuine smile welcomes, lively eyes sparkle, and a breath of fresh air swirls around as the talent of this classically trained cellist grabs your attention. Observing the variety of ways Price uses the cello to make original sound, it's easy to forget there is a soothing yet powerful voice to match the music.

First starting cello lessons in fourth grade, Price trained for over 12 years, receiving a M.A. in Cello Performance from Carnegie Mellon, and an Artists Certificate from SUNY Purchase. This impressive education fine-tuned her exquisite mastering of the cello, but left Price wanting more. Moving back to Utah upon the Artist Certificate completion, Emily toyed more with the idea of songwriting and improvising. "I had a secret desire to sing," she said slyly, but found it difficult to break out of the "classical" stereotype. "When people know you as one thing you have to talk them into believing you can do something else."

Price first began to explore songwriting while in the Masters program at Carnegie Mellon. Despite spending most of her teenage years pouring out thoughts and feelings into a journal, Emily did not transcribe them into a musical outlet until collaborating with friend and opera student Anna Vogelzang, composing and performing a song called "At Last," in which Anna sang and Emily played cello. During her post-graduation period in Utah, Price continued to play with sounds and songs, using previously composed music to create experimental tracks. Having spent years being classically educated, Emily struggled with the question, "What do you do with your life when you're a trained cellist?"

The answer came upon moving to New York City and finding her niche in the ever-growing music scene. Playing out as both a solo artist and a member of "Pearl and the Beard," Emily has flawlessly crossed the line from the classical audience to the indie/rock/pop crowd. As a classical cellist, "You have to practice hours to get nearer to perfection. I move my hand millimeters and it changes the sound. You have to do it all from muscle memory, intonation must be spot on... if I move my finger it will create a different note, or a different color of the same note," Price explained. The subtle intensity of this training made the transition into the singer/songwriter scene slightly easier, with the rock/indie audience less attentive to the perfect details and more interested in the overall quality and pleasure of the music. "I want to be a better musician. I want to play better and be more proficient on my instrument then I am. That's why I came here," claims Emily, who has called New York home for the past two years.

Still, being a "singing cellist" is rare to find in a scene inundated with piano players and guitarists belting their music at the hottest venues. Emily continues to push through with her music, believing in the expanding scene and performing solo and accompanying sets with fellow colleagues. "Things are starting to break through where you wouldn't normally expect it... little niches are starting to come into play," Price believes. "I hope some of the things I'm doing will change the expectation about what a cello can do."

Citing early Barbra Streisand as a guilty pleasure and Radiohead and Bjork as two favorite artists, Emily keeps as much of an assortment as possible in her music collection. An artist who enjoys soundtracks for their variety, loves watching movies, and whose instrument repertoire is expanding to learn accordion, Price is one of the most down-to-earth, humble, and genuine people to represent the scene.

While still feeling the struggles of the dampening economy and dealing with financial stress, as most artists do, Emily is able to truly treasure the small moments that have added to her blossoming career. A few years ago while living in Salt Lake City, Utah, Emily was approached by a friend who was working as a music therapist who asked her to play for a patient at a hospice. This particular patient had a career as a professional cellist prior to falling ill, and had not touched a cello in close to 25 years. After she played for him and was packing up to leave he asked her, "Can I play that?"

"He played my cello for the first time in years and was so happy," Emily revealed with joy. "I ran into the girl about a year later and when I asked how he was doing found out he passed away two weeks after I played for him." Knowing that the music and time with this former artist had filled one of his dying wishes, she described the experience as "one of the coolest things that has ever happened to me."

There is a quality about Emily Hope Price that reaches out and soothes your aura. Creating sound that is "sensual, warm, and thick" it is not difficult to understand why her presence is so easily accepted and appreciated in a diverse city like New York. Pearl and the Beard, the band that Price plays in, began from simply showing up at an open mic and connecting with Jocelyn Mackenzie and Jeremy Styles. My personal connection to Emily came from seeing her performance at Rockwood Music Hall a few weeks ago with Dan Torres, another featured artist. Everyone has a chance to intertwine, mingle, feed off of and inspire one another. These chance encounters have made the New York scene a place that continuously amazes Price. "I could not have had the experiences I have had here anywhere else. You can be drenched in music here. It's unbelievable," Emily stated emphatically. "It's amazing the way music can bring people together."

It has not always been an easy road though, as any fellow artist will concur. Shifting gears from one style of training to another is difficult, and causes more of an internal struggle than anything else. Emily's best advice? "Just love what you do. I love classical music. I would feel so intensely about the pieces I would play because I thought they were so beautiful," Price declares. "At the same time I felt it wasn't me. I didn't trust myself enough to let go. It's hard to let go. Change is really hard. I'm still in that transition."

Even though Price's laid back, carefree attitude can be infectious at times, it would be impossible to say this musician is anything but motivated. With numerous goals and plans for the future, it's important for Emily to open up her ability to communicate, because "the more you communicate the more you can move people." A person who truly speaks from the heart, Price enthusiastically described another secret goal: "My dad has been watching David Letterman for the past twenty-seven years. Anytime a musical guest would come on if there was a cellist he would yell downstairs for me to come and see it. I just want to perform on David Letterman and wear a t-shirt that says 'Hi Dad.'"

So David Letterman, if you're reading, please contact Emily Hope Price. It's for her dad.

For more information and tour dates for Emily Hope Price check out www.myspace.com/emilyhopeprice.

What's To Come!

2009-04-20T09:30:00.004-04:00

It's been awhile since my last post, so I wanted to keep everyone updated on what to look forward to in the upcoming weeks. I have an interview tomorrow with the incredibly talented singer/songwriter/cellist Emily Hope Price and another on Wednesday with singer/songwriter Brent Shuttleworth, so you can look for those articles in the next week.

If you are in the New York City area there are some great shows happening over the next couple of days-

Tonight, Monday 4/20 at The Red Lion on Bleecker St, 10 different singer/songwriters from NYC Artists Scene will be performing the "Backscratch Sessions." Here's a description:

The Inaugural Incarnation of The Back Scratch Sessions... 10 songwriters come together and play each others' songs via a random drawing done in advance. Each artist will play 3 songs: one of their own, a favorite cover (or another original of theirs if they so choose)... and finally the Back Scratch: their interpretation of a song written by the artist whose name they drew.

My last featured artist, Dan Torres, will be participating in the evening. Check it out!

Also, featured artist Caleb Hawley will be playing tomorrow night, Tuesday 4/21 at Ars Nova on W. 54th St. This will be a fantastic show and he's playing with a full band, including percussionist Ryan Vaughn. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/645095/prm/CALEBFAN .

Get out there and support our artists!

Dan Torres: Breaking the Silence

2009-03-23T21:09:00.013-04:00

In this constantly evolving community one path inevitably leads to another, opening our eyes and ears to the talent that lies right in front of us. A few weeks ago at The Living Room, the trail of scattered postcards strewn across tables at Madi Diaz's show guided me to the CD/DVD Release Party of yet another audibly stimulating artist, Dan Torres.

On Friday, March 13 at 9pm, an aura of respect hovered over the record release party at The Living Room, carefully slithering through the audience's anticipation of the next striking note. Promoting "Dan Torres: Live," an acoustic mix of both previously recorded and brand new songs, Dan commanded the jam-packed crowd with a powerful voice and impressive guitar skills that rocked listeners into a silent trance, only to be awoken by the finale of egg shakers percussively highlighting an outstanding collaborative finale. The exquisitely packaged CD/DVD offers a gorgeous arrangement of live music that takes its listeners through every emotion and back again; it's a collection that speaks of life, love, and the human condition that is raw, stripped and relatable.

Stage presence and vocal control come so naturally to this performer, it's hard to believe Dan just started playing the NYC circuit in 2005. With formal training in music and composition, his guitar skills were self-taught and vocals came much later in life. Torres started writing a bit in high school, more in college, but preferred to seek out others to perform his songs. "I was very reluctant, I hated it," Dan says about singing, "I was just figuring it out." Influenced musically by the big chords and interesting voicings of guitarists from Stone Temple Pilots, Tonic, and Nirvana, it was singers like Jimmy Gnecco, Bono, Matthew Bellamy, Freddie Mercury, and Jeff Buckley who guided his voice. In singing along with albums like Buckley's "Grace," Torres learned more about his range and vocal capabilities, developing a style uniquely his own.

Digging through the layers of Torres' striking music, a journal of lyrics sits peacefully, composed on mostly real-life events, with a bit of fantasizing over how things could have happened. When first starting the writing process Dan claimed, "I had no experience with writing, I had experience with living." As life moved on, new lyrics became more imaginative, letting the listeners take away what they wanted from it. "I tell a lot of secrets very publicly, and that's kind of a relief, " Torres admits. "Everything is a metaphor for something else."

Enticing for spectators, who are captured by the artistic and comfortable flow of the live acoustic album, Dan's writing offers something for everyone. "I try to write music where musicians will respect it and the average listener will still enjoy it." Mission accomplished, as evident by the blend of people who find pleasure, excitement, and a little piece of themselves in each of Torres' songs.

Dan Torres' musical journey began not too long ago, in New York City circa 2005. Recording started immediately, his first album "Where I Stand" was released in Fall 2006 and a tour was booked by Summer 2007. The country-wide tour ended in Portland, Oregon, where Torres ended up living for a year. In October 2007, Dan's manager set up a performance at CMJ in New York, followed by a 6-week tour in England with percussionist Ryan Vaughn, before finally returning to NYC last summer.

While being on the road can be tough, this 25-year-old understands the importance of moving around, meeting new people, and treating this career path like the business it is. Success has come naturally because of this attitude, with Torres filling listening rooms and clubs all over New York City in the past year. Perhaps its because he truly gets the scene, from understanding the different neighborhoods, time slots, and venues to realizing starting at the bottom and working your way up, just like any other job. Favorite places to play include Rockwood Music Hall and The Living Room, despite the fact these free venues pull in little income. "For the artists who need to make money it sucks, but at the same time we meet so many more people," Torres explains, "It's more important for me to have a line out the door than to force people to buy my CD."

Dan acknowledges while NYC is vast in opportunities, it's also pertinent to an artist's progression to leave, go on tour, and meet "normal" people. These "normal" people include music lovers, not just music players; the average downloader or listener who simply respect and like music. "I would like to play for 1,000 strangers every night," Torres states as his personal goal. "Beyond that it's not intimate anymore." Specific venue types include concert halls where classical musicians play, where "you don't need a mic because they are so well built."

To think this musician's career began in a small TriBeca bar that no longer exists called "The Orange Bear." Over spring break in college, Dan placed a call to the owner asking if he could play an open mic on a random weekday night. The owner agreed, leading to his first gig where the audience consisted of three friends, the bartender and the owner. Instead of being disheartened, the young Torres saw this as a business opportunity, and started organizing gigs, advertising, and bringing in other bands. Eventually more night gigs, including weekends, were added and crowds grew; a fantastic discovery into gaining fans and incorporating musicians. Over time Dan began playing at larger, more established venues in the city, and now practically calls Rockwood home. "Thanks [to that opportunity] I figured out how to promote bigger things," Torres states. "I want to be able to call a venue and say I want to play tomorrow."

One of the most impressive aspects of Dan's show for both the listeners and the artist is how breathtakingly quiet a room becomes. Listing this as his favorite part of performing, Torres declares, "Silence. When the audience is totally silent when I'm singing. Because it's really hard for people to sit quietly and it must mean what I'm doing really means something to them." A true observer of human nature, Dan doesn't always come with a set list prepared, opting to watch the audience to figure out what to play next; probably the reason why songs resonate so personally to each individual eagerly hanging on the next chord.

Above all, it's the natural, genuine nature of Dan Torres, a man who values the importance of being a good person, that will keep drawing audiences and filling those 1,000 person concert halls. People often forget that artists are regular people, placing them on pedestals or idolizing them for the wrong reasons. Dan makes it clear that is not his intent. "I make it a point when I play to ask everyone to come say hello, and I mean it."

Check out Dan Torres at www.dantorresmusic.net or www.myspace.com/dantorres. And the next time you are at a show, be sure to say hello.

Caleb Hawley: Welcome to the Show.

2009-03-17T10:02:00.009-04:00

If the culture and arts of New York City were to be an integral part of a daily diet, Caleb Hawley would be the main course. This well-balanced musician understands the value and importance of entertainment, incorporating humor, song variety, audience participation, and even a few sweet dances moves that flavor even the quietest venues. No stranger to the stage, Hawley has spent the past year touring the country, playing colleges, coffee houses, and a medley of local music spots, impressing audiences with a uniquely powerful voice and charming stage presence.

Hailing from the Midwest, Hawley is the youngest of three and grew up in a household with musician parents and a singer/songwriter brother. “Our vacations every summer were never to Mexico,” Caleb says, “We went to folk festivals.” Formal music lessons started at age 11, first with the drums, moving onto the guitar. Inspired by rock music like Metallica and Nirvana, Caleb joined the jazz band with dreams of pursuing the electric guitar. With three possible life goals in place at age 16, it was the singer/songwriter path that won, beating out college music professor and singing in a local acappella group. After high school he spent a year at community college, transferring later to Berklee College in Boston to complete his music degree. The move to New York came directly after graduation, along with marriage to high school sweetheart Samantha.

The 24-year-old’s music is a delicious blend of acoustic, funk and pop, with a dash of “white boy soul.” Growing up listening to a song’s lyrical content led to Hawley’s folk-based writing, but a significant jazz background gave way to gospel and blues influences. Another highlight of the act is Caleb’s use of the loop pedal, an increasingly popular instrument used by guitarists “to create looping layers of melody or texture during a live performance.”

“I first started using it at colleges because they wanted to hear pop songs,” clarifies Hawley. With a bag full of tricks to “spice thing up," including a musical caterpillar, wooden spoon, frying pan, shaker, and whistle, the audience is treated to radio hits like “Senorita” and “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough,” along with Caleb’s personal introductory rap, a clever, catchy marketing technique to introduce his website.

A true observer of human nature and social aspects, Caleb was originally drawn to satirical music, citing Randy Newman and Nelly McKay as two major influences. “What comes to me naturally is making fun of people,” Hawley laughs, but understands, “I love funny music, but I’ll listen to the CD and few times and that’s what it’s good for.” As a result, recent songs have taken a more serious turn, with chords that sing of beauty, sadness, struggle, and hope. The outcome: Music you can listen to over and over again; time capsules of the writer’s life.

The next wind of Caleb’s tour swirls through major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Des Moines, and Portland, as well local gigs in Nebraska, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont. A self-made musician, Hawley started booking tours when he was 16, taking the family van to various locations in the Midwest. One of the most difficult aspects of this lifestyle is the do-it-yourself attitude that must prevail in order to succeed. A lesson taught at a young age: “The effort you put into it in the long run will get you further.” This is particularly true in the NYC scene, loaded with options and talented young artists; it’s hard to stand out in the crowd. Previously discouraged by the “hard to impress” atmosphere in New York, Caleb felt an enormous boost of confidence and energy after a warm reception at Rockwood Music Hall last week. “It was amazing,” he said, “When the crowd is good it is easy to feed off of.”

One of the top 12 finalists in “New York Songwriter’s Circle” last year, Caleb continues to perform with this incredible operation, next appearing in a live showcase at World Café Live in Philadelphia. The networking provided by this intimate and exclusive group offers publicity to the artists, a chance put forth their most powerful music, and camaraderie between producers, musicians, and club owners. Another remarkable facet of the New York artists scene, “Songwriter’s Circle” brought Hawley one step closer to his short-term goal: to be able to walk into any town, at any given time, and draw a crowd of fifty strangers who are there solely to see him play.

What will lure these crowds is Caleb’s phenomenal ability to capture the energy of a performance. “That’s something that has always been important to me, putting on a full, entertaining show. As a solo singer/songwriter, you can be so much like everyone else, so you just have to keep switching it up. I strive to make the show fun,” Hawley explains. "Fun" is certainly the vibe radiated at a Caleb Hawley show, where you walk away smiling, happy, fulfilled, and enthused; a main course that satisfies so wholly, there’s no need for dessert.

For more information and tour dates please check out www.calebhawley.com or www.myspace.com/calebhawley.

Madi Diaz: The Soul Behind the Voice

2009-03-11T21:35:00.015-04:00

It's a Saturday night in New York City, and The Living Room is packed from the stage to the bar. A medley of characters fill the room, all eager to hear the astounding voice of fresh-faced 22 year-old singer/songwriter, Madi Diaz, whose music can only be described as an orgasm for your ears. From the fanciful opening song "It's Only a Kiss" to the heart-tugging encore "Pictures," Diaz commands her audience with every effortless note escaping that gifted mouth.

Growing up in Lancaster, PA, Madi's father (a musician as well) introduced her to piano at age five, and guitar at fourteen. "I lived out in the middle of nowhere... I rode horses for ten years before I did anything else," Diaz says with a laugh, "Ponies were really great until I found the guitar, and then that was really great." More formal training came during her high school years at Paul Green's School of Rock in Philadelphia, PA, before heading to Berklee College in Boston. Diaz now resides in Nashville, TN, writing, recording, networking, touring, and following her dream.

Perched casually at the bar at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, it's almost hard to believe the powerful voice, moving lyrics, and infectious spirit that radiates out of this humble young girl onstage. Describing her indie/folk/pop blend as "flirty, cynical, and distracted," you can't help but wonder if that's how this insanely talented artist also views herself.

Diaz started writing around the age of 16, creating songs that reach out to audiences of all ages and lyrics that resonate maturity and real-life experience. "When you start writing a song it takes a direction no matter what you try to do, and the more you try to force it, it doesn't get to it's full potential," Madi explains, "If the emotion is taking it one way you have to follow it." It seems the road to create a song is similar to the road to create an artist.

Taking care of all the booking and hype promotions, finding a place to sleep, eating well, and learning the target audience in each new city they tour is just a sampling of responsibility for this young entrepreneur. "It's not just getting there to play your set and pour your heart into," Diaz maintains. There are club owners and audiences to thank, other bands to make connections with, CD's and promotional materials to sell, mailing lists to generate, and networking to be made across the board. Challenging, but not discouraging for Madi, whose band mates provide a fantastic, built-in support system.

Madi Diaz is rarely seen performing without best friend Kyle Ryan by her side. Diaz and Ryan have been playing and writing together since meeting at Berklee; their onstage connection screams of a solid friendship and mutual respect. Touring with Adam Popick and Mitch Jones, the gifted foursome are a pleasure to watch. Constant movement happens on stage, with each band member rotating instruments and vocals for every single track, validating that these are no ordinary musicians, but artists in every sense of the word. Not phased by being the token female, Diaz says, "It's been so gratifying to just have people that know you and respect you... They are my peers, musicians, friends, colleagues, brothers and fathers... lot of roles all in one." The admiration is reciprocal, obvious as they let Madi take center stage.

Another mentor and source of inspiration for Madi is manager Ty Stiklorius. Diaz sings her praises: "She's like a big sister, best friend, mom, manager... she has an amazing career, a beautiful baby, and has struggled so hard to get where she is... she just wants to help other people, the light of the world, just wants to give... I hope that one day I'm in a position like hers so that I can help somebody like myself."

This budding 20-something declares performing a John Denver duet with Tom Paxton at the Songwriters Hall of Fame to be a career highlight, and holds high esteem for Radiohead, respecting the way they've built their albums and their command of the industry. "They've made really smart decisions- production-wise, career-wise- that I think everybody could take note from. They've done it really well," she explains.

As for advice Diaz would pass on to other new artists getting their feet wet? "Do everything. Never say no. Say yes until you get so busy because people know you are always going to say yes. That's when you can start picking and choosing." Madi adds with a laugh, "Except drugs. Say no to drugs but say yes to everything else."

Now promoting "Ten Gun Salute," the EP follow up to her debut "Skin and Bone," Diaz's growth and experimental style with music is intriguing to observe. Recording "Skin and Bone" in Hawaii with a group of young musicians and producers new to the scene, Diaz exclaimed, "I barely had enough songs for a record!" Citing influences such as Patty Griffin and Ryan Adams, Madi was still learning "to influence and create what you need to do instead of imitating."

Collaborating with Kyle on "Ten Gun Salute," Madi's new EP (which was recorded in less than seven days) has taken a wonderful turn lyrically, vocally, and musically to incorporate a conglomeration of new concepts and sounds. Instruments have been added, and that powerful voice grabs every emotion of the uniquely different songs. "We realized we didn't need to force songs, we could let them be what they were," Diaz explains.

Still writing the new, tweaking the old, and pushing forward on this incredible journey, Madi's passion, commitment, and love for her art is obvious to anyone within miles. Observing our nation is "do-it-yourself," this aggressive musician understands the importance of who you know, who you need to know, and figuring out how to get there. "It's all right there for you," Diaz says, " People just need to have the drive to go and get it." No regrets reside in this gifted singer/songwriter, who made her peace with youth and is ready for this road. "I think this would be what I was missing if I did anything else," Madi states with absolution.

For the record, the world would be missing out if she did anything else.

For more information on Madi Diaz and to check out her tour line-up, please visit www.madidiaz.com or www.myspace.madidiaz.

Ryan Vaughn: Outside the "Box"

2009-03-02T18:09:00.001-05:00

Ryan Vaughn may strike you as just another Village hipster with a cool air of confidence and a dream. Excited blue eyes accentuated by Clark Kent glasses, a genuine smile, and a warm greeting make you feel instantly at ease. There's more to this unique and talented drummer/percussionist, however; he's one of the most honest, driven, and well-spoken young artists in the up-and-coming New York City music scene.

This 25-year-old NY implant burst his way onto the scene in 2004. The first beat on his drum came at the age of 10 in a California school jazz band. That percussion experience put him ahead of the game when he moved to Arizona the following year, where Ryan's competitive nature pushed him to continue being the best in his class and stay ahead of the curve. After high school graduation he enrolled in Mesa Community College, earning two associates degrees before transferring with a full ride to WPUNJ's prestigious jazz program.

"My dad had a job he hated and retired way early and always encouraged my brother and I to pursue something we enjoy and have fun, but be smart about it," Vaughn said. He credits his parents, brother, aunts and uncles with being one hundred percent supportive of his career choice and talent, despite not coming from a "musical family."

In sitting and talking with Ryan, enthusiasm and passion for his art radiate through the room. I first saw Ryan perform on a cajon (accent on the "a")- a large wood box on which he makes original sounds that rival a full African tribe in the height of fertility season. The rhythms, beats, clatters and reverberations he was able to make out of what seemed like a simple box and some kitchen utensils blew me away. The "utensils" include shakers, tambourines, sticks, cymbals, etc. "I'll [see something] make it my own and try to do it better," says Vaughn, "Everything makes sound... I'll play the table, I'll play the floor... There's always more, there's never enough."

An artist who can discover rhythms that never existed before, and who can breathe life into a piece of music rejuvenating it's very essence; three words that Ryan used to represent his sound are: "Organic. Primal. Colorful." Vaughn explains, "Organic- I don't strap stuff on myself... I need to be able to move around, pick it up off the floor... I want to be very earthly and worldly... all honest, not contrived. Primal- You hit things. They make sound. Man hits box. It's all physical. Colorful- I create textures... It's like painting with sound." And what an exquisite picture he paints.

After sitting for awhile sipping our 9th Street Espresso coffees, we dove into the topic of the New York City singer/songwriter scene. Vaughn has impressively established relationships with virtually every singer/songwriter in the city in the past 5 years. One quick glance at his gig calendar and you'll see that is no exaggeration.

Spending his first year working, commuting, sleeping two hours a night, checking out different venues and artists, he would attend shows alone, collect cards, load up his database, and send e-mails, hoping to get his name out to as many people as possible.

It was his persistence with Jill Stevenson after seeing her play The Living Room that landed him his first NY gig. He went on to play with the Josh Dion Band and later hooked up with Dan Torres. With Dan, he spent time writing and playing in California, leading to a six-month tour in England, before returning to New York last year and hitting the scene hard. Most recently, Ryan was featured on The Conan O'Brien Show as a percussionist for Joshua Radin, an opportunity that came up, quite literally, because of a dream and a friendship with Radin's drummer. "Somehow the universe takes care of you. Sometimes you just have to have faith... that you're gonna make rent," Vaughn says with a slight smirk, as though taunting the Universe to test him.

For Vaughn, and many of the artists who live and breathe the culture and music of NYC, the singer/songwriter scene is extremely personal. A community of like souls, making music and trying to survive. From folk to country to rock, the essence is all the same- original music and personal lyrics, untainted by professional producers. Songs are their "babies," their "seedlings," continuously played out to see how they grow. Sometimes the arrangements will never change; sometimes they will evolve ten times over. Ryan compared the writing process to two schools of thought: "Beethoven wrote nine symphonies and spent forever trying to get it right. Mozart just cranked them out. Most singer/songwriters fall into one of those categories."

Vaughn pointed out these musicians recently had one of their most successful nights in years at the live music bar Piano's NYC, on a random Tuesday. Why? Because people need music right now. It's cheap, it's entertaining, it's an escape from the problems we deal with every day. It's comforting, a warm blanket to wrap ourselves in on these dismal, cold winter nights. Every song provides a hug- some warm and squishy, some tight and fierce, some sort and comforting. We find reflections of ourselves in these artists, identifying with their pleasure and pain; their musical journey offers a glimmer of hope.

Ryan Vaughn's passion and ambition is so addicting and infectious you feel inspired to do more with your life after speaking with him. Musicians who strike a personal chord for Ryan include Dan Torres, Wes Hutchinson, Sasha Dobson, Mieka Pauley, and Pete and J, to name a few. They're incredible singers and songwriters, along with being smart business people. Networking is second nature to them; understanding the give and take, and immersing themselves with like minds. As for Ryan, his words say it best. "I want to play with the stars, I want to be a household name, I want to change the world. I want it all. I want big."

For more information on Ryan and upcoming shows, check out www.ryanvaughn.com.