ARL Roots Review Writers in Raritan
Because both of American Roots Live's big nights got bumped by bad weather, last week's Writers in Raritan is the one spectacular to report. Perhaps sweet serendipity, last week's WiR was one special show.
Therefore four special performers will get their due props here where normally we'd discuss dozens.
On Wednesday night Christine Martucci, Aster Pheonyx, Sarah Donner and Kevin Reavey delivered the goods at 10 Anderson Street much to the delight of the assembled WiR enthusiasts.
A bubbling creative community.
Besides stellar performers, last week's Writers in Raritan had more artists on hand than actually on the bill, there was a cool positive vibe in the room.
John Powers, Peter Prasa, Corey Small, Frank Victor and Vincent Inciong (all booked on upcoming shows; Powers and Prasa tonight) listened and mingled. Add the ear and awareness of JR Bradfield, and it was as if a mind-bending songwriter's-workshop could have broken out at any moment.
Kevin Reavey, on his second Writers in Raritan appearance was well received again. He kicked it off with ease. Songs, strong of hook and lyric, Kevin has a nice presence on our show. He'll be back. Clcik here for the regularly updated performance calendar to watch for Kevin Reavy's return.
Christine Martucci's music is honest and a sound you feel as much as hear.
Instantly connected to her energy, when first I met the hard rockin', soft soul of Christine Martucci just minutes before she hit the stage at a packed Stanhope House one night - then was immediately knocked out when she did. I was thrilled to introduce her at Writers in Raritan and hear her go back to her roots of solo acoustic, with a riveting set of solid, passionate originals.
Her motto is "her fans deserve the best - never disappoint.” Christine and her full band are heading into a string of headline shows at Stone Pony, Mexicali Blues, and American Roots Live, February 7th in support of her second full-length CD, "I’m All In".
Christine joins Writers in Raritan again on December 26.
She wrote in her blog about WiR, and I para-phrase [ ...the moon and the stars align and magic happens. ...a home at DeCiccos for the singers/songwriters of the world. A place, where ego and pretense are left outside, where pure musical love and admiration flow, where songs are in their purest form, as well as the songwriter. ...listened to some amazing artists, and am privileged to meet John Powers(shout out)...also had the pleasure to finally play the same night and hear Aster Pheonyx ...do yourself a favor and check out her music. ...She rocks ...I am so happy to finally hear her. ...she is talented and humble and amazing!!! ]
Well that just about sums it up for Aster Pheonyx (top photo, pic:win), except that last week Aster was absolutely untouchable, incredible and at her very best! She likes Writers in Raritan and we LOVE her. We're all so excited for her.
You really should catch her anytime and anywhere you can.
BTW Aster Pheonyx plays American Roots Live, Thursday December 27.
Which brings us to Sarah Donner the sassy, quirky, incredibly talented songstress whose songs are funny, touching and intelligent. And such a voice has Ms. Donner. We hope to see her again at WiR as soon as possible, too.
Please check the regularly updated performance calendar to watch for Sarah Donner's return.
Well, gotta go get ready for another show. I hope to see you tonight at Writers in Raritan for John Powers, Kerry Anderson, Peter Prasa and Dennis Macarone.
Thursday, December 20 American Roots Live features bluesman "E" all the way from Miami, FLA.
Lot's of great music out there - you just have to know where to look for it. Why not bookmark this page. There's always something great going on at American Roots Live and Writers in Raritan.
Keeping it real,
Ned
Labels: American Roots Live, Aster Pheonyx, Christine Martucci, John Powers, Kerry Anderson, Sarah Donner, Writers in Raritan
