Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!

Greetings of the season! I marvel at how fast the time flies now between Thanksgiving and Christmas and how we fill it with so many tasks, so many things and so much tension. I remember, as a child, how long I seemed to have to wait until Santa came and the wonderful trip to Midtown to shop and see Santa and "going visiting" or entertaining friends and relatives in the days and weeks leading up to Christmas. I know I'm not the only person who is feeling like we've traded some of the magic in return for the madness of our hectic and non-stop lives. I'd like to go back.

In case anyone is in search of great music on their Christmas Eve, the 9:00 Mass at Spiritus Christi is sure to delight with Kathy Welch's choir accompanied by musicians like Bill Tiberio. Then, at 11:00, the "Midnight" Mass begins with the crowd-pleasing Gospel Choir. Come early and hear some of the choir members entertain you with music and carols of the season.

Well, packages await--needing to be wrapped and "bowed" and filled with love. I wish you all a merry, and musical, Christmas and a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.

yours in music,
Tracy

Back from Carlisle

After almost 12 hours in the car and much good luck (given yesterday's weather), we have returned, triumphantly, home! Drew has new music to share (or old stuff), so I'll write about that when I can. Drew is encouraging his sister to sing with me at midnight Mass, but she is balking. Must run for now.

Two Fridays.

It's a crazy-busy time of year for me at work and at home. I did take a little "abuse" for not having posted in a while. So, a quick recap of December 7 and December 14, musically.

December 7th found me at Stucko's, once again, to check out Joe Chiappone and Greg Wachala. Greg had, earlier in the day, performed at the Arts & Cultural Council's legal workshop for musicians and was very well received. It was lovely to hear such good live music in our gallery.

My stay at Stucko's was short because I was headed over to the Immanuel Baptist Church for the Bill Welch Band's annual Advent Concert. The church was packed--standing room only upstairs and down--and the music was just phenomenal. Joe joined me after his Stucko's gig was over, and he was so impressed with their sound. This concert is always a great way to get into the spirit of what Christmas really is. I hope this is a tradition without end. That night, the Bill Welch Band included Bill on keyboard, guitar, percussion and vocals, Bill Tiberio on sax (multiple) , Gene Rogalski on guitar, Fred Welch on drums, Mike Keefe on bass, and Tina Albright, Damaris Rivera and Kathy Welch on vocals. Damaris and Tina sang some beautiful solos with a special request for Tina to sing her rich and soulful rendition of Silent Night. It was hard not to float out of that concert.

On the 14th, I was at Stucko's to hear Joe and Greg and was joined by Tina Albright and Dave Charneski (guitarist for Shinbone Alley) as well as many other friends. The guys played some Christmas music mixed in with their usual jazz standards, and it was great. Greg even had his Santa hat on. Joe, you know what's coming, right? Then Joe and I followed Tina and Dave to the Landing in Fairport to catch Shinbone Alley doing their bluesy-rocky thang. I haven't seen them in a while, and they were rocking the house, for sure. Dave broke out a new (for SBA) Hendrix tune, and the band was tight as usual.

Now, I know where I'm going to try to be next Saturday, the 22nd--the Baird Road Pub to see Northside Johnny with special guest, Bill Tiberio. And then on the 28th, the Bill Tiberio Group plays at Hi Fidelity. I haven't been there since I was so sadly disappointed in the renovations during the Jazz Fest. I mean, the place looks nicer on the inside, but as I said before, the bathrooms got nothing except paint over the graffiti and a bathroom attendant which, honestly, is unnecessary and downright intrusive in a bathroom of that size. Maybe they've improved that since June. I'll let you know!

Check out my cute little seasonal link at the top right of this blog. It was sent to me last year by Tina Albright and is my favorite holiday e-greeting, ever!

yours in music,
Tracy

Opportunity for you Musical Types

Arts & Cultural Council
SPECIAL EVENT
Connect, converse, comprehend . . .


Resources & Opportunities for Musicians and the People Who Work with Them

Margaret Spoddig from ASCAP
Marc Brown from Hiscock & Barclay
Experts talk about industry issues of importance to performers, composers and venue operators—royalty, copyright, contracts and more.

Friday, December 7, 2007 from 1:30 – 5:00 pm
Registration, with light refreshments, begins at 1:00 pm
277 N. Goodman Street
$30 for students; $40 for Arts Council members; $50 all others
RSVP to Tracy Kroft at (585) 473-4000 X 210 or
tkroft@artsrochester.org

This workshop is sponsored by the Arts & Cultural Council for Greater Rochester, Hiscock & Barclay LLP, and the New York State Music Fund, established by the New York Attorney General at Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.

Something fun . . .

in case you didn't see it last year, here it is again.

http://badaboo.free.fr/merryxmas.swf

Enjoy!

And, yes, Charlie Curran was the percussionist . . .

The night I saw the Steve Green Trio at the Little Cafe, I mentioned that a Latin percussionist sat in, but I did not know his name. Now I do. It's Charlie Curran, and I hope I get to see him perform again.
T

A Most Unexpected and Exciting Meeting.

Well, I had something unexpected happen today when a gentleman came into the place where I work and needed to meet with someone regarding membership and its benefits. As we sat and talked, he looked at my card and, realizing that was the same name of the writer of this blog, said, "Hey, you have a blog!" or something like that. Then he went on to say how much he liked it (that alone was enough to make me smile) and that he had emailed me that very day (I didn't see my email until after the meeting) to ask me if I would consider being a volunteer DJ. I was floored! I think he said something like "have a show" which would imply that I'd have to talk. My speaking voice leaves a lot to be desired. My daughter said I'd have to work on talking slower, lower and smoother. That's a tall order!

People think I know a lot about music. I don't know why they think that. When I talk to musicians, record store owners, venue operators, music educators and others in the field, it reinforces (in my mind) how little I really do know. Now, I sure do love music--it's really the core of who I am and it always has been. I can't imagine life without music, without being able to sing (my singing voice is more pleasant--thank God--than my speaking voice). I wish I could play an instrument. I could. I have a beautiful guitar sitting up in my bedroom, and I have the world's best teacher ready to teach me, but I never have the time/make the time to practice. I can practice singing anywhere--in the shower, in the car, at work (when no one is listening), at church, at rehearsals. Well, you get the picture. My instrument is with me wherever I go, and sometimes I even think in song.

My point is that knowing that I know as little as I do, I'm kind of intimidated by the prospect of doing the DJ thing. However, I do have a passion for music. For music in general, for music in Rochester, for trying to get more live music venues in Rochester, for trying to get people off their LazyBoys and out to see the amazing musical talent we have right here in our city. So, if passion would be enough, then I just might do it. I'm going to think a little more about it.

Now for a music review. My son brought me a couple of cuts from an album of his. Rodrigo y Gabriela are a Mexican guitar duo who play fast, rhythmic acoustic guitars. Rodrigo Sánchez, lead guitar, and Gabriela Quintero, rhythm guitar, are from Mexico City, Mexico. They met there while playing in a thrash metal band called "Tierra Acida". (What the hell is "thrash metal," anyway? God, that makes me sound ancient. Forget I said that.) They got frustrated with the music scene there and moved to Europe where they have met with appreciable acclaim. I am ordering their self titled album--Rodrigo y Gabriela-- because I just love it. I believe their style would be considered "flamenco" style guitar. It is, in fact, impossible for me to sit still when I'm listening--dancing at my desk chair, dancing in my car seat--I just couldn't wait to get home, put it on the CD player and dance through the house. It's 7.99 or something on Amazon. How can you go wrong?

yours in music,
Tracy

A Musical Friday After Thanksgiving

So, last night was Joe Chiappone, Greg Wachala and Dave Arenius down at Stucko's, and they were very good as usual. The place was a little dead--must be everyone was home gorging themselves on leftovers--but I was there with the family and friends, and it was cool. There were some other people who trickled in throughout the night and got to hear good music with their traditional Day-After-Thanksgiving Fishfry.

After that, Joe and I went over to the Merchants Grill to "see" Chet Catallo and the Cats. That place is not set up for a band, that's for sure. Either you stand shoulder-to-shoulder with people up front and have your hearing permanently impaired, but you CAN see the band, or you can stand or sit in the back, never see the band, and have less bad stuff happen to your hearing. That was the choice we made.

Local guitar legend, Chet Catallo played hard and loud with his band, The Cats. Though I've only "seen" Chet play twice, I know most of the rest of the Cats--Jimmie Richmond, Ralph Ortiz, Andy Calabrese, Todd East and Steve Curry. I think that's everyone who was smashed into the corner. All of these guys are seasoned and talented musicians who support Chet well, and the band sounded good--if too loud.

It was a lively, drunkish crowd, and they were very much enjoying the band. But for $20 a ticket in a local bar, people should be able to see the band and not be deafened to do so. My opinion, anyway.

Where is the Clarissa Room when you need it?

Drew brought home some CDs for me to hear--Derek Trucks and the John Butler Trio. I am enjoying them. The kid gets to go see good shows, and he has good taste in music! Happy Post-Thanksgiving Shopping Weekend!

yours in music,
Tracy

Steve Greene Trio at the Little Cafe

After we left the Bistro, we went to see the "tres cool" (as Frank DeBlase says) Steve Greene Trio. The usual suspects were there--Steve, Tina Albright, Dave Arenius and Bill Ribas playing and enjoying great jazz standards (with the incomparable Steve Greene twist). Exemplary musicians having fun makes for a delightful evening. Though Tina did not sing my request, everything she did sing was rich and beautiful. Bill and Dave add spice to Steve's original takes on jazz standards. They invited my Friend, Joe, and another friend, Greg Wachala up for a tune, which was "tres cool," too. There was also a guy who was invited up to do some Latin percussion. Well, he was playing bongos, that's Latin, right? Anyway, I didn't get his name, and I'm hoping one of the Trio can let me know.

I just hate not having all the names of all the players when I write about a band.

The Trio is delicious fun to listen to and watch because you can tell they truly enjoy what they're doing and who they're doing it with. Go see them. I think next Saturday is the last one at the Little Cafe for a while.

yours in music,
Tracy

Sonic Duality at the new Bistro 135

So, we went to dinner at the new incarnation of Bistro 135 in East Rochester on Saturday night. We went, mainly, because Sonic Duality was playing. And these young guys (and girl) can play. Unfortunately, we came and left at times that the band was playing, and I couldn't talk to any of them. Perhaps Ben Britton can fill me in on the names of the other players.

Sonic Duality is comprised of Eastman students, I believe, and it shows in their level of musicianship. They are not a "pick-up" band; you can tell they have worked out all the tunes. They've rehearsed. What a concept! Their music is original and innovative. It might not be "dinner music" as much as it is "jazz club music." They deserve an audience that is there to listen to original jazz.

This was not the case at Bistro 135. People were eating and talking and there were three "charming" children running around the tables and squealing with joy at the freedom they had to annoy all of us trying to have a nice, quiet dinner and listen to some jazz.

I would enjoy seeing Ben's group at a place like Riff's (which I do believe has disappeared) or the Clarissa Room--is that back, yet--without the talkers, without the waiters bustling about, without the screaming, running children. And if you like cutting-edge jazz that's not too "out there," then you should find out where Sonic Duality is playing next, and go see them.

And hope that those three children are home in bed.

yours in music,
Tracy

For Any Musicians Who Read My Blog! An Event . . .

Best Practices for Musicians and the People Who Work with Them
Arts & Cultural Council Legal Workshop at 277 N. Goodman Street on
Friday, December 7, 2007 beginning at 1:00 pm

On Friday, December 7, 2007 at the Arts & Cultural Council’s offices at 277 N. Goodman Street, the Legal Workshop series continues with “Best Practices for Musicians and the People Who Work With Them" featuring speakers Margaret Spoddig from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and Marc S. Brown from the Hiscock & Barclay law firm.

Light refreshments will be served. Registration begins at 1:00 pm and the program will run from 1:30 until 5:00. The cost is $30 for students, $40 for Arts Council members, and $50 for all others. Pre-register by calling Tracy Kroft at (585) 473-4000 X 210 or email her at tkroft@artsrochester.org. Payment at the time of registration is requested.

Margaret Spoddig will be discussing issues of importance to performers, composers and venue operators. Currently a Director of Membership in the genre of rock and pop at ASCAP, she recruits music writers and publishers by going out to see the latest bands and communicating with others in the industry. Ms. Spoddig has worked in the recording industry administration at Sony and Universal. Her career began with the inception of her own record label, Devour Records. Marc S. Brown, Esq. is an attorney with the law firm of Hiscock & Barclay, LLP in Rochester, New York. His practice is in the area of commercial litigation, with a particular focus on entertainment law, and he has represented a variety of local, regional and national musical artists, as well as entertainment, recording and publishing companies in contract and licensing matters. He will be talking about contract issues as they pertain to the business of music. Local musician, Greg Wachala, will speak about the challenges of working as a musician in Rochester. Arts Council staff will be speaking about the member benefits of the pro bono legal assistance program and the health insurance program.

This workshop is sponsored by the Arts & Cultural Council for Greater Rochester, Hiscock & Barclay LLP, and the New York State Music Fund, established by the New York Attorney General at Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.
# # #


The Arts & Cultural Council for Greater Rochester is a nonprofit service organization for arts and culture in the 10-county greater Rochester region. Our mission is to strengthen and promote our region’s creative sector through our grant programs, constituent services, and special initiatives and to act as an advocate, planner, and funder to promote artistic vitality and cultural diversity throughout the region. For information about additional programs and services, visit us at www.artsrochester.org or call (585) 473-4000.

A "Spike" in Readership

I was wondering if I had any rise in the number of readers after the link to my blog was put in City Newspaper's Frank DeBlase column last week. Lo and behold, Google Analytics reports a "sharp spike" of one (yes, 1) new reader. (And I know who you are!) And I notice that people are spending a whopping 13 seconds on my blog, and I have an 83.3% "bounce rate." Which basically tells me that people are stumbling upon my blog, looking at it and saying, "Oh, this sucks." and then moving right along.

Now, I really don't believe that everything I write is interesting to everyone, but I also don't believe that everything I write sucks, either. So, I'm wondering how many people are turned off to reading the blog once they see they have to "sign in." The link leads them to the last posts, but to read anything beyond that, they have to have a Google account. I think some people don't want to bother or are concerned that they'll have yet another email account to maintain or that they'll have to put too much information out to Google just to read some lousy blog.

If I decide to continue this, I think I might look around and find a blog spot that does not require readers to sign in. Maybe that will boost my readership!

Or, maybe I should just write better.

yours in music,
Tracy

Invisible . . . Chinchillas

So, I had a lovely conversation today with one of the two, apparently invisible, members of the Steve Greene Trio. (Don't misunderstand--I'm glad that Frank DeBlase spoke so highly of both Steve, who is an amazing guitarist, and Tina Albright, who I think is a soulful and beautiful singer--I just think all four members of the "Trio" should have made the review.) Bill Ribas and Dave Arenius are two very gifted musicians who ought to be recognized and appreciated for their talent and versatility. I have seen Bill play with S.G.T., and I've seen Dave play with my Friend, Joe Chiappone, as well. These guys are cookin' and you should come out to see them at Bodhi's at 9:00 on Friday the 9th (9 on the 9th!) and The Little Cafe on Saturday, the 10th. If my sources are good, Dave will play first (on Friday) with Joe Chiappone and Greg Wachala at 6:30 at Stucko's on Clifford Ave. Check them out. You won't be sorry. I hear the fish fry is great, and I can attest to the fact that the music is first rate. Drinks are pretty cheap, too! There's popcorn.

I understand that Bill Ribas is also a Chinchilla. The Chinchillas are playing, along with the Beat Beggars, at the Cottage Hotel in "beautiful downtown Mendon" on the 17th of November at 9:00pm. I'm hoping to be there. I've never seen a real, live Chinchilla playing a guitar, and I have a friend who is a Beat Beggar. It should be most fun!

yours in music
Tracy

A Review by Frank DeBlase

I'm copy/pasting a review by Frank DeBlase from City Newspaper because I want to be sure that all the people who read my blog (what, are there three of you?) to see this review about the Steve Greene Trio, and specifically what he had to say about my friend, Tina Albright. My only criticism of the review is that he neglected to mention the names of the other two players and say anything about them.

So, here's what Frank DeBlase had to say:

"Me and the birthday girl spent last Saturday night at the Little Theatre Cafe. And man alive, this place has gone far and beyond the afterthought it once was. And I'll tell you why: it's jazz cats like The Steve Green Trio.

First of all, the trio has four members. That alone is tres cool. Greene comps and chops and trills and twangs as the band stirs the batter. Slithering seductively on top is Tina Albright, a statuesque blonde with a smoky contralto. This isn't a blues group, nor is Albright singing the blues, but the way she works the mic, stretching and playing with the lyrics (almost as casually as Greene) it draws upon some of the blues' simultaneous joy and despair.

The joint was jammed as folks hovered in a holding pattern waiting to swoop as soon as a seat opened up. The cappuccino machine hissed, cutlery clinked, people slurped, and a four-piece trio casually played some of the sweetest acoustified jazz you'll hear anywhere. There are moments like this all over town. I was lucky to stumble upon this one. I hope it happens again...soon."

Congratulations, "tres cool" Trio! I think they are playing at Bodhi's (Goodman Street in the Village Gate) on Friday night, November 9th--at least that's what it said under "Gigaroos" in Steve's website. Perhaps I'll see you there. By the way, come out and see Joe Chiappone and Greg Wachala along with Dave Arenius at Stucko's on Clifford Avenue (across from Savoia's) (from 6:30 to 8:30) first on Friday the 9th.

yours in music,
Tracy

An Email from the RIJF.

I received an email today from the Rochester International Jazz Fest regarding their club passes going on sale soon and the price of those passes. I don't know what possessed me, but I wrote a return email about the price increase. (The Club Pass has risen another $6.00.) I never thought anyone would read my email, let alone respond. But respond they did. And quickly, too. Here it is:

"There is a $6 increase this year due to Increased number of artists (over 100 groups), increased number of venues (an additional 18 performance), increase in the cost of artist fees. In the end it's still a reduced overall cost per show. We would suggest you don't buy a pass of you go to less than 6 sets of music, just pay a single entry charge. It's a VALUE pass and perhaps the cheapest pass ticket in the world."

I don't know how to format this here, but the word "value" that you see in CAPS was not only in caps, but bold and underlined. I think the writer thought I was some kind of an idiot who didn't understand the definition of the word "value." That pissed me off.

So I responded.

"I've done the Club Pass for three years, and I understand the concept of VALUE; but it's only a value if you can get into at least five to seven shows (depending on the artist) that you want to see. And it's not a value if you stand in line for an hour+ and then don't get into a performance that you wanted to see. Then, having missed that one, you might have also missed another, second and/or third, choice. This was my experience, multiple times, last year. It was extremely frustrating. I will probably not buy a pass this year based on that. If there is a show I want to see, I'll just "pay as I go" and get there more than two hours early because two hours early was not enough at Max at Eastman Place. Not only did I wait, no one bothered to tell all of us waiting in that line that we didn't have a shot at getting in. If they had, we would have at least had a slim chance to find another show to see. I was two hours early for Eldar, and was not told the place was at SRO. By the time I went up to the volunteer table to ask what was going on, I was too late for a second choice at Kilbourn. That is not value.

It is also not a value if the sound system sucks (Harro East). That needs to be addressed.

This is a good festival. It is cost-prohibitive for many people. It has also become a "scene" more than a place to appreciate good music. And, sadly, the thousands of people in the streets for those nine days do not translate to lots of people at the other excellent music shows all over the city the rest of the year."

This time, there was no response.

I do believe that this is a good festival, but I also believe that it is cost-prohibitive to many people. And it is difficult for people who can't take the week off of work to get to the venues in time to be first in line to get in to see the shows that they want to.

I do also wonder why none of these thousands of people populate the little venues we have all over this city for jazz artists (and other excellent musical talent) over the course of the other 356 days of the year. Maybe these festival promoters should be promoting the available music throught our city all year long instead of just for the nine days of their own festival.

Okay, I think my rant is over.

yours in music,
tracy

Another One Bites the Dust.

Sadly, I report that I heard last night that McCool's is no longer a music room. It's a sports bar. They just couldn't make a go of it bringing excellent musicians into a beautiful venue in Geneva. If only they had put it in Rochester. Just maybe it could have lasted--at least longer than nine months.

So sad . . .

Listening . . . watching . . . thinking . . .

My favorite band played last night at a fundraiser at a beautiful winery on Seneca Lake, Ventosa. It's a nice place for an event, and it's not so very far away.

Anyway, I was in the far back corner of the room most of the night, and could barely see my favorite guitarist, but occasionally the dancers would part, and I could see his face while he played. He has the best "guitar face" ever.

I had a lot of time to sit and ponder music and it's affect on people. I wondered, as I watched the couples take to the dance floor for an old, slow R&B type tune, if they were remembering that tune from years ago, and who they were dancing with the first time they heard that song. When they played "Wonderful Tonight" I was brought instantly back to my college boyfriend's living room when he sang it to me (along with Clapton, of course) for the very first time. Listening to Joe as he played it and watching his face as he soloed was exponentially better. But just the same, music and memories are inseparable in my life, and I imagine that's the same for everyone. I can't hear a Rolling Stones tune without thinking about the fact that I sat in the cold and rain in Rich Stadium with about 100,000 other people back in 1981 for my very first concert--the Stones, with Journey and George Thoroghgood opening. If I remember correctly, Journey played in the rain, George brought out the sun, and by the time the Stones took the stage, my date had regained consciousness. It was a while before I went to another concert; and never with him again.

I remember that during my whole first pregnancy, I played Kenny G (taste evolves and matures, okay? I was 25) all the time in the car and at home. After Drew was born, if he was fussy, I'd put Kenny G on, and he quieted. It was familiar and soothing. That was cool. I remember that I used to sing certain songs to him every night when I was pregnant with my daughter, and after she was born and when she was fussy (which was all the time), I would sing those same songs, and it was calming to her.

Some of my favorite childhood memories involve taking walks in the woods with my dad when he used to sing Scarlet Ribbons to me. I loved that song. I can still hear his voice singing it; though he hasn't sung it, probably, since Caroline was little. I loved going to my uncle's house when he would bring down his guitar and their whole family would sing. Those were the best times. He used to get out his banjo and sing a song I haven't thought of in forever--"My Ding-a-Ling"--and it would annoy the heck out of my grandmother. Totally tame, even thirty-five years ago, but grandma would get all in a fuss. My uncle used to take his guitar to the Rochester Psych Center and perform for the patients. They thought he was Johnny Cash. I've sung there three times with my gospel choir. They love us. One guy, Daniel, thought I was someone else, too, but I won't go into that here! It's fun to see the patients get into the music and have their spirits lifted. I'm sure that's why my uncle did it for so many years.

Music is an integral part of our psyches. We sing, we play, we listen--when we're happy, when we're sad, when we just need that boost. Music is always there for us if we want it. How lucky are we?

yours in music,
Tracy

And so . . . Pandora.

My daughter introduced me to Pandora, and now I'm enjoying the ability to create my own "radio station" dedicated exclusively to a particular artist's style. On my Chuck Loeb station, I get him and others with a like style; for instance, Larry Carlton. On my Tower of Power station, I get them, EW&F, Marvin Gaye, etc.

I'm probably the last person on earth to hear about Pandora, which is part of the Music Genome Project, but this is how it works. You put in the name of an artist you like, and the first song that plays is that artist's. Then you have the opportunity to click a thumbs up or down (do you like it, or don't you) on the image, and the same goes on for each artist who plays after that. Your fave will play every few songs, but in between you might find someone of a similar style whom you've never heard of and really like. You tailor your playlist accordingly. The account goes wherever you go with a computer, so I have my Pandora at home as well as at work. It's fun.

And at least it's something for me to write about.

yours in cybermusic,
Tracy

As delightful as I'd expected it to be . . .

Last night I listened to four exemplary musicians make beautiful music and have a blast. Saxophonist Bill Tiberio was joined by Joe Chiappone on guitar, Geoff Smith on bass and Dave Cohen on drums for an evening of jazz standards and some funkier, edgy tunes as well. From Mercy, Mercy, Mercy to My Romance to Misty to Take the A Train to When I Fall in Love to Kenny Garrett's Sing A Song of Song and The Chicken (definitely not to be confused with The Chicken Dance) by Jaco Pastorius--this group was on the money. Each tune was better than the one before. These guys should definitely play together again . . . and soon. When they do, I'll be there and hopefully you will, too.

yours in music,
Tracy

Has it really been over a month?

I could have sworn that I'd posted something in late September, but I guess not. Sorry. Still trying to figure out if there's any point in keeping this blog going. Maybe I need to tweak the direction a bit and get more disciplined about writing. But if I don't go out to see/hear any music, then there's nothing for me to write.

However, I did go out last night. Who would have thought that a place with a name like "Stucko's" which looks like a garage and is attached to a business named "Squidd's Live Bait" would have excellent jazz music? Well, I would, because I knew that Joe Chiappone, Greg Wachala and Dave Arenius were playing there last night. A trio comprised of two guitars (Joe and Greg) and an upright bass (Dave) doing jazz standards--extremely well--and having fun at the same time. They played for two hours with a short break, and the time just flew by. These guys, besides being technical experts at their instruments, have a ton of soul and make a very sweet sound together. I'll be sure to let you know when they are playing together again. I hope it's soon. I do let Greg at Jazz@Rochester know, and he includes them in his comprehensive list of what's happening in Rochester's jazz world every week.

Tonight, I am lucky enough to see my two favorite musicians performing together--Joe Chiappone and Bill Tiberio. They will be playing with Dave Cohen and Geoff Smith at RIT's Fireside Lounge in the Student Alumni Union building. This is part of RIT's Bricktown Weekend event, therefore, I don't know if it's open to the general public or if it's just for RIT students, parents, alumni, etc. But it's been a dream of mine to see Joe and Bill play together; I'm very excited. I'll let you all know how wonderful it was afterward.

As an aside, I think the age of email and texting has totally corrupted my sense of grammatical correctness, proper syntax and usage. I used to be, as my son called me, "The Grammar Police," and quite confident in my language skills, but now I second guess myself all the time. So, if you find any errors, be sure to let me know!

yours in music,
Tracy

And my son turns 19 today . . .

how did that ever happen so quickly? Happy Birthday, Drew! I love you.

prime time funk

Sunday night at the Center Stage amphitheatre in Perinton, prime time funk hit the stage and kept the crowd happy. The musicianship of the members of prime time funk has always been exemplary. The originals, Rafael Ortiz, Jimmy Richmond, Dave Cohen and Vince Ercolamento, lead a group of musicians who are tight, professional, and soulfully musical--a pleasure to hear and see! I look forward to their rare public appearances, and they never disappoint. Their own compositions are well-written and well-arranged and a delight to hear. Their covers of Tower of Power, Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind & Fire and many others are point-on. This is the best big band in Rochester. See them when you can.

yours in music,
Tracy

Where'd He Get This Stuff?

So, I'm sitting here listening to one of the mixes my son made before he went back to college. There's this Hendrix stuff--Bold As Love and two or three others--some I know and some I don't. Where did he hear these, I wonder? It puts me in this mood--I didn't hear alot of Hendrix until I was 18. He's 18. Where did the time go?

There's something about music that can, sometimes, just reach into my chest and squeeze my heart . . . whether it's the notes or the lyrics or the memories evoked . . . music's always been the key to my emotional state. In the lyrics I hear, I don't know, messages? That makes me sound like a freak, but I think it's true of anyone for whom music touches their soul. And in the instrumentation, well, I can be lifted to heights of happiness and dropped to lows of sadness. This is true of most people, I assume. Sometimes, though, the same note in a given song can lift me to happiness or make me cry. Is this just peculiar to me? I think not.

Anyway, back to my son. My heart aches missing him--especially when I listen to these songs that he's picked for his mixes. It is such a personal thing to put music on a disc for yourself and to share with others. You are using music to speak. It puts one in a position of vulnerability close to that of singing for others. Here you are saying, "Yeah, I like this stuff. It speaks for me and to me." I don't know. For me, that's a big thing.

yours in music,
Tracy

This is Important--Credit Greg at Jazz@Rochester

I lifted this right from Greg's most excellent blog, Jazz@Rochester. There was no reason to try to rewrite it because it is perfect as is. It is extremely important to keep 90.1 on the air; it's a great station that we are lucky to have here in Rochester. If you can get out to this event, do it. I'm going to try.

Thanks, Greg.

"Tickets are now on sale for An Evening of Wine and Jazz to benefit local jazz radio station Jazz90.1 takes place on Thursday September 20th from 7 to 10 p.m. at The Memorial Art Gallery in Rochester. The event includes wine tasting from three area wineries, great food, a silent auction, and live jazz from Rochester band DubbleStuff, as well as Bob Sneider, Mike Melito and Phil Flanigan.

Tickets are $25.00 each and can be purchased by calling 585-966-2660, or 585-966-5299. Only a limited number will be sold. Jazz90.1 is one of the last 24/7/365 jazz stations in the country. Although owned by the Greece Central School District, the station must raise all operating funds annually through member and business donations, and fundraisers. For more information, visit www.jazz901.org or call (585) 966-2660."

yours in music,
Tracy

Garden Vibes at George Eastman House

Tonight, Frank DeBlase's band, The White Devils, will open for the Nashville-based Los Straitjackets for this week's Garden Vibes concert at the George Eastman House. Some of the members of the Spiritus Christi Gospel Choir will be backing DeBlase on his last tune, Dead Man's Blues. I'm a little nervous; but I'm sure it will be fun.

The White Devils, as much as I've heard of them, seem to have a rockabilly feel--which I kind of like. I was a big fan of the Stray Cats Back In The Day, and I think they are considered rockabilly. I haven't heard much about Los Straitjackets. I was on their website briefly, and they sound pretty guitar-driven. I love guitar in every genre--rock, jazz, bluegrass, classical, etc. I especially love it when a certain person is playing it. (And you know who you are.)

Anyway, I'm planning on sticking around and listening to them. Perhaps I'll have an interesting post after the night is through. At the very least, I will finally have gotten to see the Ansel Adams exhibit because entrance to the House is free with admission to the concert.

Hope to see you there.
yours in music,
Tracy

I've heard whispers in the wind . . .

that the Clarissa Room is about to open under new management. I got this today from a reliable source. A Kodak chemist with "excellent business acumen" (good, maybe that means he/she can keep it up and running and in the black) has bought the place and is awaiting his liquor license. I hope he likes good music. (And by "good music," I do mean the music that I like, of course!)

You'll know more when I know more.

yours in music,
Tracy

I Haven't Posted in So Long . . .

that I forgot my password. Pathetic. I haven't had the time to see too much music out there this summer, but here's a quick wrap-up of what I have seen.

July 27th, I went with many Perintonites to the Perinton Park Summer Fest celebration. It's mostly for families with small children; but, happily, it offers one of my favorite bands in town, the Bill Welch Band, every year. Bill Welch on vocals, keyboard, and guitar is a soulful musician who leads this band in new directions all the time. They get funkier and funkier with Bill Tiberio playing sax, Gene Rogalski on guitar, Mike Keefe on bass, Fred Welch on drums. This day, Tina Albright took time out from her schedule to join them for a few tunes--always a delight. They indulged me in my two requests--Phat (a jazzy, funky tune that they should get into a recording studio and lay down) and Why Don't You Ask (one of my all-time favorite tunes of any performer, any genre, anywhere).

August 9th, I saw a version of the Bill Tiberio Group at the Corn Hill Gazebo. This variation included Tiberio, Tony Castronova on guitar and vocals, Mike Keefe on bass, and Fred Welch on drums. The group cooked on tunes I've never heard Bill do before. It would have been most enjoyable had I not had to leave and come back twice and then, ultimately, leave early.

August 16th saw me at Nickel Creek at the Harro East Ballroom. I was really psyched about this show because I saw them last year at the Water Street and they were amazing. Apparently, this is their "farewell for now" tour. Sad. They are so young with such a good sound between them--despite the sucky sound system at the Harro East. I was in the balcony and had a hard time understanding any words to tunes that I didn't know. Fiona Apple joined them. She's something else altogether. Nice voice. Strange songs. And dancing . . . did you ever see that episode of Seinfeld in which Elaine dances? Well, let's just say that Elaine and Fiona could be sisters! The one tune she did that I loved was Patsy Cline's "Walkin' After Midnight." It was lovely.

We heard most of the tunes I know including Sarah Watkin's "Anthony" and Thiel's "Set Me Up With One of Your Friends" both of which I consider added bonuses. We left before the end because it was hot and the audience was one of the rudest I've encountered once again. Talk, talk, talking constantly throughout the performance. And the tickets were not cheap, so it kind of pissed me off. Alot. What's wrong with audiences these days? This was not a coffee shop, a bar, a festival--this was a concert. So shut up, already, and listen. That's what I wanted to say; instead, we just left.

I've been giving thought to whether I should keep this blog going or not. I was recently asked where there was live music played around town--i.e. where are the venues? And I almost said, "there freakin' aren't any." But I did keep it together and list a few. But I had to lament the passing of the Clarissa Room, Milestones, the Montage as it used to be, etc. Most of the musician friends I have tell me that the majority of the gigs on their schedules are private parties. Bummer for me. Bummer for all of us.

So, I'm thinking that if I continue to post, I might review CDs that I hear, in addition to live music. I did just receive, finally, Andreas Petterson's CD of Gershwin tunes that he played at the Reformation Lutheran Church at the RIJF this past June. It's a lovely recording--worth the wait. At Greg Bell's suggestion, I recently purchased Bill Frisell's Good Dog, Happy Man but I haven't had time to get into it, yet. I took my son back to college last weekend and listened to some mixes he put together--a very cool and diverse set of tunes that I enjoyed very much. Except the Radiohead--not a big fan. Robert Randolph; Smokey Robinson; Modeski, Martin and Wood; Marvin Gaye, Phish, some French and Spanish musicians, and much more. He's got a great ear; and I'm keeping those discs--sorry, Drew!

That's all for now. Hopefully, it won't be so long before I hear some live music worth posting about.

yours in music,
Tracy

I Know, I Know . . . It's About Damned Time.

Yes, I've been remiss--not seeing any music, not writing at all. Not much to say, I guess. I did, however, finally catch Sonic Duality (Trio) Quartet last night at the Flat Iron Cafe. Sadly, we walked in halfway through their last tune (before the jam session). I really don't have a true sense of the band, so I guess that means I'll just have to go see them again. And, from the little I heard, it would be my pleasure.

I got to meet Ben's lovely wife and beautiful baby and had a nice chat with his wife while she let me hold the baby! Ben was talking to my friend, Joe.

I thought that Ben Britton, leader of the band, played his sax with a nice, rich mellowness. "He made good note choices and had nice phrasing" (this from my excellent musician friend, Joe). The bass player (whose name I will get next time along with the two band members who were not there) was a "strong, solid player." (Again, from the expert.) Last night, two of their regular players, the drummer and the guitarist, were not there. The substitute drummer was competent. I've heard her before, almost a year ago, and I do think that she has grown technically in the past year. She didn't do anything too exciting, no interesting "fill" but she kept the time and looked like she felt good doing her thing. The keyboard player, well, he just kind of blended in to the background.

I am anxious to hear the band when all the regulars are in the house. Having just heard half of a tune, I think that they have a very edgy, Ike Sturm sound without being too avant garde for little old me. I look forward to hearing them again.

I also heard the Respect Duo earlier in the evening at the BopFest. They were a little to avant garde for me. They might have been excellent musicians, but I kind of lose interest when there is no melody at all.

I'm hoping to catch Ryan Shaw next weekend at the Big City Music Fest. I imagine it will be absolutely packed. I'll have to go early.

yours in music,
Tracy

No music this weekend, sorry!

I'll try to do better next weekend.

Last night was ice cream only, and tonight was a seat on the beach at Marge's on the lake at SeaBreeze. When the sun is setting, the stars are coming out, the breeze is a warrm and gentle caress, and you can hear the sound of the water hitting the sand, it's almost like being someplace other than Rochester. What a beautiful night. There were even fireworks off to the west.

Tracy

Because This is My Blog

I can write what I want, and I don't want to write about music today. There is something different I want to write about today.

Everyone knows that five young ladies from my town, Fairport, NY, were killed in a car accident earlier this week. These were five young women who had just graduated from high school and were poised to start the next chapters of their lives. We just didn't know what those chapters really were going to be.

As a parent of a son who graduated last year, I can imagine that on the Tuesday night after their Thursday graduation, these girls' parents were doing the same things that I was doing a year ago: planning a party, looking at photos, going to their children's friends' parties, preparing lists for Bed, Bath & Beyond for the children's dorm room needs, thinking about how hard it was going to be to let go of that last hug when we dropped them off at school, wondering how we were going to get along without their smiling faces around the house, asking ourselves how the time could have gone this fast, and being proud that our children were about to start new chapters in their lifes' stories.

When I was alone at night last summer, I would reminisce and then cry my eyes out "pre-missing" him long before he even left. But the day we moved him in to his dorm, I held it together like a champ. I didn't cry until I was alone back at home. I couldn't wait for Parents' Weekend (which I'm sure he was dreading!) and Christmas break. I knew I would be seeing him then.

Those parents of those five girls--Bailey, Hannah, Katie, Meredith and Sara--will not be going to Parents' Weekend, will not have them home for Christmas break. They have to deal with the fact that they know they will not be seeing them again. And that breaks my heart.

Every morning since I heard what happened, I think of those parents awakening. I think about how for the first half-second of consciousness, they don't remember that their whole world has changed. Then, I can imagine the feeling of a weight settling on their chests, their hearts aching, the feeling of emptiness. And it breaks my heart.

A friend said tonight that our high school will always be remembered as the school that lost five graduates in one night. I hope that our school, and our town, can be remembered for the love that has poured forth for those five girls we lost. The school community, as well as the town, has been rocked by this. But we are strong; we can get through and, most importantly, we can help the parents get through.

And I believe we have five new angels watching over us who will help us on this path.

Yes, I Took One of Those Quizzes

Because it was on Jack Lavere's MySpace. What Kind of Wine Are You? was the quiz, and like with most of those, there were questions in which I was torn between two answers that equally "defined" me. So, I took it twice, and the answers did not surprise me. Here they are.

You are a Pinot Grigio
Origin: Italy, Oregon, France
Serve With: Mild cheeses, strongly flavoured cheeses, appetizers, dips, shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, mussels, seafood with cream sauces, grilled fish, salmon, pasta with cream or red sauces, poultry, Asian food, pork/veal
Taste Description: Medium to full bodied, neutral aromas

You are a Cabernet Sauvignon
Origin: California, Australia, France
Serve With: Strongly flavoured cheeses, pasta with red sauce, lamb, game, beef, chocolate dessert
Taste Description: Medium to full bodied, blackcurrant flavour

So, not exactly a music post, but fine wine is quite often linked with music, especially jazz so . . .

yours in music (and wine, I guess),
Tracy

We'll Call This One "Hanging With Gene"

Went to the Strathallan last night to see Gene Bertoncini. What an incredible talent! His music was simply beautiful to me. The band who backed him included all heavy hitters as well. Unfortunately, the only name I could hear was Bill Dobbins (who was backing him on piano). Gene wanted to know if he "sounded alright." Alright?! He sounded pretty damned good to everyone in the room--even the people who talked through the show. More on that later. Back to Gene. He hoped that he'd been good enough for Bill. That's, apparently, his level of modesty. He was talking about being nervous for this show he's slated to do in November, how he wasn't practicing enough. Wow. I was, of course, impressed with his talent, but also how down-to-earth he was and how modest. It was cool hanging out with him. He asked about my family, talked about regular stuff, talked with the guys about music, musicianship, past shows, life in general.

We almost didn't stay for that last set because we were tired and the room was so noisy. Gene and the band were set up in the middle of the front wall of the center room--dining room on the left almost completely separated by walls, and the bar on the right. There was an undercurrent of noise coming from the bar, but it was mostly manageable until the roar that happened every so often. I thought they were watching some important sporting event, but the hostess said the roars were most likely due to shot-drinking enthusiasm. It was the people in the room watching Gene--people I assumed were actually there to hear him play--whose talking was so troublesome. Cell Phone Woman on the sofa--Gene shot her a couple of looks, and I think it finally dawned on her to leave the room to continue her call--this after at least 10 minutes of talking (loudly). Stupid? Discourteous? Rude? Clueless? All of the above? Then there was the table of four behind me. 60-somethings, well-dressed, looking fairly educated, but obviously complete idiots when it came to what is acceptable in a social situation in which a performance is being enjoyed by others. The two women blatted loudly and shrilly throughout the whole set, and one of the guys insisted on keeping time by clapping now and again. I did shoot them a couple of withering (I hope) looks, and they would quiet for a moment, but not for good. Gene shot them and Cell Phone Woman a couple of pointed looks, but it did no good. I walked up to him after the last set was over, the band was packed up and gone and he was picking up his stuff. I told him how wonderful he sounded, and how embarrassed I was at all the talking. He was so gracious about it, but we did talk about it afterward and it does bother him. None of us at the table--Gene, Bill Blind, Joe Chiappone, nor I--can understand why people behave in this discourteous way. I noticed fellow bloggers (big-league bloggers, at that) Greg, Ken and Seth there last night--sitting, listening, appreciating, NOT talking. I'm going to have to ask Greg if he notices this at every event he goes to or if the talkers just follow me!

So, for all of you who want to hear some beautiful music, go see Gene Bertoncini tonight at the Strath from 8:30 until 12:30. For those who want a little more rock in their Saturday night, join me at Six Pockets to hear Joe Chiappone, Dave Profetta, Dick Caleri and Ken Kahler (Frontline) at 9:30. Sonic Duality is playing at The Flat Iron Cafe at 9:00--some day I'm going to see those guys. Gene Bertoncini is going to be playing a concert at Nazareth College on Tuesday night. When I have more info, I'll post it.

yours in music,
Tracy

Wait. Do my eyes deceive me?

Is it really Gene Bertoncini playing both this Friday and Saturday nights at the Strathallan? I'm there on Friday. Also, I received a very nice email from a musician who actually reads my blog. Go figure. Anyway, his name is Ben and he has a jazz band called Sonic Duality, and they will be playing this Saturday night at 9:00 at the Flat Iron Cafe. I would love to be able to see him, but I have a previous engagement. Next time, though, for sure. Go out and support this local musician!

'til next time,
Tracy

Did The Fat Lady Sing?

I didn't see one, but I think it's all over all the same.

I did see two ladies sing--Nancy Donnelly and a local favorite, Tina Albright. Neither were fat, but both could sing, that's for sure. I missed a couple other singing ladies: Catherine Russell and Esperanza Spalding, who one friend told me was her all-time favorite RIJF performer! Too bad I missed that.

So, let's see, what can I say in this 2007 RIJF post mortem that isn't being said by many others? I'm not sure that I have anything unique to say about this iteration of the Jazz Fest. Everyone who was there had highs and lows, favorites and disappointments, joys and gripes. The thing about music that is so beautiful is that it is enjoyed subjectively and independently. What I loved, someone else hated and vice versa . . . and that's okay. Props to Mark Iacona and John Nugent for bringing in such a wide variety of talent--there was certainly something for everyone (if you could get in).

The thing that is so beautiful about a festival in Rochester is the number and variety of people who come out and walk the streets enjoying the sights, sounds, smells and tastes. The good news is that the crowd (as I experienced it) was diverse, happy and friendly. The bad news was that people thought that a jazz fest was a good place to bring their toddlers in strollers, double-wides and wagons. When your toes get mowed over, your heels clipped, or you trip over a stroller trying to make your way through the crowds, you really question some people's common sense (or lack thereof). I liked seeing kids who were old enough to enjoy the music, but toddlers on leashes and in huge strollers didn't belong there. Can you say, "BABYSITTER"?

I have to touch on the experience of getting shut out of a show. I do understand that it's first come, first served. However, not everyone can get out of work early (or take vacation) to get to a 4, 5, or 6 o'clock show. And I do think that if we are going to continue to utilize intimate venues, we need to consider adding more venues or adding more shows to each venue. And, if the volunteer staff knows that the venue is full, there should be a policy of telling those still standing in line so they can make a decision to remain and hope that people leave or go get in another line. I wasted time and missed out on seeing other things because I wasn't made aware that the venue (Max) was full. (Twice.)

Additionally, many people I know (who happen to be musicians) had a lot of gripes with the quality of the sound systems in the venues. The Harro East had big problems for the first couple of days, Max of Eastman place is acoustically difficult.

High points. I've mentioned Jonathan Kreisberg before. If he comes back, I'll be getting tickets for that show! Benny Golson, what a gem! He's Jazz History 101 in the flesh. Randy Brecker and his band were amazing, and they were gracious enough to sign our passes after the show. He chatted with my friend and I for quite a few minutes. I was impressed. The Rick Holland/Evan Dobbins Little Big Band was a tremendously talented group of local musicians. I can't wait to see them out again. They could more than hold their own in any city, any jazz fest, any situation. We are so lucky to live in a city with such incredible talent. Right here in Rochester!! Go out and see these people the other 51 weeks out of the year. I should have gone to see the Ilmiliekki Quartet at the church instead of Bonerama. Nothing against the trombone group--they were loud and fun. But I heard, after the fact, how wonderful this quartet was, and when am I ever going to get the chance to see them again? I'd probably have the chance to see Bonerama again before I would them. Too bad. On Friday, with no plan, we ended up seeing Andreas Pettersson after a friend texted us and told us we should. Thank goodness for friends. He ended up being my favorite performer of the whole fest. On Saturday, I saw Bill Frisell. After the first song which was weird and, as my son put it, "kind of hokey," he redeemed himself, and I really ended up enjoying him.

I need to learn how to see/hear more during the fest. Next year, I plan on taking a two vacation hours each day--go in at 10:00 (so I can finally make it to one of those jam sessions--I'm so bummed I missed the one with Pettersson) and get off at 4:00 so I can actually make it into a 6:15 show at Max's and not be shut out. Next year, maybe I'll be tech-savvy enough to podcast or at least moblog a la Greg at Jazz@Rochester whom I finally met after the Frisell show. Greg is cool: I was so glad to finally meet him. And, Greg, I loved your shirt--you were way cool and totally jazz, man. (Of course, that is what I expected from a man with an incredible jazz music blog like Greg has.) http://www.jazzrochester.com/

Well, as a friend and I were discussing, I'm kind of in withdrawal. I miss wandering the streets of Rochester with lots of other people. I miss my cookies at Java's. I miss the music, the commeraderie, the aching feet (well, not really), the feeling of living in a vital and vibrant city, the running into people all over the place and the feeling that I got every night--the feeling of being on vacation. Great music, beautiful weather, fun people--it sure did feel like a vacation to me. I can't wait until next year!

Don't be afraid to comment and let me hear your reflections on this year's RIJF!

yours in music,
Tracy

Still recovering . . .

I'll post a Post-Jazz Fest Wrap Up very soon. I have to organize my thoughts, and right now my brain is tired. There were highs and lows; more highs. I heard some great music and wished I'd gotten the chance to hear more. Strategizing for next year begins now!

Back soon,
Tracy

Rick Holland/Evan Dobbins Little Big Band

There's nothing little about these guys--big sound and big talent. What a great show at Hi Fidelity with a special guest singer Nancy Donnelly. Dean Keller killed on bari--his solo on Nightlights was so beautiful that I had tears, and Evan Dobbins is a monster trombone player. I can't wait to hear these guys again.

A quick peak in at Bonerama--a loud, rollicking, New Orleans party band--I sat way too close to the speakers. Considering that I could still hear them loud and clear in the merchandise tent, I feel I made the right choice to take off and save my hearing. I did like them, but one song was enough for me tonight.

I went back to Hi Fidelity on my way to my car and bought one of Nancy Donnelly's CDs. She was gracious enough to sign it for me. It was a good night at the Jazz Fest.

yours in music,
Tracy

Well, SOMEBODY Got a New Effects Pedal.

That SOMEBODY was John Scofield, and he used it to the hilt. Wow. There was one pretty tune (an actual tune, not a cacophony of organ screeches and weird pedal sounds) that was called Flower Power. That was nice. If the whole concert could have been like that, I would have liked it very much.

I had no idea how great Jean Luc-Ponty and his band would be. They got three standing ovations (okay, a little much, but they were absolutely excellent), and just blew everyone away. All the band members were wonderful, energetic, and innovative players. What a delight!

Dear Mr. Nugent and Mr. Iacona . . .

Can I get my money back for my Club Pass if I can't get into the events I want to after waiting an hour and a half and not being told the venue was full thereby eliminating any chance I might have had to get into a different show at a different venue?

And Mr. Nugent and Mr. Iacona, is there any reason why people like Eldar couldn't play a 6:00, 8:00 and 10:00 show? They only play for an hour anyway, why not add a show? If the venues are not sufficient to hold the number of people who want to see these performers, perhaps you might need to add another show or two.

I was frustrated to the point of tears tonight after the second time I've tried to see an event at Max's and waited in line only to find out after it was too late to go anywhere else that the venue was full. When I walked up tonight to see what was going on, there were people behind me all the way to the corner. When the "staff" told me that it was full, I said, (once again) "You mean we're waiting line for nothing?" And he said, "No, people might leave and then you can get in." Someone else asked, "Do all these people waiting in line know that it's full and they likely won't get in?" And the "staff" nodded yes. I said, "No they don't; I didn't and the people behind me sure don't." That's what's making me the most angry; have the decency to let us know the venue is full so that we can make a decision to go somewhere else while we still might have a chance to get in instead of letting us stand there waiting for nothing.

yours in jazz fest frustration,
Tracy

"The Music Never Ends"

Ah, Benny Golson. lovely words . . .

Okay, Days 2 and 3 of the 2007 RIJF were a mix; and, of course, best laid plans . . . That's one thing about the Jazz Fest, sometimes your plans go awry and it's a bummer; sometimes your plans go awry and it's a blessing! So Saturday night was supposed to be Stephane Wrembel, Ryan Shaw, Los Lonely Boys and Randy Brecker. What it turned out to be was most of Cornelio Tutu (he was good and worth seeing, but nowhere near the level of Jonathan Kresiberg of the night before); one song of the Mambo Kings: a horrific 45 seconds of the Shuffle Demons (yes, I've heard they've got talent, but all I heard was screaming): and an hour-and-a-half wait in line to see Randy Brecker( Randy Brecker Quintet including his wife Ada Rovatti on saxophone, Steve Johns on drums, Steve La Spina on bass, David Kokoski on piano and Brecker on trumpet). That I missed Ryan Shaw was a bummer (especially after hearing a musician tell us how awesome Ryan Shaw's pipes were), BUT missing Randy Brecker would have been a huge mistake. As my friend, (a fiendishly great guitar player, himself) said, "That piano player is off the hook." Brecker was great, but entertainment-wise, Kokoski stole the show.

Would have loved to have joined Greg Bell (Rochester@Jazz) at the Crowne Plaza, but I'd been up and going (I was Maid-of-Honor in a wedding) since 6:00am and practically asleep in the car on the way home.

Day 3 didn't go exactly as planned, either. We were going to see Lalo, but got there too late, so we saw some of Revision. They were entertaining and "had a nice groove" as my friend said. Then we wandered up to Jazz street, availed ourselves of some goodies from Java's and then headed to the Harro East with some trepidation over the reports we'd heard of the sound system problems. But we wanted to see Benny Golson. And I'm so glad we did. The place was packed, and the sound system problems seemed to have been worked out. It's still a cavernous, acoustically challenging venue, but at least last night there were sound guys working the mixing tables and checking things, etc.

Benny Golson was wonderful. He had a story before every song. He opened with words about how music is the one thing that goes on forever. No musician ever stops learning. "The music never ends" is what he said. He also remarked that Hank Jones said that music was like the horizon--it just went on forever. When Golson talked about the first time he met his friend John (when Golson was 16 and John was 18), he was talking about Coltrane. How cool that was. He talked about a time they were ditched from a gig and his wise mother consoled both of them with a hug and some words about how someday, those guys (who ditched them) wouldn't be able to afford to pay Golson and Coltrane to play with them, and those guys would still be playing for $8 a gig. Mama always knows.

There was something about this man--I guess it was that his playing was as sweet and soulful as the best I've heard. Whatever it was, he brought me to tears a couple of times. I'm so glad I got the chance to see him.

Tonight, Eldar, with my son. Heard he was off the hook, too. I'll let you know.

yours in music and sleep deprivation,
Tracy

RIJF Night One

Okay, not a great start. I got down to the Fest in plenty of time to see Mike Manieri and Steps Ahead. I was able to catch a little of Stephane Wrembel as well. As we walked down the street toward the Harro East, we ran into one set of friends. They said, "Oh the sound system at the Harro East was awful and the show wasn't too good." But, everything being subjective, we kept on walking. We met up with another set of friends--a guitarist and a vocalist. They said, "Oh we left early; the sound system at the Harro East just sucked. It was muffled and crackling. We snuck out early."

Hmm. We decided to go with them over to Max at Eastman Place to see Esperanza Spalding instead. So we waited in line and waited in line and moved up slowly to the point where the table was and I could trade my ticket for a pass. Well, they were out of lanyards. What? Get some more. How ridiculous was that? It gets worse. After I signed my pass, the woman said. "Oh, by the way, it's full in there." I said, "What do you mean, the first show hasn't let out yet?" She said, "No, it was empty and now it's full." I said, "So, what you're telling me is that we've stood in this line for nothing?'' She said, "Yeah, I guess so."

So why didn't anyone come out and close the line so we could figure out where to hoof it to next instead of wasting part of our night standing in a line to nowhere?

Well, my Friend had seen Jonathan Kreisberg at the earlier show and was so blown away that he agreed to go back and see the 10:00 show. Luckily, we got in. He was awesome.

But . . . I have a problem with the way things were handled at Max's and a problem with the fact that the Harro East, if they are using it for a Jazz Fest venue, has sound system problems. I heard there was no one at the mixing table. Come on John and Mark, you should have this down to perfection by now.

I have no idea where we're going tonight, but I know that I want to see at least a little bit of Los Lonely Boys and Ryan Shaw. I'll post later.

yours in music,
Tracy

It seems to have worked!

Okay, so by highlighting that web address, copying it, pasting it in the address bar and hitting enter (or clicking "go"), it took me right to my Twitter page. So I guess that means that tomorrow night when I, hopefully, make it to the 10:00pm show of Jonathan Kreisberg Trio at Hi Fidelity, I can post some notes to my Twitter account and you can see them! How high-tech is that?!

So, yeah, I'm in a wedding this weekend--Maid of Honor--so will be working Jazz Fest into non-wedding event times. Tomorrow we have the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, that's why the first thing I'll be able to see is the 10:00 Kreisberg show. Then on Saturday, the bride (in her infinite wisdom) chose a 10:00am wedding and luncheon reception. Because of that wisdom, I might be able to attend two events Saturday night. I really would like to see Stephane Wrembel at the Big Tent at 6:00pm,. If you see a woman in a periwinkle blue gown with sparkly things in her frou-frou hairdo, that will be me. Then there is Randy Brecker at 10:00 at Kilbourn, and if at all possible, Los Lonely Boys at 9:00 at the East Ave./Chestnut stage. We shall see. I'm sure there'll be a line for Brecker, so that's where I might be (hopefully in jeans by then). And, perhaps, with any luck, I shall be able to post notes to my Twitter account from these shows.

I can't wait!!

Yours in music,
Tracy

Experimenting with some simple remote capabilities!

Remember, I'm Queen of Low-Tech, so everything here is new to me. I have decided to try Twitter since my phone refused to text message the email address I assigned to this blog. So, here is my Twitter link: http://twitter.com/tracykroft which I think you can go to and see my postings via my phone from the Jazz Fest. I'm going to try to access that account. I hope it's simple!

yours in music,
Tracy

Yes, I Know I Haven't Posted.

Okay, here's the quick and dirty on the Fairport Canal Days. I did not get to see the Bowties because there was a torrential downpour. So sad. I did see Gap Mangione's Big Band. Nice. I also had chicken barbecue at the same time. It was a little dry. On Saturday, my son had a car accident--he's fine, thank you--but it through off my schedule just a tad.

However, I did manage to see Footnote later in the afternoon. My daughter came with me. She said they were "melodic." She liked them a lot. She has a good ear and an incredible voice. Footnote is a "smooth-ish" jazz band with plenty of original tunes which I did enjoy. They also covered Steely Dan, David Sanborn, the Doobies and Rippingtons quite nicely. The venue was outdoors in front of a coffee shop right by the railroad tracks. Not the best venue for balance. The lead guitar (Jon Greeno) and the keyboards (Jon Tucker) and the drums (Keith Welch) were loud enough, but the bass (Herb Renke) and the rhythm guitar (Adam Bradley) were on the soft side. They really needed to turn up. Adam had a couple of cool solos, but I could hardly hear him. Once again, it was partly due to the venue. I would really like to see them inside a club with decent acoustics. They were very enjoyable, and I'd go see them again. I do believe they will be at the Jazz Fest. As a matter of fact, on June 10 at the ROBERT MONDAVI CLUB PASS BIG TENT at 6:00 pm. I'll try to get in to see them. They were cool. Websites, anyone? myspace.com/jongreeno, myspace.com/thefootnoteband, myspace.com/tucktranix

On Sunday, I saw the Fairport High School Jazz Alumni Reunion Tour. Okay, it's not really a tour, and some of the kids/guys don't pick up their instruments once between yearly concerts, but you know what? They sounded damned good! Following them was The Bill Tiberio Group. But this incarnation of BTG was a little different than usual. There was Bill, of course, on sax--always incredible, always sweet and soulful. There was Mel on guitar--the usual Mel but with a littl wah-wah going on. He kept me on my toes! Aaron Staebell killed on drums, as usual. But, instead of Gerry Youngman on organ and left-hand bass (he was out-of-town), Bill had Geoff Smith on bass (killer) and Scott Bradley on keys and trumpet (he was great). They could not have played long enough. What an enjoyable way to spend almost an hour on a summer's afternoon. (Their link is on the side.)

I love being surprised. And let me tell you, Mint Jam was a surprise. I had heard they were "good." But they were kids. Who could have known how good they would be? Gabe Condon (15) on lead guitar and vocals; Ray DeSalvo (14) on drums, and Matthew Condon (13) on bass. They covered Cream, Robben Ford, Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and more really, really well. They had their own originals, too, which were also quite good. These kids are going somewhere. Gabe is the total package. He can play. Boy, can he play. He's got the voice (hope it's still good when it's done changing). And he's cute and has stage presence. I will want to see where he is five years from now, ten years from now . . . sonicbids.com/gabecondonandmintjam

So, that's a quick rundown of the music that I heard at Canal Days, 2007.

Oh, and I heard that there was mention tonight on WXXI's broadcast of All Things Considered that I will be podcasting from the Jazz Fest. Well. I don't have a pod. And even if I did, I'm not sure I'd know how to cast. So, I've contacted my "IT Support Team" to see if they can make it happen. I'll keep you informed . . .

yours in music (and in anticipation of the Jazz Fest),
Tracy

Feeling Kind of Fest-ive

Now that it's June 1, I can officially begin my countdown to the Jazz Fest. I'm so excited! In the meantime, however, is Fairport's Canal Days festival with its own contribution to our musical well-being.

I see that Gap Mangione and His Big Band are playing from 6:00 to 9:00 before the fireworks on Friday night. Of course, at 5:30, I will be at Minerva DeLand School in Fairport to see the two jazz ensembles of Fairport High School perform their final concert of the year. These student musicians are among the best I've ever heard, and it's due in large part to their amazing director, Bill Tiberio. Bill pushes them to achieve even more than they think they are capable of; and they enjoy it, as well. It would be worth your while to stop in on your way to the chicken barbeque and Gap.

I'm only going to highlight a few of the groups playing this weekend, but you can view the whole schedule at http://www.fairportcanaldays.com/schedule.php and make your own choices. On Saturday, the Fairport Fire Department Band, always a parade favorite, is performing on the water at 1:00. The Blue Avengers are on at 2:00 at Fairport Junction (does everyone besides me know where this is?); Fred Vine, also at 2:00, is at Packett's Landing. I want to make a special point to see Footnote at 4:30 at Higher Grounds Cafe. They have been kind enough to read my blog and have invited me to come and see them. I'm looking forward to it. On Sunday morning at 11:00, the Fairport High School Alumni Jazz Band will perform--my son's first time as an alum--and they will be followed by The Bill Tiberio Group, jazz at its smoothest and sweetest, at 12:00, both at Packett's Landing. Mint Jam, a group of kids about whom I've heard good stuff (http://www.myspace.com/mintjam) will come after them, and I hope to get the chance to hear them. And, finally, at 3:30 at Packett's Landing, the Bowties will perform. They are a men's a cappella group, formed in 1997 here in Rochester. A delight to hear, they perform a huge variety of music, from doo-wop, jazz, and pop to classical, show tunes, etc. They're pretty cool . . . even though they actually do wear bowties.

Perhaps if I focus on listening to all this great music this year, I can avoid eating all that darned festival food! In addition, I can get a little "music fix" while I await the opening day of RIJF. In my posts next week, I'll offer up the groups I'm planning on seeing and some quick reviews afterward.

Hot Sweets Never Disappoints

From the opening note of Joe Chiappone's first solo of the night--George Benson's Breezin'--Hot Sweets was off and running and everyone was having a good time. The crowd was lighter than normal because of the holiday, but those who were there were dancing all night long.

The guys were hot all night--Todd East's vocals soared along with Chiappone's sweet guitar licks; Ralph Ortiz and Randy Richmond (on drums this week) kept the groove real smooth. Jimmy Richmond's plaintive and soulful vocals on There Ain't No Sunshine (When She's Gone) served to cap off what I think is the best rendition of that tune that I've ever heard. Not unlike the sound Charnett Moffett got out of his upright at last year's McCoy Tyner concert, Ralph Ortiz just about turned his electric bass into a percussion instrument. When these guys go into the recording studio, and I sure hope they do, this tune is a must for them to record.

For all of you who were at McCool's this past Friday, you got a night of first-class music by top-flight musicians. For those of you who weren't there, make sure you are next time!

yours in music,
Tracy

Looking Forward to Friday!

This Friday, May 25, Hot Sweets--Jimmy Richmond (Geneva's favorite son), Ralph Ortiz (the funkiest), Joe Chiappone (smokin' guitar), Todd East (the incomparable) and Dave Cohen (keeping it real on the drums)--will be playing at McCool's Music Room in Geneva. This place is definitely worth the drive. Check out their link on my website. The folks who've built this place wanted to make it a class act, and they have been very successful in this endeavor. They bring in high-quality music acts, like Hot Sweets, every Friday and Saturday night. Make the drive; you won't be disappointed--especially this Friday night!

yours in music,
Tracy

Phill Freeman and The Best

Went to a private party this weekend where the entertainment was Phill Freeman (who has the lowest voice I've ever heard this side of Barry White) and his accompanying band, The Best. And they were! Ron D'Angelo on horn--always great to hear, Jimmy Richmond on sax and some vocals (not enough), Joe Chiappone smokin' on guitar as always, Steve Curry keeping the groove nicely on the drums, Mark Cassara on sax and vocals--no one plays like him, and Casey Filiaci who was a "new find" for me, and I really enjoyed him.

There were people on the dance floor for just about every number, and Jimmy Richmond filled it with "the ladies" for his trademark tune, "Get Up." Even I danced to that! The band looked like they were having some fun, too, which is always a good thing.

yours in music,
Tracy

Some Thoughts on City Newspaper mail commentary

So, in the April 25th issue of City Newspaper (yes, I realize that it's May 16th, but I've been thinking about how to address this), there was a letter--well, more of an essay--in "the mail" regarding our upcoming Jazz Fest. Here is the title "Jazz? Or music for elderly suburbanites?" of the piece that got my blood in a bubble. How dare this young whippersnapper call me an elderly suburbanite!!! I thought I knew exactly how I was going to lambaste this Ian Downey of Field Street, Rochester, who is probably in his 20s which makes anyone over 40 "elderly." I take umbrage.

Anyway . . . I decided to read this article before jumping to conclusions and firing off a blog about disrespect to jazz, disrespect to the suburbs and disrespect to the elderly, uh, I mean "mature music consumers." Apparently this mail was in response to an article in the April 4th edition which he quoted as saying that the RIJF has "grown in both breadth and quality" to which he inquired, "City Paper, I understand that you want to foster and support what few outlets of culture seem to be growing in Rochester . . . support implies doing the work of criticizing our community's projects when they appear to be headed in the wrong direction."

So at this point, very early in the article, I was feeling righteously indignant. Then I read on. He wrote, very eloquently actually, about what the true essence of jazz was--that the genius of the music lay in its originality, spontaneity, creativity. He then contrasted that with his perception of this year's Jazz Fest lineup which he saw as "smoothed over cross-over music made palatable and safe for a mainstream audience, pushed very far in the direction of pop, away from jazz." Downey goes on to critique some of the upcoming Jazz Fest acts like King Solomon Burke, Dr. John, Jerry Lee Lewis, Rusted Root, Shooter Jennings and others as being as far from jazz as, well, Rochester is from NYC.

He has a valid point. I saw Sonya Kitchell last year. Her music wasn't jazz. It was teen angst in a different type of package than Alanis Morrisette's teen angst. But quite a few of us saw her in the Big Tent. Quite a few people paid for that show alone--I had a pass--and quite a few of us were paying $7 for glasses of wine, buying unspeakably expensive food, and sharing in a "scene" that Rochester only offers us once a year. So, here's where us "elderly suburbanites" come into play. We can afford a $7 glass of wine, or two, even. We can afford to buy a jazz pass for $100+ and tickets to see Jerry Lee Lewis (good God, kid, I'm with you there!) and King Solomon Burke et al. We "old folks with the bucks" are what supports this festival, and John Nugent and Mark Iacona know this and have to play to that.

That's not to say I don't agree with some of your points. Last year, in addition to Sonya Kitchell, I saw Kenny Garrett. I think you might agree that he's real jazz. I think he is. I saw some other acts that were true jazz. But here's the thing. If you narrow the scope of this festival to real, true jazz, you are not going to get 100,000 people pouring into the city streets of Rochester nine days straight. Last year, I went to see one of my favorite local jazz bands at the Big Tent. There was quite a good sized crowd. One week after the jazz fest ended, this same band was playing at Cucina Pazzo, a new restaurant in the city right around the corner from where 80,000 people were the week before. The restaurant was pushing a 5:00 - 9:00 Jazz Happy Hour. Sadly, there was only a handful of us. Where were all those hip jazz cats with their backwards RIJF hats that night? Probably home in the 'burbs sipping from a $25 bottle of wine and wishing they were back at the Jazz Fest "scene" of the week before.

So, my young friend, Ian, my point is that while you have some very valid issues with the quality of the acts coming to our Jazz Fest, this "scene" is a business, and that business has to make money to continue. So, my advice is to do just what you did--listen to the artists's clips and try to get to the (relatively) few true jazz acts that will be here. Then, soak up the vibrancy of the Rochester city streets for those nine nights because you won't see that again until next Jazz Fest.

yours in music,
Tracy

Under the Weather This Weekend.

I'll be back as soon as I'm normal again. Well, as normal as I ever get. Did see Frontline on Friday night. They rocked the house. Joe Chiappone's solo on James Taylor's Steamroller was amazing. The band was really on fire that night!

Tell Me Why . . .

Tell me why people go to venues with live music playing when all they want to do is yak and cackle the night away? Go to Starbucks for heaven's sake.

I went to The Little Theatre Cafe (a very nice venue) to see The White Hots--this week's incarnation included Ted Mosher on bass, Paul Gaspar on trumpet and piano, Bill Blind on drums, Tom Hanney on harmonica, Steve Greene (in his Birkies) on guitar and the ever lovely Tina Albright on vocals. A wonderfully talented group of musicians well worth seeing even if slightly muddied by the presence of the "Coffee-Klatch Six" in the back and my talking table-mate (didn't know her, but her mouth never stopped). I managed to restrain myself from standing up and screaming, "WILL YOU BE QUIET!" when Tina sang my request--The White Hots' version of Folsom Prison Blues. The White Hots are jazz jewels, and you should not miss them. Look on their website (to which I have a link for your convenience) to see their gig schedule. There are several opportunities to see them; they are not to be missed.

This weekend, Frontline is at the Village Rock Cafe in East Rochester at 10:00pm. Check them out!

yours in music,
Tracy

Some NYC Tidbits

If ever Cyrus Chestnut comes to Rochester (hint for the Jazz Fest organizers), I will be first to buy tickets. We saw him accompanying Cassandra Wilson at the BlueNote while we were in NYC last weekend. It was the 11:30 show, and it was sold out. Cyrus and his piano were practically in my lap; that's how tight they crammed us in. He used our table for a place to put his coffee. When he started to play, I was blown away. Cassandra Wilson was dynamic and personable, and I did enjoy her singing, but it would be his CD that I would buy after hearing that show, not hers.

We walked into a restaurant in Greenwich Village in which the downstairs back room was the place for jazz. There was a wonderful trio playing there on Friday night; there was another wonderful trio playing at the restaurant we went to on Sunday for a "jazz brunch." This is what we need here. Why can't we have places like this, albeit on a smaller scale, here in Rochester? We have the available talent--they are all over just dying for places to play. Why can't this town sustain a jazz club? The Clarissa Room, the Pythod Room, Milestones MUSIC Room, the Montage Grille--all of which showcased quality players, and some nights the band outnumbered the listeners. What's wrong with our city? Why don't we appreciate what we have here?

Enough rant. Suffice it to say that New York was amazing. I could have stayed longer, and I can't wait to go back.

yours in music,
Tracy

Pardon my absence.

I was away this past weekend "in the City" and saw some great music and ate way too much good food. I'll fill you in after I've recovered later today!

Some Caveats

In this blog, it is my intention to add links to music clubs, musician's web sites, and other sites that I think are applicable. This is not written in blood. Sadly, music clubs fold (this happens far too often in our fair city), musicians get sick and cancel gigs, bands break up and sometimes links just don't work. These links provided by me are a convenience for you. They are posted in good faith. Because I love you so much. Please do not attempt to hold me responsible for bad information that is due to circumstances beyond my control. I will do my best to post accurate information and helpful links. Feel free to let me know (nicely, please) if I'm in error. I will try to amend any inaccurate information.

That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it.

good night and good listening,
Tracy

Is a Ladies' Room Attendant Really Necessary?

Went to Hi Fidelity last night. As we walked up, I was disappointed to see that the exterior was just the same except for a new name marquee and a new mailbox. (I noticed this because it was just like mine.) Anyway, inside I was happy to see the same guy was still the "bouncer" because he was a sweetheart of a man who walked me to my car on the occasions that I was "without companion," and I would have hated to think he'd lost his job. The inside did appear more spacious; the bar as well. The walls were painted--with a faux finish no less--a lovely shade of blue. However, the tables and chairs and barstools all seemed the same. And when I ventured to the Ladies' Room, I was sorely disappointed to see almost no difference save the Bathroom Attendant. Yes, they repainted the stalls (over the stickers) a lovely shade of sh** brown. I think the sinks were new. Props for that. But why that level of "luxury" required an Attendant I had to wonder. I came out of my stall, and there she was at the ready to squirt my one pump of handsoap into my hands. It just wasn't enough. I had to ask for another squirt. She hovered about six inches from my elbow as I washed and rinsed my hands, ready to pounce with the towel as soon as I appear suds-free. So, two squirts of soap and one towel later, I left a buck in her basket and returned to my table. Seems oddly pretentious for a dump of a bathroom to have an attendant. But . . . who am I to say?

We saw Allegro. They are a party band for sure. And they looked like they were having a party up there--the interaction and play with the musicians was lively. The musicianship was more than adequate with high points--Dave Marinelli on keyboard, Gene Rogalski finally got a solo on guitar, the horn section was cool, and the vocalists were having a blast with each other and with the crowd. A fun band all around.

music rules the world,
Tracy

Worth the trip . . . for many reasons.

Tomorrow night at 9:00, The Bill Tiberio Group will appear at a new (January 2007) music club in Geneva called McCool's Music Room. Yes. Geneva. It's about a 40 minute ride from the Thruway entrance #45 in Victor. But it is well worth the trip. I've heard that the building used to be some dive bar, but these new owners who moved here from California (the McGraths) completely renovated this place into a posh, sophisticated and upscale music club. Why they chose to put it in Geneva, I do not know. Not that there's anything wrong with Geneva, but I sure hope their success is so great that they'll want to replicate this club in Rochester. We need it. There is a dwindling number of venues for our many talented musicians to play at--we need more! And we need them done in the stylish way that McCool's has been done.

Besides the many aesthetic reasons to visit this high-end establishment and the fact that they create many "fancy" drinks and have a well-stocked bar, they also get the best musicians to play there on Friday and Saturday nights. Most of the groups and soloists come in from Rochester. Every group I've seen there has been top-notch, and that keeps people coming every weekend. This Saturday, one of my favorite local jazz bands will be playing--The Bill Tiberio Group. Whether they are covering standard jazz tunes, contemporary jazz tunes or playing their own compositions, this is a tight band of exemplary musicians led by the incomparable Bill Tiberio. Not to be missed.

Tonight, Allegro plays at Hi-Fidelity. I'll be checking out both the band and the venue. I hope Hi-Fidelity doesn't make me long for the old Milestones. (And I sure hope they renovated the bathrooms.)

support our local musicians and venues,
Tracy

Most of the players in many of the bands that I go to see are at least 40 if not older, and they can rock out like they were still teenagers. The difference is that they know life and have experienced the highs and lows of being a responsible adult. These experiences come through in their playing, and that's why a musician "of a certain age" can make their instrument "speak" with more soul than a 20-year-old can.

So, let's see, this weekend, I had the pleasure of going out to see live music both Friday and Saturday nights. I always say "see live music" because there is always so much to see. I'm not just talking about the random crazy dancers or other interesting characters who inhabit live music venues. I am talking mostly about watching the faces of the musicians and catching their joy as they play. I love to see the musicians whose facial expressions are evidence that their music transports them to another place. When it transports me, too, that's a great night of music.

Saturday night I was transported by the top-notch musicianship and the love of music of the relatively new band, Frontline. While the band is new, the players are seasoned veterans of the Rochester music scene and beyond. Dave Profetta does incredible things with his guitar, and one of my favorites is his arrangement of the Beatles' Norwegian Wood. Joe Chiappone is the definition of guitarist. It is so clear the joy that making music brings to him. I watch when he and Dave solo back and forth and you can see the artistic appreciation in each one's face while the other is playing. That's true for all the band members. Dick Calleri (I hope I didn't butcher the spelling of your last name) plays bass and handles the vocals with occasional harmonizing with Dave--beautiful stuff. The drums are usually covered nicely by Ken Kahler, but this week Joe Opipari filled in quite well. All four players show their technical skills, but don't try to jam too many notes into a measure. Their covers are spot on and their solos and their own arrangements add a new and exciting dimension to songs you've heard before. Check this band out May 11 at Village Rock in East Rochester.

Tony Infantino (yes, the Radio Personality--though I'm old enough to remember when we just called them deejays) can sing! Maybe I should have figured that anyone with as smooth a radio voice as Tony has could sing, but you never know. He has a new band called Keys to the Caddy, and they had their debut Friday night at The Keg (behind the German House). I didn't get much biographical info on the band members, but my understanding is they are all experienced players who've been in other bands. They seemed to be having as much fun as the audience, and it was a cool show.

Why Another Music Blog (about Rochester's music no less)?

Music has the power to bring you joy, ease your pain, help you cry through heartache and see you to the other side. Sometimes the same moment in the same piece of music (yes, T, I'm thinking of 3min 45sec into Why Don't You Ask) can bring me to the height of heart-busting joy or bring me to a puddle of tears depending on where I am in the continuum of my emotions.

Music has always been important to me from the days that my dad took me on walks and sang "Scarlet Ribbons," to the times when we gathered as extended family and the musicians of the group would bring out guitars, banjos and drums and we would all sing together, to the summers spent in my backyard swimming pool with my dad's Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass blaring from the speakers of his reel-to-reel and enveloping our yard (and the neighbors' yards) with the sounds of summer music--I can still see the cover art of my dad's (vinyl, of course) copy of Whipped Cream.

For all of us, certain songs or pieces of music evoke memories of certain people and/or times. I learned to dance to Earth, Wind & Fire, sang my heart out with Billy Joel, became a teenager with Genesis. I cried through (how many????) break ups with Elton John, and danced off my all angst to Queen. I sang through both pregnancies. After they were born, my babies knew the soothing sound of my voice singing songs they'd heard before. Guns 'n' Roses "Sweet Child o' Mine" was the number one song on Billboard the week my son was born. Mariah Carey's "I Don't Wanna Cry" was number one when my daughter was born, but she did not agree.

Sorry; I digress. We live in a city rich with musicians of incredible talent (in a wide variety of styles) and, sadly, dwindling places to play. And, unfortunately, we get so wrapped up in our busy lives that we just don't want to come out of our little cocoons and visit these places to hear the quality people we have playing in our midst. It blows my mind what's out there every week that people don't take the time to go see.

I admit, though I go out to see local music more than most people I know, I don't see everyone, everywhere. I will only be able to write about what I am able to go to myself. If anyone wants to talk about what/who they have seen and heard, I am happy to hear about it. I will also post any upcoming music events for which I write the press releases.

In my next post, I will talk about the incredible music I was witness to this weekend. When I am able to post my couple of photos, then I will write about it. Let me just say, rocking out is not just for the 20-somethings.

And . . .

support our local musicians and music venues,
Tracy