There’s SO MUCH MUSIC out there. Understatement of the year, right? Usually when I get a personal recommendation for a new artist from a friend or co-worker, I’ll always listen (and most always really enjoy!). But beyond that, I don’t necessarily go hunting for music that I have no frame of reference for. Sometimes in a single day, I feel like I read or see dozens of suggestions for bands and artists to check out on the web, but it’s pretty rare that I’ll actually go down the road of trying to listen to everything that comes across my path. I’m sure you’ve experienced this.
And then there’s that occasion when you DO check out a completely new artist or band…music you haven’t heard and an artist name you don’t even recognize…with no personal suggestion, just an article or video you come across or a name on a list of artists “you must hear!”.
A young singer/songwriter from Oklahoma named Samantha Crain was one of those names on a list I recently read…and I’m so glad I decided to listen:
Thursday night Songwriter’s Series at The Pit Stop
Since the Spring, I’ve worked with more than 20 artists to coordinate just about 10 shows at The Pit Stop. Last Thursday, 10 people stopped by to see a seasoned local and his Boston-based friend who made the trek to open the show. Three Thursdays ago, there were maybe 15 in attendance. Last night, 35 folks came out to support the two island artists who performed.
I can dutifully keep a record of the shows and tally the number of people who come through the door each night, but what isn’t easily measured is the amount of experience I’ve gained. Not to mention the seemingly limitless creative energy and raw talent that I’ve witnessed every week. I’m very thankful to be a part of the small team that keeps The Pit Stop in existence. And so happy to have facilitated the transfer of music from artist to audience.
To start us off last night, Lydia Fischer took the mic and expressed emotions that we’ve all felt in ways that most of us just don’t know how to express. Lydia’s one-of-a-kind voice, charming stage presence, and percussive guitar-playing are so engaging, but what makes Lydia really superb is her songwriting.
Erich Luening followed suit with beautifully written words about life and hope and family. While some of the audience filtered out, some folks were just arriving during the 10 minute break before Erich began his set. His sister Sabrina joined him for several tunes (both old and brand new), and the late night crowd was treated to two of the most soulful and real voices on the island.
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“Rock Song”
One of my favorite moments of the night was Lydia’s rendition of a song she wrote with her friend Julie Perry, who was in the audience. It was an engaging, catchy, immaculately-written tune about lovers parting ways. After the frenzy of applause that followed, Lydia laughed as she said to Julie – “Did we even know what we were talking about? We were in high school!”
This year, Lydia graduated from Berklee School Of Music in Boston. I cannot wait to hear more.
There were a lot of special moments at the Life Is Good festival this past weekend. Some artists really surprised me, and Sara Bareilles was one of them! I especially like this tune from her – it’s catchy and fun with thoughtful lyrics and her vocals soar!
Wow. This has been quite the week for me musically. Before I could even process the amazing Dr. Dog/Delta Spirit show (I’ll write about it soon!) I found myself at the Life Is Good festival at Prowse Farm in Canton, MA. This is my second time attending the fest with mvyradio and I can’t quite express how FEEL GOOD it is! Every musician is chosen with positivity and good vibes in mind – this year the lineup includes Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds, Michael Franti, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Trombone Shorty, Eric Hutchinson, Soulive, Sara Bareilles, Allen Stone, Ryan Montbleau Band and more! The fest is family friendly with a kids stage and “chill zone”. And the most amazing part of the Life Is Good festival is that 100% of the proceeds go to help kids in need. Because of the great cause, the amazing music, and the feel good, welcoming vibe, everyone seems to have a smile on their face. This weekend’s perfect weather certainly helped too!
This track is hiding at the very end of Delta Spirit’s latest self-titled album. It’s honestly been making me cry lately…with it’s gorgeous, lush sound and words that I think really make you FEEL the emotion. Tomorrow night I’ll see Delta Spirit LIVE with Dr. Dog at Lupo’s…
“So cold I know you can’t believe it Sometimes you gotta face the feeling When you don’t care if you get up again There’s a thousand things I will not understand How you’re dealing with the hell I put you through If I had my way I’d be right there next to you There’s certain things in life you cannot change There’s certain things… I hope you know I care.”
I’ve blogged about this dreamy duo before. Tall Heights will be playing on the side stage at Naukabout and they are not to be missed. Beautiful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics definitely pull the listener in…check out “Hell And High Water” recorded TODAY at WBUR in Boston:
I’ve seen John Brown’s Body once before and was just blown away by how they MOVED me. These guys really get funky and have an awesome groove to their roots/reggae sound. They’re sure to get the crowd moving and grooving at Naukabout! You’ll hear what I mean:
Well, the summer is flying by as usual and the 5th annual Naukabout festival is coming right up! I’m looking forward to seeing a lot of great local acts Saturday including the Adam Ezra Group, who I’ve never seen live. I love this sweet sounding tune and it’s fun to see all the Boston shots in the music video too:
It’s easy to get excited about certain acts as I explore the Newport Folk Lineup. This Nashville band in particular seems to really ROCK the folk, and I’m betting they’ll be a blast to see live!
Cool off this weekend by jumping aboard a Rock and Blues Concert Cruise in Boston. Enjoying a cold beverage on a boat with friends, gazing at the city off in the distance is something special…add in some incredible live music, and you’ve got a perfect way to kick off the summer!
