Volume 37 - Blues Alliance TC

Blues News
Volume 37
June 2012 - July 2012
“To Support and Promote the American Art of
the Blues on the Treasure Coast”
Officers
Bob “Cougar” Whitt-President
Patti Gamble-Vice President
Elaine Romano Souza-Treasurer
Caren Belowch-Rec. Secretary
Board of Directors
Richard Griffith
Tom Brown
Sonny Owens Belowch
Sandra Griffith
Sharon Brickman
The Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast, Inc. is a non-profit organization comprised of musicians, vocalists, song writers, bands and folks who just
love music, especially the BLUES, here on the Treasure Coast of Florida. The
Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast supports all types of music, however, the
basis of the organization is the BLUES. The Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast
has many fine community programs:
Blues Newsletter–Interesting articles, mailed every other month to members
and distributed throughout the Treasure Coast.
Monthly membership meetings- Come and socialize with the other Blues
Alliance members and discuss the local area blues scene.
Advisory Committee
Gerry Mullaney
Vern Melvin
Steve “Hawk“ Levy
Elaine Romano Souza
Member– The National Blues Foundation.
Phone Committee
Sandra Griffith
Newsletter Editor
Patti Gamble
Eric McManis
Newsletter Printer
Ocean Grafix
Website
Wes Neal
Media
Teresa Vincent
Tom Brown
Benefit Program– for local musicians.
Hot Line: 772-467-1851
Listed– The Blues Festival Guide, the “BIBLE OF THE BLUES”.
Participant– The IBC, International Blues Challenge.
Scholarships- Provides two worthy children with music scholarships to IRSC
each year.
Let Us Play Program- Recycle program providing instruments free of cost to
children unable to buy or rent their own.
Hooked on Blues - Supporting our bands each month.
Blues website- Packed with blues information, music, lessons, scheduled
events, happenings, links and more.
www.bluesalliance.org
www.myspace.com/bluesalliancetc
Next Blues Alliance Membership Meetings
“Hooked on Blues”
Event
With Hurricane Hawk
and Co.
“Hooked on Blues”
Event
With Ben Prestage
Thursday, May 24, 2012
8-11 PM
Thursday, May 31, 2012
7:30 - 10 PM
Crush Wine Bar
100 S Dixie Hwy,
Stuart, Fl. 34994
Earthtones
43 SW Osceola St.,
Stuart, Fl. 34994
For directions: 772-600-5836
For directions: 772-288-1010
BATC Board Meeting
Thursday, June 8, 2012
7pm
B Merry Gastro Pub
320 SE Denver Ave.,
Stuart, Fl. 34994
For Directions: 772-985-3616
Volume 37
Page 2
MEMBER BANDS
Support our member bands by going out to see them.
Category 5:
www.category5blues.com
www.facebook.com/Cat5blues
www.reverbnation.com/category5blues
The Mojo Band:
www.myspace.com/greggjacksonthemojoband
www.facebook.com/gjmojoband
The Nouveaux Honkies:
www.tnhband.com or www.myspace.com/
thenouveauxhonkies
Soul Rebel:
www.soulrebelband.com
Stoney and the House Rockers:
www.facebook.com/stoneyhouserkrs
Masquerade Band
www.masqueradeband.net
Ben Prestage
www.benprestagemusic.com
Steve “ Hawk” Levy
www.hurricanehawk.com
The Pitbull of Blues Band
www.thepitbullofblues.com
Mary Ann Stefanik
www.maryannsmusic.com
www.reverbnation.com/maryann
David Shelley and Bluestone
www.davidshelleyandbluestone.com
Stevie and the Hot Rods
www.myspace.com/johnybeamsderfer
Joel Zoss
www.joelzoss.com
The Party Dogs
www.thepartydogsband.com
Sophisticats
www.s-cats.com
www.nortonmusic.com
Don Bestor/Trademark Duo/Trio
www.trademarkduo.com
www.trademarktrio.com
www.donplayspiano.com
BOD Sonny Owens Belowch
Stoney of Stoney and the House Rockers
Photos by M.Kane Suarez
Media Specialist, BOD, Membership, Tom Brown
Treasurer, Event Co-ord., Elaine Romano Souza
Blues Alliance Core Band
Student participants Robby and Michelle
Blues Alliance Recital/Jam,
MC, Brian Siegle
Volume 37
Page 3
“Let Us Play” Recital/Jam by Elaine Romano Souza
As with planning the recital every year, we expect bumps in the
road (sounds like a blues song to me). But, even with the bumps, all went
well.
Our 4th annual recital was impacted by the S.A.T.’s! Who knew
school testing was on a Saturday! We planned post F.C.A.T.’s, and landed
right on S.A.T.’s! We missed the pleasure of the performances of a great
number of students, and so we dedicated the recital to them and prayed for
great testing scores.
Even with just 4 students, we filled the 2 hour slot with 3 counties
represented……one student performing in his 4th year, one in her 2nd, and
first-timers representing last year’s recipient of one of our music scholarships to IRSC.
We were concerned with audience attendance, but the room filled
up with many new faces mainly due to the best press coverage we’ve ever
had. Also, a face from the past…..Uncle Dave! Tom Brown, Media Specialist, worked with WPTV channel 5, and the Saint Lucie News Tribune.
Teresa Vincent, Media Specialist, did our general press releases and worked
with many local publications. The Hometown News featured an article.
And, Patti Gamble and I chatted with Anthony Westbury on his Monday
morning WIRA radio show.
Student participant Naomi
I wish to thank all those who have not yet been mentioned from
The Blues Alliance who availed themselves as planners and volunteers: Brian Siegle who hosted the recital, Stoney for his inspirational message, The
BATC Core Band, Sandy Griffith for her presentation of the BATC and “Let
Us Play” mission statements, Ann Marie Colonnese, Denise Sickler, Marilyn
Suarez, John Souza, Sonny and Caren Belowch and Sharon Brickman……I
hope I haven’t missed anyone! Also, thanks to American Legion Post 40,
Port Saint Lucie Downtown Lion’s Club and Ocean Grafix.
Now, it’s back to the planning stage for the next recital/jam. And
please don’t forget…..to continue the mission of the “Let Us Play” Program,
if anyone wishes to donate used/new musical instruments, provide storage
for the instruments, or donate time as a committee member, please contact
The Blues Alliance at: 772-467-1851. Please leave your message and we will
contact you in a timely manner. And, above all else…..if you know a child
who has an interest in music but little or no means to obtain an instrument,
please call the number above. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank
you for supporting the children of our communities.
The Blues Alliance would like to welcome new members:
Ralph and Michele Sugden, Pat Horan, B Merry Gastro Pub,
Thank you for your support!
Recital participant Edgar
Volume 37
Page 4
THE FRIENDLY POST OF THE
TREASURE COAST
AMERICAN LEGION POST #40
772-461-1480
810 S. U S 1
Fort Pierce, Fl 34950
Featured Sponsors
Future Blues-TUF
By Vern Melvin
A few weeks ago, on a windy and rainy afternoon I went up to Earl’s Hideaway on a Sunday afternoon hoping to catch a nationally
touring blues band I’d been wanting to see for a year or so. Even though Earl’s always has the best local, regional, or national blues
talent every Sunday afternoon (thanks to Franni Palooza and Earl’s management) I don’t always make it up there…..especially
when the weather doesn’t appear to be very accommodating. I was willing to take the chance that Sunday, however, because this
promised to be an exceptional show and one I’d been anticipating. Along with a couple of friends, I arrived before 2 p.m., the usual
show starting time, and the weather was not good. Franni assured me that even though the band would start late, the show would
go on. Sure enough, around 4 p.m., with the wind still whipping and dark clouds overhead leaking occasional rain drops Trampled
Under Foot (TUF) took the stage.
For those of you not familiar with this group Trampled Under Foot is a blues band trio made up of the Schnebelen siblings: Nick
on lead guitar and lead vocals; brother Kris on drums and vocals; and sister Danielle on bass and lead vocals. By the way, Nick and
Danielle are southpaws and play their instruments left handed. These young musicians (appear to be late 20’s/early 30’s) hail from
Kansas City and are the products of parents who were intimately involved in the Kansas City blues music scene as performers.
For those of you who know me, know that I’ve been a blues music fan(atic?) for over 25 years. During that time I’ve had the good
fortune to see some of the best blues music artists on the scene today and yesterday and while that does not qualify me as an expert,
it does mean I’ve seen a lot of exceptional talent and I’m here to “testify” that Trampled Under Foot is one of the best up and coming
blues bands I’ve seen in quite some time!
I got my first taste of TUF was last year when I got a copy of their latest CD, Wrong Side of the Blues. The level of musicianship,
incredible vocals, and strong song writing just floored me. I listened to the CD over and over for several weeks (something unusual
for me) and began researching TUF online. What I found out is that TUF was the 2008 International Blues Band (IBC) of the year
and lead guitarist Nick Schnebelen won the Albert King Award as best blues guitarist. Since then TUF has toured continuously,
won other awards, and this year, 2012, were Blues Music Award nominees for Band of the Year, DVD of the Year, and Danielle for
bass player of the year.
Getting back to Earl’s, I was relieved to see that their live show matched the quality of their CD studio performance. Additionally,
talking with them between sets was also very enjoyable…..genuinely nice, humble and down to earth young people. As we like to
say in the South, they had good raisin’!
I could go on and on in my praise of this young band, but am pretty much at my “word limit” for this article so let my close by
strongly recommending that you purchase TUF’s music and don’t miss the opportunity to see them live if you get the chance…..
satisfaction guaranteed!
Page 5
Volume 37
NEW GASTRO-PUB IS CORPORATE MEMBER OF BLUES ALLIANCE
By Sandra Griffith, BATC Board of Directors.
Joanne Polito is an author of several books, on spiritual gifts and counseling as
well as a great design artist and also a personal friend of mine. And that is how
I became introduced to her son, Chef Anthony Polito, now of Stuart, Fl. He is a
very talented artistic Chef. Anthony is a creative, hard working co-owner, of the
new B Merry Gastro Pub which is along a store front setting, at 320 S.E. Denver
St., in Old Town Stuart.
He and wife Samantha and his partner, Liz Falco, have brought a warm cozy restaurant pub to this area. They welcome solo musicians, smaller bands, or duos
and trios of all flavors and music styles to compliment the atmosphere that greets
the diners and guests within. Anthony is the gracious host as well.
B Merry is now a corporate sponsor of the Blues Alliance.
The Back Porch area of B Merry features an inviting area for bands to perform and accompany the retro surroundings.
You Can expect home -style cuisine from Chef Anthony's own recipe book. He has been cooking for 15 yrs. He was trained in Los
Angeles, Ca. He's exploited his culinary talents at the restaurant, through the “kicked up” home-style creations on the menu. He has
used his talents at restaurants, hotels, and award shows, such as the CAA a talent agency in Beverly Hills, Ca. and the Breakers in Palm
Beach, Fl. as well as the Academy Awards and the Grammys!! Now Chef Anthony brings his unique style to the tables in the retro,
Gastro Pub .
HOUR! You will feel at home!
Everything in the kitchen is made “IN HOUSE” using the finest ingredients just like momma used
to make. Everybody who walks through the door is family. As soon as you arrive the staff wants you
to feel like you are coming home. Like stepping back in time the atmosphere stimulates a memory
that puts a smile on your face. You'll smile, because the menu goes from 'Pub Fare' such as Jumbo
Wings in many flavors; ‘Inside Out Tamales' with Chorizo (which really hit the spot… I tried them)!
And there are the famous Burgers including the 'LIFE SENTENCE' which is a 1 lb. burger topped
with braised beef brisket and gouda.....to the fabulous salads, soups, and even PORK SHANK
OSSO BUCCO!... ,braised in bourbon broth, served over garlic mashed potatoes....UMMMMM!
Not even to mention surprise desserts like the “NUTTY PROFFESSOR CAKE” which is not on the
menu, but ask for it, if you can handle it! Patti did! The menu is reasonably priced…. $3.00 to $25.
00. There are also many choices on specials like 11 crafted beers on tap, wines and also a HAPPY
Co-Owner, Liz Falco, has been a mixologist, tending bar in the St. Lucie area for 11 years prior to this! And she is regularly a social
worker. New Horizons would be enough of a full time job, but she brings so much to B Merry! These are two loves she pours herself
into!
As Chef Anthony's newlywed wife Samantha can attest to, there are many projects there to pour themselves into! You will enjoy visiting
the ladies powder- room, trust me it is adorable! Her hand was in the decorating throughout the Pub. And being a wait person server
in the past, Samantha is the server ' Par Excellence', as she welcomes guests to B Merry.
So come in, sit down and relax! You're in good company! There is only one thing left to do...
EAT DRINK AND B MERRY!
Page 6
Volume 37
Our one and only, Nancy Richards showing off at the Recital/Jam.
This one is for Cougar our President.
Photo by M. Kane Suarez
Hooked on Blues Event with The Party Dogs
Pirates Cove, April 6, 2012
Tom Rigney and Flambeau
“Don’t Fight It”
Parhelion Records
In 2005, we lost Vassar Clements. Clements
was one of the world’s greatest violin players.
Coming from a Bluegrass background, Clements
apprenticed with Bill Monroe. His own Rounder and Flying Fish recordings are bluegrass classics. Clements was later to be called the father of
“Hillbilly Jazz” as in 1988 he recorded “Vassar Clements, John Hartford, and Dave Holland” a now rare, all instrumental album, also on
Rounder Records. This album started the subgenre which was soon to
be called “Hillbilly Jazz”. Find it if you can. Clements’ playing incorporates influences as diverse as Stephan Grappelli and he even recorded
with Grappelli. Clements also played country music with Marty Stuart; new grass with The Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia, and rocked out
with “Stir Fried”. Clements had the lightest touch as the bow seemed to
barely touch the strings.
Tom Rigney cites Vassar Clements as one of his influences and that influence can be heard in Rigney’s music. Rigney possesses a light touch
similar to Clements and his music incorporates everything from Country to Blues and Jazz. Rigney open’s with Little Walter’s “Just Your Fool”
and ends his original “Snakewalk” with a bit of pizzicato. He possesses a
clear voice as he sings on “Treat Me like a Dog”, written by his longtime
friend and musical partner Joe Paquin. Rigney also reprises two of his
best songs; “Rigo’s Blues” (his nickname), and Jimmy Rodger’s “California Blues”. Rigney also includes the New Orleans’ sounding “Bonjour
Tristesse” and a special tribute to his mentor in “Blues for Vassar”.
The band assembled here is one of Rigney’s best as “Flambeau” includes
former Charles Brown guitarist Danny Caron; Caroline Dahl on piano,
who also contributes “Caroline’s Boogie”; and the rhythm section of
Steve Parks, electric bass; and Brent Rampone, drums. If you miss hillbilly jazz, Rigney will remind you of its tradition.
Richard Ludmerer
Contino
Back Porch Dogma
Blind Pig Records
This is a surprisingly good first album by a
band no one has ever heard of; so who are
these guys?
Pete Contino is the son of accordionist Dick Contino, most famous for
his hit “Lady of Spain”, and who appeared frequently on television and
in the movies. Pete’s mom was actress Leigh Snowden. Pete Contino is
the featured accordionist and lead vocalist in this band that honed their
music in the clubs along the Las Vegas strip. They combine the sounds
of blues, New Orleans zydeco, and Latin music, with rockabilly, country
music and jazz.
The bands name has been shortened but they previously performed and
recorded as The Pete Contino Band releasing three self produced albums
including 2008’s “Skinnytown”. The band today is basically unchanged
and consists of Pete Contino; Al Ek, guitar, harmonica, mandolin, and
vocals; Billy Truitt, keyboards; and the rhythm section of Rob Edwards,
bass; and Jim Lovgren, drums and percussion.
Nine of the thirteen tracks are originals credited to the band. They open
with the driving “Rot Gut Run”. Maria Muldaur shares a vocal duet on
the syncopated “Big Tent” which features ruitt on piano. Other highlights include “V-8 Ford”, “Zydeco Train” and “Dog Days”. The band also
infuses Tom Waits’ “Temptation” with a Spanish rhythm, and covers
“Three Cool Cats” written by Leiber and Stoller.
Although not a true Blues band “Contino” is bluesy enough for most enthusiasts. This can be attributed to Ek’s harp playing and the overall high
quality musicianship displayed. The real joy however is to hear how Pete
Contino and the band have combined their life long appreciation for the
various genre’s that make up the musical landscape called Americana.
Richard Ludmerer
Volume 37
Support our Sponsors, They Support the Blues!
Take a moment to discover our corporate members and think of them when you are doing business. They contribute much
needed funds to the organization and some even offer members discounts too. They share your love of the music and they showed
their support for it where it counts, so let’s do the same for them. Corporate Sponsors, we will be featuring your businesses in our
newsletter. You will remain here in the selected area of the newsletter for your business....plus, we will feature some members each
month. Another perk coming back atcha!
THE FRIENDLY POST OF THE
TREASURE COAST
AMERICAN LEGION POST #40
772-461-1480
810 S. U S 1
Fort Pierce, Fl 34950
Port St. Lucie
Downtown Lion’s Club
Meeting place Bristo on the Green
2nd Tuesday of every month at
11:45AM P. O. Box 9301
Port St. Lucie, FL 34985-9301
psldowntownus.lionswap.org
JAMES L. AUTIN, M.D.
Sinus –Ear- Nose- Throat Facial Plastic Surgery
Care of the Professional Voice
MUSICIAN’S SPECIAL
Includes: Consult with Dr. Autin, Video Exam of Vocal
Cords and complete Hearing Evaluation $99.00
10377 S. US #1, PSL Phone for appointment (772) 337-3700
Page 7
www.bluesalliance.org / www.myspace.com/bluesalliancetc
Ad Prices Newsletter BATC
Business Card-$25.00-----2 X 3 ½ ¼ Page-$50.00--------------4 ½ X 5 1/2 Corp. Sponsor flyers 1st time free. You print we insert.
½ Page-$75.00-------------- 5 X 8 Full Page-$150.00---------8 X 1
10% OFF Multiple Ads
BLUES ALLIANCE OF THE TREASURE COAST
MembershipApplication
Name_________________________________________
Address_______________________________________
______________________________________________
Phone_________________________________________
E-Mail ________________________________________
Instrument(s) played ____________________________
______________________________________________
Membership types and dues:
Lup-Under 21, novice, 1st year, $10.00
Student: $10 (full time student)
Individual: $20
Household: $30 (2 members same address/2 votes)
Mojo member: $40 (1 vote - free T-shirt or Hat)
Band Member: $50 (1 vote)
Corporate Member: $100 (1 vote, website and newsletter recognition)
Payable, Mail To:
Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast
P.O. Box 7192
Port Saint Lucie, Fl. 34985-7192
Hot Line: (772) 467-1851
Private/confidential