Steel Notes Magazine Winter 2017/2018

INSIDE

Winter 2017/18

FEATURED

TOTO Show Review

Lindsey Buckingham And Christine Mcvie Show Review Sands Event Center

Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan

presentz New York City Fashion Week

Luxury Cruise

Josie Around Town - Father Of Sin

Book Feature: The Hollow Man - Paul

Hollis

Julia Sommer Photos By Brian Limage

Alexxis SteelePublisher/Editor-InChief

Guido ColacciAssistant Editor

Mick ReynoldsProofreader/Copy Editor

Jeffrey HeldDesign/Layout/Cover

Weapons of Anew Show Review

Classic Album Review: Marquee Moon

100 Greatest Songs: 1960-1969

Actor Interview: Derek Oels

Save The Hippies Christmas Greeting

Josie Janci VP of Business Development

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alan Ottenstein

Bill Des Jardins

Bob Klein

Interview with Nick Douglas by Luca Cerardi

The Grouch Says: Sheba The Mississippi

Queen Album Review

The Grouch Says: LOVE IS Volume

One Music Review

Bongo Boy Record Label of the Year

Bongo Boy Artist Of The Year: Kathryn

Shipley

Kansas Pictorial Sands Event Center

Fall Foliage Pictorial

David Cassidy In Memoriam Pictorial

Brian Azar

Brian Limage

Brian Matus

Brian Smith

Dave Hummell

Derek Mitch

John Warner

Gary Preis

Larry Dell

Renee Jahnke

Ron Shirey

Sheri Bayne

Travis Eisenhard

VIDEOGRAPHERS

Lisa Koza

Larry Dell

STAFF WRITERS

Alexxis Steele

Alex Shaffner

Alessia Bastianelli

Alex Shaffner

Bob Klein

DC Ryder

Dana Saravia

Drama D

Emily Ashmore

Guido Colacchi

Inès Honig

Josie Janci

JR Muffley

JennyCat

Jerry Saravia

Johnny Gibbs

Jr Peterson

Karma Moonbeam

Kelly Mitch

Luca Cerardi

Marlowe B. West

Mick Reynolds

Mike Dorn

Monique Grimme

Nikki Palomino

Noah J Gambino

Patrick Campbell

Rex Maurice Oppenheimer

Rick Dessi

Scott Aber

Scott Saxon

Sheri Bayne

Stewart Brodian

Stormy Boz

Tanya Green

The Grouch

The Gypsy Poet

Todd Sobczak

Tony Angelo

Victor Colicchio

Yvonne Sotomayor

STATE THEATRE, EASTON PA

BY ALEXXIS STEELE

Photos By Sheri Bayne

They say that music soothes the soul... There are some bands whose music you never grow tired of hearing ... That is the case with Toto...

Almost four decades later, they prove at every show why we still love them so much. You can close your eyes and let the music bring you back to where you were at the time you first heard their songs play on the radio.

Toto is one of those bands we grew up listening to that sounds the same today as they did then, and keeps the structure of their songs intact.

My favorite Toto song- “Hold the Line” was surprisingly the second song of the evening, and got the crowd going early on in the show.

Guitarist extraordinaire, Steve Lukather, was the band’s spokesperson for the show, and proved he earned his rightful spot in the music business when he played a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s “Red House” that rocked the house!

One of the highlights of the show was when Steve introduced the many songs the band members had written for other artists. The list includes the hit song he wrote for The Tubes- “She’s A Beauty”, Cheryl Lynn’s dance hit- “ To Be Real”, and Michael Jacksons song, “ Human Nature”, to name a few.

The band ended the night with two of its most notable and top hits, “Rosanna and “Africa”, which had the fans clapping and singing along to it.

The State Theatre in Easton proved to be a more intimate experience at watching the band, rather than a larger venue. The crowd’s appreciation of the band’s performance made it evident that they gave their fans exactly what they wanted to hear, by their very vocal cheers, claps, and singing along to the music.

the show, we hung out with Steve Lukather backstage, and did a Facebook Live interview with him. Much to my surprise, we also ran into fellow rocker, Ted Poley, Frontman for Danger Danger while we were there.

We look forward to seeing Steve and the band again when they get back to town as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary in 2018. Until then, time to get out the cd’s and find out more about what Toto is doing at:

https://www.facebook.com/totoband

http://www.toto99.com

http://totoofficial.com

Alexxis

A Night with McVie and Buckingham

Sands Event Center – Bethlehem, PA August 11th 2017

By Jenny Cat / Photos by Dave Hummel

Known best for their solid contributions to epic supergroup, Fleetwood Mac, Lindsey Buckingham and Christine McVie presented their latest musical collaboration, simply titled, Lindsey Buckingham Christine McVie in concert during the last leg of their supporting tour.

The show opened with Buckingham performing a heavy, guitar-rich version of his song, "Trouble." McVie soon joined in as the duo went on to play a historic Fleetwood Mac tune, "Wish You Were Here." McVie's voice was in

true, well-rounded form and Buckingham's guitar playing was flawless and flashy, per usual.

McVie promptly went into old school song territory with, "Hold Me," which sounded sweeter live than in the original recording. McVie and Buckingham kicked into, "Little Lies." Buckingham's driving guitar only complemented the higher register of McVie's voice, which sounds true, real, and perfect given the fact that she is in her 70's and still rocking.

"Tusk" made the crowd hoot and holler louder and harder than any other moment

in the concert and one has to ponder if McVie and Buckingham truly enjoy playing that song as it is the most outlandish and ostentatious tune in their repertoire, but the people love it and you gotta give them what they want!

"You Make Loving Fun" caused rampant outbreaks of spontaneous dancing among the members of the crowd as they were clearly not fazed by the lack of fullness from McVie's typically warm voice.

After clearing the Fleetwood Mac hits from the set, the duo went on to play songs from their newest album. "In My World" was most definitely a McVie styled composition as it contained the melodic elegance the singer/writer is best known for while songs, "Sleeping Around The Corner," and "Feel About You" sent vibes of early "Rumors" era Fleetwood Mac magic. Never disappointing, "Too Far Gone" was rocking thanks to Buckingham's driving guitar and gritty energy. "Love Is Here To Stay" and "Red Sun" painted images of romantic hopefulness and melodic fluidity conveyed expertly by Buckingham's high-tone vocal register and echoed guitar.

The duo closed the show with two new songs, "Lay Down For Free" and "Game of Pretend" but not after playing the crowd-pleasing anthem, "Go Your Own Way."

The new album, Lindsey Buckingham Christine McVie is a testament to the power and skill behind one of rock and roll's most exciting and tumultuous bands and the new songs can easily stand alongside those classic hits.

(Photos continued on next page)

Ladies and Gentlemen and Children of All Ages ... I am your Ring Leader ... My name is Marlowe B West ... I am happy and proud to announce that since the inception of Steel Notes Magazine I have contributed stories and interviews derived from my constant quest of bringing you, my beloved readers and fans, the most colourful, interesting, entertaining and valuable people, places and events that cross my path in my treasure hunt search throughout New York City as Steel Note Magazine's Star Reporter in my monthly column entitled Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan.

It is in my opinion that the most interesting and important person in the Fashion World is not the big name designer or even the World's Top Model, it's the person who represents and promotes them. This brings us to my Friend, New York City Fashion Show Coordinator and Entrepreneur, Eric Vega. I was naturally honoured to receive an invitation to his New York City Fashion Week Luxury Cruise. Knowing the dashing Mr. Vega, I anticipated the most glamourous, glittering and memorable event. I got decked out to the nines and was not disappointed in the least. The glorious three hour, three floor Hornblower Luxury Yacht Cruise pulled out from Pier 40 at 8pm.

The Hudson River glimmered magically in the radiant light of an awesome full moon surrounded by the magnificence of the New York City skyline which looked like a zillion diamonds set in gold. "Te Adoro, NYC." It was absolutely dreamy meeting Lady Liberty, passing by Governors Island, Ellis Island, going under Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges. While four distinguished Fashion Designers were featured. Ola Hawatmeh, Fantasia Loredana Veneziana, Gigi Carnett and male designer Jude Charles, whose more than 30 gorgeous models paraded up and down the crowded Cat Walk set on the top floor of the Yacht Beneath the Stars with Celebrity mixologist DJ Chris Landry. Thanx Zillionzzz 2 Eric Vega 4 a job well done and greatly appreciated.

Adam Z Lein New York Fashion Week Hudson Yacht Cruise Gallery One

Adam Z Lein New York Fashion Week Hudson Yacht Cruise Gallery Two

2017 Fantasia Veneziana Fashion Show Yatch in

the Houdson

Father of Sin Makers of Masterful Metal

Lehigh Valley local band Father of Sin has a 15 year tenure and the experience certainly shows.  The 6 person band consists of lead vocalist and band founder.  Dex Shellhammer, his cofounder, guitarist Brian Blashock. Metal queen and 10 year F.O.S. veteran, bassist Dena Due, as well as guitarist Cory Solt, who has been shredding with the band since 2004.  Mike Owens, guitarist and Greg Guarini, drummer are the new kids on the block-around a year for them. Looking at those stats it's easy to see why the band plays like a well-oiled machine.  The chemistry is solid and the metal is memorable.

They have a very identifiable sound in vocalist Dex Shellhammers growling expression.  He alternates heavy thrashing guttural vocals with deep melodies assisted by Dena Due in some of my favorite songs.  The contrast of the vocals mimics the surprise of the heavy guitar riffs and drums to the specifically melodic bass and secondary guitars (no rhythm by any means...all leads if you ask me)  The song composition isn't typical metal either, the

BY JOSIE JANCI

guitar riffs and heavy strings are still there and forefront percussion exists but the stops in the songs are clever and the vocals are like an instrument in and of themselves.  Here's a video of a song on their 5th CD "Melody Black" called Blight of My LIfe (see what they did there with the title??? hahaha)

Their performance is powerful and dark; lending itself perfectly to the Goth metal they lean towards.  There are so many subgenres of metal it's hard to choose just one to describe F.O.S but Goth- thrash metal seems to work! The guitars are fabulous with Dena's single bass guitar mixing in just fine with the three six string guitars to create a thick layered sound.  The drums are oft times off-beat adding complexity to the composition that is darkly pleasing.  But nothing stops the show like Dex's deep growling vocals.  Dex can do "scream-o" if he wants or harmonize with the other vocalists in the band (which, by the way would be everyone but the drummer, cuz we all know that drummers don't do mics)

https://www.reverbnation.com/fatherofsin/song/17145430-blight=my-life-frommelody-black

(Article Continued on next page)

but whatever he chooses to do, it's done well.  And, for the record, he looks the part, right down to his black eyeliner.  (Scalding hot, ladies....check out the photos)

They are currently recording their 6th CD and playing some local gigs as well. Show them some love and download a song from reverb.  And next time they play in your town - put them on your calendarbecause if you like your metal, you'll enjoy Father of Sin, if you don't, go see Father of Sin, they just might change your mind about metal music.

JULIA SOMMER

PHOTOS BY BRIAN LIMAGE

Julia Sommer, a 17 year old singer-songwriter, from the Lehigh Valley is currently a senior at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts. As early as 8 years old, Julia started writing her own songs. She expressed an interest in learning guitar so her parents enrolled her in The School of Rock and there she took guitar, vocal and drum lessons for three years.

Earlier this year Julia was awarded the "Discover Lehigh Valley's DISCOVERED ARTIST Award. She was honored to accept the invitation to perform at the Levitt Pavillion Music Awards Winners Preview Weekend in May. Many other wonderful opportunities have afforded her to perform at venues such as the Highline Ballroom in New York City, Hotel Bethlehem, and The Sands Event Center. Most recently, she performed on several stages at Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA, doing solo shows as well as sharing the stage with her father, Werner Sommer, also a musician.

Recent highlights include auditions for American Idol and NBC’s The Voice. Her first studio audition in Philadelphia landed her a 2nd call back in New York City. She also performed at music industry events that included Launch Music Conference and a Singer-Songwriter Conference where she debuted several originals.

She is currently working on recording her first EP of her original songs which will feature her signature powerhouse vocals. Future

performance dates will include both local and national dates. Tentative dates include a few international appearances for 2018!

Social Media Links: www.juliasommer.rocks

https://www.facebook.com/juliasommerofficial

https://www.instagram.com/juliasommerr

Weapons of Anew

collision of love and hate”

New release from the band from New Jersey is stellar!

Remember when you first heard Limp Biscuit or Linkin Park and how they combined music styles of metal and hip hop? Remember thinking “wow, that works!” Well that’s how I felt when I first heard Weapons of Anew. (correlation simply for the sake of example not similarity) Their music has a style that is beautifully rich while still remaining true to the basics of heavy metal music. It’s loud, it’s fast, it has tough lyrics and a bluesy undertone…but they are playing heavy metal music with sophisticated hooks and melodies that catch you pleasantly off guard and demand that you pay attention! And DON’T GET ME STARTED ON THE ENERGY….

Their upcoming release, The Collision of Love and Hate is a freshman masterpiece. The surprising melodies caught my attention first but it was the “texture” of the music that impressed me most. The killer guitar riffs, coupled with the low end bass lines

and the constant beat and crash of the drums are; by design, responsible for the thick quality of the music in every song. Vocalist, Ray West, has a wide vocal range, a pleasingly distinctive tone and a clarity to his vox that is superb. The 5 song release has harmonies, hooks and energy galore. I’d be hard pressed to name my favorite – but I don’t really need to choose just one…and neither do you. On Sept. 15th you can hear the entire album and on Sept. 19th you can go to Reading to see them open for Tesla! Check out their website for more info – www.weaponsofanew.com

(Continued Next Page)

“The

CD Review by Josie Janci, Steel Notes Magazine and Steel Waves Radio

WEAPONS OF ANEW LAUNCH NEW VIDEO SERIES: CREATING "THE COLLISION OF LOVE AND HATE" PART 7: AWAKE

NEW YORK - Weapons of Anew, the dynamic new band that features Freddy Ordine (guitars), Ray West (vocals), Stefan "Reno" Cutrupi (bass), Chris Manfre (drums), and Kris Norris (guitars) have launched a new weekly multi-part video series. The series can be viewed from the band's website and YouTube channel.

Part 7- Awake, "...an attempt to reach your higher power, awakening to life..."Ray West

https://youtu.be/FIiwPqqFS2E

Previous shows:

Part 6 - Blood From Stone, what did it take?

https://youtu.be/BzhWzXaXMZA

Part 5: Speed, the band looks at creating the second cut https://youtu.be/Dlt0eGUVeiI

Part 4: Killshot, the band starts to break down each song from their release, starting with the first single and video - Killshot https://youtu.be/-CrlBgVNz4s

Here's the music video for Killshot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNg-4pNrjEQ

Part 3: The First Tour, Weapons of Anew talk about their debut tour opening for Alter Bridge earlier this year. https://youtu.be/XehCyT_K7iw

Part 2: Recording An Album, the band works through the recording of their debut album, " The Collision of Love and Hate"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRU1dpN8Ndk

Part 1: Becoming Weapons of Anew, explores the birth of Weapons of Anew. https://youtu.be/ZQC2DBQGF0Q

Weapons of Anew, "The Collision of Love and Hate" is out now on OK Good Records.

iTunes: http://apple.co/2jlm7Uw

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5R0OVG2ukQqyRoqnL2bUbC

Amazon: http://a.co/2DS1SLR

Google Play: http://bit.ly/2eSMcW2

Bandcamp: https://okgoodrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-collision-of-love-and-hate

Weapons of Anew Members: Ray West, frontman, Vocalist

Freddy Ordine – guitarist

Stefan “Reno” Cutrupi – bassist

Chris Manfre – drummer

Kris Norris – new guitarist

But until then – here’s one video to tide you over https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=MNg-4pNrjEQ

Classic Album Review: MARQUEE MOON

Artist: Television

Genre: Art Punk, Art Rock

Released: February 8, 1977

Producer: Andy Johns, Tom Verlaine

Label: Elektra

Key Tracks: See No Evil, Venus, Marquee Moon, Guiding Light, Torn Curtain

Punk has never been one of the more "artistic" or "sophisticated" genres to ever come forth. I mean, a few chords and an aggressive attitude isn't the most creative and satisfying experience. Now that's obviously quite an oversimplification on my part and I certainly enjoy the Sex Pistols and Ramones.

Obviously a band like The Clash would evolve past their early punk beginnings to create bigger and better things. What if you could create that tension and personality with dazzling guitar work, jazz-like drumming with thought-provoking and poetic lyrics? I present to you: Marquee Moon.

Television was one of the many notable artists to emerge from the New York Punk/New Wave music scene. Talking Heads, Ramones, Blondie, Patti Smith, you name it. By the mid 70s they were gaining interest from various record labels. In fact in late 1974, Television worked with Roxy Music alum Brian Eno to produce four songs, however, frontman Tom Verlaine did not approve of the sound he had created for the band. They would eventually sign with Elektra Records in August 1976 and began recording Marquee Moon soon after, finishing by the end of September. Tom Verlaine was adamant that he would self-produce the album, but Elektra wanted at least a "well known" recording engineer to assist him. He enlisted Andy Johns, who was chief engineer and mixer for The Rolling Stones' album "Goats Head Soup".

I think I've covered what I need to by this point, so let's dive into the music of "Marquee Moon". I'm going to be quite honest, this will be pretty difficult to put into words as this album is a very "alien" experience. (An incredible one, though) In punk spirit it starts off with an energetic and rhythmic three chord rocker, "See

Review by Alex shaffner

No Evil". I feel like I’m going to say this repeatedly in this review, but the guitar and drum work is simply dazzling on this one. I couldn’t imagine playing this live, let alone recording it in a studio. “I SEE NO”. Not much else to say other than this is an excellent rock & roll opener. “Venus", hits you instantly. (Well, probably because the song starts into the main riff instantly, but you get my point.) An anthemic track, the guitars bubble, soar, glide, twist, turn, start, stop, and who knows what else. If you want instant gratification, this is your tune. And it’s not shallow in the slightest. This song might cause an epiphany for you, I’m not exaggerating. And I haven’t even mentioned the drumming. I simply love how the drums and cymbals crash and roll. It’s like some kind of marching band interpretation. On vocals, Tom sounds sad but reassured. Seems like a romance that didn’t work out. But perhaps it was for the better. I just love this track to the absolute maximum.

Eventually we get to the album's centerpiece (and masterpiece), "Marquee Moon". This long, epic, artistic and nearly eleven minute adventure has so much tension and mystery behind it. You can just feel it. The guitars are struck with such weight, the bass bounces with such warmth, and the drums are hit with such aggression yet precision and touch; it really is an unbelievable experience. At about the 4:27 mark, the song lets the foot off the pedal so to speak and for approximately four minutes builds and builds and builds until eventually it releases (get ready for some hyperbole) into what’s arguably the single most beautiful sound humanity has ever produced in a song. The glittering, otherworldly guitars just sparkle like some kind of fantasy, and somehow it feels sad, like I want to comfort it and never let go. It feels as though the song is over at that point, but guess what! It's not! It continues on and ends with a fading piano, marking the end of this particular journey.

“Elevation”, which is great, is yet another surreal and alien experience. It has the typical album’s attributes of brilliant guitar work, a strong personality, weighty instrumentation and cryptic lyrics but what really surprised me was what the guitar riff was. Now, when you listen to it for the first time, you’ll recognize it imme-

diately. I feel like not saying what it closely resembles to surprise you but I’m doing an insightful review here so I guess I’ll keep talking. The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song “Californication” (or its main riff) is a pretty big rip of “Elevation”. No two ways about it. “Marquee Moon” was of course heavily inspirational and influential on Post-Punk/Alternative music and specifically on various individuals like R.E.M’s Michael Stipe, U2’s The Edge, Echo & The Bunnymen’s Will Sergeant and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ John Frusciante. Seems like Mr. Frusciante took that inspiration a little too far. But hey, I won’t hate him for it and won’t be a hypocrite as I love other “rip-off” songs. (See Killing Joke’s “Eighties” vs. Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” and Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” vs. Pulp’s “Disco 2000”)

“Guiding Light” is such a sweet and uplifting song and is “Art” music without out a doubt. Trust me, this is no lightweight affair. The intricate yet simple guitar and piano playing are just stunning and later in the track you can here some beautiful organ work. I can just effortlessly move my hands and fingers around to the song. (Yes, I really do this) Like the title track it features captivating and glittering guitar bits that are so ever exciting. I didn’t think vocal melodies and chord progressions could exist like this. Often underrated and overlooked, “Guiding Light” is certainly a highlight for me. "Torn Curtain" is a brilliant album closer. The slithering, almost tribal-like guitar riff of the main verse is so tantalizing. Then the chorus, where Tom Verlaine and backing members shout out words of pure anguish and sadness. “Tears, Tears, Tears” and “years I've seen before/tears I've never shed." I won’t blame you if you tear up even a little bit. Not just the vocalists, but the guitars sound like they themselves are crying out near the end of the track, letting out everything the band and its instruments have.

I've often wondered the true meaning of this song. All over the album, Tom Verlaine likes to play around with lyrics, much like Bob Dylan before him. I will take a guess and say this is about his (or someone else’s) childhood. To me, it seems like Tom is talking about an abusive father towards his mother after perhaps they get into an argument. “when beauty meets abuse” In my mind I can literally picture a curtain being torn in a house where this abuse or fighting takes place. Very powerful stuff. Again, I’m not totally sure, but that is my interpretation. And when music AND lyrics are this incredible, it provides an amazing experience. Though not absolutely necessary, I usually think more highly of an album

when its closer is an album highlight.

I feel the two weakest songs on here are “Friction” and “Prove It”. Their groove, personality and rhythm aren’t simply as strong, captivating, breathtaking and memorable as the other six. They still have impressive instrumental work of course and are certainly well above average and are absolutely worth your time. Remember I said weakest, not worst. Hell, I might be underrating them! (You thought I was going to really badmouth a song on here?) In the end, what impresses me the most about this record is how calculated it is, yet it sounds so loose and “human”. How can a rock band of four guys (along with help from mixers, engineers, and producers of course) capture such brilliance, complexity and depth in a record and for lack of a better phrase, just flat out nail it? Blows my mind every single time. I often wonder what REALLY draws me so much to this album outside of what I’ve already talked about. Like I’ve said, there are many cryptic lyrics, so more often than not, I’m not completely sure about the “true” meaning of the songs. To me, it gives off a strange atmosphere and conveys a weird and funny place that seems very inviting, in a place I want to live. (but only after my lease is up on my apartment)

Their 1978 follow-up “Adventure” is kind of an oxymoron considering it saw them retreat from the personality and uniqueness of “Marquee Moon” in favor of something more conventional and less ambitious. It’s still a solid record, so give that a listen as well. So, how about it, why not take a stroll underneath the Marquee Moon? This case is closed.

Record Rating: 10/10

1970s Album Rank: #1

All-Time Album Rank: #3

100 Greatest Songs: 1960-1969

by Alex shaffner

The 1960s was a decade of change. Not just musically, but politically and socially as well. It's fascinating to witness evolution in music. I mean, could ANYONE have seen the psychedelic era coming in 1962? There's one artist above all that dominated this decade. I'm sure you've heard of them. The Crickets? No, sorry that's not it. Ah, that's right, The Beatles. The four lads from Liverpool that changed music forever and easily the greatest artist of the 20th century. But they weren't the only "British Invasion" band that made their mark. Artists like The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks and The Zombies all made significant music throughout the decade.

But what about the good ol' US of A? Of course since rock music was created in the US, there's plenty of great American artists. Bob Dylan led the pack in that department, delivering some of the greatest songs ever and two of the twenty greatest albums ever in "Highway 61 Revisited" and "Blonde on Blonde". He's on my musical Mt. Rushmore for sure. He along with The Beatles and The Beach Boys helped change Rock and Pop from "entertainment" into "art" with their releases from 1965 to 1967. Some people don't like this truth and often turn up their nose at "Progressive" and "Art" Rock and Pop as being "pretentious" or "boring". Their loss, I say.

So white guys playing guitar of course wasn't the only great thing to come from this wonderful time in music. We saw the rise of four of the greatest and most recognizable black artists ever in Jimi Hendrix, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder. Though the latter three artists' prime were in the decades that followed, it's interesting to observe their beginnings. In the Jazz world, it gave way to Rock and Pop as the dominant music genres by the middle of the decade, but there wasn't a shortage of Jazz classics. John Coltrane and Charles Mingus both released their greatest achievement, "A Love Supreme" and "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady", respectively. And we surely can't ignore the lovely Girl Groups during this time. Trust me, at best, this isn't mediocre "teen" pop in the slightest. The Supremes? I'll take them over most rock bands. And the single greatest pop song of all-time? From the Girl Group genre. I rest my case.

I could go on and on about talking about this era. We have never seen music change more drastically from the beginning to end of a decade than the 60s. I feel though as I can safely say that when you look at popular music, the 60s was without a doubt the pinnacle in quality. So let's get psychedelic and take a look at the best songs the decade had to offer.

1) A Day In the Life - The Beatles

2) Be My Baby - The Ronettes

3) Like a Rolling Stone - Bob Dylan

4) God Only Knows - The Beach Boys

5) Gimme Shelter - The Rolling Stones

6) I Want You Back - Jackson 5

7) Hey Jude - The Beatles

8) All Along the Watchtower - The Jimi Hendrix Experience

9) Waterloo Sunset - The Kinks

10) Desolation Row - Bob Dylan

11) My Favorite Things - John Coltrane

12) Tomorrow Never Knows - The Beatles

13) Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys

14) Sympathy For the Devil - The Rolling Stones

15) My Generation - The Who

16) I’m Waiting For the Man - The Velvet Underground

17) Strawberry Fields Forever - The Beatles

18) River Deep Mountain High - Tina & Ike Turner

19) I Wanna Be Your Dog - The Stooges

20) The Boxer - Simon & Garfunkel

21) Light My Fire - The Doors

22) A Hard Day's Night - The Beatles

23) The Weight - The Band

24) Just Like a Woman - Bob Dylan

25) While My Guitar Gently WeepsThe Beatles

26) Shangri-La - The Kinks

27) Paint It Black - The Rolling Stones

28) A Change Is Gonna Come - Sam

Cooke

29) Whole Lotta Love - Led Zeppelin

30) In My Life - The Beatles

31) Jumpin' Jack Flash - The Rolling Stones

32) Heroin - The Velvet Underground

33) Care of Cell 44 - The Zombies

34) I Want to Hold Your Hand - The Beatles

35) Green Onions - Booker T. & The M.G.'s

36) The Court of the Crimson King - King Crimson

37) She Loves You - The Beatles

38) Miserlou - Dick Dale & His Del-Tones

39) Sweet Thing - Van Morrison

40) Group Dancers - Charles Mingus

41) I Want You - Bob Dylan

42) Eleanor Rigby - The Beatles

43) A Whiter Shade of Pale - Procol Harum

44) Hey Joe - The Jimi Hendrix Experience

45) Sunday Morning - The Velvet Underground & Nico

46) (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction - The Rolling Stones

47) Wouldn't It Be Nice - The Beach Boys

48) Babe I'm Gonna Leave You - Led Zeppelin

49) Help! - The Beatles

50) Papa's Got a Brand New Bag - James Brown

51) The House of the Rising Sun - The Animals

52) What Goes On - The Velvet Underground

53) Stand By Me - Ben E. King

54) You Can't Always Get What You Want - The Rolling Stones

55) California Girls - The Beach Boys

56) Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End - The Beatles

57) Suzanne - Leonard Cohen

58) Subterranean Homesick Blues - Bob Dylan

59) Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds - The Beatles

60) Don't Worry Baby - The Beach Boys

61) Venus In Furs - The Velvet Underground & Nico

62) Rain - The Beatles

63) She's Not There - The Zombies

64) Respect - Aretha Franklin

65) I Can See For Miles - The Who

66) Purple Haze - The Jimi Hendrix Experience

67) You Can't Hurry Love - The Supremes

68) Visions of Johanna - Bob Dylan

69) I Heard It Through the Grapevine - Marvin Gaye

70) Heroes and Villains - The Beach Boys

71) Come Together - The Beatles

72) The Tracks of My Tears - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles

73) Space Oddity - David Bowie

74) Eight Miles High - The Byrds

75) Runaway - Del Shannon

76) The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine

Anymore - The Walker Brothers

77) Mr. Tambourine Man - Bob Dylan

78) Reach Out I'll Be There - The Four Tops

79) California Dreamin' - The Mamas & The Papas

80) You Really Got Me - The Kinks

81) (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay - Otis Redding

82) White Light/White Heat - The Velvet Underground

83) Leader of the Pack - The Shangri-Las

84) Suspicious Minds - Elvis Presley

85) I Am the Walrus - The Beatles

86) Fortunate Son - Creedence Clearwater Revival

87) Blowin' In the Wind - Bob Dylan

88) 21st Century Schizoid Man - King Crimson

89) The Sound of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel

90) Louie Louie - The Kingsmen

91) The Girl From Ipanema - Stan Getz, João Gilberto & Astrud

Gilberto

92) Ballad of a Thin Man - Bob Dylan

93) Everyday People - Sly & The Family Stone

94) With a Little Help From My Friends - The Beatles

95) You Keep Me Hangin' On - The Supremes

96) Peaches en Regalia - Frank Zappa

97) White Rabbit - Jefferson Airplane

98) Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands - Bob Dylan

99) The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - The Band

100) A Love Supreme, Pt. 4: Psalm - John Coltrane

Staff Member Spotlight: ACTOR DEREK OELS

people from walks all over and would love to make it to the big screen. He has been in a few independent films, a commercial, many short films and student films.

He attended Allen- town Business School for Graphic Design for about a year until transferring to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and majoring in Liberal Arts and minoring in film production. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Art.

Derek Oels was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania but was raised in Emmaus, Pennsylvania about an hour from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He first got his break acting as a main bad zombie in the 2008 independent film "Tues-

day Morning" directed by Luke Ramer. Then he made a film called "Nightmares of the Dark" back in 2013 which wasn't even released due to the lack of funds. He also was in a Warner Bros Pictures documentary about the future of our climate change. He also filmed a feature film called "As It Comes" in 2016-2017. He has also had been in short films including: The Call, Driveway Light, Strictly Business,  and a peanut butter and jelly commercial.

He hopes to gain respect from fellow actors, networking, socializing, meeting interesting

While in college, he was on the college football team and was in the Phi Kappa Sigma. Oels is definitely a star in the rise. With the right part, Oels would knock it out of the park.

Luca Cerardi Interview with Nick Douglas

What does playing bass mean to you? What do you feel?

It's a voice and a way of expression without using verbal words. It's my first love, a very good friend, and a choice that I'm glad I made. When I was young, I was a shy kid, and the bass allowed me to speak (rather loudly I’d say). It has a beautiful sound too.

When did you realize that playing bass was going to be a big part of your life? And when was it that you thought you could actually be a professional musician?

I am still trying to figure that out! Well, I think it was a slow realization. I understood that I could make a living by being a musician, but I have always been aware that this is a career that can disappear in any moment. It is humbling. When I was a teenager, I didn't realize all the consequences of that choice. At that young age I was not weighing myself down with doubts and "what ifs". I was determined to start playing and recording to reach success, but I didn't know exactly how. When I was 20, I recorded my first record, and I felt a great sense of

accomplishment. I just wanted to keep the momentum going.

If you hadn’t succeeded as a professional musician, what would you have done? In other

words, what other passions do you have in addition to music?

Well, I was going to Architecture school, so that might have been my future. I also like Astronomy and Meteorology. When I'm at home, I also love to cook. Nothing too extravagant. Simple, healthy food.

That's tough to answer, as there have been so many people along the way. In the early days, my first teacher was very inspiring. I wanted to be like him. Also my brother John. So many band mates and the parents of band mates that supported us. Other musicians and bands like Steve Harris, Jaco Pastorius, Pink Floyd, Paul McCartney and Judas Priest and many more. Of course Doro is a huge inspiration and great teacher to me, thank you Doro! Also, the legendary Phil Chen who played bass for Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart, and now plays for Robby Krieger of The Doors.

What about turning points in your career or a specific person that changed your life?

Do you remember your first gig?

Yes! Well, it wasn't really a gig, but it was my first time playing on a stage. It was an audition for a talent show, which was over an hour drive from where we used to live. We had something like a 3-minute time limit, but our songs were typically much longer than that. So we just started playing, and of course went over the time limit. One of the judges ended up having to run toward the front of the stage, waving his hands at us so that we would stop. I think we kept going a little longer, then finally stopped. Needless to say, we were disqualified from the talent show. But, hey, at least we got to play as much as we wanted!

Have you always had the support of your famil y over the course of the years?

Well, not so much in the beginning. When it became evident that my interest was more with music than with architecture (I still liked architecture, though), it was met with some resistance. But I kept going with it. And one day, I went home holding a record that had my face on the back cover. I showed it to my mom, and I think that’s when she realized that I was really determined to do this.

Who inspired you the most along your career?

Once again I would say being with Doro and the band. I've also been going to church often, and that has given me peace.

I suppose you met a lot of people over the years. Who deserves a big thanks for the mu sician and man you have become?

It would be hard to pin down just one person, but I will say Doro, since I learned so much from her.

Day 1 of your career and today: how have you changed over the course of your career?

I used to look at my life as fun and I did not feel like I had big responsibilities. But along the way, I realized two things. First, music is a business after all, and it requires a good strategy to stay in it. Second, so many people are affected by music, in a good way, and I started feeling honored to have such a role for them. I understood I definitely had some responsibilities. I feel like I’m a happy servant. That’s what it is all about.

You always played rock music. What was it that drove you towards this musical genre?

It was probably due to the influence of my older brother and friends when I was growing up. They were into heavy metal and hard rock. Also, there is a lot of energy coming out of rock/metal, I really felt it inside me. Nowadays, I listen to all

music genres, softer and more intense , and tend not to classify music as much. Maybe that comes from my experience in songwriting, and from knowing how personal a song can be.

able to start over, and not giving up. It’s about moving to a better understanding of life. I feel like the songs came to me like gifts, little opportunities to explain something. And I was able to capture them and record them. I started writing "You Break" in 2001, and "Come Alive" was written in the Summer and Autumn of 2016, just before delivering the album to the record label. So it happened in the span of about 15 years. I would write and record any time I had the chance, ability and/or inspiration. There were times when I didn't know if I'd ever have enough songs to complete an album, but I kept going, and I'm glad I did.

What kind of music is most appealing to you nowadays?

You have been playing with Doro for such a long time. What does this band mean to you?

In a word, family. We have seen and been through a lot together. Just like family.

How would you describe the “Queen of Metal”? One word to define your experience with the band?

The Queen of Metal is the legend that carries the torch of heavy metal, and is so deservedly respected. One word to describe my experience with the Doro band: adventure. Also, I never stop learning with them, which is great.

You just released your second solo album: “Regenerations”. Introspective music, softer sounds, cool arrangements. Can you describe the project, its origins and its meaning? How long did it take you from the beginning to completion (release date)?

It's autobiographical and represents the changes I went through during making it. It allows me to express things that I would not have been able to express in any other way. The title "Regenerations" refers to the concept of being

I'm really into lyrics and storytelling. It doesn't really matter what genre it is. As long as the words and sounds are compelling, I'll like it. Songs can cure the soul, when you hear them at the right moment.

Many years playing, long tours… How have you been keeping up with the rock-star lifestyle from a physical perspective?

When we first started touring I was younger, I could handle heavy traveling, and not getting a lot of sleep. As time went on, my body started to give small signs of physical tiredness, and I had to adapt. I try to eat healthier, and rest as much as possible. The priority is my performance on stage, I want to have as much energy as I can for that.

Live or studio?

Both give some kind of satisfaction that the other doesn't. But I will say that, since I have a home studio, I really enjoy spending time writing, recording and mixing.

What’s your relationship with the past? Do you like to talk about your memories and experiences, or do you prefer to stay focused on the present and keep looking forward?

I usually prefer to look forward and not look back. I'm not too sentimental. I like to think of what I can do next.

Best memory on the road and/or more in general during your musical career?

I have one of each. For the general one, when I met my half-sister for the first time in 1994. Coincidentally, she lives in Germany, and I happen to be in Germany often, playing for Doro. Martina is her name, she is so cool, nice, and a great friend. As for the memory on the road, when Klaus Meine and Rudolf Schenker came onstage during Doro's 25th Anniversary show in Düsseldorf. I got to play "Big City Nights" and "Rock You Like A Hurricane" alongside Rudolf!

What’s the status of the music business in your opinion?

It changed a lot over the years, but not in every aspect. I think bands/artists and their audiences have a closer connection to each other compared to 26 years ago. And although record sales are not what they used to be, technology has been helping incredibly in expanding recording possibilities. It's an exciting time to make music. One thing that instead always feels the same is the experience of watching a live performance. That just doesn't seem upgradeable.

Social media and technology. A lot has changed from the day rock music started. How do you feel about them? Have th ey helped or damaged musicians?

It depends, both I guess. When I was growing up, bands seemed to be larger-than-life, untouchable entities. This made me want to get to know more about them, and I kept buying their records. Surely there were less ways to access a band. For example, we had to wait until the next monthly issue of a music magazine to see if the band we liked was written about. Today, I feel like social media cuts down the mystery of a band. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It depends on how you look at it. As far as technology goes, like

I said before, I think it's an exciting time to make music. There is so much we can do because of all the technological advancements that have happened recently.

You explored the world touring with Doro. What is the one thing you miss every time you go back home?

Pancakes, ha ha! I like pancakes at American diners.

If you had the chance, whom else would you like to play music with?

Well, I enjoy the guys I play with now, but let's see...I'd like to write, jam or record with Alice Cooper or Chris Rea.

How do you see yourself 10 years fro m now? Dreams, hopes, projects?

Hopefully, still doing what I am doing now. Writing songs, playing bass, just being happy, and making others happy. And having a house that I can build a little studio in.

Album Review by The Grouch

(from Sweden, now in The Rockies)

Hej America!

The other day the good people at Bongo Boy asked me to give a listen to, and share my thoughts regarding a new album from Sheba The Mississippi Queen. In total honesty, I could not remember if I had ever heard of Sheba The Mississippi Queen, but I have heard (It was one of the first songs I learned to play on the drums) the song Mississippi Queen by Mountain. If Sheba rocks with anything close to the intensity of Leslie West and his band, I am sure I will dig this album immensely. The title of the album is: A Real Good Woman and the release date is November 1, 2017.

Song titles:

1. Oh So Good 3:12 – YES! I love this stuff. This, folks, is the fire that spread to Chicago and burnt down the city. It wasn’t Mrs. O’Leary’s cow that started the fire; it was the Mississippi blues that migrated north. I am in musical heaven – what a voice!! What lightning from the band. They are blistering really. Fantastic work.

2. Pourin’ Rain 4:08 – So heavy, so gritty, so thundering, I LOVE IT. The horns remind me of Motown, and having been raised in the Motor City I cannot help but to be influenced by the magic Berry Gordy was making on West Grand. This song has a huge Motown vibe that leads straight back to Mississippi.

3. Big Man 4:03 – Man, track three and my mind is already blown. If the hypnotic groove doesn’t infect you, then the vocals surely will. Man, you can just feel the power of the notes. Good God, Sheba has a killer voice. I want to party with the Queen.

4. Real Good Woman 6:22 – This is a traditional story telling blues jam that can easily be extended indefinitely. Sheba tells us that she is armed and dangerous and that her problem is she just cannot find a good man. I am enjoying listening to the qualities she considers necessary to be classified as a good man. Of course, as nice as the vocals are, it is also nice to hear that Sheba has a collection of Monsters who all have her back. This band is comprised of monster players and they do not turn the intensity down for a moment. Oh, the volume may fluctuate, but the intensity is at a constant 11.

5. Ms. Good-n-Plenty 3:32 – Sheba is rather proudly sharing some very intimate details of her relationship with her domestic partner. (Trying to keep the description clean as I do not know exactly where this review will end up, but it could be noted that Sheba has an exceptional level of stamina is rather adventurous.) Oh yeah, and the music was really good too ����

6. Butter on My Rolls 3:47 – I just love this stuff. It is so grinding and primal. The blues is such an emotional powerhouse. Sheba is considering obtaining the services of a Witch Doctor because her rolls are not receiving enough butter from her current cohabitant.

7. Tell Me Why 5:44 – Ahhh yes, funky bass with a groovy drummer set the tone while the guitar blasts in and out and the keys make a statement off to the side. I love this song. Sheba’s voice belts out stunningly powerful notes and the band continues to jam. The drummer is getting a work-out. I hear some very nice, thundering fills. The piano is mesmerizing. He just pops in and out from the side and instantly has my attention. I must see this band live!

8. Dance Jump Shout 3:17 – Fast tempo with horns and guitars all making statements while the rhythm section lays down a very quick, very intense rhythm. The guitar can’t take it anymore and busts out into a massive jam. Sheba comes back in with some commanding vocals and the guitar is right there at the end of each phrase, ready to shoot a bolt of lightn ing. WOW!

9. Good Good Lovin 6:01 – Sheba is back, talking about Rocking and Rolling and Riding a Pony…as the title suggests Sheba wants some good good lovin’. Musically, all the elements of

classic blues are here. The jamming band, complete with horns and keys, a guitar player that can throw lightning bolts whenever he wants to, and a rhythm section than is totally locked in. Listen to these lyrics! It just hit me Sheba is a black female David Lee Roth.

10. Hey Girlfriend 5:02 – I like the beat the drummer lays down in the beginning of the song and how everyone else comes in and picks up the groove. This is a very intense song, in many ways. On one level, Sheba is telling a woman that she has been spending time with the other woman’s man. Musically, the song is incredibly intense. Each member is in full-on jam mode. The drummer is filling while the bass player is running a funky pattern and the keys jam and the guitar gets funky which accentuates the horns. Overall, this song is a massive BLAST of energy.

11. Blues of My Soul 7:05 – This is Sheba’s coming out of Mississippi track. She heard some very nice slide work after she left Mississippi and was instantly emotionally brought back to life on the Delta. She spent a lot of time picking cotton, which is an incredibly physically devastating activity. The one respite was listening to Mr. John playing his slide guitar off on the porch. The refrain becomes that “My Grandma would say (the bus is) goin’ my way, but it ain’t my day.” One night, Sheba’s mother made her escape. Eventually, her mother did return for her and the family headed for Florida.

12. Don't Say Goodbye 5:54 – This is simply a beautiful song. Sheba is singing about someone she loves going away. Sheba has the ability to vocally express sadness extremely well. I am enjoying the music, I mean they are all playing well, and it grooves, b ut Sheba’s vocals and her sadness have me. This is perhaps the most powerful song on the album.

13. Can't Help Lovin’ My Man 6:14 – In this song it seems that Sheba has indeed found a man to love and love him she does. Musically this song is on par with the last track. What I thought was a successful conclusion to an emotion-filled body of work, is in fact only a partially happy ending. You see, Sheba is in love with a fellow, but he goes away, and she is not really sure that he loves her. She spends her time at home sitting by the phone waiting for him to call. She knows that he loves her, but if he does not, she does not care. She cannot help loving her man.

So, what is the bottom line: The bottom line is this. Sheba has had an arduous life. She also has an incredible voice which she uses to sing about events and emotions she has felt at different points of her life. Fortunately, she has found a group of musicians with whom she blends. Each of the players on this album is very good. This comes across as a very cohesive unit of highly talented people who make very powerful music. This album is more than worth the purchase price.

I give Sheba’s album A Real Good Woman 5 out of 5 scowls on the Grouch scale. - The Grouch

Available at Bongo Bo y Records: https://bongoboyrecords.com/sheba/

Also available starting this November at cdbaby, iTunes, Amazon, Walmart and other online retailers and retail outlets Worldwide

Hej America!

The other day the folks at Bongo Boy asked me to give a listen and share my thoughts about an upcoming album called LOVE IS Volume One. This is a bit of a new area for me, as love songs usually are not really my thing, unless you would consider Alice Cooper’s Only Women Bleed a love song. If you have not heard that song for a while, take a listen and think about the words. Alice Cooper was singing about domestic violence and how terrible it is. I find it interesting that one of the most shocking “scary” acts would perform a song that was, in actuality, very sensitive and forward thinking for the time. Just for good measure, and to assure no one would think he was too sensitive the B-side of this single was Cold Ethel, but I digress. The album which is the subject of this review has some of my favorite Bongo Boy artists on it, so it should be good.

1. Mandy Brooks - Have I Told You

Lately 4:09 – First up is Mandy Brooks whose music I really like. She has such an old-school Country groove going on. I admire the guitar player’s (as well as the other strings I hear) ability. I am a huge sucker for a slide guitar and when I hear those notes bending I have to smile. Lest anyone think the only part of the song I like is the strings, I have to say that Mandy has an awesome voice. I mean, really, her voice is beautiful. I first heard Mandy a few albums ago. I really liked her then and I still do.

2. Big Bone Daddy - All My Time 5:10 – Big Bone Daddy is one of my favorite Bongo Boy artists. There is no question that Dad can jam, and I cannot think of anyone more qualified to play this. The vocals are intense, and the groove is hypnotic. For some reason, I pick up a Procol Harum vibe from this song. What I do know is that I have listen ed to this track about five times in a row simply because it is so powerful! Man, I really want to see these guys live. They must blow the roof off.

3. One Supernova - Wide Awake 5:02 – The first thing that hits the listener is a really great voice that oozes soul. Then the band kicks in and all I can do is smile. I dig the percussion. It sounds like he is having a lot of fun. The guitar is just right with enough grit to make a 70s kid head bang while not being so heavy that the melodic groove is lost. Overall this is a fantastic song that I am sure will be enjoyed by listeners the world over.

4. Deborah Henriksson - Only You

3:40 – I dig Deborah’s music or I could say ”Jag gillar verkligen Deborahs musik.” Deborah, like myself, is an American raised Swede. All pseudonationalistic nonsense aside, Deborah does have an absolutely wonderful voice and I cannot wait to see her live the next time I am in Sweden. Honestly folks, if we could get Mandy and Deborah on the same bill, it would be one spellbinding evening as both of these women have great voices that I could listen to all day long. You will enjoy this track as much as I do, I am sure.

5. Blind Lemon Pledge - Language of Love 4:33 – I first heard Blind Lemon Pledge on a Blues compilation album Bongo Boy put out a while back. I remember being blown away then and every time I have heard him since. This song is no exception. I dig the up -tempo laid down by the percussion as BLP comes in with some vocals that fit well with the music. I really like it when I can tell the band is having fun and there is no doubt in my mind that everyone is having a good time playing this track.

6. Studeo - Our Perfect Place to Be 4:04 – This is an interesting track with a real jazz feel. I can see this being performed in a smoke-filled club in the wee hours of the morning. Are those brushes I hear on the drums? The groove is just so old-school cool, rat pack cool, that the listener cannot help but nod in approval. Then there are the vocals, this woman has soul. I have th e same big goofy grin I get whenever I hear something that really moves me. WOW!

7. Les Fradkin - Black Gypsy 2:50 – Les is a monster player that I first heard a couple of years ago. His music made an impression on me. This song reminds me why I was impressed. There is one word that describes this track – hypnotic. Hypnotic, bordering on psychedelic. Les has the perfect British Invasion voice and the music reminds me of something that would have come over in about 66. Well done Les, you have, once again, written a song that really keeps my attention – there is just so much going on that even my easily distracted mind is not tempted to succumb to other stimuli.

8. Mark Baxter - Love Is 3:47 – An interesting, classical inspired opening starts off the song, but less than 30 seconds in we hear that Mark is, basically, a bluesman, as the keys slide into a solidly funky run. When Mark shouts out “Now listen!” the listener cannot do anything other than listen up. What follows is a masterful, emotion laden jam with Mark’s killer vocals playing off the band and the keys answering back with just the right amount of soulful swagger that the listener is left with no other option than to applaud.

9. Blind Dawg Ben Miller - Ain't Nobody Loved Me 6:11 – The Dawg is back! I dig Ben Miller’s music. Good God I love that guitar that hits the listener square in the face right out of the box. As if fighting to not be outdone, the bass answers the guitar with a groovy (yes that is the right word) bottom jam that doesn’t even let up when the guitar takes the spotlight. Then as if sensing the bass player’s full on attitude, we hear Ben say “Play some bass Tommy!”. Tommy then proceeds to lay down a hammering bassline that is just too cool to describe. Ben comes in with some soothing vocals and it seems the guitar and bass have come to a truce as they both lock in and swing. All the while the drummer is back there just pounding out a hypnotic rhythm that eventually leads into a classic blues ending. Excellent work guys!

10. Susan SurfTone - Out of My Dreams 3:10 – Susan is another one of my favorite artists. She blew my mind when I first heard her, and I have liked everything I have heard from her since. Susan does such a fantastic job with the surf guitar, no one can touch her on that stuff. This track has a bit of a Surf-Punk feel. It appears the drummer is putting down a slowed down classic Punk beat. I have a feeling that if the Ramones had done Surf, it would sound something like this track. Just to be clear, the Ramones are one of my all-time favorite groups and that is a complement.

11. Udo Hoelscher - Before We Fall 3:12 – This is a good song. The music is not complicated, nor does it need to be. The music is basically a backdrop for Udo’s haunting vocals. In the middle of the track the guitar does put down a nice solo, but to my ears anyway, the main force of this song is Udo’s voice. I am impressed and would very much like to see Udo live.

12. Gar Francis - More Then I Asked For 2:51 – I dig Gar’s music. I have really liked everything I have heard from this guy including this song. Gar’s Dylanesque voice sounds so raunchy, yet at the same time clean. (Unlike Dylan, or Springsteen for that matter, I can understand all of the words in this song.) The orchestral strings in the background contrast so sharply with Gar’s voice

that his voice becomes even more intense. Give this track a listen and I am sure you too will become a fan.

13. Marie Chabot - Last Night 3:52 – I like the intro with the soft guitar and the slightly bent notes. Marie has a beautiful voice. This song could easily be played at the Grand Ole Opry. Yes, it is that good. Marie has a great voice that fits easily into the Country genre. Ver y well done Marie, very well done!

14. Trevor Aaron Carlesi - I'm Gonna Win My Spurs 2:17 – Up next another Country track. This is a bit of a Billy jam and I dig it. Trevor has a good voice and his band rocks. The lead guitar has some lightning and their keyboard player has some chops. I have that big goofy grin again. It is obvious that the band is having fun and they pack a tremendous punch into 2:17. Excellent work Trevor!

15. Studeo - Sunset in Corfu 4:19 – Some truly wicked guitar starts off this track. Then that fantastic voice comes in and the band falls back into a supporting role. They are not totally gone; however, they are still throwing down some nice licks and the drummer is making his presence felt with some nice fills and various percussive devices, but most of my attention is held by that magical voice. Towards the end of the song, the guitar speaks up with a very Santanaesque solo. The ending of the song, with the guitar belting out licks and the singer’s voice singing the refrain, is close to perfection.

So, folks what is the bottom line? The bottom line is this: I think Bongo Boy, with the help of some very talented musicians has redefined the meaning of the words Love Song. I was a bit concerned, when Bongo Boy told me the name of the album, that I might have to listen a bunch of songs with a similar cheese factor of Silly Love Songs. I felt better when I read the actual track list and recognized many of the names. These bands have all contributed great tracks that range from Country, to Surf, to Rat Pack Cool, to haunting vocals by a man named Udo. (Whenever I hear that name I think of one of the best albums I own Udo Lindenberg Live Sonderzug nach Pankow.) This album LOVE IS Volume One is a very good album that should be in any serious collector’s collection. - The Grouch

Album Web Page: https://bongoboyrecords.com/loveisvolumeone/

Bongo Boy Records

eMail: info@bongoboyrecords.com

www.bongoboyrecords.com

Blues Singer Sheba

The Mississippi Queen Releases An Intense Blues

Album “A Real Good Woman”

A 13-Track Blues Album CD on Bongo Boy Records

WO R L D W I D E

"A Real Good Woman" is the story told by Blues singer and songwriter Sheba The Mississippi Queen. Born in 1953, her life began in the cotton fields of Mississippi; this 13-track album takes the listeners on a journey from there and then to her current life as a performing and recording artist and spiritual teacher.

Sheba's rich story telling lyrics covers black history and culture in the South, her life onstage and in the studio singing the blues, and her time in Atlanta and New York City as a "working girl."

“'A Real Good Woman,' the story of the birth of the blues in the heart and soul of a real good woman." Rev. Prentiss John Davis, Unity of Ocala

"Raw, honest, heart-breaking. Here is an open and honest account of the struggles of an AfricanAmerican woman and what she went through to escape the cotton f ields of Sunflower, Mississippi in the ’60s to become the spiritual woman she is today.”

Shirley Long, Unity of Ocala, Administrative Assistant to Senior Minister

Available at Bongo Boy Records: https://bongoboyrecords.com/sheba/ Also available starting this November at cdbaby, iTunes, Amazon, Walmart and other online retailers and retail outlets Worldwide. eMail: info@bongoboyrecords.com

Pictorial Sands Event Center

PHOTOS BY ALEXXIS STEELE

Fall Foliage Pictorial

PHOTOS BY ALEXXIS STEELE

David Cassidy In Memoriam Pictorial

Photos by Rhonda Jean VanBuskirk