Steel Notes Magazine December 2016

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FEATURED

Tony Orlando Christmas Show at The Sands Event Center

Brian Setzer Christmas Show State Theatre

Easton,PA

Chiller Theatre Expo Richie Scarlet Interview

Christmas Pictorial, Lehigh Valley Zoo, By Brian

Limage

Rock Your Way Jewelry interview

Dream Catcher Multimedia/TV

Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan presentz an interview w Ronnie Wheeler

Yngwie Malmsteen & Steve Vai Generation Axe Video

Duel (1971) Review 35th anniversary by Jerry Saravia

Music 101 With Alexxis Steele Radio Podcast Show

Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan Presentz Sidewalk

NYC

A Place to Practice

Interview: The Legacy Of Lita Ford

Let's Have A Rockin Christmas Reviews by Jenny Cat

Baby Let’S Go - Review By Jenny Cat

Volume X Review by Jenny Cat - Steel Notes MagDec

Dawn Belotti TV EP Review 1095

Dawn Belotti TV EP Review 1097

Dawn Belotti TV EP Review 1098

Rockin My Hair Off For Cancer

Nutcracker Ballet Review

Save the Hippies Comic

Trans Siberian Orchestra Ppl Center Allentown Pa

November 18 2016

Poetry by Yvonne Sotomayor

The Grouch International Corner - Suzanne Grzanna

The Grouch Christmas Album Review

The Grouch Frosty The Snowman By The Forty

Nineteen Review

Zak Stevens Interview by Luca Cerardi

Are you ready for shopping? By Alessia

Bastianelli

John F. Kennedy by Guido Colacci

Fidel Castro by Guido Colacci

Journey to India Chapter Five

GLVMA Anti-Bullying Event

Alexxis SteelePublisher/EditorIn-Chief

Guido ColacciAssistant Editor

Mick ReynoldsProofreader/Copy Editor

Jeffrey HeldDesign/Layout/ Cover

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sheri Bayne

Bob Klein

Gary Preis

Brian Smith

Derek Mitch

Travis Eisenhard

Renee Jahnke

Brian Limage

Ron Shirey

Dave Hummell

Alan Ottenstein

Brian Matus

Bill Des Jardins

VIDEOGRAPHERS

STAFF WRITERS

Alexxis Steele

Marlowe B. West

Dana Saravia

Jerry Saravia

Andrew Catania

Guido Colacchi

Victor Colicchio

Mick Reynolds

Sheri Bayne

The Gypsy Poet

Noah J Gambino

Kelly Mitch

Tony Angelo

Mike Dorn

Drama D

Karma Moonbeam

Bob Klein

Jenny Cat

Foxxy Roxxy

Yvonne Sotomayor

Stormy Boz

Scott Saxon

Johnny Gibbs

Luca Cerardi

Alessia Bastianelli

Scott Aber

Todd Sobczak

Monique Grimme

Nikki Palomino

Stewart Brodian

Daniel Diefenderfer

Rex Maurice Oppenheimer

JR Muffley

Traci Dunton Shaw

Jr Peterson

Patrick Campbell

The Grouch

DC Ryder

Larry Dell

Lisa Koza

Tony Orlando’s Christmas Show

By Alexxis Steele, Photos by Bob Klein

Every year at holiday time, Tony has his annual Christmas show at The Sands Event Center, in Bethlehem, Pa which runs for a week. This year in 2016, it ran from Sunday November 27th, until Monday December 1ST. We decided to go on Monday November 28th, the day after the show started.

Normally the Vision Lounge is open, bustling with customers and fans waiting to get into the shows, but when Tony comes to town, they shut the lounge down for the week, except for his fans coming in to see his show, which are routed through the hotel entrance, rather than the front doors by the box office.

Upon arriving inside, we were immediately put into the holiday spirit when we were greeted by a team of pretty young girls who were on a small stage singing Christmas carols. The girls were donned in red dresses and white sweaters, while they sang in front of a Christmas tree.

Busloads of patrons from all over had come to join in the evening’s festivities, not knowing what was in store. The stage was beautifully decorated to commemorate the season. Tony started off with a rendition of his hit- “Tie a Yellow Ribbon”, where he encouraged the audience to sing along with the chorus.

Shortly after performing his song, he called out to a member of the audience, who was a man that was seated several rows behind us, with a long white beard, and asked him to come to

the edge of the stage. The man spoke to Tony about things of his past that no one else would know, and then said he would be coming back.

Tony went on to play another song, and his band kept performing without stopping, even upon his command. Then in a surprising twist “Santa Claus” was on stage, followed by his helpers. The story became one of Tony believing who that man dressed in red really was. Tony begged the man for a sign that he was indeed who he claimed to be, and in that instant the Christmas tree came alive with a beautiful young woman with an angelic voice who was part of the tree singing “Have you a Merry Little Christmas.” Tony was scolded for not having a Nativity scene, and was given one by “Santa” as a gift.

Some of the show focused on having that Nativity, and the meaning of it. Tony was told that he needed to bring his music up to today’s standards to still be viable, and was seen doing an amped up version of “Tie a Yellow Ribbon”, with Santa rapping parts of it.

Throughout the course of the night the show had comedic elements to it as well. Large costumed “Bobble headed characters came out to sing and dance, such as Gangnam Style, Elvis & Little Richard. Also were Doo Wop artists like The Everly Brothers, Bill Haley & The Comets, and Buddy Holly.

At one point in the show with Tony on his knees in front of the Nativity Manger, a chorus of girls is dressed in white to represent angels singing, and out of the fog with a light shining down appears a man in white long robe that appears to be a vision of Jesus Christ. The man belts out an awesome version of the Christmas carol- “O Holy Night”, with vocals so great it sends chills down your spine. It was a very emotional moment for Tony as well as the crowd.

At the end of the evening Tony brought out the whole cast to introduce them to the audience. We found out that in one way or another it is a family affair. The “Santa Claus” in the show has worked with Tony and his Christmas shows for 24 years. In the show is his beautiful daughter Jenny Rose, his sister-in-law, Cee Cee,his daughter’s close friend- Brandy who was the lady in the tree, Stephanie, who played Gangnam style & Little Richard. The little drummer boy Michael, is the son of local Allentown & Bethlehem eatery’s Billy’s Downtown diner, and also Michael’s sister Georgia, who was in the angelic Choral group. Georgia introduced her friends, Olivia, Emily, Cassidy & Tori, who are from the Bethlehem Lesson Center. Broadway actor Randy Brooks played Jesus Christ and Santa Claus was played by actor Dave Thompson. Tony put on a delightful Christmas show that is something that your whole family would love to see and rejoice in the holiday spirit... I look forward to seeing Tony and the show again next year!

Tony Introducing cast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcVZKTZvs9Q

Show Review

Brian Setzer Orchestra

Christmas Show

Photos And Review By Sheri Bayne

For the 13th year in a row the Brian Setzer Orchestra performed their Christmas show at the Easton State Theatre.

Setzer's rich blend of rockabilly, Big Band and swing music is anything but dated. The three-time Grammy-Award winner’s music is timeless Setzer alternated Christmas songs with his original songs.

They started with traditional Christmas song Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree. And alternated between Stray cat songs (“Stray Cat Strut”, “Gene & Eddie”, “(She's) Sexy + 17”, “Fishnet Stockings”, “Rock This Town”) along with Christmas songs (“Here Comes Santa Claus”, “Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer”, “Angels We Have Heard On High”) along with other covers “Jump, Jive an' Wail” (which they had a popular hit with) along with AC/DC cover “Let There Be Rock”

Setzer’s voice and signature guitar lived up to expectation. Just as entertaining as Setzer is his orchestra, Not only are the orchestra's individuals as talented but they are also fun to watch. The show proved to be one that it still worth seeing, Looking forward to the 14th year.

Chiller Theatre Expo

By Alexxis Steele, Photos by Mike Dorn

Twice a year in April and October, the Steel Notes team heads down to the Sheraton Hotel in Parsippany NJ to cover the Chiller Theatre Expo which hosts actors, actresses, musicians and wrestlers from movies and television series dating back to the 50’s . October is always an especially fun time to go since it is during the Halloween season, and both vendors and fans are dressed to commemorate it.

The expo ran for 3 consecutive days, from October 28th to October 30th, but this time we decided to go on the opening night, Friday October 28th from 6 pm until 11 pm.

This fall’s lineup included many of our favorite entertainers, plus new one’s as well. This event always pulls in a huge crowd of people from all over the tri-state area and beyond, , hoping to get a chance to meet some of their favorite musicians, and tv stars, plus get an autograph and photo of them.

In “The Living Room”, I got to once again speak to actress Traci Lords, and we talked about how the movie “Cry Baby” she was in with Johnny Depp is one of our favorite movies. I was pleased to meet and speak with darling Tiffany- the 80’s pop singer, who was very cool and down to earth, about doing a future interview with. Also new to me was Barbara Feldon,

better known as “Agent 99”, in the TV series Get Smart. Barbara was trying to sneak in a bite to eat between autographs, so we spoke briefly, and said we would catch each other next time.

In “The Skyland Suite”, Steel Notes assistant copy editor Mick Reynolds spoke with Actor Mark Margolis about all the great work he has done during his career. I was happy to see one of my favorite WWE Wrestlers, and star of “The Punisher’, Kevin Nash, who sitting down at his height of almost seven feet, was as tall me standing up ! Our photographer, Mike Dorn and I had fun playing around with the adorable Dawn

Wells, who played “Mary Ann” on Gilligan’s Island.

In “The Randolph Room” we chatted up with Tony Orlando, whose fantastic Christmas show we just covered at Sands Event Center in Bethlehem, PA.

In the Florham Park Room we spoke with Scott Ian from Anthrax, but time did not allow for an actual interview. Unfortunately we were not able to speak with musician Meatloaf or cult favorite “Tim Curry”, due to long fan lines in some of the other rooms where photo ops and autograph signing was going on.

Our favorite room is The “Morris Rock & Roll” Room, which is where most of all the musicians are gathered, plus other key people that I have had the pleasure of hanging out with again, like Vh1’s “That Metal show” go to man-Don Jamieson.

In this go around, the musician lineup we spoke to were drummer Frankie Banali from Quiet Riot, “The Emperor Of Rock N Roll himself! ,guitarist Richie Scarlet, who has been on the cover of Steel Notes. I got to do a live audio feed interview with Richie, and had a fun time hanging out with him. Some new friends we got to see were guitarist Rudy Sarzo, drummer Carmine Appice, Guitarist Bobby Steele from the Undead & the Misfits, (Bobby asked me if I play drums to join them since my last name is Steele!) and Chiller first-timer Jo Lynn Turner.

Christmas Pictorial Lehigh Valley Zoo

By Brian Limage

Rock Your Way Jewelry By: Bev Charlotte Kurz

Interview by Alexxis Steele

Bev’s designs are a must have one of a kind rock inspired jewelry for men and women. Perfect for musicians and music lovers a like! I spoke with her regarding her creations.

AS: What sparked your desire and interest in making your jewelry line?

BCK: I love going to concerts and local rock shows but I was having trouble finding good quality rocker jewelry to match my outfits without paying a fortune. On a trip to SC a couple years ago I bought a guitar pick necklace at the house of blues and thought it was a cool idea to make jewelry out of guitar picks. I also thought how cool would it be to make a piece of jewelry out of a guitar pick that someone got at a concert turning a great memory into a beautiful piece of jewelry. I started out with necklaces then moved on to bracelets and earrings. I've always loved arts and crafts since I was a little girl and I was blessed with artistic ability and creativity so I am very grateful for that!

AS::What type of materials and colors do you like working with?

BCK: Guitar picks of course are my favorite material. They are very easy to work with and there r so many different things to create with them! I try to keep my jewelry music themed so I look for music related charms and pendants like little guitars, drum kits and music notes. I love working with Swarovski crystals because I like to add some bling. I also absolutely love working with stone and metal crosses and skulls! Last but not least I love my E6000 glue, I use it on everything.

AS: How would you describe your particular style?

BCK: My style is definitely rocker style with a twist of biker style in there too.

AS: Are your designs one of a kind?

BCK: A lot of my designs are one of a kind. Sometimes a customer will see something they like at a store or on and ad and ask me to make them something similar to that. I do a lot of custom pieces which is basically whatever the customer wants as long as I feel I can do it. I am always trying to come up with original ideas that don't look like all the other jewelry out there. And I love getting input and ideas from my friends and customers!

AS: Where can potential customers purchase your jewelry?

BCK: I have an etsy shop and I also sell directly to people who r my friends on Facebook. I am working on making a Facebook page just for Rock your way jewelry so that people can buy directly from there also.

AS: What are your future goals?

BCK: .My jewelry making is just a hobby right now and a way to make extra income but some day I'd love to be able to do it full time and maybe travel to shows around the country. I would also love to have the opportunity to make some custom pieces for some of the big rock stars and have them wear it on stage...that would be a dream

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Interview

Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan presentz

An Interview with Ronnie Wheeler

by Marlowe B West

Ladies and Gentlemen and Children of All Ages ... In case you've been living off in a bubble ... cut off from the liquid brain media ... so fluidly dispensed ... and replacing knowledge with the latest scoop ... unaware of the latest happenings and the hottest poop ... my name is Marlowe B West and I am your Ring Leader ...

Now if you were to scan (as I have been doing for the past few years) through

New York ... following the glorious, rejuvenating, invigorating evidence that there really is life in the young blood that is dying to be recognized, heard and understood ... you would, no doubt, run into Ronnie Wheeler ... This guy is a true Rock and Roll Animal ... and I mean that in the truest sense of the word ... Let me introduce my friend, Ronnie Wheeler, to all of my beautiful and loyal readers and fans ...

MBW:

Hi Ronnie ... Would you like to start this interview off by telling us about all of the many wildly innovative and thrilling musical endeavors you presently have going on ???

RW: Red Gretchen, Mora Tau, Bowhead, Bad Avocado & Ronnie Wheeler Blues ... I have a big party coming up Feb 4 ... Ronnie Wheeler & The Devils Elixir. My birthday show ... where I will bring all my bands to the Beast of Bourbon.

MBW:

That sounds terribly awesome ... love that place ... I knew you were a busy guy, but how does one juggle so many acts ... and they are each profoundly unique ... somehow you defy schizophrenia ... just remarkable ... I can honestly tell you I loved Red Gretchenon sight ... why d on't you tell us about it ???

w/ photos by Alan Rand and Johan Vipper

RW:

Well I got to say I am very honored to have Anne Husick on bass & Shauna Westgate on drums ... We have new tunes and are ready to go in the studio ... We have been together for 5 years with this line up ... The songs I write for this band are about loss, twisted places that i have been and will only talk about them in song ... I use several alt turnings in Red Gretchen ... We have a Psychedelic 60's sound with a modern twist ... Very blues influenced ... We have a video release party on Dec 7th at The SideWalk NYC ... Alan Rand directed, shot & produced the video that we release Dec 7th ... Alan also recorded the song Jumper and produced our CD Nobody ... https://www.facebook.com/ redgretchen/

MBW:

What about Mora Tau

RW:

Mora Tau has Shauna Westgate on drums again ... only she is in disguise as Shodda Whiskey Crow ... matter of fact we all have stage names in Mora Tau ... We have Starr Sixtynine Jumble on Keytar, Tony Jumble does bass & me Dizzy Drawl on guitar, vocals and song writing ... Tony & Star back me on vocals ... This band has a huge expansive sound ... We have been compared to Queens of the Stone Age & Soundgarden ... We are almost done with our latest ep recorded by Paul Kostabi ... We are psychedelic stoner rock ... Next show Feb 4th Beast of Bourbon.

https://www.facebook.com/moratauband/

MBW:

Very impressive, Ronnie ... how about Bowhead ???

RW: Bowhead are Davey Gunner from Kraut on lead vocals ... Calum Makenzie from Phobia & Kraut on bass ... Gerry White from Labreta Suede & the Motel 6, Snake Canyon & Kraut on drums ... Joe Vincent on rhythm guitar from The Third Kind ... & Me on lead guitar ...This is the heaviest band I am in ... We are playing Dec 15th at The Delancey Bar at 9:30pm ... We are booked to go in the studio in March . .. https://www.facebook. com/bowheadnyc/

MBW:

So where can we catch your shows ... do you have anything coming up soon ???

RW: Ronnie Wheeler Blues has a show Dec 2nd at Bowery Electric Map Room ... 8pm. Feb 4 you can catch the rest of my bands at the Beast of Bourbon.

MBW: How about Bad Avocado ???

RW: Bad Avocado started maybe 3 years ago ... We have Interstate Johnson on Lead guitar & vocals ... me on Lead guitar and vocals ... Stu Richards aka Chicken Leg on bass & Shauna Westgate on drums ... We are a jam band that play mostly originals a few covers ... Interstate & I do sick harmony guitar leads and it is a total blast!! ... See us Feb 4th at Beast of Bourbon... https://www. facebook.com/badavocado/

MBW: Let's step w ay back ... tell us when and where this Tasmanian musical devil began to emerge ???

RW: My 1st concert ... Age 13 ... to see KISS ... I thought 'hmmm, I wanna do that'

MBW: Were you caught off guard by anything in particular that began spinning those Wheeler wheels ???

RW: Janes Addiction & Mother Love Bone ... Set my sail.

MBW: Can you tell us about any influences you had ... where, when & how ???

RW: When I was 10 years old I really loved Fleetwood Mac ... 12 years old I got into Aerosmith ... 13 Led Zeppelin, Van Helen, Metallica, Saxon. Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, then came Randy Rhodes w. Ozzy ... Albuquerque, New Mexico is where I was

born & played in lots of band back in the day.

MBW: What was going through your head at let's say fifteen ???

RW: Girls girls girls & learning to play Randy Rhodes & Jimmy Page licks. Girls & the sweet leaf.

MBW: What were your interests and did you have a lot of friends ???

RW: Even when I was a little nerdy kid I always had lots of friends ... I was interested in just guitar and singing ... Some of my family would try

to get me to have interest in more locrative things .... Like college or trade schools.

MBW: How about school ???

RW: ha ha

MBW: Your 1st musical instrument ???

RW: I wanted to play drums ... My dad got me a trumpet.

MBW: Is there any one song that has rung through your soul all along ???

RW: Led Zepp ... "No Quarter"

MBW:

Cool ... Do you have a motto ???

RW: Do it right or don't do it at all !!!

MBW: Of all you do and get involved in ... what is your greatest love ???

RW: My son Brandon, my girl friend, our kitties and writing songs...

MBW: How do you feel as an American ???

RW: I love this my country ... But shit is a mess ... New York is TOUGH ... been here 17 years & it hasn't kicked me out yet ... Thanks to Shodda.

MBW: Tell us about the Red Gretchen songs you are recording ... and about the

songwriting ... and about the actual recording processes ???

RW: I have 5 new tunes ready to record ... Meaning lyrics, guitar riff, change & structure are all in order ... 1st you need solid drum & bass tracks done then you can layer in the rest ... I like to play live with the band doing scratch guitar & vocals ... to get the rhythm tracks ... Then double the guitars & amp ... Do my lead guitar tracks & vocals last ... That is pretty much it.

MBW: What kind of music would you call what Mora Tau does ... there is an added excitement there in that band ... it feels real good like you are speaking a familiar language but it is not determined ... kinda alien ... why should I be

getting this vibe ???

RW:

I went back to my roots for this band ... 90's esc with roots in metal ... And biggest influence in Mora Tau is Led Zepp & Pavement ... I am in a strange tuning that I'm not going into cuz no one cares about that stuff except guitar nerds ... But that tuning creates a different sound.

MBW:

... and Bowhead feels like a private army ... a stronger aggression ... can you tell us more about this band and what it's all about ... where your sound originates and how things roll ???

RW: Black Sabbath is to blame ... Ha ha ... Helmet, Tool ... Our drummer, Gerry White, & Calum Mackenzie, our bassist, come up with these heavy rhythm based riffs that they structure into songs ... They bring them to the rehearsal space and we hash it out ... Davey Gunner, our singer, adds in his dark & twisted lyrics and we are off and running like a wild pack of dogs ... This band is tough with serious well seasoned veteran players ... Gerry is the best drummer I have ever played with ... We just added a new guitarist, Joe Vincent, who has his own band, "The Third Kind", and you'll hear him on the next record scheduled for March. https://www.facebook.com/bowheadnyc/

MBW: ... more Bad Avocado please ...

RW:

Bad Avocado is jam band ... We play the songs different every time ... We could write a song on stage and no one would even know ... We like doing hard Frank Zappa covers ... We do a couple Stones tunes .... Interstate Johnson is such a bad ass guitar player and I have learned so much from him ... Shauna is so bad

ass in this band cuz she really cuts loose and tries new things ... We all do cuz it's not strictly structured as all the other projects I am in are ... So you can do what ever you want and the band listens and adapts to create something magical ... Chicken Leg holds down the bottom and adds his unique flavor that spreads thick like guacamole ... ha ha

MBW: I will not ask which you like the most or try to separate or break anything down ... I think it is altogether powerful and look forward to seeing the results of all these bombs going off all at once ... It's a beautiful thing in this day and age to look at music as the bombs with so much to say and change without destruction and hatred ... I see all of you as beautiful soldiers doing the ultimate battle ... inverting war into peace & converting excess social stress into positive energy ... allowing one another to share each others love and passions and reaching out to the masses so in need for companionship & brotherhood ... Speak from your heart and soul, my brother, Ronnie ... Tell us ... Is there anything you would like to add ... Please give us all your contact info so we can follow you all ...

RW: https://www.facebook.com/ Ronnie-Wheeler-Solo-Acoustic-708388779250796/

https://redgretchen.bandcamp. com/albu m/nobody https://f4.bcbits.com/img/a1914078863_10.jpg

MBW: ... and now ... my usual last and favorite question ... If I could grant you three wishes ... what would they be ???

RW: I wish love & happiness on everyone People stop killing each other Try to be kind or smoke the kind

Jerry Saravia (December 2016)

Menace to Society

Jerry Saravia (December 2016)

Film Review: Menace to Society

Film Review

Menace to Society

by Jerry Saravia

Right at the start of Steven Spielberg's masterfully exciting "Duel," you can see the unimaginable road trip the main character has to face. The unaired theatrical version of this TV-movie shows Dennis Weaver's Red Plymouth Valiant pulling out of a suburban garage from his intrinsic pointof-view (Suburbia has been an iconic staple of Spielberg’s work). Through a series of dissolves, Weaver’s character travels through the city streets and tunnels until he is finally in the lonely desert road. He is David Mann, a salesman presumably headed to some city or town for a meeting. We never know what David sells nor do we need to. When he tries to pass a gas tanker truck in a Californian two-lane road stretch, the truck roars past David like a bat out of hell. It startles David and before long, the chase is on. This is not so much a cat-and-mouse chase – it is a terrifying chase picture where the truck driver’s intent is to kill David.

Right at the start of Steven Spielberg's masterfully exciting "Duel," you can see the unimaginable road trip the main character has to face. The unaired theatrical version of this TV-movie shows Dennis Weaver's Red Plymouth Valiant pulling out of a suburban garage from his intrinsic pointof-view (Suburbia has been an iconic staple of Spielberg’s work). Through a series of dissolves, Weaver’s character travels through the city streets and tunnels until he is finally in the lonely desert road. He is David Mann, a salesman presumably headed to some city or town for a meeting. We never know what David sells nor do we need to. When he tries to pass a gas tanker truck in a Californian two-lane road stretch, the truck roars past David like a bat out of hell. It startles David and before long, the chase is on. This is not so much a cat -and-mouse chase – it is a terrifying chase picture where the truck driver’s intent is to kill David.

The only instance where the film rests is literally at rest stops. A truck stop café is the setting for various truck drivers who look on at David as David sitting at a table, imagining which one is the menace on the highway. David can’t figure it out and, alarmingly, as he picks a fight with one truck driver who has similar-looking boots, the ominous gas tanker truck through the window’s

The only instance where the film rests is literally at rest stops. A truck stop café is the setting for various truck drivers who look on at David as David sitting at a table, imagining which one is the menace on the highway. David can’t figure it out and, alarmingly, as he picks a fight with one truck driver who has similar-looking boots, the ominous gas tanker truck through the window’s

background takes off. It is a virtuoso Spielberg scare scene, anticipating the menace of the unseen shark in his very own “Jaws” three years later. A Snakerama gas station stop (also featured in Spielberg’s “1941”) that features rattlesnakes as its main attraction gets awry when David uses a payphone and sees the truck is headed right into it. David escapes in the nick of time (a cliffhanging moment that is as hair-raising as Indiana Jones’s own wondrous cliffhangers that Spielberg himself later directed) and the truck practically demolishes everything in its path. When David manages to elude the driver near a railroad crossing, he sits in his car for hours, feeling elated at the prospect that the nightmare is over. As soon as he starts his engine and leaves, he stops in the middle of the road and sees the truck yet again, waiting impatiently for the chase to continue

“Duel” is relentless, manic and in- your-face, a brutal nightmare that takes place in daylight. 35 years later after its debut on television, it still carries a hypnotic charge. The film could’ve been a bore had it been one endless chase scene but it’s got the presence of Dennis Weaver and an uglylooking truck to compensate, not to mention Spielberg’s tight direction and constant changes in composition so that you never feel you are looking at the same shot over and over again. It is “Jaws” on wheels only this sort of restless panic where road rage and aggressi on take center stage is a reality faced by many motorists daily, more so than the prospect of running into a

hungry shark. What Spielberg does so cleverly is to make us fear for David’s plight and we never know if David will survive it. That Red Plymouth Valiant is no match for a grimy-looking gas tanker truck emitting all sorts of exhaust into the atmosphere – a tree-hugging liberal’s nightmare. But the environment is hardly what David cares about, it is the lack of control he has over this unseen driver (only the driver’s boots and his arm are ever visible). When it is all over after the truck plunges over a cliff, David feels victorious and jumps up and down. Then he settles down and sits on the edge of a cliff, looking despondent. The nightmare may be over but we never know what really stimulated the truck driver to aggressively attack David (the various license plates in the truck’s front bumper certainly suggest that this driver has done this before). There is calm and unease and the victory slowly dissipates. “Duel” is about a lonely man on a lonely two-lane road who, by the end of the film, is more alone than ever. ###

Ladies and Gentlemen and Children of All Ages ... My name is Marlowe B West and I am your Ring Leader ... For those of you who may not already know I have been the very lucky Star Reporter here at Steel Notes Magazine for nearly 3 years now ... come February ... I was given this grand opportu nity by Alexxis Steele ... Publisher/Editor In Chief at Steel Notes Magazine & Radio personality at Music 101 ... She had spotted me in some wild pho tographs with original punk fashion designer Natasha Adonzio in hot New York City Club 39 ... where Natasha and her exotic models were having a photo shoot for Illusion Magazine via Catwalk Runway to the music of Debbie Harry & Blondie ... Alexxis asked Natasha "Who is that guy ?" ... the rest is history.

Coincidentally ... at that time I had just formulated the concept for my own TV show and was in hot pursuit ... The name of the show was Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan and it was my idea to scavenge through New York City and spotlight the most incredible people, places and things in my path ... well I took this concept and made it into my plat-

form for my new monthly column ... It is also the name of my Rock and Roll Band ... Marlowe B West Takez Manhattan & The Brooklyn Hornz.

My beautiful young friends Cindy Colon and Johnny Spice had gone way out of their way to pick me up on their way to catch Big Sexy's show ... Emma Zakarevicius was already wet and sweating on stage as we burst into the 'private' backroom of the now trending hotspot Sidewalk NYC ... Emma had jumped off the stage and was in the midst of doing this humpy shaking-all-over dance ... grinding her booty on anyone who got in her way while belting out her crazy Booty Song ... it was insanely crowded ... I loved it ... With her arms waving high above her head, Emma looked like a virginal sacrifice in the spotlight ... paparazzi closed in all around ... it became an electrical lightning storm that hit the pages of Facebook before daybreak.

Now let me tell you ... my beautiful Steel Notes Magazine readers and fans ... about Sidewalk NYC ... The cat is out of the bag ... This exquisite 4 star Bar · Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant · Performance & Sports Venue

in New York, New York @ 94 Avenue A & 6th used to think of itself as a discreet local retreat ... but ... as of late it's hard to get a table ... word got out about town & it appears the whole lower east side has spilled into The Sidewalk NYC ... Pinchas Milstein is the owner ... better known as Pini ... He has been in this location for thirty years ... He says he owes his outlandish success to a "Lots of hard work and dedication, by a lots of good talented people." ... Sidewalk NYC has always maintained a groovy kind of clientele ... Artisans and musicians magnetize to this place ... the ambiance ... the friendly creative downtown lower east side atmosphere lures them back day and nite ... They have music every night, no cover (2 drinks min.) great restaurant in separate space ... Great full bar ... Sidewalk NYC is one of a kind ... The longest open mic in New York City - every Monday ... Unique place for singers & song writers.

Anchoring the corner of Avenue A and 6th Street for nearly 30 years ... Sidewalk Cafe is an East Village landmark, both a lively neighborhood haunt and a destination for seekers of a singular slice of authentic New York nightlife ... Sidewalk is known

for its thriving live entertainment scene ... mouthwatering menu of modestly priced casual fare (particularly burgers made with meat ground on-site for superior taste and texture) and convivial bar ... the site of one of Manhattan’s best Happy Hours ... With three distinct spaces – Restaurant, Bar and Stage – offering three different reliably relaxed and always fun experiences ... Sidewalk is open daily from 11 a.m to 1 a.m and weekends until 4 a.m. ... I absolutely love this place ... Brimming over the top with love ... Here are fotos of some of my awesome Sidewalk NYC family ... Some I've taken ... Some taken by Anne Husick ... and a few others by Donald Sztabnik and Johan Vipper ...

Also: I could not pass up this opportunity to share Sidewalk NYC's hard-to-choose-from menu ... Delicious Mediterranean, middle eastern food, and absolutely the best hamburger in all Manhattan !!! ... See you there ... Cheerz ... and Have A Beauty.

Menu Online: http://www.sidewalkny.com/ menus/daily-menu/

Daily Menu

All of our food is made on premises from the freshest & highest quality ingredients, with no pre- servatives. Our meat is ground in-house.

Meze

Seven Spices Tuna – $8.95

Seared tuna served with cucumber slices and harissa

Grilled Chicken Skewers - $7.75

Chicken thighs marinated in Middle Eastern spices, served with a pepper tahini sauce

Grilled Shrimp Skewer – $ 7.95

Three jumbo shrimp marinated in pesto sauce and served with fresh chopped salad

Fire Roasted Eggplant - $6.75

Topped with finely chopped tomato salad, tahini, garlic oil, and sumac

Grilled Halloumi – 8.95

Goat & sheep cheese served with oven roasted tomatoes & za’atar

Fried Calamari - $7.95

Served with smoked paprika aioli

Fresh Chopped Salad - $6.25

Persian cucumber, vine tomatoes, red onion, parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon

Entre size – $11.95

Fried Cauliflower – $5.45

Drizzled with homemade tahini & fresh mint

Falafel – $6.25

Served with homemade tahini, spicy shoog, and pita bread

Soup of the Day - $5.50

Labane and Beets – $6.75

Served with fresh mint and za’atar

Shakshuka (goat cheese or grilled vegetables add $3.00) – $9.50

Poached eggs served in a spiced Tunisian tomato sauce topped with fresh cilantro and served with challah bread

Mussels in Tomato and Garlic Broth served with garlic toast – $11.95

Mac & Cheese - $8.75

Chicken Fingers - $8.95

Mozzarella Sticks - $7.50

French Fries - $4.75

Sweet Potato Fries - $5.75

Nachos - $8.25

Add chicken or guacamole for $3

Chicken Wings - $8.75

Choice of Carolina Gold BBQ, Atlanta Red BBQ, or classic Buffalo sauce

Hummus

sauce & hand-rolled couscous

Chicken Shwarma - $14.95

Mediterranean-style grilled chicken served over a bed of herbed basmati rice & tahini

sauce

Mediterranean Skillet – $14.95

Choice of chicken or meat served on fresh baked dough with chickpeas, grilled toma- toes, fresh mint and tahini

Short Rib Pasta Ragout – $15.95

Penne pasta with a ragout of braised short ribs, root vegetables, and tomato sauce, topped with parmegiano reggiano & parsley

Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce & Basil served with garlic toast - $8.95

Spaghetti with Mussels in a Tomato Garlic

Broth served with garlic toast - $14.95

Penne Alla Vodka with Bacon – $13.25

Couscous

Made daily with vegetable broth & choice of:

Chicken – $17.95

Lamb – $19.95

Vegetables – $14.95

Flatbreads & Sandwiches

Lamb Flatbread - $11.25

Topped with shredded roasted lamb, hummus, oven roasted tomatoes, preserved lemon, and labane drizzle

Moroccan Chicken Flatbread – $10.25

Topped with Moroccan chicken, oven roasted tomatoes, and parmesan cheese

Grilled Vegetables Flatbread - $9.75

Topped with grilled vegetables, pesto, feta cheese crumble, and za’atar

Goat Cheese & Avocade Flatbread - $9.75

Topped with goat cheese, avocado, and roast- ed FalafelpeppersWrap – $8.75

Fresh chopped salad, hummus & tahini sauce served with hand cut fries

Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich – $11.25

Served with onion, grilled swiss & smoke

BBQ sauce on a challah bun served with hand cut fries

Burgers & More

The East Village Burger - $11.95

8 oz. fresh ground beef served on a toasted kaiser bun with hand-cut fries

Served with homemade tahini, spicy schoog & pita

bread

Sidewalk Hummus – $7.25

Sweet potato hummus – $7.25

Green Pea hummus – $7.25

Hummus with chicken – $10.75

Hummus with meat – $10.75

Hummus with grilled veggies – $10.75

Salads

(add chicken $3.00)

Fattoush – $10.95

Chopped fresh romaine lettuces with garden vegeta- bles, toasted za’atar pita croutons, and feta cheese, tossed in extra virgin olive oil & lemon

Shaved Fennel Salad with Oranges – $11.25

Add $1 for choice of toppings: bacon, ham, fried egg, caramelized onions, crispy shallots, sauteed mushrooms, swiss, cheddar, Maytag Blue cheese, American cheese

Sidewalk Burger - $14.95

8 oz. fresh ground beef served with bacon, ham, fried egg, avocado, crispy shallots, swiss, secret sauce, and hand-cut fries

Antifolk Burger - $13.95

8 oz. fresh ground beef served with bacon, blue cheese, drunken onion sauce, & hand- cut fries

Veggie Burger - $11.95

Veggie patty served on a toasted Kaiser bun with hand-cut fries

Breakfast

Shaved fennel, baby arugula, shaved parmesan, and orange supreme tossed with citrus vinaigrette

Kale Salad – $10.25

Chopped fresh kale with apples, pita croutons, and candied pecans, tossed in labane dressing

Grilled Hearts of Romaine Salad - $7.95

Drizzled with olive oil, lemon vinaigrette, and aged parmesan

Main

Kafta Kabab – $14.95

Grilled fresh ground beef patties seasoned with baharat spice mix, served with charred vegetables, herbed basmati rice, and aged parmesan

Moroccan Fish (Chraime) – $18.95

Fresh salmon served in traditional spiced tomato

Served all day! Comes with fries & one free coffee until 5pm. Weekdays only.

2 Eggs Any Style - $5.95

Served with hand-cut fries and choice of bacon or ham

Omelette - $7.00

Ham, veggie, or cheese

Omelette Wrap - $7.00

Dessert

Tiramisu - $6.00

BaklavaMediterranean$6.00pastry served with nuts

ChurrosTraditional$6.00Spanish donuts served with hot chocolate sauce

http://www.attractionsmodels.com/

Bandleader It’s More Work Than I Thought – A Place to Practice

by Daniel Diefenderfer -- Bandleader for Dutch’s Basement Blues Band

What I really mean is a place to rehearse. Technically practice is what each band member should be doing on their own to learn their part in the ensemble. That can be done anywhere from sitting on the porch to sitting on the…you get the idea. Rehearsal is when the band gets together to learn how to play their parts together as an ensemble. This is when the show is created, developed, and learned. Each player comes away from a rehearsal with what they should practice individually. Notice I did not say polished or tightened that actually evolves from playing out.

Ok enough semantics what you need is a space that the whole band can play in on a regular basis. This can easily be the hardest piece of the puzzle and one of the most important. If one member of the band has a home studio that may be the practice space you need. A space in someone’s home is certainly the best solution even if it isn’t a studio because it is free and at least one person doesn’t have to haul gear. Since you are the bandleader you should seriously consider it being your house if you have one. Clean out all that stuff you’ve been storing in the basement or garage forever and you will find that you have more space than a lot of venues offer your band to perform in.

Other options include renting a space; many studios will rent you practice space or just find a space for rent. This is the least desirable option because of the overhead involved. Your band hasn’t even begun earning money yet and may not for a while. Try to avoid this expense there will be plenty of others you will need to deal with without worrying about meeting the rent. You can beg a space by finding someone who has space but doesn’t use it during certain times or doesn’t mind a band coming in and making loud music in the space they use for something else like storage or a compatible business. Try to find a warehouse, garage, green house etc. owner who is a music lover. Social engineer a bar owner, coffee shop manager, theater operator or the like into letting you rehearse in their place or back room during slow times. Use your imagination and social skills and you should be able to acquire a space to rehearse your act.

still needs to satisfy certain criteria: Is it conveniently located for the other members of the band to get there? If you make people travel too far, fight traffic, jump through hoops to park, or enter perilous areas they are not going to be eager to show up regularly.

Is it available on a regular basis? Weekly at best, practicing once a week is optimal. That means the band members must make themselves available too. Long term availability must also be considered. You don’t want to have the rug pulled out from under you just as things get going.

Does it accommodate your sound level? I’m trying to avoid the word noise but a band practicing with drums and instruments at performance levels makes a lot of it. And retakes and mistakes get irritating to non-band people. That includes significant others, neighbors, pets, and any humans in earshot.

Can you store stuff there? Keeping the PA, Drums, and Amps etc. set up or at least stored on the premises saves valuable setup time for rehearsing. Convenience also makes it more likely the band members will reliably show up. Don’t forget to arrange something to record your sessions, this is essential to recall past rehearsal points and to let you hear what your band really sounds like.

Amenities: least important but the more comfortable a place is the better. Room temperature, Bio breaks, refreshments, pleasant surroundings. The coolness factor has its benefits. More work than you thought huh? A lot goes into having a place to rehearse but it is one of the most important things that will enable you to put a band together, develop a professional show, and keep the band together and performing over time. Next time: Gear

The Legacy Of Lita Ford

By Andrew Catania

There’s not many guitarists that have had the career and legacy that Lita Ford has had. Litа wаѕ bоrn оn Sерtеmbеr 19, 1958 in Lоndоn, Englаnd, and grew up in Lоѕ Angеlеѕ. She became the lead guitаriѕt in thе аll-girl hard rосk band Thе Runaways, whose dеbut аlbum wаѕ rеlеаѕеd in 1976. With thеir рunkiѕh ѕоund, рrоvосаtivе ѕtаgе outfits аnd rеbеlliоuѕ lуriсѕ, thе band ѕhосkеd mаnу in thе rосk wоrld, аnd асhiеvеd mild рорulаritу until they brоkе up in 1979. Fоrd then en joyed a ѕuссеѕѕful ѕоlо саrееr in heavy mеtаl, with ѕuсh hitѕ аѕ “Kiѕѕ Me Dеаdlу” аnd “Close Mу Eуеѕ Fоrеvеr.”

Ford was bоrn Cаrmеlitа Rоѕѕаnnа Fоrd tо a Britiѕh fаthеr, and аn Itаliаn mother in Lоndоn, Englаnd. Shе mоvеd with hеr fаmilу to the Unitеd Stаtеѕ аt аgе 4. Shе bеgаn рlауing thе guitаr at аgе 11. Hеr vосаl rаngе iѕ thаt of a mеzzо-ѕорrаnо.

Aftеr the grоuр ѕрlit in 1979, ѕhе bеgаn a solo career. Hеr firѕt album,Out fоr Blood inсluding thе titlе ѕinglе wаѕ released in 1983 аnd hаd nо luсk оn thе сhаrtѕ. The next effort, Dancin’ оn thе Edgе оf 1984 асhiеvеd mоdеrаtе success. It inсludеd the single “Fire In Mу Hеаrt” whiсh reached thе Tор 10 in ѕеvеrаl соuntriеѕ. The nеxt ѕinglе “Gotta Lеt Gо” wаѕ оnе of Fоrd’ѕ biggеѕt hitѕ. It reached Numbеr One on thе Mainstream Rосk сhаrtѕ.

Fоrd tоurеd еxtеnѕivеlу аnd mаdе ѕеvеrаl guеѕt арреаrаnсеѕ оn TV shows for the next four years, but had nо rеlеаѕеѕ; a fоllоw-uр tо Dаnсin’ On Thе Edgе, titled Thе Bridе Wоrе Blасk, wаѕ abandoned аnd never rеlеаѕеd because Ford did not likе thе production оf thе аlbum аnd this upset the hеаd оf hеr record label, lеаding to Fоrd ѕwitсhing from Mеrсurу Records tо RCA Rесоrdѕ. Thе аrtiѕt hаѕ dеѕсribеd thе аlbum as bеing in “Lаbеl hell! Whо knоwѕ what ѕhеlf thаt iѕ ѕitting оn!”

thе timе Fоrd rеturnеd again, thе lighter рор-mеtаl ѕhе had lоng fаvоrеd hаd brоkеn thrоugh tо mаinѕtrеаm аudiеnсеѕ, which set the ѕtаgе fоr hеr most соmmеrсiаllу successful album, 1988’ѕ Lita. With Shаrоn Oѕbоurnе аѕ her mаnаgеr, аnd again рrоduсеd bу herself, the album fеаturеd fоur comial hitѕ, including “Kiss Me Dеаdlу“, “Bасk Tо Thе Cаvе“, “Close My Eyes Fоrеvеr“, and “Falling In And Out Of Love” (co-written with Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüе). The bаllаd “Close Mу Eуеѕ Fоrеvеr“, a duet with Ozzу Osbourne, wаѕ hеr оnlу Tор 10 Billbоаrd Hоt 100 hit, rеасhing #8.

Hеr nеxt release was called Stilеttо. It fеаturеd the ѕinglеѕ “Hungry” and “Liѕа” (the ѕесоnd wаѕ dedicated to hеr mоthеr). Hоwеvеr thiѕ album was nоt as ѕuссеѕѕful аѕ Dаnсin’ On The Edge аnd Litа.

Fоrd’ѕ next rеlеаѕе was Dаngеrоuѕ Curvеѕ, which fеаturеd her lаѕt сhаrting ѕinglе “Shоt Of Pоiѕоn.” Ford’s lаѕt release would be with ZYX Rесоrdѕ and wоuld bе titled Blасk. It failed tо repeat thе ѕuссеѕѕ оf 1991’ѕ Dangerous Curves.

During hеr ѕоlо уеаrѕ, ѕhе wаѕ аn еndоrѕеr оf B.C. Riсh guitаrѕ аnd used Warlock, Eаglе, Mockingbird аnd Biсh ѕinglе аnd dоublе-nесk models. Fоrd арреаrѕ in the 1992 film Highway tо Hell as ‘The Hitchhiker‘. Ford wаѕ аlѕо аѕkеd by VH-1 tо be in thе

cast оf The Surrеаl Life fоr itѕ 7th season, in 2007. She dесlinеd.

In Junе 2008, Fоrd аnd hеr nеw ѕоlо bаnd рlауеd ѕеvеrаl warm-up gigs рriоr to Rосklаhоmа undеr thе name Kiѕѕ Me Deadly in thе Nеw Yоrk City аrеа.

In Junе 2009, Litа bеgаn touring the US аnd Eurоре, with a new line-up consisting of Rоn ‘Bumblеfооt’ Thal (Ex Guns N’ Roses) on Guitаr, Dеnniѕ Lееflаng (Bumblеfооt drummer) аnd PJ Fаrlеу оn bаѕѕ (Trixtеr, Ra) аnd Miсhаеl T. Rоѕѕ (Angеl/XYZ).

Fоrd rеlеаѕеd a new аlbum Wicked Wonderland on Oсtоbеr 6, 2009 viа JLRG Entеrtаinmеnt

Thе album wаѕ writtеn аnd produced by Fоrd, exhuѕbаnd Jim Gillеttе, and Greg Hampton. Litа would tour the US in the Fаll аnd Wintеr оf 2009, inсluding dаtеѕ оn Quееnѕrусhе’ѕ Amеriсаn Soldier Tоur.

Lita would then release a 2012 record titled Living Like a Runaway,a live record in 2014, and her present release called Time Capsule. Time Capsule is old recordings that Lita had for over 20 years. She brought them to LA from the Islands where she was living and remastered them. Time Capsule has several guests on it including Gene Simmons from Kiss. Regardless of how old these recordings are on Time Capsule, this is some of Lita’s best work of eer.

Lita’s crtically acclaimed 2016 memoir, Living Like a Runaway, details the hardships and sacrifices she had to endure in a mostly male environment coming up the ranks as a musician and guitarist.

If Lita has an attitude, she has every right to have one. She’s paved the way for female guitarists/musicians that wouldn’t have to be exposed to what she was 30 years ago. A talented guitarist and musician, I had the plea-

sure of speaking with Lita on her career.

Hi Lita! It is a pleasure to have you here at All That Shreds!

Lita, you have used BC Rich Guitars since the start of your career. Is there something specific about them you have liked over the years?

Oh yes, the original BC Rich guitars are so different than the 2016 guitars. There is no comparison. They are strong and beefy sounding. Mine are iconic, and have pre-amps built into them, the double neck has a chorus and a flanger switch. They are balls to the walls guitars. LOL…

I interviewed Gary Hoey back in June. Gary said he’s going to be working with you on your new record. You and Gary have worked together previously. What should we expect from the new record?

Gary and I have a chemistry together like no other. For me, it takes chemistry to make your music what you expect it to be. Powerful.

Do you write the song first or the lyrics?

I have a lyricist named Michael Dan Ehmig. He is the best I have ever worked with. Together the 3 of us wrote LIVING LIKE A RUNAWAY. It really doesn’t matter which comes first, the lyric or the music. So long as the finished product is awesome and you are happy with it.

In terms of gear, what are you using at present?

I use my Marshall DSL 100 amps, they are beefy as all Hell. And I still use my original BC Richs, Double neck Rich Bich, my Warlocks, Mockingbird, my black Hamer Standard which I used in The Runaways days. It keeps my sound true and very LITA.

Do you change gear every tour?

No. Who’s inspired you for your lead guitar skills?

I was inspired by many greats; Richie Blackmore was my #1 idol. Sabbath. Jeff Beck. Jimmy Page. Johnny Winter. Gilmore. Hendrix.

With the recent discussion of how YouTube compensates, or lack thereof, artists do you have an opinion on the matter?

I didn’t come from a YouTube world. I think it’s something you need to grow up with to appreciate.

With the number of female guitarists on the rise, and some of them saying you inspired them, is there any one you feel you could “pass the torch on” to?

As far as guitar playing goes, and singing together at the same time, not really anyone can do it right now except Lizzy Hale. She’s an amazing vocalist and she is a good player. A great talent. So, if any one of the young woman who are out and about on the music scene today, I’d have to say Lizzy Hale.

Is there one artist that you’d love to work with, but, haven’t?

I don’t know. We’ll have to see what 2017 brings. I’ve been noticing that bands from the 80’s are prospering more in Europe than the US. Would you agree?

I have not noticed. It does seem that Europe is more embracing of metal. Do you have any plans of producing?

I have produced a Canadian band called SAVAGE PLAYGROUND. A bunch of teenaged, young men, a great band with a lot of potential. I also produced a lot of my own recordings. I’d love to get into the studio with the right line up. Yes. I have the experience and would do a great job, I love being in the studio!

Your appearance on That Metal Show was great! Do you think anything more needs to be done to highlight female guitarists?

Yes, I suppose it’s a start though. But it’s sad that females must have their own category. At least woman have their foot in the door now, which is great and all that really matters. I’d like to think I had a helping hand with that.

I loved your book, Living Like a Runaway. It was

a powerful portrayal of the highs and lows of your career. Is there one thing you’d want a reader to take away from reading your book?

One thing? There are a lot of things, growing up a female guitarist where females were not recognized as musicians, a teen in a man’s world, it was bad ass. The hurdles I had to jump and BS I had to put up with to survive in this world as a musician. But I guess if I had to pick one thing out of my book, it would be how corrupt our family legal system is and how they destroy families and children for money. They are an evil bunch of despicable people who hopefully will be caught at this crime one day.

Lastly, do you have any advice for up and coming female guitarists?

That’s hard to say, because everyone is different. But I’d say follow your heart and dreams, don’t let anyone tell you you’re doing something wrong. In Rock N Roll, there are ‘’no rules’’!

Be sure to check Lita out at her official site @ http://litafordonline.com/

LET'S HAVE A ROCKIN CHRISTMAS by Various Artists

A good NEW Christmas song is hard to come by. Bongo Boy Records makes it easier for you in 17 new and exciting ways that should be noted and you should make the effort, be a good little girl or boy and ask Santa for this album, "Let's Have A Rockin Christmas." BE GOOD, FOR GOODNESS SAKE!

- An Album Review by Jenny Cat

Les Fradkin - Say You Love Me For Christmas 2:47 – If you were seeking a song cut in the vein of Darlene Love's "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" then you've found it here with Les Fradkin. He expertly creates the wall of sound vibe from famed producer, Phil Spector. This is a huge sing-a-long ear-worm that will be on the tip of everyone's tongue this season. Bravo!

Walter Rossi – Jingle Jangle 4:54 – This one made me think of the later tune stylings of the Doobie Brothers circa Michael McDonald. Walter Rossi has a keen voice that adds a pure rock dimension to this song. Furthermore, there's a killer guitar line throughout and as always, I'm a big fan of that. LISTEN TO THIS ALREADY, WOULD YA?

The Forty Nineteens – Frosty The Snowman 2:38Who doesn't love this song? Come on. You'd have to be Scrooge himself to not like a rolicking version of Frosty The Snowman. The Forty Nineteens give us just that; a rolicking good time on an old holiday classic. Show this one to your kids or even your cats as it will make them dance. BUY THIS ALBUM.

Peter Unger – Christmas Cards 2:32 - I guess Peter Unger is what Bob Denver's son would sound like if he had James Taylor for a songwriting/guitar mentor! What a pure sound! Effortlessly, Peter Unger's voice elicits tears and nostalgia of the Christmas nights we almost forgot. Great, soulful track. A must own.

Jackie Kringle & The Elves – Let's Have A Rockin Christmas 2:39 - Hey, now this one sounds like it could easily be on Sirius XM Channel 21, the Underground Garage... The bassline makes me think of Radar Love and the lyrics are fun and wild. I dig this one a lot (even if there's a mouth harp solo instead of a guitar solo – I really like guitar solos). Don't hate me for liking guitar solos! Anyway, you too can have a Rockin Christmas, but you have t o buy this album to do that. I promise you won't regret it.

Wayne Olivieri & DJ Chris ibe – I Love Christmas Time (Radio Mix) 4:02 - What a wild mix of digital wizardry and acoustic guitars/bells! WHOA. This is a trippy Christmas dance tune for sure. I suggest getting granny too much eggnog and then popping this bad boy on the stereo and then video her dance for a later youtube upload. DO IT. Buy this album first or at least download this pumping dance track for your next holiday hook up.

Bob Shaw- I Wonder Where You Are This Christmas 2:32 - How many times have you wondered where someone you miss has gone for Christmas? I swear to Santa that Bob Shaw sounds a lot like Axle Rose of Guns-N-Roses. Am I crazy? You listen and YOU tell me. This is a tear jerker for sure so be warned. "I wonder, do you ever think of me?" Yes. I do think of you, Santa so I am asking you to get me this album for Christmas.

Dennis Sy – Christmas Morning 4:11 - This song is fresh. The arrangement is clear and soulful. Easily a favorite and a classic ready to happen to a Christmas near you. The R&B stylings of this track really add a dynamic variety to this album. Bongo Boy Records is never short of variety and this track is a great example of great writing, strong arranging and balanced performance. Bravo. Why isn't this album in your stocking yet?

Deborah Henriksson – The Angel Gabriel 2:05 - WOW. A goosebump maker. This song is beautifully performed by Deborah Henriksson. Everything is perfect. I can't even su ggest a guitar

solo for this one. Having spent a lot of time at Westminster Choir College in my wayward youth, I'd have to say that I'd love to hear this one performed in one of the many beautiful chapels of Princeton, NJ. This is my favorite, thus far on this album. GET IT NOW.

Inches From Sin – Jingle Jangle Jingle 3:34 - I don't know about you, but this song made me feel dirty. Dirty in a good way. Merry Christmas, baby. I think it's the groovy bass line that made me feel dirty, but then again it could be due to some kinky-risque lyrics and crunchy lead guitar. Why don't you have a listen and see if you feel the same?

STEEL ft. Bubu The Producer – Have A Gigolo XMAS ! 5:00 - You know, my experience with Gigolos is pretty limited. "Elementary Gigolo'in. " I can't make this up. This song is right up there with the famed, "Dominick The Donkey" in terms of memorable-ness and holiday spirit. Honest. This could be my family's new tradition. Clever, witty, and well worded; GO HAVE YOURSELF A GIGOLO XMAS!

Tammi T & Keith Hines Production – Go Wish 3:32 - Pump it up, baby! Tammi T has a sweet, soulful voice. I love it. Strong melody, excellent production, this is a great tune and Tammi sends it home with her beautiful voice. This is a fun song with a message of hope. The vocal bridges featuring diverse harmonic elements really help to create drama and tension before the last choruses. Amazing track. Have you bought this album yet? Come on!

Ysanne ft. ZanZclan – Christmas In The Sun 3:32 - Great melody, great reggae feel, this is a grooving song with stellar writing and keen arrangement and yes, Virginia there is a steel drum in this one. Haven't you ever wanted to have a Christmas in the Sun and find a new special someone after being dumped by someone on Christmas in the snow?? Well, if yes, then GET THIS SONG. If not, then get this whole album and by the time you get to this song, you'll feel the sentiment in your heart. I'm still grooving to it and I'm not even in the sun right now.

Cousins STEEL & Cortez – 1,2,3 4:30 - A kid's dance a long tune that could be used on adults if bribed with enough holiday spirits (adults hate dancing when they think other adults are looking). Be happy. A simple, yet often overlooked message during this time of the year when people are rushing about and being crazed with shopping and stress. De-stress yourself by jumping along to this song, and while you're at it, buy the whole album because you'll thank me later. Promise.

Sarantos – It’s Christmas Time 4:30 - A jazz y tune of the season recounting positive holiday memories and good times. Hey yeah! This one is a warm one filled with happy tidings of great joy. If you have a dysfunctional family at Christmas (like many of us), you'll want to wrap this song around you because it's that comforting. True story. Share this one with your loved ones.

Bob Shaw – Don’t Forget The Christ in Christmas 2:40 - Sleigh bells ring as you really learn what the C.H.R.I.S.T stands for in Christmas. Plus, there's a whip sound in the song. Don't worry, it was to get those lazy Reindeer up and going for Xmas eve. This is a hootenanny of a track and it will easily replace "Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reindeer" this holiday season.

Bob Shaw – Sleigh Ride (Comedy Sketch) 4:15 - Any decent self-respecting holiday album has to have a comedy sketch. This one is quite clever and I love the echoing reverb used as it reminds me of the reverb I once heard on a CB radio on route 78 back in the "day." This is a diamond in the rough track for sure and you'll want to gather round with the family to listen to this one and have a hoot. Spoiler alert: They use a kazoo as a human emissions noise.

AVIALABLE WORLDWIDE

ALIBUM (CD) at WWW.BONGOBOYRECORDS.COM

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Music Review by Jenny Cat

Bongo Boy Records Releases Tom Vicario New Album “Baby Lets Go” and This Reviewer Tells You To Buy It TODAY !

“BABY LET’S GO,” a new release from Bongo Boy Records Recording Artist, Tom Vicario is a definitive must-have CD/download for any self-respecting, old school country and rock and roll music fan. Tom’s smooth yet earthy country voice does each song justice.

Francis and Tom Vicario at SHOWTIME STUDIOS)

Track one, “Baby Let’s Go” is an original penned by Bongo Boy Record great, Gar Francis. The song has that good old Memphis tone and it is a composition that would have been most certainly recorded by Carl Perkins for Sam Phillp’s on Sun Records. It’s just that good of a song with a simple message of marrying the one you love. Tom’s warm vocal tone really sends the meaning home with the listener and you’ll find yourself tapping your toes as this song will get stuck in your head.

Track two, “Heartbreak Hotel,” the classic Elvis Presley song is expertly interpreted and sung by Tom. The arrangement here is true to the roots of the original and does not fail to please even the most discerning critic. It’s a really enjoyable rendition of this classic Elvis favorite.

Track three, “Take A Rose” is another Gar Francis original expressively sung by Tom in a very beautiful way that truly portrays the sentimental feelings of the song. What’s great about Gar’s music and Tom’s voice is that these original compositions fit so perfectly with the more widely known early rock/country standards that one could assume these tunes were also huge hits from way back when. That high caliber songwriting is clearly seen with “Take A Rose.”

Track four, “Ring of Fire” starts with those iconic trumpets as Tom takes us through his own interpretation of this famous Johnny Cash tune. Tom never strays from the original form and his voice is hauntingly similar to Mr. Cash’s. If I had to vote for my favorite

(Gar

rendition of this song by an up and coming artist, it would be this version sung by Tom Vicario.

Track five, “Looking To The Future” is a great old tune with a honkey-tonk feel that will make you want to dance. Do people even dance anymore? Well they should when this song is playing. The guitar work on this song is inspiring and will make you want more. Tom makes his hilarious plight for an old-fashioned girl highly palpable with this one. A fun song for all of your honkeytonking activities.

Track six, “Mystery Train” – yes yes yes yes. I’m glad Tom added this tune to his release because it is a must have for any selfrespecting singer. Once again, the arrangement is true to the original style and that’s important. Tom’s earthy voice, complete with slap-back echo make one long for fast hot-rods and rolled up jeans, for sure. Maybe some more guitar licks in this one? Everyone loves hot guitar licks (especially me).

Track seven, “All The Good Things” reminds me of a good old country ballad song. The acoustic guitars really set the tone and I can already picture the sea of lonesome souls drinking at the bar as they remember their happier days. This is another Gar Francis tune that competes well with these better known hits. Francis is no slouch as a songwriter and is a mastermind of the guitar. Tom Vicario’s voice does this song the most justice as he encompasses that honest and warm tone associated with the big country and western classics. This is a song to sit back with on the porch while you’re sipping beer.

Track eight, “That’s Alright” is an ode to Elvis once more. Tom delivers a strong vocal performance. The guitar solo is effortless and when combined, all of these elements bring the listener back to a simpler time when cars were fast, boys could be bad and no one played on their cell phones all day. Awesome work on this one, fellas. Keep it up.

Track nine, “Folsom Prison,” Tom nails this one. He’s got that iconic warble to his voice and Johnny Cash tone. The arrangement is spot-on and it’s most certainly the best rendition of Folsom that I’ve heard, and I get out a lot. Really. Great guitar work, too. I love how this release has true to the original arrangements and that’s a big reason why this version of the classic Johnny Cash hit is such a smash.

Track ten,” I Walk The Line,” I was wondering if this was in the cards for us on this release. Thankfully it is and it’s great. Tom really has a knack and understanding of Johnny Cash’s voice and music and it really shows. The guitar work is true to the original and I could listen to this version of this classic all day and I implore you to do the same. If you haven’t bought this music yet, then what are you waiting for?!

Track eleven, “Sangria” is a much different tune than what we’ve seen on the rest of this album but it’s a good sort of different that adds variety. Tom proves that he cannot only sing classic rock and country but he can add a contemporary vibe, proving his versatility as a vocalist. Great tune but could have used more lead guitar somewhere, maybe in the intro or as a solo (but then again, I’m biased because I’m a guitarist and I love guitar – so judge for yourself – BUY THE ALBUM ALREADY).

Track 12 is an honest thank you from Tom to us. I think it’s awesome he decided to add this thank you section because it is important to remember those who have influenced us musically. Not only does Tom thank his influences, but also he gives some love to Gar Francis and Bongo Boy Records. How cool is that?

If you haven’t bought this album yet, do me a favor and get a copy. You’ll thank me later. - Jenny Cat

Disc/Download:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tomvicario

Artist Official WebSite: www.tomvicariomusic.com

Record Label: www.bongoboyrecords.com

FEATURE VIDEO CLIP HERE -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9HCfNzndCE

MUSIC REVIEW by JENNY CAT

VOLUME X by various artists, Bongo Boy Records

Where Does Bongo Boy Records Find Such Unique and Crazy Talent?

I'm a Huge Fan of This One and Think It Caps This Album Well.

As a long time listener of dance music when I go to the gym (that's usually what they're playing when I'm trying to smash the boxing bag), this song hits the mark. It's a prime example of a finely-tuned dance song that will make you get up and move. There's no shortage of "drops" and the build up creates envy worthy anticipation. Excellent groove and pumping vibe. A must listen! Get it now for your next party.

Hey now! This song is great. Perfect vocals, perfect mix. Wow. I can easily imagine this epic ballad as part of a chick flick soundtrack. Catchy, too. Colette delivers a convincing pop vocal that can be compared to the likes of the great Karen Carpenter and it really drives this song home. If you're secretly looking for a new song to cry to alone in the car or the shower, then get it. Now. I really enjoy this one.

1. Sweet Harmony - EsQuille Feat. Keisha Renee 3:12 (DANCE)

2. Last Kiss – Colette Kavanagh 3:52 (POP)

Complete with a groovy chord progression, this song delivers a powerful positive vibe. It takes a little time to get to the chorus, but when it drops, you feel at home with this positively intentioned song. The bridge stands out really well within the tune and feeds nicely into the chorus (which is intoxicatingly catchy). A great tune with a great message. Go get it.

Yes, some nicely timed reggae vibes direct to you. "Shining Through" is a welcome addition to this album as it harkens us back to a time of summer heat and sand and those endless nights of good times. This is another track with a catchy chorus that will stick to the roof of your mind. I feel relaxed and recharged thanks to ReLoVe.

What a spicy, sexy song with an exotic flare. Seriously, makes you think of wearing dark eyeliner and leading off on a mysteriously sensual adventure. Even if you're just listening to this juicy track to go to the grocery store, it's a keeper and a winner. Beautiful chord changes, smart and silky vocals. Yes. Yes. Yes.

3. Shine On – Dennis Sy Feat. Natalie Jean and Darick DDS Spears 3:50 (POP)

4. Shining Through – ReLoVe 3:39 (POP)

5. Santa Maria – Yona Pax 4:04 (POP)

7. Come Back, Come Back – Inches

From Sin 3:25 (POP)

The song opens with a great melody. The production highlights the track well and it's a great example of a female/male vocal duo. Reminds me of the band, Dr. Hook of "Sylvia's Mother" fame. I would have boosted the bass a little more (but that's just me) in the mix but other than that, the track is solid and the vocals are ever present which helps to sell the song. Great work! Go get a copy already...

Another beautiful ballad with a soft, endearing quality of sound that haunts me with distant pangs of groups like The Backstreet Boys or Seal. Strong chorus, great vocals, an excellent song of romantic hope. I'm a huge fan of the vocal harmony solo just after the second chorus. What a great way to build the tenderness of the tune and lead up to the final chorus. Great tune!

6. Leave The Light On – Johnny Douglas 3:01 (POP)

I'm not going to lie, I put my arms up in the air as soon as this song started playing in my car. That was dangerous, so I put my hands back on the wheel. I could feel my leather jacket slowly transforming into a sexy cocktail dress and my booty began to mysteriously shake in my car seat. This song is a good time waiting to happen. Get it on at your next party with this one.

This track is reminiscent of a mix of 90's alternative rock and a little bit of the 1960's. Instantly, I'm a fan. The guitar riff takes me back to a taste of the Grateful Dead. I can hear every lyric clearly and the harmonies are sweet. This song is a free thinkers delight and the chorus is just sweet and highly memorable. The bridge is perfect and the song is a must have for your collection.

8. Good Vibes – STEEL Feat. Nina Sol 3:34 (DANCE)

9. Like Destiny – Barley Station 3:15 (ROCK)

A fun beat, cool piano riff, excellent melody that takes me back to early rock like those big girl groups back in the 1960's when things were much more simple. Pamela not only sings but plays all of her own instruments when putting together her tracks and that's just too cool. Great work, Pamela!

Sick song. I mean that as a compliment. Any song that tells me to "raise my vibe" is a'ight with me. For real. Think for yourself. "Butt naked in the Everglades." I love this song. It's like verbal ear candy for the mind and soul. GO GET A COPY NOW.

10. You Showed Me What Love Can Do – Pamela Davis 3:03 (POP)

11. Hi Beams – Waheed Ahmad 3:06 (HIP HOP)

12. The Golfers Rap –YSANNE Feat.

ZanZclan 3:31 (RAP)

HAAAAAA, yes. The opening beat is sick and directly from a casio keyboard. I love it. I'm not a golfer or anything but dang this is a fun song. "Give it a tap." Ok, if you insist. The girl voice that comes in is a little weird and warbly sounding but it works! Spoiler alert: My favorite part is the angry wife at the end.

Overall summary: Bongo Boy Records does it again by providing a sampler of true variety with examples from all music genres. Seriously, a fun album filled with quality music and some quirky tunes to keep you guessing. This is a must own album for any collection. – Jenny Cat

https://vimeo.com/192379748

BONGO BOY TV – FALL ALL OVER IT

Review by Dawn Belotti

Season 5 Episode 1095

The Bongo Boy Rock N' Roll TV Show is proud to present their Television Broadcast episode 1095 "Fall All Over It ” featuring 6 Music Video productions by talented independent international recording artists in 1 special ½ hour TV show. Also this episode is featuring Grammy® members Indus Raag-2, Suzanne Grzanna. . Matthew Mayer, Lynn Yew Evers and Don Grzanna

This Bongo Boy TV produced episode aired on all 60+ channels in the Bongo Boy TV Network of broadcast from Los Angeles – Nashville - New York – and many other cities Nationwide.

FEATURE TV VIDEO CLIP HERE - https://vimeo.com/190595879

North Carolina’s Valient Thorr rock with their video “Looking Glass.” With the hard rock sound and traditional rock and roll appearance; this band would fit perfectly in the 1970s era when rock music was serious rock music. Director Jethro Waters does a great job creating an interesting and well made piece of art. Music Video Director: Jethro Waters http://www.valientthorr.com/

San

with her song “Delightful.” Her voice is soothing; her video

entertaining

with enough talent and appeal to lure male viewers. Her story details a woman having quality “me” time while obviously dealing with a complicated relationship issue. I think most people enjoy a day browsing shops, having lunch where they please or wander through a book store. Besides, I want to raid her closet!

Music Video Director: Anna Haas www.katiegaribaldi.com

Francisco Grammy member Katie Garibaldi channels a bit of Nora Jones and a bit of Anna Nalik

an

chick flick

New York City’s Conceptz have got to be the hardest working, most focused rap artists. These guys churn out music and videos. Their “Backwards” video may function as an ode to stre et music but it details their struggle in the music industry and also showcases what intelligent young men they are. They directed the video as well.

Music Video Director: Conceptz www.conceptzmusic.net

Ireland is the background for Colette Kavanagh’s “Last Kiss” video. Wandering the Irish countryside, Kavenagh, who is a stunner, also has one hell of a voice. Her lyric “You will Always Be the One” takes on a different meaning while she leaves a rose on Celtic headstone; possibly indicating the true meaning of her song may be a deeper loss. I would be interested in hearing more from this gal.

Music Video Director: Shane Serrano www.colettekavanagh.com

From Dorset in Great Britain, Ysanne ft. ZanZclan with “The Golfer’s Rap”- A rap song and video about golf- now I have seen everything. These guys have a great sense of humor and their video is a blast. Dare I ask if “Hole in One” is a play on words?

Music Video Director: Ysanne Twitter: @ysanne10 https://www.facebook.com/YSANNE10/

Philadelphia, The City of Brotherly Love and the band Spoken Life. “Reality” has a strong acoustic vibe and reminds me a bit of Coldplay and a bit of Oasis. The song is genuine and there is some serious talent here. Really good songwriting, a melodic style and a positive message gives this artist a lot of potential for the future.

Music Video Director: Gil Griffith and Monique Grimme http://www.spokenlifemusic.com/

Ending this episode are showcase TV spots of artists on the 59th Grammy Award Ballot

In the Best World Music and Craft category, Indus Raag-2, the ‘Karachi Concerts’

For Best Jazz Instrumental, the next video features jazz vocalist, saxophonist and composer Suzanne Grzanna. She is also up for Best Christian Gospel with “Wedding Day Best Children Pianist and composer Matthew Mayer is the next with his album ‘Art.’

Another contemporary concert pianist and composer, Lynn Yew Evers, is also on the 59th Grammy® ballot with her piece "Finding You."

The last entry on the ballot is Don Grzanna with his album, ‘Paris Connection. Grzanna's album takes you on a romantic stroll through streets of Paris with French tangos, waltzes, polkas and more and best of all, it's played on an accordion giving this music a truly authentic vibe.

BONGO BOY TV – WE ROCK, WE PLAY

Review by Dawn Belotti

Season 5 Episode 1097

The Bongo Boy Rock N' Roll TV Show is proud to present their Television Broadcast episode 1097 "We Rock, We Play” featuring 5 Music Video productions by talented independent international recording artists in 1 special ½ hour TV show.

Los Angeles resident, John Mullane, debuts his latest video from his album Shine. Mullane’s “Born Beautiful” video was nominated for an IMEA award and showcases his 90s pop style. John is no stranger to the industry; his music has appeared in film and television

and this song has the same potential. The well written song, with its accompanying video, touches on believing in one’s self. One can see why John Mullane has enjoyed success.

Music Video Director: Dillon Garland www.johnmullane.com

Music Video Director: Jerome

www.michaelresin.com

Hailing from Turkey, a country that loves its rock music, Kivanc Kilicer offers a video for “Devil’s Thoughts.” This rocker would be perfect in a 1980s video before MTV’s demise. Complete with crafty guitar playing a lot of pyromania, this is a well made and interesting video.

Music Video Director: Kivanc Kilicer and Seda Diren www.kivanckilicer.com

Swiss Crooner Michael Resin is back with his song

“Praying For a Miracle”

The video details the effects of terrorism which is in the forefront of world issues. Resin, a successful director and songwriter, has already found a niche on his home continent. With “Praying For a Miracle” he can reach farther shores.

Resin

Norway gives us The Naveblues; who takes on the mighty Led Zeppelin with “Thank You.” In order to handle a cover song, especially one of this status, is to choose wisely and then make it your own. Chris Cornell tackled this song with his four octave range but there is no law that Robert Plant can only be designated to super vocalists. The Naveblues perform a unique version of the song and certainly made it their own. Along with an interesting video about settling is distant worlds, this is an enjoyable rendition.

Music Video Director: Maria Galllani Dyrvik

www.Facebook.com/The Naveblues-120485540129

Bongo Boy associate, Gar Francis, takes us back to the 1980s with “Back in 1985.” We all love to reminisce whether it is growing up in past decades or our high school days. For me, and many others, the 1980s was our high school time period. The video is a time machine to the days of mullet hairstyles, 1980s fashion, and listening to vinyl on a turntable. The song tells a story of wondering about people you knew and the ones that got away. This is one of my favorite videos on Bongo Boy TV.

Music Video Editor: Monique Grimme www.garfrancis.com

Jordan Green Official TV Spot for his new album “Needle In A Haystack”

Released on Bongo Boy Records

www.jordangreenmusic.com

Michael Resin Official TV Spot for his new album “Praying For A Miracle”

Released on Bongo Boy Records www.michaelresin.com

BONGO BOY TV – LETS HAVE A ROCKIN CHRISMAS

Review by Dawn Belotti | Season 5 Episode 1098

The Bongo Boy Rock N' Roll TV Show is proud to present their Television Broadcast episode 1098 "Lets Have A Rockin Christmas” featuring 7 Holiday Season Music Video productions by talented independent international recording artists in 1 special ½ hour TV show. Broadcasting this Holiday Season on National Television and also here online.

FEATURE VIDEO GOES HERE -> https://vimeo.com/195238544

Los Angeles Native, Will Jay sings a sweet pop diddy about wanting the girl of his heart to visit in “Christmas Comes Early.” With an innocence that is often lacking in today’s pop, Will implores a young lady to make Christmas come early by heading his way. Who couldn’t fall for a few Christmas dogs under the tree? I am sure Will’s inbox will be quite full of willing young lady participants after this video.

Music Video: Christmas Comes Early | Record Label: Will Jay Music

Album: Christmas Comes Early | Music Video Director: Ernie Vasquez

YSANNE’s song “Christmas In The Sun” takes a different approach to Christmas Romance. As with many people who are dealing with a break up around the holidays, the perfect antidote is to get away from the reminders and have some fun. While not all of us are able to take off to an island when we want to; this is what music is for. Lyrics are successful because we can relate to them. The Dorset England gentleman wants to get away from the reminders of his relationship and go someplace warm and have a blast. The song has a terrific reggae sound and I am sure YSANNE would not be single long during his trip. That is all I will say about that!

Music Video: Christmas In The Sun ft. ZanZclan.

Record Label: Bongo Boy Records

Album: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas

Music Video Director: YSANNE

From Los Angeles, CA, The Forty Nineteens remake a classic with “Frosty The Snowman.” The video looks partly like a home movie and partly like a parody and it works; this video is a hoot! I love the band’s sense of humor and their sound. They are a mix of punk, rock, and grunge which translates to a really good music vibe.

Music Video: Frosty The Snowman | Record Label: Bongo Boy Records

Album: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Music Video Director: Monique Grimme

Allentown PA honors us with Pastor Peter Unger and his song “Christmas Cards ” His country style tune is portrayed in a video of Christmas Cards.

From nativity scenes to decorated homes, I found the video very interesting to watch. The choice of photos properly rep resented with Pastor Unger wanted to say.

Music Video: Christmas Cards | Record Label: Bongo Boy Records

Album: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Music Video Director: Lisa Koza

Plainfield New Jersey Wayne Olivieri / DJ Chris Ibe wish us a very techno Christmas with “I Love Christmas Time (remix)” This song is going to be popular in the dance clubs if it is not already. An upbeat song and very cool light show makes you want to get up and dance. Good job, gentleman.

Music Video: I Love Christmas Time (Remix) | Record Label: Bongo Boy Records

Album: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Music Video Director: Monique Grimme

Plainfield, New Jersey seems to be on a roll. The Doughboys are having a rocking Christmas at the famous Stone Pony. Their song “Lets Have a Rockin Christmas” is rocking and fun. I hear some Ramones in these guys and a lot of Doors. These are two bands I really like so I want to hear more from this band.

Music Video: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Record Label” Bongo Boy Records

Album Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Music Video Director: Monique Grimme

Colorado, guitar wizard Les Fradkin, who has recording top notch instrumentals, also sings “Say You Love Me For Christmas” . One thing I have enjoyed about watching these videos is these Christmas songs are written by these artists and are on their way to becoming new classics. Yes, carolers will still sing “Deck The Halls” but they may be singing this one some day in the futur e. This is a well written song, upbeat and positive. Who would not want to hear “ I love You” on Christmas Day? Very cool guitar too, Les.

Music Video: ”Say you Love Me For Christmas” | Record Label: Bongo Boy Records

Album: Lets Have a Rockin Christmas | Music Video Director: Loretta Pieper

Eric Tier’s Rockin My Hair Off For Cancer Benefit

Greetings! My name is Eric Tier. I do Toys for Tots Benefit Concert every year and now I am incorporating a Cancer Foundation Benefit and Hair for Wigs donation as well.

The benefit concert is Saturday December 17th @ Mardi Gras Multi Club 1500 Oaklawn Ave, Cranston RI., Performing will be 8 of the best local bands – Sinners, Alice In Chains, Beast Over Boston, Under Surveillance, Sunset-Steel, Opiate, Rahway and national Touring Band Starr Dust playing all night long. The show will run from 5 pm until 1 am. There will be a $10 donation cover at the door, or free admission with a brand new unwrapped toy.

The money raised from the GoFundMe page will go for me to cut my hair on stage that night, and will be donated to the cancer foundation as my hair will be donated to wigs for kids. I will be doing raffles for things like a signed guitar by the members of classic rock band- “Styx”, as well as other auction items.

We have sausages hamburgers, cheeseburgers all for $3 each for the charities from 5pm on. Door prizes for at least the first 4hrs so come in early and get a chance at a free door prize just for being there. Plenty of raffle items and auction

To donate, please see our page at: https://www.gofundme. com/3wzx7sxw

The toys raised will go to the US Marines Toys for Tots RI. So besides donating funds here you can attend the concert with some of the area’s best local music and auction items all night long. Please come out and support 3 very important charities in one night and you can start by donating here... I have lost a lot to cancer and know how it affects every one of every age. Thank you for your continued support of these great causes...Eric

Items:

$1 RAFFLES

23 gift baskets

12 pieces of jewelry

Matthias Steele cd pkg

Steven Wright Baseball

Stryper cd & pass pkg

Ski mount lift tickets

Street Corner Symphony & Andy Davies

Signed CD’s

2 Massage gift cert.

Mohegan Sun Buffet gift cert

Foxwoods Gladys Knight tickets

Cranston rink 10 free skate sessions

Service for 8 coffee set

Trinity brew house pkg

2 65% off gift cert. for paintings

7 Tattoo gift cert.

$3 RAFFLES

Jameson Trilogy & whiskey serving set

Signed Guitar –

Trixter, Airbourne, Dark Sky Orchestra & Signed Skidrow drumhead

Signed Jackson

Guitar by all bands playing benefit

Samsung VR Oculus

Grey goose neon sign, Yuengling

adiraondack chair, Svedka vodka

cooler

2 pair Boston Celtics tickets with

2 pair Prov Bruins tickets

Boston Bruins tickets with Prov Bruins tickets

2 Ultimate gift cert pkgs worth over $200 ea

Guitar and base by Kate

Wine painting

Leather jacket & 60 gift cert for Iggy’s

Styx Guitar Auction

$10 RAFFLES

9ft 3pc Slate Pool

Nutcracker Ballet Review

STATE THEATRE CENTER FOR THE ARTS, SATURDAY DECEMBER 10, 2016

By Alexxis Steele

Photos by Brian Smith

I have always loved the ballet, starting in my early teenage years, when I took 3 years of Classical Ballet, back in Southampton, Pa in the early seventies. One regret I had was that I never took “Pointe”, otherwise known as “toe dancing”, because that is what ballerina’s dreams are made of. To

be able to perform in “The Nutcracker Ballet”, or “Swan Lake”, has to be the top two choices of desire.

I had never been to a professional ballet show, so I was very excited that I was going to see the Christmas show- The Nutcracker”, at the State Theatre, in Easton, Pa on December 10th. I have seen shows like this on television, but not in person, and I was amazed at how this show came to life on stage with beautiful costumes, lifelike backdrops, and vivid colors.

This show was The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, with almost 40 dancers performing, which is the only internationally touring ballet with award winning dancers. There were two shows available, but

I chose the 7 pm show, which ran over two and a half hours, which included a sleigh ride through the magical snow forest with falling snow that descended upon the stage and the audience.

Other highlights were the dance of the Three headed Rat King, and Act II, which was dedicated to world peace, that boasted a cannon that shot roses, and The beautiful two dancer Dove of Peace, with a 20 foot wingspan.

This delightful show is a must see for anyone of all ages at Christmas time to get in to the holiday spirit, that I look forward to seeing again next year!

Trans Siberian Orchestra

At PPL Center

Allentown, PA November 18, 2016

Pictorial Photos By Jeffrey Crammer

Poetry by Yvonne Sotomayor

BECERRA

Blustery waves of love

Sway the very core of me

Inconceivable joy and forgiveness

Drench my skin

I am shaken by warm hugs

My ancestors can now share

I can finally exhale-for now

There is more to come

It awaits along the Andean shore

More eager faces and smiles to see

A miraculous encounter

Four decades in the making

Perhaps it’s all in the timing

We became all at the ready

Finally a willingness before it was too late

All down to the wire—but not a never anymore

The past has been awakened

Putting disturbances to rest

Now all souls can exhale peacefully

Within the comfort of storytelling

And though a brief beginning

A huge opening has been created

I hope to continue the steady guidance

Into familial new territory

As we sail through a rebirth of old wounds

Healing and giving faith and love a chance

Thank you to you who are our focus

Thank you to you who are our founder

I am nostalgic at uncreated memories

But will solve your puzzle

To piece together the other half of my story

BECERRA

Olas abrasadoras de amor

Mueven el mismo núcleo de mí

Inconcebible alegría y perdón

Remoja mi piel

Me siento sacudida por cálidos abrazos

Mis antepasados ahora pueden compartir

Por fin puedo exhalar, por ahora

Hay mas por venir

Nos espera a lo largo de la costa Andina

Más rostros ansiosos y sonrisas para ver

Un encuentro milagroso

Cuatro décadas en la fabricación

Tal vez es todo en el momento

Nos alistamos todos

Finalmente buena disposición antes de que fuera demasiado tarde

Todo hasta el ultimo momento, pero no un nunca

más

El pasado ha sido despertado

Poniendo los disturbios al descanso

Ahora todas las almas pueden exhalar en paz

Dentro de la comodidad de nuetros cuentos

Y aunque sea un breve comienzo

Se ha creado una gran apertura

Espero continuar la guía constante

En un nuevo territorio familiar

Mientras navegamos a través de un renacimiento de viejas heridas

Sanandonos y dando fe y amor una oportunidad

Gracias a ti que eres nuestro foco

Gracias a ti que eres nuestra fundadora

Soy nostálgica a los recuerdos no creados

Pero resolvere tu rompecabezas

Para reunir la otra mitad de mi historia

Poetry by Yvonne Sotomayor

THANKFUL

I am thankful for the love finally reached

Love of self and others

I am beginning to understand

Or trust to know

That I’ll always have me to rely on

That I am goodness flawed

And that’s ok

That I am a memory worth having

A life that is to be loved and needed

A history worth revealing

A worthy companion and wife

With my feet of clay

I move in this glorious adventure

Frolicking and fearing

Always humbled by a good deed

Wanting and wary

Of those all around me

With arms outstretched

Yet ready to flee

Yearning for words that caress

Yet listening for the letdown

I try to change old habits

Ensconced in my very bones

Adapt to new muscular movements

That will propel me to new openness

I strive for a better posture

To receive life’s enchanted gifts

From that girl came my Rock

To withstand another’s horrid storm

From my advisor was gentle guidance

To understand the maelstrom provided

From my umbilical connector came shelter

Once I learned to stand in the cold

And regain my dignity and senses

Reality slowly returned

As I had once known it

But I was forever changed

I still hold a darkness

My poor mate must contend with

But he helps me destroy it

Piece by ever-bleeding piece

And so I’m healing in his love

Healing in my tenderness

Healing in again seeing the possibility of the world

No matter what king may come

I am determined to be cloaked in love

AGRADECIDA

Estoy agradecida por el amor finalmente alcanzado

Amor de uno mismo y de los demás

Estoy empezando a entender

O confíar en saber

Que siempre me tendre a mi misma en quien confiar

Que soy bondad con fallas

Y eso está bien

Que soy un recuerdo digno de tener

Una vida que debe ser amada y necesaria

Una historia digna de revelarse

Una digna compañera y esposa

Con mis pies de arcilla

Me muevo en esta aventura gloriosa

Follando y temiendo

Siempre humilde en la presencia de una buena acción

Queriendo y cuidadosa

De los que me rodean

Con los brazos extendidos

Pero igual, lista para huir

Anhelo de palabras que acarician

Sin embargo, escuchando por la decepción

Trato de cambiar los hábitos viejos

Penetrados en mis huesos

Adaptandome a nuevos movimientos musculares

Que me impulsarán a una nueva apertura

Me esfuerzo por una mejor postura

Para recibir regalos encantados de la vida

De esa chica vino mi Roca

Para soportar la horrible tormenta de otro

De mi consejera fue suave orientación

Para entender el torbellino provisto

De mi conectora umbilical vino refugio

Una vez que aprendí a soportar el frío

Y recuperar mi dignidad y mis sentidos

La realidad volvió lentamente

Como lo había sabido una vez

Pero yo estaba cambiada para siempre

Todavía tengo una oscuridad

Con cual mi pobre compañero debe lidiar

Pero él me ayuda a destruirlo

Pedazo por pedazo sangrado

Y así estoy sanando en su amor

Curandome en mi ternura

Sanandome nuevamente viendo la posibilidad del mundo

No importa cual rey venga

Estoy decidida ser encubierta en amor

LUCHITA

Cloaked in sad strength

Your sweet child’s face

Holds the pain of loss

Discomforted by sensation

You call upon the wintry shoulder

But in your very center’s heart

Your softness abounds and keeps you sane

The safe gate that keeps you erect and stable

Will one swing open and let in the light

Rest assured your companions are right outside

Waiting for your return and embrace

A soft touch--a kind word

And a gentle calm smile

We will wait at arm’s length

At your bidding—for now

Know that love surrounds you

And is holding your soul

LUCHITA

Cubierta en fuerzas tristes

Tu cara de niñita dulce

Sostiene el dolor de la pérdida

Desconcertada por la sensación

Llamas al hombro invernal

Pero en el centro de tu corazón

Tu suavidad abunda y te mantiene cuerda

La puerta segura que te mantiene erguida y estable

Se abrirá un dia y dejará entrar la luz

Ten la seguridad de que sus compañeros están cerca

Esperando tu regreso y abrazo

Un toque suave - una palabra amable

Y una sonrisa tierna y tranquila

Esperaremos a la cerca distancia

A tu gusto-por ahora

Acepta que el amor te rodea

Y es lo que aguanta tu alma

Suzanne Grzanna’s Award Winning Album

Hej America!

DAYBREAK Is A Great Album!

I am back with another review for my friends at Bongo Boy records. This time around they asked me to give a listen to and share my thoughts about a Jazz EP, Daybreak by Suzanne Grzanna. Honestly, my first thought was “Oh no, I don’t want a headache!” You see folks, I freely admit that I am simply not smart enough for a lot of Jazz. While the Hipsters can go on about the innovative prowess of a musician who is able to effortlessly switch between multiple time signatures in one song, all I can think is “Make it stop! Good God, make it stop!”

Then I remembered my old band teacher in junior high and high school. I learned a lot from Mr. Case. He is the one who taught me that “the right note in the wrong place is really the wrong note.” Mr. Case was also a huge Jazz Head. So it was with him in mind that I cued up the EP by Suzanne Grzanna.

Imagine my elation when I realized that the “Jazz” on this EP is more akin to Blues or old R&B than what I usually think of as Jazz. Stated very simply, this music sounds good. It isn’t a cacophony of oddly tuned instruments trying to make a statement. This, folks, is music that I like. To paraphrase Mr. Case: “This chick can groove.”

So what exactly will the listener find on Daybreak?

Track 1 - Fever - Yes, it is that old bluesy track we all know. The track starts with an ominous bass line and keyboards that just ooze attitude. When Suzanne comes in with her outrageously sultry voice the entire roof comes off. I could listen to her trade licks with her horn man all afternoon. (I would say all day, but as we all know Jazz Heads never get up before noon...)

Track 2 - Daybreak - This track begins with some rather classical sounding piano and then a horn, I believe a saxophone, comes in. The horn, backed by a bass and a drummer using brushes plays nicely off of the keyboards. I will admit, this song is a bit difficult for me to follow musically, but as I mentioned above I am stupid. What I can tell, however is, that everyone in this band is a very good player. (I secretly envy them all!)

Track 3 - It Had to be You - is a little more my speed. The band comes in and immediately sets down an infectious groove that even an old Punk can follow. What really gets my attention though is Suzanne’s voice. She has quite the range and certainly packs a lot of emotion into each phrase. I realize that I am actually enjoying this track very much.

Track 4 - Mercy Mercy Mercy - Get ready for some old-soul music. The horn on this track is fantastic and the keys in the background are just so funky. I cannot help smiling each time I listen to this tune. The horn goes on what can only be described as a funk bender. This is followed by some ver y nice keyboard work while the bass makes his presence felt by shaking the bottom. The scat singing is a brilliant touch. I am becoming a fan!

Track 5 - Almost Like Being in Love - The brushes and massive keyboards are back when Suzanne’s beautiful voice comes in. I really like her voice. I like it so much I almost miss the musical war going on between the drummer and the bass player. They are both in the background each trying to outdo the other while staying within the confines of the song. These folks can really play! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the supercool keyboard solo that

ends with the bass stepping up to dominate the musical space. I am listening to a musical knife fight.

Suddenly the vocals come in and like a mother used to fighting children she calms everyone down. This is perhaps the best song on the EP.

Track 6 - Black Orpheus - For some reason this song has, to me, a Santana vibe. That is odd, because I do not hear a guitar. What I do hear is a funky rhythm laid down by the keyboards with support from the bass and the drums. How funky is it? I am having trouble following what they are doing. That is a two edged sword. On the one hand I am confronted by the fact that I am a rock and roll drummer. (That means I cannot count higher than 4.) On the other hand, once I have made peace with the fact that I cannot keep up with what they are doing, I can fully concentrate on just how good each of these guys is. This is a band of absolute monster players and I feel I have grown musically from simply listening to their work.

So folks, what is the bottom line? The bottom line is that reviewing music I hear a lot of records. Very few of the records I hear make it to the collection I listen to for personal enjoyment. This EP has made it all the way to my phone. I liked this EP so much I want to be able to listen to it when I am waiting for the bus (yes I said bus, a driver’s license costs roughly $1000.00 USD and gasoline is $8.50 a gallon...)

I enjoyed this record and I think you will enjoy it too.

The Grouch | Sweden

Album Sampler -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pE_EIfdLjXU

MUSIC REVIEW – CHRISTMAS COMPILATION ALBUM

God Jul America !

God Jul is how we say Merry Christmas in Sweden. This is a good Christmas as I just received a present from my friends at Bongo Boy records. They have released a Christmas album titled Lets Have A Rockin Christmas and they have asked me to share my thoughts about the tracks on the album. So, let’s get to it!

Track 1 - Say You Love Me For Christmas by Les FradkinThis track is a succinct 2 minutes 47 seconds of really happy Christmas music that just makes the listener smile. The music is, well, pretty and Les has a good voice. It reminds me of that old movie with Jimmy Stewart about the angel who gets his wings. That is, even if you haven’t heard the song before, it feels familiar and will make you smile.

Track 2 - Jingle Jangle by Walter Rossi - This is a funky track that I really enjoy. Now in all honesty I am not really listening to his words. What stands out is that groovy bass which when combined with the sound of his voice and the backup singers is hypnotic. Add the wicked leads and the song goes from being enjoyable to outrageously cool! Walter, you rock!

Track 3 - Frosty the Snowman by The Forty NineteensI dig this song! This song, since I heard the single a couple of weeks ago has become a Christmas staple in the Grouch household. In a nutshell, Me First and the Gimmie Gimmies have absolutely nothing on The Forty Nineteens. Well done guys! (For the record when I first heard the single, I didn’t pick up on the line about the cops chasing Frosty and telling him STOP! - thank you for making me smile.)

Track 4 - Christmas Cards by Peter Unger this is a beautiful track. I feel like I have just heard a lost song by Simon & Garfunkel. I mean that as a complement. I sincerely admire a lot of what those two did and can honestly say I enjoyed this track just as much. Give it a listen, I had almost forgotten that mellow could be cool too.

Track 5 - Jackie Kringle & The Elves with Lets Have A Rockin Christmas - When I first read the name of this band I had to laugh. Then I saw the photo and recognized Gar Francis’ sardonic grin. Simply put, everything and I mean everything I have heard by this guy has put a smile on my face. This song is no exception! Check it out, feel the groove (and the humor) - then sit back and listen to some righteous harp.

(Remix) by Wayne Olivieri & DJ Chris

Ibe - simply put this is one very enthusiastic dance track. I find myself nodding my head as he shouts out ” I LOVE Christmas time!”. Christmas at this guy’s house must be one wild time of the year. His enthusiasm is infectious to say the least. Good job Wayne.

Track 7 - I Wonder Where You Are This Christmas by Bob ShawBob has succeeded in a blending of Bob Dylan and Bruce Spingsteen. This track is haunting. There is no question; the raw emotion that is laid bare in this song. This song can be summed up in one word: intense.

This track is quite a bit different from the last song. My first thoughts when I heard the start of the song was that Dennis was channeling his inner Steely Dan. The music has a jazz quality that is interesting. Dennis has his own sound though so the similarity stops there. All in all, Dennis sings well and the music keeps my attention (something that is often difficult to do).

Track 6 - I Love Christmas Time

Track 8 - Christmas Morning by Dennis Sy -

Track 9 - The Angel Gabriel by Deborah Henriksson - Get ready to be blown away. Firstly, this song is not really rock and roll. It does however massively rock! How can that be you wonder? Listen to the song. Deborah has a great voice! I find myself listening to this track over and over simply because of the things she can do vocally. WOW.

Track 10 - Jingle Jangle Jingle by Inches From SinMan, I want to see their show! I have not been this excited since I first heard Sly and the Family Stone. This guy is a monster player. The massively cool guitar in combination with the funk voice is just so cool. I dig it.

Track 11 - Have A Gigolo XMAS by .STEEL ft. Bubu

The Producer - Okay I can see after listening to this song that I really need to listen to more rap. This song is cool. I am so surprised that I like it, but I do. This guy just oozes cool and the nod to Louis Prima is appropriate.

Album Cover Design by Monique Grimme

Track 12 - Go Wish by Tammi T /Keith Hines ProductionThis is another extremely enthusiastic track with a message of hope. The vocals sound good as the listener is reminded that the true meaning of Christmas has nothing to do with a particular day on the calendar, but is something we should try to keep throughout the year.

Track 13 - Christmas In The Sun by YSANNE

ft. ZanZclan - This Reggae inspired track is just so pleasant the listener cannot help smiling. I am usually not a big fan of children’s vocals being spliced into a song, but in this song it works well. If you are feeling a bit down (or if you are in Sweden where it gets dark in the very early afternoon) the idea of Christmas in the Sun is extremely appealing.

Track 14 - 1,2,3 by Cousins STEEL & CortezChristmas in the tropics continues. I do not think I have ever heard a happier song. The abundance of joy projected by the band is sure to infuse you will a sense of lightheartedness. Thank you guys!

Track 15 - It’s Christmas Time by Sarantos - Move over Bing Crosby there is another crooner in town This song is a throwback to old school television Christmas specials. I can see the singer inviting the cameras into his home as he deftly moves from one number to the next.

Track 16 - Don’t Forget The Christ in Christmas by Bob Shaw - Get ready for a little Christmas hoedown. The thing is I dig this song. The music is good, but the lyrics and the way they are sung really make me smile. I laughed out loud when the singer simulated smacking a kid who wants presents. I can’t really decide if the entire song is tongue in cheek or not, but I do like it!

Track 17 - Sleigh Ride (Spoken Comedy Sketch) by Bob Shaw - This is Bob riffing. Bob, you are a funny guy! I have not laughed like this since I heard Peter Wolf tell the world he wanted a pizza win ‘No anchovies please!’

So folks, what is the bottom line? The bottom line is that this is a very enjoyable album! The tracks range from Punk Rock to simply beautiful vocals, from Rap to spoken word humor. There is something for almost everyone on this album.

The Grouch | Sweden

Fantastic! Is All I Can Say, Simply Fantastic!

Frosty The Snowman By The Forty Nineteens

Hej America!

Now that Halloween is over, it is time to turn our attention to Christmas. I cannot think of a better way to usher in the season than with a song, not just any song, but a Christmas carol. Well, it just so happens that my friends at Bongo Boy feel the same way and they have released a gem of a carol.

The track I am talking about is Frosty the Snowman as done by The Forty Nineteens. All I can say is well done guys, well done indeed. This has become my favorite song of the season. I have not enjoyed punk rock this much since the last Me First and the Gimmie Gimmies album.

For those of you who don’t know Me First, The Forty Nineteens are continuing the tradition of taking classic old songs that have become a part of the culture and amping them up a bit, well OK more than a bit, they blow the roof off. The thing is, once you adjust yourself to the massive volume and distortion, you will find that The Forty Nineteens are actually quite melodic. The lyrics remain the same as we have always heard them and the song is absolutely sung in tune. It is just that the music is soooooooo much more energetic and fun than the traditional version.

Even Punks like a little Yuletide joy.

Rock on guys! Your song brought a huge smile to my grouchy mug. When are you coming to Sweden??

The Grouch | Sweden

Artist Website: www.thefortynineteens.com

Record Label: www.bongoboyrecords.com

November 20th, 2016

International – Italy

I close this year with an interview to Zak Stevens, former Savatage, Circle to Circle and Trans Siberian Orchestra singer. I had the pleasure to work with him for my new Not Over Yet project and discovered more then a talented artist but a very special man so It was an honour to sit down and talk to him about his life, his history, dreams, passions etc… A good way to know him better and to let you know him wider!

- When was the first time you wanted to be a singer?

The first time I wanted to be a singer was at 9 years old, when I started playing drums. The first band I was in was a 3 piece rock band and we decided to play the talent school at my elementary school. We had a hard enough time finding 3 guys who could all play different instruments at that age, and therefore I decided to play the drums and sing from behind the drum kit.

- Your first show? Where were you, how did you feel?

My first show was the talent show in fifth grade. I had never felt as nervous as I did that day before we started our first song. I literally thought I was going to drop the drumsticks out of my hands because I was sweating so bad and had such bad stage fright. But a few measures into the song, everything was okay, and I gathered myself. I played 3 songs and we actually won the talent show. This was the first time I got the music bug.

- In your family was this a bad way to try to live or did you get support from them?

Luca Cerardi - Italy

I got a lot of support from my family… a lot more than any of my other friends who decided to go into music. Their parents thought that it was a waste of time or a crazy way to make a living. I feel lucky that I got some good support from my family.

- Your first memory of singing or playing an instrument?

I took guitar lessons when I was 8 years old, and I thought it was the worst thing that I had ever seen in my life LOL! To me, learning guitar was very difficult, but soon afterwards I was able to have a drum lesson and I found that drums came very naturally and were the right instrument for me.

- I read you are a drummer too. Did you ever think to just play drums, rather than vocals? Why drums?

Yes, when I first started playing drums, I thought that was going to be my primary instrument. I took on vocals just to fill a spot in our band, but we never found a better singer, so I was stuck. I find that to be a real advantage now obviously in my career.

- When you realized that you would play with Savatage what were your emotions?

I had very realistic emotions at the time that I found out I would play with Savatage. This was because I had always been a big fan of the band, and I had rehearsed and sang Savatage songs as part of my vocal training when I was younger.

- Did it change your life?

Yes, it absolutely changed my life because it gave me a start to a music career.

- The first show you played with them and your feelings about it?

The first show was in St. Petersburg, Florida at a small club that no longer exists. It was amazing because it was a local show in the hometown of the band and there were a lot of fans that were very interested in checking out the new vocalist for the band and how that would translate into a live performance.

- How is the experience with Savatage connected with TSO? What kind of experience is playing with TSO? There are many similarities between Savatage and TSO obviously because they come from the same musical personnel and influence.

- Reading your bio, you left Savatage for family reasons. I saw your two daughters in your Facebook profile, so how important is your family in your life? Music and family. Did they fit or was it a struggle with the role of father or husband or fiance?

Family is of the utmost importance in my life. Everything starts with family. I think it’s very important to have family support if you’re in the music business, and what you‘ll find is some people will support you and some people won‘t. I took time off early in my career when I had very young children to make sure that I provided for them and I was there to form the very important relationships and bonds that children require. When my kids got older, I was able to do everything I wanted to with my career.

- Once you started to play with Circle II Circle you kept working with your “old” world and then from second album with a brand new band. How would you define Circle II Circle?

Circle II Circle has always been an outlet for me to explore new music and music that I

feel is a great way to express myself outside of Savatage.

- The reunion in 2015 and the show at Wacken. What did that mean to you and to the members of Savatage? Which kind of relationship do you have with all of the members of Savatage and TSO?

I have always had a close relationship with all of the guys in Savatage. We always considered ourselves a family. The show meant so much to all the guys in Savatage to get back together to have that gigantic show with TSO at Wacken. It was like a family reunion.

performing for the fans which make everything possible. I like giving my all for them.

- Something that you have with you on tour that you can’t be without?

Water, chapstick, and some humor LOL!

- Any superstitious thing that you always do? Not really, I just have a pre show routine of vocal warmups and stretching.

- Are you the one who wants to stay healthy or that enjoys living a hard road life?

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a complete health nut LOL! If I hear one person cough, I am running for the hills.

- What do you really love in the studio and what don’t you like?

- Your current project and future ones?

Currently, I’m writing new music for my own solo project, and always open to lending a hand on other projects.

- Live or Studio?

They are both completely different and I love them both equally.

- Touring moments, how did you handle this and what you like about touring and what not?

Touring is very easy for me. I like the regimented schedule and approach to touring. The only thing I don’t like is when there are health problems or you start to feel exhausted or sick, but other than that I love

I pretty much control my entire atmosphere in the studio and I really don’t think there’s anything I don’t like about it. I feel the most comfortable and incredible when I’m in the studio and everything is working great. I am totally relaxed, and I don’t think there’s anything much better than that.

- When you come back what do you do first at home?

Just hanging out with my fiance Kate and going to see my kids.

- The thing you really missed on the road about home and vice versa? What do you miss about the road while at home?

I miss driving my brand new Dodge Challenger SRT8. That thing is mean! And awesome! I miss the camaraderie of the guys in the band while I’m at home and the daily

experience that we all grind through together.

- Business and music, how did this relation change during your years and how is the economic crisis impacting your experience in your view?

It has affected the way that labels support music. Everyone is very cautious in every aspect of the music business, from labels to promoters to bands, so we all have to continually look at creative ways to make music as great as it can be despite all of the economic fallout, while all of the time keeping the most important part of the music business in mind… THE FANS!

- Which difference in music do you see from the golden era of metal between 1980-1990 and now?

Almost every aspect of the music business has changed. There’s the economic difference, the change in interest from the fans’ perspective, and the fact that the type of music that people enjoyed then is not the same type of music that people enjoyed now. What is popular changes.

- Music drives business or business drives music?

These days, I think business definitely drives music.

- What do you think is the main component for a successful band? Skills, country, connections, great music?

Everything starts with great music.

- Is there still room for personal creativity or is it mostly about being commercial?

I think right now there is a huge amount of room for personal creativity. As a matter of fact, personal creativity is the only thing that sets bands apart from each other with the advent of accessibility with social media.

- What is it that you don’t like in the music business and what keeps fascinating you?

I don’t like almost everything in the music business LOL, except that creativity is still a driving factor. The astounding way that the music business can set all time lows is completely fascinating. It makes you wonder how music can even exist when there really isn’t much of a reward for it these days.

- To young people who want to play and tour now, what would you suggest to do and what would you suggest to avoid?

Do what your heart tells you to do and try to convey truthful art through your music.

- Which is your life turning point where you understood you would become a singer?

I started out singing, so I didn’t have much of a choice LOL!

- I saw you have a degree in psychology. How did it impact the role of music in those years? Was it hard to get the degree?

I think it provided me with some introspection and it made me aware of the

different ways people would perceive my music. It was difficult at times to achieve, but overall not really

- When you sing, what do you feel? Is it just a job or is it a different experience?

It’s actually an experience that I can’t easily define. I am conveying my emotion through my voice and the perfect expression comes from all of the years of training and experience that I have. So for that reason, it gets better and better with time.

- You played in Europe and all over the world. What would you bring from the world to America?

- Did you ever think to be a professional psychologist? And did it ever help you in the relations with people in music?

Yes, and I still think about it. It’s always something I can pursue. That door will always be open. Considering the vast differences in the mentality of people in the music business, it did not have that big of an impact in that area. It didn’t really give me an advantage in that part of the business because others controlled the business.

- What would you have done for a job if you weren’t a singer?

I probably would have gone into the healthcare field in some capacity.

- Three things that you really love to do at home.

Constantly torture my mother LOL, play tennis, go on long walks with my fiance, and watch a lot of football and Investigation Discovery.

- If you had to define music for you, what is it?

Music is the expression of emotion, attitude, and existence.

It is something that I already do. I bring all of my experiences from playing all over the world to America.

- About Italy, do you have any good memories or friends from here?

Yes, I have several great friends from Italy. Italy is a beautiful country that has so much to offer especially in the way of food and monumental historical importance. I think Italy has the best food in the world, especially dessert!

- Who were your influences when you were young and who do you still listen to during your daily life?

Ronnie Dio, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Whitesnake, Queensryche, Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne. I listen to them every day on my favorite satellite radio station. I still get energy from it every day to remember where I came from.

- What do you desire for yourself and your family in the future? If you were asked to have one dream, what would it be?

For everyone to dream and pursue their dreams and do what they want to do in life, and to hopefully have some success in doing

so. My dream would be to not have nightmares after watching Avengers movies, LOL!

- Best moment ever in your daily life and in music, the first thing that comes to mind?

Cranking up my car and going out cruising and Wacken 2015.

- Your best dish ever…

Mom’s southern Italian lasagna.

- Favorite band…

Skillet

- Favorite song…

Beyond the Realms of Death

- Do you listen to other music genres? Which and do they inspire you?

Yes. Outlaw country, smooth jazz, and new alternative. Yes, because the broaden my outlook on music in general.

- Who inspires you in life?

My fiance Kate and all of the music endeavors that we take on.

- What about some other interests of yours. Last movie watched? Last vacation taken?

The last movie I watched was Angry Birds. The last vacation I took was to the Caribbean on a cruise.

- You and your fans, what kind of connection do you feel?

I feel a very intimate and incredible connection to my fans.

- Do you stay in touch with some of them even after concerts?

Yes, absolutely. We stay in touch through social media, Facebook, Twitter.

- Did this job give you the chance to create new strong friendships or is it always only about business?

Music always results in new friendships and making new acquaintances and that’s part of the goal of music, to always gain new fans and get a new outlook and perspective.

- Who are the people in your life that you owe a lot to? The ones that supported you and helped you become who you are today?

Jon Oliva, Criss Oliva, Paul O’Neill and also my kids and my fiance. And I also thank my parents for being so supportive in the early parts of my career. They still support me to this day.

Venice 11.26.2016

Are you ready for shopping?

Christmas is coming and some people have already started to buy gifts; others, like me, will wait until the last minute. The stores are ready for Christmas, with all sorts of offers, discounts, promotional sales, etc. Surely each of us believes ourselves to be capable of properly evaluating the economic offers relating to particular items. But is this actually true? Let’s look at some examples. In general, when we evaluate the price of an item, our objectivity is lacking. One would think that we as consumers assign a value to an item by adding up the value of all of the object’s features, such as material, options, size, color, quality, etc. Actually, the assigned value is not obtained by simply summing the value of each feature. Rather, we assign a certain weight to each feature, and to each weight we assign an intrinsic value based on how important the feature is to us. In this way, some features will have a greater assigned weight than others; it is these features that push us to buy the item

Alessia Bastianelli –

Italy

How many of us have ever foregone purchasing a lower-priced item in favor of a very similar yet more expensive item, just because it had a certain feature that we could not live without? We’ve all done this at least once. Just think about all of the times we buy items only for their brand More often, the most important thing is not whether the price of an item fairly reflects its value, but rather, the impression that the price makes on us. If the price is very low, usually the quality of the item is perceived as low. But if we perceive the price as too high, we will think it is excessive, even if it is perfectly reasonable given the characteristics of the object for sale

Discounts are a separate topic of discussion. When we have to choose either an offer that gives 50% more of the product or one that gives a 50% discount on the product, usually we think there is no difference. In fact, in this situation, our brains have instinctively evaluated the two offers as being exactly the same. But this is not correct. As Derek Thompson of the Atlantic explained, “You walk into a Starbucks and see two deals for a cup of coffee. The first deal offers 33% extra coffee. The second takes 33% off the regular price. The deals appear to be equivalent, but in fact, a 33% discount is the same as a 50 percent increase in quantity. But, let’s say the standard coffee is $1 for 3 quarts ($0.33 per quart). The first deal gets you 4 quarts for $1 ($0.25 per quart) and the second gets you 3 quarts for 66 cents ($.22 per quart). According to Thompson, there are two broad reasons for why these kind of tricks

work. First, as consumers, we don’t know how much things should cost, so we rely on parts of our brains that aren’t strictly quantitative. Secondly, although humans spend in numbered dollars, we make decisions about how much to spend based on a mix of clues and emotional reasoning that amounts to innumeracy.

Further, during promotional sales, people do not understand the ultimate consequences of their purchasing behavior When objects are on sale at a discounted price, people often try to take advantage of the discount but they typically end up spending more than they would have otherwise This is called the spillover effect. It occurs when people who are buying items on sale also buy additional items that they don’t actually need. The spillover effect is explained by the fact that when we as consumers save money, we have the sensation that we have the sensation that our budget has increased as a result of our savings In addition, the appearance and brand of the store, the amount of people inside shopping, the perfume in the air, and the background music are all elements that influence consumers to make a purchase. They act on potential buyers by encouraging them to buy more.

Besides, our brains trick us into regarding a store or an item as if it were a person, provoking an emotional response in us So even when items sold in a store are not that expensive, people will choose to buy if they feel intense emotions. The secret to improving sales is to associate the item with a sensory power that can awaken in us memories, emotions and childhood associations. And now, happy shopping to everybody!

The End Of The World, Camelot Was No More

by © Guido Colacci 2016

Not all coups involve tanks and armies in the streets. Not all coups are proclaimed loudly and to all the people … 53 years ago today a coup d'etat took place in the United Staes under the guise of a “lone crazed gunman who murdered President John F. Kennedy on the street of Dallas. In the U.S.A. where history books teach us that there is always a peaceful transfer of power within the rules of a democratic society especially in America where the Constitution guarantees this. I should have been too young to be taking interest in that dark moment in our history, but I did. For some reason I did, to this day I can remember minute by minute all the events from the moment. There was a knock on the classroom door of my 3rd grade school room just as lunch was ending, and the teacher that was doing lunch duty, Sister Richard Lawrence, went to answer it and was called outside into the hallway. She came back into the room after a few moments, her eyes red and crying… she spoke quietly and told us to pray for President Kennedy as he had been shot at. She didn’t say anything else as she led us in prayer. As I was saying the words I knew by rote, in my mind I pictured President Kennedy hiding behind a fence and ducking as shots were fired at him and he fired back at them like some old western movie. For some reason I remember that we were released right after that and so many people outside the school were speaking in hushed tones and crying openly and some just grasped their child’s hand and walked quickly while some lingered and talked, their faces openly shocked and heads shaking. By the time we got home, my Nonna and I had heard things said along the way home, and I felt an unbearable rush to put the TV on … I did, and there it was, he was dead by then. I remember a jumble of words, interviews, photos and live coverage coming at me from every channel and trying as best I could to understand and to take it in… I was overwhelmed by the information and the way it was told, almost as if the people were trying to get out the words as quickly as they could or they would just explode.

The TV became a safe haven to me, like sitting in front of a fireplace, just hearing and listening and seeing and watching… I don’t remember my parents saying much at all, which seemed very odd to me.

The TV was a constant companion the whole weekend. And then as things seemed to calm down a little bit, right around noon or so suddenly right there in front of this 8 year old’s eyes, the man who police said killed President Kennedy was killed, shot, although while it was happening I didn’t

know what was happening until the announcer said “ Oswald has been shot.” And then from another room they took Oswald out on a gurney and put him quickly into a waiting ambulance, which made me wonder, why was there an ambulance parked there in the basement of the police station when they were supposed to be moving Oswald from one jail to another.

In hindsight, I guess that was the moment, that set me off on a study, actually it was more than just a study, it was a journey, a concentration, a cogitation, a questioning and analysis of american political history. In the years which have gone by since the coup in Dallas, I have not missed reading anything, book or magazine or documentary that has appeared on JFK.

In the following years the media, the political leaders, teachers, professors and history books have all urged and insisted that you need to “look forward, not backward” at some perceived wrongdoing, by whomever you believe did the crime, that it was a waste of time and wouldn’t change anything.” “There is no such thing in America, as an independent press, just as despite the illusion of academic freedom in America’s Universities, there actually is none. Public and private education is designed, financed and used to lead the students and people away from truth and to instill the adapted values, beliefs and attitudes that make it easier to maintain the “official story” to brainwash, control, distract us and continue to rule over us until we implode, hopefully. Even the “alternate” courses with “liberal open minded professors” still have to stay within the bounds of the course being “investigative or theoretic, hypothetical conjecture.” They cannot teach alternative history no matter how much fact and truth there is to it or it will cost these brave teachers and professors their jobs or worse. One hunderd percent of the mass media and news is still telling us in well choreographed lockstep that the JFK Assassination happened as The Warren Commission said, that Oswald assassinated JFK and was a “lone-nut” communist assassin. Of course, surveys now show that 60-80% of the American People do not believe this at

all. The simple minded people who have swallowed the hook, line and sinker of the story always say with conviction, that you wouldn’t be able to keep people quiet if there were so many involved. I will only mention the extraordinary number of witnesses and people connected to the coup that have died, were killed or met their end under suspicious circumstances. I read in the book, Hit List by Richard Belzer, that the odds for so many people dying who were associated or connected to a singular event like the coup in the first ten (10) years are completely incalculable in reality.

To not admit, divert, distract and create a boogeyman or common enemy, has been one of the cornerstones of American political culture, its a characteristic tenet of America to not admit, to whitewash, rewrite, and outright lie and deny. America needs consensus instead of conflict. It is has been the american way since this nation was founded on genocide, bloodshed and outright theft and violence. So the truth is that the coup in 1963 was a complete success. The ironic part that came to me later in my life was that they actually weren’t telling me to “look forward” they were telling me to look away, to not look at all or at the very least to look away. One hundered years or two hundred years from now, no matter what truths emerge from the shadows of lies, our history of President Kennedy’s death will remain the same. The full story of that day in November 1963 will never be known; sadly, what should have been done, wasn’t done, and what could still be done is not being done.

NOTE: The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Steel Notes Magazine.

Viva Fidel, Viva la Revolución, Viva Cuba, Hasta la Victoria Siempre.

By © Guido Colacci 2016

Another one of my great heroes, the Commander In Chief, Revolutionary Icon and former president of Cuba Fidel Castro, died late last night in Havana at the age of 90.

All honor to Cuba and the Cuban people there and what great people the Cubans are and what a Great leader Mr Fidel Castro was. He led his country in a very courageous and dignified way despite the intimidation, imposed economic starvation and death attempts by the USA government. He defined himself at home with his staunch belief that true socialism benefitted all people and abroad with his direct and often taunting defiance of Washington. In the end, he essentially won the political staring game. He never once gave in to the U.S. despite over 600+ assassination attempts on his life by the CIA , Mafia and exiled disgruntled Cubans, and 50+ years of an economic embargo by the United States and its allies that left Cuba always struggling economically especially after the fall of Russia. And in 1961, the island nation fended off a CIA-backed invasion known as the Bay of Pigs. Also, rejected by President John Kennedy was the CIA Operation Northwoods, which was to disguise an American jet as a Cuban jet and have it attack a real American passenger airliner killing all the passengers and thus causing outrage and backlash against Cuba from everyone in the United States as in 9/11.

For many like me, he was a champion of the poor who along with Ernesto "Che" Guevara made violent revolution a romanticized ideal, a symbol of liberation who overthrew a dictator and brought free education and health care to the masses. Hundreds of thousands of Cubans began fleeing north almost immediately after Castro's 1959 revolution as he started turning exuberantly capitalist Cuba into a socialist state.

NOTE: The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Steel Notes Magazine.

The ONLY reason why the US hates Fidel is because he managed to throw them out of Cuba along with their parasitic capitalistic stranglehold and restore independence the distribution of wealth to all Cuban people, and follow an independent path not dictated by Washington. If truth be told the US doesn't give a rat’s ass about human rights or anything like that despite their hypocritical rhetoric. Cuba's human rights are better than many nations out there, including the United States, despite the vile propaganda the U.S. media and its disgruntled exiled Miami U.S. “PALS”, (personal ass lickers) Cubans have spread over the last 50 years. Most Cubans are fine.

They don't want a rotted system of capitalism.

Because of Cuba not allowing US corporations in Cuba, Cuba has the most pristine areas and water on this planet. Most visitors to Cuba, who tell the truth, are astonished how cuban society is one of social values and happiness. So many people would love to migrate to Cuba from western countries except the USA, they are fully brainwashed, except for myself as if I could pick one place in the world I would love to live it would be in Cuba, despite what a “horrible” country it must be, no McDonalds, no Pizza Hut, no Fox news, little or no Hollywood propaganda junk movies, only free great heath care, free education, lowest infant mortality rate in the hemisphere, solidarity based vehicle share system to make up for shortage of public transport, and a life that is lived for the pleasure not for barely surviving. Great country, great people.

His death triggered both mourning and celebration. Mourners and supporters grieved over the Revolutionary who was the ONLY man and country to stand by its socialistic principles and led the way for other countries to overcome their oppression and imperialistic yolk placed on them by the hell and lies of democratic government and capitalistic economic systems.

Meanwhile, revelers spilled into the streets of Miami, the center of the Cuban exile community. Thousands of people like little brats and cranky children, they popped champagne, clanged pots and pans, singing and dancing, cheered and waved the Cuban flag in crazy gestures, whooping it up in jubilation, honking car horns and loud music from car radios echoed out disrupting the night, and fireworks lit up the putrid Florida night sky. The exiles who fled with their wealth and no longer protected by the dictator after Castro took power, Cubans fled the island to Miami, Tampa and other Florida cities. They were supporters and beneficiaries of the Batista dictatorship, rich families with huge swaths of property in Cuba, gained by criminal endeavors and favors under Batis-

ta, had their property appropriated by the government for everyone’s benefit under Fidel and Che. Things went sour also when these same people realized that the rebels through the criminal courts were going to send officials, supporters and contributors of the old regime to the firing-squad wall. And of course Castro was outraged at the resulting U.S. criticism, calling it "the vilest, most criminal and most unjust hypocrisy that has been launched against any people. And rightly so, it was a tone of righteous indignation, Castro would return to time and again over the decades.

As in life, Castro was deeply divisive in death. Older Cubans who remember brutal times under Batista tend to emphasize the revolution’s accomplishments. While those who supported Batista, cry for a way of life that they stole and was soon to be taken away from them for the greater good of ALL the Cuban people.

Castro was the last remaining leader from the group of old school leaders including Mao, Salvador Allende, Hugo Chavez, Nelson Mandela, Nikita Khrushchev and Leonid Brezhnev.

Mexico's president Enrique Peña Nieto called Castro a friend of Mexico, who had promoted bilateral relationships based on "respect, dialogue and solidarity."

Pakistani politician, Imran Khan hailed Castro as "an iconic revolutionary leader" who stood against the US.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "one of the most iconic personalities of the 20th century, India mourns the loss of a great friend." We need to truly recall that Cuba at one time, under Batista, was almost turned into the first Mafia nation state until Castro took control and kicked the Mafia and its American casino building friends out. Beware that the same evil group does not try to take the Island over again with the help of the Americans. The current President Elect of the United States has much experience in running Casinos and Hotels and is a capitalistic criminal himself of epic proportions.

And let’s NEVER forget that when the US was supporting the racist apartheid government of South Africa's invasion of Angola to overthrow the revolution that defeated the Portuguese imperialists, Cuba sent thousands of their brothers and sisters to help the people of Angola defend their independence.

Thirteen years later the South African racist army with its US ally were defeated and the peoples revolution in Angola was saved.

Of Cuba's role in Angola, Nelson Mandela declared in a speech on July 26, 1991:

"The Cuban people hold a special place in the hearts of the people of Africa. The Cuban internationalists have made a contribution to African independence, freedom and justice unparalleled for its principled and selfless character - We in Africa are used to being victims of countries wanting to carve up our territory or subvert our

sovereignty. It is unparalleled in African history to have another people rise to the defense of one of us - The defeat of the apartheid army and Cuito Cuanavale was an inspiration to the struggling people in South Africa!”

Cuba is now working with the Syrian army as they did in South Africa and let’s hope that they have the same success there.

Castro and Cuba even offered us help in the clusterfuck that Bush made out of Hurricane Katrina. Of course we refused. America doesn’t need anyone’s help to fix what we fuck up. So there. LOL.

And MOST IMPORTANTLY, let’s not forget for even ONE SECOND, that all those idiots celebrating in Florida voted for Trump as a block, a Cuban block, to be president. Mull that over for a moment and let it sink in. Keep in mind, Fidel Castro was no “thug” he was an educated man, an attorney who studied law at The University of Havana.

He has been a guiding light for many all over the world. Even after his death, he will remain so. The American Indians at Standing Rock could use his inspiration now after all the horror they have endured. Hopefully the proud Indians will remember Fidel more after his death. He stood against all pressures of the USA, economic, cultural and military. Let him be their inspiration and example.

People often ask me, why I admire Castro and and Che so much. The main reason is that I believe both Fidel and Che had the best interest of the people in mind that drove them to do what they did. I also firmly believe neither one was a politician but humanitarians who were thrust into the role of politician, unlike the insectoids, reptiles and scum that are career politicians and multi millionaires, that are selected as our presidents, who truly don’t give a rat’s ass for any person as much as they care about the economic and corporate bottom lines.

Soon after the revolution, Castro set his eye outside the island.

"How much America and the peoples of our hemisphere need a revolution like the one that has taken place in Cuba!" he said days after his triumph. "How much it needs for the millionaires who have become rich by stealing the people's money to lose everything they have stolen!" he added. "How much America needs for the war criminals in the countries of our hemisphere all to be shot to death.”

I salute you, Presidente Fidel Castro. Your words inspire and empower me. Bless you Fidel and Bless you Che. You have changed my life and heart for the better. May you finally Rest In Peace. You certainly deserve it. “Condemn me. It is of no importance. History will absolve me.” — Castro in 1953, when the young lawyer was defending himself at trial for his nearsuicidal assault on the Moncada military barracks in Santiago de Cuba. “A revolution is not a bed of roses. A revolution is a struggle between the future and the past.” — Castro in 1959.

"One of the greatest benefits of the revolution is that even our prostitutes are college graduates." - Castro to director Oliver Stone in 2003 documentary.

Chapter 5: Varanasi to Goa Journey to India Rex

Maurice Oppenheimer

Leaving Varanasi I spent the next few days on the train. Sleeping on my wooden plank, reading, writing, smoking hash and looking out the window as India rolled by.

Winter was coming, and I was heading south on my journey to new territory and warmer climes. My sights were set on the Malabar coast, namely Cochin, Trivandrum and Kovalam Beach. After a night in Madras, I spent another 30 hours on the train to Mangalore, where I killed five hours before catching a train down to Calicut. There I spent the night before catching another train further down the coast to Cochin.

I stepped off the train in Cochin at midnight and into a thundering tropical storm. With my pack on my back, I was skirting deep puddles and wading waist deep through others, in search of cheap accommodation. My spirits were high, and singing in the Malabar rain, I just took things as they came. I was feeling easy about things like not knowing where I was going to sleep that night.

I was enthralled with India. Here I was in a place where one could easily say I didn’t belong, culturally, ethnically, but where I soaked up a feeling of serenity. It wasn’t that my surroundings were peaceful. No matter where I went in India, and no matter how jubilant or joyful the environment, there was always life’s struggle and much suffering, from poverty, but also from petty cruelty and human injustice, on display.

Maybe it was that I was adrift, detached from any semblance of what would have been considered normal life back in my homeland and any responsibility or expectation I would have felt back home. Walking through this primitive world, among people living on a simple level of bare existence, I felt a sense of comfort with my own imperfect self.

Calicut and Cochin, both facing the Arabian Sea along the Malabar Coast in the State of Kerala, were important ports for the ancient spice trade. They offered a free and secure port for Jews, Arabs, Phoenicians and Chinese merchants, who traded for spices like black pepper and cardamom beginning about 2,000 years ago. Europeans discovered the trade routes to the Malabar Coast in the 1500s.

Leaving the hotel to wander on my first morning I was taken by how modern Cochin seemed compared to the places I’d been living in India. Although plenty of primitive India was still apparent, there were proper streets lined with shops, all with glass, showroom style windows. I was used to people squatting in the street with their goods laid out on the ground or propped on a shelf stuck in beneath someone’s windowsill.

One of the first things I wanted to do was get some Kerala grass. I don’t ever remember anyone smoking marijuana in the North, just hash, or charras, as it is called, but weed is prevalent in the South, and Kerala grass is famous.

It didn’t take me long wandering around down by the docks and the network of canals known as the Cochin backwaters, before I found a friendly young Indian who could help me get a kilo of ganja for about 200 rupees, which was then about $20.

The next item on my agenda was a visa extension. At that time an American could get a three-month visa and then extend it for three months. I found out that I had to make an application for that with the Police Commissioner, which I planned to do the next day. But first, I found a tailor to make a shirt and pants for me out of the raw silk I had purchased in Varanasi.

I had him make a sort of a shirt-jacket, which buttoned up the front and was collarless. The pants had a drawstring waist and were slit up from the ankle with button and loop closures. The latter was to make it easy to roll them up when I would have to wade through puddles or navigate muddy streets.

I had sold or traded almost all of my clothes for hash when I’d first arrived in Kashmir. My wardrobe now, in addition to the raw silk clothes I just had made, was mostly local garb, such as kurta-pajamas, lungis, other loose cotton pants and shirts. I didn’t have many clothes. I had no need for them in India, and I had to keep and carry everything in the Tibetan backpack I had bought in McLeod Ganj.

I had kept one pair of decent khaki pants and, of all things, a cowboy shirt with pearl snaps, which was cotton polyester and looked pressed without having to be ironed. I called those my embassy clothes, since they were reserved for the times I had to face officials and not appear as a drug-addled hippie traveler.

So the next day I put on my embassy clothes and went to fill out an application and leave my passport with the Police Commissioner. When I came back to the hotel, the manager told me the police had been in my room. They were checking me out because I’d applied for the visa extension.

Oh shit, I thought as I walked up to my room since I had that kilo of grass in the top of my backpack, which was on the floor beside the bed and was just about the only thing in the room. What else would they look at? The room seemed untouched; I walked over to the backpack and looked inside. The grass was still there. A few days later my visa extension was approved, no problem.

I was born Jewish and consider myself Jewish, but I’m not religious in any way. I’m not an atheist or agnostic, but I certainly don’t have a fixed conception of whatever power produced or governs this Universe. There were times, especially on LSD and other psychedelic drugs, when I’ve had profound spiritual experiences, and there have been times that I’ve been captivated, to an extent, by varying mystical beliefs. Yet I am as leery of organized spirituality as I am of organized religion. For the sake of honesty, however, I must confess that due to the fact that at this writing I’ve been sober for more than 18 years, I can now comfortably say that although I don’t believe in God, because if I did my mind would talk me out of it, I have experienced God by following certain disciplines that have let me experience a different life.

Enough about that, since the point here being nothing more than being Jewish and growing up as a minority in

America, at a time when I personally encountered prejudice and hatred, I have always been fascinated to find Jews in other, often strange parts of the world. Hence, when I heard about Jew Town in Kerala I had to go and have a look.

Jews first arrived in Kerala the after the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE, and over time the area became home to a rather large and diverse Jewish community. They spoke a dialect called Judeo-Malayalam, Malayalam being the native tongue of Kerala. Another group of Jews emigrated from European countries such as Holland and Spain in the 18th Century, bringing the Ladino language and Sephardic customs.

Most of the Jews have left, mainly for Israel, but Jew Town, as it is called, remains. The only remaining synagogue that is still an active house of prayer is the beautiful Paradesi Synagogue.

Built on land given by Rama Varma, the Raja of Kochi, in 1567, it contains many beautiful antiques including a floor of individually unique handmade blue and white willow-patterned porcelain Chinese tiles. There is also a rug, which was a gift from Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia.

India might be the only country in the world that has not only welcomed Jews for thousands of years, but also where they have never been subjected to anti-Semitism from their fellow Indians.

From Cochin I made my way down to Trivandrum and further down to the Kovalam Beach. Located at the very bottom of India, the beach is beautiful. I got a room in a little hotel on the beach for about a dollar.

Back then Trivandrum was slow and easy; I spent time on the beach and enjoyed South Indian meals with masala dosa, sambhar and coconut chutney, other curries, accompaniments and rice served on a banana leaf.

Walking down the beach one evening I was approached by a young man who asked if I wanted a lobster dinner. He showed me the shellfish, which I think were actually a type of crayfish, and we agreed on a price, five rupees, which was about 60 cents.

I sat on the beach while he built a fire, boiled the lobster, made rice and other accompaniments. He then laid out a cloth on the beach, some dishes, and served me. It was delicious.

Not long after I had arrived in Cochin I started to get sick. In Trivandrum my ear started hurting. It kept getting worse, and in Kovalam I developed a high fever, the whole side of my face swelled up and my ear and jaw hurt really bad. I went to see a doctor. He said I had a bad ear infection that could become meningitis. He gave me an injection with a really long needle that hurt quite a bit. When I asked him what that was for, he smiled, shook his head in that distinct Indian way, and said, “It is for pain.”

“Well, it worked,” I smiled back, rubbing my arm. He also gave me some antibiotics and told me to keep the ear dry for six months. I thanked him and left as a rat scampered out of the corner of the waiting room.

My next stop was Goa.

Goa was different from the rest of India. It was a Portuguese colony until 1961, and the Catholic influence, including conversion, had an effect on Goa quite different from the Church of England’s more benign presence in

the rest of the country.

When I arrived in Goa’s capital, Panjim, I met a man at the station who offered me a room in Calangute Beach. I was always wary of touts offering rooms, or anything else, but I trusted this guy enough to at least go and see. The room was upstairs in a large house. It was a short walk to the beach and the Bella Vista Restaurant, for 10 rupees, less than a dollar back then.

The bathroom was off a courtyard downstairs. There was no running water. The well in the courtyard was deep and good, and to take a shower I’d fill a bucket at the well, pour it into a cistern, get under it and open the valve. It worked just fine.

Goa has a beautiful coastline, and the white sand beach at Calangute was long and wide.

When I was there, in 1979 – 80, it was a hippie haven. Europeans would come en masse during the winter months. Drugs were freely available. The broad beaches were the scene of nudity, drug taking, and every full moon and for Christmas and New Years Eve there would be huge all-night raves at Anjuna Beach.

Rock bands would come over from Europe. I heard Ian Dury’s “Sex, Drugs and Rock & Roll” so much it became a soundtrack. A bandstand would be set up on the beach, with a dance floor. Indians would set up chai and food stalls scattered along the beach, which was speckled by what looked like thousands of candles flickering in the sand. Each candle surrounded by groups of travelers, you’d hear the cry, “Boom Shankar,” and chillums would swirl around what seemed like a million circles.

In the morning the sun would rise on a gypsy encampment. Blankets, sarongs, lungis and mats spread on the beach. Everywhere glitter and satiny sparkle, as sunrise chillums are passed around candles melted into the sand and still burning against the new sunlight. People dance, some strip and run into the sea, others turn over in their sleep.

One party we had was at Aronbol, where there was a lake close to the sea. Some of the tribe had set up an elaborate structure where they were living. We could swim in the lake, and the ocean. The palm trees and sand made it look like an oasis in an Arabian nights tale.

Often when I think of Goa from that period I think of the term Woodstock Nation realized. In many ways that’s how it seemed. People dressed in their fantasy of hippie nation, with loose fitting, colorful Indian cottons, with turbans and headscarves, bare feet and jewelry. There was all the dope you could want or need, good cheap food and accommodation. As I said, nudity, although frowned upon by the Indian authorities, was commonplace.

I had several encounters and liaisons in Goa, including Wendy the Acid Queen. Wendy would come over every year from London, with plenty of psychedelics, and have a house in Goa. We had a brief but memorable liaison. Roger Moore and a film crew were there making a film, “The Sea Wolves,” and we partied at Wendy’s house.

I forget the names of the three Americans I met there. A couple of them landed roles as extras in the film. There were travelers/tourists. They were the only Americans I remember meeting in two years of travel in India.

I liked the American guys, but there was a strange distance and closeness between us. To me, they seemed just

too straight, too establishment. Of course my reasoning for this was often ridiculous. I remember that they would brush their teeth every night before going to bed. I thought this was somehow not cool. Like they were still doing the bidding of their parents, otherwise why would you brush your teeth at night as well as in the morning? Don’t ask me what I was thinking. I brushed my teeth, but only in the morning. Like I said, I was nuts and this just confirms it. Now I often brush my teeth three times a day and floss religiously.

This straightness, squareness or ordinariness was evident in other ways, too, and that was the cause of the distance between us. The closeness was the exact opposite. As cool as I was, or thought I was, and I was a totally irresponsible drug addict, a lot of the other travelers, from other countries, were just too cool or trying to be too cool. They didn’t talk, not about themselves, their families, their thoughts, dreams, nothing. These uncool Americans were real.

When I arrived in Goa I had what was left of that kilo of grass that I’d bought down in Kerala. But I didn’t really like it that much. The hash available in Goa was much better. There was a young Indian woman in Goa that used to make cakes and sell them for a few rupees, and I had her bake up some of the grass, which was some pretty potent pastry. I decided to sell the remainder of the grass to a French hippie and his girlfriend who wanted it.

After the transaction was complete he asked me if I was really Abbie Hoffman. I think it was a combination of the scars from my motorcycle accident being fresher and more obvious then they are now, plus the fact that I did resemble Hoffman somewhat, and that he was on the run from the law and had supposedly had plastic surgery. I assured my French friends that I wasn’t, but I don’t think they believed me. They may still be telling the story of how they bought marijuana from Abbie Hoffman in India.

I remember Scottish Steve and his girlfriend, Glenda. The Indian police would sometimes come to the beach and hassle people who were sunbathing nude. One time they started warning Steve to put on his clothes or they would arrest him.

He started in on them, saying, in his thick Scottish accent, “Oh no, the shame of it, I can’t take it; I’m going to kill myself; I’ll drown myself.”

And with that outburst Steve, who was more than six-feet tall, ran to the shoreline, fell to his knees, and placed his nose and mouth in the few inches of water lapping the shore, all the time screaming, “This is it, I can’t stand the shame!”

The craziest part was the police reaction. They grabbed him gently by the shoulders, trying to lift his face out of the water, saying, “Oh no, sahib, please don’t be doing such a thing,” and basically pampering Steve, who agreed to forgo suicide if they would just leave him alone.

While the Indian police would sometimes hassle us for nudity, the Indian tourist industry would take middleclass Indian gentlemen down to gawk. On one such occasion there were a couple of Indian men enjoying the view when one of the tribe, a very attractive and also muscular German girl, got up from the sand, completely naked, walked over to the Indian men, picked one of them up and lifted him above her head like a barbell. She then walked over to the shoreline and tossed him into the sea. His extreme embarrassment was both painful and hilarious to watch.

There was really a community at the beach. We came from all over the world, England, Scotland, Ireland, Ger-

many, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Holland, France, Belgium, Brazil, and more. When we weren’t partying, or lying in the sun, everyone in our community on Calangute Beach would gather at the Bella Vista restaurant. The Bella Vista was right on the beach. There were a few tables inside, but most of us could always be found surrounding the tables out on the large verandah in front, eating drinking, smoking dope, listening to music and just hanging out.

I spent long periods of time largely cut off from world events, but word went around that the Russians had invaded Afghanistan on December 25, 1979, and we had celebrated a New Years Eve/End of the World party to usher in 1980.

The world didn’t end, and on January 1, there were candles dancing against the sunrise as we passed chillums around our circle of friends.

It’s strange to think how this disparate group of people from every corner of the world, some professionals, such as doctors and accountants, taking a few weeks to a month to escape the ordinary, others hippie travelers, who had been making there way throughout parts of Asia for years, dope dealers, thieves, musicians, movie stars and vagabond wanderers, all shared for a brief moment a glimpse of the Age of Aquarius.

I had been in Goa for a couple of months, but as February approached I had to begin my journey out of India. My last visa extension was going to soon expire, and I had to leave the country for six months before I could reenter. My vague plan was to catch the steamer that sailed up the Arabian Sea to Bombay, and get a room in a hotel recommended to me by a fellow traveler, appropriately or ironically called The Rex. I’d then take a train across the breadth of India to Calcutta, from where I would make my way over to Thailand

After smoking a lot of hash and chasing the dragon with Steve and Glenda, I spent my last night in Goa at Wendy’s. All I remember of that night is her removing my lungi, stepping back and looking me up and down, and saying, “I’m going to make you scream.”

The next morning I floated my way back to my room, gathered my belongings up into my pack, and took off for the docks to catch the steamer to Bombay.

GLVMA AntiBullying Concert

By Alexxis Steele

I had the pleasure of attending the annual Anti-Bullying Concert , produced by Gloria Domina, and Thirteen Butterlies Productions on October 24th at The Allentown Masonic Temple.

The proceeds for this event benefits the Easton Area Community Center and The Pacer Organization. Every year volunteers donate their time to raise money and awareness for this worthy cause.

The guest hosts for this year’s event, were Tanya Tyler and Kirk Hittinger. Many local lehigh valley talent, came out to donate their performances and show their support. The show was a combination of acoustic and electric performances, spoken word, mime, sign language and dance.

This year’s lineup included by order of appearance:

Craig Thatcher

Samantha Englehardt

School Of Rock

Wendy Smale Minerva

The Lesson Center

Jordan White

Friar’s Point Band

Ecdc Dance Troup

Linda Vega

We look forward to attending this worthy cause again next year!