Dynamic vocalist Lucy Hammond rejoins
music scene, shakes rafters with hot band

By Steve Rodin

Lucy Hammond

Lucy Hammond
Photo by Steve Hanning

In the early '80s, Portland was alive with successful music venues, upcoming bands and the nation's hottest radio station KGON. Touring bands like George Thoroughgood often were on the bill at The Euphoria Tavern.

On one night, the Cobalt Blues band took the stage to open a three band line-up. With a young Lucy Hammond on lead vocals, the group took the Euphoria by storm. They blew away the crowd, received encore after encore. Read More where is Lucy Hammond playing ?

Carrie Cunningham
Bright, country singer/writer winds road to stardom

By Brad Morley

Carrie Cunningham

Carrie Cunningham (center) and NSAI Training Workshop Grads

The Northwest is home to a rising star; Carrie Cunningham is a bright young country singer/songwriter working her way though the winding road to stardom. She plays the Portland music scene, as well as consistent efforts in Nashville. Signed to Divulge Records, she is packaged well with a new CD available and a glossy press kit Read More

where is Carrie Cunningham ?

Signatures Quartet
Vocal group shines in birthday tribute to Streisand

By KT

Tony Starlight's Supper Club and Lounge, located at 3728 N.E. Sandy Blvd., is a primo nightclub with the best in live music. When seated inside, you experience the feel of a private club with a class AAA stage show, unparalleled service, a significant wine list and fine food.

signatures

Signatures: Clockwise from left: Kat, Stephanie, Barbara, Karla

A recent Friday evening featured a birthday tribute to Barbra Streisand by the Signatures Quartet, backed by pianist/musical director Bo Ayars and the house rhythm section. This writer thoroughly enjoyed the cool-jazz harmonies and solo work from the four ladies, presenting tunes such as One Less Bell To Answer and musical skits built on the tunes You Don't Bring Me Flowers and Never Let Him Go. The guest appearance by an affectionate spoof of early Neil Diamond as hero/anti-hero added enhanced meaning to the exercise, as the ladies sang their hearts out. Read More

where are The Signatures playing ?

At KJ's
BlueJayz boast 4 decades of musical experience

By Lucy Hammond

The BlueJayz

The BlueJayz

To call the BlueJayz experienced players would be an understatement! With four decades of musical experience between them, these seasoned players combine for a solid R&B experience.

Front man, singer and keyboardist Joe Buche has played and performed since the tender age of 14. Buche counts Delbert McClinton as one of his major influences. Buche handles the majority of the vocals but the BlueJayz also feature Jay Bradshaw and "Julio" Salisbury adding to the vocal presence. Read More where are The BlueJayz playing ?

Salem Film Festival and the new Salem Cinema

By Ardis Hedrick

Salem Cinema: Marlyn Mason and Loretta Miles

Salem Cinema: Marlyn Mason and Loretta Miles

The grand opening of the new Salem Cinema and opening night of the 4th Annual Salem Film Festival on Friday, April 17, lit up the corner of Broadway and Market Streets N.E. with a touch of Hollywood's glamour and hype. Theater owner and festival coordinator Loretta Miles presented the new arthouse theater and independent film showcase as a brilliant gift to the Cherry City, rolling out the red carpet and cutting the ceremonial ribbon, a swatch of 35mm film taking the place of the ribbon. Salem Mayor Janet Taylor spoke prior to the ribbon cutting, bestowing her seal of approval to this ambitious project.

Inside and out, the new venue resembles a modern chrome and glass-encased birthday cake garnished with jewel-toned glossy painted walls, gold-tinged icing and frosted etched glass windows, all decorated in a classic old world theater style. The best of the old and new combine here to bring to Salem a classy, welcoming venue that will serve the city’s arts community for many years to come. Outside, a huge black and white illuminated sign proclaims "Broadway"-inspiration and location all at once. Over the snack bar, a massive brushed-silver clock marks time in classic Roman numerals. Movie posters grace the shiny black and gold walls, publicizing offerings from the 10-day film festival. Gorgeous crimson silk and crystal-laden chandeliers dangle from the high ceiling and illuminate the upper walls, decorated tastefully with gold and silver painted Art Deco motifs, all designed, hand-picked and executed by the talented Ms. Miles. It's a glorious addition to the city! Read More