Notes On A Napkin
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With trailer in tow, friend Harry drove us up to the Long Beach Peninsula for the first time this year, arriving amid gorgeous sunny weather. The weeds were nearly as tall as Harry as we spent most of the weekend whacking weeds & grass. (Thank you Harry!) We did manage to take in a movie, the new Star Trek, a real treat; and drove down to the beach for a couple of stunning sunsets.
My Lithuanian sister Geraldine joined me at the PPAA for a marvelous benefit concert for Sneakin’ Out recently. Our cover band this month Level 2 played, as well as Myron Leroy & the Faithful Few & of course an amazing performance of Sneakin’ Out. The proceeds will help the trio with expenses on their east coast tour with Pink Martini, beginning at Carnegie Hall. Myron stopped at our table briefly to proudly say he predicted years ago that Sneakin’ Out would indeed someday play Carnegie Hall! Myron’s band opened the show w/many hits from days gone by, such as Pink Cadillac, Fever, Ain’t No Sunshine, Green River & Feelin’ Alright. Level 2 followed with their trademark harmony & Ron Cockerham’s unique vocals on tunes like Shame on You, Round & Round We Go and the recent original We Can Change the World. Read all about this group in KT’s cover article. When I heard this band last year, I knew it was destined for a PE cover! Sneakin’ Out, an act I was told I must see by a number of folks, was definitely unlike anything I had heard before. The most unusual aspect of this trio was the percussion contraption set up in the middle of the stage that consisted of drums, vibes, bongos, cymbals, gongs, triangles, chimes, multiple noisemakers and, believe it or not, a typewriter! The other two musicians, on mandolin (played like a rock guitar!) and deep acoustic bass, both performed with amazing ability. The whole show was instrumental, with original arrangements of tunes made popular by The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Tom Petty, Rolling Stones and more! A truly awesome show! (This band definitely should have appeared on the cover of PE&D by now!)
My right-hand assistant KT & I trekked out to Gresham one Wednesday evening for the jam led by multi-talented musician Cactus Davis at the Big Apple Pizzeria on Kane Rd, just north of Division. KT lugged her baritone sax along for a chance to play her favorite instrument. Many prominent musicians were on hand including drummer & staffer Greg Raschio; guitarist Ron Ruedi & fellow Hurricane Johnny Pomar (bass); guitarist Randy Guess; keyboardist Pete Ford & several others. Whether you are a musician or a music fan, be sure to visit the Big Apple soon for great tunes and pizza!
Since I now sport eyeglasses & can travel outside familiar territory, I’m heading across the river more often these days. Recently, staffer/friend Lauree joined me for a delicious meal of crab cakes & salmon at none other than the famous Crab Bowl, where noted guitarist Billy Hagen now performs regularly. See listings & watch for more next issue. Our ultimate destination this night was the New Phoenix Lounge on Canyon Rd. to hear the fabulous Lucy Hammond Band. Since appearing on the cover last month, Lucy has hired a couple of new players; guitarist Phil Friscia and keyboardist Zach Marsh, who replaces Jeff McCombs. Our hearts & prayers go out to Jeff, who is suffering from cancer & can no longer perform. We miss you Jeff! Young Zach (17) is undoubtedly destined for the national, if not world-wide, stage after attending Cornish College of Music in Seattle (He was also accepted at Berkley). He’s an awesome player & Lucy feels blessed to have him at least for the summer months. Be sure to visit the New Phoenix Fridays for their battle of bands with finals July 10. I haven’t tried the food there yet, but the drinks and dance floor are impressive. See article and ad this issue for more.
Judging from some of the bands I’ve heard recently, country music is definitely back in vogue. From the Thomas Brothers at Duke’s and Lock, Stock & Barrel at the New Copper Penny, to Pete Ford & Texas Hold ‘em at the new Whiskey City Grill, you can read all about these top-notch acts this issue. By the way, the Copper Penney officially has “gone country,” as evidenced by their grand opening featuring a set by American Idol’s Josh Gracin, complete w/outdoor spotlights, c/w dancers, prizes awarded by KUPL Radio & Coors Light. Also new to the scene is the brand new Whiskey City Grill on SE 112th & Powell...it still “smells” new! Geraldine & I stopped in to hear charming guitarist/vocalist Raeann Phillips perform cuts from her new CD Destination Love, followed by a rousing set by Pete Ford’s band. Watch for hot Coyote Creek next time.
Just a note to all you Pete Petersen & the Porkpie Septet fans: We couldn’t get Pete’s article in this issue because of time & space constraints, so stay tuned next issue. Meanwhile, don’t miss Pete’s upcoming show at Tony Starlight’s (NE 37th & Sandy) June 12, 8 pm, featuring the “Updated American Songbook,” instantly recognizable songs from the TV generation.
‘Til next time, pray for peace & prosperity........................Bonnie Carter, ed.