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Monday, March 31, 2008

Photos - Steven Gregory, 3.29.08, Peach's Grill, Yellow Springs, OH

steven gregory

Steven Gregory


Photos by Scott Preston
Steven Gregory and Casey Lamb, 3.29.08, Peach's Grill, Yellow Springs, OH

Show Review - Richie Havens, 3.29.08, Peach's Grill

Review and Photos by Scott Preston

richie havens, folk musicI always enjoy when Richie Havens makes his annual trip through the state of Ohio. Peachs Grill in Yellow Springs, OH holds less than 200 people. Richie also had 2 very talented musicians playing with him, Walter Parks on guitar and Stephanie Winters on cello. I have rarely ever been to a show where single person in the bar was paying attention to what was happening on the stage. Everyone in the venue was hanging on every word that Richie spoke. It just shows the respect that the man receives. He started off the evening with Dylan's All Along the Watchtower. Followed a few songs later by Maggie's Farm. Richie is truly a master of interpretation of Bob Dylan's music. Shortly thereafter Richie sang his signature song Freedom.

Read the full show review here

Saturday, March 29, 2008

Bootzilla Productions Presents: "A Tribute to the Godfather of Soul" Tour

SUMMER TOUR
Bootzilla Productions Presents: "A Tribute to the Godfather of Soul":

bootsy collins, james brown, funkBootsy Collins joined the James Brown band at a ripe old age of 17.The Godfather had no mercy and quickly showed him how to play on the One, Then from there he let Bootsy do his thang, that's right, as long as it was James Brown Tight he could play all night. Now Bootsy and Original JB's Rhythm section: Catfish Collins, Guitar, Jabo(on the One)Starks and Clyde (the funky drummer) Stubblefield, on Drums, with Johnny (theAfrikan Groove-ulator) Griggs, and Bobby Byrd's son Bart Anderson Byrd, will sit in for Bobby Byrd on Organ. Tony Wilson, who Mr. Brown himself, acknowledged him as the "Young James Brown" will sing, will prance and dance while checking out The Hot Pants! Bobby Byrd Band featuring: Mrs. Vicky Anderson Byrd, who was one of the first Kings Queens to go solo as a James Brown Productions Artist, along with her sons and daughters will remind you why Bobby Byrd said, "I know you got Soul, if you didn't you wouldn't be in Here!" Escapism Band, put together by Brian Hardgroove the Bass player for Public Enemy, will make it Funky, along with a lot of other JB Classic's. Now Venisha Brown ,the daughter of James Brown, who not only looks exactly Like him, she also dances just like him, but she got the swerves and the curves that Papa didn't take no mess, didn't have.

Read full press release here

Friday, March 28, 2008

Interview with David Gans

Interview and Photos by Scott Preston

david gansKnown far and wide as the light behind the widely syndicated Grateful Dead Hour radio program, several books on the Dead and a number of intriguing CDs relating to the band and its music, David Gans has in recent years blossomed into a compelling performer in his own right, touring nationally and releasing several albums, the most recent of which is the critically acclaimed Twisted Love Songs. The seventeen tunes on Twisted Love Songs offer a wonderful glimpse of the breadth of this modern troubadour’s musical gifts.

Armed with his sturdy baritone, an electro-acoustic guitar and a pedal-controlled looping setup that allows him to layer multiple guitar parts into a complex contrapuntal weave, David makes the term “solo artist” seem woefully inadequate – surely we’re hearing other unseen guitarists in this glorious stew! But no, the folks who were witness to the live performances from which the album was culled can tell you there were no other players in the shadows or pre-recorded tape legerdemain involved – just a marvelous right brain-left brain synergy that allows David to conceive of and execute his loop collages in real-time and in perfect rhythm; no easy feat, to be sure. On the instrumental “Cassidy’s Cat,” he deftly interlaces melodic figures from a trio of beloved Grateful Dead songs – “Cassidy,” “China Cat Sunflower” and “Bird Song” – to fascinating effect: it unfolds like some steadily moving audio collage. Other songs on the CD use looping to different degrees, some not at all. This isn’t the gimmick of some one-trick pony, but a carefully conceived approach to song construction that has evolved with David’s own songwriting. (from bio on dgans.com)

Cincy Groove: Why did you choose the title "Twisted Love Songs" for your most recent cd?

David Gans: I originally wanted to call the album Twisted Love Songs and Workplace Travesties. This particular collection of songs has those kinds of themes in it. There are actually a couple songs that are both a twisted love song and a workplace travesty. Because sometimes work is a twisted love situation. Naming albums is one of those weird things. My last couple of cds were very plainly named, Solo Acoustic and Solo Electric. I thought I needed to display my character and wit a little bit.

Read the Full Interview Here

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Interview with Rob Chafin from The Werks

Interview by Scott Preston

rob chafin, the werksIn order to fully understand The Werks, one must first witness them perform live. Self-described as a groove rock band, The Werks' original songs explore genres such as funk, electronica, soul, bluegrass, jazz, afro-cuban, celtic, R&B, and dance. Their unique style of performing is affected and manipulated by the energy of the audience, guaranteeing that each show will be different and memorable.

Their influences are as eclectic as their music, but some common influences include Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, The Allman Brothers, Phish, Jimi Hendrix, Rush, The Beatles, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink Floyd, Umphrey's McGee, and The Grateful Dead.

The Werks have shared the stage with many great acts such as Ekoostik Hookah, Particle, Tea Leaf Green, Badfish, U-Melt, The Macpodz, BoomBox, Freekbass, One Under, The Maji, The Recipe, The Spikedrivers, Rumpke Mountain Boys, Papadosio, Jam Samich, Burning River Band, Mike Perkins, Covert Operations, Boogie Matrix Mechanism and The Goods to name a few.

As their tour radius increases, it is obvious that The Werks are becoming one of the Midwest's fastest growing bands. This success is largely accredited to the hard work of their street team and the dedication of their fans.

the werks


Cincy Groove: How long have The Werks been together?

Rob Chafin: Chuck and Houser were in one band and Dave and I were in another band. We ended up merging together about 2 1/2 years ago.

Cincy Groove: Who are some of your musical influences?

Rob Chafin: I would have to say Led Zeppelin, Phish, Umphreys McGee.

Cincy Groove: What other cities have The Werks played in?

Rob Chafin: We have played in Chicago, Florida, St Louis. So we are slowly be surely branching out. We also just found out we are playing at Bike Week up in Sandusky, Oh with ekoostik hookah. We were also told they are providing us with 2 hotel rooms which kind of amazed us. Having one hotel room is cool but getting 2 rooms doesn't happen very often.

Read the full Interview here - http://cincygroove.com/?q=node/205

500,000 hits in 365 Days for Katie Reider

katie reider


project goal.
The goal of this project is to link 500,000 people within 365 days to www.500Kin365.org. We want to connect people to singer songwriter Katie Reider’s character, wit, personality, genuine talent and soul, as she continues her ongoing battle with a myofibroblastic inflammation tumor.

Katie has something about her, which ignites when performing on stage. She truly connects to other people. She is the real deal, a true gift to those who know her and a personality with genuine talent. In the music industry, it's rare that fans can connect to the performer on a personal level.

This entire project will be internet based. After logging into the website, the user will meet Katie Reider. We will be producing a 3-5 min video trailer of Katie from the last 10 years, that will be posted on this website and youtube promoting the campaign. Next we will need to sum up the purpose of the project by talking a bit about this story and where proceeds are going. Let’s please keep in mind that we don’t want to focus on her battle as much as really help to connect people to the project. It’s not a pity party, it’s a cool concept for the greater good.

The action is to then give your $1.00 gift to the cause in exchange for Katie’s gift. We are only asking for a $1 contribution that will grant the user access to download a collection of 8 original songs Katie’s performed over the last 10 years. This is not a purchase, but an exchange. When you give, you receive!

100% of the proceeds go to Katie Reider’s 365-Day Benefit Fund. We believe this will not only connect people to Katie, but will reconnect Katie to her ever-growing audience, even if she is not on stage doing what she loves to do right now. We want everyone to have a chance to get to know Katie, as she continues her ongoing battle with this difficult journey. Let’s help Katie to continue to reach, inspire and perform
for new fans, young and old.

Read the full press release here - http://cincygroove.com/?q=node/206

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Interview with Cellist Stephanie Winters

stephanie winters


March 25, 2008

Interview by Scott Preston

Classically trained cellist Stephanie Winters is a pioneer in bringing the strength and richness of her instrument to different musical forms and genres. More than 100 artists have sought Stephanie out to record and tour with them, including Corrine Bailey Rae, Paula Cole, The O'Jays, Dar Williams, and Anne Murray.

Since 2004 Winters has been a cornerstone of Richie Havens' live show, playing more than 100 performances a year in North America, Europe and Australia with the Woodstock legend. She played on Havens last release, "Grace of the Sun", and is featured on Havens' forthcoming CD "Nobody Left to Crown" which was just released in Europe and is slated for a 2008 release in the United States.

Winters' CD of multi-tracked cello music, "Through The Storm", featuring works by Miles Davis, Bela Bartok, Ornette Coleman, and original compositions has received widespread acclaim. It is available through this website and at Stephanie's live performances.

Winters began her cello studies in the fourth grade in the Levittown, Long Island public school music program. She went on to graduate from The Juilliard School, Purchase College, and Columbia University. In the 1990s Winters and songwriter/guitarist Walter Parks toured and recorded as The Nudes. Winters resides in New York City.

stephanie winters, cello, cincy grooveCincy Groove: How did you end up playing with Richie Havens?

Stephanie Winters: Walter Parks (Richie's guitar player) and I had a duo called The Nudes in the 90's. We toured the folk circuit and opened for Richie a number of times. Richie said back then that he thought it would be great for us to play with him. Fast forward 10 years and Walter is lead guitarist. Walter and I had disbanded for quite a while at that point. They needed a cellist for Richie's Graces of the Sun cd. I played on the record and then they asked me to play the record release. They then asked me to do a couple more gigs and then it just kept expanding. Now the 3 piece is Richie's format.

Read the full interview here

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Interview with Walter Parks from Swamp Cabbage and Richie Havens

walter parks, cincy grooveWalter's been living music since he played viola in the sixth grade school orchestra. That was a tough time for a kid playing classical music because Jimi Hendrix was all the rage. So the guitar, being the cool cultural icon of the original hippie era, beckoned Walter as it did other kids. Restlessness with the requisite garage band phase inspired an interest in the harmonic complexities of jazz so Walter studied for three years with LA based jazz guitarist Robert Conti.

Since May of 2001, Walter has been playing with Richie Havens as a lead acoustic guitarist in his trio. He currently tours with Richie playing concerts in the US, Europe and Canada.

Walter has written with Robert Lamm of the group Chicago and has also supported jazz artist Leni Stern and David Wilcox in a side-man guitarist role. Additionally, HBO has used two of his song Lady and Gentlemen (The Nudes) and Early in the Morning (The Nudes) as background music for the popular special Real Sex.

Walter's new group Swamp Cabbage has released its first cd Honk and its now available through CD Baby . The sound pays well deserved homage to his swampified roots in the Jacksonville, Florida area where he grew up. Walter is enjoying using banjo finger picking styles with a gnarly old Guild Starfire electric guitar.

Cincy Groove: How did you end up playing with Richie full time?

Walter Parks: Well Stephanie Winters (Richie's cello player) and I have been playing together for 17 years. We had a group called The Nudes (formed in March of 1991) and we played all over the country. We used to be Richie's support act in various venues around the country. We both got our spots with Richie at different times but thats how he knew about us.

Read the full interview here

Freekbass and Buffalo Killers to Record Live at 20th Century Theater

freekbass, funk, cincy grooveFreekbass and Buffalo Killers to Record Live at 20th Century!

Freekbass announces his appearance with special guests Buffalo Killers at 20th Century Theater in Cincinnati, OH on Friday, April 18th.

The 20th Century Theater is located at 3021 Madison Road in Oakley Square. This all ages show show starts 8 pm.

Tickets are $10 advance / $12 day of show and are available at www.ticketmaster.com or at the 20th Century box office, 513-731-8000

- FILMING LIVE VIDEO AND RECORDING LIVE CD -

Freekbass and Buffalo Killers will play their last hometown show before each heading out to do national tours. Freekbass heads out with the “Bootsy Collins Tribute To The Godfather Of Soul Tour”, a tribute to the late James Brown. The multi-act tour will feature artists Bootsy Collins & The Hardest Working Band, Escapism (featuring Venisha Brown), Bobby Byrd Band, Afrika Bambaataa, Fred Wesley, Chuck D, Freekbass, I Candi, Djizzle and ZionPlanet10. The tour will also travel to Japan for three dates, including the famed Fuji Rock Festival in July. Buffalo Killers will head out on tour with The Black Keys.

Read the full press release

Video : The Ragbirds, 3.13.08, Stanleys Pub, Cincinnati, OH


The Ragbirds

This is a very exciting band from Ann Arbor Michigan. They will also be playing at spring hookahville 2008. To see all the videos of The Ragbirds go here

Friday, March 21, 2008

Sonny Moorman to open for Robin Trower on April 1 at Bogarts in Cincinnati, OH

sonny moorman, blues, cincinnati music

Sonny Moorman (right)


Cincinnati's own Sonny Moorman has been announced to open for Robin Trower at Bogarts in Cincinnati, Oh on April 1st, 2008.

tickets can be purchased here

Bogart's
w/ Robin Trower
2621 Vine St.
Cincinnati
doors open @ 7PM,
SMG @ 8PM, 281-8400
www.bogarts.com
Sonny's website - www.sonnymoorman.com

Interview with Richie Havens

richie havens, cincy groove


March 20, 2008

Interview and Photos by Scott Preston

Richie Havens is gifted with one of the most recognizable voices in popular music. His fiery, poignant, always soulful singing style has remained unique and ageless since he first emerged from the Greenwich Village folk scene in the early 1960’s. It’s a voice that has inspired and electrified audiences from the Woodstock Music & Arts Fair in 1969, to the Bill Clinton Presidential Inauguration in 1993 -coming full circle with the 30th Woodstock Anniversary celebration, "A Day In The Garden", in 1999.

For over three decades, Richie has used his music to convey messages of brotherhood and personal freedom. With more than twenty-five albums released and a touring schedule that would kill many a younger man, he continues to view his calling as a higher one. As he told The Denver Post, "I really sing songs that move me. I’m not in show business, I’m in the communications business. That’s what it’s about for me". (from richiehavens.com)

I have had the pleasure to see Richie perform a few times over the years. The last time was in 2005 at Peach's Grill in Yellow Springs, OH. Peach's doesn't hold a lot of people, I'm guessing but probably no more than 200. When Richie started performing there was complete silence. No one spoke a word, everyone was focused on Richie. This just proves the respect he has earned over the years from everyone that has heard him perform. On top of that he generally will come out after his show is over and will sign autographs and take photos with the fans. Which is something he doesn't have to do, but I believe he really enjoys interacting with people. Richie will be making a return performance to Peach's Grill in Yellow Springs, OH on March 29, 2008.

read the full article here - http://www.cincygroove.com/?q=node/190

Interview with Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay from Donna Jean and The Tricksters

Interview by Scott Preston
Photos by Susana Millman

donna jean, trickstersDonna Jean Godchaux MacKay was born to sing, and over the course of time she’s done so with people like Elvis Presley, Percy Sledge, Boz Scaggs, and Jerry Garcia. Now she has a new band that she’s quite certain is on a creative par with anything she’s ever done. “This band is a perfect fit for me as a singer/songwriter,” she said recently, “and I hope to be doing this for a long time to come. We’re having so much fun with this music!” The Grateful Dead alumna has joined up with six members of the next musical generation – Mookie Siegel (David Nelson Band; formerly Phil & Friends, RatDog), Wendy Lanter (Hope in Time), and Jeff Mattson, Tom Circosta, Klyph Black and Dave Diamond (Zen Tricksters) to form Donna Jean and the Tricksters. (from donnajeanandthetricksters.com)

Cincy Groove: Were you a part of Muscle Shoals Sound Studio from the beginning? Who did you get to work with?

Donna Jean: I started going to the studio when I was 12 and began singing on demos when I was 15. By the time I was a singer in high school I was singing on hit records. I also ended up singing with Elvis Presley in Memphis. I sang on 2 of his comeback hits which were Suspicious Minds and In The Ghetto. The first major number one hit I sang on was When a Man Loves A Woman by Percy Sledge. I also sang with Boz Scaggs, was on Cher's first solo album, Ben E. King, Joe Simon. I sang on "Take a Letter Maria" by R.B. Greaves.

Read the full article here - http://www.cincygroove.com/?q=node/188

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Interview with Zion Rock Godchaux from Boombox

boombox

BoomBox - photo by Norman Sands


March 18, 2008

Interview by Scott Preston

BoomBox is producer/DJ Russ Randolph and singer/songwriter/guitarist Zion Rock Godchaux. This pair of dynamic artists uses their rich musical history and their vision of music and popular culture to deliver a style of music distinctly different from anything heard or seen in music today. This signature sound and show brings live music to a new, elevated level.

BoomBox evolved through the common visualization of a pair of forward thinking artists from diverse musical backgrounds. Raised by supportive and musically inclined parents, both Godchaux and Randolph had an obsession with music at very young ages. Godchaux, who grew up with deeply embedded rock and roll roots, began playing drums at the age of two, and played guitar and wrote his own songs as a teen. During the 90s, Godchaux was a well-received touring DJ based out of the San Francisco area. Randolph began as a young drummer, but it’s what was happening behind the scenes that attracted him most. As much producers as they are musicians, its Randolph’s understanding of soundscape and Godchaux’s knack for songwriting that keeps BoomBox resonating at higher levels. (from thisisboombox.com)

boombox, zion godchaux, russ randolphCincy Groove: How did you and Russ end up performing together?

Zion Godchaux: We met in Alabama when we were working on a record for The Heart of Gold Band called "At The Table" with my mom (Donna Jean Godchaux-McKay), my uncle and step dad. Russ was brought in as an engineer on the record. We obviously spent hours and hours in the studio working on this record. Finally it dawned on us that we could work pretty well together.

Read the full article http://www.cincygroove.com/?q=node/185

Monday, March 10, 2008

Interview with Kinsey Rose

Below is my Interview with country singer/songwriter Kinsey Rose. She is an extremely talented singer from Louisville, KY and has her debut cd coming out sometime this summer.

http://www.cincygroove.com/?q=node/168

Scott

Saturday, March 8, 2008

Interview with Dan Tyminski

For those of you who don't know who Dan Tyminski is, he has been guitarist and mandolin player for Alison Krauss since 1994 and sang "Man of Constant Sorrow" on the O' Brother Where Art Thou soundtrack.

Here is my Interview with Dan Tyminski:
http://www.cincygroove.com/?q=node/161

Scott