What to do this weekend? Glad you asked!

Hello lovelies,
I’ve got your weekend planned.
Seriously, down to the minute, planned.
I can’t believe how much great stuff there is going. I like to think its all in honor of my birthday weekend -- I can celebrate the whole weekend, right?

I. (first-ever) Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe Show - Friday, May 16th, 7:00 pm @ Boulevard Place Café
II. Otis Gibbs House Concert- Friday, May 16, 7 pm (arrive between 6:30-6:45 pm)
III. Jeff Holmes (of the Floating Men) –Friday, May 16, 8:00 pm @ Indy Hostel
IV. Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market – Saturday, May 17, 8:00-noon, behind BRHS
V. Cottage Home Neighborhood Home Tour- Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
VI. Broad Ripple Art Fair – Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
VII. ike Winter with Amy & Duane Summers – Saturday, May 17, 7:00 pm @ Indy Hostel.
VIII. Lare Williams and New Direction House Concert – Sunday, May 18, 6:00 pm.

I realized as I was typing the list that all of the events are nonsmoking and family friendly. And don’t feel like you need to just pick one this to do this weekend. – I think four out of eight is very reasonable.

Read on for details, descriptions and a way to get a free ticket to the Cottage Home Home Tour and a complimentary yoga session!
- I’m sure I’ll see you out and about,
xoxo, Nora


I. (first-ever) Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe Show
Bill Price, Frank Dean and Brent Bennett
Friday, May 16th, 7:00 pm, $5.
Boulevard Place Café
4155 Boulevard Place


Cliff Synder is the hardest working man in the singer/songwriter business. He’s kicking off the first of a series of Songwriters Café Shows. Cliff created this wonderful site: Songwriters Café. It is chock-full of information, schedules and one air-brushed photo of moi. Cliff has put his heart, soul, countless hours and money-where-his-mouth-is into this show. The rounded up the best-of-the best for this show. It would warm his little heart to see you there.
www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com
www.billprice.info
www.frankdean.com
www.brentbennettmusic.com


II. Otis Gibbs House Concert
Friday, May 16, 7 pm (arrive between 6:30-6:45 pm)
$10

The Jackson’s are the new kids on the house concert circuit. They are hosting Wanamaker’s favorite son Otis Gibbs.
The details -
Who: You + your musically astute friends & family (no small children please)
Where: The Jackson’s house near Butler University
When: Friday, May 16 @ 7pm start time. Please arrive between 6:30 & 6:45
Why: Because we love good music by good people
Suggested Donation: $10 (100% of donations go to Otis)
Feel free to bring a snack or your favorite drink to share. NO RED WINE.
They have two 60-lb friendly dogs that will be locked up for the night. But if you are allergic, remember to take your allergy medicine.
They will send you a confirmation letter (which includes directions to our home in near Butler University on Indy’s North side) when you write back to let us know you'll be joining us for this great evening of music. RSVP to kyle@flatearthrecords.com
About Otis: Otis writes & sings songs that tell stories about small town life, simple pleasures, as well as protest songs championing workers rights.
Rick Cornell of NO DEPRESSION described Otis music as, “It’s the perfect mix of wit & grit.”
The CHAMPIAGN/URBANA CITY VIEW said, “Thinking Mans Country comes closest to the sound & wordsmithing of this brilliant singer/songwriter.”

www.otisgibbs.com
www.reverbnation.com/otisgibbs
www.flatearthrecords.com


III. Jeff Holmes (of the Floating Men)
Friday, May 16, 8:00 pm, $10
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave

The Indy Hostel has a house concert vibe, the only difference is the living room is bigger, brighter and has a better sound system than my house. And no stacks of books to trip over. Floating Man member Jeff Holmes is playing a solo show. I love this quote, “He's the illegitimate father of lit-rock and could've launched Americana—yet Jeff Holmes still keeps a day job after two decades of great songwriting. It's a dashing "I'm the biologist who's gonna save the world" kind of day job, but Renaissance men should be free to let the art come first… The only other consistency has been Holmes' ability to write incredibly indulgent music that's catchy and appealing. He's a timid intellectual at heart, but also a wordy bastard who's fearless in mining classic pop territory. That's enough to qualify him as a true outsider artist, but without the extra chromosome."
-J.R, Taylor , Black and White, Birmingham's City Paper
www.indyhostel.us
www.myspace.com/jeffholmesthefloatingmen

IV. Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market
behind Broad Ripple High School
Saturday, May 17, 8:00-noon

This is the third week for the Market. Last week’s purchases: a package of locally produced pork chops, goat cheese, 4-H geraniums, a poppy plant and two tomato plants. The pork chops are so big and hearty looking and enough for a family of four that they scared me and I tossed them in the freezer- I blame Joe the cute meat guy for making me lose focus. I’ve been snacking on the cheese all week and have managed not to kill any of the plants, yet. The Market has it all- pie, music and community. Check out musician Tom Duncan while you’re there.

V. Cottage Home Neighborhood Home Tour
Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
11:00-5:00
$10, available at each home

I adore the Cottage Home Neighborhood. Lovely houses and even more charming neighbors. I rode my bike to an event there last year. Before I headed home someone filled my tire with air, I’d had two home tours and a beer – all offered by people that I didn’t know. The home and garden tour features twelve eclectic homes…and, of course, gardens. For more information: www.cottagehome.info
I’ll be hanging out (docent is the official term) at the Henderson house on Saturday, and not just because Laura offered a free yoga class. She is still looking for a few more volunteers to help “man” their house- the reward: a pass to the tour and a yoga class for a two hour volunteer shift. Contact Laura for more details: leahpilates@gmail.com

VI. Broad Ripple Art Fair
Saturday, 10:00-6:00
Sunday, 10:00-5:00
Indianapolis Art Center$15 adults/$2 children

I don’t know that I can say much about this Art Fair that has not been said in the last 38 years.
Great art (say hi to Douglas David) and fabulous music (Michael Kelsey, The Richmonds and Ruditoonz to name a few).
Click here to download the program.


VII. Mike Winter with Amy & Duane Summers
Saturday, May 17
7:00 pm, $5
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave

Mike Winters... a blend of country rock influences with songs of love for God, country and family. A balance of tempo ballads and rockers.
Duane and Amy Summers... Amy is a singer songwriter with passion, powerful lyrics and a beautiful singing voice. Duane adds strong accompaniment and harmonies.

www.indyhostel.us


VIII. Lare Williams and New Directon
Home Fields Advantage Concert Series Season Finale
Sunday, May 18, 6 pm
$10 donation

I saved the best for last!
The Home Fields Advantage Concert Series sets the bar pretty darn high for house concerts.
I’ll let the lovely Cary Allen Fields give you the lowdown:
It's been a marvelous "Home Fields Advantage" house concert season, and we're going to wrap it up in style!
With frequently-requested original songs such as "Changing Town" often heard on The Fields Of Bluegrass Radio Hour, this national touring act hails from Western Michigan and is one of the finest contemporary bluegrass aggregations on the scene today.
Lare Williams, with his smooth and distinctive tenor voice, leads this highly-entertaining family band which also includes Patty and Baley Williams. Rounding out the quartet is banjo man Tod Chapman. Everyone contributes vocals, and the harmonies and fine ensemble playing of Lare Williams & New Direction are truly a thing to be heard and to behold!

Hear here:
www.myspace.com/larewilliamsnewdirection
www.larewilliams.com

And, in keeping with our Utopian vision for a better musical tomorrow,
100% goes to the artists.

And...

This is a pitch-in, so bring a dish or favorite drink, if you'd like.

Please RSVP ASAP!!! bluegrassindy@yahoo.com
This one will fill-up fast, there are only 25 seats available.

We'll send a confirmation letter (which includes directions to our illustrious hostess Cyndi's warm and welcoming home in Nora on Indy's north side) when you write back to let us know you'll be joining us for this great evening of music.

http://fieldsofbluegrass.com
http://myspace.com/fields_of_bluegrass

That’s all I’ve got folks- I’ll see you soon,
N.

Kriss Luckett and Greg Ziesmer May 10

first published in the nuvo

Kriss Luckett and Greg Ziesmer are wrapping up the 2007-2008 Indy Folk Series season. 

Read the preview here. 

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 10

I’ve been super busy lately…I know, I know, what’s new Spitznogle? You’re always busy. Let’s see…to catch up, the MacBook arrived and I promptly burned a blister on to the top. That might have set a new record for how quickly I’ve dinged up something new.

The day the computer arrived was great. I got home in time to mow the lawn for the first time this year --for the first time since it's been 'my house, my yard.' The mower started up on the first pull and I finished five minutes before the rain began. I popped a bowl of popcorn and sat in my living room with the door open, lights off and candles lit. The house smelled great-- rain, springtime, freshly cut grass and the scent of a candle that I bought in Ireland. I didn't turn on the television all night (even though the pull of Ugly Betty, The Office and Grey's Anatomy was pretty heavy). I sat in my grandpa's old rocker in the dark and wrote and rocked and thought and rocked and wrote and enjoyed being in my house.

Around 11:00 I put my hand on the top of the computer to shut the lid and made a horrible discovery. I honestly thought I was going to faint. The beautiful smelling Belleck candle from had melted a spot on the top of the computer.

I’m happy to show off the new black MacBook, just pretend like you don’t see the big bump.

Justin Townes Earle

Friday, April 25, 2005

Spencer’s Stadium Tavern

Tammy Lieber and I trekked out of our Broad Ripple comfort zone to see Justin Townes Earle. I always try to write about Justin with out mentioning that he is the son of Steve Earle and namesake of Townes Van Zandt, but that is nearly impossible. And as much as he might not want it to be, it’s part of his story. I cannot imagine how hard it is to be 25 years old, sober for four years and constantly being compared to his iconic father.

This was my fourth time seeing Justin in Indianapolis, and I’m a big fan. I have one of his posters hanging in my office and listen to his “Yuma” CD often. I’m really enjoying watching Justin try out new styles and grow in to his own skin. I’m also thrilled to see that Indianapolis is starting to support him. The first couple of times that I saw him the same dozen people were in the audience. This show the dozen of us (minus Otis and Amy) were joined by fifty other people. It warmed my heart to see people singing along and dancing to Justin’s songs. I think a big part of that has to do with Justin’s new album being featured on the listening posts at Luna Music.

Justin played a song about being a 15 year-old in a Methadone clinic in North Carolina. It occurred to me that methadone is the new whiskey in country music songs.

Justin was touring with Cory Younts. Cory played harmonica, banjo and mandolin. The two created some good old honky-tonk fun. They played Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Justin teased Cory about his banjo “looks like some hillbilly put strings on a drum.”

For this first time since I’ve been seeing Justin he played one of his father’s songs, “because he was in a good mood.” Off stage Justin told me that he finally came around to singing his father’s songs after a fan pointed out that if someone came to see Arlo Guthrie, they would expect to hear a Woody Guthrie song and know that he was honoring his father’s music, not trying to be his father.

I purchased his new CD, “The Good Life,” but have not had a chance to listen to it yet. He played a lot of his new songs; they had a Western swing, honky-tonk flavor. I like how he’s experimenting with his sound, finding his own groove- just like any 25 year old should.

I also experimented with something at this show, trying to find my writing groove. I decided that I could take notes on my iPhone. It’s got a notebook feature and it lights up. Perfect solution, right? Wrong! I felt so lame, like I was sending text messages instead of listening to the music.
www.myspace.com/justintownesearle

Peter Sagal

Block Forum Series

Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation

The Block Forum series is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Peter Sagal is the host of the quiz show Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! And he’s very funny. He told us that he could not do his typical talk because he usually plays clips from the show and was not able to do that here. He talked about how Indiana is ripe for political pandering and we could play a good prank on the politicians by pretending that our only concern was with oversized golf clubs. You can read the whole essay on his Web site.

Peter just published his first book “The Book of Vice. Very Naughty Things (And How To Do Them). When he was signing my book, I mentioned that I’ve always wanted to be known as Naughty Nora, but I could never quite pull it off. Peter signed the book: To Naughty Nora, maybe this will help.

I’ll keep you posted.

http://www.petersagal.com/

Mini Marathon

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Thanks to all of the musicians who played along the Mini Marathon route. I cannot tell you how much it is appreciated. I really enjoyed Win With Willard, they were pop-y fresh faced goodness even that early in the morning, especially after I know they played at the Melody Inn the night before. Oh, to be young again.

Previews:
Second Friday, Second Helpings

Friday, May 9, 2008

9:00, 21+, donation to Second Helpings

The Upper Room (above Broad Ripple Steak House)

Cara Jean Wahlers, Jenn Christy and Dawn Matheson

This is the third installment of the Second Friday, Second Helpings series. The musicians (note the all-woman lineup) will trade songs and stories - my very favorite way to hear music. I’m already a big Cara fan (The Breakups, 19Clark25), I’ve been remiss in not hearing Jenn sooner and I’m not even sure if I’m spelling Dawn’s name properly – so it will be a fun new discovery!
Last month the show raised $100 for Second Helpings, it was really appreciated- noticed the gas prices recently? Feel free to bring rice and pasta- we use 125 pounds every single day.

Friday, May 16, 2008

7pm,

$5, all ages, non smoking

Frank Dean, Bill Price and Brent BennettBoulevard Place Café

4155 Boulevard Place

Cliff Snyder is presenting the first of a monthly songwriter series hosted by the Indianapolis Songwriters Café. Cliff is the hardest working man in the singer-songwriter world. He’s put together an amazing Web site. He describes the Indianapolis Songwriters Café as a “community bridge, bringing together information and resources for both local artists and fans of songwriter music.

The ISC will host a monthly show the third Friday of the every month at Boulevard Place Cafe, featuring three songwriters in the round. Creating a true listening room environment that will give both performers and audience an intimate, memorable experience where songs can be heard and stories can be told. The Web site is loaded with information on local venues, a community calendar, promoters and songwriter friendly press/radio contacts, open mic events, house concerts and more. ISC will serve as a one-stop shop for anything songwriter related in Indianapolis.

The long-term goal of the Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe is simple - to create an atmosphere & culture where Indianapolis finds more songwriters performing original music locally and to see more fans connected with artists.”

The Friday show will feature Frank Dean (Sindacato), Bill Price (Brains behind Pa) and Brent Bennett (Brent Bennett & The Movers).

Cliff has created a wonderful thing. Please check out the Web site for lots of great information. As a bonus, you get see my air-brushy professional photograph.

http://www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com/

Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market

Saturday’s,

8:00-noon behind BRHS

May 10- Chad Mills

May 17- Tom Duncan

I had to miss the first week of the Market (Mini Marathon), so I’m looking forward to Saturday. Take some time to hang out and hear the music.

Tonic BallFriday,

November 21

You heard it here first- The King vs. Queen.

Yep, Elvis songs will be covered in the Fountain Square Theatre and Queen in Radio Radio.

Oh, baby

Emily Wood, Emily White and Abi Tapia

first published in nuvo

Preview for two great singer-songwriter shows featuring three amazing woman. Read it here.

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 9

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

My beloved Apple iBook laptop computer has not worked properly for the last six weeks. I tried to get it repaired but there was no fixing it. I finally ordered a new MacBook that should be here by the time you read this. I feel like I owe the iBook a bit of a send off. It was my first-ever new-to-me computer and my first laptop. It launched the Buzzing Around Town column and started my freelance gigs for NUVO. The computer allowed me to do Second Helpings work at home and keep my life organized. I discovered social networking, blogging and the power of Google. I hauled that laptop all around the country and Ireland. Many nights I fell asleep with it at my side. It became a bit of a security blanket for me.

I’ve come a long way since I unboxed that computer over two years ago. For the first six months you could find me parked out side of the Newsstand or the Hostel at night, grabbing the wireless signal that wafted through the windows. I’ve become a better writer (practice, practice, practice) and a better photographer. I’ll remember the iBook fondly, just like my first record player, first car and my first apartment. But I can’t wait to meet the next version.


Chad Mills and Cliff Snyder
Second Friday, Second Helpings
Friday, April 9, 2008
The Upper Room

The thing about being computer-less at home is that the tenuous hold I have on organizing my life is stretched. When I write I build a nest around me. I like to have my resources close at hand. They include my black reporter’s notebook, a diet Pepsi, a calendar and Twizzlers at a minimum. I’m writing away from him, I gathered the soda and candy but managed to forget my notebook. So the upshot is- I loved the show, but cannot give you any details.

I’ve written about my love for Chad Mill’s music before and nothing has changed. I enjoyed his new songs and he played several of my favorites including Purgatory. His sister Megan joined him for several songs. They harmonize beautifully. I think that Chad is working on a new record, sign me up!

Cliff Snyder impressed the hell out of me. I’ve been listening to his CD and enjoying it, I was even more impressed with his live show than I was the first time I heard him.

Christamore House Guild Book and Author Benefit
Thursday and Friday, April 17 and 18, 2008

I’m a member of the Christamore House Guild. The Guild does amazing things and is a huge financial supporter of the Christamore House. I never thought of myself as a Guild type of woman. Of course, I was not quite sure what a Guild did, and I kind of thought you had to be blonde and live in Carmel. I was hooked on Christamore House Guild when I first went to the Book and Author Benefit three years ago.

The first Book and Author luncheon was held 28 years ago and supports the Frances Carter Coburn Scholarship Fund. The Scholarship Fund has provided over $850,000 to 550 students from the city’s Haughville neighborhood.
This year’s authors were, Peter Carey, Hillary Jordan, Sue Miller, T.Jefferson Parker and Cokie Roberts. There was an author’s reception on Thursday evening. Cokie Roberts was not in town in time for this part of the benefit- the Guild was usurped by the Pope. The other four authors gave a little talk, mingled with the guests and signed books.

First time novelist Hillary Jordan has already won the Bellweather Prize for Mudbound. The award was founded by Barbara Kingsolver to recognize literature of social responsibility. Hillary was delightful and spoke about on the great work of the Christamore House. After hearing her speak, I went back for a second copy of her book. Don’t tell Mom what I got her for Mother’s Day.

Peter Carey has been called one of the greatest storytellers alive. His Illegal Self is his latest book and is set in New York in the 1960s. He is witty and charming. After hearing him speak I also purchased another copy of his book for a birthday gift.

Sue Miller latest novel, The Senator’s Wife is based on several of her friends of friends who have taken an estranged spouse in during times of sickness. She is teaching at an MFA program in California. I asked is she was getting to do a lot of great reading. She said that some of her students still needed to hone their craft. She was very gracious about her student’s talent.

T.Jefferson Parker writes about a modern Jesse James is his novel L.A.Outlaws. He lives in California and joked on Thursday night about loving the weather (it was 70 degrees that day) and the lack of earthquakes. He started his Friday speech thanking us “for making him feel at home with the nice gift basket and earthquake.”

The Friday luncheon was at the Indiana Roof. The event was a sell-out at 960 people. Vera Bradley gave each person an amazing book bag. It makes my canvas bags look a little plain. If you’ve ever been to an event at the Roof you know that they start the program with a faux thunderstorm complete with thunder and lightning. That just happened to coincide with the earthquake after-shock. It was very exciting!

Cokie Roberts spoke about her book, Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation. She talked about the women that helped shape our nation and the surreal experience of joining President and Mrs. Bush in greeting the Pope on the airport tarmac in New York earlier in the week.

Friday, April 18, 2008
Punkin Holler Boys
Gary Wasson + Cara Jean Wahlers
The Historic Melody Inn

My timing has really sucked lately. I worked late to make up for being gone three hours for the Book and Author Luncheon. I totally missed Gary Wasson and Cara Jean Wahlers set. I did hear that they’ve settled on a name for their duo- The Breakups.

I did get to hear the last couple of Punkin Holler Boys show. They sounded great and had everyone playing attention. They left us all, especially me wanting to hear more.

I was admiring the cool flyer/maze/artwork reminding folks that The Punkin Holler Boys play the third Friday of each month. It is a really piece of art…except the gentle poke at singer/songwriters and coffeehouses in the corner. As it turns out it is the art work of band member Jon Sheets. Is there no end to his talent?

You can see them again at the Melody Inn on Friday, May 16th.

Previews:

Wayne Bertsch, the very talented artist behind the Barfly Comix featured in NUVO started a Music Scene 101 series last month. The first installment gives great suggestions about getting publicity for your band. Have a professional looking press kit, including a band biography, a press photograph and a demo CD. Write a press release if you have a special event coming up. It needs to cover the basics: who, what, when and where. Don’t forget to include what time the gig starts and how much it costs. Make sure you have the information available at least three weeks before the show, and the sooner the better to meet deadlines. You don’t need to do anything fancy or spend a lot of money. You can have all of that stuff available on your MySpace page, and email a link. I cannot tell you how many times I start to write about a band and cannot confirm names, venue information or hear bit of their music. Having basic information available goes a long way, especially for someone like me that writes in her spare time, as a hobby.

I got the perfect promo packet in the mail last month. It was sent in plenty of time for me to listen to the demo several times and the basic information was printed on each piece. They used labels, genius! They included a three song CD, a photograph and a postcard/flyer for the show. Each label included the band member’s names, contact information, a blurb about the band, release date of the album, date and addresses of the gigs and listed the bands joining them for the CD release show. I’ve been bragging about how clever it was for weeks, and I’m sure it didn’t cost them much money. So in honor of best promotional material I’ve ever received….

Eisenhower Field Day
Friday, May 2, 2008
CD release extravaganza
LUNA music
5202 N. College Ave
6:00, free, all-ages

The Melody Inn
3826 N. Illinois St.
9:30, $7 admission includes CD, 21+

I first heard Eisenhower Field Day at an in-store performance at Luna a couple of years ago and remember really liking them. I made a mental note and didn’t do anything about it; it was before I started writing about music stuff. The band is made up of Noah Butler (guitar and vocals) Holly Butler (bass and vocals) and Phil Kitchel (drums and vocals).

Their new record “Tyrants and Spies” is fantastic. The trio sounds bigger than three people. Beautiful harmonies, melodies, smart songwriting and enough rock to be truly called power-pop. The fact that the cover art is by one of my favorite painters, Kyle Ragsdale is just icing on the cake.

The first of their CD release shows will be an acoustic in-store performance at Luna Records. If you’ve never been to an in-store at a record store it is a perfect way to get a taste of the band. The record store shows are all-ages so bring your children. Your teenagers will think you’re cool, even if they don’t stand anywhere near you.

They play a plugged-in show at the Melody Inn later that night. The line-up includes the bands Hey Hey Melodica, Win With Willard and an appearance by The Naptown Roller Girls. I have a feeling that all of the cool kids will be there.

trina hamlin and natalia zuckerman

I got a chance to write about one of my favorite musicians for NUVO.
Check out the peice on Trina Hamlin and Natalia Zuckerman here.

The first time I met Trina she just knocked my socks off.
The Indy Folk Series is a great place to see music.

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 8

First published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

I didn’t see any music in the last two weeks. I worked extra shifts at the Red Key and my beloved Apple iBook is on the fritz and it has thrown my little world on tilt. So much so that I forgot to go see Kriss Luckett and Greg Ziesemer play. It is very bad form to reserve space at a house concert and not attend. Sorry Greg and Kriss, I owe you one.

Russel Settle’s Red Key Anniversary Party
April 2, 2008



Since I don’t have any music to talk about, wanna hear about my bartending shift? Russell has owned the Red Key for 57 years -- since 1951. How amazing is that? Anniversary day always turns in to a reunion. The mirrors were lined with photographs from previous anniversaries. I swear Russel looks as same as he did on the 32nd anniversary, I think he might have been wearing the same vest. I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it- it is my honor to work at the Red Key.

Previews:
Second Friday, Second Helpings
Friday, April 11, 9 pm, 21+
The Upper Room (above the Broad Ripple Steak House)
929 E. Westfield Blvd

The second edition of Second Friday, Second Helpings will feature Chad Mills, Matt Martin and a yet to be confirmed guest. The three musicians will be playing in the round, trading songs. This will be the first time I’ve heard Matt and I’m looking forward to it.

We all know how I feel about Chad Mills. He’s an amazing songwriter and singer. I often have his songs stuck in my head (in a good way). His shows are always high-energy and fun.

The show benefits Second Helpings, so bring cash and/or rice and pasta. Last month we collected 50 pounds of rice and pasta and almost $50. Every little bit helps. Second Helpings has two refrigerated box trucks and six vans on the road picking up thousands of pounds of rescued food and delivering 2900 hot meals to fifty other social service agencies every day. I don’t need to tell you how the high gas prices affect the agency. Second Helpings is on track to spend over $25,000 in gas this year.


http://www.secondhelpings.org/
http://www.chadmillslive.com/

Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Open Mic Night at The Whammy Bar
Music Mill, 8 pm, 21+
3720 E. 82nd Street

The Whammy Bar has to be the best name for a bar inside of a music venue, ever. I actually clapped when I read the name. Well done! A whammy bar (or tremolo arm) is the lever-like attachment that you see near the tailpiece of some electric guitars. They allow the guitar player to vary the tension on the strings and temporally change the pitch to create a vibrato effect. My favorite style is the Bigsby, favored by Chet Atkins and surf rock players. Clearly at one point in my life I spend way too much time learning this stuff trying to impress a certain guitar player. Anyway, on to the preview….

Chad Mills will be hosting an open mic night at the bar starting Tuesday, April 15. From the calendar listing it looks like it will be held every Tuesday night.

http://www.themusicmillvenue.com/
http://www.chadmillslive.com/

Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
Via Audio
Grampall Jookabox
Locals Only, $8 (presale) $10 (door), 8:30, 21+

The pop band Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin is from Springfield, MO. SSLYBY became a word-of-mouth favorite and soon went from playing libraries to headlining a European tour.

The Boston based Via Audio have been playing together since 2003 and have caught the ear of the band members of Death Cab for Cutie and Spoon.

Grampall Jookabox has been described as Jungle Folk. Think experimental meets Americana.

You can buy advance tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/

www.myspace.com/boris
www.viaaudio.net/
www.myspace.com/grampalljookabox
www.localsonlyindy.com

Friday, April 18, 2008
Punkin Holler Boys
Gary Wasson + Cara Jean Wahlers
Melody Inn, 7:30 – 9:30, $4, 21 +
3826 N Illinois St

Hillbilly Happy Hour happens every Friday and it has been way too long since I’ve been there. The Punkin Holler Boys are a staple at HHH will their good time old-fashioned folk bluegrassy fun. A toe tapping good time is guaranteed.

Gary Wasson and Cara Jean Wahlers as so new as a duo that they have not settled on a name yet. Don’t let that scare you, they have been playing together in various groups and back porch practice sessions that you can tell they have great chemistry. You can expect original songs and a fun dose of quirky covers. They will be playing in between the Punkin Holler Boys sets.


http://www.melodyindy.com/
www.myspace.com/punkinhollerboys
www.myspace.com/garyandcara


Friday, April 25, 2008
Hayes Carll
Sam’s Saloon, 9 pm, $10, 21+
1640 East Prospect Street (Fountain Square)

I have a bordering-on-stalkerish crush on the music of Hayes Carll. I saw him open for Robert Earl Keen last year and was blown away. I purchased his Little Rock CD and listen to it at least once a day (I guess in addition to my stalking tendencies I’m a little obsessive). I was so excited when I read on My Old Kentucky Blog that Hayes was coming to town that I bugged Scott Shogar, the music editor of NUVO to let me write a preview. I wrote to Hayes publicist who mailed me the not-yet-released album Trouble In Mind, which I adore just as much as I did Little Rock.

I can’t tell you how cool it was to get the CD in a marked “advanced copy.” Of course when it came time to actually form the questions to ask Hayes I had major writers block. I’m so glad that I opted to send him questions instead of a phone interview.

Anyway, the point of this rambling is: Go to the show, you won’t be disappointed. Seriously, pinky swear.

http://www.hayescarll.com/
www.myspace.com/samssaloonindianapolis
http://myoldkyhome.blogspot.com/

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 7 (the Ireland edition)

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette:

I was in Ireland earlier this month, traveling with my Philadelphia friend Kevin and his extended family. I had a wonderful time. I had the chance to hear lots of music, on the streets, pubs and on our bus.

Dublin, Ireland
Temple Bar
Sunday, March 1, 2008

The Temple Bar (Barra an Teampaill) area of Dublin reminds me of a medieval Broad Ripple. Temple Bar is just south of the River Liffey in central Dublin. It is chock full of restaurants, pubs, art galleries and shops all tucked on a web of narrow cobbled streets.


The area has a lively nightlife and plenty of music, both on the streets and in the pubs. I saw a fun band on the street that was drawing a big crowd. They had a jammy Celtic sound. The name of the band is Slàinte, translates to ‘health’ and is also a popular drinking toast. I had no luck researching them.

We had just wandered in to the Aul Dubliner Bar when I heard the last few songs of Mick McDonnell’s set. It wasn’t until he was on the search for a bandage that we started chatting. I wound up trading a Hello Kitty Band-aid (doesn’t everyone keep one in their wallet?) for a most excellent CD – Still Here.


McDonnell’s band Sundrive has a great grown-up pop sound – actual hooks, harmonies and melodies that remind me of the good old days. It is one of those records that makes me smile even before I press the play button.

Mick and Steve Cranley met while working on a project for in 1997 and began collaborating and playing on each others recordings. They started writing together and recording as Sundrive. The first time they played public was to an estimated 100,000 people at the Party in the Park show in August of 2002. I look forward to following their career.

www.myspace.com/sundrivetheband

Saw Doctors
On the bus
March 2-9

This was my first introduction to the Saw Doctors. Boy was I missing out! Good rockin’ sing-along fun. The Saw Doctors are from County Galway, but ironically they were in the States when we were in Ireland. But I got to hear plenty of their music as we toured the coast of Ireland. In fact we drove through Tuam, hometown to three of the band members and stopped to take photographs of the sign for N17, the title of one of their songs. N17 is the road from Tuam to Galway. The N17 is the road a young person leaving the west of Ireland would likely take when emigrating. I’ve still got several Saw Doctors songs stuck in my head, in a good way.

http://www.sawdoctors.com/

Kitchen Bar
Victoria Square, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Friday, March 7, 2008

I was blown away by Belfast. I honestly expected a war-torn shell of a town. Admittedly I was only there for four hours and I hadn’t done my homework. Three of us peeled off from the group and took a bus to Belfast center. Our first stop was Victoria Square the just-opened-the-day-before commercial, residential and entertainment center. It took six years to build the 800,000 square foot property. 100,000 people visited the center the first day and I’m guessing that just as many were there on day two.

The development is multi-level streets covered by a massive glass dome. Not only does it look Back to the Future-ish but it is environmentally cool. Sections of the roof are covered with moss and heather to attempt to reduce the carbon footprint of Victoria Square. The covering soaks up the rainwater allowing it to evaporate naturally over time and not overload the drainage systems.

The anchor store is the UK’s largest House of Fraser. The department store is quite swanky. I had a grand time wandering through the store and trying on clothes. I was at the counter ready to pay for a wonderful outfit. I remembered at the very last second that the dollar/pound conversion rate was two to one. It was not a $400-cute outfit, I sweetly said thank you and raced out of the store.



I met up with my friends at the Kitchen Bar. The original pub opened in 1859 and was the favorite drinking spot for performers at the Empire, Belfast’s famous music hall. It moved from the original site to make way for the construction of Victoria Square. We sat in the bar, wait, now that I’m thinking of it the whole place was probably bar- anyway, there was a band. A loud cover band, too loud for the space. I had to resist the urge to reach over and turn down them down. As it turns out cover band set lists are universal. “Mustang Sally,” anyone? It was the one and only place that I’ve ever wanted to hear “Brown Eyed Girl,” after all the fabulous Van Morrison was born and raised in Belfast.

I’m so glad that I got to explore a little bit of Belfast. I can’t wait to go back.

Music shopping
Tower Records
Secret Book and Record Store
Dublin, Ireland
Sunday, March 9, 2008

In my pretend life I walk around the city, wandering in to record and book stores with no time constraints. In my real life I usually hit the ground running with too little sleep , looking longingly at Luna, Northside Newsstand, Vibes and Big Hat Books as I wiz by on my way to work, or what ever activity I have planned for the day.

I got to have a pretend life afternoon in Dublin. I walked around the city popping in to what ever shop caught my fancy. I was excited to stumble across a Tower Records. Ireland boasts two of the handful of Tower Records left in the world. All of the Tower Records in the States closed in 2006 (tower.com is still alive and well). I had a blast browsing the record stacks. I’d smile when I ran across a familiar name and stopped myself from shouting out, “hey she slept on my sofa, or woo hoo I wrote about him.”
In my black jeans, boots, messenger bag and camera slung over my shoulder, I convinced myself that I was one of the cool kids. I think I blew that when after an hour of wandering around the store I made my purchase: The Monkees- The Works, A 3 CD Retrospective.

After leaving Tower Records I wandered down side streets and saw a sign for Secret Book and Record Store. Thankfully there were plenty of signs and arrows. I’m not sure that I would have wandered down that street or down a narrow hallway through that mostly empty building otherwise. Secret Book and Record Store sounded like my kind of place. And was it ever. If I ever opened a book store I would look just like this. I left any hope of looking like one of the cool kids at the door, with my exclamation of “Wow, this place looks just like my house!” And it does. Bookcases along the wall, books on tables and stacked everywhere. Quirky artifacts lined the tops of the bookcases. Tons of CDs in the back corner. Since I felt like I was at home I tossed my junk in the corner and started digging. I wound up with three books and as many CDs. I thoroughly enjoyed every second that I spent in there.

Second Friday, Second Helpings
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Upper Room

This was the inaugural Second Friday, Second Helpings songwriter night. PJ Christie, Lance Drake and Chris Haskett kicked it off. They took turns playing three song sets, sometimes joining in on each other’s songs. They combined originals with quirky covers. I giggled out loud when Lance played an Echo and the Bunnymen song.

Lance and PJ clearly have a great camaraderie. They have played in bands together and know each other’s songs. Big fun. Lance is Chicago based and was down for the show. I first met PJ when he wandered by Kipp Normand’s yard sale. PJ and his family relocated to Indianapolis after Hurricane Katrina.

Chris Haskett is a CATH coffeehouse veteran. I really enjoy his solo songs; he’s got a wide range. I was secretly hoping he’d pull out his harmonium and I was not disappointed. I’m not quite sure how a harmonium works, but it involves bellows, a keyboard and a pretty cabinet. And Chris makes it sound real pretty.

Thanks to Chris, PJ and Lance for playing and Jeff Sample for hosting the event. Second Helpings collected 50 pounds of rice and pasta and over $40 in cash.

The next Second Friday, Second Helpings will be April 11 at the Upper Room. I will preview the show in the next issue of the Gazette.

www.myspace.com/chrishaskett
http://www.secondhelpings.org/
http://www.musicalfamilytree.com/


Jeff Black
House Concert
Saturday, March 16, 2008

Jeff Black warned us “this show moves real fast, so hang on.” Man was he right. He started out playing the piano and didn’t look back. Jeff has a very big and powerful sound- not your typical singer-songwriter. He filled the room. He also played harmonica, guitar and banjo.

He told a few stories between his songs, but his songs really were the story. You really felt like you had learned something by the end of one of his songs. I’m really glad that I had a chance to experience Jeff up close and personal.

http://www.jeffblack.com/

Previews:
A Keen Holiday
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Mugshots
6525 N. College Ave
9 pm, 21+


A Keen Holiday is a three-piece blues-rock band. They have been playing together for almost a year, and have released their first album a few months ago. Their sound is good old fashioned blues rock and roll. This show promises to be a good time.

www.myspace.com/akeenholiday.


Out and about: It’s almost Broad Ripple Farmers Market time again! The Market runs Saturday mornings, May 3 through October 25. Let me know if you’re interested in playing. queenbeenora@gmail.com

Dublin, Ireland Street Musicians

first published on nuvo.net:

The Temple Bar area (central Dublin, just south of the River Liffey) reminded me of a medieval Broad Ripple. It is chock-full of restaurants, pubs, galleries and music.

Click here to view photographs 0f street musicians.

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 6

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette:

Steve Poltz and the Cynics
The Truckee Brothers
February 25, 2008
Locals Only

I’m still on a Steve Poltz high, and not just because he kissed me from the stage when I leaned in for a photograph.

I always have a great time at Steve’s shows and feel inspired when I leave. He is a great songwriter and an amazing entertainer. He throws his all in to his performances- facial expressions and body contortions included. He’s gracious, funny and charming. Steve has such a loyal Indianapolis audience that I’m starting to recognize his fans and where they like to sit.

Another thing that Steve does consistently well is touring with other great musicians. I must say, I was initially disappointed when I heard that Steve was travelling with a band, Steve Poltz and the Cynics. Count me in the cynic group; I just couldn’t fathom how I would enjoy the show as much as I do when Steve plays solo. Boy was I wrong. But first Steve appeased us naysayers by starting out with a solo acoustic set.

I guess now is the point when I should admit to not taking notes during the show. I searched and searched for my little notebook before I left and could not find it (It later turned up in my bed). It didn’t occur to me to bring my computer or paper or even jot notes on a cocktail napkin. It was probably just as well; I was having too much damn fun. Maybe there is a correlation -- less writing, more concentrating on the music. Anyway, the whole point of that story is that I know he played a lot of his own great songs and did some quirky covers. The only cover song I can remember is TLC’s Chasing Waterfalls. And that might have been because of the aforementioned kiss. Just saying.

The Cynics joined Steve and I was charmed from the second the boys stepped on the stage. Actually I was pre-charmed, I heard a few songs of the opening band, The Truckee Brothers when I walked in. I enjoyed what I heard. And magically the Truckee Brothers turned in to The Cynics. They are fun as can be together, all playing off of each other marvelously. Chris played bass and guitar and Patrick played drums. They both sang harmonies. On occasion tour manager, Christopher was brought to the stage to play bass. They fit right in to the quirkiness of a Poltz show.


Sitting backstage (read the edge of the pool table) with the guys I pointed out the artwork on the wall. The very talented Cara Jean Wahlers had several pieces hanging. Patrick bought one right off of the wall. Patrick is an amazing artist, creating the album covers for the last two Steve Poltz CDs.
A seriously good time was had by all.

http://www.poltz.com/
http://www.truckeebrothers.com/
http://www.localsonlyindy.com/


Ireland
March 1-10

I had great intentions of writing about the music I saw in Ireland this week. I even took my notebook- and managed to return with it. I also took my beloved iBook and something jiggled loose and the airport is not working. Notice how calm I am? I’m hoping it is that simple, and they can do something magic at the Apple Store. A tree fell on my house while I was gone so I’m also with out Internet access at home. I’m writing this at Northside Newsstand, using my iPhone to look up Web sites and such. Newsstand Joe is going to do something mysterious to transmit this column. I think it involves squirrels. I’ll fill you in on the Ireland music next time.

I will leave you with a tantalizing tidbit: I traded a Hello Kitty Band-Aid for a great CD. More to come. Cheers.

Previews

Second Fridays for Second Helpings
The Upper Room (above the Broad Ripple Steakhouse)
Friday, March 14, 2008

From the Musical Family Tree Web site:

“Following the success of the Broad Ripple Fall Music Festival, a few of us put our heads together to try to see if we could create a series based on the kind of success we had combining music, raising money and awareness, and building new venues for music.

The Upper Room has been booking live music for some time. Jeff Sample has a long history in Indianapolis music both as a musician and songwriter, and through his bookings at Birdy’s – supporting original local music 300 days a year.

Second Helpings feeds the hungry and provides vocational opportunities in the community. Nora Spitznogle promotes original music tirelessly in Indianapolis by talking about music, going to shows, and writing for both Nuvo the Broad Ripple Gazette. She is well known in the songwriter scene since her booking and hotel services were the primary force behind CATH as a performance space.

Musical Family Tree is dedicated to building a community around Indiana music. Thousands of mp3’s are available from hundreds of bands and their work in the community promoting shows, releases and behind the scenes awareness for dozens of cultural efforts in the city and beyond.
So PJ Christie has been one of the driving forces behind the scenes on MFT since the beginning and has a long history promoting a dozen bands, songwriting and performing. The good people of Indianapolis have a lot to be thankful that these three individuals have come together to promote a monthly event called Second Fridays, Second Helpings at The Upper Room to benefit Second Helpings beginning March 13, 2008. Musical Family Tree is supporting the effort by providing access to the top performers in the area.

March 13 will feature PJ Christie, Lance Drake and Chris Haskett in a songwriter in the round type of event. Currently PJ can been seen playing bass for local favorites The Vulgar Boatmen while his own band is on hiatus. Lance is tearing up the Chicago scene in his acoustic quartet Deep Cricket Night. Chris plays with his new project, My Special Purpose and has joined Ben Justus as the drummer.

But all of them will come together to play new and old material and support each other in a once in a lifetime performance. Come out and be a part of it.”

Nora notes: I’m blushing as I read this - and honored to be tossed in the same group as Jeff and PJ. I hope to see you at the show. I’ll be there beaming- and collecting rice and pasta (we use 125 pounds a day!). Mark your calendars for second Friday for the rest of the year.

http://www.musicalfamilytree.com/
http://www.secondhelpings.org/

Second Friday, Second Helpings

From the Musical Family Tree site. Sign up for the social networking site while you're there. I love it!

Second Fridays, Second Helpings
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Upper Room (above the Broad Ripple Steakhouse)
10 pm. Donation (cash/pasta) to Second Helpings, please

Following the success of the Broad Ripple Fall Music Festival, a few of us put our heads together to try to see if we could create a series based on the kind of success we had combining music, raising money and awareness, and building new venues for music.

The Upper Room has been booking live original music for some time. Jeff Sample has a long history in Indianapolis music both as a musician and songwriter, and through his bookings at Birdy's - supporting original local music 300 days a year.

Second Helpings feeds the hungry and provides vocational opportunities in the community. Nora Spitznogle promotes original music tirelessly in Indianapolis by talking about music, going to shows, and writing for both Nuvo and the Broad Ripple Gazette. She is well-known in the songwriter scene since her booking and hotel services were the primary force behind CATH as a performance space.

Musical Family Tree is dedicated to building a community around Indiana music. Thousands of mp3's are available from hundreds of bands and their work in the community promoting shows, releases, and behind the scenes awareness for dozens of cultural efforts in the city and beyond.PJ Christie has been one of the driving forces behind the scenes on MFT since the beginning and has a long history promoting a dozen bands, songwriting and performing.

The good people in Indianapolis have a lot to be thankful that these three individuals have come together to promote a monthly event called Second Fridays, Second Helpings at The Upper Room to benefit Second Helpings beginning March 14, 2008. Muscial Family Tree is supporting the effort by providing access to the top performers in the area.

This night has been in the making for a couple months but unfortunately our busy schedules have not allowed for a proper kickoff meeting, so we are counting on all of you to help make this first event special. Come out for a night of good original music and bring a donation of food for Second Helpings.March 14 will feature PJ, Lance Drake and Chris Haskett in a songwriter in the round type of event.

The three of them played in the highly regarded band Baroo in Chicago from 1999 to 2001. Previously and since, they have all performed in a wide variety of bands. Currently PJ can be seen playing bass for local favorites The Vulgar Boatmen while his own band is on hiatus. Lance is tearing up the Chicago scene in his acoustic quartet Deep Cricket Night. Chris plays with his new project, My Special Purpose and has joined Ben Justus as the drummer.

But all of them will come together to play new and old material and support each other in a once in a lifetime performance. Come out and be a part of it! Many of you might want to be a part of future shows, let us know if you are interested!

Queen Bee in Barfly comix

(click on the comix to make it bigger)

The very talented Wayne Bertsch included the Queen Bee in his piece in this week's NUVO.
Thanks Wayne!

spud puppies

first published in NUVO

To read a bit about the Spud Puppies click here.

The amazing bluegrass band is playing a "Time and Space Hiatus" show Saturday (3/8/08) at Locals Only.

It was very difficult to squish over five years in to 300 words. 

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 5

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette:

Reviews:
Russel Settle’s 90th Birthday Party
Just Judy’s
Sunday, February 10, 2008

Wow! The Red Key’s Russel Settle turned 90 on Saint Valentine’s Day. His children threw him an early celebration at Red Key home away from home, Just Judy’s. The party was full of good wishes – Dan Wakefield sent his greeting via Jane Rulon, former Indiana Film Commissioner, cake, euchre and singing.

Besides the traditional “Happy Birthday” the room was full of singing – Karaoke style. I have an irrational fear of Karaoke. I’m afraid that somehow I’ll be dragged to the microphone. I am not a singer. In seventh grade almost all of the class tried out for the choir. Only two of us didn’t make the cut. I took that as a sign. A big fat sign that I was never to sing in public again.

Luckily there are lots of talented folks out there that are not afraid to stand up and entertain. There were two standouts, Ezra Todd Shelton and Linda Goeke. Ezra sings professionally, you’ve most likely heard him as part of the Bob and Tom band. Linda lends her considerable talents to local theatre production.

Please join me in wishing Russel a happy birthday; I’m honored to know him.



Charlie Smith Tribute
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The Jazz Kitchen

The Jazz Kitchen opened their door for a tribute to jazz musician Charlie Smith. Charlie died unexpectedly, of a heart attack on February 8. He was only 52. Charlie was a fixture on the Indianapolis jazz scene performing with Steve Allee, Frank Smith, the Indy Guitar Summit and his own group the Charlie Smith Project. Charlie's Smooth Jazz CD, "Absolutely," was selected as "Indianapolis' Best Smooth Jazz CD" of 1999 by NUVO Magazine. His second CD "On The Double" was released in 2005. Charlie was also well known for his work with the Bob & Tom Band. Charlie was long time member of the band.

Jamie Ridpath, LuAnn Lancton, Bill Lancton, Kristi Lee

The Tribute was amazing, every jazz musician I could think of was there. I got to hear Ezra Todd Shelton and the Bob and Tom Band perform a song about social activities in prison. Actually I hear him sing that song at Russel’s birthday party also. I can honestly say that I don’t think I’d ever hear “Prison Bitch’ performed live twice in two weeks.

The afternoon was amazing; I got to hear lots of great Charlie stories and some amazing music. Charlie Smith will be missed in the Indianapolis music community.


Previews:



Spud Puppies Hiatus Show
Saturday, March 8, 2008
9pm, 21 and over.
Locals Only
2449 E. 56th Street
317.255.4013

After five and a half years the Spud Puppies are hanging up the leash, at least for a bit.. The bluegrass band formed after the musicians worked a record for Greg Ziesemer and some front porch picking parties.

Greg Ziesemer is calling the gig a “time and space hiatus show. No tellin’ when we’ll do it again, but I’m sure it will happen sometime. We’re just going to give it a rest for a while, a long while. We all really still love each other. That’s a good way to go out, I think, on good terms, with a bang.”

Many of the band members count playing at the Magnolia Festival in Beanblossom and the Music Mill gig opening for Tony Rice and Peter Rowan as their favorite shows. The memory of Gary Wasson mooning Boyd Thaxton to defend the honor of Delmar Lincoln was mentioned by more than one band member. I didn’t ask the necessary questions to find out what prompted it.

Attend this show, you won’t be sorry!

www.spudpuppies.com


The 50 Years of Music Legends Tour
Friday, February 29, 2008
Mansion at Oak Hill
6:00 pm, $45.


What does the Number One Stage Show in Phoenix for 2007 and the Corner Wine Bar have in common? Pat Brunner! Pat is part of the Gateway Trio. The group played 25 shows in 26 days last February in Phoenix. This February they’re taking it a little easier, but they are taking advantage of the extra day to play a benefit for OASIS educational programming.

Gateway Trio is teaming up with the OASIS Time Steppers to present The 50 Years of Music Legends Tour. The Gateway Trio has been performing for more than 40 years. In the style of a classic folk trio, they play renditions of tunes, ranging from Broadway shows to the music of legendary artists like Rick Nelson, John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot and the Kingston Trio. Their knowledge of show-stopping tunes is seemingly endless!

What a great way to celebrate Leap Day! Tickets are available at the Glendale OASIS Center (6101 N. Keystone from 10:00- 3:00, M-F) or by calling 889-0267

http://www.gatewaytrio.com/
www.oasisnet.org/indianapolis

Soul Bus at the Slippery Noodle Inn

Here are photographs from Soul Bus show at the Slippery Noodle Inn last night.
I can't quite get the right setting for that light.

As always the band sounded great.

Doug Hoekstra at Lazy Daze 2-23-08

I wrote a preview for the Saturday, February 23, 2008 Doug Hoekstra show at Lazy Daze.

Here is the NUVO blurb.

I wish I could have printed a longer piece - I really enjoyed his answers to my questions, so much so that I purchased his book. I've only read the first story and I'm really digging it.

Here is the full interview, be sure to check out his Web site.
N.

Have you played Indianapolis before?
No, I’ve performed all over the U.S. and much of Europe, and I’ve passed through Indy many times going between my home of Nashville and my hometown of Chicago – but I’ve never played in your fine town. Looking forward to it!

Tell me about your new album:
Blooming Roses is my sixth cd of “new material” (there have been a couple live and “outtake” cds) and although artists always say this, I do feel it’s my strongest work yet. I tell people that it seems, as artists, we spend half our lives developing a style and then once we get to that place, we spend the rest of our lives trying to distance ourselves from it. Meaning, you want to build on what you’ve done and developed and retain elements of that, yet also stretch and take your music to new places. And, so I feel like “Blooming Roses” does this, it's rooted in whatever it is I do, and yet branches into new places too, and as a result, I’m very happy with it.

The CD was recorded primarily at True Tone Recording studios in Nashville, with David Henry producing (David Mead, Josh Rouse, Vienna Tang). David did an excellent job, producing, playing cello, and generally helping shape what I wanted to do. We also brought in a bevy of Nashville’s finest to help round out the sound and I think the CD is a nice blend of “band cuts” and more orchestral or layered pieces. I’d say the title track, “Blooming Roses” is a favorite of mine; a true story about people from different backgrounds coming together over stories of their children – nice Stax-band groove on that one. “Gavin Geist” has been a favorite of folks live – it’s a more acoustic song about a boy I went to school with who was an outsider, was bullied, struggled, and eventually became self-actualized, for lack of a better word. I’m also really fond of the “Everywhere is Somewhere,” the album’s closing track. I cut that at the end of a tour, in Stavanger, Norway at Out of Tunes Recording with members of Thomas Dybdahl’s band (Oyvind Berekvam, Eirik Lye) at the helm. We did it in a day at this studio just off the coast, with the sun blazing and the fjords shining in the distance and I think there’s a nice magic to that song.

What can people expect at your show?
Well, I’ll be playing solo, so you’ll get a variety of songs from my six-CD catalogue, you know, fast and slow, happy, sad. I’ll probably use loops on a couple things, blow a little harmonica, and tell a couple stories. Chances are I’ll also read a short selection from my “Bothering the Coffee Drinkers” book in the middle of the set. It’s a collection of music-related fictions that came out last year and won a Bronze Medal for Best Short Fiction, in the national Independent Publisher Awards. I’ve always written prose, as well as songs, and since the book came out, I’ve read from it live – folks generally dig it and the book reflects back on the music and vice-versa, to complete the picture of what I do. I really strive to make each show unique, so much of how I present the evening will depend on who’s there, how folks are feeling, what kind of connection we make. That’s the best part of playing live, really, each gig is its own separate entity, dependent on every circumstance and individual that contributes to making the night a good experience.

Anything would you like the fans of Indianapolis to know?
Just that I’m looking forward to coming to town and meeting all the good people supporting live music. Needless to say, we’ll have books and CDs for sale, as well, and lately at the live shows, I’ve been doing the Radiohead model – i.e., letting the audience “haggle” or price the product at whatever they think its worth. This has been an interesting and successful experiment – it seems it acts as another way to break down the barriers and allow the audience to take ownership. People rarely offer a price less than what I would ask for, but it helps everyone feel part of the process, it’s a cool thing.
Oh, and if you can slide the websites in the article, Nora, that’d be great – http://www.doughoekstra.com/, www.myspace.com/doughoekstra

Indianapolis Irish Aires

first published in NUVO. 

The Irish Aires are playing an Indy Folk Series show. 

Read all about it here. 

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 4

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Hunker On Down Monday
Cliff Snyder
Otto and The Gearheads
Cara and the Desperate Seekers
19Clark25
Monday, January 28, 2008
Birdy’s


Hunker On Down Monday’s happen last Monday of each month. They are hosted by 19Clark25 and feature different guest bands. I arrived just in time to hear Cliff Snyder’s last song – it sounded good!

Otto and The Gearheads were formed for a one-time battle of the bands gig. They haven’t looked back. Brothers Otto and Rapper, both of The Slammies are joined by drummer Corey Barnes. They are good old-fashioned fun - rockabilly surf-rock with a good dash of Otto’s “dipped in sexy butter” comedic flair. You can next catch the band at the Historic Melody Inn on February 15. Otto hosts a monthly comedy show and open stage the third Monday of every month also at the Melody Inn.

Susan and the Desperate Seekers were also conceived as a one-gig band. They formed for the Tonic Ball to perform on the Madonna stage. They are too good to quit playing together. Cara Jean Wahlers, Jon Martin and Gary Wasson sing beautifully together and are all talented musicians. They have a bluegrass-y, traditional country feel. And they are darn fun to watch.

The hosts of the evening, 19Clark25 also started as a just-play-once band. And that was three years ago. The talented Cara Wahlers did double duty also, playing bass for the band. They are jam-bandy, in a country sort-of way. Besides hosting the monthly showcase at Birdy’s, you can find them the second Thursday of the month at Locals Only.

www.birdyslive.com
www.myspace.com/carajeanwahlers
www.myspace.com/ottothecomic
www.myspace.com/19clark25

Emily Wood
Cliff Snyder
Friday, February 1, 2008
Indy Hostel

Remember the big snow storm that was predicted? The one that didn’t pan out? I’m not criticizing the weather folks- they were just following the fancy Dopler machines, and I’m not mad that we didn’t get storm. Anyway, parts of the country got socked in, including Boston where singer-songwriter Antje Duvekot was stranded. Host Robin Coleman called Cliff Snyder to fill in. He had a brand-new, just purchased that day guitar in his hands when she called- I don’t think she had to twist his arm too hard.

I’ve been remiss in not seeing either Emily Wood or Cliff play before (okay, I heard most of a Cliff song earlier in the week). I meet Emily on the set of The Gendercator, written by my writing workshop classmate, Catherine Crouch. The Gendercator is playing a several festivals this summer. I really just wanted to throw in that I took a writing workshop. At Butler. From the talented writer Dan Barden. Don’t blame Dan for the lack of skills that shine through in this column. He tried, he really did.

Anyway, back to the music. Emily and Cliff sat on stools, trading stories and songs. This is my very favorite way to hear music. Emily’s songs ran the gamut from “standard sad” to “happy songs.” Cliff songs ranged from “American commercialism” and “road songs.” They had a lively discussions centered around their songs.

I’ve been listening to Cliff’s new album, Fools Highway. He played the title song, telling us it was loosely based on a motorcycle trip to Arizona. I’m sure the missing his family part was real, but I don’t think he killed a man (and if he did- you didn’t hear it from me). Fools Highway is full of well written beautiful songs. It has become a staple in my CD player.

www.myspace.com/emwood414
www.myspace.com/cliffsnyder
www.indyhostel.us
www.segmentofsociety.com

Yats/Jazz Kitchen Marti Gras Party
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Jazz Kitchen

I seem to have a new habit for 2008, going to see music after I’m done with my Saturday night Red Key shift. When I arrived at 2:00 (yes in the morning) the music was over, but the party was still going. I was able to score some of that delicious Yats bread and an equally as yummy Jazz Kitchen whiskey. I got to chat with musicians dressed in their Marti Gras finery. Mike Wiltrout looked he was the Captain of Ship Impalas. Jamie Ridpath, Impalas singer had on scary cool eyelashes. Cynthia Layne was decked out in finery.

Jazz Kitchen sales manager, LuAnn Lancton (also looking Marti Gras hot) gave me a tour of the expanded Jazz Kitchen space. They have room for parties and meeting space. I don’t think the cage for dancing is staying.

I was glad to get there in time to say hello to the hosts Dave Allee and the always snazzy Joe Vuskovich. From what I could tell the party was a huge success. Laissez les bon temps rouler!

www.thejazzkitchen.com
www.yatscajuncreole.com
www.the-impalas.com
www.cynthialayne.com

Previews:

Father Stan Fortuna
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
6:30 and 8:30, $12, 21+
The Jazz Kitchen
5377 N. College
317.253.4900



This sounds like the perfect Lenten show. Fr. Fortuna has been playing music since he was given a red electric guitar for Christmas when he was in the second grade. His life long love of music is paired with his ministry. Fr. Fortuna is a Catholic priest, one of the eight original members of the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. The community was established in the Archdiocese of New York under John Cardinal O’Conner in 1987.

Fr. Stan studied with legendary jazz musician, Lennie Tristano, and still performs with his trio Scola Tristano in NY area clubs including the prestigious Birdland. He is making his Indy debut playing original material and classic jazz standards in Tristano's signature improvisational style. Fr. Stan is touring with veteran guitarist, Peter Prisco, and renowned percussionist Rickey 'Bongo' Carthen. Fr. Stan is internationally known for his music as well as for his powerful preaching. He travels extensively to preach the Gospel but resides in the South Bronx where he serves the poor and needy families.

This promises to be an excellent evening.


www.francescoproductions.com
www.thejazzkitchen.com

The 50 Years of Music Legends Tour
Friday, February 29, 2008
Mansion at Oak Hill
6:00 pm, $45.

What does the Number One Stage Show in Phoenix for 2007 and the Corner Wine Bar have in common? Pat Brunner! Pat is part of the Gateway Trio. The group played 25 shows in 26 days last February in Phoenix. This February they’re taking it a little easier, but they are taking advantage of the extra day to play a benefit for OASIS educational programming.

Gateway Trio is teaming up with the OASIS Time Steppers to present The 50 Years of Music Legends Tour. The Gateway Trio has been performing for more than 40 years. In the style of a classic folk trio, they play renditions of tunes, ranging from Broadway shows to the music of legendary artists like Rick Nelson, John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot and the Kingston Trio. Their knowledge of show-stopping tunes is seemingly endless!

What a great way to celebrate Leap Day! Tickets are available at the Glendale OASIS Center (6101 N. Keystone from 10:00- 3:00, M-F) or by calling 889-0267

www.gatewaytrio.com
www.oasisnet.org/indianapolis

Otis Gibbs -- Karluv Most

Happy Saint Valentine's Day.

Here is a beautiful Otis Gibbs waltz.

He wrote this after visiting the Charles Bridge in Prague on Saint Valentine's Day.

John Gorka at the Old Centrum

Here is a preview of the John Gorka show and a bit about the Old Centrum. The historic venue is closing at the end of March. The article was first published in NUVO.

National Road Montage

Clips from an upcoming National Road documentary.

Music by Greg Ziesemer and the Spud Puppies.

Catch the Spud Puppies last show- March 8 and Locals Only, Indianapolis

Broad Ripple Gazette, vol 5. no 3

originally published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Three Girls and Their Buddy
Emmylou Harris, Patty Griffin, Shawn Colvin and Buddy Miller
Friday, January 18, 2008
Clowes Hall

I have to go on record as saying this was one of my favorite shows, ever. As much as I love seeing music in my usual haunts, it was fun to have a grown-up experience. Real seats, people listening and a gorgeous venue. I’d written two preview pieces for NUVO, one on Buddy Miller and the other on Emmylou Harris’s influence on local musicians. I was prepared for the concert – and nervous as hell. Earlier that day, I found out that I would have a photographers press pass. I’d signed an agreement that I would only take photographs during the first three songs and not use my flash. I was convinced that I’d throw-up on Buddy Miller’s boots.

When I checked in at the box office they told me the photo release was faxed in too late. No pass. It was almost a relief. I’d already checked my camera a dozen times to make sure the flash was turned off and my hands were shaking. So it was probably just as well --especially when I saw the photographer from the Indianapolis Star and his giant camera and lenses. I did saunter in with my camera and was dying to take a picture from my seat, but I was on my best behavior. I was seated next to David Lindquist, the music writer from the Star. I joked that I was going to copy off of him, and then I felt guilty all night. I did learn a new trick from him-- your cell phone produces enough light to read by.

I’d been to last January’s songwriters show at Clowes featuring John Hiatt, Joe Ely, Guy Clark and Lyle Lovett. This show improved on that model, made all the better by the interaction between the musicians. Emmylou Harris, Patty Griffin, Shawn Colvin and Buddy Miller all have a long musical history together. Buddy tapped the young Shawn Colvin in 1980 to be part of his NYC band. He was Emmylou’s band leader in Spyboy and produced her live album by that name. Buddy toured with Patty and Emmylou as part of the Sweet Harmony Traveling Revue. The four of them joked about everything from rescuing cats to astrology.

The concert started promptly at 8:00, all of the musicians sitting in a row. Emmylou kicked off the show, “because I’m the oldest,” and they all took turns. No matter who was playing, at least one other musician was singing harmony or playing guitar.

I was the most surprised by Patty, and I knew the least about her. Her voice is strong, clear and beautiful. My favorite parts of the evening where when she was singing and everyone else joined in on harmony. They all sounded fabulous together. Patty said “this is just about the best tour I’ve ever done. It is fun each night and we never know what the others will do. Even the sound check is fun.”

Emmylou told us that she was worried about the people sitting in the middle, that they would have a hard time getting to the restroom. She suggested a group break, during one of Buddy’s songs. That brought one of the many rounds of laughter. The special effects were a hit also. Emmylou handled the light show and Shawn the flying monkey. They looked at the empty theatre during sound check and were convinced they couldn’t fill it. They marveled at the near sell-out 2100 strong crowd.
I was also surprised by how grown-up Shawn Colvin is. I don’t know why I pictured her as an old hippy. She told great stories about life as a folk musician – bars with the stage on the path to the restroom and falling asleep at her own gigs. “Look at us now.” Shawn said that “the sadder her songs are the better off I am.” She said her songs are heavy on the “theme of death and regret.” Emmylou chimed in and said she prefers “death and hope.”

Buddy Miller was amazing. He surrounded himself with six guitars and a guitar tech kept bringing him new ones. He played an electric guitar at times and it sounded beautiful. It’s hard to do in an acoustic setting and not sound obnoxious. Emmylou called Buddy “one of the best guitar players of all time.” He’s such a great player that I was convinced that I could walk up on the stage; pick up one of his guitars and play. You know, like when you’re watching Olympic ice skating and think you could lace on your skates and do a triple sau cow when in reality you can’t even do a somersault. Buddy’s voice is deep and gritty and a perfect compliment to the three women.

Buddy Miller (taken on the sly)

All and all it was a terrific evening, from the pre-concert lecture by David Lindquist to the post concert chatter with my dear cousin and aunt. This was a great start to the musical adventures of 2008. I can’t wait to see what the year brings.

Punk Rock Night 10 year anniversary party
The Melody Inn
Saturday, February 25, 2007

Technically it was Sunday (2:45 am) when I arrived at the historic Melody Inn. Punk Rock Night guru Greg Brenner called earlier in the evening asking about Second Helpings rescuing food after the party. I told him I’d swing by after my Red Key shift. I got there just in time to hear the last song of the evening. I’m sorry I didn’t catch their name, I enjoyed what I heard.

Nora Spitznogle and Greg Brenner

I got there just in time grab a last-call whiskey and catch up with some friends. Second Helpings got some much needed huge cans of tomato products (middle of the night food rescues are not the norm) and I got to hang with the cool kids for fifteen minutes. Here’s to another ten years of Punk Rock Nights.

Previews:

“Fast” John Scarborough benefit
Circle City Blues Band, 19Clark25 and other guests
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Birdy’s Bar and Grill
7:30, donation, 21+


Blues guitar player "Fast" John Scarborough (Circle City Blues Band) recently had reconstructive heart surgery and is currently in heart rehab. His band mates and friends are playing a benefit to help with his expenses while he's convalescing.

www.myspace.com/circlecitybluesband
http://www.birdyslive.com/

Tennessee WalkerSaturday,
February 2, 2008
D’Vine Wine Bar
5252 E 82nd Street

I have not been to D’Vine Wine Bar’s new location, but they’ve continued their commitment to live music. This will be the first time the acoustic duo Tennessee Walker (Krayg Bartley and Scott Manning) have played the wine bar. Band mate Krayg promises “an excellent time. We have been playing together in different bands for nearly six years but have been gigging as Tennessee Walker for just over a year. We play acoustic/rock music. Nothing fancy, just two guys bringing some thunder.” Sounds like the perfect thing to accompany the great food and wine.

http://www.dvineawinebar.com/
www.myspace.com/tennesseewalkerband

News:

Music Mill is now ages 18+ venue

The Music Mill announced that the concert venue is now open to ages 18 and over for all concerts. They built two eight-foot structures that surround the bars in the music hall to accommodate the change. All concert goers will be asked to present identification upon arrival. “This change allows concert goers ages 18 and up the ability to enjoy all of the shows that we present and experience our state-of-the-art facility despite not being 21 years old,” said Managing Partner, Nick Davidson. “This change also positions Music Mill as a more attractive option for touring artists seeking to reach college age concertgoers and the 18 to 21 age demographic.”

I think this is big news. As you all know many people are music fans before they turn 21. I’ve been encouraged by the excitement of the parents of teenagers about this news. Several called their kids after I told them the news.

Second Friday’s at the Upper Room

The Upper Room (above the Broad Ripple Steak House) is starting a songwriter’s series on the second Friday of each month. I’ll let you know when I know the line up.

Russel Settle’s 90th birthday, February 14

Russel will be celebrating his birthday at the Red Key on Valentine’s Day. You can catch him between 5:00 and 7:00.