Music First

Robyn Chrystyne just wants to play her music

Music First with Jennifer Scott
March 04, 2008

Robyn Chrystyne is a little girl with a big voice and big plans. Just barely 21, Robyn will pack up move to Nashville April 1 to find her fame and fortune like many before her.
Growing up in the tiny town of Elm, on the border of Hammonton and Atlantic County, Robyn was given her first guitar at the age of 8 so she could accompany herself.
“I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, since I started to talk” says Robyn. “I’ve always wanted to perform and sing my songs.”
Robyn’s parents, Barb and Stoney, have always been supportive, driving Robyn to gigs and venues since her first public appearance when she 11. They also home schooled Robyn so she could travel and perform. That’s quite a commitment for a busy family but not a hardship for this musical family.
Everyone in the family sings, just not on the big stage. Stoney, who gave Robyn her first guitar, has been known to “sit in” with Robyn every now and then and join her on stage.
Both of Robyn’s sisters act and model and one is married to the lead guitarist in Sara Evan’s band. Sara Evans is a very successful country singer in Nashville. This will help when Robyn hits the “Music City,” but she has the “chops” needed to compete with all of the other talent as well.
Robyn attempted to go to school to learn the business of music.
“I tried a semester at Camden County Community College, learning audio recording and sound engineering,” says Robyn, “but I just wanted to play my music.”
She’s already spent some time in Nashville, playing solo acoustic performances at Nashville Crossroads, Rippy’s and others in the heart of the historic city of music, as well as many gigs up and down the coast from Key West to Philadelphia’s World
Café Live, affiliated with WXPN in Philadelphia, well known for supporting independent music and artists.
Citing timeless female country singers as influences like Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Leeann Womack, and of course Sara Evans, and more recent bands like Sugarland with some good southern rock like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Robyn Chystyne has a big, unique sound all her own.
In 2002 Robyn won the local category at the Colgate Country Showdown at the venue in Camden, then known as the Tweeter Center. She came in third in the combined state level for Pennsylvania and New Jersey for that competition, pretty impressive for a 16 year old.
A busy young woman, Robyn has already recorded a self-titled DC with her own music. Playing acoustic guitar as her accompaniment, Robyn is involved with several bands where she plays an electric guitar occasionally, and always sings.
If you Google Robyn Chrystyne there are a full two pages devoted to Robyn, her own original songs, all of her competitions and accomplishments, her band, The Robyn Chrystyne Band and Bullzeye, another band she plays in as well as her duo with Tom Baz.
Robin plays Thursday nights at the Pica-a-lilli Inn in Shomong and regular gigs at Rack’s in Atco. She’ll play Levari’s American Grill in Upper Township on Sunday, March 15 for their St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
And then she’ll move on down the road to Nashville, where we will keep our eyes and ears peeled to see this very talented, young woman’s star rise.
“I want it all, to make it big and live my dream,” the young star says.
And we’ll say we “knew her when.”
Robyn’s blog, info and gigs can be seen at www.robynchrystyne.com. Robyn’s CD Robyn Chrystyne can be sampled at www.myspace.com/robynchrystynemyspace.


Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Living legend Paulie Teardrop strolls Caesars

Music First with Jennifer Scott
February 18, 2008

Paulie Teardrop, named the “Toast of Atlantic City” by radio host Joe Ranielli, has been performing in Atlantic City for years, a real legend right here in our own back yard. His storied career makes him one of the last of his kind.
Paulie “Teardrop” Ciaurella, and his brother, Tony, started making music in the early 1950s as the Teardrops. Born in East Harlem, they would pack up their instruments, and take their show on the road.
“I was about 15 and my brother Tony and I would take the train to Orchard Beach,” Paulie said. “I played guitar and Tony played accordion and we’d both sing and play until the police kicked us off the beach. Somehow it caused a commotion that they were not used to, but we loved it.”
The Teardrops became known for their Italian songs and show, unique to the era. From opening at New York’s Copacabana Club in 1953, to Las Vegas and ultimately Atlantic City, The Teardrops were a fixture. They recorded “Aunt Carmella’s Italian Favorites” for RCA and Laurie Records in 1961 and the rest, as they say, is history.
“Till” became a hit and the album was RCA’s top selling ethnic album that year. One million copies later, a gold record was presented to The Teardrops. The album is a mix of Italian songs and a little bit of comedy thrown in. Paulie’s “character,” Aunt Carmella, showed up on 500,000 Manhattan Soda six packs hawking the album. It had a tear off mail in coupon with a special “Manhattan Soda” discount, all for $5.98, areal 1960’s celebrity sponsorship.
Soon after, another album with Aunt Carmella, a.k.a. Paulie Teardrop, was recorded, “More Italian Favorites,” and the success continued. More high profile gigs and shows, over 20 albums, two Rolls Royces, pink Cadillacs, celebrity romances and the years pass in a whirlwind of lights and action.
Many things are evident as you walk into Paulie Teardrop’s home. The gold record for the Teardrop’s song “Till” is displayed proudly, along with “collectors” gold records by Elvis Presley, Tony Orlando, Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra. There are posters and programs with the Teardrops and other headliners. Autographed baseballs, vinyl records, videocassettes and books abound. There are walls of photos, many of them signed, by every known entertainer from the 1950s through the present, people and celebrities that The Teardrops shared the stage with or just came to enjoy their legendary show. All stars on the rise, all posing with their friends The Teardrops, Paulie and Tony. Sammy Davis Jr., Jimmy Durante, Red Buttons, Johnny Carson, Connie Francis, Tony Bennet, Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis, Dinah Washington, and so many more.
Paulie has an amazing memory for dates and many stories to go with the pictures.
“One of the proudest days of my life was on September 23, 1983 when I sang the National Anthem at Yankee Stadium,” he says as he points out a picture of two very young Yankees, Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin, at the Copa with their friends The Teardrops.
The stories include one about the Beatles,
“In 1963 while touring the Guild Company guitar shop, Paul McCartney saw the personalized ‘Paul’ rod cover on my guitar that was being built by Carolo Greco,” says Paulie. “He had to have it. So Carolo took it out and gave it to him. I got another, but I share more than a name with Mr. McCartney.”
The mate to that guitar, constructed of tiger spruce with inlaid ebony and pearl “teardrops” now resides in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. A recognized national treasure, the guitar is named “The Teardrop.”
Sadly, Tony passed away in the early 1980s, but Paulie Teardrop carried on.
“I moved to Atlantic City on June 13, 1984 to perform at Primavera Restaurant with Peter “Fingers” Girardi on accordion. I’ve been in Atlantic City ever since,” Paulie said. “I’ve been through all the changes, all the ups and downs. I had an offer in the 1990s to move to Las Vegas for double my salary, but Atlantic City is home. I couldn’t leave.”
Paulie Teardrop is the one of the last strolling musicians performing anywhere, certainly the last in Atlantic City. You can see this living legend as he strolls through Primavera in Caesars Casino singing and playing his Italian songs every Saturday night at from 7-11 p.m.
“I’ve performed every single New Year’s Eve for the last 58 years,” he says.
Truly, a legend.
Primavera Restaurant is located inside Caesars Casino, 2100 Pacific Ave., in Atlantic City. Call 800-223-7277 for more information.


Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Bluebone keeps the blue burnin’

Music First with Jennifer Scott
February 11, 2008

Bluebone’s tagline on their website is “Burnin’ Blues and Smokin’ Boogie” and that is exactly what they do on their new CD “Devil Keep Chewin’.” Known through out New Jersey and the Northeast, this solid blues/rock band has evolved over the years to settle into a trio for their fourth full-length cd.
“We resisted the urge to add personnel and other instruments to this recording. We wanted to be able to play these songs live, the way they sound on the CD. Adding others would have been fun and made a great recording, but at the end of the day, when we’re out at a gig, we want to sound like us,” says Jay Bethel, a founding member of Bluebone, on guitar and vocals.
With other members Van Burriss on bass and vocals and Thomas “Tee Jay” Jefferson on drums, the sound on the CD is full, tight and inspired. All of the songs on were written by Jay and Van with the exception of Sonny Boy Williamson’s, “Early In the Morning,” and they all stand up to the guitar driven, blues inspired reputation that the band has made for themselves over the years.
They did, however, call on one old friend to add his touch to “Devil Keep Chewin’.” Cape May’s George Mesterhazy sat in with the band for two cuts, a good old honky-tonk called “40 Years in Bars” and “Happy Damn Birthday.”
You’ll hear Rolling Stones influences on some of the songs like “Drownin’” and a surprising country influence on “Happy Damn Birthday.” All of the songs are well written and insightful with a guitar driven sound that burns.
Playing original music and finding supportive venues and gigs can be a long and winding road.
Says Bethel, “We’ve found the clubs and venues in this part of the world that seem to appreciate what we do. Between Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and here in New Jersey, our home, we keep busy and we get to do what we do.
“With Internet radio, we’re heard in South America, Europe and all over the world, it’s amazing,” he said. “The need to play venues that are not really musically driven, that want mostly covers or just some background music, is not necessary anymore for our music to be heard and enjoyed.”
For those of us on this side of the Atlantic, regular gigs are booked all over New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania. They are regulars in Cape May and can be seen at many festivals and larger events throughout the year.
“Devil Keep Chewin’” can be purchased on Bluebone’s website or CD “Baby,” or at any of their live gigs…gigs that will sound exactly like their rockin’, smokin’ CD, with some good solid jamming, of course.
Bluebone will be at L’s Restaurant & J Bone Tavern in Corbin City on Friday Feb. 20 at 8:30 p.m. L’s has a great dance floor, perfect to hear Bluebone’s new songs.
Go to www.bluebone.net for gigs and information.

Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Formica Bros. mixes bakery with a beat

Music First with Jennifer Scott
January 29, 2008

Some folks might think the new Tilton Road location of Formica Bros. Bakery is all about the bread and baked goods, but it’s really all about the music. Without a doubt, the bread, cannoli, pizza bread and assorted baked goods are delicious. The coffee, cappuccino and espresso are made the old fashioned way, and everything is made with love. But if you really take a good look and a good listen you’ll hear and see the love for music manifested in many ways.
John Sweeny, partner and brother in law of Frank Formica says, “When Bob Marley is playing in the background, somehow the bread comes out better. I don’t know if it’s the love in the air or in my hands as I’m working the dough, but it happens every time.”
This attitude extends to the employees as well.
“When we were interviewing for this location, we consciously chose those that were musicians or artists themselves. If our employees can find common ground with our customers and create a dialog, then some amazing conversations can take place and we all share in the big picture,” says John.
No expense was spared when choosing the sound system. A professional, state of the art system was chosen, complete with a 16 input stage board, six well placed speakers, wireless microphone and the ability to perfect the sound in any corner of the bakery.
“You can’t buy this kind of system at Best Buy,” says Frank proudly.
A musician at heart, Frank is often found in his Atlantic City office playing one of the three guitars he keeps on hand.
“I have many fond memories of Frank playing his guitar in that office,” says John. “He has been known to have random bouts of musical genius, but he would say he’s just a frustrated musician.” “It’s inspiration for me and a de-stressor,” explains Frank. “My children are the ones with the talent.”
His daughter Marie has recorded a CD and his son, Frank L., just accepted a chair in the Delaware County Orchestra playing concert bass.
The Formica family has been in the bakery business and in Atlantic City for a long time long enough to remember the “old days” of Atlantic City and the music that came about after hours in the smaller, lesser-known clubs.
“We’d see Billy Eckstine playing at 3 or 4 a.m., just jamming, at some little neighborhood club, after his big gig at one of the well known clubs,” remembers Frank.
A firm believer in the “old Atlantic City style,” Frank and John wanted not just a bakery, but also a gathering place that was exceptional.
“If you don’t have entertainment, it doesn’t seem like you’re doing anything above average,” says Frank. “There are so many talented musicians right here in our own back yard. Kenny Jeremiah from the Soul Survivors came by one night and Jimmy Yester from the Association lives locally. We wanted to create an atmosphere of support for our own, very talented local musicians.”
A cozy atmosphere, there is seating with a dozen or so tables, wireless internet, flat screens for TV or video (muted with closed captions), and of course music playing all the time on the fantastic sound system.
Every now and then Frank takes the stage with his guitar. He’s been known to take the wireless microphone and wander through the bakery, commenting, singing and greeting friends, old and new.
On the horizon is a removable stage, food themed evenings and more live music. For now the Cole Brothers are the house band on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Northfield and on Saturdays in Atlantic City, also 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
“We have people of all ages coming in to hear the Cole Brothers and they’re dancing,” says Frank. “We’ll hand out a tambourine, someone will grab the mic and it turns into an evening to remember.”
Kind of like those late nights back in the day, you never know who will drop by, but fun will be had by all.
Formica Bros. Bakery is located at 200 North Tilton Road in Northfield and 2310 Artic Ave. in Atlantic City. Both locations are open at 7a.m. daily. For more information, visit formicabrosbakery.com or call 646-6565.

Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Bay-Atlantic Symphony is secret no more

Music First with Jennifer Scott
January 21, 2008

The New Jersey Council on the Arts earlier this month awarded the Bay-Atlantic Symphony (BAS) the silver medal in their first “Olympics” of their People’s Choice Awards. Coming in second only to the New Jersey Symphony, which operates on a budget 30 times that of the BAS, they overtook their closest competition by a 64% margin, an impressive accomplishment. The People’s Choice Awards are based on popular vote, so it is clear that the BAS has many supporters and fans that already know about “the best kept secret in South Jersey.” Jed Gaylin, the director of music and conductor of the Bay-Atlantic Symphony, would love it if a new phrase was attached to the orchestra.
“I’d love it to be common knowledge,” says the conductor.
It seems Gaylin will get his wish soon enough.
With a full orchestra of 60 full-time, professional musicians, the BAS is busy year round and always preparing for their next performance. Named in 1993 orchestra in residence at the Stockton Performing Arts Center at the Richard Stockton College and in 1999 the resident symphony at the Guaracini Fine and Performing Arts Center where they practice, on the campus of Cumberland County College, a subscription series of five concerts is offered on both campuses. Also named as the orchestra in residence at the Cape May Music Festival, several summer performances in Avalon and a very successful fundraising concert held at the Borgata in Atlantic City, there are more than 20 opportunities for all South Jersey residents to experience a performance by the Bay Atlantic Symphony.
The Bay-Atlantic Symphony does so much more than play music, which contributes to their success. Passion is clearly evident when discussing the goals of the symphony with Paul Herron, executive director.
“We are the only symphony that has an organized outreach into our community for adults and children,” he said. “Our mission is to share and develop a love for transcendent, live, concert music in the southern New Jersey community through performance and education.”
With Paul Somers, director of education, the BAS’s objective is accomplished. Somers visits area libraries, schools and various community organizations, speaking weekly about the BAS and music education in general.
“It’s all about getting hooked into music together. Parents and kids, interested in building a culture that is electrified by the arts” said Gaylin.
Something that is unusual about the BAS is the accessibility of its conductor. Before each performance, Gaylin holds an informal talk about the upcoming piece.

“I’ll share the topography of the piece, a general gist of what’s going on and how it’s hitting me. The audience is included in that journey as well,” he said. “They might hear something that I don’t and we’ll discuss it. You end up in places you didn’t expect, because we all interact, the musicians, the audience, the soloists, making each performance personal and unique.”
There is also an opportunity to talk after the performance with Gaylin, as well as with the musicians, board of trustees, staff and other supporters during dinner with the maestro.
This weekend is the next in the concert series, described by Gaylin as “a steamy, spicy, fiery and really fun program.” Called “Phantoms and Fire,” the show is a combination of music by Spaniard Manuel de Falla, with a flamenco dancer and mezzo soprano, Fenlon Lamb. As always, tickets are also available to non-subscription holders and are reasonably priced for the whole family with discounts for seniors, children and students.

A nationally-recognized orchestra of professional, dedicated and experienced musicians, an internationally recognized music director and conductor, a mission of community outreach and education, and the bonus of multiple venue accessibility, adds up to the best symphony orchestra in South Jersey, a new, well deserved axiom for the Bay-Atlantic Symphony. At least that’s my vote.
Saturday’s Jan. 24 performance at Cumberland County College begins at 8 p.m.
Sunday’s Jan. 25 performance at Richard Stockton College begins at 4 p.m.
Pre-concert conversation with the maestro is held one hour prior to show for both performances.
All concert, lecture and performance calendar, dinner with the maestro, and ticket information is available at www.bayatlanticsymphony.org or by calling 856-451-1169.

Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Ernie’s Guitar Shop sees its share of restored glory

Music First with Jennifer Scott
January 07, 2008

The New Year can be a busy time at Ernie’s Guitar Shop on Route 40 just past Mays Landing. With the advent of New Year’s resolutions – and the cleaning of cluttered spaces – Ernie Trionfo sees many a loved but neglected guitar brought into his shop to be restored.
“People clean out their attics, basements and garages, and find their loved one’s guitar that has been sitting for years. It brings back memories they have of their uncle or mother or grandfather playing and singing, and they want it restored, either to play themselves or to keep in a place of honor, not the attic,” he says.
Trionfo, a musician himself, got into the guitar repair and restoration business by necessity, as a sideline.
“When my kids were young I started repairing guitars because I didn’t want to be on the road and I didn’t want to work outside of the music business, so it seemed a natural step,” says Trionfo. “With music being my first love, and the guitar my own instrument of choice, repair and restoration came naturally to me. Now, 30 years later, it’s my primary source of revenue and live performances are secondary.”
All music stores and shops have someone on staff for the minor repair or easy fix, but for complete disassembly and extensive moderation, or a partial or entire restoration, experience like Ernie’s is necessary. As the business evolved, it became clear that Ernie’s expertise was needed for many other instruments as well. The business now encompasses all fretted instruments, from all parts of the country, says Ernie.
“I have clients from the Midwest to Florida and locally, from Philadelphia to Atlantic City,” he continues. “I love the service I provide, there’s something very personal and rewarding in helping someone recall a happy memory and remember a loved one. I’m happy to be a part of that.”
With this age of “throwaway” and “newer is better” mentality, it’s good to see that the guitar hasn’t gone by the wayside.
“Maybe with the newer electronics for amps or keyboards that kind of mindset is a danger, but in 30 years I’ve only had a couple of people give up their family heirloom for something newer,” Trionfo says. “Time and again, they will pay more than it’s worth to have it repaired or restored, than to get something newer, brighter and shinier. Everyone wants Grandpa’s old banjo, or guitar or mandolin. It’s more than just an instrument, it’s a memory and a way to carry on a family tradition and their loved one’s music.”
When Ernie isn’t repairing or restoring, he’s playing his own guitar in the area. You can see Ernie as a duo with Patty Blee, a long time friend and another well-known local musician, in Atlantic City at the Forum Lounge in Caesars and the Showboat Lounge at the Showboat. In Atlantic County, Ernie’s Guitar and Repair, 903 Central Ave., is located just off Route 40 between Richland, Buena and Vineland. Technically Minotola, but close by for that “heirloom” from the attic.
Call 856-697-3324 for more information.

Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

The Beatles are yesterday and today at Tropicana

Music First with Jennifer Scott
December 22, 2008

Growing up on the tail end of the baby boom, my musical education included all of the timeless rock and roll innovators, but I was just a hair too young to experience them in their prime. I was 11 in 1969 during the Summer of Love and Woodstock. My first glimpse of Janis Joplin was on Ed Sullivan’s show, a Sunday night staple in our home, earlier that year. And I remember vividly, the first time I heard of the Beatles.
It was a warm Saturday evening in July of 1964, when Sandy, our babysitter came to our door with her transistor radio held up to her ear. No headphones or ear buds in those days, she was just thankful she had a “portable” transistor she could carry around. Sandy told me about the Beatles, a new group of “dreamy” boys from Liverpool, England and how their music was the latest thing. And then she held up the radio to my ear and let me hear their song, “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” It’s a musical moment for me that is frozen in time. Right up there with the first time I spoke into the microphone on the radio (so scary), and met my first gifted musician (Bonnie Raitt). I never got to see the Beatles on stage.
Fast forward to the present. My two sons are now in college and I continue their musical education as part of my parental obligation. They both know about the Rolling Stones, the Allman Brothers, Elvis, Stevie Wonder and of course the Beatles.
In our home, concert tickets are often given as gifts, and we try to go to at least one or two concerts together every year. This year we will go to see Yesterday – A Tribute to The Beatles at the Tropicana in Atlantic City.
The Tropicana has constructed the Liverpool Club to resemble The Cavern Club in Liverpool, England, where the Beatles began, a small, club-like theatre. The cast of four resemble John, Paul, George and Ringo, and re-create the live performances of the Beatles early appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show, Shea Stadium, and the Hollywood Bowl. Each song is performed live, with instruments. No voice tracking, lip-synching or canned music. The emotion is real; the performance is as much like the original as can be. All of the costumes and instruments are exact replicas of those used by the Beatles. Each song is sung in the original key, making it easy for the audience to sing along.
Don Bellezzo, who plays John Lennon every night in the show, created the show in January 1986 while he was a senior playing music in college.
“I was getting ready to graduate and wanted to specialize in something special, not top 40” said Don. “The Beatles were always one of my favorite groups of all time, along with the Everly Brothers, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. I had been told I looked and sounded like John Lennon, so the decision was easy.”
Don is the show’s creator, CEO and bandleader and has been successfully presenting his production around the world since 1986.
Just like any live show there is a lot of singing along and everyone knows the words to favorites like “She Loves You,” “Please. Please Me,” “Twist and Shout” and my favorite, “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” All the early hits are played and the crowd is all ages, and often multi-generational families. Yesterday–A Tribute to The Beatles reopens at the Tropicana on Dec. 27 and has been extended through March every Wednesday through Sunday evenings at 8:30 p.m. A special New Year’s Eve show has been added at 11 p.m. With tickets at $25 ($35 on New Year’s Eve) this show is a perfect holiday outing for the whole family, and a blast from the past that everyone will enjoy.
Log on to www.tropicana.net for ticket information. See more about the show at www.legendsofyesterday.com. 

Comments and suggestions are welcome at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.
 

Just in Case learns the ins and outs of band marketing

Music First with Jennifer Scott

Making music these days requires so much more than being blessed with the natural gift of a fine voice, ability to play an instrument or knack for writing a song. There’s also building and maintaining a website, being “social” on MySpace, Facebook and the like, designing and making merchandise like T-shirts, stickers, posters and more. And, networking and making the endless calls to venues, club owners, show producers, and anyone that supports original music, as well as recording and making the actual CD, packaging that CD, and building and maintaining an actual recording room. Easier now, than in days past, but still something that is required to succeed.
Brian Rash, of Upper Township, knows all the ins and outs of building a career in music and he’s still learning. With his band, Just In Case, Brian and his fellow band mates, Adam Bucciarelli and Casey Littlefield, have learned how to market themselves and continue to create the music they are inspired to play. Brian and Adam both have degrees in business and communications, respectively, with the intent of making music their life. Along with Casey, who has put in his own time in school, they all have learned to look for any opportunity to market, sell and cross promote their passion, all so they can get their music played and heard. Just In Case plays an original a mix of alternative/hard core rock, with the Brian on drums and vocals, Adam on lead vocals, guitar and saxophone, and Casey on bass, each contributing their vision and sound to each song. To get a gig or sell a CD of original music requires support from a venue, a fan base of listeners that will come to that gig and the ability to make enough money so that venue will commit to another gig where the CDs can be sold and the T-shirts can be bought. To put some gas in the van’s tank, or buy some more CDs to burn is a necessary goal. Always, a gig is an opportunity to play to a few new friends, a few new ears, hopefully another who is moved by something in the music, the lyrics, the beat or more.
“We’re selling our music, not ourselves” says Brian, admitting that all hands on deck are needed to accomplish the goal.
Just In Case has played up and down the east coast, with regular stops in Philadelphia and the tri state area to support their CD’s that are available on iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. Socially conscious and committed to giving back, the band will perform on Tuesday Dec. 23, at the Hard Rock Café in Atlantic City, supporting the Hard Rock’s Image Fund. With several other DJs and bands, Elsworth, Bono and Eye N See, Just In Case will raise money and awareness to fight world hunger. Tickets are $10 at the door with drink specials and doors prizes all night, all benefitting the Hard Rock Café’s Image Fund.
In addition to their work in Just In Case, Brian and his band mates are all inspired to work on other projects. A hip-hop project that Brian formed with Jon Priebs of Ocean City called Bossbeat/Shedstudios, just held a successful CD release party at the Inlet in Somers Point. Brian, and Jon, along with vocals by Kate Cronin and Said Moukhlis, play hip-hop, a completely different genre and type of music, appealing to a completely different crowd, still, marketing and promoting with everything they have.
“Real music for real people” says Jon. “We will definitely never stop making real music for real people until someone hears the sound to take us where we need to go.”
With a bottomless well of energy and passion to make music, they all participate, brain storming to come up with new ways to promote and get their vibe out. At the Inlet party everyone got the new CD, and anyone who presented a flyer (promoting the event) had $5 taken off of their $10 ticket price. This way the band knew if and where the flyers were working. Maybe the flyers needed to be in different places; maybe flyers weren’t needed at all.
Says, Brian, of all members of Just In Case and the Bossbeat/Shedstudio project, “We all agree, we will do whatever we need to do, make T-shirts, make phone calls, send emails, hang flyers, make the actual CD’s, create the artwork, move to another part of the country, anything we need to do, we are prepared to do, so we can share our music, and hopefully, make a difference.”
Just In Case performs at the Hard Rock Café on Tuesday Dec. 23, at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. Go to myspace.com/justincasenj for information. Bossbeat/Shedstudio CD and info can be found at myspace.com/bbssnj.

Comments and suggestions are welcome. Contact Jen Scott at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com.

Bubba Mac continues to perform at the Tiger Lilly Cafe in OC

Music First with Jennifer Scott

All Bubba ever wanted to do was play music. Growing up in suburban Maryland, some of his sweetest memories are playing music on the back porch with his brothers. He tried to recreate that “back porch” feeling with a little Naw’lins
flavor at his Bubba Mac Shack in Somers Point; a happy place where families of all ages spent many a summer evening eating, dancing and listening to live music.
So it is fitting that Bubba’s latest endeavor is a holiday show for the whole family on Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Tigerlilly, 805 E. Eighth Street in Ocean City. Starting at 7 p.m., the Bubba Mac Blues band will perform a special holiday show with all the tradition and back porch feeling that everyone has come to know as Bubba’s specialty. That Bubba looks quite a bit like Santa, is a Christmas bonus for the kids. Always a lover of good food, Bubba has included in the ticket price a buffet that includes turkey, ham and some Cajun food, (of course) and enough decadent desserts for everyone to feel guilty of “holiday” gluttony.
The Tigerlilly is a perfect venue for this family event, with enough room to dance and have fun for young and old. Situated one block from the beach in the Homestead Hotel on Eighth Street, each of the three rooms has a distinct and comfortable feel.
The Courtyard, where the Bubba Mac Blues Band will perform, is usually set up as a fine dining restaurant. A large room that in the summer, opens onto the sidewalk with French doors, potted palms and a dance floor, it seats up to 200 for weddings, private parties and special events. The Tigerlilly theatre is nestled in the back with a smaller, “club” feel. The theatre is a “black box” that is also used for musical and theatrical performances and can hold up to 200 people as well. The Tigerlilly Café is a 50-seat full service café and restaurant that is a sunny, warm place to stop for a quick coffee or bite to eat. Owned and operated by Donna Barbera, one of the vocalists in Bubba’s band, Donna opened the Tigerlilly in March 2008. With a vision that has evolved into a home for live music, theatre, special events and private parties, Donna never anticipated that she herself would be performing. That she gets to play music with her brother Doug Travis, who also is in Bubba’s band on piano and keyboards, is a gift.
“I had wanted to sing with Doug for a long time, but didn’t think it would happen like this” says Donna happily.
Others in Bubba’s band are Bob Kille on guitar, mandolin, violin and bass, Joe Fertsch on guitar, Jim McConnell on drums, Sark on harmonica, Lew London on guitar, Mike Conti on bass, Danny Eyer on guitar and also Richie Baker on guitar. Everyone sings. Everyone has fun. Just like Bubba’s back porch years ago.
Tickets for the Bubba Mac Blues Band holiday dinner and dance are $30 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. There will be dance lessons offered for all ages, also included with the buffet in the ticket price. Table reservations are available for parties of eight or more. Call 391-0200 or 314-8300 for tickets.
The Tigerlilly will begin hosting a Thursday night open mic night with Bubba and Friends and invited guests on Dec. 18, followed by dates Jan. 8 and 15. Go to www.bubbamac.com or www.tigerlillycafe.webs.com for information on upcoming shows.

Jennifer Scott can be e-mailed at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

From AC/DC to Spearhead

Music First with Jennifer Scott

I’m of a certain age where growing up (in the ’70s), concerts were It…the ultimate event. This past week I had two, with a few interesting observations and one life-changing decision from this weathered and experienced rocker.
I was invited to go to the AC/DC concert in Philadelphia. Now, I appreciate what AC/DC has done for rock and roll and still do. Their new album, “Black Ice,” their 16th studio album since their first, High Voltage in 1975, entered the Billboard charts in August at No. 1, no small feat. I’ve even met and had dinner with Brian Johnson during my radio years, but AC/DC is not so much my music. I wouldn’t actually buy a ticket, but was happy to lace up my dancing shoes and accompany my Emergency Contact (E.C., the new designation for “significant other”) to his show. Now, he was beside himself with excitement. In honor of the show he even dressed like Angus (some version of a “school boy” outfit), and posted pics on his Facebook page. He stopped short of actually wearing the outfit to the show, although most of his friends and family believed he had…and he hasn’t corrected any misconceptions. This is the person who rarely goes to any Philly shows with me because it’s too far, too late, etc. etc. etc., but AC/DC is an exception, and of course it’s easy to see why.
The crowd was all ages--my favorite kind. There’s nothing like seeing several generations rocking together. About half of the crowd was an inordinate number of young (under 12) kids with their very rock and roll parents. Lots of parents with their cups full of beer, cups that never went long before they were refilled, which led to some disappointing moments later on. Were the parents taking care of the kids or was it the other way around? It is our duty to turn a younger generation on to great music, classic music. But must we show them the outdated way to enjoy? Aren’t we past that?
The other half of the crowd was 40 to 50-something and mostly men, remembering their youth and rocking out! My E.C. included...he even lost his voice for three days. Lots of thinning hair, eye glasses, and “baby boomer” casual wear. Not too many wives or girlfriends, but enough so that it wasn’t a total testosterone fest. From the first screaming guitar note played by Angus Young and Brian Johnson’s first howl, the crowd was on their feet; Lots of singing and screaming along, fists in the air, and dancing. And we never sat down. Not until we were back in the car. When I awoke the next day, I wondered how many other 40- and 50-somethings had to crawl to the hot shower to relieve their aching back and sore feet just to get going. It’s a great moment when you can share some of the best live music with the next generation of rockers, but does it really have to hurt?
Two nights later I traveled to Washington, D.C., to see one of my favorite bands, Spearhead. Why travel to D.C. when I can see them in Philly? My never-ending dilemma, I have no one that will travel the 75 minutes to see a show, especially on a weeknight! How sad is that? Yes, I admit that 75 minutes sometimes feels like hours on the ride home to the shore, but what happened to that rock and roll attitude? My forever friend and concert buddy who lives in Maryland is always up for live music -- wherever, whenever, whomever – and she trusts my musical choices, being a true sista. Consequently, I see a lot of shows in our nation’s capital.
As I’m packing for my trip, I realize that I have to make a true life-changing decision: I have to give up my heels, my dancing shoes, because my body is just too sore from the AC/DC concert two nights earlier! This is a real moment for me, one that I struggle with, but the still aching body wins and I make the grown-up decision to pack my flat-soled, very un-rock and roll Uggs. Don’t get me wrong, I love my Uggs, but for a concert? I surrender to the decision and pack my dressier, short, fur-trimmed version in honor of the “event.”
It’s Wednesday night and the 9:30 Club is packed with an all ages, a sold-out crowd of sweaty people full of love and the spirit of Spearhead. While there are many my age, most of the crowd is younger, and there are a few young kids, children not more than 6 on their parents’ shoulders. I call this the “buttoned up, Washington D.C. crowd,” the young professionals that are a bit more conservative in their lifestyle but more idealistic in their beliefs. There are no bottomless beers in this crowd, still, the vibe is universal and love abounds. Michael Franti and his band have played for an unbelievable three hours and we were all on our feet for every single moment, our voices hoarse from singing every single word at the top of our lungs. Another night of dancing, singing and fist pumping for this sore, aching body. I pat myself on the back for my “grown-up” decision and am thankful for my comfy Uggs. After all, the music always comes first.

Jennifer Scott can be e-mailed at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.

Making rock music that’s truly inspired

Music First with Jennifer Scott

Inspiration. It comes to us in many ways, through all of our senses, in many different shapes, sizes, colors and styles.
Just like people. Music has the power to inspire, to heal; it can cross all boundaries, all cultures and philosophies. It’s truly the universal language.
If you have ever been in a crowd of thousands all singing along with that performer on stage, you know what it’s like to be inspired to wave your lighter, or now your cell phone in a mass united by the power of music. Suddenly there’s common ground with your neighbor and you smile together as you sing along.
Wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all could sing along? Couldn’t it?
This has always been my inspiration – from my 17 years playing music on the radio to booking live music at the Bubba Mac Shack, to being one of those singing along in the crowd.
From week to week here in this column, I’ll feature a person or band that is inspired to make, support or promote music in some way.
The business of music is always changing. If you have found the 400 music stations on the Internet, cable or satellite radio, or you just turn on your car radio, the original artist, the one sitting down to the keyboard or guitar with that song in her head and lyrics in his heart, needs support. Some of us know this. Most of us don’t, but most do know that somehow the promotion and recognition of music and the arts in our country has gone awry.
For most of us, we see and hear too much of the same 15 people or bands and not much at all of the independent artist traveling the country impassioned to play their music. And it all comes down to money -- loads of money. But that’s another story.
Hopefully with this new administration taking office in January, we will see more support for artists, music and the arts in general. It will require conscious decisions and responsibility on our part, but again, that’s another story that we will get to.
For now, we’ll look at local talent and how they’re inspired and impassioned to create, inspire and perform. South Jersey has many artists that have gone on to the “big” stage and we’ll catch up with them as well.
We’ll see barriers that have been crossed and stereotypes that have been broken, all with the power of music.
Which brings me to the best band I’ve seen in the last six months, truly inspired.
John Redding leads the band on keyboards and vocals with core players Peter Bariexca on bass, Bill McKenzie on lead electric guitar, Dave St. Dennis is on acoustic and electric guitar, Bill Bailey on drums and Elaine Stein on second keyboards. Sharon Whitaker, Sarah Snyder, Jennifer Williams, Melanie Kurtz and Nancy McGratten complete the vocals up front. At various times the band includes additional vocals, and players as needed.
Familiar rock influences are apparent. Dave Matthews comes to mind. U2. The Edge. Foo Fighters, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel and Genesis. As with most musicians in this part of the world, John, Peter, Bill and Dave have known each other and played music together over the years in different groups and configurations. Sharon, one of the women up front, and John are siblings, so they’ve been doing this for years and it shows.
All agree that each of their paths led them to this point together and recognize that this particular lineup is special. God is their inspiration and it is truly a combination of passion and inspiration to hear and be a part of their worship every week at Shore Fellowship Church in Egg Harbor Township. All of the three services are “shows” for God.
“Everything you thought you knew about ‘traditional’ music in church, you can to throw out the window,” said John Redding, director of music.
The stage is lit, the auditorium is dark, and the sound system is big. There’s a smoke machine. You can feel the drums. The lyrics come up on both of the huge video screens and the band plays for a good 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a good, solid, live music show, with a good, solid band that plays their hearts out every week praising God. Talk about inspiration.
Three times on Sunday, 8:30, 10 and 11:30, and the first Wednesday night of the month, John and the band inspire everyone to be a part of that mass of people, that crowd, singing together and coming together, all ages, all kinds, from all walks of life. A good way to start the week: Inspired.
You can see all schedules and info at www.shorefellowship.net. The church is located at 1049 Ocean Heights Ave. Egg Harbor Township.
Jennifer Scott can be e-mailed at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling (609) 624-8900, ext. 250.
 

How Atlantic Broadcasting Group started with a 10-year-old

November 24, 2008
Music First with Jennifer Scott

To say that Brett Denafo has a passion for radio is an understatement. Quite. From the time he was 10 years old and riding his bike from Ventnor to Atlantic City’s boardwalk to peer into the studio window of WAYV, Brett has always dreamed of owning his own radio station. And now he does. The ultimate “dream big” story. Maybe because his dream started at the early age of 10, he didn’t realize just how big that dream was.
“I would sneak out of the house and ride my bike to Chelsea and the Boardwalk in Atlantic City” remembers Brett. “I would stare into that studio window for hours and hours, watching the jocks play music and talk to their listeners. I hung around so much, Mike Ferriola, the station’s engineer, befriended me.”
Over the next few years Mike and Brett became friends. Mike showed Brett “inside” the world of radio. With Mike’s help and encouragement Brett becomes an intern—when he was 12. Still sneaking, but now it’s in the back door of the station. Brett turns 16 and finally, finally got his “break” and was given his own spot on the air. Now he was one of those jocks behind the glass.
“I was the king of the high school,” says Brett.
Paul Kelly was the music director at the time. “My first impression of Brett was that he was a real go-getter. His heart has always been in radio – that’s why when he told me he was going to put together a deal to buy these local stations, I knew he’d get it done.”
Brett works overnights, not making much money.
“Money never was the issue,” says Brett, but reality was, so in 1995 Brett got into the restaurant business, opening four Stewart’s Root Beer restaurants in Philadelphia, Northfield, the Ocean City boardwalk and Margate. From 2002 to 2006 Brett owned and operated all four restaurants, all the while still working part-time on air, but now for free. Fast forward to June 2007 when Brett hears that Access One Radio, the company that owns WMGM, WOND, WTKU and WJSE, is for sale. Just like that tenacious 10-year-old, Brett calls the broker to find out the details, and says “why not?” Lining up traditional financing doesn’t work. He loses the deal to another company in July 2007. That deal falls through. Realizing that he needs to “think outside the box,” Brett picks up a 5-year-old radio trade magazine “R & R” and calls a venture capital group listed in it. Brett’s idea is to bring the “local” back to local radio; not a mind-bending idea, but certainly not what radio had morphed into by 2007. Corporate radio likes everything to sound the same: generic, less personality, more liners, syndicated shows. Stewert Cahn, of Cahn Capitals, likes what he hears and adds his support. Local banker Reed Nylander of Sun Bank has never been involved in a media deal before, but also likes the “local” focus. In addition to the group of radio stations, the deal includes three properties, the existing building in Linwood, and two towers, one in Strathmere and one in Pleasantville. Real property is something the bank understands and Sun National bank makes a commitment to the project in February 2008. Northwood Investors commit to the project in March 2008. With all of the financing in place, Brett puts his team in place. Mike Ferriola, his old friend and mentor, has gained more valuable experience since he has acquired a radio station in Williamsport, Pa., while continuing to engineer the group of stations in Atlantic City. Paul Kelly has programmed WAYV for 12 years by now in Atlantic City. Mike and Paul agree to become a part of the team, as owners and executive managers and they sign a deal to operate the group under a licensed management agreement beginning June 1, 2008.
“Local, personality driven” radio is the focus, and the new team set about to hire familiar voices Dave and Jerry in the mornings on KOOL 98.3 – long-time favorites there. On The Shark 103.7, familiar “rock” jocks Barbara Larue signs on to host mid-days, with Rich DeSisto added as program director and afternoon drive host, and Kathy Coro goes on air on weekends. Scottie is hired back on 102.7 WJSE to do mornings with Joe “JoJo” Borsello, also the promotions director. WOND continues to dominate the AM airwaves with favorites Don Williams, Pinky Kravitz, and Barbara Altman. With Jackton T. Chase, Marlene Aqua, Joe Ciapana, all familiar voices already in place, marketing began in earnest. Local, long-time sales leader Keith Fader is consulted and brought into the mix. Billboards, new promotional vehicles, and remotes and appearances, are made a priority. Now, six months later, it’s all starting to show. Brett and his team have doubled their committed sales from this time last year. Their new Spanish format for WTAA, La Gran D 1490, is growing so fast they can’t keep up with the production of commercials. Mike Ferriola, director of engineering, has designed and completed the new studio for WJSE and he finally has each station sounding the way he likes.
Paul Kelly, operations manager, has fine-tuned the flavor of each station and is programming the music and personalities to fit the “local” goal. There soon will be some kind of show on WJSE for local bands and artists. The only show of its kind in the market.
Finally, on Oct. 15, 2008 the deal was finalized and 103.7 WMGM, 98.3 WTKU, 102.7 WJSE, 1400 WOND & 1490 WTAA legally became Atlantic Broadcasting Group, with Brett DeNafo as CEO and partner. Now when Brett wants to have some fun he goes into the KOOL 98.3 studio and sits in the chair as Brett Parker. Future plans for the KOOL studio include a window that can be viewed from the outside for any 10-year-old (and future business owner) to gaze into for hours and “dream big.”

Jennifer Scott can be e-mailed at jen.scott@catamaranmedia.com or you can comment on this story by calling 624-8900, ext. 250.