B'z Swarming New York City!

Takahiro “Tak” Matsumoto and Koshi Inaba of B'z

Impending B’z attack in inevitable and New York City is ready!  B’z are swarming New York City at the end of this month and the buzz is harder than their sting.  New Yorker’s will be introduced to Japan’s most precious national treasure, B’z.  Takahiro “Tak” Matsumoto and Koshi Inaba will finally take stage at Best Buy Theater in Ties Square for their first appearance ever in the Big Apple in front of a SOLD OUT audience.  Since 1988 B’z has rocked the planet over and over again in the group’s 25 year history.  Known as the Bon Jovi of the East, B’z will unleash and showcase their legendary rock show to an expected sold out house on Sunday September 30, 2012.  

The group has seen success beyond any group around the world and remains one of the greatest bands ever with a record breaking and truly astonishing 46 No. 1 singles, 24 No. 1 albums and more the 80 million records sold in Japan alone.  Their achievements, longevity, sound, and success speak for themselves and have been unchallenged and celebrated by many of today’s icons in music including Steve Vai, who promoted the B’z to plant their mark on the Guitar Center’s Hollywood Rockwalk in 2007.  With such unbelievable accomplishment of achievement you have to wonder why it took over 20 years to land their first ever New York City appearance now.

“I don't know exactly why it took so long, but I'm looking forward to performing there.” says Tak.  Koshi explains further, “When we started performing in the US, most of our dates were on the West coast. We weren’t familiar enough with NY to have a show there.”  The Japanese culture exemplifies professionalism and humility.  Both Tak and Koshi have supported each other throughout their music career.  From their own individual solo projects to a historic Jazz CD collaboration between Tak and Larry Carlton of Steely Dan benefitting those affected by the recent earthquakes in Japan.  “I’ve just released my latest solo album “Strings Of My Soul” from 335 Records. My solo album is basically instrumental, more bluesy and mellower than B'z. I hope you enjoy the melodies which were written by a Japanese blues man.”  Explains Tak.  B’z has over come all challenges and beaten all odds to become one of the most recognized bands in music history.  Their ability to think different and to challenge themselves individually as artists on all genres of music continues to connect the band with an even larger appreciation and acceptance by fans world wide.

Just when you think history can’t repeat itself and when you think you have seen everything success has to offer fate tosses you a curve ball.  B’z are coming to New York City for their first appearance ever and taking the stage for the first time must be adding more adrenalin and anticipation into the bodies and minds of not only to the fans but to Tak and Koshi as well.  “We would like to just do the best show we can in every city so there is really no difference. I think American audiences respond more directly than Japanese.” said Tak.  “It’s pure pleasure for me to put on a show and have people come to see it. The audience is very close in the US so I can hear their voices and see their facial expressions. It makes me very excited.” Koshi declares.

Tak continues, “We’re going to the East coast for the first time, but it’s the 4th tour in the US for B'z. I always love to play in the US, and I felt we should release English songs for the American audiences. The show will be a mix of both Japanese and English songs. We’re looking forward to the US audience hearing our new English songs. You might sweat a lot at our show, but you’ll enjoy it!”  Koshi says in support of Tak.  The show is just around the corner and playing a major New York City concert at a major New York City venue is a childhood dream to rock stars across the universe.  This is a city where dreams are born and where music artists take their biggest bows.  After the final strike of the guitar and the last hit of the drum one can only imagine what a veteran music group such as B’z will take away in memory.  “I don't know if my approach to creating music is going to change, but we plan on having an amazing show in New York City. says Tak.  Koshi teases, “I guess I’ll find out once we play there!”

Get ready New York City.  B’z are coming and you are about to witness music a cultural fusion of two cultures once separated by war now united in music to display one unprecedented performance for one night in the greatest city in the world.  B’z LIVE in New York City.

One Night Country Girl Stands Off Broadway

Rachel Potter CD Release Party
@ Joe's PubNYC - 5/13/12

Rachel Potter appears to have it all and is gearing up to be on top of the world.  Living out her actin dreams on Broadway Rachel is now playing the role as Mistress in the 2012 Broadway production of Evita starring Rickey Martin.  Rachel has seen incredible success as an actress, but you can't take the country music out of the girl.  Tonight the house lights dimmed down at Joe's Pub and Rachel Potter illuminated the intimate room with unprecedented musical harmonies, unbelievable cross genre covers, and plenty of real moments connecting the audience with stories about her own personal life challenges that gave her strength to achieve her dreams, all of which helped her to make tonight possible.  Joe's Pub became the place to be on this Mother's Day evening and there were many mothers attending tonight including Rachel's mother and Country music icon, Reba McEntire.

Rachel premiered her six track cd "Living the Dream" tonight which will be followed up by a full release to the world on iTunes this May and none of this would even have come to fruition if social networking sites didn't exist.  Kickstarter is great site where any music, film, literary and all other artists waiting their break sign up and advertise their creative projects in  order to raise funds donated by generous strangers.  Thanks to the Kickstarter community who did donate to Rachel's CD, she now stands on center stage sharing this new album with you.  Album credit also goes to her co-writer, Justin York, a Christian Rock guitarist and music writer from the Nashville area who matches and supports Rachel's music talents perfectly.  Together the two music artists collaborated their efforts and brought Rachel's vision to life and, in turn, expanding her from the Broadway stage and into the spotlight center stage here at Joe's Pub.

Rachel Potter CD Release Party @ Joe's PubNYC - 5/13/12

This New Orleanian was only three years old when she started singing solos for her biggest fans to date, her former rocker parents.  Rachel's Country music CD is filled with angelic melodies, luscious harmonies and a collaboration with new talent including that of New York City Cosmo-Country group, The Vanity Belles.  One track titled "September Song" reflects on dark times when substance abuse nearly took Rachel's father away from the family and innocence appeared lost over the daily challenges of living around him while he regained control over his addiction.  "Never Mind You" and "Just A Show" blast a "new one" into the rear of an ex-boyfriend, who had inspired Rachel to write two stellar heart break songs, and a very stern warning has gone out to the new Mr. Right at tonight's CD release party, "If you are thinking of cheating on me I will write about what a D***** bag you are, too."  

Rachel Potter and Constantine Maroulis
 Rachel Potter CD Release Party@ Joe's PubNYC - 5/13/12

Rachel burst out onto the stage to a loud reception from fans, friends, and her fellow Evita cast members.  It was a heart felt moment for everyone including Rachel who had to take a moment to digest this new rush of reality.  Her band made up of incredibly talented musicians included guitarist and Jersey Boy cast member Miles Aubrey.  Like Rachel, Aubrey traded his show guitar and strapped on his new Reeves Gabrels Reverend Signature 6-String electric guitar.  The opening song for the night "Crazy Dreams" by Carrie Underwood set the night ablaze.  The thirteen song set list included all six tracks from Rachel's new CD and many countrified covers of such as ABBA's "Dancing Queen", Maria Carey's "Dream Lover" and an even more sensational duet cover of The Civil War's "Barton Hallow" along with 2004 American Idol runner up, Constantine Maroulis.  Just when you thought the well was about to run dry Rachel showered the night with the sweetest color note harmonies along with Carrie Welling and Jesse Rae Waltz of The Vanity Belles.  The trio performed two enchanting cover songs, "Landslide" by Stevie Nicks and Taylor Swift's "Safe & Sound"both of which they made their own.

Rachel Potter and The Vanity Belles
Rachel Potter CD Release Party@ Joe's PubNYC - 5/13/12

Every great show must come to an end and this night did come to the end a thunderous standing ovation of encore and Rachel obliged.  "Hold Onto Me" closed out the night and closes out Rachel's new CD.  Three simple words, "Hold Onto Me" take new  meaning for both the audience and Rachel Potter who will hold onto each other as well as the memory from this historical CD release celebration.  By the reception and electricity that remained after the show Rachel will be held onto by her fans everywhere her music reaches.  A sold out show, a proud mother in the audience watching her daughter perform her most important solo performance to date, and Reba McEntire sitting down inches from the stage all make tonight a very special night to remember.  What is next on Rachel's music journey remains hidden for now as she continues her role in Evita on Broadway.  What has surfaced is one amazing CD that will undoubtedly launch this new Country music starlet on a music career path filled with the greatest success,  legendary collaborations with music icons, and love and support from her fans that will beat the test of time.  Put Rachel on your watch list because this little firecracker is just starting to heat up. 

Safety Suit Foots The Bill!

Dave Garofalo @ Hammerstein Ballroom NYC 5/1/12

Sometimes an opening band outshines and connects harder with an audience than the headliner and here is such a case where the element of surprise left the audience breathless beckoning for more music.  Safety Suit is now supporting the Daughtry 2012 “Break The Spell” tour concerts.  Safety Suit is the all American rock band you need watch out for as the up and coming music group for 2012 and on.  Safety Suit formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma now and now records in Nashville, Tennessee where they recently relocated their home base to.  The band is rapidly growing more famous by the show and raising eyebrows, as well as the performance bar for concert experiences.  

Their story begins in 2004 when the boys first formed under the name “Crew” and went through a minor trial and error period testing its original core members; Doug Brown (Vocals/Guitar/Dancer), Tate Cunningham (Drums), and Jeremey Henshaw (Bass Guitar/Vocals) on fusing their vision into sound.  Later that year the band approached, positioned, presented, listened to, and ended their guitarist discovery inviting Dave Garofalo to join them to cement the sound, energy and life now known as Safety Suit.

  

Doug Brown @ Hammerstein Ballroom NYC 5/1/12

Producer, Greg Archilla produced the band’s first four song EP called “Stay” leading to the band’s first real taste of success as a group.  Safety Suit was shortly offered a major deal designed by the Universal Music Group.  The band was set free to ravage a nation in need of music with substance and they were well prepared to make that happen.  Archilla would once again jump on board to produce the 2007 release of “Life Left to Go” which was received with great satisfying acceptance and appreciation by the Billboard Top “Heatseekers” chart.  

Fast forward to Sunday April 29, 2012 where Dave Garofalo sits across from the tour bus parked in front of the Palace Theater. “We have been working at this moment for over eight years now and we are finally seeing the impact that our band is making in music.  We really didn’t know what to expect of what effect and impact our music would have until our songs were placed on television.  Now we’re here in Albany, New York sharing the stage with Daughtry and supporting his tour and celebrating our latest album release "These Times."  An album think tank collaborative with members from Espionage who just help to produce the block buster "Hey Soul Sister" with Train.  Garofalo took in the moment and thought back to the group’s first television placement.  “TV placement is an amazing opportunity for any artist or group and it is still a crucial element for music artists just starting out.  The connections we made with new fans just in those placements were huge.  I still can’t believe this is really happening sometimes and I sometimes think I will wake up late for work to sell one of these.” Garofalo says smiling and holding up his new white iPhone 4S.  Safety Suit has been heating up ever since those placements and there has been no sign of a cold spell during their last two performances.

Doug Brown @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

The sold out Palace Theater filled quickly and the attendees sat as the lights went out.  Safety Suit’s set was all that separated the Daughtry fans now from seeing Daughtry live.  Cunningham walked out first in the shadow of blue light drawing attention with a twirling drumstick.  Garofalo runs out directly on a mission to hit his stage mark at center when a spotlight freezes him instantly in place.  Hunched over his guitar Garofalo repeatedly plays a three note guitar drone like an all out alert to brace yourself for something big that’s coming.  The Daughtry fans sat heeding this guitar alert and with a brilliant flash from the stage the audience exhaled wide eyed and mouths open as Brown and Henshaw blasted out jumping out from the stage wings.  Safety Suit opened the set like a violent storm of sound ravaging the Palace Theater audience whose delayed reaction appeared like a mass collection seeing the coming of the rapture.  The fever of excitement was spread instantly and the uproar of the audience was drowned out by the intoxicating sound of Safety Suit whose magnetic attraction with the audience moved all from observers to fans.

Tate Cunningham @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

By the time Brown reached the mic he appeared possessed by the holy ghost of music.  His wide eye jaw dropping delivery penetrated the the soul and you can't but accept the thrust of his vocal power.   Brown has a natural approach to delivering the best performance on vocals which was equally supported by the band members.  It’s his God given talent that is infectious enough to make the unbeliever a believer.  Safety Suit is the support act headliners fear and want to have at the same time because they are that good.  The members of Safety Suit each add their love and passion for making music constructed as one light, one sound, one musical movement.  Their synergy wraps around every seat in the house creating intermediary reciprocity kindred between music fans alike.

  

The set continued onward and Safety Suit nailed every song perfectly.  The energy pouring out from their songs such as "Never Stop", "These Times", and "Get Around This" reflect the challenges and tribulation a band faces under the rule of a dismantled music industry, but all roads lead to a promise land and Safety Suit knows that first hand with their most monumental performance to date.  This time that moment was revealed at The Hammerstein Ballroom Tuesday night in New York City where Safety Suit was showcased.  Brown delivered a rendition of Jeff Buckely’s “Hallelujah” which sent chills of enlightenment to all who attended.  "I have no idea who this band is or where they came from, but WOW.  I'm...wow...what can I say.  I'm a loss for words." explains David M. from Somers, NY.  " I can’t remember when I ever liked a support band this much or even cared to know who they are, but I am left amazed at the set I just heard. " David came to the show with his wife to see Daughtry and walked away a new fan of Safety Suit.  "I'm really happy I came and I will follow Safety Suit to see when I can see them next."

Jeremy Henshaw @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

Another Sarah J of South Florida said, "Every moment of this show kept me in suspense waiting on the edge of my seat to see what would happen next." she describes in her experience of Safety Suit’s set.  "There was not one single dull moment while they were on stage and when the lead singer (Doug Brown) found me in the crowd he grabbed my camera and took it on stage.  I was screaming in excitement as he took picture after picture of his bad mates and then one with me." Sarah speaking of Doug Brown's wild side to give his fans the ultimate experience of being living part of the show.

In Albany Doug climbed on top of the seats with a helmet cam strapped to his head and at Hammerstein he took a ride ride upon the shoulders of Daughtry's tour manager who carried the young singer around the general admission floor.  Safety Suit sends is a living example that when you unleash your inner child light illuminates from within you.  The band’s love and passion to play is evident and they continue to impress the music world on all levels.  Safety Suit revitalizes the music performance experience with exhilarated enthusiasm and they are worth more than the price of their admission.

Dave Garofalo @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

They will continue to tour as a support to Daughtry's "Break the Spell Tour."  You may even choose to follow current music purchasing trends by visiting Tunes to download your own copy of Safety Suit’s "These Times" onto your PC and mobile devices just like Emma Y. of Long Island did before leaving the venue.  "The line was too long and I'm downloading the tracks right now on my iPhone.  I love that I can discover new music live and walk away with their songs downloaded before I even leave the show.  I never did that before tonight and I was so impressed with Safety Suit that I needed to hear their music again." Emma says rushing for her train at Penn Station.  "I'm not sure when I will have the same impressions of a band to be this motivated to buy music on the spot.  Safety Suit..Wow."

Wow is the word of the day when describing Safety Suit and the fans will have to wait for what comes next from this group on the rise and with continued support, guidance, and solid efforts by the Safety Suit team this bands future could send this band on a journey of incredible success and a rich history to measure up to.  If these two shows testify to what is up next for the young group then be prepared because the best is yet to come.

Two Year Spell Broken: 3 Nights of Daughtry

Daughtry @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

Daughtry continues the 2012 tour at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods Resort Casino where a full house beat all odds incited by “Renegade,” a raw driven track recorded on the band’s third album release "Break The Spell". Any hesitation on whether or not this TV created rock star runner up could return after a two year hiatus was quickly snuffed out when Chris took center stage amidst the ignited audience.  Daughtry sang “Don’t you wanna feel like a rebel? Renegade on the run? Real live wire in the cross fire riding shotgun.”  Daughtry has made no deals with any Devil and he not sold his soul.  He just boldly challenges his doubters to call his success what they want with his own open invitation to feel out of control in their own unique ways singing “Here we go!” Here we go in deed, and with a wall of thunderous sound pushing the fans back the show kicked off illuminating hands reaching high and fans jumping out of their seats in a strident pace that even Bon Jovi would nod their approval to.

Daughtry @ Hammerstein NYC 5/1/12

Daughtry’s success from his days on American Idol continue to skyrocket upwards towards new levels of stardom.  His reception by fans is a seed grown from Chris’s ability to write a wide spectrum of people across an even wider generation gap.  It’s Chris’s dexterity and competence which keeps his potentiality as a promising music artist with a long career ahead possible. His family friendly shows draw people from all walks of life and they come simply because they connect to Daughtry and love his music.  That connection is cemented through Daughtry’s real life stories written in his songs about the daily struggles and curve balls that the harsh reality of everyday life can hurl.  Daughtry’s ability to remain openly honest with his music gives the audience what they seek, Hope in a world that appears to be falling apart at the seams.

Daughtry @ Palace Theater 4/29/12

The 2012 “Break The Spell” tour play list highlights the 2011 album release over two hour showcase.  Titles include “Spaceship”, “Outta My Head” and “Louder and Louder” as well as some previous hits such as “September” and “Over You” and two surprise toss in’s covers by Tom Petty and Billy Idol.  Chris connects with his audiences no matter where he plays with his stories and music.  One such story Daughtry told on Sunday’s stop at Albany’s Palace Theater spoke about Daughtry’s latest single “4 AM”.  “This is a track written for the 2012 Esquire Song Writer Contest which I took part in along with some incredible artists and it wasn’t contest really.  Chis said referring to his recent participation in the Esquire Song Writer contest.  Daughtry explained, “I was given the challenge along with the other music artists to write a song based on three words given to me by Esquire and the words they chose were “Pacific Standard Time”.  I don’t know anything about Pacific Standard Time and because I don’t live in that time zone I wasn’t sure what to write or how to even explain what is a Pacific Standard Time is anyway?”  Chris soloed his new track with his acoustic six string in an emotionally inspiring premiere.  The song about a boy missing his girlfriend separated by the distance of many time zones and the sadness of being apart was an instant hit for fans and proceeds from the sale of this track will benefit charity.

Daughtry Live @ Palace Theater Albany, NY 4/29/12

Each show is a milestone in Chris’s young evolving music career.  Dreams are meant to be broken and it wasn't so long ago when Chris was playing unknown bars with his prior bands.  He is a living example that forgotten dreams can surface at any time when great persistence and hard work prevail beyond uncertainty.  The proof is in the story where a young 26 year old Daughtry walks into a New York City office with nothing more than an acoustic guitar strapped to his side for the biggest showcase of his entire life.  A showcase with the Godfather of Jive Records, Clive Davis.  Chris's impersonation of Davis sounded like something out of The Sopranos, but the audience got the point and heard as close of a rendition on that fateful day of “Home”.  

Daughtry Hammerstein NYC 5/1/12

Tuesday night, Photos of family and yesterdays gone by projected on a massive screen were all the frills needed to dress the stage at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.  Once again fans warmly received Daughtry and his band were received with blaring shrills and deafening applause.  New York City was popping as Chris jumped from the stage to have some one on one time with his fans in the front row.  The playlist remained the same and had some fans who been following the group hoping to hear more Daughtry tracks such as Jennifer F, of Hartsdale, New York who spent the last week driving the last leg of the New England shows at MGM Grand, Palace Theater, and the Hammerstein Ballroom. “I want to know what a girl needs to do to get a little Tennessee and less Rebel Yell?” She says referencing song selections.  “I’m a huge Bon Jovi fan and it was in 2005 when I turned on American Idol and heard Chris singing "Wanted Dead Or Alive".  I was hooked and wanted to see more.”  Jennifer went on to showcase her new found love of Daughtry with her own personal stories which includes listening to all three Daughtry albums over and over again for almost a week straight just so she could sing with the Chris and his band.  “They remind me so much of Bon Jovi from even with the start of this show which reminds of how the Circle Tour opened (Bon Jovi’s 2010-2011 tour) and now Daughtry has a Keyboardist.  I really want to see what Daughtry does next to step away from the Bon Jovi image and to define his own.”

Josh Steely Rips Solo @ MGM Foxwoods 4/28/12

Daughtry’s 2012 “Break The Spell” tour continues to heat up as the scheduling for more dates build throughout the summer of this US tour.  He will be accompanied by Safety Suit who are equally fantastic and deserving of their own review which will come shortly and are officially on “band on the rise” list, but here it’s all about Daughtry.  Chris continues to defy the law of American Idol runner ups and winners by succeeding past the lack of faith some skeptics still may have of him.  The confidence gained from these three shows and with the shows to come are enough to provide certainty and assurance that he is not going anywhere any time soon thanks to the endowment that is created by his music.  If these three shows have any foreshadow of what is to come from Daughtry then get ready to put your AC on turbo mode because the Daughtry will be heating up at a show near you making this summer the hottest enough on record and like that Chris closed his sizzling performance in New York City show out with three of his own little words.  “It’s Not Over.”  

Fluffy Takes Mahattan By Cake!

All hail Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias who took New York City's Radio City Music Hall like El Kabong with an acoustic guitar. Radio City seats over six thousand people and is the icon of music venues around the world. Made famous by its annual presentation of the Christmas Spectacular and its famous dancing Radio City Rockettes, this venue is as holy of a music venue and experience as Chico's Tacos for Fluffy. Radio City Music Hall has showcased the biggest names in music such as Frank Sinatra, Carey Grant, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Bette Midler, and many more. This night the biggest part wasn't the name and not so much the size of the talent, physically, but the impact that one comedian's connection would be after working relentlessly to bring laughter to his fans.  Tonight Fluffy did just that delivering with enormous impact, his best show to date in front of the largest live audience at a sold out Radio City Music Hall.

The show opened with L.A. Based Latin Rockers, Ozomatli who pumped up the audience with Cumbia-esque beats and an unexpected cover of Depeche Mode's "Just Can't Get Enough". The notorious, and single, Martin Moreno hosted the evening introducing the touring comedians Shaun Latham, Rick Gutierrez and Alfred Robles who each fueled the audience with infectious comedy, but the night belonged to Gabriel Iglesias and after a fifteen minute intermission of comedy highlights from his Stand-Up Revolution TV Show (officially picked up for a second season on Comedy Central) the show theme song began to play with the audience in perfect sync singing "Hey! It's Fluffy!" 


The shock was evident from Gabriel who resembled a first grader about to perform "Twinkle, Twinkle" on a kindergarten stage. A GIANT smile, a major twinkle in his eye, and a deep breath was almost too much for Iglesias who had to take a moment to absorb where he was and what this performance truly meant for him.  There is NO doubt in my mind that his mind flashed back all the way to the beginning of his comedy/acting career in 2000 when Iglesias joined the cast of Nickelodeon's "All That." The sweat was instant, but the roaring acceptance by the Fluffy Fans (and I do mean other Fluffy Peeps) was enough for Gabriel to start the show. It was a monumental moment for both the audience and the comedians. Everyone became a part of history and I couldn't have been more thrilled. 


The comedy was ALL new unheard, uncharted, and virgin to the fans who attended. Iglesias has been described as unbelievably witty, electrifying, and clean. I don't agree. It's his ability to hook his audience with detailed story telling that relates to all people no matter their creed, color, or preference, BUT don't mix up your latin types because according to the comedy master a Puerto Rican is NOT the same as a Mexican and any error in judgement may result in a minor implemented injury by something sharp.  All kidding aside, this comedian's ability to wash away the differences of each person in exchange for the similarities that make us a family has empowered Iglesias to travel and share his comedy throughout the US and around the world including a very incredible performance in Iran (where Fluffy is number TWO on youtube.com). The story of that show is INCREDIBLE and you will have to attend to hear the details including who the number one comedian on youtube in Iran actually is.  I will give you a clue.  "Silence!  I Kill You!"

As the night came to a close, and Gabriel continued his stories you could sense the selfish desires from the fans for more time and more stories with Fluffy. This is when it hit me the hardest. Like every legendary music group, you MUST have an encore with your most popular songs. So, how does a comedian…let me rephrase that…how does a giant size comedian who is ready to dive into the thirty plus cakes waiting for him in the back that's being stared at and guarded by a "NOT STONED" comedian waiting for Iglesias to wrap up and finish his set? You perform and tell the popular stories. 


The audience did NOT miss a beat and Iglesias taunted the New York City Union Workers (IASTE Local One Mobsters) by unplugging his one stage timer sending the night into over time. Gabriel called out the audience for story requests and the feed back was LOUD and immediate. Stories such as "The Racist Basket," "Donkey," and "Making Cops Laugh," and it was in his final piece "New Car" where Gabriel's true and humble side almost left both audience and comedian in tears. The audience sang back loud enough to make the floor shake. I am sure, Martin Moreno was selfishly taking it all in backstage since the audience was yelling his name, but the moment paused Gabriel's story and the light that radiated from his energy said to me that whatever doubts he ever had about his career, whatever people ever said to possibly derail his ability to try, or whatever took place to challenge Gabriel to rethink his choice to perform comedy, it was all squashed tonight.

I don't know if Gabriel will ever read this or if this will ever make it to someone who has ever felt they weren't somebody with a purpose or a plan, but I want to formally be the first to say don't quit!  When life seems impossible and you are ready to give up, don't!  Pursue your dreams harder.  Welcome to the big leagues Gabriel!  Your performance at Radio City Music Hall left an audience seeing and believing in how one man who one day is a part time employee struggling to make ends meet at a cell phone store can find monumental success when he pursues his dreams and becomes a house hold name in comedy and you did it with the greatest reason of all.  You love to and remember that actors and musicians can have their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a few bucks, but not everyone can blow the roof off Radio City Music Hall.  Some people only win awards and don't truly connect with their fans, but Gabriel Iglesias has done both by earning the hearts of his fans.  Saturday night was sensational and almost too good to be true and the memories of this performance is one for the history books.  Nothing will take that Fully's success as a comedian…not even a missing video tape of his nude performance now floating around in some viral black hole.  Here's to Gabriel Iglesias, the man who can truly have his cake and eat it.

Parris In Spring

3/22/2012  - BB King Bar and Grill - New York, NY 

Gil Parris Strikes Back

Parris in spring heats up New York City at the BB King Bar and Grill with another knock out performance by the Gil Parris Band and special guests.  Parris comes fresh off of two all star performances from the Kitano Hotel’s “Jazz at Bar Lounge” where he and New York Yankee great, Bernie Williams painted the town with two sensational and unbelievable music sets early this month.  Both the BB King Marquee and Times Square shared one thing in common, Parris in spring has sprung up in New York City paved way by one super sizzling performance last night and I was there.  Let’s get down to the details shall we?

Matt King On Keys

“It’s been five years since I last headlined at BB’s and I recently played here a different times this year with the great Diane Schuur, Bobby Caldwell, and a special tribute show for the late Cornell Dupree.  I shared this stage here with Joe Cocker, Dr. John, and Paul Shaffer and other friends and talents over the years.  So much has happened for me musically since I last headlined here.”  Parris said just before taking the stage.  “I feel at home and I’m gearing up to book more shows here at BB’s more often.  The sound here is amazing and the performances are up close.” Gil added in as he walked up to the stage entrance. People still talk about Gil’s impact rendition of “Little Wing” at the Jimi Hendrix’s 69th Birthday Tribute celebration, where he, along with Larry Coryell, Leon Hendrix, Godfrey Townsend and other music legends, payed honor to a fallen musical icon.

Josh Dion & Joe Piteo

Kip Sophos brings a gritty and abrasive sound on bass, accompanied by Matt King on keyboard, Joe Piteo on drums and percussion, and New York City’s hidden treasure, Josh Dion featured on vocals, drums and percussion.  Parris naturally molds himself into any genre of music without effort and with remarkable success.  He surrounds himself with a kaleidoscope of music virtuosos in order to deliver, delight and fascinate his fans at each show he plays.  The scope of this show expanded beyond any other rock and blues fruition presented by the Gil Parris Band playlist that covered an astonishing arrangement of Jimi Hendrix’s “Crosstown Traffic”, Jeff Beck’s “Freeway Jam”, and The Meter’s “Crissy Strut”.

Williams Solo Stuns Parris

Surprise music guests included Gil’s Lazy Lounge Music Jam partner, Curtis Winchester on vocals, Andre Lassalle on guitar and long time friend, Bernie Williams.  38 year old Jennifer, from Somers, NY said, “We’ve been seeing Gil and Bernie a lot recently playing together outside of the weekly jams in White Plains.  You have to wonder if something bigger is evolving because each show they play the music is just getting tighter and tighter.  They have such incredible chemistry together and they support each other not just on guitar from what I see.”  Frank, of Mamaroneck, NY said, “This was some show.  From the start to the end.  It just shows you never know who you may see playing in New York City at any given time.  I walked in not knowing what to expect to hear with such a diverse and talented band and I’m walking away wishing to hear more.”  There will be more from Gil Parris and Bernie Williams, who are booking more dates around the New York City area.  Parris and Williams return to the Iridium, home of the late and great Les Paulin Time’s Square on May 5-6, 2012 at the and they are back for another two nights at the Kitano Hotel this coming September.  

Parris & Williams Exchange Guitar Riffs

I will also be watching very closely as Gil Parris and Bernie Williams continue to hit show after show out of the park, but tonight’s show was a long over due home coming celebration for Westchester’s very own Gil Parris.  “There are very few people I know who can jump from tour to tour, put out multiple albums in multiple genres, yet maintain one of the longest running music jams and play shows all in a year.  When does this guy ever sleep?” asked Ricki and Lisa of Tarrytown, NY.  My answer to your question is when Gil’s rose painted guitar is hung up, and he walks away to find a new adventure then maybe he will take a break to rest, but I don't think that is going to be anytime soon from what I just heard played live from BB King Bar and Grill tonight.

Hoppin at the Kitano!

The Kitano Hotel - New York, NY, Marc 2nd, 2012

Gil Parris and Thierry Arpino

Jazz at the Kitano is a warm restaurant and bar nestled on the second floor of the Kitano Hotel.  Views of Grand Central Terminal compliment a glowing Chrysler Building with sprinkles of racing headlights up and down Park Avenue.  The scene transitions from blaring car horns to a sultry saxophone solo, from loose change falling on the cold wet side walk to the taps of a high hat, from the rat race to foot bouncing tempos by each of the professional Jazz musician who stop in.  The Kitano is the most intimate hot spot to experience Jazz just inches away from some of the highest acclaimed Jazz musicians today.  Jazz at the Kitano is hosted by artist manager, Gino Moratti, welcoming visitors from around the world to have a truly rare music experience very up close and very personal.

Bernie Williams

This weekend Jazz at the Kitano welcomes Grammy Nominated Guitarist Gil Parris and New York Yankee Great Bernie Williams.  The two music all-stars friends are backed by world renown and award winning musicians Thierry Arpino on drums and Harvie S on stand up bass and electric bass.  This star studded mash up gears up tonight to color the night with awe inspiring sound that will be heard by the very few select who attend.  The music includes original music by both Gil Parris and Bernie Williams including a smooth rendition from the Fraiser TV theme song and a playfully sarcastic cover of “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat” ("Aristocats" - 1970 Walt Disney Production).  Bernie Williams and Gil Parris showcase their connection through unique guitar conversations with each song.  The spirited friendship between these two music artists is evident in their playful and sometimes comical stage antics.  Bernie Williams stumps Gil Parris with a minor solo in which Gil replies back with the "Charge" baseball riff opening the room up in laughter.  

Drummer - Thierry Arpino

“You never know what to expect when BW and I (Bernie and Gil) get together with an equally talented back line (Harvie S and Thierry).  We play every week at our jam in White Plains with amazing musicians and we meet more and more as each week.  Tonight and tomorrow night are rare.  Nights like tonight do not happen often when everybody is touring, in a recording session, or are tied up with other events.” Parris said during a sit down.  This coming from Gil's Parris's recent tours Bobby Caldwell.  “This year has been eclectic in my music career including the drop of a new album I recorded and co-wrote with a ferocious drummer/singer, Josh Dion and now I have two nights with my closest friends here Jazz at The Kitano, I'm having fun.”  Gil Parris is headlining at BB King's on March 22nd, but tonight is all about two friends sprightly teasing each other with each other's music.

Bernie and Gil Share A Laugh

If the sound check is a testimony what to expect from tonight you will participate in a savoir-faire of living breathing music provided by two men whose separate paths crossed one faithful night after a New York Yankee loss and a small White Plains music jam win.  “The transition from baseball to music wasn't a shocker, especially to my former teammates who I played for on bus rides between stadiums.  The Lazy Lounge Jam gave me a great relief from the pressures of playing major league baseball and no one treated me like a super star.  I was just another guy with a guitar playing the same notes as they were.  I miss baseball and my time as a Yankee, but I’m able to concentrate now on what I was dreaming about as a young boy in Puerto Rico.  I’m jamming and touring as a guitarist and my friends are here to back me as I continue to evolve my guitar skills and as I expand my knowledge about writing music.”  Williams explained in his hotel room.  “People know me as a New York Yankee first and that’s ok with me.  I have been blessed and fortunate with two highly successful careers that came to surface for me and they both brought me to this very night along with one of my closest friends on guitar.  How could I not admire Gil's fluid ability to play guitar?  After all he has his own Reverend signature guitar.

Bassist - Harvie S

Jazz at the Kitano has as much flavor coming from the music it highlights as it does coming from the menu it serves, but the house special tonight will be Gil Parris and Bernie Williams sharing the cozy corner under the spot lights, backlit by cityscape views, refreshed by fine wine and dining.  Gil and Bernie’s friendship and success is a living testimony just how two of the most unlikely pair can find each other at their highest peaks of success in their individual careers and yet arise even higher as a team.  No matter how big the stage or how large the audience, when the lights go up and the music starts up you are ushered to sit in on a music set where Williams and Parris connect, share, and passionately play aloud for the pure love and enjoyment of playing.  You can take part every Wednesday night with Gil Parris and Bernie Williams at the Lazy Lounge Jam in White Plains, but for tonight and tomorrow night the place to be for true Jazz enthusiasts is at Gino Moratti’s "Jazz at the Kitano."