Peaceful holiday weekend.

Well folks, where has December gone? As I grow older I realize how the term "time flies" is so very true. One day it's the 4th of July and the next is Christmas. I mean don't get me wrong, I've cherished each gingerbread man and peppermint stick...I've mixed and mingled. I've indulged in sweets and savory treats. I've stayed up late painting the town red. All the while...jingling all the way.

But with all this said..I'm ready for a weekend of peaceful holiday cheer. I'm one of those lucky few to be done shopping, all wrapped and shipped and now I get to enjoy the reason for the season.



A few things that are on my non-crazy holiday weekend MAY include...
- Wearing my "caterer-friend" hat and working a swanky holiday party with Cleveland's richy rich.

- An impromptu brunch with ELEVEN really great women.

- A sampling of fine cheese and wines at Baricelli Inn.

- If I realize I forgot someone on my list, maybe a stop into the Last Minute Market at the Lake Erie Screw Factory.

- Perhaps dinner "Christmas Story Style" at Touch...including Peking Duck.

- A bit of caroling with the Ohio City Singers at Happy Dog.

- Sunday jazz brunch with artists and friends at Flying Fig

- Maybe I'll even go see Santa to sit on his lap and let him know that for Christmas this year all I really want is a glittering of snow and peace of mind in the new year...okay, and maybe a sweater or two from J.Crew! :)

Happy holiday weekend to all and to all a good night.

E. Sharpe & M. Zeros (11/12)

Thursday, November 12th, 2009

So I hear this bizarre band one night on David Letterman...then a few weeks later their song "Home" appeared in the middle of "my" show, Gossip Girl...Looks like Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros are invading...and their coming to Kent State Folk Festival this week!



The Beachland Ballroom is cohosting this show along with Kent and this is what they said...

"This band features Alex Ebert, formerly of dance band Ima Robot, as "Edward Sharpe," who leads a pack of Los Angeles heads and hippies into acoustic pop territory. Yes, these dudes and dudettes are rolling with a stoned and bearded zeitgeist that to Cleveland-bred listeners, sound kinda like Mikey Machine fronting the Dreadful Yawns. The rest of you might think it's all a very Polyphonic Spree/Flaming Lips-style bowl of musical cherries, but one can't deny Sharpe's way with a hook. This feel-good fest also features Family of the Year, and the darkened musical visage of Clevelanders Unsparing Sea."

Tickets are only $12 and are going fast, to buy tickets visit kentstage.org/index.html

Money, Drawings & Bells (11/05)

Thursday, November 5th, 2009

Looking for some new music this week? Check out the following trio that will be performing this Thursday at Front Room Gallery

Helen Money is Alison Chesley, from Chicago. She played the Parish Hallin 2007. Her new album, "In Tune," is out now on Table of the Elements, and contains 9 tracks of dense and dark looped cello, including an instrumental cover of the Minutemen's "Political Song for Michael Jackson to Sing."



Technical Drawings (Pittsburgh) is a duo comprised of Melissa St. Pierre (prepared piano) and Jesse Stiles (real-time drum algorithms, electronics, DSP). St. Pierre and Stiles’ performances and recordings embody a diverse set of influences including neoclassicism, rock, gamelan, and electronica.

Like Bells is an instrumental drums, guitar, and violin trio from Oberlin who have a full-length LP out on Cleveland's Exit Stencil Recordings.

The show will kick at The Front Room Gallery at 9pm, $5 cover and BYOB

a Wicked weekend

Halloween is my favorite holiday! The warm colors, the spicy scents, the sassy costumes, the sugary sweets it all adds up to the celebration of fall. Plus we fall back so we get a bonus hour of sleep.



This weekend along with bobbin for apples see if you can squeeze any of these little treats to your weekend rundown...

- An “All You Can Eat Buffet”
- A Party with the Dead
- A little Coco before Chanel
- Hoops with the boys
- Being okay with Miss Michaelson

So Happy HAlloween to everyone in the "Land-of-Cleve," and might I warn you, don't come by my house without a costume or you won't get any candy. :)

Mr. J-Z (10/22)

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

Yeah I'm out that Brooklyn.
Now I'm down in Tribeca.
Right next to DeNiro
But I'll be hood forever
I'm the new Sinatra
And since I made it here
I can make it anywhere.

(Empire State Of Mind Lyrics, from "The Blueprint 3" album)



Grammy-winning rapper, and Beyonces hubbie, Jay-Z is booked for a concert at 7:30 THIS WEEK at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. Tickets run from $35 to $125. If you don't want to gamble with trying to scalp a pair, visit www.livenation.com

Free Orchestra (9/23)

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009

Did you read the Sunday Arts Section of yesterdays Plain Dealer? The article was about the upcoming season of the world renowned Cleveland Orchestra. They outlined-in detail the musical season and highlighted each of the violin performers, needless to day it was a musical masterpiece. Inspiring!

While I can't honestly say I get to attend the orchestra often...have always wanted too though. This year, I plan to get tickets to one of the Cleveland Institute of Musics concerts. Master students fully staged opera performances, recitals, and other events.

This weeks FREE concert will feature Carl Topilow as conductor and Meredith Clark on harp. They will be performing BERLIOZ Overture to Benvenuto Cellini, GINASTERA Harp Concerto, Op. 25 and DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 9, E minor, Op. 95 (“New World”) at CIM in Kulas Hall.



While most concerts are free, seating passes are distributed before selected concerts when capacity attendance is anticipated. Free seating passes must be reserved in advance of those concerts by calling the CIM Box Office at 216-791-5000, ext. 411. Passes must be picked up at the Box Office on the night of the concert, no later than 15 minutes prior to the start of the concert or they will be distributed to patrons waiting for seats.

I hope to be able to squeeze in a sonnet or two this fall. For additional concert information visit www.cim.edu

Hot Cha Cha (8/30)

Sunday, August 30th, 2009

HotChaCha started as a girl band on an early Friday morning in '07 at the West Side Market in Cleveland.

Mandy and Jovana were sipping on coffee and decided that due to Mandys’ brilliant guitar sound, and Jovanas’ outrageous stage presence, they had something HUGE going on. A few days later a local drummer, Lisa, was txt messaged to come and jam with the above mentioned broads.

For three months the girls consumed large amounts of beer, peed in the garbage can at the practice space, wrote music, and jammed. Finally, one night under the influence of large amounts of alcohol, they agreed to play their first show.



After they rocked, offended a bunch of people, and inspired everyone to cry, they realized how HUGE they could be. Another thing became apparent- they needed a bass player!

Local bass playing boys were all in their business trying to get in on the HotChaCha phenomena, but the girls were firm- they wanted a girl bass player. That night Heather saw the show and fell in love with the band. The next practice she joined HotChaCha and never left.

It is than, that HCC was truly created. Mandy, Lisa. Heather, and Jovi became one ultimate machine that will make you laugh, and cry all at once.

See the Hot Cha Chas THIS Sunday at the Grog Shop tickets are $6

Concert Wednesday (8/19)

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009

If you haven't been able to make any of the free shows the rock hall has been presenting this summer, this is your LAST CHANCE. This Wednesday, Youngstown’s Gil Mantera’s Party Dream will be playing with special guest, This is a Shakedown!



Gil Mantera’s Party Dream formed during a blizzard in 1999 as a joke, and by 2006 they were selling out shows across the country. In 2006, Village Voice honored them with the Best Show at the SXSW festival that year. They seem to like to wear crazy scantily clad costumes, wonder what Wednesday will bring?



This is a Shakedown!, although relatively new to the Cleveland music scene, is comprised of members of previously popular Northeast Ohio bands Dozen Dead Roses and Leo.

Each concert will be held outside on the Museum’s plaza. In case of bad weather, the shows will be moved indoors on the Main Stage. 6 pm www.rockhall.com

Heads Will Roll (7/28)

Tuesday, July 28th, 2009

Looking for an evening out to dance and scream your brains out? To wake up in the morning with a horse voice? To have the best pics on your ipod to share with your office-mates? The New York City-based indie band the Yeah Yeah Yeahs will be rolling into our town this Tuesday for their big Midwest debut at the House of Blues, you can't miss it.



The band consists of lead singer Karen O, drummer Brian Chase, and guitarist Nick Zinner. In 2000 they formed a trio, and were later joined by second guitarist Imaad Wasif in 2006 for touring purposes. According to an interview that aired during the ABC network's Live from Central Park SummerStage series, the band's name was taken from modern New York City vernacular.



Doors at 7pm, Show at 8:00pm tickets are $28.00
For ticket information visit www.houseofblues.com.

Peaches & Barbecue (7/23)

TODAY! July 23rd, 2009

Even though it's bit damp...put on your wellies, grab your unbrella and head over to the 3rd Annual, Blue Pike Farm Peach and Barbecue Festival.

Located at 900 E. 72nd St. location in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood the farm is the first farm started in Cleveland proper in the 21st Century. Dedicated to growing fresh products, using natural and sustainable agricultural practices.



Today's event will feature fresh peaches from Wolf Family Farms, BBQ by Wild Bill's championship BarBQ team, musical guests Squeal'n Like A Pig, a car & truck parade and special pastries by Lucy's Sweet Surrender.


4-7pm. Call 373-9461 for more info or visit www.localharvest.org/farms/M16461

Strings on Sunday (7/26)

Sunday, July 26th, 2009

This weekend they are calling for off and on showers. What better way to shield ourselves from the sprinkles than to head indoors to this years "String Spectacular" as part of the Cleveland Orchestras summer series.

Come hear over 100 of the country’s finest young string players performing all-time favorites such as Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings, Barber: Adagio for Strings and Vivaldi: “Spring” from The Four Seasons.



Severance Hall, 3pm, For tickets and more information visit www.clevelandorchestra.com

Day 'N Night (7/17)

Friday, July 17th, 2009

I don't know much about "Mr. Kid Kudi," but I do know that I think his song "Day N Night" is the BEST summer drive-fast-down-the-shoreway-tune! AND he is going to be in Cleveland in Concert THIS Friday night at the House of Blues.



"Kid," will be part of the Great Hangover Tour, tickets start at $28, show starts at 9pm.

Those Darlins (7/14)

Best of Nashville... "If history has taught us anything, it's that punk rock and old-time country music have more in common than anyone would have ever suspected.

Those Darlins are a pop group, if they are any one thing, which doesn't mean anybody with ears can't hear the country and rock 'n' roll in their sound and stance. Or maybe this trio of young women, who live a long stone's throw from Nashville, Tennessee in the college town of Murfreesboro, are punks straight out of London or Cleveland, 1977.



If you are interested in seeing the gals in action, buy your $7 ticket and meet us in the Beachland Ballroom Tavern Tuesday night. For tickets and directions visit www.beachlandballroom.com.

Josh Ritter (7/07)

TONIGHT, Tuesday July 6th, 2009

THIS JUST IN!!! (Thanks Miss Malbasa)

Musician Josh Ritter to rock out the Beachland this evening.



Check it out...looks good.

For details on how to get to Beachland or for ticket options visit www.beachlandballroom.com

No Doubt Monday (6/29)

Monday, June 29th, 2009.

No Doubt last made their Cleveland-rounds in 2004. Since then, singer Gwen Stefani aka "hollaback girl" has launched a successful solo career, while gracefully juggling two kids. Now that Stefani has reunited with her old bandmates, count on a fun evening of turn-of-the-millennium hits such as "Just a Girl" and "Hey Baby" when these effervescent pop enthusiasts headline a concert at 7:30 at Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls.



Paramore and Bedouin Soundclash open. Tickets are $10 (lawn seats till available)-$80 at the box office and Ticketmaster, or call 1.800.745.3000. www.ticketmaster.com

Diana meet Cleveland (6/30)

Tuesday, June 30th, 2009

International jazz superstar, Diana Krall is on tour to promote her 12th studio album, Quiet Nights. This tour marks the first time that Krall will perform tracks from the new album, for her fans. Celebrating this highly anticipated new release, Quiet Nights takes listeners on a romantic and intimate journey through the lush textures of her ballads and bossa novas. Even those already familiar with the breathy vocals and rhythmic lilt in Krall’s music – and there are millions – will be taken aback by just how far the music pushes, unabashedly, into the realm of sweet surrender.



Ticket Price Range: $10-75, to purchase tickets visit www.playhousesquare.com

The Wedding & Funeral Orchestra (6/15)

Monday, June 15, 2009 (TONIGHT!)

“Bregovic creates the most breathtaking music on this continent . . . intense, vigorous, colorful, passionate, exotic, fascinating.” –El Pais (Madrid)



The Sarajevo-born musical icon of the Balkans is best known in North America for his compositions written for the films of director Emir Kusturica (Underground, Time of the Gypsies). Bregovic has been likened to peers Ennio Morricone and Nino Rota, creating unforgettable scores that transcend their medium. Joined by his Wedding and Funeral Orchestra, featuring a Serbian gypsy band, a string ensemble, a men’s choir, and three Bulgarian singers, Bregovic marries the dance tunes of a raucous gypsy brass band with traditional Eastern European choral music—all with a rock and roll edge. Bregovic’s live concerts are an event, cathartic, delirious, and joyous. (PLUS, he drinks wine on stage)



$45, CMA members $43. 7:30 p.m.

Paper Route & Young Love (6/04)

Thursday, June 4th, 2009

At first this show jumped out at me because I saw the band "Paper Route" (crazy website!) last summer in Atlanta and really liked them. The young Nashville 4-some have a full ambient, sweet electronic sound soothing to the ear. They don’t exactly define the sound of their Tennessee city: “We tend to be the black sheep in Nashville,” programmer/keyboardist Chad Howat says, “but we love it here.” So needless to say, I wanted to see Paper Route again...I even have a t-shirt!



So...who was this band that "MY" Paper Route was opening for? "Young Love?" Come to find out....he is really great too. Sounds like the perfect summer music evening! The dance-rock outfit "Young Love" is headed by Dan Keyes. Keyes, who has assembled a band to tour with this summer, ultimately sees Young Love as a culmination of hard work, taking chances and allowing himself the chance to write the music that's been knocking around his head for years. Very electric, very catchy, very can't get out of your head!

"This record has been a long time coming," says Keyes, "These songs have existed with me for so long. I'm excited to get them out there. And I hope people get excited by them: I feel like I'm just the instrument to give the songs to everyone."



Check out video, it's funny, clever and charming. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kgokj9lAlU

Hope to see you at the Grogshop. Doors are at 9:00pm, Tickets are $10

Keyshia Xplosion (6/03)

Wednesday June 3rd, 2009

Join Z 107.9 (Blazin Hip Hop & R&B) as they CELEBRATE their 10th Anniversary "Xplosion" starring Keyshia Cole (You Complete Me!) with The Dream, Keri Hilson and Bobby V.



State Theatre, Tickets range from $40 to $60. I think this show will be outstanding!

French Brass (5/15)

Friday, May 15th, 2009

French fun invades the Beachland this week...Tarace Boulba (from France) is a brass band with thirty mouths and ten times more fingers and I hear they put on an amazing show.



Not only is it a spectacular musical experience, it’s also an association called Rasta Baboul, which was formed under French law 1901, and offers musicians an opportunity to hone their craft, play on stage, and generally progress musically and contribute their talent to a collective vibe

$10.00 Beachland Ballroom | All Ages

French Music Fest (4/17)

Friday, April 17th, 2008

If you wish to spend an evening with a cup of espresso (or Brooklyn Ale) and some European tunes, put this event on your weekend to-do list. Bella Dubby Cafe will welcome a group of musicians from France and Switzerland to fill the coffee shop with music from across the pond. Some electronic, some french-punk and a bit of "noise" to get the party started.

Tamagawa - France (Abstract musik between earth, spacemen 3 and velvet underground.)

B°tong - Switzerland (Electroni-k between throbbing gristle and lustmord.)

Oldine - Paris (Ambient rock between brian eno and sonik boom.)

Shit - France (D.I.Y. noise between bastard noise or sunn. Singer in cult band Vomit For Breakfast.)



Drawing of Oldine by Martina (from Hamburg)

For directions to Bella Dubby visit www.myspace.com/beladubby

Chairlift (3/13)

Friday, March 13th, 2009

"I tried to do handstands for you, I tried to do headstands for you, Everytime I fell on you, yeah everytime I fell. I tried to do handstands for you, But everytime I fell for you, I'm permanently black and blue, permanently blue for you." -Chairlift



Anybody with a TV knows the spot: a female voice sings “I tried to do handstands for you” over synths and an electro-indie beat, while multi-colored iPod Nanos tumble across the screen.

The song is “Bruises” from Brooklyn trio Chairlift’s debut album, “Does You Inspire You.” The voice is Chairlift singer and co-songwriter Caroline Polachek’s; backing comes courtesy Aaron Pfenning, who co-writes and plays synths and guitar, and drummer-producer Patrick Wimberly. According to group lore, the three met while attending the University of Colorado in Boulder and ended up hanging out a lot in a mostly deserted, possibly haunted jazz bar. After late nights spent watching Wimberly drum at the spooky watering hole, Pfenning would show Polachek to the shed behind his house where they’d loosely collaborate on making “music for haunted houses.”

The pair eventually took some songs Pfenning had been working on for a solo project and combined them with aspects of the fright-night electro they’d been creating in the shed. Somewhere in the process, they also moved to Brooklyn and reunited with Wimberly, adding him to the Chairlift lineup. It all resulted in iPod commercial soundtrack gold.



Don't miss these three live at the Grog Shop (www.grogshop.gs) in Cleveland Heights. For more Chairlift tunes visit www.chairliftmusic.com (a "video feast!")3/13)

Missy Higgins (3/10)

Tuesday, March 10th, 2009

"Passionate and sincere, Australian singer-songwriter Missy Higgins is a welcome relief in a music landscape littered with disposable pop. The 24-year-old Melbourne native has enjoyed phenomenal success in her homeland, and a growing fanbase in the U.S.,in spite of — or perhaps because she shuns the usual synthetic packaging and tabloid tackiness. Instead she's adopted a more timeless approach, relying on her undeniable songs and unforgettable live performances to forge a genuine connection with her audience." -someone wrote this on her site (and I thought it summed her up best)



For tickets visit the House of Blues Cleveland. For more information on Missy check out her well designed site at www.missyhiggins.com

Meiko (3/06)

Friday, March 6th, 2009



Enjoy an evening at the historic Kent Stage with Meiko (www.myspace.com/meiko) who will open for Joshua Radin (who's music is featured on Scrubs, Brothers and Sisters, Grey's Anatomy and One Tree Hill).

8pm. For directions and tickets visit www.kentstage.org

Tokyo Police Club Concert (3/01)

Sunday, March 1st, 2009

Don't miss Toronto's quirky, high-energy indie rockers Tokyo Police Club as they perform at the Grog.



Featuring vocalist/bassist Dave Monks, keyboardist/vocalist Graham Wright, guitarist/percussionist Josh Hook, and drummer/percussionist Greg Alsop. The band formed in the wake of the breakup of the foursome's previous project; after a few months of not making music together, they regrouped as Tokyo Police Club in 2005. They began performing live that summer, and that fall they played the Montreal Pop Festival, where the group's rousing reception convinced them to make Tokyo Police Club a full-time venture.



Monks quit school, and early in 2006 the band signed with local label Paperbag Records and began recording their debut EP, A Lesson in Crime, which was released that spring. Buoyed by blog and MySpace buzz, Tokyo Police Club embarked on their largest tour yet that fall. Around the same time, A Lesson in Crime was re-released with wider distribution, and 2008 saw the release of the band's full-length debut, Elephant Shell.

For sow information visit www.grogshop.gs

Ben Taylor (2/05)

Thursday, February 5th, 2009

The Beachland Ballroom presents Mr. Benjamin Taylor, get you show tickets today!

As the son of James Taylor and Carly Simon, Ben Taylor was born into a musical world with much promise. His older sister, Sally Taylor, found her niche in the industry early on, but the younger Taylor never sought to follow the footsteps of his famous parents. His childhood might have been surrounded by recording sessions and tours across the world, but initially it wasn't in Taylor's mind to become a singer.



Taylor was raised in Manhattan and spent time in private schools before leaving them behind in ninth grade. By now, he'd taught himself how to play guitar, but traveling the world and connecting with nature was Taylor's passion. Trips across Asia and Europe opened Taylor's eyes to Earth's greatest features, leaving him to think he'd might like to be a gardener or a farmer. Still, he had his hand in a few musical makings. Before he turned 20, Taylor's cover of the Beatles' "I Will" landed on the soundtrack to a domestic comedy featuring Paul Reiser, Bye Bye, Love. He eventually recorded an album for Epic's label The Work Group, but it folded shortly after Taylor inked his contract. He was left feeling disenchanted, unaware what he was supposed to do with his life because he still wasn't convinced music was for him. Taylor would soon come to realize that music was the only career he'd understand.

For $13 show tickets visit www.beachlandballroom.com

FREE Herzig! (1/31)

Saturday, January 31st, 2009

Nesteled in the basement of a small Brooklyn bar I was one of the lucky few to experience the soulful music of Ms. Katie Herzig. Her music though light was filled with rich vocals and lovely lyrics. It made me want to jump on stage and sing a long...I resisted!

Good news, NEXT Saturday night Katie and friends will be in concert along with Matt Nathanson at Kulas Auditorium on the campus of John Carroll University. If you want to get a taste for her music visit www.noisetrade.com or check out her site at www.katieherzig.com



See you there! :) 8pm. FREE!

Vocal Powerhouse (1/24)

Saturday, January 24th, 2009

A few years ago I discovered the most intense set of vocal chords I have EVER heard. A thin, long haired girl stood on the set of "Love, Janis" belting out the infamous tunes and life-story of Ms. Janis Joplin. I still can hear her hypnotizing the crowd with her hit, "Piece of My Heart." It was a memorable show.

So, if you missed the performance you can still catch this outstanding perfomer...Mary Bridget Davies (www.marybridgetdavies.com) live at Brothers Lounge this Saturday night, 9:30pm.



Mary made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award nominated musical "It Ain't Nothin' but the Blues" ; was Recipient of the BEST VOCALIST AWARD by the Cleveland Free Times ; an International Blues Challenge Finalist in 2005 ; Won award for BEST MOMENT IN THEATRE 2007 by the Kansas City Pitch for her role as Janis Joplin in the Off-Broadway smash musical, "Love, Janis".

For directions and ore infomation visit www.brotherslounge.com

Lunch concert (12/17)

Wednesday, December 17th, 2008

Trinity Cathedral is probably best known for their Brownbag Concerts presented by the Music & Performing Arts Department (involved in several initiatives and ongoing projects that further their mission to "build community and enhance the quality of life in Cleveland through the arts.")

This Wednesday pack your lunch, pick up Subway or purchase one of the $5 lunches provided at the Cathedral. Then find a seat and spend an hour enjoying the music of the Chamber Orchestra & Chamber Choir.



12-1pm. Free parking in the Trinity Commons lot off Prospect Avenue. For more information visit www.mandpa.org/index.html

The return of Return of Simple (12/05)

Friday, December 5th, 2008

One of my most favorite local bands, Return of Simple will be performing this Friday. With the addition of their newest member, justin–the drummer, their show should be fantastic, I hear he is very talented.



The guitarist (Gary) resembles a Picasso painting live and in person, check it out! (Thanks Jileen!) you don't want to miss this unique sound. My favorite tune is their albums cover song "Saffron"

Brothers Lounge, 11609 Detroit Ave., Cleveland Doors @ 8:30pm, $5

www.myspace.com/returnofsimple

Rachel Sings (11/22)

Saturday, November 22nd, 2008

I know I have mentioned her before...but singer-songwriter Rachel Roberts will be performing this Saturday night at Prosperity Social Club in Tremont. Her tunes are mellow, musky and passionate. Her stage presence engaging. Just add perogies from the kitchen and I can't imagine a better evening!

9:00pm, Prosperity Social Club. For more information about Rachel visit www.myspace.com/rachelrobertsmusic

Last Chance for a Change (10/29)

Wednesday, October 29th, 2008

Seven-time Grammy Award winner, Jay-Z and Cavs star, LeBron James are teaming up to rally voters and Obama supporters with a free concert at the Quicken Loans Arena. 13,000 tickets for the show sold out in one day.



The event billed as a "Last Chance for Change" is aimed at encouraging Ohioans to vote early and to support Democratic presidential nominee, Barack Obama's campaign. LeBron will host the event which culminates with a concert by Jay-Z.

The event will be held at the "the Q" it is free and open to all Ohio residents and students, but tickets are required. Since tickets are sold out, visit Craigs List (I saw a few for sale), try to scalp them, or listen to every radio station (including 107.9 & 93.1) as they are still giving away seats!

Katie Herzig (10/18)

Saturday, October 18th, 2008

A few weekends ago I was lucky enough to spend an autumn weekend in the big apple with one of my closest friends. We saw three concerts, one-a-night. On the second night we headed into Brooklyn to see singer songwriter Katie Herzig and her talented band of musicians.

Now you might ask why on the “iheartcleveland” blog am I telling you this about Brooklyn?...well lucky us, Katie will be performing this Saturday night at the Beachland Ballroom...and you simply MUST go!

Her voice is a sweet blend of Edith Piaf and Sheryl Crow with a touch of spice on the side. The music of the Contrabass and the accordion paired with an acoustic guitar is a unique sound that you won’t want to miss. Its no wonder why they wanted her for the Sex and the City album. Very Sassy!

For a free sample of her music, visit her website www.katieherzig.com otherwise I will plan on seeing everyone there!



Katie Herzig opens for the Everybodyfields 8pm doors at 7:30pm. $12.00 Ballroom

Idol (08/04)

Thursday, September 4th, 2008

Season 7's American Idols are on tour this summer and they are hitting more than 40 cities including Cleveland! I know, it may seem a bit cheesy that I am posting about this, but come on...who doesn’t love “idol?” Well, like it or not, I am headed to the Wolstein Center at 7pm to catch a glimpse of “the David's,” Chikezie (I love to say his name), Brooke and Michael Johns. I must admit I have seen this tour before and it is a complete production, with a capitol “P.”



If you love pop culture, pop music, lots of bright lights and many fog machines, well this is the summer send off show for you! For more information, including tickets visit www.americanidol.com

Did you know? (08/08)

Today is National Frozen Custard Day.

It is the kick off to this years Olympics, (08/08/08 @ 8:00, on NBC).

and

Tickets to the November 10th, Girl Talk concert at the Beachland went on sale this morning? (I bought mine!)



Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. :)

August Concerts!

Save the Dates.In doing some research for upcoming posts I came across numerous concerts in August that I wanted to make sure got on everyones calendars, including my own! Most of them are local bands, singer, songwriters but there are a few larger names too. Good times in our city of rock and roll!

8/01 : Return of Simple : Grog Shop : My favorite song is Saffron and boy can these guys jam. Amazing! (www.myspace.com/returnofsimple)

8/02 : Rachel Roberts : Lakewood Art Festival 12:30pm : She has a great voice! I have seen her twice before and would highly recommend her tunes for a relaxing Saturday afternoon. http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=42735320

8/02 : Mifune : Brothers Lounge : This world-pop nine-piece blends the groovy, funk-tribal vibe of afrobeat with spacey, Stereolab-style ambient pop. (www.myspace.com/mifunesound)

8/03 : Joshua Radin (with Vanessa Carlton) : Beachland Ballroom : Josh is from Cleveland! (www.joshuaradin.com)

8/03 : Neil Diamond : The Q : 8:00pm : Tickets are a bit steep; $55 and up but who can resist "Sweet Caroline Bum Bum Bum?"

8/04 : Radiohead : Blossom Music Center : I have lawn seats, hope it doesn't rain!

8/08 : Metro Station | Boys Like Girls | Good Charlotte : Time Warner Amphitheatre : Feel like a Tween!—Or just rock-out like one

8/09 : Copperfoot : Crocker Park Chess Park, Westlake 6:30 - 9:30 PM : Rock , country blues, lounge songs, and folktales- all the way to the mountain top. Copperfoot plays spirited, powerful original music (and a few well chosen covers). (www.myspace.com/copperfoot)

8/09 : Jill Scott : Playhouse Square : She has an amazing set of pipes. I have been listening to her for some time, I love "Crown Royal on Ice." (www.myspace.com/whoisjillscott)

8/11 : Tokio Hotel : House of Blues Cleveland : A bit "harder" than I usually listen too...but a great band to add to your workout playlist. Monsoon is great...and so is the lead singers hair! (www.myspace.com/tokiohotel)

8/12 : Kate Kunstall : House of Blues Cleveland : Her CD is Eye to the Telescope is a great body of work. Not only is Black Horse & the Cherry Tree a hit, but I like Suddenly I See.

8/16 : Cameo | Sisqo | Peabo Bryson : Soul Food Festival—Voinovich Park : Good Music and fun food!

8/22 : Nine Inch Nails with special guest Does It Offend You, Yeah? : The Q : 7:00pm, should be a giant production, anyone going?

8/22 : HotChaCha : Matinee Cleveland : Favorite song...Heidi Was Never Good (http://www.myspace.com/hotchachahotchacha)

8/24 : Kate Voegele : House of Blues Cambridge Room : All the way from Bay Village. (www.myspace.com/katevoegele)

8/24 : Paramore with special guest Paper Route : Time Warner Amphitheatre : I saw Paper Route in Atlanta and they have a great sound...oh and I love riding my bike to Paramore!

8/27 : Miss Melvis and if you missed them before, Hot ChaCha will be playing again : Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, 7-9pm FREE sponsored by Cleveland.com, The Plain Dealer and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. Can't wait to see Melanie Rock out!

8/31 : Los Lonely Boys : Taste Of Cleveland : Groovy tunes for a perfect Sunday afternoon!

If I missed any MUST-SEE's let me know! Cheers for today.

Christmas in July (7/25)

Friday, July 25th, 2008

Christmas in July featuring The Ohio City Singers : Every Christmas for the past 5 years The Ohio City Singers gather up friends and family to record a batch of holiday cheer. Tonight the band will perform their FIRST EVER Christmas live show at the Southside in Tremont to celebrate Christmas in July. Yes, a random excuse to be stupid!

The band features a crazy collective of Cleveland musicians including Chris Allen, Doug McKean, Chris Hanna, Tom Prebish, Brent Kirby and Bobby Latina of the Jack Fords, Dan Rose, Austin "Candy Cane" Charanghat, Kelly Wright and many more.

Show time is at an early 8 pm and will consist of classic cuts such as "Egg Nogg", "Real Good Christmas Time" and "White Cleveland Christmas."

For more information visit www.chrisallenmusic.com. For directions to the Southside visit www.southsidecleveland.com

Also, even though last nights Great Lakes Brewing Co. "Christmas (Ale) in July Party" was sold out...if they have any of that liquid gold left over, you may be able to grab yourself a pint or two tonight! It's never too early to celebrate the holidays!

Magical, a perfect description. (7/25-27)

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, June 25th through the 27th, 2008

The Ingenuity Festival returns with a weekend-long celebration of art and technology, designed for audiences of any age and experience, staged in the center of Downtown Cleveland. Prominent international masters present original works alongside the finest of Northeast Ohio's performing and visual artists. High technology firms and major colleges and universities are presented alongside acclaimed artists to create a dazzling display of exciting and immersive new work! Ingenuity pushes boundaries, creating a unique festival experience that draws and celebrates diversity, and involves the audience as both spectator and participant!



There are so many interesting looking shows, exhibits and installations, but one that I deffinatley want to catch will be a late night performance by the Hot Cha Cha's Friday night at the Plain Dealer Star Plaza Stage.

Oh and if you haven't been to the Opening Ceremony (Friday, July 25 4-5:30 pm) before, it is worth it to skip out of work early for the big show...let's just say...it's Magical. :)

For the schedule and more information visit www.ingenuitycleveland.com

Simone sings Simone (7/26)

Saturday, July 26th, 2008

If you "want a little sugar in your bowl," than you can't miss this lifetime opportunity to hear Simone sing the tunes her mother, Nina Simone once crooned.

She is her own woman, a singer, songwriter and performer whose ability to transcend genres echoes the tradition of her mother, musical icon and pioneer Nina Simone. Blessed with a rich vocal range, an innate skill for lyrical interpretation and a soul-deep understanding of music as a means of healing, empowerment and celebration, Simone is very much her mother’s daughter, she is most assuredly a multi-talented artist in her own right.

A highly-praised live performer whose impressive resume includes starring roles on Broadway in such acclaimed musicals as Rent and Aida, Simone has developed an exciting and diverse repertoire of pop, soul, jazz, rock and funk, expressed in shows she’s done throughout the U.S. and in the UK, Ireland, Holland, Finland, Spain and France.



“This is my tribute to my mother, a chance for me to do the songs I love the most the way I hear them. It’s a glimpse of my life over four decades…” On April 21, 2006, three years after her mother’s passing, Simone paid tribute to her at Town Hall in New York, at the very venue where forty-seven years earlier a 26-year old Nina Simone had enjoyed her first major show in the city. Simone’s spellbinding, soulful performance turned into the genesis for the recording of Simone On Simone. “The idea had been pitched to me before but I had been writing a lot of my own material for almost ten years and my goal was to record those songs. It felt like an obstacle between me and that goal to do a tribute record to my mother. But after the Town Hall performance, I started considering it seriously…”

I can't wait to see this show. I remember the first time I ever heard Nina Simone I was in seventh grade and I rushed out and bought a tape of her music. Her deep vocal range astonished me as a young soprano singer, I actually ruined that tape from rewinding it over and over and trying to sing those same notes. I think this show will be a summer, must see!

For times & tickets visit www.beachlandballroom.com For more information on Ms. Simone visit www.simonesworld.com

Missy @ Beachland (7/20)

Sunday, July 20th 2008

In a world littered with disposable pop Missy Higgins is a welcome relief.. passionate, sincere and proudly Australian. The 23 year old singer/songwriter from Melbourne has enjoyed phenomenal success in her homeland in spite - or perhaps because - of shunning the usual synthetic packaging and tabloid tackiness. Instead she's adopted a more timeless approach, relying on her undeniable songs and unforgettable live performances to build a genuine and gimmick free connection with her audience.



Missy's new album, "On A Clear Night", retains the hallmarks of her earlier work - irresistible melodies and 'arrow through the heart' lyrics delivered by a voice that clearly means it. However, this time around the tracks benefit from the empathetic production of Mitchell Froom who helmed the first three Crowded House albums as well as works by other quality artists such as Ron Sexsmith, Elvis Costello, Paul McCartney and the Finn Brothers.

My favorite Missy Higgins Tunes to sing really loud when I am alone in the car is Sugarcane (So, run, run fast sugarcane) and Peachy ("Life is peachy...without me")


Missy will be in concert Sunday at Beachland Ballroom, at 8pm, $15.00 www.missyhiggins.com

Marie Sings (7/11)

Friday, July 11th, 2008

Don't miss the lovely, elegant and You-Tube phenom this evening at the House of Blues as LA-Based Marie Digby captures the crowd with her sweet, sensual, simply gorgeous voice.



With her new album and recent world premier video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=9F9q_k5TWqo) songs like "Say it Again" and "Spell" are soon to become regular whistle-while-you-work tunes, catch her while you can. If you missed her show at The Winchester back in May she will be opening for Gavin DeGraw tonight.

Doors open at 7:30. Tickets starts at $22. For ticket information visit www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/cleveland/ or check out Marie at www.myspace.com/mariedigby

Cottontail Concert (7/12)

Saturday, July 12th, 2008

(hum to the tune of Peter Cottontail...) Here comes Roxy Cottontail hopping down the B. Side trail hippitty hoppity concerts on it's way. Bringing every girl and boy big night full with party joy hippity hoppy roxy's on her way! :)

"Roxy Cottontail is the woman that every girl rocking Nikes and huge earrings longs to be. Roxy, who also goes by Oxy, is a streetwear fashionista, full-time hustler, and arguably one of New York's best-known promoters. She got into the business by spreading the club sound and making stars out of acts such as Spank Rock and Hollertronix. She also DJs and recently got into producing music for herself. Roxy raps over beats that are a little punk, a little funk, sample-heavy, and undeniably dance-party worthy. Imagine a mix of Peaches, the Rapture, and Gravy Train and you're almost ready for Roxy's set." - flavorpill.net



Don't miss "oxy cottontail" (www.oxycottontail.com) as she spins records at The B-Side Liquor Lounge along with Misterbradleyp - 10pm $10 For more concert info visit www.grogshop.gs

Music in the Park (6/22)

Sunday, June 22nd 2008

Want to enjoy the summer evening breeze rolling off the lake while humming the tunes of the beloved Beatles? Grab a picnic blanket and head to Rocky River Park this Sunday evening for the sounds of “Revolution Pie” a Beatles cover band!

Rocky River Park, 20250 Beachcliff Blvd. 7:00-8:30PM

JayMay & Fink...Friday (6/13)

Friday June 13th, 2008

Her tunes are sweet. Her voice is soulful. If you don't know JayMay (pronounced Jamie) don't miss this show! Jamie Seerman is an American folk singer-songwriter from Brooklyn, performing under the name Jaymay. She was raised in Long Island and in 2003 after having graduated from New College in Sarasota, Florida, she was unable to find a job in book publishing and moved back to New York to play open mics. She has been described by the BBC as "darling of the New York ’Anti-Folk’ scene", and by the New York Times as a "big name…for the indie universe".

In 2007 Jaymay moved to London, after signing with Heavenly Records, which is distributed by the major EMI label. Jaymay’s debut album Autumn Fallin’ album was released in the United States on March 11, 2008 on Blue Note Records.



My favorites songs are Hard to Say (love the scat!) and Blue Skies. For tunes visit www.myspace.com/jaymay

Oh, and did I mention that JayMay will be performing with Fink. Straight from the UK this DJ and singer songwriter is making his way across the US. "We've played some great shows in the last year," enthuses Fink from his home in Brighton. Fink's debut album for Ninja Tune, "Biscuits for Breakfast," marked a seismic shift for the label shelving samples and turntablism in favour of an acoustic guitar and great songs. The record, distinguished by its squeaking fret boards and disarmingly autobiographical lyrics, caught the attention of audiences worldwide.



Over a hundred Fink shows across Europe, including dates at the Electron and JazzOnze festivals, were followed by an intense tour of North America, where Fink, together with bassist Guy Whittaker and drummer Tim Thornton, jetted between seven cities in nine days after having received the Single of the Week slot from iTunes US. He and the band are now due to play the esteemed Cognac Blues festival at the end of July, with Fink making another special guest appearance with Nitin Sawhney at the Royal Albert Hall in August as part of this years Proms.

I LOVE the song Blueberry Pancakes. Check out more of his lyrics at www.finkworld.co.uk

This show is sure to be packed, don't miss it!
B-Side Liquor Lounge www.bsideliquorlounge.com
8pm $8

UK Tunes (5/15)

Wednesday May 15th, 2008

“When I started making records,” David Ford grins, “I said I wanted them to be emotionally fraught processes, like I’d survived a war. Now I can safely say, I want to make a really easy one!” And he grins again. Or was that a grimace?

Nobody said it was going to be easy but nothing ventured, nothing gained. Songs For The Road (released in March 2008 on Original Signal Recordings), Ford’s successor to his 2006 debut I Sincerely Apologise For All The Trouble I’ve Caused (Columbia), is so good it’s worth all the pain. It’s another deftly contained nine-song package, short in time (running at 37 minutes) but epic in content. All human emotions are here – fear and loathing, love and loneliness, anxiety and release – creating a record radiating resilience and hope even if it ends with “probably the saddest song I’ve ever written.”



If you can squeeze in the concert amidst the Cavs madness...do so! 8pm at the House of Blues. For more information on David visit www.originalsignalrecordings.com or for tickets visit www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/cleveland

Rock Party (5/10)

Saturday, May 10th, 2008

Patty Smyth (Scandal), Rob Parissi (Wild Cherry), the Sugarhill Gang, Lou Gramm (Foreigner) and others are gonna rock Public Hall with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum's 7th Annual "It's Only Rock and Roll" Benefit, and you can get special $15 balcony tix. It's all for a great cause -- proceeds benefit the Museum's educational programs and ticket buyers have a shot at winning 2009 Induction tix and an Inductee Summer Concert Package. Sweet!

The night kicks off at 6pm. For more tickets and additional information visit www.rockhall.com/support/gala.

Free Jazz (4/24)

Thursday, April 24th, 2008

Come enjoy the sounds of Rodney Whitaker on Bass, Randy Gelispie on Drums, Jackie Warren on Piano and Dominick Farinacci on Trumpet, for this years Tri-C Jazz Festival, JazzFest Lunchtime Showcase.



Free. 12:00 noon at the Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square
For additional festival concerts visit www.tricjazzfest.com

Hot Cha Cha (4/11)

Friday April 11th, 2008

So, after you hit up MOCA Cleveland for the big Baby Dayliner show, make sure to make your final stop of the evening the Bella Dubby in Lakewood for their all night music fest.

One group that will really rock the house is the "Hot Cha Cha's," a smokin hot girl group. The girls are each 18, wear red shoes, are sassy, slim and play everything from jazz, classical, rock, country, modern.......as long as it is loud, they play it! Hot Cha Cha's debut album will be out on Cleveland's Exit Stencil Recordings later this year, be one of the first "in the know."



Along with the Hot Cha Cha's the evening will also feature:

The Dreadful Yawns-"The group's blend of alt-country and "minimalist psychedelic folk" is as diverse as it is texturally rich." -Scene Magazine

The Very Knees-"The local indie-rock group's noisy clamor resonates in a shambling wobble of unwavering pluck and natural charm." -Scene Magazine

Unsparing Sea-"if you haven't caught its whimsical blend of orchestral finesse and Nashville swagger, you'll soon have your chance." -Free Times

Romance of Young Tigers - "To say they have a simplistic approach to the music would be somewhat of an understatement. It's rare in the art of music to come across individuals who make music their own way, and for their own interest" -Wright State Campus Pub.

Shows start at 8 and will wrap up around midnight. Bella Dubby 13321 Madison (just west of 117th, Lakewood) 216-221-4479. coffee house. beer & snacks. art gallery.