J Neo Marvin and the Content Providers at the Hotel Utah - 07/26/04

“HIGH Content”

The Will Franken “Things We Did Before Reality Vol 1” at The Marsh Theatre Review! - 07/10/04

Before you get to the Marsh Theatre, you’ll drive around and around searching for the smallest parking space only to find empty spots where there are fire hydrants, red zones, handicapped signs, and driveways. If you’re smart unlike me, you’ll turn onto Valencia Street and choose the first parking space you see and start walking. Go ahead and try the small public parking garage on 21st Street. Better yet, you can try some far away side street or go on up around the corner to Guerrero like I did.

The Marsh Theatre sits at 1062 Valencia St near 22nd. Directly across the street you will see Valencia Cycles and down on the corner is Kentucky Fried Chicken. This is a pleasant little neighborhood with some busy night life taverns, a few store fronts like Valencia Interiors that close early, and cozy dinner houses such as The Firecracker. One thing you will not find in the vicinity is an obvious coffee house. Saturday nights bristle with local socialites and tourists, as well as a few unfortunates who will gladly accept any food or donations. The Marsh takes a little getting used to at first, but I found myself fully comfortable after a beer and a chair. The seating surrounds the stage at an increasing level and the ceiling is lined with professional lighting and effects that any performer would enjoy. I think the outside of the Marsh could use some flare or a little more of a welcome.

I was thrilled to see my friends Neil and Alexia waiting to see the show. This would be my first opportunity to experience Will Franken comedy. It doesn't’t hurt that Mr. Franken extends an offer of free beer to early audience members. Wills’ counter part Carli Cutchin is a great welcoming host and a delight to meet if she’s not too busy. Everyone inside the establishment is friendly and happy and there is not a hint of negativity or random cannibalism you may find at other comedy venues. Another comedian Justin Scales who is performing July 16th at 50 Mason tells me that right next store is another theatre that is a bit smaller.

There is much more to Will Franken than “The Circus Song”. The word on the street needs to get in gear because I was thoroughly impressed with his performance. This is not the amateur comedy entertainer I’ve come to know at smaller cafes and open mics around town. No. Will Franken is certainly making a name for himself with some non-stop comic relief that is completely original and painstakingly funny. I so much needed a good laugh tonight and I received constant hits to the gut over and over again. Will takes you through a whole lineup of witty and flavorful characters that are so realistic that you will find yourself fully immersed in a world that is “Things We Did Before Reality”.

Enter the zany and accurate British butler who will instantly have you thinking that you’re attending a play or a short film. Slowly Mr. Franken builds up his steam and throws an endless stream of original characters at you. Each scene molds into the next with some very genius and sharp monologue that flawlessly pours out effortlessly and constant. Your jaw will clatter like Popeye as you witness the class professor “...all students must purchase a Girl Scout uniform”. Your belly will shake and jiggle when you hear the Sybil like talk show host interview his guests “…and what is the conspiracy theory …theory?” I won’t forget the trans-gender football coach who explains “…I’ll have all 500% of you or your head will be buried at the 50 yard line” Will Frankens’ surprisingly tasteful comedy takes you through a whole list of insane and wacky characters and back again. He even pulls out some quick impersonations and realistic song and poetry. Incredibly believable is the insane court room prosecutor and the equally crazy defendant who “…thought the human was a fish and asked for a commemorative plaque for releasing him [the dead man] to sea.”

There is so much more to Will Frankens’ “Things We Did Before Reality” show that you must experience it for yourself. This is pure non-stop laughter and entertainment for anyone looking for a bite of the new and fresh local talent emerging throughout San Francisco. You can visit Wills’ website at www.willfranken.com and buy CD’s of this and other performances as well as download some clips. Also available are upcoming gigs and detailed listings of Will Frankens’ best known pieces. Will makes it a point to make every show fresh and unique with new material and audience participation. Laughter is life’s best medicine and Will Franken is the cure!

www.soundgive.com

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“Still the Best” – The Canvas Gallery Open Mic Review

This may be a rough music review, but I’ve heard when times are hard it brings the best out of you. I wasn't’t able to focus on my Open Mic performance at The Canvas Gallery this evening. Life is what happens to you while you’re making other plans. I was out in Berkeley looking for used guitar equipment that didn't’t exist. I was lost on BART at 12th street in Oakland because I pretty much hardly ever go to Berkeley. Plus the BART color scheme similar to the Homeland Defense System doesn't’t help. And wouldn't’t you know it, I found out I parked in a tow away zone that cost me $171.00 to recover. I am a big time victim of DPT and its excessive parking restrictions and laws. I’m thinking about selling my SUV in place of a motorized cart with a trailer!

I need to tell you a little more about The Canvas Gallery! It’s clear to one arriving that this is indeed a hefty San Francisco attraction. Parking is basically a synch each time I visit. I have much respect for the friendly wait staff, the talented musicians, and the tapestry of expert artwork sprinkled from wall to wall. Everything about The Canvas Gallery has a touch of creative expression to it. The food is not just food. The colorful salads are a big favorite here. I plan to try each and every one of the fresh tasty sweets. You might catch me at the newly appropriated full bar trying to get close to Jenny who’s always a charming server. The hot beverage menu is easy to warm up to. In addition, the vibe here is Chill! You will find a full house of college students and business socialites, as well as a few party animals and eccentrics. The Canvas Gallery has recently added extra wait staff, there is a wireless intranet, and also hosts Blues on Sunday afternoons. There are much more surprises to read about the gallery here. - www.thecanvasgallery.com –

This was going to be my most tricky Open Mic review yet. I had to consider the long list of artists, the social obligations of being a performer, not to mention the vast stream of information filling my mind. The host Open Mike Fleming, being the seasoned musician that he is, warms the crowd up carefully. There is frequently an entourage of back up “guests” that accompany the opening and closing sets with Mike. Soon you will experience the deeply diverse issues that Open Mics like this bring. You will hear the outraged and the zany musicians like Captain Zonkers [Josh Goldberger] and the man with the acoustic homeless bum satire.

You will see the undiscovered and the clandestine talent in people like the zesty Brian Lunde [sp] and the emotional Jen Walsh. Debbie and a separate artist Badger both gave pieces of their hearts with smooth lyrical drama music. The technical players included Daryl, an amazing bass guitarist playing Café International on Haight Street Friday evening, and James Moore who sat in the washroom practicing with his guitar and harmonica for an hour. Some of these Open Mic members are from a long history of dedicated musicians. Among them are people like Brian Harrison who will bring you “In the Face of Love”. Or Jeff Belbey and his mandolin will invite you to serenade the moonlight with “Cry Love”. Are you seeing a trend here? My mind was spinning in energy hearing individuals such as Sam the eccentric undecided soloist. And then there’s Mark and Brent who touched us with their separately unique lyrical hysteria and guitar.

My two song slot seemed to be tainted by a lack of confidence. My voice was thrown out of whack by some tremendously dry vocal chords. I was severely drained by my earlier ordeal in Berkeley. I also dropped a quick vitamin on the way out hoping to magically stimulate a musical edge, but was only left feeling nervous and edgy. I seem to remember the audience looking straight through my dark brown eyes. They were looking for that distinct connection that just wasn't’t there. Don’t get me wrong, I do feel people can pull through difficult situations like this. But I think it’s important not to do what I did and try to find relief from the outside. The comfort and reassurance comes from inside. Not from several gulps of alcohol or Kahlua and coffee with no whipped cream. There is a touch of discipline involved here. Another important factor is that the voice is a delicate organ inside a protective temple. Aside from the relaxation aspect, alcoholic beverages are known to dry the vocal chords. Cold drinks can shrink them and make them brittle and tight. The business proprietor may not enjoy this, but I’ve read that the best antidote is lots of plain old room temperature water. Vocal chords need to be well hydrated. And by all means, avoid sugars and fatty milk products that will coat your throat and make your vocal organ heavy with burden. But you will be hard pressed to avoid all this. The compounding factors against you are tough to beat. The social interaction and mating rituals will distract you. The little devil on your shoulder will cast down self doubt. I think the last most important thing is to work through it and learn from it. Don’t back down or back out. Give it your best and don’t be afraid to fail. David Bowie put it best saying that the ideal performance is the one that is out of control and spontaneous. Just do your thing and let it live, however lacking or expert it is.

The Open Mic at The Canvas Gallery produces a Featured Artist every Wednesday who gets thirty minutes to showcase their unique talent. These featured artists are “among the best” of all the Open Mic bands and solo entertainers. All performances are generally recorded for reviewing later thanks to the keen skills of our host Mr. Fleming who was recently back East reviewing Open Mics there. When asked about his review Mike smiled “We’re still the best!” I couldn't’t agree more. The recent TBS video shoot of “The Open Mic Showcase” certainly carries this declaration well. I think the enormous congregation of residents, musicians, artists, and alternative lifestyles that make San Francisco so unique add to this report. The Canvas Gallery Open Mic gets one FULL star. See you next time!

www.soundgive.com

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“A Full Glass of Class” - The Axum East Open Mic Review! - 05/26/04

Polk and Pine is a busy part of the city. BEEP BEEP! HONK HONK! But I found out tonight that The Axum East is actually closer to Polk and Bush at 1233 Polk Street. “Hey, got any change?” Early evening it’s hard to find parking cause there are tons of great restaurants in this area. “Wanna buy some weed?” One of the great restaurants is Crestations at the corner of Polk and Pine. I was able to park a few blocks down on Bush Street near Larkin. “Mumble mUmBLe”. I noticed a few nice book stores and café houses, but mostly food.

Seeing the huge Axum sign and the clean exterior was comforting. I found myself racing to get inside to find some fortitude. There’s a decent sized bar and a pool table. The Axum East is THE BEST Ethiopian Restaurant in the city as voted by The Bay Guardian and SF Weekly. I hope to try the food as the menu is about right for the famished musician and offers vegan entrées as well. In addition to the food menu is a nice assortment of brandy, scotch, whiskey, and wine. Beer on tap was a touch limited on this night. According to Tim Hunt, a powerful and inspiring musician with extensive domestic touring experience, the restaurant history goes back prior to the San Francisco earthquake and was at one time a brothel. Furthermore, The Axum East is one of the longest continuously running restaurant establishments in the city.

I’ve never performed here so my heart rate was elevated as soon as I walked through the door. The music was already underway and most of the side tables were full of hungry socialites. The first thing I noticed was the size. This place is pretty huge with a bar in the front, a spacious dinning area in the middle lined with booths, and the kitchen and restrooms in the back. The baby grand piano looks immaculate and takes up almost half of the stage, but I’m sure a four piece band can manage as many musicians have most likely seen worse. The music direction here is stylish. Probably more accustomed to seasoned acts and jazz performers. The Open Mic host Andrew Freeman himself is a true musician in his own right and deserves some hefty recognition. The vibe here is a type of mature family thing that I’m sure only the friends understand.

Tim Hunt, Andrew Freeman, and a man named Dave seemed to shine on this crazy diamond. Tim’s acoustic version of Purple Rain helped me have more respect for that little runt PRINCE otherwise known as “The Artist” [insert logo here]. I hope Andrew Freeman likes to hear people scream because he definitely received some distinct applause and appreciation. I don’t recall hearing one sour note and his attitude was utter kindness for a busy Open Mic host. The man has some chops, what can I say? Dave is obviously a seasoned veteran who knows a bit about John Wayne and songs written about that era. His spunky upbeat approach had me glued to his rich mid-range vocal tone and his guitar playing seemed to stitch along like an old Singer sowing machine. He reminded me of a traditional country folk artist. All these regular artists were very pleasing. A few piano players shook things up with some lounge like appeal that is always welcome. Lisa and another female artist Pamela had my ears begging for more. I tend to get a bit weak when hearing female vocalists and I was not disappointed. Does anyone remember Carl? Well, I do and he was in top form tonight. The hungry crowd seemed to enjoy his spot the most. Even though the night was winding down, Alex seemed to have a great time playing some Pink Floyd and I was happy about that. My night of music concluded as Tim afforded me a full glass of class. The Axum Open Mic completes me.

www.soundgive.com

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“Free Beer” – The JJ Schultz Beer Drinkin’ Acoustic Show Review! - 05/28/04

When I woke up this morning I looked out over the clear San Francisco horizon and reflected. “What a BEAUTIFUL day”. Little did I know that it was going to be an absolutely beautiful evening as well! Although today is my deceased brother Chris’ birthday, today is also the day of the “JJ Schultz Beer Drink’n Acoustic Show”! I was quite excited, but I had no idea how truly impressive this show was going to be. Don’t be fooled by the fact the show takes place at San Francisco’s BEST laundry facility. Inside there is a separate area for expressive artwork, a full menu of tantalizing food, and a compact little beer bar with an exceptional retail staff. Don’t forget to say hi to Heather, who is a little work of art herself!

Arriving at The Brainwash on Folsom St. was a breeze. I parked up on Howard St. near 8th and walked down the alley way. I immediately began seeing friendly faces and people I’ve come to know and this made things all the better. You really must meet Phil. He’s a wonderful gentleman who goes to almost every show supporting local music and it’s just a delight to see him. The Brainwash seems to always be jumping with some sort of local activity. A crowd of all sorts occupied the inner sect as well as the outer exterior where you’ll find chairs and tables for eating and smokers, etc. It’s very comfortable inside with a few couches, tables, and stunning artwork that I would surely buy if I was in the market.

Among the first two performers of the evening is Rodney Brillante. I’m glad I made it in time to catch a part of his show. A native of the Monterey coast, Rodney is an acoustic guitar solo artist who also plays a miniature Ovation instrument resembling a ukulele. Now a resident of the Berkeley area, Mr. Brillante is an advocate of “kids” and his music is honest, soft, and enlightening. I was most impressed with the little guitar stuff!

Immediately following Rodney, is JJ Schultz. The epitome of Western Americana music, JJ’s boot kick’n set seems to also be mixed with a touch of rock and roll. While enjoying him let loose on his second song, I noticed he really gets the most out of his guitar by loving its unique dynamics. Mr. Schultz has a new CD coming soon called "Bustin' Outa Town" and is also opening for “The New Black Trio” on Wednesday July 7th at Café Du Nord in San Francisco.

While greeting everyone and listening, I have to mention that I met an enormously attractive creature named Rebecca who is off to graduate school soon. She works with children who have autism and other mental deficiencies. I was critically wounded when she informed me she would be leaving for Wisconsin. However, she did help me describe tonight’s 3rd performer Scotty “Rock and Roll” Robertson. Scotty comes out of Hayward and has a smooth continuous musical style. What strikes me about him is the way he takes what seems like a fragile voice and turns it into something soothing and enjoyable. You’ll be sitting there listening and all of a sudden you realize... HE’S PLAYING ACDC and DEF LEPPARD! I was completely caught off guard and drawn into the moment. Mr. Robertson is also a kind soul who is easy to speak with.

And now we arrive at the evenings 4th performance. The stimulating Terese Taylor is provocative and confident. I’ve been hearing some great things about her so I was looking forward to her performance. Terese maintains a solid cohesion with her drummer Rob Johnson, a dominant drummer and multi-instrumentalist who in my opinion… stole the show tonight. Miss Taylor seemed to be having a great time on stage with a great smile and an abundance of energy. She treated us to her version of Van Morrisons’ “Moon dance” and her music is powerful and concrete enough dance to. Rob and his talent provided a rock-hard drum beat as well as some unique xylophone and wind instrument work. I must add that Terese Taylor’s music is composed of numerous tempo and key changes which kept me tuned in. She is also a part of the Café Du Nord show taking place on July 7th. Be there!

Finally, as if I hadn’t had enough, enter Danny Scherr. I was coming out of the washroom [the combination is 2001] as Danny began to play. I had to stop and listen to his crisp and affectionate voice. I was very moved by his personal and precise music that in essence was deeply personal and sensitive. I could see a quiet couple or a tired socialite tuning in for his unique style of music. His demeanor is very smart and humble. I think Danny would do very well at a calm dinner house or small café. I had to leave a bit early, but I didn’t get to hear anything upbeat or hard which seemed like a good way to end the night. It’s important to mention that JJ Schultz purchased the whole venue a complimentary beer to complete his show. The “JJ Schultz Beer Drink’n Acoustic Show” is an experience not to be missed!

www.soundgive.com

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“He can, She can, ICAN” – The Hotel Utah Open Mic Review! - 06/09/04

It’s Monday the 24th and today is the day of the Hotel Utah Open Mic. It’s a beautiful day. The temperature is just right and the birds seem to know today is a day of music and song. As each hour passes I get more excited that I get to perform tonight. My collection of song moves through my mind like a film strip thru a projector. But my heart knows I’m still in love with that girl and I need to let her go. I know early on “Something About You” is the song I hope to deploy. Though I love to play waves of melodies on my electric guitar, I’ll settle with my simple acoustic love affair. The clock keeps reminding me that I don’t have much time. I don’t care what I wear as long as it’s clean and it’s me. People always cut you off on the highway when you’re running late, but I’m so pleased that the guy leaving let me park less than a block away.

I’m overjoyed to see my friend Laura behind the bar. She always acknowledges me for who I know I am. The atmosphere is clean and pure. I don’t sense any sour emotions or awful smells. I follow my frosty beer down the steps to the staging area. A guitarist and his friendly company strum along waiting for the host Bob O’magic to gear things up for the show. I’m feeling the vibes. This is going to be great, as usual. Behind Bob and his clever hat comes a whole stream of local faces. I look above me and wonder how much weight the balcony can hold. Things quickly take shape thanks to John Swerden’s help with the hat and JJ Schultz’ free CD’s, and we arrive at the reading of the Open Mic list.

Patiently, I wait for my name to be called. Bob is an impromptu genius that breaks the ice with some great allergy humor while Danny Scherr picks along on his fret board. The list is complete and all I can remember is #3. #3 is a personal number for me so I’m quite pleased. It’s Chris’ first attendance and he is at the end of the list. I comfort him because I was last on my first night at the Utah back in 1998. Ironically, the original open mic host Dela Sol graces the floor. The sound fluctuates. It seems crisp and clear during some performances, and a touch wet on others. I remind myself that it is a raw forum, I suppose. There are more piano players than usual tonight, but no one is complaining. The piano actually sounds great to my ears. Somehow, I make it on stage and complete my performance. I didn’t feel connected with the universe this time around. Maybe it was the spur of the moment band that I asked to accompany me. Maybe it was me. Good or bad, I was happy to perform and felt lifted up by the feedback and the human interaction afterwards. A man was singing something powerful about America. It was quite creative. Another piano player sucked us all in with his sensitive fingers. Male performers seemed to dominate the night. There was the attractive female vocalist who everyone couldn't’t stop talking about. I wondered what it felt like to be pulled aside by Bob and asked to feature. Deyla Sol was obviously excited to be back and couldn't’t stop talking about her memories here. Rebecca encouraged me to stay a bit longer with her terrific smile. Bodi inspired me with his dynamic vocal approach. This cool and rich San Francisco night reminded me that He Can, She Can, and ICAN.

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“Free CD’s!” – Lonnie Lazar and the Vaporizors at Kimo’s - 06/05/04

Trickling in with the rest, I was a little disappointed by the thin crowd at first. Comforting was the familiar smiles and faces that I’ve come to know over the years. The stage at Kimo’s seemed a bit crowded as Brian Harrison and his band tuned up for which seemed a bit too long. The audio engineer was busy running back and forth determined to get the sound just right. I cautiously greeted Jim McClaren with a quick friendly fist as he held his guitar and got comfortable with his harmonica Dylan style. A few hugs and hand shakes later the tables began to fill. A bit discouraged, I decided to get to know the popular venue. My taller than a cello friend Toy informed me that the walls and ceiling were transformed from a dark pitch black to a colorful frenzy similar to a tasteful graffiti. I thought the pipes that hugged the ceiling were a bit more beautiful than other ceiling pipes I’ve seen. Before I knew it, the Brian Harrison Band ignited with confidence and professionalism. Everything seemed perfect from the onset. The sound levels were good to my ears and the lighting was enough to see colorful rosy cheeks. It was nice to see dual harmonicas. After being lost in the music for a spell, I looked behind me to find a full bar of people. Groups of girls and several round tables of friends began to fill my view. I ordered myself a light Stella when a smiling feline whiskered a friendly greeting. Sounds of a great song “Guilty” filled my head as I melted into the smooth facial features of my new friend Christine. I struggled not to be rude as I flipped back and forth from Christine and the music. I was happy and the music helped me feel good.

Time flies when you’re having fun. Laughter and echo’s bounced around. “Who’s Lonnie?” “Where’s Lonnie?” “Are you Lonnie?” “You look like Lonnie”. I stumbled to correct as I stated “I wish!”. Lonnie Lazar and the Vaporizer’s bass player Rickie squeezed up to the bar and greeted his friend Christine. He introduced himself to me with a kind soft spoken voice. I instantly knew I liked this person. The venue was packed. The large dance floor was trampled under foot. And the band was waiting on stage. “Who’s Lonnie?” “Where’s Lonnie?” “Are you Lonnie?” “You look like Lonnie”. As I began to answer, the man and father took the stage. “Do you like to dance?” I asked as the Vaporizer machine began to turn. I guess “Down in Memphis” they don’t dance much. This crowd needed a jump start. She asked me to dance with myself so I obliged. Turning and spinning and trying to avoid equipment, I felt the energy of this crafted masterpiece rattle my bones. I wanted to dance forever. Everyone soon caught on to my lead as I saw a bunny rabbit hop around closer to the stage. Before I could say “I know what love is”, the jamboree of people pushed me back to the bar where I ordered another light beer. The dance floor was creaking. The walls were humming. My testosterone was reeling. This was a show in every sense of the word. It looked like people actually flew in as I witnessed a pretty kitten roll her air luggage across the floor. My friend Christine was gone nowhere to be found. I focused on the lyrics to a song I can’t name at this point, but it jerked my heart with a story of a veteran soldier with metal in his flesh and no legs. He was from the hills of Tennessee. I could see the passion in Lonnie Lazars eyes as he wondered if anyone actually heard the subject over the solid beat of the precise and loud drummer. This was a rare show coming from the man, husband, and father who plays at the annual “High Sierra Festival” in Quincy, California. My attention span began to fade. I wanted to stay but I had to go. So I said my goodbyes and I headed on home … but I’ll be back!

www.soundgive.com

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