Susan Copley's work is exhibited nationally with permanent collections throughout New York State as well as numerous corporate and private collections

Buffalo River Fest
Buffalo River Fest Park, Downtown Buffalo

Elmwood Ave. Festival of the Arts
An eclectic arts celebration. Elmwood Ave.

National Buffalo Wing Festival
Coca-Cola Park. Come Hungry!

Taste of Ellicottville
Throughout the Villiage
Ellicottville, NY

Concert Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The bastard child of modern country music and a seminal player in the whole alternative-country movement Steve Earle made a rare area appearance for a show at the Bear's Den inside the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, NY on May 5th, 2013. Out on the road behind his latest release The Low Highway Earle would showcase a good portion of that record and selections from his work on the television show Treme and a few from throughout his career.

With his long hair and slightly balding pate and a beard that rivals Duck Dynasty's Robertson clan Earle cuts quite the figure of anti-establishment authority. He would manage to throw the proverbial dart at Wal-Mart on "Burnin' It Down", George W. Bush on the slap down "Little Emperor" and the hand that feeds him in this case the casino itself as Earle declared before his final song "We got time for one more because of rules around here. They want you out there losing your money".

He can also crack a joke. After a blistering version of his country blues weeper "I Thought You Should Know" Earle quipped "I just got all you guys laid". He threw down some Bluegrass long a favorite of his on "Love's Gonna Blow My Way" from the new disc and rocked the rafters with "Taneytown" from his classic album El Corazon. Other highlights from the show included the one that started it all for Earle "Guitar Town", "Copperhead Road", "Hard Core Troubadour" and the Celtic rocker "Galway Girl". Earle returned for an encore and spoke about his three year old son John Henry who was recently diagnosed with autism and then delivered a tender and melancholy "Remember Me" that had everyone counting their blessings.

A very jovial Earle came out to the merchandise table after the show and chatted, sign autographs and posed for photos with his legions of fans. For more great upcoming shows at the Seneca Casinos go to www.senecacasinos.com

Concert Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Pop jazz stylist Diana Krall currently on tour behind her latest release Glad Rag Doll played to a full house at the Center for the Arts on the UB North Campus on April 23, 2013 for a show that was originally scheduled for February but was cancelled due to illness. The wait was worth it as Krall performed a brilliant set of songs from the Great American Songbook and songs she learned growing up listening to her father's records. Some may call her a sellout to the jazz world for her mainstream success but Krall put the doubters to rest with her serious piano chops and her husky sensuous vocals. The stage was set up like an old movie/vaudeville theater with back drop film projections throughout the show, curtains and old style clamshell footlights. While most of the nearly two hour set featured tracks from her latest Krall also ran through songs from Tom Waits, Nat King Cole and Fats Waller.

Starting the show with "When the Curtain Comes Down" from Glad Rag Doll the charismatic Krall had the rapt attention of the crowd. She regaled the crowd with stories about the songs and herself between numbers sometimes ruminating too long as she herself mentioned before performing the next track. Highlights from the new record included "Just like a Butterfly That's Caught in the Rain", "You Know-I Know Ev'rything's Made for Love" and "Let It Rain". Krall and her band gave Wait's "Temptation"an inspired and spirited workout that turned out to be the high point of the show. A mid show solo turn at the piano by Krall featured the title cut from her latest "Glad Rag Doll", a sexy "Peel Me a Grape", Cole's "Straighten Up and Fly Right" and Waller's "Your Feet's Too Big". The band returned and offered two more gems from the new disc each from a completely different musical era yet melded perfectly to the show's nostalgic theme. Buddy and Julie Miller's "Wide River to Cross" showed what great writers and artists that the Millers are to the modern era while an encore of the late great Jimmie Rodger's "Prairie Lullaby",dedicated to Krall's husband Elvis Costello and their children, proved the perfect way to end the show and evening.

For more great upcoming shows at the center for the Arts go to www.ubcfa.org

Concert Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

"All that gold!" was all my friend S.D.B. (initials only to protect the guilty) could exclaim when the Ambrosia show was announced. The multiple Grammy nominated California band started out in the '70's as progressive rockers on par with Yes and Genesis and morphed into a Top 40 hit machine in the '80's did spin out some gold during their time. Even if you don't remember the name or the band their songs are the kind you sing along to on the radio and can't remember who performed it.
The band still features three of the four original members (Joe Puerta on bass and vocals, Burleigh Drummond on drums and Christopher North on keyboards) along with two newer members (Doug Jackson on guitar and Rick Cowling on keyboards and vocals). The band's appearance at the Bear's Den at the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, NY on April 19th, 2013 before a nearly full house of reminiscing Baby Boomers featured all that gold and more.

The ninety minute set kicked off with "Nice, Nice Very Nice" an early hit for the band and was followed by the later period hits "Livin' on My Own" and "You're the Only Woman". "Heart to Heart" and "Time Waits For No One" could be called deep cuts and the cover song portion of the show took the form of a couple of Beatles tunes "Magical Mystery Tour" a minor hit for Ambrosia in the 70's and "Oh Darling" that vocalist Rick Cowling knocked out of the park. That being said and you may call me a curmudgeon but two Beatles covers is too much in my book no matter how well you perform them. Unless you are a Beatles cover band.

The band continue to spin the gold with "How Much I Feel" a hand holding moment for the Baby Boomers in the crowd, "Holdin' On to Yesterday" a spacey love anthem who's title seems somewhat ironic for the band and some of those same Baby Boomers now, "You're The Biggest Part of Me" and a show closing "Life Beyond L.A." that brought the crowd to their feet. After the show the band met their many fans who waited for the chance to get a picture and their old vinyl LP's signed by the band that graciously obliged. For more great upcoming shows at the Seneca Casinos including their summer concert lineup go to www.senecacasinos.com

Concert Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

It is almost hard to believe that Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes have been making music for nearly forty years. The players sometimes change but the music remains the same a horn heavy mix of rock and rhythm and blues birthed on the Jersey Shore. Frequent visitors to these parts over the years the band (Southside Johnny- vocals, harmonica and percussion, Jeff Kazee-keyboards and accordion, John Conte- bass, Glenn Alexander,-guitar, Tom Seguso,- drums, John Isley,- tenor sax, baritone sax and percussion, Chris Anderson,- trumpet and percussion and Neal Pawley- trombone, acoustic guitar and percussion) made a stop this time at the Bear's Den inside the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, NY on April 20th, 2013. This performance however was tinged with bittersweet emotions as this would be the first show in our area without longtime Jukes fan Bill Fallon. Fallon, an FBI Agent, father, husband and all around good guy passed away suddenly last month. He was longtime friends of both the band and this writer and will be sorely missed. Near the end of the show Southside spoke of Fallon and dedicated "Long, Long Time" to him an appropriate tribute with the song's refrain of "Raise your glass to the comrades we lost. My friend it's been a long long time". Cheers Bill!

The high energy 90 minute show before a nearly packed house kicked off with the Dusty Springfield classic "I Only Want to be With You" followed by the Jukes own classic tunes "I Don't Want to Go Home" and "Love on the Wrong Side of Town". The band played some newer material and both "Into the Harbour" and "Princess of Little Italy" resonated with the crowd. Some of the other highlights from the show included "This Time Baby's Gone for Good", "Passion Street", "I Played the Fool", "Talk to Me" which had the crowd on their feet clapping and singing along and animpassioned version of "Without Love". They closed the show with "The Fever" a song written by Bruce Springsteen that Southside has made his own. They returned for a two song encore of "This Time It's Foe Real" and another Springsteen number "Hearts of Stone".

The entire band came and hung out with their fans at the merchandise table signing autographs and posing for photos. Thanks as always to Joe Prinzo and the Jukes crew. For more great upcoming shows at the Seneca Casinos go to www.senecacasinos.com

Concert Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Boz Scaggs oozes cool I thought as he strolled on stage with his windswept hair, untucked dress shirt and jeans.He could pass for your neighbor, a fashion model, your accountant, best friend or your kid's little league coach. That cool smoothness about him transcends to his voice and music too. A laid back blues soul hybrid that isn't flashy or a hit you over the head style it is a more soothing sound that Scaggs has been making for forty years now.

He has played with some of the world's best musicians including Steve Miller, Carlos Santana and Duane Allman. Out on the road in support of his latest release Memphis Scaggs made a rare visit to the area with a stop at the Center for the Arts on the UB North Campus on April 9th, 2013. Best known for his 80's album Silk Degrees Scaggs has always been a bluesman at heart. He offered a large selection of Silk Degrees during the nearly 90 minute set but the new material and the older blues songs is what really stood out. Starting with "Runnin' Blues" and "Dry Spell" Scaggs welcomed the crowd and mentioned that his wife's relatives are from the area and were in the house. A version of Mink Deville's "Mixed Up Shook Up Girl" was served up before Scaggs nearly brought down the house with a rendition of "Rainy Night in Georgia". His buttery velvet voice allowed him to go from the deep low notes to the high parts in the refrain effortlessly. I could have left the show happy right then. "Corinna, Corinna" and "Gone Baby Gone" both from the new disc followed before the unmistakable bass line from Scaggs monster hit "Lowdown" reverberated out of the speakers and brought the crowd to its feet. Scaggs closed the set strong with three more tracks from Silk Degrees, "Harbor Lights", "Georgia" and "Lido Shuffle" that again had the crowd dancing and singing along. Returning for the encore Scaggs played "What Can I Say" also from Silk Degrees before playing his piece de resistance the Fenton Robinson penned blues classic "Loan Me a Dime". The epic ten minute jam originally featured the late Duane Allman trading licks and solos with Scaggs. Those duties tonight were handled by the very capable Drew Zingg a noted session's ace who has worked with Steely Dan, James Taylor, Rickie Lee Jones and others. Scaggs version of "Loan Me a Dime" can be arguably called one of the greatest recording ever. To witness this classic live was a magical moment. When Scaggs was finished with the song he casually waved to the crowd and disappeared into the wings.

Thanks again to the fine folks at the Center for the Arts for bringing these shows to our area. Check out their website for more upcoming shows at www.ubcfa.org

Randle and The Late Night Scandals-
In the last year Randle and the Late Night Scandals have exploded across the Buffalo region hitting audience with an aggressive sound that fuses traditional blues and modern rock styles. This Buffalo based five piece delivers an inspiring performance that never fails to move audiences to their feet and across the dance floor.

www.facebook.com/pages/Randle-and-the-Late-Night-Scandals

Fronted by the very charismatic and talented singer Megan Brown this alternative rock band from Buffalo has been building momentum and a loyal following with some killer performances. Another bright spot for the local music scene Dirty Smile is a band to keep your eyes on.

www.reverbnation.com/dirtysmile

Hard rock and metal outfit Sic Sin knows how to rock with an in your face attitude the way metal should be done. Formed in 2012 this outfit from Tonawanda will only get better with more shows under their belts. Find them on Facebook and hit the like button.

www.facebook.com/SicSin

Kroy Weezy-
Slick beats, deft rhymes and a singular style this Buffalo rapper can throw down with the best of them. They have performed at Broadway Joe’s, Soundlab and more in addition to their Hard Rock Café gig. A prolific artist by the sheer volume of material on their Facebook page they are currently recording their first CD.

Go to www.facebook.com/KroyWeezy for more information.

Low Road Revival-
Formed in 2002 Low Road Revival is one of the most polished bands on the local scene. The band projects a fierce metal sound but always seems to find a blues rock groove to settle into somehow. They have shared the stage with everyone from local Roots Rockers Flatbed and Shaky Stage to metal Gods Mastodon, Anvil, Fear Factory and Hate Eternal. These guys come ready to play at every show.

Find them at www.facebook.com/lowroad.revival.7

Fiona Corinne-
This Pixie esque package of dynamite from Rochester says it best herself on her Facebook page “Fiona Corinne is a local acoustic pop singer and songwriter. Despite the fact that she hates being an ACOUSTIC POP singer, she's making it work... although, if anyone is looking to start a band, you should hit her up. Just saying. Let's rock.”

Check her out at www.facebook.com/FionaCorinneMusic

National CD Reviews - by Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Rosie Flores-Working Girl's Guitar-
From her early days with the Screamin' Sirens and through her illustrious solo career I don't think Rosie Flores has ever released a bad album and her latest Working Girl's Guitar is no different. The title refers to her beloved guitar a James Trussart Deluxe Steel Topcaster that appears on the cover of the disc. The guitar and its rich signature tone are hallmarks of Flores guitar playing. Lots of good stuff on this one including the rocking boast of the title cut "Working Girl's Guitar" and "Little But I'm Loud" and the surf rock vibe of "Surf Demon #5". She tackles a couple of choice covers including Elvis' "Too Much", Janice Martin's "Drugstore Rock and Roll" and George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps". The record is dedicated to the memory of David Lindley and Duane Jarvis as is the track "Yeah Yeah". This girl slays them here. Check it out at www.rosieflores.com

Chuck Leavell-Back to the Woods -
What a resume Chuck Leavell has built over the years. Keyboardist with the Allman Brothers, founder of one of the best and very underrated bands of all time with Sea Level, a solo career and current musical director for the Rolling Stones and he still finds the time to run a tree plantation back in Georgia. On his latest disc titled Back to the Woods-(a tribute to the pioneers of blues piano) Leavell pays homage to the many piano blues men that have influenced him. Some of the artists covered here include Little Brother Montgomery, Leroy Carr, Memphis Slim, Otis Spann and Skip James. He employs a couple of guests on the disc including Keith Richards, John Mayer, Randall Bramlett, Col. Bruce Hampton and Candi Stanton to name a few. Highlights include a duet with Stanton on ""Mean Mistreater", "Boots and Shoes" with Richards and Mayer on guitar, "Southern Casey Jones" and ""Low Down Dirty Dog". The disc also comes with a great booklet that serves as a tutorial to the songs and artists whose music is featured. Go to www.chuckleavell.com

Nils Lofgren-Old School-
Somehow during his very busy schedule touring the world and recording with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Nils Lofgren has released a solo album titled Old School. Lofgren has always been an in demand guitarist with his own outfit Grin and stints with Neil Young and his current gig with the E Street Band. The disc is dedicated to the late Clarence Clemons also a member of the E Street Band. Lofgren has help on the disc from Paul Rogers, Rochester native son Lou Gramm and R&B legend Sam Moore. Good stuff here includes the title cut "Old School" which finds Lofgren ranting about the current state of affairs in the world featuring Gramm on vocals lots of horns and swampy slide guitar from Nils, "Miss You Ray" dedicated to Ray Charles, "Amy Joe Blues" with Rogers helping out on vocals, "Let Her Get Away" co-written with Root Boy Slim and "60 Is The New 18". Lofgren slows it down with some nice guitar and piano on "Irish Angel" and nails it on "Big Dream" with its chorus of "dream big, work hard, stay humble and dance a lot" and a scorching guitar solo mid song. To find out more about Old School and Nils Lofgren check out www.nilslofgren.com

The Tragically Hip-Now For Plan A-
The latest disc from The Tragically Hip titled Now For Plan A doesn't break any new ground musically for the band. It still has that energetic charm and mix we love about The Hip. The only noticeable change perhaps is a more mature sound for the band. The disc features a few future classics for the band and most of the material sounded more vibrant in concert when the band hit the road touring behind the disc. Among the standout tracks here are "At Transformation", "Man Machine Poem", "We Want To Be It", "About This Map" and "Goodnight Attawapiskat". My personal favorite is the title track "Now For Plan A" a dreamy hypnotic cut that features a beautiful accompany vocal from Sarah Harmer. She also lends her vocal charms to the track "The Lookahead".
For more info on The Hip visit www.thehip.com

The Devin Cuddy Band-Volume One-
If the name Devin Cuddy rings a bell it's because he is the son of Blue Rodeo singer Jim Cuddy. A talented young musician in his own right he has released his debut disc with The Devin Cuddy Band titled Volume One. Cuddy has honed his chops with a regular gig at Cameron House in Toronto and the recording has a nice live feel to it. The band (Devin Cuddy-piano/vocals, Nichol Robertson-guitar/mandolin/vocals, Devon Richardson-bass/vocals and Zach Sutton-drums) obviously has some of the country rock influence of Blue Rodeo (What Canadian band in the last twenty five years doesn't?) but Cuddy and band mates influences are steeped in New Orleans and Dixieland Jazz too. Some of the highlights include "Dancin'", "Sidewalk in the South", "East Coast Bred", "Johnny From the Mountain" and "I Got a Girl". Two cuts really standout the twisted break up of "She Ain't Crying Over Me" and the real nice country blues track "Walking". For more about the Devin Cuddy Band and their debut album Volume One go to www.devincuddy.com

Sam Llanas-4 A.M.-
Former BoDeans singer and guitarist Sam Llanas has left that outfit and released a solo effort titled 4 A.M. Llanas has always possessed one of the most beautiful and unique voices in music and the mellow laid back vibe on the disc is best suited to show his vocals. Sparse arrangements with acoustic guitar, percussion, accordion and the occasional string section moves in a new direction from Llanas' days with the BoDeans. The songs are laced with tales of broken love and regrets always good fodder for an artist. Highlights include the title cut "4 A.M.", "Nobody Luvs Me", "Oh, Celia" "The Way Home" and "Oh How I Loved You". Check out Sam Llanas and his solo disc 4 A.M. at www.samllanas.com

Jefferson Grizzard-A Crack in the Door-
Rome, Georgia native singer songwriter Jefferson Grizzard has released a new disc titled A Crack in the Door a mix of Tom Petty, Bob Dylan song styles with a dash of New Orleans all delivered in Grizzard's Southern drawl. Grizzard has been working a lot locally at GCR Studios and Audio Magic Studios. He has played a couple of well received shows at The Sportsmen's Tavern and has been working with a host of the area's finest musicians including his regular drummer Mike Caputy (BMHOF Class of 2002). Grizzard recently got together with our own Prodigal Son Willie Nile (BMHOF Class of 2005) to write some songs for Grizzard's next album. On this one Grizzard shines on the opener "Forces That Fail", "Puppet Show", the funky "I Got the Spirit" and "Ain't Me To Blame". Grizzard gets some help from producer and guitarist Ben McRee and guest Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie) on vocals and harp. Go to www.facebook.com/jeffersongrizzard for more information.

The Realbilly's-Dancehalls and Dives-
Hailing from Cumberland Gap, Tennessee are The Realbilly's and their refreshing new album Dancehalls and Dives. This fourteen song disc features great guitar work and some twangy down home Southern country rock. This is not your current country rock with its fake tales of pick-up trucks and where all the girls look like models. No these are true stories about lost love, deep regret, life on the road and blue collar workers and whores. Authentic comes to mind. Good stuff includes "Princess Sunshine", the rocking "Going to Hell" and "John the Philistine". Other highlights include the title cut "Dancehalls and Dives", "Calloused Hands + Bleeding Fingers", "My Time" and the ballad "Nothing Sacred". What have you got to lose? Go to www.therealbillys.com right now and check them out.

The Bopcats-25 Years of Rock n' Roll-
This seventeen song collection from Richmond, Virginia's The Bopcats assembles various promo, studio and live tracks together on one disc from the band's twenty five year history. A mix of rock and roll with a bluesy rockabilly kick the album is a mix of covers (the Stones "Ventilator Blues", Dave Alvin's "Marie Marie" and Johnny Cash's "Get Rhythm") and originals ("I Don't Want to Be Alone", "Life of Crime" "Crazy Lil Baby", "On A Roll" and "Sweet Thing") penned by longtime band members Gary and Lindy Fralin. Check them out at www.thebopcats.com

Tweed Funk-Love Is-
The sophomore effort from the blues soul and funk outfit Tweed Funk titled Love Is is another fine collection from this Wisconsin based band. Led by smooth vocalist Smokey and guitarist and chief songwriter JD Optekar their refined sound aims for your heart and soul and makes you want to shake that booty a bit. Highlights here include the churchy soulful blues number "Getting Home", "Fine Wine" and "All Over You". A couple of covers include Johnny "Guitar" Watson's "A Real Mother for Ya" and the James Brown's classic "Sex Machine". Visit their website at www.tweedfunk.com

Bill "The Sauce Boss" Wharton-Live at the Green Parrot-
A frequent visitor to Western New York Bill "The Sauce Boss" Wharton has cooked up a new disc this one a live set titled Live at the Green Parrot. The thirteen song disc was recorded at the Key West, Florida club before a raucous crowd. If you are not familiar with Wharton his performances include him making a batch of his famous Gumbo during the show which he then shares with the crowd. Unfortunately the disc doesn't come with "Smell-o-Vision" so we can't smell the Gumbo but the music cooks. Check out "Let The Big Dog Eat", "Gumbo Recipe", "Chicken in the Gumbo" and "Cathead Biscuit Gospel" if you like songs about food or if your taste is for guitar numbers check out "Killer Tone", "Paco's Garden" and "Out in the Night". There is something for everyone on this one. Go to www.sauceboss.com on how to purchase Live at the Green Parrot and to check tour dates for area shows.

The Blasters-Fun on Saturday Night-
The Blasters exploded out of the L.A. music scene in the 80's and were at the forefront of the Roots music movement. Sadly internal squabbles between brothers Phil and Dave Alvin led the band to split up prematurely. Successful solo careers from both and an occasionally reunion along the way have not lasted. Dave continues with a solo career and Phil has regrouped under The Blasters name and released a new disc Fun On Saturday Night. Keepers on this one include the Phil Alvin penned "Breath of My Love", "Please Please Please" featuring Phil's pleading vocals, the title track "Fun On Saturday Night" and the slow blues "No More Nights By Myself". L. A. songstress Exene Cervenka shows up for a duet with Phil on the Carter/Cash classic "Jackson". There is also a version of The Blasters classic "Marie Marie" sung in Spanish. Go to www.blastersnewsletter.com for more information.

Tas Cru-Tired of Bluesmen Cryin'-
The back story on the title of Tas Cru's fifth album Tired of Bluesmen Cryin' came to him from an aspiring sixteen year old female blues performer who was interviewing him. She told him that she didn't write blues song about losing that happy home and stuff she wrote about positive things in her life and was tired of them bluesmen crying. So keeping with that theme the album takes on a celebratory exploration of the blues. Cru, who regularly includes Buffalo on his tour schedule, wrote all eleven cuts here and adds some greasy guitar licks with a mix of acoustic, electric, resonator and cigar box guitars. The title cut "Tired of Bluesmen Cryin'" kicks of the disc in fine fashion other highlights include the churchy vibe on "One More Time", "Sure Do(want to fool around)", the funky blues romp "Try, Oh I Try!" and "Heal My Misery". Two standout tracks here are the "Changin' My Ways" with its mix of pumping organ, harp and greasy guitars and the mellow slow blues track "Dark Side of the Mountain" that closes the disc. You can check out Tas Cru and his new disc Tired of Bluesmen Cryin' at www.tascru.com

Liz Mandeville-Clarksdale-
Keeping the Chicago blues scene alive is Liz Mandeville as a regular performer in the clubs as an award winning songwriter and as one known as much for her guitar chops as her singing. Her fifth album titled Clarksdale after the Mississippi town that many say birthed the blues features blues legend Willie "Big Eyes" Smith longtime drummer for Muddy Waters who passed away during the making of this disc. Check out the down home style on "Mama & Daddy Blues", the bawdy "Roadside Produce Stand" and "Sweet Potato Pie". This risqué style was a staple in the early blues with double entendres and songs about drugs and drink. Mandeville salutes our women in the military on "My Mama Wears Combat Boots" and takes on war mongering politicians on "4:20 Blues". For more information on Liz Mandeville go to www.lizmandeville.com

Sena Ehrhardt Band-Leave the Light On-
To say that Minneapolis based singer Sena Ehrhardt has a set of pipes would be an understatement. The sassy blues singer with awesome vocal dynamics has released a disc on Blind Pig records www.blindpigrecords.com titled Leave the Light On showcasing her talents. Her band led by guitarist and father Ed backs Sena on the funky blues number "My Bad", the title cut "Leave the Light On", "Same Team" and "Hear Me". Father Ed shows off his guitar chops on "Last Chance" and Sena shows all the Diva's and wanna be's how to sing the you know what out of a song on "Lovers Can't Be Friends". You can find out more about the Sena Ehrhardt Band at www.senaehrhardt.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Thirteen is the latest release from seasoned local bluesmen Willie May. The ten songs feature a variety of local artists lending a hand throughout the disc. Doug Yeomans, Dwane Hall, Jim Whitford, Ted Lambert, Tom E. Corsi and Lee Ron Zydeco are but a few of the musicians featured on the disc. The disc kicks off with the track "Dealin' with the Devil" and showcases some nice slide guitar work from May. Other highlights include "Smile" with some fine accordion playing from the master Lee Ron Zydeco, the blues thumper "There It Goes", the Reggae tinged piano tinkler "How Can it Be" and the Trilogy of the Crimson Tempest suite featuring "Time to Go", "All Alone" and "In the Garden". For more about Willie May and his music check out www.williemaymusic.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

With a too cool mix of bluesy funky rock and country boogie woogie The Heavenly Chillbillies have unleashed their first disc the appropriately titled Long Time Coming. This three piece outfit consisting of Gabrial Mayer (guitar and vocals), Earl Irving (bass and vocals) and Mike Olczak (drums) has been pounding out the jams in any venue that would let them play for five years before hitting the recording studio and have perfected their sound for this release. The rock solid rhythm section of Irving and Olczak anchor things down as Mayer whales on the six string. Lots of good stuff on this one including "I Don't Need Drugs To Have a Good Time (I Need Drugs To Have A Good Time With You)", the bouncy blues of "Tell Me Mama", the lyrically hilarious "My Sister's So Mean (She Drinks Gasoline)" and the unlisted track a cover of the Etta James song "Blues is My Business and Business is Good". The piece de résistance here "Buffalo Blues" that covers all things Buffalo like Wide Right, No Goal, the Peace Bridge and the failed Bass Pro among other civic blunders. Priceless. Check these guys out at www.thcbillies.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

With a play on the singing competition show she was a performer on Caitlin Koch has released a five song EP about love and ex's titled The Ex-Factor. Four of the five tracks here were produced by Stephen Sadoff and Nick Veltri for The Sound of Buffalo and the soulful mix of songs suits Koch's talents to a tee. The other track on the disc was handled by Sadoff with Jim Ehinger. Some of the musicians on the disc include the previously mentioned Sadoff, Veltri, and Ehinger along with Ron Davis, Mike Phelps, John Riggi, Ken Kaufman and Ron LoCurto and was recorded at Robbie Konikoff's Audio Magic Studios. Kicking off with the Bee Gee's "To Love Somebody" Koch's soulful and husky voice breathes new life into this classic song. A cover of the Supremes "Stop In The Name of Love" and the Goffin/King weeper "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" are stripped down to voice and piano with dramatic results but the showpiece here is Sam Cooke's "Change Gonna Come" that leaves no doubt that this girl is a world class talent. Go to www.caitlinkoch.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The Buffalo Music Hall of Fame has released Volume Three in their popular series of music from the Hall's inducted members. The compilations have been a mecca for rare and unreleased tracks that has contributed to its popularity and Volume Three is no different with a third of the tracks on this one falling under that category. Unreleased tracks here include McCarthyizm's "Bartender Again-BMHOF Mix", Paul Varga and Dave Elder's "Why Did Those Feelings Change" and Dick Bauerle's "April Fools!". Among the rare tracks are Nelson Starr and the Benjamins' "The One (Wishing You Were Here)", "Bulldog Breaks His Chain" from Stuart Ziff, "Dance of Love and Death" from Eric Andersen and Mark Freeland's "My Best Friend". Other tracks of note include the regional hit "The Heist" from The Unity Band, Mark Winsick's "Turning Wheel", Bob James' "Do You Remember?" and Tom Hambridge's "Some Things Never Change". Weekend, Jessie Galante, Michael Spriggs, Willie Haddath with Phil Dillon also have tracks on the disc. You can purchase the disc at any Buffalo Music Hall of Fame event or at their website www.buffalomusic.org

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

In demand Buffalo born jazz drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. has released a solo disc titled For The Soul. Backed by some of the best jazz artists including the always stellar organist Joey DeFrancesco, guitarist John Hart, saxophonist Jon Irabagon and keyboardist Pat Bianchi the ten song disc is a mix of standards, classics and originals. Too High" from Stevie Wonder, Bob Belden's "Carmen's Caddie" featuring some great sax from Irabagon and Joe Zawinul's classic "Cannonball" shine as does Chick Corea's "Steps" and a funky take on Freddie Hubbard's "Gibraltar". Other highlights include another Zawinul number "Black Market, a cover of Steely Dan's "Josie" and the Intorre penned "Only One". Throughout the disc Intorre drumming is solid but Hart and DeFrancesco are equally impressive here as well. Check out For The Soul and Intorre's other work at www.carmenintorre.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Crash Fuse (Chad Hornberger-vocals/guitar, Chris Weronski-lead guitar, Nick Wnuk-bass, Colin Eberhardt-drums) have released a three song self-titled EP sampler. The disc is a heady mix of alternative and power pop tunesthat would appeal to fans of our own Goo Goo Dolls, Lifehouse or Dave Matthews Band. "Crossroads", "Just A Little" and "Tuition (Am I Letting Go?)" are all good songs and a nice sampler of the bands talents and direction. The band has performed at venues ranging from Club Infinity, The Rapids Theater, Scallywags and the University of Buffalo and has opened for national artists as well. Check them out on Facebook or at www.reverbnation.com/crashfuse

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The sixth release from singer songwriter Davey O titled Testing for Rust is a step forward in his career. A wiser and more seasoned songwriter he has a more focused nuance of the characters that inhibit his songs. According to Davey the title is a metaphor for his songwriting and performances and for a way to constantly challenge yourself and your artistry. He and longtime collaborator Jeffrey Mikulski are assisted here by Jim Palys, Joe Rozler, Jim Whitford and Maggie Zindle on the eight track disc. Highlights include "The Absence of Madalaine" a tale of unfulfilled dreams and regret, "Carnival", the simple goodness of "The Miner's Waltz" a tale of the Gold Rush or anyone who seeks gold and "Eventually" an emotional story of relationships. A bonus live track recorded in Cleveland "I Sleep Well When it Rains" showcases Davey O's live performance style. To find out more go to www.daveyo.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

After a nearly six year hiatus Salt Peter has returned with an eclectic disc of music titled Ameraka that is symbolic of the depressed and repressed times this country faces. A convoluted song cycle about our times that is filled with rage, anger, grooves and lots of loops and samples and some daring and honest opinions and thoughts from the pen of front man Anthony Aversa. Aversa who handles guitars, vocals, keys, samples and percussion is ably assisted by his band mates James Colquitt on bass, Steve Puglisi on drums and Rob Tweedle on keys, samples and jaw harp. Guest musician Eric Crittenden adds sax on a couple of tracks on Ameraka. The disc conjures up influences ranging from Frank Zappa to the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Rage Against the Machine yet is new, fresh, exciting and dangerous sounding sometimes all at once. Aversa's message and musical vision is focused after his time off and he digs deep to get that across to the listener. Highlights include the lead off track "Funky Magazine", the equally funky "Trippin' w/Beelzebub", the SKA style romp "Buffalo Orange Juice", the title cut "Ameraka", "Drop Lock and Load", "Get Your Mama to Push the Car" and "Hawkin's Lament". Glad to have these guys back and speaking out about society's foibles. As stated on the back jacket of the disc "The United States of Miranda-you have the right or remain silent". Check it out at www.reverbnation.com/saltpeterny

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The latest addition to the Buzz Records stable is Breckenwood (Garrett Shea-vocals/rhythm guitar, Nick Bonaventura-lead guitar, Cam Kukla-drums and Will Folckemer-bass) and their debut release Take Me There! a mix of power pop, alternative and classic rock that was recorded and produced along with the band by Grammy nominated Anthony Casuccio. Casuccio adds a nice sonic touch to the material here giving it a radio ready sound. Bonaventura is a standout here adding some nice guitar work to the songs. The band channels comparisons to Green Day and Blink 182 but also mine the influences of Joe Jackson, Matchbox 20 and Maroon 5 throughout the ten song disc. A few of the standouts here include the driving title cut "Take Me There", "Common Fool", "Loser of the Year" and the muscular rocker "Rediscovery". They pull out the old hidden track trick with a piano and strings version of "Loser of the Year" that shows a more mellow side to the band and finishes the disc on a nice note. Check them out at www.facebook.com/breckenwoodmusic

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The appropriately titled second release from The Skiffle Minstrels All God's Children Gotta Dance will have your toes tapping and hands' clapping before the disc is even finished. If not check for your pulse you may be dead. This infectious eleven song collection of Western Swing and Americana music is filled with great songs, great musicianship and great harmonies that makes you want to dance and celebrate. Members of The Skiffle Minstrels include Paul Todaro (bass/vocals), Ron Kowalewski (accordion/vocals), Phil Knoerzer (guitar/harmonica), Maggie Zindle (fiddle/vocals), Randy Bolam (drums) and Gary Meixner (lap steel/additional guitars) with Todaro and Kowalewski handling most of the song writing duties. Check the tracks "The Kings of Western Swing", "Dance Like a Man", the Bill Monroe staple "The Kentucky Waltz" and the title track "All God's Children Gotta Dance". Personal favorites include "The Bus" with its chicken scratch fiddle and the sums it up perfect "Hillbilly Rockabilly Honky-Tonk". Check out The Skiffle Minstrels at www.skiffleminstrels.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Guitar duo Lewis & Klark have a new self-titled release out. After a brief hiatus the instrumental duo consisting of Bob Luterek and Rich Kallay have returned to performing and recording. Sporting a variety of influences of both styles and guitarists they still arrive at a unique sound and style of their own. Elements of Latin, pop, jazz and country all come together for a refreshing change of pace for the ears. Part of this is achieved by their recording style done direct into the soundboard and with no overdubs and the interplay between the two. One will define the melody line and usually stay within the line while the other over lays lead guitar lines with restraint and well-chosen phrases and runs. Highlights include "Kitchen Sink", "Over Easy", "Latin Flair", "Top Down", "Christine" and "Fine Wine". Fans from Pat Metheny to Spyro Gyra will like this one. Check it out at www.lewisandklark.com

(Full disclosure here-Bob Luterek member of Lewis & Klark is owner and president of LKPro.com and Best of WNY.com)

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Rochester's Nick Young has a new CD out titled Truth Is featuring thirteen eclectic roots rockers. Young has started to play more regional shows including a few in Buffalo and Western New York. Working the same musical circles as or own Chris Trapper and The Corrections the new disc features local artist extraordinaire Tim Mroz on bass and organ. Lots of good stuff on this one including the lead off track "Possibilities", "Something In Your Eyes", "Long Decline", my personal fave "Make It Alright" and "Returned To Sender". Ex Wilco drummer Ken Coomer mans the kit on "Gone" for good measure. Check it out at www.nickyoungonline.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Acclaimed poet and singer songwriter Lisa Forrest has released a hauntingly beautiful eleven track CD titled Oh Lake Erie about our rust belt city's decline but still beating heart. Most of the lyrics were first penned as poems that Forrest eventually added music to for this her first full length disc. Recorded at the home studio of Jonathon Hughes who adds bass and organ here, Forrest surrounds herself with some of the best and brightest musicians from Western New York including Buffalo Music Hall of Fame members John Brady on guitar, Jim Whitford on Dobro and pedal steel, Rob Lynch on drums. Other musicians lending a hand include Ronnie Kowalewski, Doug Lambert, Marlene Mathews, David Mussen, Melissa Rapisardi, Paul Todaro and Jonas Westbrook. Check out "Black Dog's Lament", "Dear Lover", "Porcelain", "Sorry Song" and the beautiful title track "Oh Lake Erie". Fans of Kathleen Edwards, Blue Rodeo and Lucinda Williams will fall in love with this disc. Without a doubt one of my favorite local releases of 2011. Go to www.cdbaby.com/cd/lisaforrest

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Building a name over the last year or so with some fine performances including a spot at the annual Music is Art festival, a slot at the Bowman Cup Battle of the Bands and a few club gigs pop metal group Final Conspiracy has released a CD tilted Negative Reflections. Most of the attention has centered on lead guitarist Alexander Matos and his innovative riffing. He along with band mates Patrick Moran and Jessica Zeth on vocals, rhythm guitarist Nivek, Lenzie E. Humphrey on bass and Kevin Grant on drums turn in a tight and melodic twelve song disc recorded at GCR Studios in Allentown. Most of the stuff here works well with Matos guitar a focal point but some work is needed with the lyrical content at times. That's not so much a criticism as something that I'm sure will improve with maturityand as the band grows in their confidence. Check out the tracks "Storm", "Box of Broken Glass", "Until Tomorrow" and "Loved for the Unloved". A bright star on the local scene you can find out more about Final Conspiracy by visiting their web site at www.reverbnation.com/finalconspiracy or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/finalconspiracy

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Hailing from Rochester and looking to spread their influence and musical sounds is the band Hinkley (John DePuy-guitar/vocals, Charles Leport-drums, Dennis Mariano-guitar/keys, Jona Toll /bass and Will Veeder-vocals) and their new release Heaven is High. The ambitious fourteen song disc is a nearly seamless cycle of songs that could be described as Pink Floyd meets Pearl Jam with a dose of Fleet Foxes and My Morning Jacket. Lots of good stuff here to discover including "Walnut Fire", "Fleetwood Folds", the title track "Heaven is High", "Everybody's Gunna Sing", "He Fought a War" and "Jack Daniel's Song". Go to www.hinkleysounds.com to find out more.

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

For years now Jim Crean has been one of the local scenes premier metal/rock acts and his latest release Velvet Crush shows he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. Velvet Crush is another collection in a long line of releases from Crean full of melodic heavy riff rock guitar and howling vocals done right. Recorded in various studios in Toronto, Buffalo and Rochester the disc features Crean on vocals along with Phil Naro(ex-Talas currently with D Drive) and Don Mancuso(ex-Black Sheep and Lou Gramm and currently with D Drive) on guitar, Steve Major also on guitar, Glenn Nash on drums and Stan Miczek on bass. Most of the tracks here were written by Crean and Naro including "It Couldn't Get Any Better", "Taste of Reality", "She Goes Down" and "Daytime Friends(Night Time Lovers)". The thunderous rocker "Redlight" shows Crean at his best belting out his vocals with sheer abandon. A cover of Talas' "Crystal Clear" written by Mitch Perry and Ralph Morman from the Talas album Live Speed on Ice and Billy Sheehan's "My Heart Breaks Down" are also included.You can find out more about Jim Crean and his new release Velvet Crush by visiting www.jimcrean.net

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

David Abbatoy and Cynthia McCaffrey better known as the duo Busted Stuff has released a very enjoyable eight song disc titled Bitter Cold. Winners of numerous local music awards over the years the duo is one of the more consistent and beloved performers on the local scene. Recorded at their home studio the disc features all original music with stark lyrics from Abbatoy indicative of the album title. His guitar work anchors down each song on the disc in its own right but it is McCaffrey's sublime violin playing that absolutely shines throughout. Outstanding tracks here include the haunting ballad and title cut "Bitter Cold" featuring some fine singing from Abbatoy, "Pray To Rain" with an almost Goo Goo Dolls feel to it, the darkly spooky "Mercy Cry" and the McCaffrey penned instrumental "New Horizon" featuring her signature violin and an electric midi/mandolin. Check out www.bustedstuffmusic.com for more information about this eclectic duo.

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

With the rebirth of the Erie Canal Harbor what a better time to celebrate and honor the rich heritage of that era with the introduction of The Canal Street String Band and their new CD Introducing The Canal Street String Band. The band consisting of Dave Ruch on guitar, banjo, mandolin and vocals, Phil Banaszak on fiddle, mandolin and vocals and Buffalo Music Hall of Fame member Jim Whitford on upright bass, Dobro and vocals plays a style of Bluegrass, sea shanty and folk music featuring traditional and newly penned songs influenced by the maritime and traveling workers of that era and passed down over the ages. The band weaves their magic on "Hang Me (Been All Around This World)", "Waltz in Four", "Rambler Gambler", "Canal Street Breakdown", "Shadowland" and the always popular traditional number "Shenandoah" along with seven other tracks on the disc. Destined to be the "house band" for our summertime and water front you can find out more about The Canal Street String Band at www.canalstreetstringband.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

I guess you can say that one of the signs of success in the music industry today is to appear on American Idol. Western New York's own Tanya Diona has appeared as a background vocalist on Idol for the last few seasons as part of Ray Chew's house band and is probably a better singer than quite a few of the contestants. In addition to backing up the contestants on the show and on their subsequent recordings she has performed with Beyoncé, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Tom Jones and more on Idol. In her down time she has found the time to release her own CD titled Nothing to Prove…Something to Say. The fifteen songs on the disc are a funky mix of R&B and soul with both up tempo numbersand ballads showing her dynamic vocals. Diona recorded some of the tracks at Audio Magic in Buffalo with Robbie Konikoff and Mike Rorick helping along with guitarist Kenny Hawkins and vocalist Joey Diggs lending a local touch to the disc. One of the other outstanding contributors is Diona's husband and musical collaborator Russell Graham who adds his many talents (production, writing, playing and more) to the proceedings. Lots of good stuff here (something that is lacking from many of today's recording artists and recordings) including "Family Reunion", "Deliver Me", "Get Your Sexy On", "Let It Roll" and "The Land of Funky". Graham steps into the spotlight with a solo turn on "Love Reflection" before joining his wife for a duet on the Eric Benet penned "Spend My Life With You" that is pure magic. Well-chosen covers of the Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. hit "You Don't Have To Be A Star (To Be In My Show)" and the Rufus and Chaka Khan hit "Once You Get Started" are keepers also. Check out Tanya Diona at www.tanyadiona.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

The band 20 Years Later is a project from three friends from high school who decided after a twenty year break to get back together and record some new original music. Consisting of Tim Bertch (vocals/guitar), Marc Fruth (vocals/keys) and PJ Lorenzo (vocals/guitars) they recruited Mike Lorenzo (bass) and Greg Arnone (Drums) for their new disc titled Better Later Than Never. Produced by Buffalo Music Hall of Fame member Dick Bauerle (Class of 1988) and mastered at Abbey Road Studios (yes, that Abbey Road Studios) the recording has a clean pop/rock sheen to the songs. Echoes of the Fab Four along with The Grassroots, Cheap Trick, Moody Blues, Big Star and more can be heard from the band. They even turn in their own take of Big Star's "Septembur Gurls' here. Other tracks of note include "Makes Me Shy", "Letters From Moscow" and "Strange Days". You can check out 20 Years later at www.20-years-later.com

CD Review - By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com

Just a short hop down the 90 to Rochester is where Grand Canyon Rescue (Steve Day/Dobro, Jim Howe/banjo, Tom Mahoney/guitar, Jimmy McAvaney/drums, Miles McHugh/guitar and Ron Parmoda/bass) calls home. On their latest release Dirt Road Highway they offer up ten tracks of Roots music filled with harmony, guitars, banjos and Dobro. "Gabriel's Horn" would make the Carter Family proud, "You're No Good" has a rootsy groove, and "18 Wheels" give a nod to Buffalo. "Abilene" and "Christmas Time" are worth checking out as well. Recalls some of the fine work of Chris Hillman and Herb Pederson. Go to www.grandcanyonrescueepisode.com

Lewis and Klark Guitar Duo Jazz/Rock original and cover music for weddings and corporate or private events