Saturday, November 18, 2023
Thursday, November 16, 2023
Ezekial - BLK HWY music review/interview
EZEKIAL - Buffalo, NY
Exclusive interview with Ezekial singer Chris Dimmick by Joe Tell.
JT: Please describe your first musical memory, why was it so memorable?
CD: When I was 11 years old, I got a cheap Harmony guitar for Christmas. We didn't have a lot of money, but that guitar looked like a Gibson to me. I played that guitar every day, I knew back then I wanted to be a rock star. By the time I was 12, I was writing my own songs. They weren't great, but pretty good for a kid. I used to go to Uno's pizza to play guitar and sing for pizza and change for pinball. That was my start and I'll never forget it.
JT: Who influenced you and who are your favorite singers/bands?
CD: First it was Ian Gillan from Deep Purple and Jon Anderson from Yes. I'd sing along with Made In Japan from Deep Purple and Yessongs from Yes and pretend I was onstage. Then I began to imitate David Lee Roth (Van Halen), Rob Halford (Judas Priest), Steve Perry (Journey) and Biff Byford (Saxon). These are all still my favorites today.
JT: Is there any song(s) that never fail to move you every time you listen to them?
CD: I wrote 2 songs on Blk Hwy with the band that move me. The first one is called When Heaven Calls. It's for a fantastic guitar player and an old friend, Mike Biddlecom. Mike, Joe and I were in a band called Vicious Circle. Mike passed away from cancer and is deeply missed. The second song is Hard Moving On. I wrote that song after my son's passing in 2018 from suicide. Please, if anybody out there is thinking of suicide, please talk to someone. Anyone's life can change in the blink of an eye, so please call someone. (Call Suicide Prevention Coalition 716-834-3131 (Erie County) or 1-800-273-8255 (National). Every time I sing or hear these songs, it takes me to a place and hurts my heart. They also make me smile, remembering all the good times we had.
JT: What singer(s)/musician(s) would you love to meet?
CD: Jon Anderson from Yes, David Lee Roth (Van Halen), Biff Byford (Saxon) and Jared Leto from 30 Seconds To Mars. I think he's a truly great actor and talented singer. I think it's pretty awesome to be great at both.
JT: How long have you been singing? What inspires you to continue singing?
CD: I've been singing for 45 years. I hate to show my age, but it's true. I just love to perform. I love seeing people laugh and smile and headbang when I'm singing. Music keeps me going, rock and roll keeps me young. Alice Cooper and Mick Jagger are still out there performing to this day.
JT: Please tell us your most memorable story from when Ezekial was on tour.
CD: Well, there are many stories but most I can't talk about. Names and dates would have to be changed to protect the innocent lol! But there was this one time when we had just finished a show at the Gasworks in Toronto, Canada. We went back to the hotel with a bunch of people from the gig and somebody (?) threw a bottle of beer through a picture window onto the cars in the parking lot below, breaking the windshield with glass everywhere. Well, let me just say that every dime we made on that show went to paying for the cost of the damages. The band ate dorito sandwiches and tuna for the next couple of days while we were on tour in Canada.
JT: Describe your perfect day, musically or otherwise.
CD: My perfect day is seeing all of my friends, loved ones and friends happy, healthy and safe. Musically, singing until I can't sing no more or maybe just driving one of my hot rods down the black highway.
JT: Where can Ezekial fans buy music and band merchandise?
CD: Right now, all our music and merch is available at our shows. If you see any of the band members out in the clubs or on the street, just ask us and we'll get whatever you want to you somehow. Thank you for all your support in advance.
JT: When is your next live show with Ezekial?
CD: May 4th at The Rockin' Buffalo Saloon with special guests' Prezence. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
Here's a few pics from Ezekial's last performance at the Rockin' Buffalo Saloon.
Latest show flyer from a 10/14/23 Ezekial performance with special guests' Prezence.
EZEKIAL's Newest release is called BLK HWY. Music review by Joe Tell.
The first song on BLK HWY is called Come On. Come On delivers all the rock and roll goods you would expect from EZEKIAL. Ezekial is known for powerful guitars (Steve TisLaretz), pounding drums (Jon White), deep, growling bass (Rich Nicholas) and roaring vocals (Chris Dimmick). The track starts with an amazing drum volley followed by some aggressive, metallic sounding guitar and bass rhythms. The soaring vocals lift the track up into overdrive with a spirited and energetic delivery. The overall sound can best be described as high energy hard rock or heavy metal. Come On becomes a battle cry and a call to arms to get ready for the sonic assault that is to come.
Round-N-Round is a hard rock love ballad about a partner who is indecisive about a romantic relationship. The musical track features a beautiful, flat-picked guitar rhythm that never overpowers the vocal melody. The percussion track adds some extra flair with a tambourine and harmonious chimes throughout the song.
Hard Moving On is a very special song about the passing of Chris' son. This one is made me a little emotional having met him and having known Chris all these years. You can hear the intense feeling in Chris' voice as he sings his heart out.
Long Time Back marks the return of Buffalo's hard rock legends, Ezekial. A chugging guitar brings the song in and establishes the heavy rhythm. A bluesy and soulful slide guitar set the stage for the vocals to begin. The lyrics convey the rebellious and rocking history of Ezekial and celebrates its return to the WNY music scene. The layered vocal harmonies on the chorus sound sweet and highlight Chris' vocal talents. The bass takes center stage as it brings in a harmonious harmonica solo. I wasn't expecting a harmonica solo, so I was pleasantly surprised and immediately drawn further into the sounds of Long Time Back. Long Time Back is my favorite song on Blk Hwy. Long Time Back hooked me the very first time I heard it, as it shows how talented the band really is with its slide guitar and harmonica solo and outro.
A low, pulsating keyboard establishes the mood for Time Will Tell. A beautiful guitar intro adds harmony to the bottom end the keys provide. The vocals convey a melancholy feeling with a moving delivery. I can picture the silhouette of a lone figure walking alone in the rain in my mind as I listen to Time Will Tell.
A deep, solid bass line and a tom-tom heavy drum beat kick off Every Little. The song is driven by the tribal back beat the rhythm section lays down. The vocals establish the melody and are relatable as they sing about you, me and heart-felt feelings. The vocal harmonies sound sweet and haunting, enhancing the lyrics.
Ezekial takes you on a heavy metal journey with the title track, Black Highway. The kind of rockin' road trip with the hard twists and turns that only Ezekial can provide. A heavy detuned guitar starts the ride and the bass clears the road for the guitar solo. The vocals provide the power and fuel to see the journey through. The lyrics give fair warning of what could happen when you travel on the black highway with Ezekial. A vibra-slap adds some extra juice to the journey. Black Highway is one of my favorite songs on this release.
Heaven Calls is a song Chris and I have a personal connection to. Heaven Calls is dedicated to guitarist, Mike Biddlecom (R.I.P.), who lost his battle with cancer in 2016. The lyrics are about Mike looking forward to seeing heaven and him saying goodbye to his fiance, Cheryl. I thought of all the good times Chris and I had with Mike as I listened to this one.
Dream starts with a sound bite from Chris Dimmick. It made me chuckle and set the mood up to enjoy the rest of the song. The vocals and lead guitar take turns dominating the melodic, metallic mix. The song conveys a feeling of fun loving playfulness in the lyrics and upbeat rhythm.
Beginnings serves as the intro to Back Off. Back Off is a straight up, hard driving rock and roll song. The tempo hits hard and moves steadily along at a fist-pumping inducing pace.
Bonus Tracks: Rich Nicholas is featured on Back Ta U. Rich lets it all hang out, singing and playing piano on what sounds like a demo of a song that was never fully completed. The melody still shines through the rough mix.
Sharon is a live demo that was done in one take. This song has never been played live and this is only recording of this song to date. Once again, this is very melodious song that features Chris belting it out on vocals. His performance is stirring and dynamic. This track features Jamie Z. and Rich Tucker.
BLK HWY confirms the fact that Ezekial have matured as songwriters and musicians.
I highly recommend Ezekial's Blk Hwy to any fan of hard rock and heavy metal. Blk Hwy is sure to please.
Richie and Bob Avino enjoying a brew @ the Buffalo Music Awards 2009.
Ezekial circa 2005.
Hear Ezekial - https://www.reverbnation.com/ezekial
See Ezekial on FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063083266385
This post is dedicated to Christopher Barron Dimmick 3/27/86 - 1/7/2018.
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Colorado Tombs - Buffalo, NY
Colorado Tombs, Buffalo NY
Introducing a new WNY band, Colorado Tombs. Colorado Tombs brings a fresh and energetic approach to rock music, blending powerful guitar riffs, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their dynamic live shows have garnered them a dedicated fanbase, and they're known for creating an electric atmosphere wherever they perform.
With their recently released debut album, "King of Sorrow," Colorado Tombs showcases their versatility by seamlessly blending genres and delivering a collection of tracks that resonate with listeners on multiple levels. From hard-hitting anthems to introspective ballads, their music has something for everyone.
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Thursday, October 5, 2023
Dethbed - One More Youtube Music Video debut
Dethbed, the only 716/925 musical connection going today.
The Dethbed has deep roots in Buffalo NY which extend all the way out to 925 California. The entire musical project is owned and operated by one unlike any other, Angst Bohemic. (3rd from left). Special thanks to Bill, Ace and Johnny.
Check out the brand new live action youtube video for One More:
https://youtu.be/z68b1UxJKBI?si=njo9aUFcDksjAE62
Check out the animated lyric video for One More:
https://youtu.be/wIIK5vkFxe8?si=yshVKzGH0BvS_FZs
Lyrics composed & performed by Angst Bohemic. Guitar: Adrian Ybarra (ACE SOS). Lead Guitar: Duggan Murray. Bass: Troy Alexander. Drums: Chris Lujan (Free Animal)
Original composers of the rhythm section: Curran Evans & Rick Andolina. Video production by Bezl Labonte, Sarasota, FL. Recorded at Trident Studios in Pacheco, CA. Engineer: Juan Urteaga. Original production recorded and composed at Shine On Studio in Oakland, CA. Co-Producer: David Hughes (Demonic Dave).
Update: Medic Sun has morphed into what has now become Dethbed.
Medic Sun is a new metal band that is based in California. Medic Sun is an on going project that continues to be spearheaded by (Buffalo) lead singer Angst (RULE!). Medic Sun utilizes a talented roster of multi-talented musicians from the 716 coast to the 925 coast to create an aggressive sound all it's own.
Lead singer Angst Bohemic showing off a copy of Buffalo Rock City from GCR Studios in Buffalo, NY.
Johnny Panic (Drums), Angst (Lead Vocals) and Ace (Guitars) from GCR Studios.
Medic Sun can be heard on soundcloud, see the link below...
Medic Sun/Dethbed copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved.
Sunday, October 1, 2023
Buffalo Rock City II Album Release Party
Buffalo Rock City ALIVE! A Live Tribute To KISS featuring live Music Is Art performances from KISS THIS! and a special vocal performance of Hard Luck Woman by Robby Takac, founder of Music Is Art and Buffalo's own Goo Goo Dolls.
"Buffalo Rock City ALIVE!" features six performances from KISS THIS!’s live archive, going back to 2017, with 4 songs recorded during the 2021 (the 19th annual) Music Is Art Festival, run by Goo Goo Dolls co-founder Robby Takac. Robby and KISS THIS!’s connection dates to 2015, when the band was asked to open for the Goo Goo Dolls’ main stage performance at the 13th annual Music Is Art Festival.
KISS THIS!’s John Jeffrey (portraying original KISS guitarist, the “Spaceman” Ace Frehley), Taylor Stursa (bassist, as the tongue-wagging “Demon” Gene Simmons), Kevin Blakita (guitarist, as the “Starchild” Paul Stanley), and Julius Giambelluca (drummer, as “the Fox” Eric Carr) all perform on the live recording. John and Taylor participated in an additional special "Buffalo Rock City" set with drummer Shawn Przybylak and guitarist Gene Schmidt, both featured predominantly on the original release. Guest vocalists from the “Buffalo Rock City" album reprised their parts on “ALIVE!,” including Western New York talents Jody Velletta (Dodriver), Nat Peace (Judas Priest tribute band, Call for the Priest and the Rush tribute, Analog Kids), plus Casey Moyer (716 Dance Band), and Robby Takac, himself.
Lockport native, John Peace, (a great local producer and father of "Buffalo Rock City" alumnus vocalist Nat Peace) mixed the new production to “perfection,” notes John Jeffrey. “Mr. Peace has assembled and remixed professional live releases from a range of acts including the Beach Boys and Pink Floyd, and he’s supportive of all things hard rock and heavy metal." Having such an extensive background in working on live recordings made Peace an obvious choice to have mix the album.
Eventually the Johns—Peace and Jeffrey—co-produced "Buffalo Rock City ALIVE!" with the best sounding recordings from the KISS THIS! audio archive, along with the songs preserved from the Music Is Art performance.
The album’s artwork was done by renowned KISS fan artist Nobuya Tamaki, who has many of his pieces of art used by KISS. The design pays homage to the Gene Simmons white room/blood session done in 1977 with Lynn Goldsmith to promote "KISS ALIVE II."
Each “Buffalo Rock City ALIVE” CD comes with a randomly inserted trading card, featuring photos of the members of KISS THIS! and the Buffalo Rock City 2021 Music Is Art performers.
(I was pleasantly surprised by the super rare Julius Giambelluca card in my promo copy)
All proceeds will be donated to Music Is Art.
"Buffalo Rock City ALIVE!" tracklisting:
1. “Psycho Circus” performed by KISS THIS!
Recorded in Tonawanda, NY at Niawanda Park 8/4/18.
2. “I've Had Enough (Into the Fire)” performed by Buffalo Rock City. Recorded in Buffalo, NY at Music Is Art 9/11/21.
3. “Freak” performed by Buffalo Rock City.
Recorded in Buffalo, NY at Music Is Art 9/11/21.
4. “War Machine” performed by KISS THIS!
Recorded in West Seneca, NY at the Rockin' Buffalo Saloon 1/21/17.
5. “Back on the Streets” performed by Buffalo Rock City.
Recorded in Buffalo, NY at Music Is Art 9/11/21.
6. “Hard Luck Woman” performed by Buffalo Rock City featuring the Music Is Art founder and Goo Goo Dolls alumni Robby Takac. Recorded in Buffalo, NY at Music Is Art 9/11/21.
7. “Shock Me” performed by KISS THIS!
Recorded in Hamburg, NY at Memorial Park 7/5/19.
8. “Lick It Up” performed by KISS THIS! with Debbie Knight from the Knight Crew. Recorded in North Tonawanda, NY at Gateway Harbor 6/23/21.
9. “Beth” performed by KISS THIS! Recorded in North Tonawanda, NY at Gateway Harbor 7/26/17.
10. “New York Groove” performed by KISS THIS!
Recorded in North Tonawanda, NY at Gateway Harbor 7/25/18.
Special thanks to Kevin Blakita and KISS THIS!
Sunday, September 24, 2023
Forever Green Music - Buffalo, NY
Forever Green Music, Buffalo NY.
Greenlight Networks Winter Holiday Sing Along. Hosted by the NT Neighborhood Watch.
Sunday, December 3rd, 2023. 5 - 7pm Gateway Harbor, Sweeney Street. Sing along with Matt's Music Christmas Carolers and Forever Green Music (Danny Manzella, Joe Tell, Tommy Nowocien and Special guest vocalist, Lisa Hubbard.) Your Life Ethereal Dreams will have their virtual igloo. There will refreshments for sale. We will be collecting new unwrapped toys for Rockin' with Santa toy drive. Santa and other surprises. Lumber City Winter Walk, North Tonawanda.
John Young, Electric Fender Bass.
Tony Chimera (55 Main) percussionist.
Forever Green's latest video for the song Tropical Dog Walk.
Guitarist John Cameron and his wife Wanda.
The best drummer in the world! Bill Mason.
Guitarist and Vocalist for KISS THIS! Kevin Blakita.
10/2/18: Just uploaded 4 new songs to the FG reverbnation page and linked them up to the FGMusic FB page and my JoTell WNYMusic page. These songs will be on the new FG CD.
4/29/17 Forever Green Repercussions CD art.
Thanks you to Loft Studios and Jim Sommer (Cock Robin) for putting it all together.
6/11/16: Aside from reviewing local music and writing graphic novel reviews I also record original music with my friend, Danny Manzella as Forever Green. We just released a new song called 8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush which I am really proud of. Originally a duo, Dan and I like to have our good friends come down to contribute parts to our original songs. It's interesting to hear them play along and it makes the entire recording experience that much more fun as they each add their unique talents to our music. I would like to recognize everyone's contributions to the song as well as Dan's unique vocals and Mike's outstanding drumming. Great Job and Thank You!
8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush began a simple basic track so we agreed that there was plenty of room for soloing and improvisation from a few good friends.
Here's the breakdown of guest stars and what they added to the final mix.
My old friend, Jack Branka, agreed to play electric guitar as I played acoustic guitar on the original session. Jack played guitar in my first band so I thought it would a great idea to have him come down and play. He played awesome and his rhythm/lead guitar work is heard prominently in the mix. As I listened to the first few takes of the song I thought it would be great to have a female vocal singing along. Jenelle Duguay agreed to sing and her outstanding vocals add alot! to the overall sound of the song. Brian Pond added some really cool sounds with his wah-wah lead guitar. Last but not least, Tommy Leach Jr. contributed a sweet sounding lead bass solo and Justin Leach added a fourth lead guitar. Their playing comes into the song later around the 6 minute mark or so. Mike Boncaldo mixed and mastered the song which will be on a new Forever Green CD sometime soon. We hope you enjoy listening to the song as much as we enjoyed playing on it.
If you want to hear the 8 1/2 foot Ganja Bush song here is a direct link to it through our Reverbnation music page https://www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2/song/26079670-8-12-foot-ganja-bush
Facebook music page link https://www.facebook.com/Forever-Green-557646644428742/
Thanks for listening and any comments are welcome.
10 Years In The Baking CD art.
Forever Green
"10 Years In The Baking"
CD Review
This acoustic Americana duo are Danny Manzella - All Lyrics, Lead Vocals, Harmonica, and Joe Tell - Guitars and Bass, with a host of guest players who helped bring this cool menagerie together. Danny also plays with 55 Mainand Eminence Front. Other special guest musicians on this disc are: Tony Chimera on Percussion; Vince Mastrantonio (The Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher) - Producer; Brian Pond - Lead Guitar; Tommy Leach Jr. - Bass; Justin Leach - Lead Guitar (both from the River Rocks band), and Mike Boncaldo (Chunkpipe) - Drums. These various musicians make appearances and lend their talents to this 16-song debut CD, with some remixed material from their first EP, with many interesting additions.
Getting it all going is "Senorita", going for an old-west type sound, like an outlaw and a Mex that's not enough, Tommy Leach Jr. is laying down solid bass. Drums are supplied by Mike Boncaldo. It's a story of a man in love with someone, whose father doesn't approve. The first verse says it all, "I know a girl Mariana, her presence set me afire, her flame was like the night, full of lust and desire. She walked from the canteena, from there I was under her spell, to me she seemed like an angel, could it been the wishing well. One night her Papa saw me creeping out the door. He screamed, I'll kill you señor, you won't see my daughter no more. She looked out from the window. She screamed: 'No Papa, No.' He came a-runnin' at me, now Papa run no more." The chorus here is sung like a serenade! "Empty Room Jump", actually a darker tune than one might realize, written about a man whose girl ain't comin' back. Tommy's brother Justin Leach is an incredible lead guitarist, and it's quite evident in his solo. Tony Chimera has his infectious percussion going. We love the guitar, which brings a fresh sound.
Just a simple ballad with a certain feel, "A Girl's Name", and one of their very first recordings as a band, is an acoustic-laden track. The singing and lyrics are emotional, "Sometimes I can't stop a tear from falling up in eye, cause I can't help it baby, I feel for you. I can't help the poor, not every single poor man I know, but I can try to do my part, each day, by and by."
"She Left" features Brian Pond laying down a superb groove, with Dan hopping in and improving the tune with some harp. Tony is chugging along with his style of bongos and various other percussion instruments. Love the mellow vibe and simplicity. Danny sings with passion and right from the soul. Strumming rock, upbeat acoustic and furious singing is how "Saw A Rose", kicks off and continues. It's definitely one of our favorites. It tells a tale of disillusionment over a relationship gone south. "Saw a rose, was not red, saw a rose, was not red. The place we sleep at night, is just our bed. See at night it's just our house, ain't no love nest baby, it's just our house, just a husband, just a spouse. Blue I feel is all around, when you shout and scream and try to run me out I think we know, Lord we just don't save. Go on and with it babe, there after day. Yeaaa!"
Clean with pleasant sounding acoustic guitar begins "I'd Find My Way". It's mixed in a slightly different vocal track. It conveys a feeling of sitting around and jamming, and having a great time. "When You're Near Me" is a slower, more soothing tune, with its harmonica, bongos, and fine bass lines by Tommy Leach Jr. Vocals here are lower toned, yet still powerful. We truly enjoyed the music, singing, and all the other elements cleverly placed, making it another one of our favorites. The chorus "Cause it's you and me babe, I get the feeling it will always be. Yea, it's you and me babe, when you're near me I feel free", are lyrics that bring a warm, loving feeling, and such a positive vibe. Enjoying the harmonica and pleasant chords on "To See You Again" (one of their older songs) was performed live, but was never recorded or released until now.
A well-written and performed guitar intro pushes us into "Waves". Written about many different kinds of waves, it's an older song, which was a task to sing live for Danny. Powerful guitar strumming and more fantastic vocals again here. It's the duo at its finest! It's a slightly different version than the live one on their debut, with no percussion.
A rockabilly and country blending makes for a cool mix for the theme behind "Greener Pastures". Again, it's another of their older classics from the early days. In between the verses, a mean harmonica plays out.
"Horse Behind The Plow Blues", is a simple blues tune the band keeps coming back to. Playing alongside them on Lead Guitar is Brian, another appearance by Mike on Drums and we can't keep Tony away from adding his talent!
"Final Wish Before Goodbye" is a song written about an indecisive man trying to determine where his relationship stands. Slowed up, with ringing guitar and vocals, and the harmonica was brought out for the occasion.
In "Fall Down Blues", Danny's singing his lungs out with lines like, "If you look at me and told me you wish I was dead, I'd still love you baby, I'm like that in the head"; and then, "a trip up the country thought would do us good. Instead treats me like a dummy made out of wood". He showcases his soulful and bluesy voice, and sings with heart. Acoustic guitar, uptempo rhythm and incredible vocals really make this a fun song to listen to. If you love Folk/Americana rock then this is your jam! We enjoyed the lyrics, speaking of going out to country, just to get away and clear the mind. It was their first song recorded as a band, and used to kick off a few of their shows too; it's the one that started it all.
One of Joe Tell's all-time faves is "Old Dead Flea Blues", describing an acid-drenched trip through the Everglades. With aggressive guitar that has attitude, an unexpected change to a bluesy-based bridge keeps the ears intrigued.
Talk about an old school vibe, "Exactly What You Did" does exactly that, sounding as if it's being played on an antique turntable, with all it's perfect imperfections. The mood that comes to mind is of being in the swamps and hanging on the porch, and is the finest of the blues! Standard beat, harmonica and gritty vocals are featured here.
Concluding this awesome release is an instrumental written by Joe, dedicated to his wife, "Melody For Maria." The track was produced by Vincent Mastrantonio (Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher), Joe Tell is featured on guitar.
Thanks to Joe for providing this CD for review and giving us the opportunity to share great new music, with powerful lyrics and vocals! Please visit their Reverbnation site or CDbaby.com for information on the band, their music, and upcoming events.
Track Listing
"Senorita"
"Empty Room Jump"
"A Girl's Name"
"She Left"
"Saw A Rose"
"I'd Find My Way"
"When You're Near Me"
"To See You Again"
"Waves"
"Greener Pastures"
"Horse Behind The Plow Blues"
"Final Wish Before Goodbye"
"Fall Down Blues"
"Old Dead Flea Blues"
"Exactly What You Did"
"Melody For Maria"
Update 3/26/16: Forever Green - self titled - EP review
Forever Green is a musical collaboration between musicians Dan Manzella and Joe Tell and the title of their new five song EP. Treading territory somewhere between Father John Misty and Hot Tuna the album is a stripped down affair with most tracks feature just guitar, bass and vocals with the occasional harmonica or percussion. "Fall Down Blues" and "When You're Near Me" are straight up acoustic blues numbers while "I'd Find My Way" is a slow ballad and "Joey's Song" an instrumental is almost in the realm of psychedelic mysticism with its experimental sounds. Rounding out the album is "Waves" a track that was recorded live at the Tudor Lounge. For more information about Forever Green visit them on the web at www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2
Review By Bob Silvestri http://www.bestofwny.com/
Thank You Bob!
Update 3/3/16 Forever Green to be continued!
What a great time tonight with our special guests Joe Tell and Danny Manzella. A big thanks to Linda Hastreiter for giving us the scoop on our upcoming benefit Variety Show on March 11th at and for The Iron Island Museum. Download the show and take a listen. We guarantee you will giggle.
http://www.thinktwiceradio.com/patsy-dottie/audio/160303a.mp3
Forever Green "Forever Green" CD Review
This two piece Folk, Acoustic based band out of the WNY area is made up of Danny Manzella (55 Main and The Lost Riders Band) - Lead Vocals, Harmonica, and Joe tell - Acoustic & Electric Guitar. Guiseppe Tell is listed as playing Bass. The CD features guest musicians, Vincent Mastrantonio ( The Vincent James Explosion, Carina & The Six String Preacher ) - Lead Guitar / Keyboards on Joey's song, Tommy Leach Jr. - Bass on When You're Near Me, and Tony Chimera ( 55 Main ) - Bongos, percussion on When You're Near Me.
Really enjoyed the first track, "Fall Down Blues". Danny's singing his lungs out with lines like "If you look at me and told me you wish I was dead, I'd still love you baby, I'm like that in the head" and especially on "A trip up the country thought would do us good. Instead treats me like a dummy made out of wood". A very soulful and bluesy voice and sings with heart. The acoustic guitar, up tempo rhythm and incredible vocals really make this a fun song to listen too. If you love folk / Americana rock this is for you then. I enjoyed the lyrics, telling the story of going out to country, just to get away and clear the mind.
"When You're Near Me" is a slower and soothing tune, with it's harmonica, bongos, and fine bass lines by Tommy Leach Jr. The vocals are lower toned, yet still powerful. I truly enjoyed the music, singing, and all the other elements added, making it one off my favorites. The chorus "Cause it's you and me babe, I get the feeling it will always be. Yea, it's you and me babe, when you're near me I feel free" are lyrics that bring a warm and loving feeling. Such a positive vibe. Clean and a pleasant sounding acoustic guitar begin
"I'd Find My Way". Mixed in slightly different vocal track. This track gives me the feeling of sitting around and jamming, just enjoying life.
"Joey's Song" is an instrumental dedicated to Joe's son Joseph. A precisely played guitar, the sound is perfectly clear, you can hear every note ring out, along with a low siren sound in the background is the first part that segues into a strumming guitar and thumping bass. To close it out, they have a special guest Vince Mastrantonio play an incredible guitar solo. Some sweeping and bending of notes on the neck and frets, shows why he is one of the best around.
"Waves" is a live song that gives you a taste of what this band is about. Acoustic, vocals, and a bongo all make a cool song. The energy is positive and gives a soothing feeling. This CD is just a sample from the band. They are working and finishing up their new disc.
Thanks to Joe for sending in the CD. Really loved listening to it! For more on the band, music, please visit Reverbnation or their cdbaby page.
Tracklist: "Fall Down Blues' ( 2007) "When You're Near Me" "I 'd Find My Way ( Vocal Remix ) "Joey's Song" ( Dedicated to Joseph Jacob Militello ) "Waves" - live Tudor Lounge 03/04/12
Update 1/28/16 Forever Green on The Patsy Silver and Dottie Kenney Variety Show
What a wonderful conversation with the talented Joe Tell and Maria today. A huge thanks to Ed Honek, Editor of Nightlife Magazine, for giving us the scoop on the Nightlife Music Awards. So clickity click the link, download it and enjoy!
http://www.thinktwiceradio.com/patsy-dottie/audio/160128a.mp3
12/23/15: Forever Green has released a 5 song EP. This release includes a couple of alternate mixes that can only be heard on this CD. The first song, Fall Down Blues, was the first song Forever Green recorded and Joey's Song is the last song Joe Tell recorded. The second song, When You're Near Me, is a alternate version that will not be included on the full length release. I'd Find My Way is another alternate mix that uses all 3 versions of Dan's vocal tracks to create a very unique vocal sound. A second guitar can be faintly heard, this is a unplugged electric guitar which came through the vocal mic during one of Dan's vocal performances. Joey's Song was recorded by Vincent James. Vince is a master musician and he owns Music City Buffalo, one of, if not the best, music stores in Buffalo, NY. I must add that I was slightly intimidated recording with Vince because he is so talented, luckily I got over it and made it through. The guitar tuning on this track was created especially for this song and all the ethereal enhancements were added by Vince. Waves is a live track that Dan wanted to include on the EP. Dan's vocal talent really talent shines through on Waves. Tony Chimera played the bongos on Waves. EP Artwork was created by Cheryl and Dan Manzella and Joe Tell. This EP was meant to be a teaser in advance of a full length CD which will be released in 2016.
Update 3/14/15: Forever Green is proud to have been chosen as a finalist in the Artvoice BOOM (Battle Of Original Music)! We are glad to be recognized for our music and very happy to see our picture in the Artvoice newspaper. The best thing about it is our music is being heard by a larger audience.
Danny Manzella and I are writing music together again as Forever Green with the help of producer Mike Boncaldo of Ansley Court and Chunkpipe? fame.
Forever Green has also enlisted the top shelf help of Tony Chimera on bongos from 55 Main and Tommy Leach Jr. on 5 string bass from River Rocks.
Forever Green has released 2 live original tracks, "Waves" and "Old Dead Flea Blues" from the famed Tudor Lounge in Buffalo, NY with special guest Tony Chimera on bongos.
Big thanks goes out to Bruce Markwardt for recording us. Thanks Dad!
3 new originals have also been written, recorded and released, "When You're Near Me", "I'd Find My Way" and the 6 minute opus "Seniorita". Our love for the blues produced "Exactly What You Did" kept lo-fi on purpose. Dan and I sincerely hope you enjoy listening to our music!
http://www.reverbnation.com/forevergreen2
8/24/2011 Update: Forever Green is Now on Reverbnation!
Thank You for posting the videos Sue & Cheryl!
Forever Green is an acoustic duo Dan & I put together to express our love for music.
logo by Dan the Man.
This post is dedicated to Debbie Owens.
Robert Smith - Buffalo's Wolverine
Robert Smith - Buffalo's Wolverine.
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rwsthewolverine
Signed photo and picture from Buffalo Comicon 2023.
Tuesday, September 5, 2023
Shadyhawk - Buffalo, NY
Shadyhawk is an original rock band from Buffalo, NY that has been recording and releasing music since 2014. Their music can also be described as metal, southern rock, alternative and grunge. The primary members are George A. Davis V (middle in photo) on guitar and vocals and Jason RFear (right in photo) on bass. As of this post they are currently looking for drummer.
Here are their album covers from all 4 of their releases.
Shadyhawk - Whiskey Throttle, released 7/23.
Shadyhawk - Give Me the Day, released 2/19.
Shadyhawk - Portraits of Strangers, released 8/16.
Shadyhawk - Heed Where the Rebels Go, released 10/14.
To hear Shadyhawk click on https://shadyhawk.bandcamp.com/music
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