Sentinel - Buffalo, NY

                      Check out Jimmy rockin out in the Video 

                   From the Sole gig on July 10th 2026

Sentinel - 

Check out this Talented Rock Band 

from the 716- Buffalo, NY 

Playing the most rockin' music from the 70s through today!

2/6 Chicks, 8196 Erie Rd, Angola, NY 14006

3/14 Hamburg Casino, 5820 South Park Avenue, Hamburg, NY 14075

4/25 Yings, 1460 French Rd., Depew, NY 14043 

This band is full of talent that spans decades! We asked the 2 founding members to give a little history of the band. This is what they told us, a little window into the history of  Buffalo's very own- "Sentinel"

Enjoy the following "Tales from Sentinel Band History " 🎸

From Nick Notaro:

Ok. So the band was started in 1986 with myself, Jimmy Blahowicz on guitar, Steve Caprio on bass and Rich (Dino) Fortune on vocals. We played a lot of Rock wars at Salty Dog and Sinbad's. We played one of our biggest shows at Carousel roller rink. Once, when we played at the old Skate Haven which became the Fun house and now Lucarelli's, we were doing an original instrumental. It was heavy double bass. Unbeknownst to me, the singer jumped on the drum riser the song before and caused the platform to separate. During the song, the front foot of my throne started to fall into the crack. I knew there was a break coming up so I stood up and turned the base. When I sat back down, the back foot went into the crack and caused me to fall backwards off the stage. Some little kid ran up to me yelling " mister, are you ok?" I jumped back on the stage to see Jimmy and Steve in hysterics.  We finished the song and I got a standing ovation."

There were several lineup changes over the years which saw me replaced by Jim O'Donnel, Jay McGurrin and Darrin James. I will forward you a message from Jimmy with some stuff from those years. Jimmy eventually went on to some big area bands such as Silk and Steel and Nasty Habits. We had lost touch for over 20 years. But in 2016 I called all the original members to get together at my house and that started the reunion turning. We played the Exposure concerts for several years, each year with a different lineup. Dino found after the first show that his voice could no longer hold up. We went through several singers and lineups. Steve had to leave due to health reasons which brings us to today. The new lineup is 2 years old and ready to rock!

From Jimmy Blahowicz:

We were playing a place called Pete Piero’s Steak House that actually was more of a bar. The 2nd set we were opening with Sweet Emotion and you know how long the beginning of the song can be. We started the set playing the beginning of the song with no signs of the singer coming on stage. We must have played the beginning of the song for over 10 minutes with the audience starting to look around and making strange looks at the band. The singer finally ran in stage and went right into singing the song. It ends up he was banging one of the waitresses in the back kitchen with her sitting on the counter top. When he started singing the audience erupted cheering. I didn’t know if it was because they really liked the song or just glad he showed up and started singing. lol

We played in a bar that had a front room that I thought was a restaurant and when we finally hit the stage the girls started walking in the bar when we started playing and got up on the bar and tables and started dancing. They started taking off all their clothes and flung some of their bras and panties on stag. When we finished the song I asked my guitar tech what is going on? He said, how didn’t you notice the front of the bar was a strip club? To make it even better the whole side of the building was dirty motel rooms.  We partied there for a while. Lol

We played at Darien Lake and after the show some of the audience had photos of the band that were available. Some gathered on the side of the stage and wanted me to sign it for them. I was thrilled. The last girl that was in line came to me and I put out my hand with a sharpie ready to sign the picture she had in her hand. She smiled and lifted her shirt up with no bra on and said I want you to sign this!!! I was shocked and just signed the area she wanted with my sharpie. We took a picture together like she wanted. I thought jeez, haven’t done that before!!! lol

I was playing a bar in a Buffalo and my roadie called me early the next morning and sounded out of breath. It was strange because we played and got back when the sun was coming up and it was like unlike him. He said, bud I can’t find your guitar!!! It was and remains my prized possession because it was the first “real” guitar my dad bought for me. I bothered him for months to get it for me because I seen an add in Guitar Player magazine and it was my idol Eddie Van Halen advertising hod Kramer guitar. I called the bar and they were closed. He called me up a couple of hours later and said, bud I found it. Oddly enough, I was so glad he found it that I didn’t ask him where it was? Back then our roadies got paid in pizza and beer. Well, he must have got paid well that night. Probably a party pizza and full case of beer!!! lol

The bass play cut his hand badly at work on a meat slicer at work and we had a big show that night. Well, our manager said you have to play the show or else!!! He wound it the best he could with gauze and started the show. About halfway through the show the gauze came off and he stated bleeding all over his bass. The audience went crazy cheering like it was a Gene Simmons trick!!! It wasn’t but the show went on!!!

We played a dive bar called the Ken Lounge and had a big crowd and during the 3rd set they ran out of most liquor. Gladly most of the audience stayed but I felt it odd when we finish that every person that was there was drinking out of a plastic cup with a small straw in it indicating the were all drinking pop!!! Those are real fans

We were playing a rock wars at the Salty Dog when we just started the band. The band was there with most of their gear in stage. I was too young to be at a bar and went with my parents. The bouncer asked me and my parents where my proof was? My mother who never lies said she ruined it in the washer doing laundry. The bouncer smiled and knew what we were up to but let it go. During the show somebody bought us shots and the waitress brought them up to us. I was nervous as I hadn’t been on stage much and didn’t know what to do. Of course I drank the shot thinking mine had ice tea, it wasn’t!!! After it put it down with my face cringing I looked up and seen him the bouncer watching me smiling!!! To this day, I think he bought me the shot.

There was this guy who would follow the band all over the place. He was like a male groupie. I used to wear a white leather fringe sleeve jack, something like you would see Ozzy wear. After one of our shows he told me if I give him my jacket he would give me his motorcycle. I didn’t believe him and said, ya right!!! He showed up to a show the next weekend and said, ya still want the bike? I smiled like he was kidding and said ya sure!!! After the show I was packing up and he dangled the key in front of me. I took them and gave him the jacket. He was there with a couple of friends so he had a ride home. I thought I could leave my car with the equipment inside of it overnight instead of leaving the motorcycle.

Thanks for all of that fun band history guys!!!

Here is a Vintage pic of the band from years ago!

These talented 716 Musicians have fun as they rock out! 

Make sure and mark your calendars to check out the newest lineup!! ( see schedule above)

Featuring- Laura Mackey on Lead Vocals, Lisa Zurek on Keys, Mike Mackey on bass (yes they are married) and of course, Founding band members- Nick Notaro on Drums and Jimmy Blahowicz on Guitar!

Thank you Sentinel!!

Blind Owl Band - Winter Carnival - Waterhole, Saranac Lake, NY

 

Eternity A Vampire Metal Opera debut Friday, Jan. 30 at The Caz Buffalo

Tix and Info www.thecazbuffalo.com

THE VINCENT JAMES EXPLOSION

The Vincent James Explosion - VJXIV CD Review 

Left to right Vince, Jim and Jerry

The Vincent James Explosion is comprised of three of the most talented and versatile musicians currently performing on the Buffalo, NY music scene. The current members of VJX are Vincent James Mastrantonio: (Guitar) guitar teacher, producer, composer and entrepreneur, Jim Linsner: (Drums) published author and drum teacher and Jerry Sampson: (Bass), Jerry has won several Buffalo Music Awards for his outstanding bass playing. All three members of VJX are in several other high profile bands and they all are in demand as fill-in players. 

VJXIV is the fourth release from The Vincent James Explosion and it is the best to date from the band. The Vincent James Explosion plays jazz/fusion, instrumental music. 

The music also contains elements of funk, rock and avant-garde jazz. All of the performances on VJXIV are outstanding. The guitar playing is innovative and highlights Vince's versatility on his instrument of choice. VJXIV also contains Vincent James singing debut on "Madness".

VJXIV starts off with "Fanfare for a New Man". This track sounds like a celebration of music and sound.  The solo guitar and keyboards sound huge and powerful. I can hear this song opening or closing out a movie. This song would also work well opening a major sporting event. I can also hear it playing when a team first arrives at the big game. Great opening track. 

"Trial Exhibits" is a prime example of VJX doing what they do best. Rocking out on a jazz/fusion, guitar based groove. The unique sound of the opening rhythm guitar chords immediately caught my ear. The song breaks down into a bass groove which brings in the sharp and blazing guitar solo. The sound of the solo guitar is reminiscent of Joe Satriani/Steve Vai at times and Vince throws in some sweeping guitar techniques for good measure. 

"Kinky B" features a couple of effects-driven and passionately played guitar tracks. The song starts with a jazzy sounding, chord riff but then a dissonant, distorted guitar chimes in and adds a completely different element to the song. The chords continue the dissonant sound of the track. Vince plays an absolutely blazing solo which leads into an off meter turn for the band. This song could be called a avant-garde, jazz/rock fusion all out jam. Vince at his best! One of my faves on VJXIV.  

Next up is Vince's lead vocal debut on "Madness". I've heard this song develop over the years and this is the best version I've heard to date. "Madness" lyrics describe city violence and the end result which is pain and death. This song is a balls out rocker and once again Vince rips his way through an outstanding rock guitar solo. "Madness" is one of the best songs on VJXIV.

In stark contrast to "Madness",  "Jimmy Mack" is a brief jazz/fusion track, with more emphasis on jazz than fusion. Clean jazz guitar accompanies a a single note melody which sounds like it could be a sonically effected, bended guitar or keyboard note. Cool soundz!

"The Truth" features jazzy guitar and blazing rock guitar solos but bassist Jerry Sampson gets a turn showing some solid and melodic chops on a 70 second solo during this track.

"Deep Blue" features Vince playing some great, bluesy acoustic guitar. Unaccompanied except for a rather spacy sounding backing track Vince displays his exceptional technique on the acoustic guitar.

 The 7th song, "Carina" is "dedicated to my Carina" as Vince so eloquently says in the liner notes. Jim Runfola blows some killer soprano sax on this great instrumental.

The last song is VJX's take on the classic "Mission Impossible". The entire band tears it up and once again, Vince blazes through a melodic and polished guitar solo.

CD Review by Joey Tell (Joseph Militello)

http://thevincentjamesexplosion.com/

Here's a recent picture of Vincent James from the Buffalo News performing with Caitlin Koch and the Jamie Moses band.

Thank you Vince and Carina!!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Vincent-James-Explosion/159795070752016

Russkull's Comics And Collectibles - 45 East Avenue, Lockport, NY

 

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.  

Danny Manzella, vocalist and lyricist for Forever Green Music.

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.

Vocalist and WNY native Angst (Medic Sun, RULE!).

Guitarist and Vocalist for KISS THIS! Kevin Blakita.

Video of Forever Green with the new lineup. Left to right, John Young on Electric Bass, Danny Manzella on Lead Vocals, Mike Boncaldo on Drums, Joe Tell on Electric Guitar and Tony Chimera on Bongos. Fall Down Blues from the now defunct Club 861 featuring an intro by Bill Mason. Thank you Walter Oblivion.

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!

Check out the Youtube video Forever Green (2) to hear Forever Green live...
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.

Here's a classic FG handbill created by Joey Manzella and recently given to me by Dan. Thanks Dan!

This post is dedicated to Debbie Owens.

GROSH Music Review By Joe Tell - Buffalo, NY

GROSH -Buffalo, NY

NEW Careless live video by GROSH from the Town Ballroom Start Again release party. 

 

Grosh Summer Concert Schedule

Grosh New music video for I Will Never Leave Your Side from their new release Start Again

Grosh music video for Small Talk from their new release Start Again

Grosh Album Release Party! with special guest Uncle Ben's Remedy. March 7th, 7pm @ Town Ballroom, 681 Main St, Buffalo NY 14203

Grosh Album Release Party, Town Ballroom March 7th with Uncle Ben's Remedy

Grosh - Not Down For Long 

Grosh is a high energy rock band from Buffalo, NY featuring Grace Lougen (guitar), Josh English (drums), Megan Brown (vocals), and Dylan Hund (bass). With influences from bands such as Led Zeppelin and Pearl Jam, the band writes music that is visceral, heavy, and inspiring. Not Down For Long is the band's second effort and includes performances by Harry Graser (Keys), Linnea Cremean (viola), Allison Collins (cello), Eric Wozniak (sax, flute, oboe), Tim Clarke (trumpet) and Alex McArthur, Harper Sinclair (vocals).

Grosh - Not Down For Long music review by Joe Tell.

The Fight is an outstanding and impressive opening volley from Grosh to start Not Down For Long. The brief intro is ethereal, a perfect start for the high energy groove that is about to explode. The band comes in at breakneck speed but remains in total control as Megan shouts out the chorus and powerful lyrics. Grosh proves why they are one of the leading bands on the local WNY scene. Josh English takes command as he marches through the adrenaline inducing ending. Step Outside is next. The meaningful lyrical content (seems to) provide a positive solution to any drama that can occur online or in person. The band grooves hard on a funky riff that dominates the song. Grace Lougen leads the band as she slows down the tempo and plays a fantastic solo. The feeling is bluesy but executed with tons of rock and roll aggression. The feeling on Seen but Not Heard is primal and aggressive. A heavy guitar riff dominates until the second verse which uplifts the feeling and tempo of the music before going back down into the main riff. A solid bass line from Dylan leads the band into the second part of the song. The lyrical content reflects the feeling of the music. The quick guitar intro for Mind Games brings a new energy back into the playlist. The tempo is quick and filled with some tasty drum fills. The key shift on the outro is a fantastic addition to an already great track. Megan Brown's heartfelt feelings are on full display as she sings the next song, On The Patio. You can hear and feel the sincere emotion come through during her performance. Along with Megan's vocals Grace Lougens beautiful guitar playing talent really shines on this track. The rhythm section really locks in tight allowing to Grace to perform a fantastic solo. On The Patio is one of my favorite songs and one of the best on Not Down For Long. "On the patio, swimming in cigarette smoke Plastic chairs, a locked-in stare I fell in love on the patio Looking in big blue eyes and brand new dreams And simple as it seems I fell in love and it was everything", a sample of the lyrics by Megan Brown. (Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell popped into my head as I listened.) Mr. Rogers is a lesson in funky soul. The horns and flute on this track add to the musical palette as well as some guest vocalists'. My favorite part of this track is the popping and slapping bass solo by Dylan Hund! Check out the video for Mr. Rogers below. 

No One Knows You keeps things funky and upbeat. The positive lyrical message sounds like believe in yourself. The band really sounds tight on this track as they all play accents on the downbeat. A couple of starts and stops kept me listening intently and interested in how the band was going to take the song out.

The lyrics for This Isn't Over (can) offer inspiration to keep going for when things may look bleak. The quick tempo provides a great backdrop for fantastic performances by Megan and Grace. Check out the youtube video below.

Reckless Road is a powerful, full-speed ahead rocking tune. Perfect for when you're travelling to and fro, turned up loud in your motor car. Features Grace Lougen on slide guitar.

Don't Forget Me is an emotional and soulful ballad. Grosh conveys and creates real feeling with the music. The song is further enhanced by a brilliant orchestration track by Richie English. I heard influences by Joan Baez/Joni Mitchell/Jewel/Ani DiFranco thru the guitar and vocals. One of my favorites for sure. Tread The Wave brings the power back in and features a crashing, percussion track much like the waves of a turbulent ocean. 

Not Down For Long is another brilliant and impressive release from one of Buffalo's best original rock bands, Grosh.

Grosh is a high energy rock band from Buffalo, NY featuring Grace Lougen (guitar), Josh English (drums), Megan Brown (vocals), and Dylan Hund (bass). 

Grosh Whether Or Not You Know cover art. 

Grosh, Whether Or Not You Know music review by Joe Tell.
Whether Or Not You Know blasts' off with More To Life. After repeatedly playing the song I heard something extraordinary right away. Separating the speakers revealed some interesting sounds and a cool stereo mix during the intro of More To Life. I was also struck by the unique sound of Grace Lougen's guitar. Grace plays the guitar with her fingers which results in an organic and very natural sound. Her finger style playing highlights her dynamic style and reveals a lot of natural harmonics and overtones you wouldn't hear from a flatpicking guitarist. The drum build up by Josh English brings in the high energy that defines More To Life. Megan Brown comes in on top of the fast pace accenting and accompanying the music with a singing style that is inherently appealing and intuitive in nature. Megan's spirited and passionate voice packs plenty of emotional punch. The lyrics are powerful and grab the listener's ear without taking away from the groove the band is putting down. After establishing the driving tempo the band slows down letting the music breathe. Thus allowing Dylan Hund to throw in some tasty fills on the bass and Megan to add some sweet vocal harmonies. 
The quality continues with Every Time. Every Time features a brilliant drum track executed by Josh English. The drum sound is tight and punchy, Josh's frantically fantastic playing weaves in and out of the musical pocket in creative waves. A duo of rhythm and lead guitar parts come in, each part complimenting the other. Megan's melodic and breathy vocals sound sincere and as soon as she sings the word broken the band busts' into a powerful, heavy groove that accents the lyric.
Rising Tide is up next. Rising Tide features Grace Lougen on a lead guitar tour de force. The song structure leaves plenty of room for some soulful lead guitar. The guitar solo builds up with a slow burn. A tasty slide guitar begins the solo in a bluesy fashion Grace then starts up with a few lead notes slowly getting faster, bringing up the energy along with the band. The solo bleeds in to the next verse of the song and continues on bringing the song to a close. 
Whether or Not You Know rolls on with Roads Remember. Needless to say the lyrics tell a story about travelling and the memories we connect with the road. The guitar solo signals a transition as the band kicks the song into overdrive for the outro.
Lil' Crazy, Refuse and I Bet You Did play out in an energy inducing order. 
Lil' Crazy is funky and tight. The rhythm section of Josh English and Dylan Hund jam on an infectious groove that is expertly punctuated by some great bass pops and slaps. 
Refuse is a straight up hard rock song, from the aggressive guitar to the soaring vocals Grosh shows off yet another side of the band. The fast tempo is sure to get your blood flowing and your fists' pumpin'. A spacy guitar solo with some awesome keyboards by Harry Graser contrasts' perfectly with the quick verse music.  
The previous two songs set up I Bet You Did perfectly. I Bet You Did would fit in nicely on any FM rock radio playlist. The first time I watched the music video for this song I became a fan of Grosh. I Bet You Did is a great, well composed rock song, the verse music and lyrics are strong and the chorus is catchy. Grosh really raises the bar and sets a new standard for all local musicians to follow with I Bet You Did.
Below is the video for I Bet You Did.

Astronaut is as titled, as a song about all things space. The mid tempo pace allows plenty of room for Megan Brown to fill up the heady groove with drifting harmonies. The keyboard track by Harry Graser serves to further the spacy track onward and upward.  
Grosh shows off some impressive hard rock/metal chops with Something New. This track is similar to track 6 Refuse, but Something New is even more aggressive and metallic in style and performance. Josh English uplifts the energy and power even more with his drum pounding outro.
What Have I Done is a hard-driving rock song. Megan's vocals are outstanding and Grace's guitar playing is screaming with emotion. The ending is a classic bombastic rock and roll bang up.

Piece of Mind closes out Whether Or Not You Know in style complete with a hidden track. The feeling conveyed is melancholy and the drum track drives the song with a quickness that defies the ballad like sound. Megan's vocals are breathy, beautiful and emotional. The violin track arranged by drummer Richie English and performed by Linnea Cremean and Allison Collins closes out Piece of Mind...but wait there's more! A bonus track called Sweet Mama is great dose of rock n roll that serves the listener well as a going away present and a positive parting musical shot.
The quality production and the mix on Whether Or Not You Know is top notch and a pleasure to listen to. All of the songs on Whether Or Not You Know are very well orchestrated. The transitions between the melodies are seamless, emphasizing the lyrical content. The songs highlight the creative talent and energy each member of the band possesses as they perform together as a cohesive unit. Brilliant Buffalo Band!

Website
https://groshband.com/home

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/Grosh-323159498138470/

Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_7Y4RysAzDmB1DLOcQhbUg/featured

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/grosh_band/

Dethbed 925 - Livermore, CA

Dethbed - dB925 www.dethbedmusic.com

Buffalo Angst Greatest Hits released on Apple Music, Soundcloud, iHeart, Amazon Music, Pandora, boomplay, Spotify, Youtube...  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMPWCWkS_TCuiowy_GdG7tA

Dethbed, the only 716/925 (zip codes) 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

Music and video credits for One More.

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.

Angst (bilbo bilbo) and cyco Joe (electric bass) creating some new sounds at GCR Studios.

Johnny Panic (Drums), Angst (Lead Vocals) and Ace (Guitars) from GCR Studios.

Medic Sun can be heard on soundcloud, see the link below... 

https://soundcloud.com/davidleehughes/sets/gash?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing 

Medic Sun/Dethbed copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved.