tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-121356262024-03-07T23:58:02.221-05:00Long Beach Library AVmichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1147272600817746782006-05-10T10:19:00.000-04:002006-07-17T08:26:32.860-04:00What is Cabaret?With the 4th Annual AIP Cabaret Festival scheduled at the Long Beach Public Library from May 18-21, I thought that I would take some time to look at this unique genre.<br />Below you will find an explanation of "Cabaret," taken from <strong>Wikipedia,</strong> the online encyclopedia. <br />Cabaret<br />From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia <br />Cabaret is a form of entertainment featuring comedy, song, dance, and theatre, distinguished mainly by the performance venue — a restaurant or nightclub with a stage for performances and the audience sitting around the tables (often dining or drinking) watching the performance. The turn of the 20th century introduced a revolutionized cabaret culture. Performers included Josephine Baker and Brazilian drag performer João Francisco dos Santos (aka Madame Satã), both of African descent. The venue itself can also be called a "cabaret." These performances could range from political satire to light entertainment, each being introduced by a master of ceremonies, or MC.<br />The term is a French word for the taprooms or cafés, where this form of entertainment was born, as a more artistic type of café-chantant. It is derived from Middle Dutch cabret, through Old North French camberette, from Late Latin camera. It basically means "small room."<br />Cabaret also refers to a Mediterranean style brothel — a bar with tables and women who mingle with and entertain the clientele. Traditionally these establishments can also feature some form of stage entertainment: often singers & dancers — the bawdiness of which vary with the quality of the establishment. It is the more sophisticated and classier cabaret which eventually engendered the type of establishment and art-form which is the subject of the remainder of this article.<br />American Cabaret<br />In the United States, Cabaret diverged into several different and distinct styles of performance mostly due to the influence of Jazz Music. Chicago Cabaret focused intensely on the larger band ensembles and reached its zenith in the Speakeasies, and Steakhouses (Like The Palm (restaurant)) of the Prohibition Era.<br />New York Cabaret never developed along the darkly political lines of its European counterparts, but did feature a great deal of social commentary. When New York Cabarets featured Jazz, they tended to focus on famous vocalists like Eartha Kitt and Capucine (Germaine Lefebvre) rather than instrumental musicians.<br />Cabaret in the United States began to disappear in the sixties, due to the rising popularity of rock concert shows and television variety shows. Perhaps the greatest living American Cabaret performer is Eartha Kitt, famous for her role as Catwoman in the tongue in cheek television series, Batman. The Art form itself still survives vestigially in two popular entertainment formats: Stand-up comedy, and in the dark comic performances that may still be seen in the drag show and camp performances in the nations GLBT community.<br />Cabaret is currently undergoing a renaissance of sorts in the United States as new generations of performers reinterpret the old forms in both music (see Dark Cabaret below) and theatre.<br /><br />What is your "take" on Cabaret? Please post your own definitions.<br /><br />Please note - there is a Cabaret music display in the media center. Here you will find popular recordings from such artists as Barbara Cook, Ute Lemper, Edith Piaf, and many, many more.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1146512265334042772006-05-01T14:31:00.000-04:002006-07-17T08:26:39.580-04:004th Annual AIP Cabaret Arts FestivalThe 4th Annual Cabaret Arts Festival will be held at the Long Beach Public Library May 18 - 21. If you have seen any of the shows in the past, I'm sure you will return for some of the best "nightclub" entertainment on Long Island. Susan James and the folks at Artists in Partnership (AIP) transform the LBPL Auditorium into an intimate "lounge," sans cocktails. Some of most talented cabaret performers in the metropolitan area will entrance you and capture your heart with their wonderful renditions and interpretations of popular standards and original music.<br /><br />Shows are scheduled for Thursday night, Friday night, Saturday afternoon and evening and Sunday afternoon. The full lineup follows and can also be seen on the AIP website: <a href="www.aip-arts.org">www.aip-arts.org</a><br /><br /><br />Thursday, May 18, 8 PM – Opening Night Cabaret Performance<br /> <strong>SUSAN JAMES “Simply Susan: Listen To My Heart”</strong><br /> with Tedd Firth on piano<br /> Susan shares her soul with songs that have special meaning in her life.<br />“ every note, every nuanced gesture rang professional…. One regret was that we don’t own a cabaret or we’d book her in a heartbeat.” Shirley Bogart Cohen, author<br /><br />Friday, May 19, 8 PM - Cabaret Performance<br /> <strong>MARIEANN MERINGOLO "Here’s To The Ladies! A Salute To Great Ladies In Song"</strong><br /> with Doyle Newmyer on piano <br /> This award-winning vocalist comes direct from her engagement at NYC’s Hideaway Room @ Helen’s.<br /> “If k.d.lang’s DNA were to get whipped together with Barbra Streisand’s…..the result might well be Marieann Meringolo” TIMEOUT NEW YORK <br /> “”The voice…will woo you, win you, & whisper in your ear” NEW YORK NEWSDAY<br /> <br />Saturday, May 20, 2 PM - <strong>"Cabaret Friends"</strong> Performances and Professional Panel <br /> Established Cabaret Artists from The Songbook Project perform and comment on cabaret <br /><strong>Nancy McGraw</strong>, vocalist of “Cinema Songs” at Danny’s and former cabaret club owner, <br /><strong>Sidney Myer,</strong> comic singer/performer and also booking agent for NYC’s club “Don’t Tell Mama”, Tedd Firth, Musical Director & jazz pianist , and <strong>Barbara Brussell,</strong> vocalist of “Lerner In Love” CD <br />"Nancy fills the stage with a genuinely warm presence, inhabiting each song and investing it with her own unmannered expressiveness." Peter Haas, CABARET SCENES Magazine <br /> “Sidney Myer…an engagingly mischievous dispenser of musical repartee” <br /> Stephen Holden, THE NEW YORK TIMES<br /><br />Saturday, May 20, 8 PM - Cabaret Performance<br /> <strong>JANE SCHECKTER & ADAM JAMES </strong>“Let’s Du-Et”<br /> with Tedd Firth on piano <br />This duo enchants you with jazz interpretations of great American popular standards in an upbeat fashion. <br /> “she’s got great style, great charts – and boy, does she have her standards!” Barry Manilow<br /> “…sophisticated songbird with rich, silky vocal style.. and a swinging baritone with an offhand Sinatra swagger…” Elizabeth Ahlfors, CABARET SCENES<br /> <br /><br />Sunday, May 23, 2 PM - Cabaret Performance<br /> <strong>PHILLIP OFFICER </strong> “Let Yourself Go:<br /> A Sentimental Journey of Standard and Pop Classics” <br /> <br /> Phillip matches veteran & contemporary songwriters from every decade with fresh interpretations. <br />“ …a theatrical tie to the storyline, incisive perception of the lyric, pitch-perfect renditions of the melodies, and a clear, clean sound, … one of the master craftsmen of the cabaret art.”<br />Elizabeth Ahlfors, CABARET SCENES <br /><br />For further info, call AIP 516-432-6342 or visit website: <a href="http://www.aip-arts.org">www.aip-arts.org</a><br /><br />This project is made possible, in part, with funds from the Long Beach Public Library<br /><br /> * AIP celebrates Long Beach’s Centennial 1906 - 2006 “From Sandbar to City” *<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1135737139592705962005-12-27T20:36:00.000-05:002006-01-03T22:42:53.586-05:00More Musical FavoritesHere is the rest of My Favorite CD's of 2005:<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/whitestripes.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/whitestripes.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Get Behind Me Satan</em> - <strong>White Stripes</strong> MR WHIT GBM W62 <br /><br />Eric Greenwood in a review for DrawerB says, "It isn’t until you’ve given it your full attention that the album starts to reveal its true depth and worth with songs that stick to your bones." I couldn't agree more or say it better.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/palmieri.0.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/palmieri.0.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Listen Here</em> - <strong>Eddie Palmieri</strong> MJ PALM LH P62<br /><br />Palmieri puts a latin spin on a few jazz standards with the help of some high profile guests such as John Scofield, Michael Brecker, and Regina Carter. "In Flight" opens the album with Carter stealing the show and setting the bar at an impossibly high level. The rest of the album tries to live up - but falls just a little short. Still a great listen.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/mirabel.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/mirabel.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Manual Guajiro Mirabal</em> - <strong>Manual Mirabal</strong> Q CUBA MGM N02<br /><br />Another Latin gem from the people who brought you the <em>Buena Vista Social Club</em>. Manual Guajiro Mirabel is the trumpet player that you may remember from BVSC. It is hard to imagine that at age 71, this is the first solo album for Mirabel. Quite a debut!!<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/magictime.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/magictime.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Magic Time</em> - <strong>Van Morrisson</strong> MA MORR MT M02<br /><br />A year would not be complete without a great album from Van the Man. Lots of typical "blue-eyed soul" - but even the typical sounds fine from Morrisson. He keeps things fresh with interpretations of jazz standards: <em>I'm Confessin', This Love of Mine, and Lonely and Blue.</em><br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/cab.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/cab.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Plans</em> - <strong>Death Cab for Cutie</strong> MA DEAT PLA D42<br /><br />I can't say that I'm enamored with their name - but <strong>Death Cab for Cutie </strong>delivers an album that I loved to listen to. They sometimes remind me of early <strong>REM</strong>. <em>Plans</em> is their major label debut after four albums on "indie" labels.<br /><br /><br />Happy New Year Everyone!<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1135698722602732072005-12-27T10:01:00.000-05:002005-12-27T20:35:24.503-05:00The Blog is Back!!!Yeah, Yeah, I know - its been a while - but the blog is back. My pre-New Years resolution is to try to be a bit more regular about posting. It's right up there with "I will lose 20 lbs before springtime." So we will see.<br /><br />As we approach the end of the year, we enter the season of the "Top 10." It is the time when critics dig deep into their bags and come up with lists of obscure titles that are bound to make you scratch your head and wonder if you are living on a different planet!!! Today, I offer my list of obscure musical CD's. These are items that are all available in the library collection. Some are so obscure that they actually appear on a few critics' lists. Here are some of my favorites of 2005, in no particular order:<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/B00069W4J0.02._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/B00069W4J0.02._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>I'm Awake It's Morning</em> - <strong>Bright Eyes </strong>- MA BRIG IWA B72<br /><br />I spent a lot of time listening to this one when it was first released and I am still moved by Conor Oberst's quavering voice. It doesn't hurt to have Emmy Lou Harris sitting in on a few tunes. This has got a real rootsy and folk feel to it as opposed to the more energetic <em>Digital Ash</em> which was released simultaneously.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/3216071_cr_200.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/3216071_cr_200.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Chavez Ravine</em> - <strong>Ry Cooder</strong> MJ COOD CR C72<br /><br />Cooder has given us an incredibly interesting album both musically and conceptually. <br />He captures the feeling of the largely chicano community of Los Angeles in the 50's as it was about to be displaced by the building of Dodger Stadium. The accompanying booklet is a real treat, too.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/redwalls-de-nova.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/redwalls-de-nova.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>De Nova</em> - <strong>Redwalls</strong> MA REDW DN R27<br /><br />What a fun group! They remind me of the <strong>Black Crowes</strong>, but they also sound very much like the <strong>Beatles</strong> on a lot of these songs. Somehow they manage to find their own voice and the result is a fun album that touches a lot of musical bases.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/gogol.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/gogol.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Gogol Bordello</em> - <strong>Gypsy Punks</strong> MA GOGO GP G71<br /><br />One critic says this group does to gypsy music what the <strong>Pogues</strong> do to Irish music. They are certainly a high energy group - think Boris and Natasha after one too many cups of espresso!! But this music was made to be revved up.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/ss-illinoise.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/ss-illinoise.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <em>Illinoise</em> - <strong>Sufjan Stevens</strong> MA STEV CFI S14<br /><br />This is part of an ambitious project that will eventually yield an album about each of the 50 states. The music is complex, the writing poetic, and the singing terrific. This is unique piece of work. Definitely worth a listen or two.<br /><br /><br />More to come.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1130284118303256392005-10-25T19:28:00.000-04:002005-10-28T20:14:13.260-04:00Fun (and Prizes) with Film PollsThe British film magazine, <strong>Total Film</strong> released the results of its recent Top 100 Movies of all time poll. Such an undertaking is bound to get some film buffs up in arms but it is also an opportunity to revisit, think about, and discuss some of your past favorites. So let's have some fun with this!!<br /><br />Here is the link to the magazine's list:<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.totalfilm.com">www.totalfilm.com</a><br /><br />Check it out and feel free to post your comments or put together a Top 10 list of your own. A list of 10 is a bit more manageable than 100 for our purposes - but don't get hung up on the number - I'll accept Top 8 lists and Top 12 lists as well. <strong>There will be a prize for any LB library patron that posts.</strong><br /><br />If you have never posted - send me an e-mail at lblibrary@yahoo.com include the word "blog" or "Michael" in your subject line.<br />You will receive an invitation to join the lblibraryav blog. <br />Follow the directions and you'll be bloggin within a few minutes.<br /><br />Just to get the ball rolling - here are 10 of my faves:<br /><br />1. <span style="font-weight:bold;">The Godfather</span> (I, although II is right there with it)<br />2. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Some like it Hot</span><br />3. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Apocolypse Now</span><br />4. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Annie Hall</span><br />5. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Psycho</span><br />6. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Magnificent Seven</span><br />7. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Star Wars</span><br />8. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bridge on the River Kwaii</span><br />9. <span style="font-weight:bold;">West Side Story</span><br />10.<span style="font-weight:bold;">Manhattan</span><a href="http://www.totalfilm.com"></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1129819740220929462005-10-20T09:57:00.000-04:002005-10-20T16:21:55.383-04:00Fall Music LineupA recent issue of <em>Rolling Stone</em> (Oct.20,2005 issue 985 page 20) previews some of this fall's new musical releases. Here are some highlights:<br /><br /><strong>Trey Anastasio</strong> - <em>Shine</em> - You never know what to expect from the former <strong>Phish</strong> frontman, but you generally wind up liking it!(Nov. 1)<br /><br /><strong>Santana</strong> - <em>All That I Am</em> - Lots of guests come out to play with Carlos including: <em>American Idol </em> runner-up, <strong>Bo Bice, Steven Tyler, Sean Paul, Mary J. Blige,</strong> and <strong>Los Lonely Boys</strong>.(Nov. 1)<br /><br /><strong>Neil Diamond</strong> - <em>12 Songs</em> - Returns to his "roots" in this Rick Rubin produced venture.(Nov. 8)<br /><br /><strong>Pharrell</strong> - <em>In My Mind</em> - Guest spots from <strong>Gwen Stefani, Jay-Z, and Slim Thug</strong> on this album split between Hip-Hop and smooth R&B. (Nov 15)<br /><br /><strong>Madonna</strong> - <em>Confessions on a Dance Floor</em> - The "Material Girl" never fails to dazzle. (Nov. 15)<br /><br /><strong>Jamie Foxx</strong> - <em>Unpredictable</em> - Appearances by Kanye West and Pharrell. (Nov. 22)<br /><br /><strong>Notorious B.I.G.</strong> - <em>The Notorious B.I.G. Duets</em> This posthumous recording features a duet with Bob Marley. (Nov. 29)<br /><br /><strong>Shakira</strong> - <em>Oral Fixation</em> - She continues to "shake things up." (Nov.29)<br /><br /><br />For a complete list check out the <em>Rolling Stone </em> website:<br /> <a href="http://www.rollingstone.com">http://www.rollingstone.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1128624867206056762005-10-06T14:37:00.000-04:002005-10-07T09:46:56.076-04:00Random StuffIf you did not get a chance to watch <em>No Direction Home</em> on PBS last week - don't despair - The DVD has been released and we should have it on our shelves in a few weeks. The soundtrack has also been released and should be available next week. This film, directed by Martin Scorsese, chronicles the early years of Bob Dylan's career. Featuring never seen before performance footage and interviews with Dylan and others, Scorsese captures not only Dylan's emergence as a musical icon, but of a country on the verge of major changes. Part 1 focuses on Dylan's musical influences and of the passing of the torch from the "beat" generation to the "hippie" movement. Part 2 shows how Dylan stays true to his own vision, despite enormous pressure from the press and his fans.<br />No one makes concert movies like Scorsese. <em>The Last Waltz </em> and his more recent PBS Special on the Blues are prime examples. <em>No Direction Home</em> offers even more. Don't miss it.<br /><br />I just heard the soundtrack to the recently released movie, <em>Everything is Illuminated</em>. It is very different, to say the least. Along with lovely traditional Russian Gypsy melodies come some hard rockin gypsy punk rock tunes from the groups: <strong>Gogol Bordello</strong>, <strong>Csokolom, Leningrad</strong>, and <strong>Tin Hat Trio</strong>. I can't wait to see the movie!<br />Check out some of these groups - you probably won't understand a word - but you won't stop moving. We own the latest CD from <strong>Gogol Bordello</strong> and I will be looking for releases from the other groups.<br /><br />I also listened to <strong>Back Against the Wall</strong>. <br />Billy Sherwood produced this replication of <strong>Pink Floyd</strong>'s <em>The Wall</em>, that features many talented musicians paying homage to Pink Floyd. Among the players are former <strong>Yes</strong> members, Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman; Keith Emerson of <strong>ELP</strong>; Steve Morse,guitarist extraordinaire from The <strong>Dixie Dregs, Deep Purple,</strong> and <strong>Kansas</strong>; Ian Anderson of <strong>Jethro Tull</strong>; and Tony Levin, bassist from <strong>King Crimson</strong>.<br />Why bother replicate this classic when the original still packs quite a wallop?- you might ask. I suspect that that this one is purely for the musicians - an opportunity to play songs from one of rock's masterpieces in the spirit of the original. This is an exercise in craftsmanship rather than originality. Having not listened to Pink Floyd in quite a while, I found this album very enjoyable. Why bother comparing them?- I might ask. Sit back and enjoy!!<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1128090882761881692005-09-30T10:29:00.000-04:002005-10-01T09:52:50.523-04:00Jazz Fest FotosAdelson trades "licks" with Chielli Minucci<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_016.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_016.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Mike Barnett opens the show on Saturday<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_012.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_012.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The dynamic Perrita Kitson<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_011.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_011.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The Kerry Kearney Band<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_014.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_014.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Mike Barnett on guitar<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_013.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_013.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Kerry Kearney -psycha"delta" blues<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_015.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_015.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Debbie Knapper Band - gives us funk and soul <br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_010.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_010.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Steve Adelson jams with the Bryan Carrott group<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/1600/Picture_0071.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8072/1012/320/Picture_0071.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1127319103630949052005-09-21T12:30:00.000-04:002005-09-21T15:48:04.830-04:00Musical Gumbo in the Big AppleFrom the minute I stepped into the lobby at Madison Square Garden last night, it was apparent that I was not about to see a struggling NY Knicks team. The Garden took on a mardi gras atmosphere with costumed characters and performers on stilts mingling among the crowds entering the arena. The lobby was festively decorated with baloons, and streamers in traditional New Orleans colors. A band played a mix of zydeco, blues, and jazz. Abitha Amber Beer, normally found on Bourbon Street was flowing through the MSG taps. Crawfish, Gumbo, and other Cajun delicacies were available at refreshment stands. I was at an event!- New Orleans in New York City.<br /><br />And what an event it was!! At 7:00 pm, the <strong>Rebirth Brass Band</strong> wandered through the audience and up on the stage playing a funeral dirge. In typical N'awlins fashion the lamenting soon gave way to celebration. Ed Bradley (CBS 60 Minutes) introduced <strong>Allen Toussaint </strong>who served as the bandleader for the first segment. Joining and paying tribute to Toussaint were such musical heroes as <strong>Paul Simon, Elvis Costello, The Dixie Cups</strong>, and the 1st lady of N'awlins blues - <strong>Irma Thomas</strong>. Two highlights of this first segment were <strong>Cindy Lauper </strong>doing a Touissant tune and the amazing <strong>Bette Midler </strong>singing <em>I Think its Gonna Rain Today</em>, a beautiful song written by Louisiana native <strong>Randy Newman</strong>.<br /><br /><strong>Elton John</strong>, one of the major organizers of this event, opened the next part of the show. The opening refrain of <em>Funeral for a Friend (Love Lies Bleeding</em>) was enough to give goosebumps to many in the full garden audience. A rocking version of <em>Levon</em> had people dancing in the aisles. John promised that there will be more concerts to further the rebuilding cause and echoed the evenings sentiment that a newer New Orleans will be part of our future.<br /><br />Using a rotating stage to minimize the time needed for equipment changes, it was only a few minutes before <strong>Jimmy Buffet </strong>was wowing the large number of "parrotheads" in the audience. Buffett shared the stage with <strong>Paul Simon </strong>for a version of <em>Sea Cruise</em>, and with <strong>Dave Matthews </strong>on a great rendition of Neil Young's <em>Heart of Gold</em>. Buffet's infectious joy reached this audience and he had everyone on their feet.<br /><br /><strong>John Fogarty </strong>was next up, and after a rousing introduction from none other than President Bill Clinton, launched into <em>Born on the Bayou</em>. Clinton's suprise appearance brought the evenings loudest and longest reception. He pledged that all monies raised would reach those that needed it most. This was certainly not an easy act to follow, but Fogarty was up to the task. He kept the house rockin' for 4 or 5 tunes, before ending with <em>Proud Mary</em>.<br /><br />Well over three hours into the evening the unlikely grouping of <strong>Buckwheat Zydeco, Lenny Kravitz, and Ry Cooder</strong> demonstrated an interesting blend of sounds. They were joined by <strong>Irma Thomas </strong>in a remarkable cover of Bessie Smith's <em>Blackwater Blues</em> which contains the following prophetic lines:<br /> “When it thunders and lightnin’ and the wind begins to blow/There’s thousands of people ain’t got no place to go.”<br /><br />Paul Newman introduced the next act - no strangers to the New York crowd - Simon and Garfunkel. After an emotional opening of <em>Homeward Bound</em>, and a rousing <em>Mrs. Robinson</em> they were joined by <strong>Aaron Neville </strong>who traded verses with Garfunkel on <em>Bridge Over Troubled Water</em>, an incredibly perfect song for this event. Garfunkel took the mike to say: "As many times as I've sung that song, I don't think it's ever meant as much to me as it does tonight."<br /><br />Aaron Neville touched a few more hearts a bit later on with an exquisite version of <em>Amazing Grace</em>. He performed with his brothers and another Crescent City legendary band, <strong>The Meters</strong>. Rounding out the finale were the <strong>Dirty Dozen Brass Band </strong>paying tribute to the traditional jazz sound that is so much a part of the Big Easy's musical heritage.<br /><br />So, nearly 5 1/2 emotion-filled hours after the <strong>Rebirth Jazz Band </strong>opened the festivities, they were back doing <em>When the Saints Go Marchin In</em> and once again winding their way through the audience. This time, however, they continued through the halls of Madison Square Garden with throngs of concert-goers following them to the exits. It had a real New Orleans feel to it and a real sense of optimism about it. One could not help but feel good about the rebuilding of this cultural landmark. The future may give New Orleans a new and different look, but its musical heritage will remain intact.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1127227089299106492005-09-20T09:09:00.000-04:002005-09-20T10:47:23.796-04:00From the Big Apple to the Big EasyI am pumped!! In just a few hours I'll be sitting in Madison Square Garden watching such musical superstars as <strong>Elton John, Elvis Costello, Simon and Garfunkel, Stevie Nicks, Bette Midler, Lenny Kravitz, Buckwheat Zydeco, The Neville Brothers</strong>, and many others perform in a concert to benefit the Gulf Coast rebuilding effort. This show and a second concert from Radio City Music Hall will also be available as a pay-per-view special. Madison Square Garden, in addition to donating 1 million dollars, is underwriting all of the concert's production costs.<br />It is comforting to know that all monies raised from sponsorship and ticket sales will go directly to the <strong>Bush Clinton Katrina Fund, Habitat for Humanity, Music Hurricane Relief Fund</strong>, and other organizations directly involved in the rebuilding effort. Show sponsors, <strong>Bear Stearns</strong> and <strong>KeySpan</strong> expect to donate well over 10 million dollars as a result of their efforts.<br /><br />I was fortunate to spend a few days in New Orleans last year. It was a unique and quite unforgettable experience. Not only was the food wonderfully rich and the party atmosphere constant, but the music....Wow!! The sounds of Zydeco coming from the bars and shops on Bourbon Street; the diverse street musicians along Canal Street; an impromtu concert along the banks of the Mississippi; and a stationary marching band playing Preservation Hall favorites at an outdoor flea market, form my collective musical memory of the Crescent City. <br /><br />In New York City, many waiters and waitresses that you encounter are actors and actresses that are biding their time til the right audition comes. So too, in New Orleans, waitstaff and shopkeepers double as musicians waiting for the right showcase.<br />The musical heritage of this city is not lost on visitors or on long time residents. It was always there, as much a part of New Orleans, as above-ground cemetaries, or drive through daiquiri bars. Then along came Katrina! We all know the rest. The deadly force of nature, poor planning, and the inability of local, state, and federal government to act quickly and efficiently left New Orleans underwater.<br /><br />I think it is fitting that music will play a part in the rebuilding effort. If you read this blog regularly, you know that I'm not a big fan of soaring ticket prices, but in this case, if you can afford them and if tickets are still available, it is very worthwhile. Tuning in on the pay-per-view special is another way to see these shows and contribute to this cause. <br /><br />I am also proud of the superstars that are donating their time and talents to this and other similar efforts. I'll give you some thoughts about the show in a few days.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1126551243062246582005-09-12T14:48:00.000-04:002005-09-15T11:09:56.773-04:00LB Jazz Festival - Sat - Day 3Wow! What a day it was! First of all the weather was absolutely spectacular and this probably accounted for the less than capacity crowds for the opening set. Those that chose to bask in the September sun missed the <strong>Mike Barnett </strong>group doing an hour of traditional jazz. Mike, on guitar, led his group through a spirited opening. <br /><br />The <strong>Kerry Kearney Band </strong>took to the stage shortly after 1:00, with his unique brand of "psycha-deltic" blues. Kearney, a Breezy Point native, is no stranger to Long Island audiences - as a matter of fact he is no stranger to national audiences, having opened for the <strong>Allman Brothers, Dicky Betts Band </strong>and many other distinguished bluesmen. It is a real treat to see him return to this venue year after year.<br />Kearney seemed very loose, talking with his audience, and seemingly having a lot of fun. The audience ,in turn, loved it - especially when Kearney singled out an audience member whose shirt matched his own, and extended an invitation to join him on stage. Fortunately, I think, the audience member declined. <br />For more information about this band, including the names of all the bandmembers, see: <a href="http://www.kerrykearney.com">www.kerrykearney.com</a><br /><br /><strong>Steve Adelson</strong>, the next performer, was joined by the washboard player from the <strong>Stephane Wrembal Trio</strong>, John Favicchia on drums, and very special guest Chielli Minucci (from <strong>Special EFX</strong>)for a very spirited hour of jazz. <br />Adelson, an extremely versatile performer, is also the main force behind organizing these great shows. In the improvisational spirit of Jazz, he seems to really enjoy playing with some of the other groups and have other groups' members sit in with his band. This always makes for some interesting music. Mr. Adelson deserves a hearty round of applause for bringing to Long Beach such a wide range of extremely talented musicians.<br /><br />Back to the festival. Two guitars, a stand-up bass, and a washboard is what the <strong>Stephane Wrembel </strong>group used to captivate the audience with an hour of gypsy swing jazz. Playing standards such as <em>All of Me </em> as well as the music of <strong>Django Reinhardt</strong>, this group really connected to the now near-capacity crowd. This group plays in Park Slope with an added violin. If you missed them in LB, try to find them - they are well worth the trip.<br /><br />Closing the show, was the <strong>Dharma All-Stars </strong>, led by drummer John Favicchia. This is truly an all star band featuring world class players from other groups that sit in with Favicchia when they can. This version included Chieli Minucci (<strong>Special EFX</strong>), Bill Heller (<strong>Rippingtons</strong>), Mike Pope (<strong>Chick Corea Band</strong>) and Carl Fischer (<strong>Maynard Ferguson</strong>). These guys were cookin. What more can I say!<br /><br />From top to bottom Saturday's lineup was fantastic. <br /><br />I was unable to make any of the shows on Sunday - man cannot live on jazz alone- he must have a little golf too - but I heard that they were pretty amazing too. <br /><br />We are so fortunate to have this festival in Long Beach. Judging by the attendance, many of you feel the same. Keep up your support for the arts. To Steve Adelson and the other festival organizers - congratulations on a terrific four day event and Thank you for making it happen in our community.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1126367802698240842005-09-10T10:06:00.000-04:002005-09-10T11:56:42.740-04:00LB Jazz Fest - Day 2I was unable to make it to opening night of the LB Jazz Festival. I heard that <strong>Los Playeros de Long Beach</strong> put on a great show. <strong>Aerial Acoustics</strong> was kind enough to donate a copy of their CD to our collection - so we will all have the chance to check out their music in a week or two. The drums and pipa duo of Matt Wilson and Min Xiao-Fen closed the show. <br />I would love to hear from people that were there.<br /><br />New to this year's shows is the creative sillouettes that serve as a backdrop for the performers. Liz Goldstein from the library's Youth Services Dept. and Michael Simon, Long Beach audiovisual librarian deserve a round of applause for their efforts.<br /><br />I was able to attend most of the Day 2 offerings. Sorry I missed <strong>Jim Lampi's </strong>opening set. <strong>The Bryan Carrott</strong> group, featuring Matt Wilson on drums, Dean Brown on guitar, and with Steve Adelson on the Chapman Stick sitting in, covered a lot of musical ground including tunes by Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, and John Coltrane. <br /><br /><strong>The Debbie Knapper Band </strong>closed out the evening in grand style. A blend of funk and soul had almost everyone in the near capacity crowd clapping hands, tapping toes, and shaking their walkers. What a talented group - keyboardist, Danny Keane did a great job covering an Al Green tune. Ms. Knapper sang a few tunes as well. The incredible stage presence, of lead singer, Perrita Kitson made this a memorable set. She demonstrated a powerful voice with incredible range as well as the ability to get the audience totally involved in the set. This group, rounded out by Ainsley Taylor on drums and Shawn Whitley on bass does play in the area - so make sure you get out to see them - you won't be disappointed. <br /><br />And there is still two more days to go!!<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1126035756517426302005-09-06T15:32:00.000-04:002005-09-07T15:42:41.813-04:003rd Annual LB Jazz FestivalRecordings by many of the performers in this year's Long Beach Jazz Festival can be found in our CD collection:<br /><br /><strong>Steve Adelson</strong> - <em>Sailing Down the River,Sane</em> - MJ ADEL SDR A00 <br />  <em>New Sticktet</em> - MJ ADEL NS A52<br /><br /><strong>AfroDysia</strong> -<em>Ami Terra</em> MJ AFRO AMT R12<br /><br /><strong>Mike Barnett</strong> - <em>Main Sqeeze</em> MJ BARN MS B<br /><br /><strong>Mark Elf</strong> - <em>Trickonometry</em> MJ ELF TRI E04<br /> Elf is also featured on - <em>As we were saying</em> MJ HEAT AWW H72<br /><br /><strong>John Favicchia</strong> - <em>Dharma</em> MJ FAVI DHA F73<br /><br /><strong>Kerry Kearney</strong> <em>Kerry Kearney</em> MR KEAR KK P60<br /><br /><strong>Chiell1 Minnucci </strong> - <em>Got it Goin On</em> MJ MINU GIG<br /><br /><strong>Matt Wilson</strong> - As Wave Follows Wave MJ WILS AWF W24<br /> Wilson also appears with Ted Nash on <em>Sidewalk Meeting</em> MJ NASH SM N56<br /><br /><strong>Bryan Carrot</strong> appears on <em>Ralph Peterson Presents </em>MJ PETE RPP P75<br /><br /><br />Most of the performances from last year's festival are available on DVD. These can be found on a display rack in the media center. <br /><br />Your thoughts and impressions of this year's shows are welcome in this blog. If you don't want to post them yourself - jot them down with or without your name and leave them at the Reference Desk - attention Michael. I will put them together and post them for you. It would be great if we could have all the shows reviewed.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1125778305213321932005-09-03T15:43:00.000-04:002005-09-06T08:00:22.516-04:00New Orleans 2005Under normal circumstances, I would use this space to talk about the upcoming Long Beach Jazz Festival. These, however, are far from normal circumstances. As I write this our country is in a state of shock as one its great historical landmark cities, the birthplace of Jazz, is underwater - ravaged by one of the worst natural disasters in our history. Thousands have died. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced. Countless numbers still remain trapped in weakened structures with no electricity, running water, and with little or no food and water.<br /><br />Nearly a full week since the first request to evacuate was made by the mayor of New Orleans, people are still waiting in squalid conditions at the Superdome or the Convention Center, for busses to bring them to another temporary holding area. As we watched on CNN, looting and lawlessness bred from neglect and frustration, spread throughout the "Crescent City."<br /><br />As the politicians point fingers at each other and "spin" themselves silly trying to explain how this could happen in our country, the ravaged area will begin to rebuild. It will take an incredible effort, an enormous amount of money, and a very, very long time. Hopefully, the historical legacy that was so much a part of New Orleans' charm will not be lost forever.<br /><br />A cautionary note - If you chose to donate to a relief fund, please try to verify that you are donating to a legitamate organization. You can find a list of charities and relief agencies as well as lots of other information about Katrina at the Middletown Thrall Library website:<br /><br /> <a href="http://thrall.org/Katrina">http://thrall.org/Katrina </a><br /><br />Let us all hope and pray for a quick and smooth recovery effort.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1125511287059826942005-08-31T13:49:00.000-04:002005-08-31T15:25:13.636-04:00Stop Now, Whats that Sound?Starting Mon., Sept. 5, and continuing through Sat., Sept. 10, we will once again be playing music in the audio-visual area to help promote the upcoming Jazz Festival. As in the past, there will be a "mixed bag" that will include: swing, traditional jazz, smooth jazz, blues, and modern jazz.<br />Most of the items you will hear are from our collection - so if you hear something you like, ask one of the librarians to get it for you.<br /><br />If you find that the music is distracting, please note that there are additional seating areas located near the Technology Center. If you like hearing music while you browse the audiovisual area, please let us know.<br /><br />Once again, I urge you to take any opportunity to let us know what you are thinking about the audiovisual area? Do you have suggestions for items to add to our collection? Do you have programming ideas that you would like to see in <strong>your</strong> library? Use this blog to make your voice heard!<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1125341888024080982005-08-29T16:40:00.000-04:002005-08-29T16:53:49.170-04:00Jazz Festival: Reviewers WantedThe 3rd Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival is almost upon us. If you haven't seen a schedule yet, there are plenty at the library - or you can check http://longbeachjazzfest.com/<a href="http://longbeachjazzfest.com"></a> <br /><br /><strong>Aerial Acoustics </strong>, a guitar duo, kick off the festival on Thursday, Sept. 8. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the opening session. I think this would be a great opportunity for some of you to get involved with this Blog. How about - you can write reviews of the shows at the library? Or for you nightbirds who believe that things don't start cooking until the last set -tell us about the shows at the local venues. Your thoughts about the performances, the venues, and the festival in general will help make the next one a better event.<br /><br />Speaking of the Jazz Festival, I had the opportunity to do a "stop and chat" (a subtle reminder that <strong>Curb Your Enthusiasm </strong> will be starting a new season shortly)with <strong>Mike Barnett</strong>, the other day. Barnett is very excited about opening the Saturday lineup at the library. He, like so many of the performers have played in front of larger crowds in more prestigious venues. Yet playing in his hometown and being part of this local effort gives him great satisfaction. He is proud of the growth of this festival and feels that it will continue to generate "buzz" among musicians and music lovers. <br /><br />An interesting blend of styles will be on display throughout the day. Barnett will lead his quartet through a set of traditional jazz and will be followed by Long Island's favorite blues band, <strong>The Kerry Kearney Band</strong>. Festival coordinator <strong>Steve Adelson </strong>will display his Chapman Stick virtuosity at 2:15 and promises some "special guests," as well. The <strong>Stephane Wrembel Trio </strong>will do their gypsy swing thing, before <strong>John Favicchia's Dharma All-Stars </strong>present their Latin/funk fusion sound to close the days events at the library.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1124998401982340732005-08-25T15:32:00.000-04:002005-08-26T13:44:50.420-04:00It Can Happen to AnyoneMy post on Aug. 18 contained an inaccuracy. "Dita" was kind enough to point out that Juan Formell was <strong>not</strong> associated with Buena Vista Social Club. A check of the Internet Movie DataBase (<a href="http://www.IMDB.com">www.IMDB.com</a>) confirmed this. Despite my embarrassment, it felt good to know that someone was reading the blog. Apologies to all!<br />If you aren't familiar with IMDB, it is definitely worth looking at, especially if you love movies. Librarians refer to it all the time when asked cinema-related questions. Plot summaries, complete cast lists, links to reviews, and individual acting credits can be found for hundreds of films and actors.<br /><br />This years video music awards can be seen on MTV this Sunday, August 28. The event, hosted by "Diddy" this year, will feature performances by <strong>Coldplay, Green Day, the Killers, and Kanye West. </strong><br /><br />Diddy, formerly known as P Diddy, Puff Daddy, Puffy Combs, Sean Puffy Combs, and just plain Sean Combs has set a new record for most name changes within a career. The old record was held by John Mellenkamp (John Cougar, John Cougar Mellenkamp, and Johnny Mellenkamp). Of course the most dramatic name change belongs to <strong>Prince</strong>, who traded in his name for a symbol and the phrase "artist formerly known as Prince." Only in the wonderful world of Rock and Roll!!!<br /><br />Look for <strong>Sufjan Stevens'</strong> <em>Come on Feel the Illinoise</em> among the new CD arrivals in the next few weeks. This album is the second part of an extraordinarily ambitious project to record albums devoted to each of the 50 states. I've heard a few cuts that remind me a bit of Ben Folds and Rufus Wainwright. I hope to be able to listen to the rest real soon. <br />Also available soon is <em>Honeycomb</em>, the solo album from <strong>Frank Black</strong>, formerly of <strong>The Pixies</strong>, and <em>Man Alive</em> by <strong>Stephen Stills</strong>, who is joined by former partner <strong>Neil Young</strong> on a tune that sounds like it could have been lifted from the <em>O Brother Where Art Thou</em> soundtrack.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1124412397056306612005-08-18T20:17:00.000-04:002005-08-19T08:10:08.773-04:00Some kind wordsFinally some feedback. OK it wasn't unsolicited - I asked Mike Gladstone, whose reviews can be found at <a href="http://www.allaboutjazz.com">http://www.allaboutjazz.com</a> to check out this blog and comment on it. Here is what he wrote: <br /><br /><br /><em>sorry that it took a few more days than I planned.<br />went to your site and was interested to see the latest<br />entry. I tried to respond but there was no apparent link<br />to button to hit so if you'd like to cut and paste the following<br />and count it as a response please feel free to do so.<br /> <br /> <br />I enjoyed your current event updates in relation to the library<br />facilities and Long Beach area concerts. Although I don't ever<br />get the LB Nights on the Boardwalk, it would be good to know<br />if I were in the area. <br /> <br />Thanks for the tip on the Jonathan Butler at Eisenhower Park<br />It was a good one and I'll give you more later if you want to hear it.<br />I got a report from the Ani DiFranco at Bald Hill concert and was <br />told that Toshi Reagon had an attitude problem without an apparent<br />fan base in the audience. She evidently was expecting a larger welcome<br />from the crowd.<br /> <br />Good to see a tie in with the death of Ibrahim Ferrer and available artists<br />in the Library collection and you're quite correct to tie in the Chavez Ravine<br />album with the Michelle Shocked. BTW, Juan-Carlos Formell, son of <br />Juan Formell of Buena Vista Social Club and Los Van Van is touring<br />to plug his new album Cemetaries & Desire, opened for Norah Jones <br />at The Living Room tuesday night.<br /> <br />I heard the new Van Morrison on which he does I'm Confessin' plus at<br />least one other late 40s type standard which was surprising.<br /> <br />Keep up the good work!</em> <br /><br />Thanks Mike, for those kind words.<br /><br />In order to post comments on this blog you must register. This involves getting your email address to me (send me an email with it to lblibrary@yahoo.com or leave a note with your name and email address at the reference desk. Be sure to mention that you want to register to blog. You will then receive an email invitation from "blogger.com" to join the lblibraryav blog. When you respond to that e-mail, you will be registered and ready to post comments to the blog.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1123634459300798732005-08-10T13:15:00.000-04:002005-08-10T13:16:15.743-04:00This and That...This weeks issue of <em>Rolling Stone</em> reports that concert ticket prices, in the first half of 2005 have decreased for the first time since 1996. Before you start calling ticketron, however, you should know that the average ticket price for the top-grossing <strong>U2</strong> concert is a whopping $96.94. OK, Bono and the boys are probably worth it - but can you believe an average ticket to <strong>Celine Dion </strong>was $136.70???? <br /><br />Also in this weeks RS, Steve Knopper talks about <em>Jack</em>, a new radio format that is gaining popularity around the country. In New York, <em>Jack</em> replaced the all oldies format at WCBS FM to the protests of loyal fans. To its credit, the new format offers a more varied selection and a much larger rotation. On the downside (maybe) most DJs have been replaced by recorded voices. An interesting local tidbit is that the format's founder is Bob Perry, a DJ from Island Park who uses the "on air" name - Cadillac Jack Garrett.<br /><br />Fans of <strong>Buena Vista Social Club</strong> were saddened by the passing of Ibrahim Ferrer on Monday. Ferrer and a number of other Cuban musicians were experiencing a resurgence of popularity because of the movie and sound recording inspired by <strong>Ry Cooder's</strong> musical visit to Cuba. Ferrer had just finished working on a studio album that will be released in September.<br />You can find a number of CDs that feature Ferrer in the International Folk (Q) collection.<br /> <strong>Buenos Hermanos</strong> Q FERR BH N02<br /> <strong>Ibrahim Ferrer</strong> QFERR IF F22<br /> <strong>Viva Cuba Libre</strong> Q CUBA VCL A00 (new)<br /> <strong>Buena Vista Social Club</strong> Q BUEN BVS N82<br /><br />Jazz is in the air! The banner is up and the 3rd Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival is right around the corner. A partial list of scheduled artists is available at the library. If you weren't able to make any of the shows in the past - you should make it a priority to attend this year. Some terrific Jazz and Blues performers will once again grace the library's stage. Returning acts include: <strong>The Mike Barnett Band, Ben Lacy, Steve Adelson, John Favicchia's Dharma All Stars, Afrodysia, and The Kerry Kearney Band. </strong>The Festival kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 8 and runs through Sunday Sept. 11. All performances at the library are free of charge - so plan on getting there early.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1123198596463650182005-08-04T19:33:00.000-04:002005-08-04T20:37:29.806-04:00We Have a Winner!!!Thanks, Pete.<br /><br />What a treat to have a "man on the beach" to review some of our local concerts. Pete just reaffirms the notion that there is lots of talent on our own little island. We should all get out there and support the arts on a local level. <br /><br />Believe it or not, Pete's posting was the first on this blog from a library patron! See Michael to claim your prize.<br /><br />It would be great to have more people posting to this blog. Let us know about concerts that you've seen, CDs that you've listened to, movies that you've watched, or library programs that have impressed you. This is an open forum, please use it. And yes, there are still prizes left.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1122145670195105722005-07-23T14:18:00.000-04:002005-07-23T16:18:20.693-04:00Lots to DoThe 2005 Stony Brook Film Festival got underway on Thursday and runs for 10 days. Thursday, July 28, will feature the New York premier screening of <strong>Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress</strong>, directed by the book's author, Sijie Dai.<br />Wine enthusiasts will probably enjoy the screening of <strong>Mondovino</strong> on Sunday, July 24. This screening will be followed by a panel discussion and a seperately ticketed wine tasting. More information can be found on the festival's web site - <a href="http://stonybrookfilmfestival.com">http://stonybrookfilmfestival.com</a><br /><br />The Brookhaven Arts and Cultural Center at Bald Hill has been offering a number of reasonably priced, good quality musical concerts. July 23 has Toshi Reagon opening the show for the fabulous <strong>Ani DiFranco</strong>. On July 31. <strong>Mountain</strong>, with original band members, Corky Laing and guitar wizard Leslie West headlines the show. Opening for <strong>Mountain</strong> is <strong>The Kerry Kearny Band</strong>. Many of you will remember that the KKB has performed at the Long Beach Jazz Festival for the past two years and is slated to appear again in Sept. Information about times, tickets, and directions can be found at: <a href="http://www.brookhavenamphitheater.com">www.brookhavenamphitheater.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1121266492919710852005-07-13T09:04:00.000-04:002005-07-15T13:12:35.163-04:00New "Van the Man"Van Morrison's latest release <strong>Magic Time</strong> (MA MORR MT M22) is a lot like many of his other (more than 50) records - and I mean that in a good way. I think of Van the Man as the supplier of musical comfort food. Throughout this album there is a feeling of deja vu - of comfortable familiarity. This may be off-putting to some that expect new directions from this seasoned veteran - but I welcome it. <br /> Morrison does show some of his versatility with a Sinatra-esque big band version of <em>This Love of Mine </em> and a cover of Perry Como's <em>I'm Confessin</em>. His voice is as powerful as ever and as always he's at his best with "blue-eyed soul" tunes like <em>Stranded</em> and <em>Keep Mediocrity at Bay</em>.<br /> Van Morrison has had an incredible 41 year musical career and he has demonstrated quite clearly that he is not ready to stop now.<br /><br /> John Hiatt offers up another helping of musical comfort food with <em>Master of Disaster</em> (MA HIAT MOD H22). Backed by the North Mississippi All-Stars, Hiatt delivers a solid collection of what he does best - roots rock, Memphis boogie, and good old blues. <br /><br /> Lots of new stuff is being processed and will be appearing in the New Arrival section in the next few days. Keep looking!<br /><br /> *******************************************************************<br /><br /> Please note that Barry Brenner Jazz collection and the library's jazz collection which were housed seperately - are now together as one collection. This should help make it a bit easier to locate items.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1120059329874309132005-06-29T10:01:00.000-04:002005-06-29T11:46:43.026-04:00Lots of new stuff !!!Lots of new and some classic titles will be finding their way to the stacks in the next few days. Here are just a few:<br /><br />Compact Disks<br /><br /><strong>Speak No Evil</strong>-Wayne Shorter- An all-star band including Freddie Hubbard,Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Elvin Jones complements Shorter on the tenor sax. ( MJ SHOR SNE S27 )<br /><strong>Nina At the Village Gate</strong>- Nina Simone- The incomparable Miss Simone live at one of New York's landmark Jazz venues - can it get any better? ( MJ SIMO AVG S82 )<br /><strong>In Your Honor </strong>- Foo Fighters - This album has been getting "great press" from rock critics as well as a mention from Jon Stewart on the Daily Show. ( MA FOOF IYH F82 )<br /><strong>Blame the Vain</strong> - Dwight Yoakam - Country music (except Steve Earle and a handful of others) is just "not my thing." That being said, Yoakum makes a strong case here to be included with an extremely listenable crossover album. ( MC YOAK BTV Y75 )<br /><strong>All or Nothing</strong> - Fat Joe - I'm not familiar with this Rap star, but this album has rocketed up the charts! ( MA FATJ AON F92 )<br /><strong>Chavez Ravine </strong> -Ry Cooder- and <strong>Mexican Standoff</strong> -Michelle Shocked- These albums succeed in invoking images from different times and places. Cooder captures the feeling of the largely chicano community of Los Angeles in the 50's as it was about to be displaced by the building of Dodger Stadium. He is joined on this ambitious album by David Hidalgo (Los Lobos), Flaco Jiminez, and Jacky Terrasson. Miss Shocked, opens her album with a few "border tunes" but eventually finds herself in the more familiar Texas blues milieu. <br />Unfortunately, these albums have to be catalogued and processed and will probably not reach the New Releases bin for a few weeks.<br /><br />DVD and VHS<br /><br /><strong>Coach Carter</strong><br /><strong>Hostage</strong><br /><strong>Seed of Chucky</strong><br /><strong>Scrubs</strong> 1st season<br /><strong>Six Feet Under</strong> 3rd season<br /><br />Audiobooks<br /><br /><strong>The Italian Secretary</strong> - Caleb Carr CD<br /><strong>1776</strong> - David McCullough CD<br /><strong>The Innocent</strong> - Harlen Coben CD<br /><strong>The Ice Queen</strong> - Alice Hoffman CD<br /><strong>The 12th Card </strong> - Jeffrey Deaver Cassette<br /><br />This is by no means a complete listing. I certainly wouldn't want to deprive you of one of life's great pleasures -browsing the stacks of a library. If you have any questions or requests, direct them to Michael at the Reference Desk or e-mail me at :<br /> LBLibrary@Yahoo.com<br />Please include the words "audio visual" or "Michael" in the Subject line to insure that I get it.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1119562320095248022005-06-23T17:20:00.000-04:002005-06-28T19:52:33.496-04:00Prizes, prizes, prizes!!!!Remember - There are prizes available to the first twenty library patrons that post their comments to this Blog. Its simple:<br /><br />If you would like to post your ideas, thoughts, comments, and suggestions,you must fill out a Blog Registration form (you will find these in the media area and at the Reference Desk)and drop it off at the Reference Desk. After registering you will receive an e-mail invitation from "Blogger.Com" - When you accept the invitation you will be able to post by clicking on "comments" at the end of a particular posting. Have fun! Post your thoughts today and pick up your prize tomorrow!<br /><br />In my last posting, I mentioned the dates of the Long Beach Jazz Festival. More information is available at the Jazz Festival website:<br /> <a href="http://www.longbeachjazzfest.com">www.longbeachjazzfest.com</a><br />You will find a schedule of events and a listing of performers with links to more information, as well as a videoclip of a past performance. Check it out!<br /><br />Thanks to my colleague, Phil Boccia, our technology librarian, we now have live links to the various sites that are referenced in this blog.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12135626.post-1119488212468077702005-06-22T20:55:00.000-04:002005-06-22T20:56:52.473-04:00<a href="http://easyhitcounters.com/stats.php?site=lblibrary" target="_top"><img border="0" alt="Free Web Counter" src="http://beta.easyhitcounters.com/counter/index.php?u=lblibrary&s=a" ALIGN="middle" HSPACE="4" VSPACE="2"></a><script src=http://beta.easyhitcounters.com/counter/script.php?u=lblibrary></script><br /><br><a href="http://easyhitcounters.com/" target="_top"><font color="#666666">Web Counters</font></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://rss.cnn.com/rss/cnn_topstories.rss</div>michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18329871042182642549noreply@blogger.com0