Lots of new music for the month that begins like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Some is ferocious, some is mellow, but all of it is good! Here are some picks:

Caitlyn Mitchell – “Pawn”
The debut single by Caitlyn Mitchell is a massive ballad. Atop a sea of strings and vocal harmonies, Mitchell’s voice evokes the rawest of emotions while sounding as clear as a bell. The lyrics are heart wrenching while never losing their sense of poetry, a hard balance to strike. Her theater influences are on full display here, as the song sounds as ready for a Broadway stage as it does for car speakers on a late night drive.

Breachway – “Big Red Pine”
This new song by Breachway evokes a feeling of Americana, something that has been increasingly common in the Rhode Island music scene. A reverb-soaked guitar moans in the background like a distant train whistle as the drumbeats fall upon the track like rain. The song feels weather-worn and honest, with the lyrics both melancholy and honest. The track hits a crescendo around halfway through, as the guitars become distorted and the drums and bass hammer the track like a determined blacksmith.

Namé – “Forgive and Forget”
Recently, Namé released their debut album, Changing, which features an intriguing blend of influences. The second track, “Forgive and Forget,” is a prime example of this, with the lead guitar lines echoing The Grateful Dead despite the track’s quick pace and punky chord progression. The guitars remain clean throughout the track, however, introducing a jangly element to the mix. Over all of this, the defiant vocals tie everything together with a nice bow.

Indelego – “Always (I’m Here)”
Alt-rock darlings Indelego are back with their first single in a year, and it could not be more different than their previous single “I Will be Your Ghost.” While that one opened with a mellow ukulele as the song built around it, this track kicks open the door with barre chords that jump all over the guitar as the drums and bass set the speed. The song is full of surprises from that point forward, as the mood immediately changes to something between jazz and math rock before settling into a sweeping chorus and going back to punk. There is something for everyone in this track.

Nova One – “You Were Right”
Nova One is back with a single that swings elegantly between dream pop and shoegaze. Vocals combined with a tremolo effect lead into guitar riffs that soar over dense layers of distorted guitars, deep bass, and thick drums. Just as soon as the storm starts, however, the song returns to airy synths and gossamer vocals. The song throws listeners for a curve right at the end, as the pace slows to a crawl and gives way to one of the fuzziest outros I’ve heard in a while.

Liz Moniz and Len Cabral at the 2023 Motif Spoken Awards. (Photo: Amaziyah the Great)

Rhode Island women are tough: We wear T-shirts in 60-degree weather, drink iced coffee in the winter, love as deep as Providence potholes, fight as hard as Rhody Rams, act as sweet as coffee milk, and yet still manage to contain all the saltiness of the Narragansett Bay. This mystery vortex of an “Island” breeds whip-smart, no-BS-taking, mouth-gun-slinging women. All you need is a dash of funny and you’ve got some of the country’s brightest comedians in the smallest state. Here’s a showcase of some of RI’s most famous women of stand-up comedy, and some up and comers.


Born in Westerly, Ruth Buzzi is a renowned comedian and actress, best known for her performances on the television comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. Buzzi’s character portrayals, especially the dowdy spinster Gladys Ormphby, left a lasting impression on audiences. Over her extensive career, she has received several Emmy nominations and has won a Golden Globe. Her comedic style is characterized by broad slapstick and character comedy.


Poppy Champlin is a seasoned stand-up comedian from Rhode Island with a dynamic career that includes television appearances on programs such as The Oprah Winfrey Show and comedy specials across Showtime and HBO. She’s celebrated for her fast-paced humor and has significantly contributed to LGBTQ+ representation in comedy. As the creator of the “Queer Queens of Qomedy,” she showcases LGBTQ+ talent in the comedy scene.


Doreen Collins is a renowned stand-up comedian and actress from Rhode Island, celebrated for her engaging humor rooted in local life and politics. She stars in “The Ocean State Follies,” a comedy sketch show satirizing Rhode Island society. Collins’ versatile comedic talent shines through both her stand-up performances and acting roles, making her a prominent figure in the local comedy scene.


Maya Manion grew up in Vermont but moved to Rhode Island to break into show business! Maya was featured on Nick at Night’s Funniest Mom in America and recently was runner up in Mohegan Sun’s Funniest Comic in New England. Manion’s comedy speaks for many moms out there. She is relatable, hilarious, and refreshingly real. A true pleasure to watch on stage.


If you had asked Liz Moniz what she was good at a few years ago, she probably would have told you she makes a mean meatloaf. (Note: This is how she describes herself, and not how I would describe her. Though honestly, she really does make a mean meatloaf.) This was before the married mom of two stumbled onto the Rhode Island comedy scene — and started crushing packed houses. Moniz is a regular guest at the Comedy Connection in East Providence, Comix Mohegan Sun, and various shows and fundraisers across New England, her material has also been featured on Sirius XM’s Raw Dog Comedy.


Providence’s Christi Chiello is a distinctive voice in New York City’s comedy scene. Chiello is known for her unique blend of sweetness and wildness. She’s made notable appearances on Comedy Central’s Roast Battle, and her work spans stand-up, voice acting, and live performances. With a vibrant online presence and participation in major comedy festivals, Chiello brings a fresh, energetic approach to her performances.


Kirsten Logan is a comedian from Peacedale. Logan is very braggadocious about how she is Rhode Island’s only inbred-Mexican-fantastic-dysplastic comic. She has performed at the Portland Maine, Rogue Island, and Toronto Dark Comedy Festivals. You may have seen her on Nickelodeon, or heard her on Sirius XM. Like Moniz, Logan is also a regular at the Comedy Connection in Providence.


There are so many unbelievably talented female comics, but I don’t have the space to list them. The best way to get to know RI comedians is to come to a local show. Support the arts, support your friends, and heck, if you’ve ever thought about getting out and doing comedy, do it! Join us! There are Facebook groups for open-mics, and comedy classes available through the Comedy Connection Comedy Club, as well as John Perrotta’s Comedy Factory. If all of this seems overwhelming, just go to a show. Though… if you dare heckle, I guarantee a deep, tough, sweet, and salty Rhodey Girl will pack you a word wallop.


Liz Moniz and Len Cabral at the 2023 Motif Spoken Awards. (Photo: Amaziyah the Great)

Rhode Island women are tough: We wear T-shirts in 60-degree weather, drink iced coffee in the winter, love as deep as Providence potholes, fight as hard as Rhody Rams, act as sweet as coffee milk, and yet still manage to contain all the saltiness of the Narragansett Bay. This mystery vortex of an “Island” breeds whip-smart, no-BS-taking, mouth-gun-slinging women. All you need is a dash of funny and you’ve got some of the country’s brightest comedians in the smallest state. Here’s a showcase of some of RI’s most famous women of stand-up comedy, and some up and comers.


Ruth Buzzie
Born in Westerly, Ruth Buzzi is a renowned comedian and actress, best known for her performances on the television comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. Buzzi’s character portrayals, especially the dowdy spinster Gladys Ormphby, left a lasting impression on audiences. Over her extensive career, she has received several Emmy nominations and has won a Golden Globe. Her comedic style is characterized by broad slapstick and character comedy.


Poppy Champlin
Poppy Champlin
is a seasoned stand-up comedian from Rhode Island with a dynamic career that includes television appearances on programs such as The Oprah Winfrey Show and comedy specials across Showtime and HBO. She’s celebrated for her fast-paced humor and has significantly contributed to LGBTQ+ representation in comedy. As the creator of the “Queer Queens of Qomedy,” she showcases LGBTQ+ talent in the comedy scene.


Doreen Collins
Doreen Collins
is a renowned stand-up comedian and actress from Rhode Island, celebrated for her engaging humor rooted in local life and politics. She stars in “The Ocean State Follies,” a comedy sketch show satirizing Rhode Island society. Collins’ versatile comedic talent shines through both her stand-up performances and acting roles, making her a prominent figure in the local comedy scene.


Maya Manion
Maya Manion
grew up in Vermont but moved to Rhode Island to break into show business! Maya was featured on Nick at Night’s Funniest Mom in America and recently was runner up in Mohegan Sun’s Funniest Comic in New England. Manion’s comedy speaks for many moms out there. She is relatable, hilarious, and refreshingly real. A true pleasure to watch on stage.


Liz Moniz
If you had asked Liz Moniz what she was good at a few years ago, she probably would have told you she makes a mean meatloaf. (Note: This is how she describes herself, and not how I would describe her. Though honestly, she really does make a mean meatloaf.) This was before the married mom of two stumbled onto the Rhode Island comedy scene — and started crushing packed houses. Moniz is a regular guest at the Comedy Connection in East Providence, Comix Mohegan Sun, and various shows and fundraisers across New England, her material has also been featured on Sirius XM’s Raw Dog Comedy.


Christi Chiello
Providence’s Christi Chiello is a distinctive voice in New York City’s comedy scene. Chiello is known for her unique blend of sweetness and wildness. She’s made notable appearances on Comedy Central’s Roast Battle, and her work spans stand-up, voice acting, and live performances. With a vibrant online presence and participation in major comedy festivals, Chiello brings a fresh, energetic approach to her performances.


Kirsten Logan
Kirsten Logan
is a comedian from Peacedale. Logan is very braggadocious about how she is Rhode Island’s only inbred-Mexican-fantastic-dysplastic comic. She has performed at the Portland Maine, Rogue Island, and Toronto Dark Comedy Festivals. You may have seen her on Nickelodeon, or heard her on Sirius XM. Like Moniz, Logan is also a regular at the Comedy Connection in Providence.


There are so many unbelievably talented female comics, but I don’t have the space to list them. The best way to get to know RI comedians is to come to a local show. Support the arts, support your friends, and heck, if you’ve ever thought about getting out and doing comedy, do it! Join us! There are Facebook groups for open-mics, and comedy classes available through the Comedy Connection Comedy Club, as well as John Perrotta’s Comedy Factory. If all of this seems overwhelming, just go to a show. Though… if you dare heckle, I guarantee a deep, tough, sweet, and salty Rhodey Girl will pack you a word wallop.

Photo by Jonathan J. Castellon on Unsplash

We asked readers to share their favorite local love songs and why they’re worthy of your Valentine’s playlist. Here are 28 songs of love and loss from 24 local artists. 
THE BENJIS: “SKATE” AND “BAD SIGN
“‘Skate’ is basically a sloppy love letter to Parker Posey, an end-of-summer lament,” says Benji’s vocalist Aryieal Francis. "‘Bad Sign’ is about the melancholy side of love when things don’t work out, the letter that you don’t send.” 
BETH BARRON: “KISS MY CHEEK
“‘Kiss My Cheek’ is about a couple having a tough time or arguing more from the exhaustion of life,” Barron says. “However, what keeps them going is that simple kiss on the cheek. Honest and sweet, it puts all things in perspective and reminds them of their love.” 
DEGENERATES OF PUNK: “LIL DINO
“Capone and I shared unconditional love,” Jimmy West says of his touching ode to his dog. “We were there for each other and made each other happy. He was my friend and I loved him. This song is a reminder of the great years we spent together. I miss him every day.” 

ERIC AND THE NOTHING: “DOWN TO THE CITY“They’ve written a bunch of beautiful love songs, but ‘Down to the City’ really touches my heart,” says Alyssa Lynn Tuchon. “I never expected someone would write a song about me, but it happened! Years later we're still going strong, though a lot has changed. I've become disabled and dealing with all the things that come along with that. Hearing how proud I made him feel then, even now despite things I can't change. I think the song encompasses that struggle of love’s ups and downs, but in a dancey, enjoyable way.” 

MIKE GENDRON: “UNTIL IT’S NOT“People often immediately think of a ‘love song’ as a song that needs to be sappy and full of big, tear-jerking chords, arrangements, and lyrics dripping with mush,” Gendron says. “People forget about the underbelly of true love, if you're fortunate enough to find it: how sometimes it can be a struggle to maintain understanding and the integrity of the whole ‘give & take.’ This song focuses more on that aspect, and that to make something work, if it's worth it to you, you have to endure and accept the dark, if you want to feel and appreciate the light.” 

J. MICHAEL GRAHAM: “BACK FROM MEMPHIS"‘Back From Memphis’ is a good love song because love is the driver of the song,” Graham says. “The speaker left his love behind for a life on the road, only to find desperation and regret…Long story short: success, fame, and fortune mean nothing without the muse.” 

HEATHER ROSE IN CLOVER: “TRUE NORTH“‘True North’ was written as a thank you and a promise to my wife Lisa,” Rose says. “It’s about finding your person and having the privilege to navigate life with them by your side. ‘True North’ has a very ‘It’s you and me against the world!’ vibe that Lisa took even further by recording a bass track that truly supports and elevates the song.” 

HELEN AND THE TRASH PANDAS: “LONELINESS IS THE DEVIL,” “AIN’T NOBODY“How ‘Loneliness is the Devil’ came to life is a love story. I was performing with my band when the next band came strolling in and one of them had a new fella. They had just gotten through a tough time in love and this new person shot up all the red flags. I glanced over to my bandmate and song co-writer Jay Scheffler and said ‘You know what that is? Loneliness is the devil.’” 

When you’re lonely and your heart is aching, you might do things you wouldn’t normally. The devil is the loneliness and it lures you to love something that might not be best for your heart. 

“‘It Ain’t Nobody’ came from letters I wrote to an ex of mine. I put them in my notes app, not to send but to get out of my mind and heart.” 

O.B. HOWARD: “COUNTING TWICE,” "STUMBLE

JAKE HUNSINGER AND THE ROCK BOTTOM BAND: “LORELAI
“‘Lorelai’ is about how love can change you against your will,” Hunsinger says. “The narrator tells Lorelai throughout the song that, despite how exciting his life is, he has only been lonely and unfulfilled without her. The upbeat nature is an indicator of how manic and nervous he is while saying all this. His heart and mind are moving fast, so the song has to move fast, too. It also doesn’t give the listener any resolution. It ends with the question: Do you ever think about you and I? His feelings might not be reciprocated at the end. Love is always worth it though, even if it hurts.”
JENN LOMBARI: “AFTERLIFE (HAPPY ANNIVERSARY)“I wrote this song about fate, destiny, kismet,” Lombari says. “Feeling like you’ve found your person and you want to be with them lifetime after lifetime. However, the person I had in mind when I wrote this turned out to be horribly emotionally abusive. But it does come off as a beautiful story with ups, downs, and understanding. It’s a reminder of what to strive for.” 

KEN LYON AND TOMBSTONE: “MY BABY’S SO EVIL
MARY MCAVOY: “LONELY LOVE"‘Lonely Love’ by Mary McAvoy is a classic lost love song,” says fan Michael Panico. “This is a true heartbreak song, direct and to the point. It’s about that time we’ve all been through, when a relationship ends before you’re ready. It’s painful but you must live through the pain. It’s hard, but at least you’re feeling something as Mary says in the lyric: I guess I would rather have you than have nothing at all. I've seen her sing this live and you really feel it when she gets to the chorus. She belts out ‘Lonely Love’ in such a passionate way you almost feel that pain yourself.” 

THE MCGUNKS: “LOVE SONGSo you want a love song/ Well you ain’t gonna get one here/ I think by now I would have made that clear…I find myself falling down/ Crawling back to you…It’s sarcastic but sweet,” says Bob Kadlec. 

NO ROOM AT THE MORGUE: “ANIMAL’S EYES
BRIAN SHOVELTON: “STEP BY STEP"‘Step by Step’ by Brian Shovelton is a realistic love song that conveys a sense of hope and redemption,” says fan Jennifer Dunford-Roskos. “The message behind ‘Step by Step’ is that as long as you can hold on to love, anything is possible. A loving relationship will help you get over past mistakes and deal with present hardships. Additionally, this song is absolutely beautiful and has a catchy chorus.” 

MADDIE SKELDON: “HEART STILL LONGS“Love is complicated,” says fan Michael Skeldon. “In looking back at a relationship’s end, you can focus on trying to move on with your life or you can grapple with longing for a relationship that was less than perfect.” 

SONS OF ALABASTER: “HOLE IN MY HEART,” “CRUMBLE
“The song is a love song about betrayal and the pain of being cheated on,” says guitarist Nils Freiberger. “Being in love can be a wonderful thing but it also leaves one vulnerable should such a thing happen. Crumble is another love song about breaking up and wondering what happened, how the other person can be so indifferent, and is it even worth trying again?” 

CORRINE SOUTHERN: “HONEY“‘Honey’ is a sweet, little song I wrote about the feelings that accompany new love,” Southern says. “The excitement you feel when you realize you’re smitten with someone. It’s lyrically cheeky and sexual while remaining genuine and maintaining a sense of humor. It’s a simple message of desire that has strong imagery.” 

TERENCE SUN: “CAROLINE” 
“Nothing else matters when you're stuck,” says Sun. “You only see that one special person in a room full of people.” 

DAVID TESSIER: “HEY MARY“I don’t know that it makes for a good love song, or that it’s a good song at all, but it’s about the yearning to be near someone while life’s responsibilities keep you apart,” Tessier says. “Hey, Mary, I want you to see… Though the days and the nights and the dark and the light are conspiring, I want you here by me. It’s not Shakespeare, but it was definitely real when I wrote it.” 

TOAD AND THE STOOLIGANS: “PART TIME LOVERS 
“‘Part Time Lovers’ stands out as a rap love song that touches on the flakiness of dating and how people tend to only work ‘part time’ for things that didn’t meet their expectations,” explains vocalist Mike Jencks. 

TWOKAY: “HEY THERE

LADY PURGE: "MINE MINE MINE" AND "RAINDROPS"






Mixed Magic Exhult Choir with Kim Pitts-Wiley on the cajón. (Photo: Aiyah Josiah-Faeduwor)

When the Mixed Magic Exult Choir comes together to sing, there is a palpable magic in the air. “Some of it is technical and practical,” says artistic director Jonathon Pitts-Wiley. “Kim [the choir director] makes sure the instruments are tuned at a certain frequency, 432 Hertz, the healing frequency. There is intention in what Kim and the choir pour into performances.”

Pitts-Wiley explains that Mixed Magic Exult Choir director Kim Morrison Pitts-Wiley directs “with an elite variety of skill sets. She has a keen ability to get the best performance out of people by earnestly investing in each of the choir members.”

The Exult Choir was formed in 2008 at Mixed Magic Theater to preserve and celebrate the great African American tradition of gospel music.

“I’ve not seen a choir quite like Exult,” says community organizer and photojournalist Aiyah Josiah-Faeduwor. “What they do is beyond uplifting with their voices and presence. They take an entire space, audience, and community to the highest versions of ourselves in that moment. It’s truly a liberating experience every time I have the honor of bearing witness to their performance.”

The choir presents four major concerts a year, with prestigious credits such as opening for Dr. Maya Angelou and the RI Philharmonic. Their upcoming concert, titled EXULTATION, will feature a wide range of musical styles from soul to jazz, gospel to pop, and classic to contemporary. Treat yourself to a night of musical elation and rejoicing on Tuesday, Feb 27 at Providence Performing Arts Center at 7pm.

Valerie Tutson, the executive director of RI Black Storytellers, echoes this sentiment: “Lately they have been singing some of my favorite Sweet Honey In The Rock songs with such beauty and power. We need those songs again now more than ever!”

Mixed Magic Exhult Choir. (Photo: Tom Walsh)

Mixed Magic Theatre co-founder and executive director Bernadet Pitts-Wiley explains that the properties of healing are woven into the mission of the theater. “That is the way that we approach theater as a whole. People will tell you that we are in the business of saving lives.”

EXULTATION will be a tribute to gospel legends Sister Barbara Bryant and the esteemed Annye Raye Pitts. The two of them took gospel music all over the country. Sister Barbara Bryant will join the choir onstage on February 27, while Annye Raye Pitts will be blessing the event in spirit.

For more info about EXULTATION and to buy tickets, visit ppacri.org/events. Discounts available for group ticket purchases. To learn about Exult Choir and Mixed Magic Theatre, visit mmtri.org

Love is in the air this season, and who better to direct this love at than Rhode Island musicians. Here are my picks for this edition of Stop, Rock, & Roll!

Dred Buffalo continue to hone their craft, climbing into the upper echelons of New England rock & roll. Their newest offering, “Heavy Love,” showcases the band at their funkiest, emphasis on FUN. A groovy bassline, augmented by cowbell and guitars straight from ’70s radio, immediately begins the ride in style. Skyscraping vocals mix with gritty riffs to make one of the most powerful choruses I’ve heard in a minute. The music video is also a thing of beauty.

Do you wish country music was more understated and indie-rock tinged? Would you like it if Noah Kahan merged with Bon Iver? If you said yes to either of these, then Jack Wilmot’s new song is for you! Dusky acoustic guitar combines with faint percussion and Wilmot’s voice, which strikes a careful balance between carefree and emotional. In these cold months, this song provides a slice of summer.

At first listen, I couldn’t tell if this song reminded me more of ’70s punk and metal or ’90s post grunge and alternative. I then decided it fell somewhere in the middle, which was just fine with me. The chorus features some gnarly riffing combined with some classic stacked vocals. Overall, the song is one of those classic-sounding tunes that immediately brings to mind a car speeding down a desert highway. Considering the title, I suppose that’s fitting!

Rosenkranz’s new single, featuring production from Jack Riley, brings out the best of both parties. The tight production evokes a unique feeling tinged with nostalgia for the bedroom pop of 2017. Rosenkranz’s vocals fit the song like a glove, jumping from delicate to nearly rapping during one verse. Everything works texturally in a way that is hard to achieve.

ST. JOE & THE DORMS – “TRUE STORY”

Rosenkranz’s new single, featuring production from Jack Riley, brings out the best of both parties. The tight production evokes a unique feeling tinged with nostalgia for the bedroom pop of 2017. Rosenkranz’s vocals fit the song like a glove, jumping from delicate to nearly rapping during one verse. Everything works texturally in a way that is hard to achieve.

For more than a decade, Dusk has been the beating heart of Providence, offering a refuge for both local and international musicians. However, circumstances beyond their control have forced the closure of this cherished venue at 103 Harris Ave, leaving a void that will be deeply felt.

Dusk, to me, has been more than just a venue – it’s been a second home, a place where I’ve witnessed magic unfold on stage and formed connections that transcend the ordinary. The team behind Dusk, a group of extraordinary individuals, created an environment of inclusivity and creativity that made the venue truly special.

My personal journey with Dusk began when I first moved to Providence in 2020. It was my inaugural destination for an outdoor concert, an experience that left an indescribable imprint on my soul. Little did I know, this venue would become a pivotal part of my life story.

Dusk not only welcomed musicians but also embraced various artistic expressions. When I wanted to start a series of short film screenings, I reached out to them. Their response was an enthusiastic “Come talk to us!” I presented my vision, and Rick immediately offered support. This collaboration resulted in two remarkable years of outdoor screenings, showcasing both local and international short films.

Photos courtesy of the author.

Beyond the artistic endeavors, Dusk has played a significant role in my personal life. It became a place of celebration, hosting one of my most memorable birthday parties. In times of heartbreak, the Dusk community provided solace and support, helping me heal.

As an immigrant, I’ve learned to seek friends who become family and places that feel like home. Dusk has been all that and more – a sanctuary, a creative haven, and a source of enduring connections.

I invite you to join me in bidding farewell to Dusk by attending their shows until January 31st. Let’s come together to support them during this final month and celebrate the memories we’ve created within these walls. Stay updated on their latest announcements by checking their Instagram (@dusk_providence) and Facebook (Facebook/DuskProvidence) for updates.

My heartfelt gratitude goes out to the incredible individuals who shaped Dusk into the haven it became – Coach Rick, Danielle, Kayla, Chelsea, Amanda, Sammy, Corey, Vinnie, Danny, Dan, and everyone who contributed to the vibrant spirit of the venue. Your impact will be sorely missed, and the closure of Dusk marks the end of an era that will be remembered fondly by all of us who considered it our home.

Okee dokee folks…Since this issue deals with health I will include a link to my popular, past column about hearing protection. I often receive emails asking for the link to this column as folks become more aware of possible hearing damage from experiencing live music.

I carry earplugs with me always, sometimes even an extra pair for others. I use them everywhere that sound levels are loud. Concerts are the main reason I wear earplugs but I also use them when snow blowing or using power tools. Damaging decibel levels are all around us and once you start being concerned about hearing, you become very aware of volume levels. Anything is better than nothing when it comes to ear protection! Seriously, read the column and get yourself a pair of earplugs.

Get the health over to: motifri.com/hearingprotection.

This is somewhat of a personal PSA about smart (dumb) phones. At concerts and events I often see a sea of screens recording video that more than likely will never be watched. This array of lit screens is distracting and ANNOYING. Back in the day when someone annoyed my brother and me at a concert we would throw pennies at their head. The other night while I was playing music there was a toddler with a smartphone watching videos with the phone volume turned way up. Sure, it may keep the kid busy while their parents ignore them during dinner, but that kid is not learning any social skills and besides, it is just plain annoying. Seeing a trend here? I could go on. Smart phones are annoying and that is not good for my health. See, it’s health related. BTW, I don’t have a smartphone! Read on…

Blackstone River Theatre (BRT) in Cumberland has a host of shows lined up for the new year. If you have never had a chance to attend a show at BRT it’s about time that you do. BRT is probably one of the best run theaters around with a consistent line up of high-quality events and classes on their calendar. All you have to do is go to one show to realize this! Coming up at BRT: Atwater-Donnelly Trio on Jan 20, Dave Gunning & JP Cormier on Jan 21, Kevin Doyle’s Roscommon Soles on Feb 10, The Rhythm Future Quartet on Feb 17, and Matt & Shannon Heaton/ Keith Murphy & Becky Tracy on Feb 24.

For more about concerts and classes, anabranch over to riverfolk.org.

Stone Soup at The Music Mansion doesn’t start its season until next month but I wanted to get you the info early so you can mark your brand new calendars with the Winter/Spring ‘24 schedule. On Feb 10, check out the Rhode Island Songwriters Association showcase. March 9 features David Roth, followed by on Open Mic series on Mar 14. On Mar 23, it’s all about WS Monroe & Friends. April 13 showcases the talent of Grace Morrison, and there’ll be another installment of the Open Mic series on Apr 18. Apr 27 is Sam Robbins & Undercover Cameo, May 11 is Honey Badgers & Cardboard Ox, May 16 is another open mic series, and June 2 is the annual fundraiser. There you have it. Do people still use paper calendars? I do.

Progresso over to stonesoupcoffeehouse.org.

Even though Westerly is at the bottom end of the state, it is still part of RI, and the Knickerbocker Music Center is a Little Rhody gem. Nothing in this state is too far away. For over 90 years, the Knickerbocker has been a place for great entertainment. What’s more, the Knickerbocker has the adjacent Tap Room (TR) for more intimate, acoustic shows. There are lots of shows coming up and here are just a few: Soul Shot/Red Lion on Jan 12, followed by Johnny and the East Coast Rockers on Jan 13. Ed Peabody and the Big Blue Thing (with free dance lessons) takes the stage on Jan 17, with Allysen Callery in the Tap Room the next night (1/18). The month rounds out with Take It To The Bridge (1/19), Knickerbocker All Stars (1/20), Otis Read & Jimmy Corwin (TR, 1/25), and last but not least, The Wolff Sisters/Undercover Cameo (1/27).

For more about these shows and others, choo-choo to knickmusic.com.

OK, I know that I list my own shows from time to time: but only when they are special shows and involve other performers. On Thursday, Jan 18 at the new-ish Pawtuxet Village venue, The Blue Room, Ed McGuirl, Dan Lilley, Amy Bedard, and I will be performing in concert. Sure, all of us play almost every weekend, but we are usually not playing our own music. At this show we’ll be playing all self-penned material. On top of that, we’ll be sitting in with one another to add a little something extra to the songs. Between the four of us, you’ll hear guitar, violin, harmonica, mandolin, and maybe a few other instruments as well. In addition to live music, there’ll be a LOT of bad jokes and stories, because we’re full of them and we’d love you to come out and hear it all.

For more, cerulean over to theblueroom.com.

That’s it for now. Listen to my podcasts at: motifri.com/rootsreportpodcast. Thanks for reading and listening.

On a frigid night in November, there is nothing better to shake off the cold than a night of music with some of Rhode Island’s hardest working bands for nearly 50 years. 

It may have been near freezing outside, but at the Park Theater in Cranston, a show featuring several of Rhody’s Music Hall of Fame inductees had the crowd dancing in the aisles.

The grand 1920’s era theater was the perfect venue to host some of the best this state has to offer.  The bands included showstoppers Steve Smith and the Nakeds, Billboard chart-busting John Cafferty with Beaver Brown, bluesman Duke Robillard, and country rockers Rizz. Combined, they gave the crowd a night bursting with old school rhythm and blues blended with Jersey Shore rock.

“It was all for a great cause,” said Rick Bellaire, who has worked tirelessly for the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame for more than twenty years. The Hall of Fame, dedicated to fostering the best of Ocean Sate music, had a twofold purpose that night: raising money for its work while showcasing  well-known inductees.

Backstage, Smith said he’s known many of the show’s musicians for many years, including Cafferty, who he grew up with in Matunuck and later in Smithfield.  Smith and Cafferty are cousins and have been rocking the East Coast bar scene for more than fifty years.

While Rizz along with Robillard provided worthwhile music for an appreciative crowd, the best was yet to come.

It became a family affair as Cafferty and Beaver Brown lit up the stage with an hour-long set drenched in Jersey Shore stylings. Cafferty, along with veteran saxophonist Michael “Tunes” Antunes, scorched the crowd with a stomping version of “On the Dark Side.”  Later in the set, Attunes played a soulful tribute to Veterans Day while vets in attendance got an applause from the crowd.

Cafferty summed up the emotion in the room when he said “It’s not the preacher, it’s the congregation that matters.”  That night, the congregation churned up an old school Baptist musical revival.

The foot stomping, hand clapping vibe hit its peak when Steve Smith and the Nakeds kicked their set  off with an explosive rendition of “It’s Only the Beginning,” a classic ‘70s rocker.

The well-oiled Nakeds showed the audience why they are a Rhode Island musical gem as they glided through a set filled with some of the best of Boz Scaggs along with the soulful Bobby Blue Bland’s  ”Running on Empty.”

Cafferty and Smith took the crowd by storm as they hit a peak with “Dancing in the Street,” a Martha and the Vandellas Motown blockbuster. The top notch five-piece horn section including trombonist Josh Kane, baritone sax player Jaime Rodrigues, alto sax man Mark Legault, and trumpeter Steven “the Kid” Decurtis had the Motown gods smiling down on Park Theater.

All night long the theme was, as Smith joked, “we’ll keep playing til the phone stops ringing.” The night’s roster mixed the right musical ingredients to ensure the audience forgot their weary troubles and  danced.

Robillard, who along with a fine, five-piece blues swing unit is surely getting a lot of phone calls – with nearby upcoming dates at Nick-a-Nees on December 26 and  at the Knickerbocker on December 27.

Opening the show was the lively Rizz, who blended a mix of classic Eagles-styled harmonies with more rock-infused Creedence Clearwater influences. 

Speaking of ain’t nothing like the real thing, The Park Theater is hosting a stellar line up with two favorite tribute bands, the Peacheaters and Vyntage Skynard playing the music of the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd  on December 9.  Come support great live music and we’ll see you there.
Walt Slattery has been involved in the music business for nearly fifty years as drummer and music writer. He is working at the Kennedy Performing Arts Center in
Washington DC.  He can be reached at slatteerywalter1@gmail.com.

Image via The Beatles’ “Now and Then” music video.

Okee dokee folks…I know a lot has already been said about The Beatles’ new song, “Now and Then” but I want to chime in. First of all, there will never be another band like The Beatles. They are and always will be in a league of their own. Sure, many have been compared to them and even back in the late ‘70s the band Klaatu was thought to be The Beatles releasing music under a different name. It wasn’t. There were even rumors that The Beatles were close to performing on “Saturday Night Live.” That all became impossible when John Lennon was murdered in 1980. In the ‘90s, the remaining members did some recording with old tapes of Lennon’s songs. One cut, “Now and Then,” was not usable so it was shelved.

Up until last summer the only Beatle I had ever seen in concert was Ringo. He ALWAYS puts on a great show and it’s a privilege to see a REAL Beatle. Fortunately, I was finally able to attend a Paul McCartney show at Fenway Park. It wasn’t cheap, and I am not a fan of stadium shows, but seeing McCartney was as close to a religious experience as I will ever have. During the 3+ hour show, McCartney sang “I’ve Got A Feeling” with John Lennon. The band played along with Lennon’s recorded voice/ video and McCartney’s live vocals. It was amazing and was as close to seeing The Beatles as I am ever going to get.

Technology is constantly evolving and it ultimately evolved to the point where the vocals of the previously unusable Lennon cassette could be clearly isolated. John’s voice was not created by AI as some may think. That vocal along with some of George’s recorded guitar work from the ‘90s sessions, Ringo and Paul’s recent contributions, an orchestra, and some other production work from Giles Martin – son of the late George Martin – has created a MAGNIFICENT recording from the heartfelt song sketches recorded by John 40 years ago. The arrangement is brilliant, with nods to early Beatles throughout. I was deeply moved and listened to it on repeat for quite a while. It is truly a fitting finale for the best band that ever was. If you are curious as to how all this was accomplished, you can watch a 12-minute documentary on YouTube.

As much as I love this, I sincerely hope they don’t find another cassette somewhere and start releasing more music. It would spoil the specialness, beauty, magnificence, and CLOSURE of “Now and Then.” Now that this has been achieved, will we be hearing new music from Freddie Mercury, Prince, Michael Jackson, Tom Petty, or David Bowie? I am sure there are lots of unreleased or unfinished recordings out there of these folks and someone is dying to make a buck off these dead artists. Let’s pray (in a non-religious way) this Beatles’ song is a one-and-done. Probably not. Read on…

I am an animal person so when there is something to benefit animals I want to let you all know about it. The Tenth Annual Rock & Roll Show fundraiser for Westerly’s Stand Up For Animals Shelter will take place at the The Knickerbocker Music Center on December 17. The show’s producers, John Speziale and Keith Cowley have put together a musical lineup headlined by The Friends. The band features local musicians Brad Bensko, Amie Coffey, Sandman Allen, Ken Serio, Dave Allen, and producer Speziale. Opening the show will be Christmas fiddler, Craig Edwards. The Carleans are also part of this event for the third year in a row. Appearances will be made by Dancing Santa and the show’s mascot, stand-up comic Puppet Santa. There will be food, raffles, and the annual hula dancing contest. Show starts at 6:30pm. Tickets are $15 at the door and online.

For more, woof on over to: knickmusic.com

The 16th annual Singing for Shelter concert to benefit Lucy’s Hearth and The McKinney Shelter will be held on Thursday, Dec 7 at Channing Church in Newport. Founded in 2007, Singing for Shelter is a Newport holiday tradition and has raised over $170,000 for these homeless shelters. The concert features many local musicians playing holiday favorites, songs of peace and hope, and original tunes. This year’s line-up includes: Ed McGuirl, Amy Bedard, Jimmy Winters, Newport String Project, Tom Perrotti, Rand Bradbury, and many more.All of the performers generously donate their time and talents. A Yamaha guitar and keyboard will be raffled off at the show. There will be an ASL interpreter for the hearing impaired. This event draws huge crowds and sells out, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased in person at Lucy’s Hearth, 19 Valley Road in Middletown, or by emailing MarkGorman56@gmail. com.

For more, carol over to: fb.com/ SingingForShelterNewport To donate directly to the shelters: lucyshearth.org and mckinneyshelter.org.

Don’t forget you can listen to my podcasts at motifri.com/rootsreportpodcast.