LIVE @ SUNSET MARQUIS

Producer’s Note: Friday May 11th 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Tue, 15 May 2012 18:04:00 +0000

At long last the Live at Sunset Marquis concert series is back! To think that it has been over a year since the last event is astonishing, particularly since the last two acts to grace our stage ended up playing Coachella this year. With a track record like that, its no surprise that this first performance of the 2012 season was a treat to the ears.

The opening act was El Javi Trio, featuring El Javi himself on guitar, Mario Gonzalez on bass and Alistair Wilson on the cajon and an occasional splash cymbal. El Javi wasted no time showing us blistering dexterity and masterful skill on his nylon string acoustic guitar played in a classical style. My favorite moment of this set came near the end when the trio played Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” instrumentally. El Javi’s guitar was mimicking the melody of Freddie’s voice perfectly, and although El Javi had asked everyone to sing along, no one dared interrupt this Stanley Jordan-esque moment of sonic wonder we were all witnessing. Listen to the track stream on the player to the right and join in the satisfaction.

Next on the bill was the husband and wife duo of Jill and Haven Lamoureux, better known as Wing and Hollow. They were backed by drums, upright bass, keys coming through a Nord Electro and on a few songs, an adorable female backup singer named Kim. As Jill stepped up to the mic for the first time we were all captivated by her stunning beauty, which was rivaled only by the even more stunning sound of the delicate, refined and elegant voice with which she began to sing. My mind was trying to make comparisons right away, but her voice was just too unique to go down that path. If I was forced to say “She sounds like…” I would be vague and say she exists in the vast expanse between Shawn Colvin and Norah Jones, living simply on her own. With her gruff but honest husband, Haven, beside her playing acoustic guitar, leading the band and adding an occasional element of comic relief, the duo grabbed the audience and didn’t let them go. They played a delightful cover of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” which catered beautifully to Jill’s sensuous voice. The only thing missing was Joe Perry wailing on a Les Paul out of his villa window. (Things like that occasionally happen at the Sunset Marquis) At one point Haven joked and said they were going to play “The Thong Song”, which caught every male audience member’s attention. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see Jill in a thong, particularly with those bedazzled pumps she was wearing. (Things like that happen at the Sunset Marquis too) She laughed off her chiding husband and broke into an intoxicating song about everything we are “Desperate To Be”. It was gorgeous. Listen to it stream on the player to the right and go for a ride.

The nights’ final act was a 17 year old singer-songwriter named Noah Benardout who came out as excited as you would expect a 17year old to be in such a situation. He was accompanied only by his friend Luke Walton, no not the ex-Laker, but a PRS wielding guitar champion who lit up the night air with his deep chambered tone. They came out blazing on the first song and Noah gripped the audience with his contagious energy and charismatic voice. The song spoke of aeronautics and rockets which, like the rocket sticker on Noah’s holstered telecaster, alluded to this young man’s inevitable launch into the stratosphere of success. (Listen to that breakout track here while it streams). But Noah was just getting started, and there was a lot more to this young talent than just sex appeal and unbridled emotional energy. He jumped straight from acoustic guitar to the keyboard and hammered out a heartfelt original tune which showcased his versatility, his voice continuing to command respect from his falsetto all the way down to the lowest note he could hit. On the next song he picked up the “rocketship” telecaster that was sitting in its stand and belted out a soaring overture to needing guidance as a youth, a poignant song to say the least. And what’s even more impressive is that at such a young age Noah was able to deliver a message of hope to those who may have lived more, but suffered none the less. The show continued effortlessly and ended with a rousing applause. I thoroughly enjoyed Noah’s display of raw emotion throughout his performance and have high expectations for his future success, as do all that were in attendance. Listen to it stream on the player to the right and enjoy.

Evan Brau May, 2012

2012 Summer Acoustic Series Event

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Thu, 03 May 2012 20:49:00 +0000

Friday May 11, 2012 - 7:30 pm

Featuring:

Noah Benardout

Wing and Hollow

El Javi Trio

In partnership with John Varvatos

Gary Clark Jr. & honeyhoney October 22nd 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 21:31:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Producer’s Note:

This was the last scheduled Acoustic Session of the season and in true form it ended on a high note. The opening act was a tall, slender bluesman from Austin, Texas named Gary Clark Jr. He played his red Epiphone hollow body through a Fender VibroChamp amplifier, and he strapped a harmonica around his neck like the greats of yesteryear. The first song he played was “When The Sun Goes Down”, originally made a hit by Leroy Carr in 1935. Well, young Mr. Clark would have made Leroy proud with his mesmerizing rendition of this historical tune. My first impression was that Gary was a modern day Jimmy Reed, and by the end I still felt that way. Although along the twists and turns of his dynamic set, Gary showed us more then just blues covers.

After blasting through his second tune with the style and pulse of John Lee Hooker, he showed us a playful and soulful side by singing a more contemporary R&B track which showcased his vocal talent. A request, “Bright Lights, Big City” was the last song he chose to play, and although Jimmy Reed had a song of the same title, this one was clearly Gary’s own. More than just a bluesman, Gary Clark Jr. is poised to take the world by storm, and honestly I can’t wait for his time to come. I joked with him before the set that I would take a drink every time he made a mistake. He responded by letting me know I’d be drunk, but he was wrong. I never even took a sip. Cheers to you Gary. (Listen to “When The Sun Goes Down” on the player to your right).

honeyhoney was the headliner on this glorious October evening, harvest moon full in the night sky. The energy was high and the crowd was thirsty for stimulation. Suzanne and Ben did their job and provided a heart pounding, tear welling set of emotionally charged tunes that treated the audience to the release they needed. The instrumentation was like nothing we had yet to experience at the Acoustic Sessions. Ben sat and alternated between acoustic and electric guitar while he thumped a kick drum with his right foot and a tambourine with his left, all the while singing perfect harmonies. Suzanne danced around while letting her effortless voice soar and alternating between plucking a mean banjo and playing a fiery fiddle.

Let’s just say these two performers create a very unique live experience that one needs to witness to believe. “My Old Friends” was a great story song that had the audience captivated by the inherent honesty and the brilliant musicianship reminiscent of dueling banjos. And on “Back To You” the foot stomping was unleashed with a fervent sermon about what comes around goes around. Again the guitar and banjo playing on this tune were phenomenal, and the breakdown in the middle of the song had the crowd howling at the full moon. The set was perfectly sculpted, and the songs lived together in a world of balance and inspiration. As far as I’m concerned, HoneyHoney is a must see, even if you don’t like this style of music, you will be moved. (Listen to “My Old Friends” and “Back To You” on the player to your right).

- Evan Brau

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis October 22 2010 @ 7:30 - 9PM

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:44:00 +0000

Event Date: Friday, October 22nd, 2010 @ 7:30PM - 9PM

Address: 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Hotel location: Villa Pool (By RESTAURANT)
Valet parking $10 with validation

Featuring: Brandon Jenner and Leah Felder, honeyhoney and Gary Clark Jr.

7:30PM Doors
8:00PM – Brandon and Leah
8:30PM – Gary Clark Jr
9:00PM - honeyhoney

Brandon Jenner and Leah Felder, honeyhoney and Gary Clark Jr October 22nd 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:32:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Brandon Jenner and Leah Felder:
Malibu natives, Brandon Jenner and Leah Felder have been playing music together almost all their lives. Between Leah's soulful vocals and Brandon's rhythmic guitar works, a truly unique sound has been born. Their incredible feel is equally matched by the quality of their songs. Brandon and Leah were heavily recognized at the Los Angeles Music Awards winning numerous awards for their live performances including Leah for "Front Person of the Year." Their infectious music caught the attention of Warner Bros. Records to which they are currently signed and making their first record.

honeyhoney:
1. What is your musical background?
Suzanne: I learned how to sing from musical theater, obsessing over Mariah Carey and Disney cartoon movie soundtracks that came out when I was a kid. I sang "Part Of Your World" as my fifth grade choir solo... I wore a fin. I also started playing the violin when I was ten and sucked pretty bad.

Ben: I also played violin when I was little. I sucked too but maybe all little kids suck. After violin I picked up the drums and started playing jazz for a while. Soon I realized that no one liked jazz except me, so I started playing guitar and writing songs. I am proud to say I've never worn a costume while performing.
2.Where are you from?
Suzanne: I'm from Strongsville Ohio.
Ben: I'm from New York and Massachusetts.

Gary Clark Jr.:
Gary Clark Jr. began playing guitar at the ripe young age of 12. Born and raised in Austin, TX, Gary continued to play small gigs through his early teens until one day he was noticed by the legendary Clifford Antone, owner of the notable Austin blues club Antone's. Through the connections made by Clifford within his club, Gary soon was sitting in and learning from various musical icons, including the incomparable Jimmie Vaughan. Through the mentoring of Jimmie and others within the Austin music community, Gary began to receive much critical acclaim from both his musical peers and the Austin community as a whole.. At one point, the mayor of Austin proclaimed May 3, 2001 Gary Clark Jr. Day.

Gary went on to win the Austin Music Award for Best Blues and Electric Guitarist on three separate occasions, as well as awards from Blues magazines and associations throughout the country. After playing the nationally televised Austin City Limits and touring with the likes of artists such as Jimmie Vaughan, Pinetop Perkins, and Doyle Bramhall, he continued his performance career by releasing three self-produced albums and scoring the major motion picture "Full Count." He also starred in a principal role in the John Sayles film "Honeydripper" alongside distinguished actors such as Danny Glover and Stacey Keach. Gary is currently in the final stages of completing his fourth full length release album, as well as looking forward to playing the 2010 Crossroads Guitar Festival hosted by Eric Clapton.

Ryan McGarvey and Antonio Pontarelli September 11th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 15:23:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Producer’s Note:

Ryan McGarvey
Antonio Pontarelli

As a guitarist, I know how difficult it can be to pull off acoustically what was born electrically. And also what a pain it can be to wail with an acoustic guitar when there is no rhythm section behind you to fill up all that space. Well, Ryan McGarvey showed me the solution….just grab your guitar out of it’s cozy case, plug it into a digital delay pedal to fill up some of the void during your ripping solos, and commence blowing minds with your tasty licks. Easier said then done right? Well, Ryan got it done.

Aside from being a phenomenal 23 year old guitarist, this young buck has a surprisingly soulful character to his voice. And it’s a rare moment when the energy and texture of two talents combine so comfortably in one performing artist. The song I enjoyed the most is the one available to listen to at this site. Ryan didn’t introduce the song that night, and he didn’t leave behind a set list, so I just labeled it as “Tasty Licks”, because there are so many of them in the track. I’m sure you can always find Ryan McGarvey on the web and ask for the real name of the track. (In fact, please go to his site, you’ll be happy you did.) By the end of an exhilarating set it appeared as though Ryan didn’t want to leave the stage, and the audience was so mesmerized they didn’t even realize he had just ripped a ten minute acoustic guitar solo in their faces, that is, until the four minute crescendo started. It was a glorious ending, the kind you’d expect to see in front of 10, 000 plus, which proves to me that Ryan had a lot of fun, and it was contagious.

The next performer was an amazing 19year old violinist named Antonio Pontarelli. The setup was unlike anything previously attempted at The Acoustic Sessions. There was a Baldwin Baby Grand on stage, and an accompanying acoustic guitar off to the side. Antonio played his electric violin through a gorgeous deep cherry wood grain Mesa Boogie single twelve combo amp. (I seriously almost drooled on his amp). I mic’ed it up with an SM 57 off axis, like I would a Les Paul. It actually turned out sounding really nice, mainly due to some virtuosic playing by Antonio. Antonio’s track on this site is the only instrumental he played that night, but I thought it captured the most moving part of the show.

Don’t get me wrong, Antonio has a beautiful voice, I just have an affinity for the moments when performers put it all out on the limb, when they really dig deep and inspire. That moment was captured in this recording, which I listed simply as “Solo” for yet again I lacked a proper title (I recommend finding this artist online as well). You can really hear the attack in each note, particularly when Antonio let’s loose at the end with some Classical stylings worthy of Carnegie Hall, which apparently this young man has already played. Overall, young Mr. Pontarelli gave an emotional and charismatic performance, one that none in attendance will soon forget.

- Evan Brau

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis September 11 2010 @ 6 - 10PM

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:43:00 +0000

Event Date: Saturday, September 11th, 2010 @ 6PM - 10PM

Address: 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Hotel location: Villa Pool (By RESTAURANT)
Valet parking $10 with validation
21 and up / Invite all friends and family

Featuring: Ryan McGarvey, Antonio Pontarelli and the visual art of Pamelina H

Marcus Eaton, Shawn Hlookoff, Russell Ali featuring Dave Hall, Leah Turner with Trev Lukather and Jamison Boaz, Chloe Jackson with Chris Price Saturday, August 14th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:44:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Producer’s Note:

Well, it was another beautiful evening at the Villa Pool, and the crickets were chirping in anticipation of the magnificent and diverse talent that was due to hit the stage. (You can actually hear the little bugs singing in some of the recordings available on this site for streaming, i.e. “Fiona” by Marcus Eaton) First to take the stage was the adorable Chloe Jackson accompanied by guitarist Chris Price. Chris played his acoustic flat in his lap, the way famed blind guitarist Jeff Healy does, adding an interesting visual element to a well crafted performance. Chloe’s voice was pure, clean and passionate as were the songs. It was a pleasant and gifted performance, and a perfect way to start the show.

Next up was guitarist Russell Ali and his troop of talented friends who shared the stage like a family of wandering gypsies. The falsetto stylings of Dave Hall were the first to grace the mic amid this seriously diverse group of performers. Dave’s Prince-meets-Lenny Kravitz delivery was captivating and ultimately very listenable, which is saying a lot considering how difficult it is to stay in tune in that register while performing live. Accompanying Russell on guitar during Dave’s shot at glory was Jamison Boaz, who sang the next two songs while Russell peppered our ears with some of his patented tasty licks. Then out of the ether of the Sunset Strip came Leah Turner, wearing jeans patched with black lace and wedges from hell. She whipped around her black and blonde two- tone hair, grabbed the mic like a scepter and asked “How’s everyone feeling tonight?” Her voice was sensual and gritty, like tangy salted butter. I knew we were in for a thorough rocking, acoustically…of course. After a few whoops and hollers, she introduced her accompaniment as Trev Lukather (clearly Steve from Toto’s son since they share the same mischievous grin) He gave a quick shout out to Russell for letting them take the stage and then said “I question my sexuality everyday hanging out with him”, which in Hollywood is the ultimate compliment. (Like I said, Steve’s son) Let’s just say they rocked. Then Russell came up to join them for the last song by the most diverse group of talent I’ve seen in a while.

But wait, there’s more. Next to hit the stage was the charming and charismatic Shawn Hlookoff. He had a style like Chris Isaak meets Morrissey and his voice was radiant and true. He played both guitar and piano while he sang, backed up by a bass player and a percussionist who slapped some meter-perfect cajon. His voice never faltered throughout the performance and his songs were captivating and soulful. At one point he asked his rhythm section to take a break and played a song titled “Fool” which vocally, blew me away. You’ll be hearing more from this young Canadian, that I can guarantee.

Last and by far the most awe-inspiring performer of the night was Marcus Eaton, whose skill on guitar left everyone’s jaw agape. Not to mention his songs were inspirational and well crafted, his voice was glistening with tone like John Denver meets James Taylor and his use of loops and pedals made everyone wonder if he was some sort of wizard or mage of performance technology at the 50th level in the World of Musicraft. It seriously sounded like he had a band behind him for most of the night. Although my favorite moment was when he took us back in time to a song called “Fiona” which was just one guitar, one voice and a perplexingly beautiful tune. Marcus led the crowd through a variety of emotions from hilarity on his “Barbie and Ken” song, to romance and vitality on some of his more flamboyant latin numbers. The crowd sang along to “Billie Jean” which he placed strategically in the middle of one of his own creations, and they gave him claps and snaps where ever and whenever he needed them throughout the set. We were all in the palm of his magical hands, on a glorious Hollywood night at the always enchanting Sunset Marquis Hotel.

- Evan Brau

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis August 14 2010 @ 6 - 10PM

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:13:00 +0000

Event Date: Saturday, August 14th, 2010 @ 6PM - 10PM
Call time: 5 pm
Sound check: 5 pm
Address: 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Hotel location: Villa Pool (By RESTAURANT)
Valet parking $10 with validation
21 and up / Invite all friends and family
No cover / No BAR minimum (Great event cocktails / Food prices – “The sliders are awesome!”)

SET LIST:

6:00 pm - Event begins

6:15 pm - Chloe Jackson

6:45 pm - Russell Ali and Davhall

7:15 pm – Russell Ali and Leah Turner

-- 10 Minute Break --

7:45 pm - Shawn Hlookoff

-- 10 Minute Break --

8:30 pm - Marcus Eaton

9:30 pm - Music portion ends

10:00 pm - Event ends

Marcus Eaton August 14th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:02:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

"He's incredible, the best young singer-songwriter I've heard in ages." David Crosby, American Legend and member of Crosby, Stills & Nash

AS IF YOU HAD WINGS "is the apex of what other indie artists should endeavor towards." (click to read full review)

"One of the best performances we've had in our studio. A superstar in the making." Mark & Brian / KLOS-FM

"Marcus weaves a tapestry rich in musical depth and soulful feeling. Sweet impassioned spot-on singing round out this total package of dynamite." Tim Reynolds

Eaton is one of a relative few who, like Sting, can create music that is this complex and yet make it sound easy and natural." George Graham

Marcus Eaton is an independent musician with an extensive catalog of original material spanning rock, funk, reggae, flamenco, classical, jazz and folk. His unique songwriting and groundbreaking guitar playing is recognized by fans and fellow musicians wherever he plays. Marcus' new album, with drummer Kevin Rogers and bassist Garrett Sayers, will be released this fall. MORE INFO: www.marcuseaton.com

The Kin with Evan Brau July 30th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:06:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Producer’s Note:

As I sat on stage strumming my guitar and singing songs whose lyrics have been forever etched in my mind, I couldn’t help but think what a stunning setting The Sunset Marquis provides to both the artist and the audience alike. And in a twist of fate, I was able to partake in both points of view on this enchanting evening. After a nearly mistake free set by yours truly, I had the pleasure of watching and listening to my new friends Thorry and Isaac, better known as The Kin, as they took the crowd through a captivating set of acoustic songs.

At first glance these Australian-born brothers were as charismatic as they come. Thorry struck me as a morph of Sting and George Michael with his blond hair, chiseled features and gruff facial stubble. While Isaac was 500 protein shakes and a pony tail away from being the lead in Thunder From Down Under. All looks aside, I was curious what they had to bring to the stage, because frankly I spend most of the show with my eyes diverted and my ears wide open. A 1969 Gibson Hummingbird acoustic with a sound hole pickup was the instrument of choice, run through a group of pedals that gave it the sound of a sweet but raunchy hollow body. Right out of the gate the guitar punched through the din of the crowd and Thorry’s voice soared as if he were channeling Freddie Mercury live at Wembley Stadium. The presence was so large that all in attendance were instantly silenced of their trivial banter and sucked in to the passion emanating from the stage.

“Who’s driving this car?” wailed Thorry as if to say “Hey, I’m here, singing my guts out…so pay attention”. Clearly, he was driving the figurative car for the evening. After three songs on stage, Thorry looked at Isaac and said “Let’s go”, and in response Isaac quizzically replied, “Already?” Obviously Thorry sought to connect on an even more intimate level with the audience, because the brothers then left the relative safety of the stage and began to play smack dab in the middle of the audience in a truly acoustic fashion. The silence was deafening, and no one dared be the jackass who destroyed the most intoxicating and intimate moment the Villa Pool has ever seen or heard.

Thorry pounded on his guitar and strummed as loud as he could, while Isaac made eye contact with just about everyone, giving us all the feeling that we were witnessing greatness. Their harmonies filled the air with effortless grace and every so often they would sing in unison, which carried a timbre that proved they were indeed, kin. After two storied songs in this makeshift theatre-in-the-round, the brothers climbed back on stage and decided to play some etherial piano through the Nord Electro. It was Isaac’s turn to take the helm it seemed, as his tidbits between songs guided us through the remainder of the set with confidence, clarity and precision. He spoke of the living conditions that brought about the uplifting “Waking Up Shining”, and of their dear Grandmother who encouraged them to find out “Who Has The Diamonds?” Had she only been there, she would have realized that her own kin were “holding the diamonds” all along.

- Evan Brau

The Kin & Evan Brau July 30th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:57:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

The Kin:
Brothers Thorry and Isaac Koren are a long way from singing harmonies in the backseat of the family car in their hometown of Adelaide, Australia. Known as The Kin, they united to create a song as a wedding present for their father in 2003. Instantly, the brothers knew they’d stumbled upon something amazing. As Isaac said, “After we played together we realized that we couldn’t not do this.”

Evan Brau:
Evan Brau is an accomplished singer-songwriter and composer. His songs have been featured on network television programs such as, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (NBC), Commander In Chief (ABC), Alias (ABC), NFL Sunday (FOX), Quarterlife, The Guardian (CBS), Extra (NBC), Monk (USA Network), Undressed (MTV), The Young and the Restless and more. His songs have charted on national college radio.

Josh Gooch and Graham Whitford July 9th 2010

noreply@blogger.com (BAR 1200: Cocktail Lab) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:21:00 +0000

Acoustic Sessions at The Sunset Marquis

Producer’s Note:

In a time when most teenagers are playing guitars made of plastic whose strings have been replaced by multi-colored buttons, the last thing you would expect to see and hear is a pair of 18 year old axe-slinging guitar virtuosos ripping through tunes that were out of style before they were born. But at this unique event held in the cradle of this Rock n’ Roll nursery we call Hollywood, the guests were treated to a display of talent that would make most aspiring guitarists use their instruments as kindling. The show started with one of The Meters top 40 hits “Cissy Strut”, which allowed Graham and Josh to warm up by trading some of their trademark licks, clearly inspired by the blues greats of the past. And then, as if the spirit of Freddie King had been sprinkled over these two young men at birth, they tore through a rendition of “Hideaway” that would make the most stubborn of Blues aficionados crack a smile.

One can only imagine the energy that would be created had these two been wielding blistering electric guitars in place of their acoustic instruments, but in terms of dexterity and technique, the jaw dropping factor was still very apparent. The first attempt at singing came from Graham whose original song “Wildfire” left the crowd cheering for more. Not to be outdone, Josh picked up a dobro and a slide and let his guitar do a little spontaneous singing of its own while Graham backed him up with a delicate and tasty version of the 12 bar blues in D. After a short break, the duo came back with a confident version of Stevie Ray Vaughn’s “Chitlins Con Carne” which seemed to set a perfect tone for the evening as the sun and the drinks were going down smooth.

A dedication was sent out to a “special friend in the house”, followed by a glistening version of The Beatles “Come Together” in which Josh unveiled his vocal prowess. It’s hard to imagine that an 18 year old has had much “Trouble In Love”, but that was the name of Graham’s second original song, which he performed solo while Josh took a moment to mend a broken string. Using his charismatic voice and emotional melodies, Graham sold everyone on the fact that he had endured a tumultuous relationship with a member of the opposite sex. All I kept thinking was “welcome to the club kid”. As Josh reclaimed the stage, he brought guest performer Yogi Lonich with him to sing a rendition of Taj Mahal’s “She Caught The Katy”, which gave the whole night an impromptu vibe of good friends enjoying great music.

As the night came to a close with Josh and Graham on stage improvising their way to a job well done, the crowd was buzzing with optimism from knowing that the music we’ve grown to love is alive and well in the next generation of great performers.