Tag Archives: Chris Kasper

Shows

Philly Sings Philly – Tuesdays in November @ The Fire

November 2, 2010 – 8:00 am

Tonight (November 2, 2010) begins the month long, Tuesday night series: Philly Sings Philly at The Fire. Each Tuesday will feature a different bill of Philly artists covering songs by other Philly artists. The whole idea sounds very interesting and is bound to be a lot of fun. Looks like I’ll be spending my Tuesday nights at The Fire this month and I can’t wait!

The Fire
412 West Girard Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19123

Tue 11/2
Andrew Lipke
Wissahickon Chicken Shack
Dawn Iulg
David James
Jessica McDowell
Scott Silipigni
Susan Rosetti

Tue 11/9
Hezekiah Jones
Suzie Brown
Marc Silver
Chris Grunwald
Mason Porter
Ryan Tennis
Kiley Ryan
Ryan Williams

Tue 11/16
Chris Kasper
The Spinning Leaves
Sisters 3
Ross Bellenoit
Johnny Miles
Liz Fullerton

Tue 11/23
Cowmuddy
Brad Hinton
Shannon Pelcher
Allison Polans
Phil D’Agostino
Kevin Killen
Jack Byers

Tue 11/30
Joshua Park
Spirit and Dust
Psalmships
TJ McGlinchey
Reed Kendall
Matt Helm Scream
John Galla
Jaclyn Marie

Have a great Tuesday!

Tags Andrew Lipke, Chris Kasper, Cowmuddy, Hezekiah Jones, live music, Mason Porter, Philly Sings Philly, shows this week, The Fire | Permalink | Comment (1)

Reviews

Live Review: Hezekiah Jones, Naughty Nurses, Drunken Barn Dance, Sisters 3 @ The Fire (8/1/10)

August 3, 2010 – 11:31 pm

I usually stay away from show-going on Sunday nights so I can be well rested for the looming possibility of a manic Monday. But when I heard Hezekiah Jones and Sisters 3 were playing The Fire (Philadelphia, PA) my live music addiction kicked in and my need for rest was a passing thought.

Sisters 3 performed a very lovely set Sunday night opening with an acapella tune that showcased the flawless harmonies and how well Cassandra, Annachristie, and Beatrice voices accompany each other. So, take those harmonies, add: keys, acoustic guitar, percussive instruments, excellent songwriting – and you can understand why I stood in awe as I watched Sisters 3 create musical magic on stage that made my ears smile.

I think I might have seen Drunken Barn Dance before but I’m not sure. Oh well, that’s neither here nor there because I’m positive I saw Drunken Barn Dance Sunday night and they were AWESOME! They are a band with 3 guitars, bass, and drums that have a killer live energy that goes well with their folk rock style. It’s refreshing to see a band not afraid to be alive and animated on stage and kudos to the lead singer/guitarist for that catchy kick/hop step. Well, Drunken Barn dance is from Michigan so I’m not sure when I’ll see them again but I hope it’s not too long.

The special surprise guest of the night was… Naughty Nurses, a 4 member band (vocals, acoustic guitar, and banjo) from Philly. They performed a lyrically fun, musically interesting, unamplified set giving them a minimalist, indie vibe and I enjoyed it.

The penultimate set belonged to Hezekiah Jones who was joined by 5 other members of the Jones family. I’ve seen countless Hezekiah Jones sets and they are often my most memorable musical experiences (this night included) because the music is unmistakably good. Those seemingly endless jams weaved into the songs were unreal. It’s so exciting to see great musicians having fun jamming out on stage. I’m so lucky that I get to see Hezekiah Jones, one of my most favorite artists, play live as often as I do.

In honor of Jerry Garcia’s birthday Chris Kasper, Drew Egmont, Kiley Ryan, Philip D’Agostino, Ross Bellenoit, and Jonah played a set of Grateful Dead tunes to end the show.

I loved the somewhat loose sets and the “we’re all among friends” atmosphere that was in The Fire that night. MAN, it just doesn’t get better than that.

Tags Chris Kasper, Drunken Barn Dance, Hezekiah Jones, Lisa Schaffer, live music, live reviews, Naughty Nurses, Sisters3, The Fire | Permalink | Comment (1)

Reviews

The Philly Folk Parade – May Residency @ The Fire: Final Night (May 25, 2010)

May 28, 2010 – 3:11 am

Last week’s (May 18^th) Philly Folk Parade, hosted by Chris Kasper, was a flawless flow of music like a prefect parade procession. The show began with the relentless, face-melting rock of The Doublewides – that band is musically impressive and extremely entertaining. Then a switch to the back room for a fine solo set by Marc Silver. And back to the front for Birdie Busch’s set which was a duo with Ross Bellenoit – sweet, sweet folk music and no complaints here. Stage switch to Brittany Ann – I’m not familiar with her music but it sounded great – nice touch with the harp. Then it was time for that night’s host: Chris Kasper, an amazingly talented singer/songwriter who was joined by an equally talented group of musicians for a truly outstanding set. The final set in the back room went to Hey Nude Friend I’m Tired, an interesting collaboration between Michael Baker (The Spinning Leaves) and Todd Henkins (The Great Unknown). Cowmuddy, a definite must-see artist, closed the show with a great folk rock set and good times were had by all.

This week’s (May 25^th) Philly Folk Parade show was extraordinary. I’m almost positive that I’ve seen Wissahickon Chicken Shack at least once before but I’m afraid I wasn’t paying much attention then. Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed their music for their sound is a bit too diverse for me to even begin to classify but it’s great. Up The Chain (only 2/5ths of the band: Reed Kendall and Philip D’Agostino) played a nice set in the back room. Then back to the front of the room for Andrew Lipke with a string quartet. Lipke is an excellent singer/songwriter and hearing his music performed with such beautiful string arrangements was spectacular. The great music continued with a super set by The Matt Helm Scream – if you don’t know that band you ought to. Jim Boggia followed with a wonderful solo set that made me realize I should see Boggia live more often. To the back room again for Daniel of the Moonlight who played what sounded like traditional folk songs something quieting fitting for this parade. I have nothing but respect for Hezekiah Jones (Raphael Cutrufello) because he truly is an exceptional singer/songwriter and I was so excited to see how the final set was going to play out. Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many Joneses on stage at once. So, as the set went on it seemed like another Jones took to the stage and added to the harmonious wall of sound. Wow, I couldn’t have thought of a better ending to The Philly Folk Parade May residency at The Fire – perfect!

A huge thank you goes out to The Philly Folk Parade for making Tuesdays in May such memorable, music filled nights – a music lover’s dream come true!

Tags Andrew Lipke, Birdie Busch, Brittany Ann, Chris Kasper, Cowmuddy, Daniel of the Moonlight, Hey Nude Friend I'm Tired, Hezekiah Jones, Jim Boggia, live reviews, Marc Silver, The Doublewides, The Matt Helm Scream, Up The Chain, Wissahickon Chicken Shack | Permalink | Comments (2)

Shows

Saturday, May 22nd – Maysie’s FarmFest 2010 – The Conservation Concert: Local Food, Local Music

May 16, 2010 – 3:31 pm

Maysie’s FarmFest
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Location: 15 St. Andrew’s Lane, Glenmoore, PA 19343
[Ludwig's Corner, Chester County, PA]
Noon – 10:00PM
Tickets: $20 in adv | $25 at the gate
All Ages

The first annual Maysie’s FarmFest will be held Saturday, May 22, 2010 at Maysie’s Farm located at: 15 St. Andrew’s Lane, Glenmoore, PA 19343 [Ludwig's Corner, Chester County, PA]. It will be a day of “Great local music, great local food, and a fun day for the entire family!” The music will be provided by some of Philly’s best artists: Sharon Little, Sisters 3, Hezekiah Jones, Birdie Busch, Chris Kasper, Kuf Knotz, Sweetheart Parade, Bob Beach, Philip D’Agostino, The Great Unknown, The Spinning Leaves, Ross Bellenoit, and Lauren Adams. Also on the bill are: The Country Devils, and special guest Appalachian Uprising.

Maysie’s Farm Conservation Center is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to improving public understanding of the importance of conservation and ecological thinking. We pursue our mission primarily by working toward a local, sustainable food system. Our advocacy, community development and educational programs address the environmental, social and economic problems of the industrial, chemical based, food system and our farm demonstrates some of the alternatives available through a local, sustainable food system. On our seven acres of organically managed beds, we produce vegetables and fruits for about 200 households through our CSA, or Community Supported Agriculture program, which is in its 14th season. We have also started two seasonal Farmers Markets as well as a Farm and School Partnership with a local elementary school. We created and administer the Sustainable Agriculture Internship Training Alliance of Southeastern Pennsylvania and encourage and facilitate new farmers and the start-up of new farms. We promote organic food production, local food production and the development of community around food production.

For more information visit the Fest’s official site: www.maysiesfarmfest.org

Tags Appalachian Uprising, Birdie Busch, Bob Beach, Chris Kasper, Hezekiah Jones, Kuf Knotz, Lauren Adams, Maysie's FarmFest, Philip D'Agostino, Ross Bellenoit, Sharon Little, shows this week, Sisters3, Sweetheart Parade, The Country Devils, The Great Unknown, The Spinning Leaves | Permalink | Comment (1)

Reviews

The Philly Folk Parade: May Residency — The Fire

May 6, 2010 – 3:48 am

Currently, The Philly Folk Parade is a 4 shows, every Tuesday night in May, residency at The Fire. The event was organized by The Spinning Leaves and Hezekiah Jones. Each Tuesday will feature a different host and a different bill of artists performing.

The first night of the residency (May 4, 2010) was hosted by The Great Unknown. The sets alternated from the front stage to the back room allowing for more music which was a great idea. So, between the 2 stages there were performances by: Jack Ohly, Sean Hoots, Sisters 3, Warren Longmire (spoken word poet), The Great Unknown, Joshua Park, and Toy Soldiers. All the artists performed such great sets that made for a truly incredible night of music.

It’s really nice to see The Philly Folk Parade growing and influencing the Philly music community in a positive way. With the momentum and energy this parade has I see nothing but great things for The Philly Folk Parade in the future.

The Philly Folk Parade at The Fire
412 W. Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA‎
every Tuesday in May
9:00PM | 21+
5/11 – The Spinning Leaves + more
5/18 – Chris Kasper + more
5/25 – Hezekiah Jones + more

I’ll see you there!

Tags Chris Kasper, Hezekiah Jones, Jack Ohly, Joshua Park, live reviews, Sean Hoots, Sisters3, The Fire, The Great Unknown, The Philly Folk Parade, The Spinning Leaves, Toy Soldiers, Warren Longmire | Permalink | Comments (2)

Shows

The Lowlands Reunite!

February 17, 2010 – 2:07 am

The Lowlands Return to Philadelphia…

The Lowlands, Philadelphia’s beloved bluegrass project featuring: Chris Kasper, Adrien Reju, Todd Barneson, and Jeff Hiatt, will reunite this weekend for a few, very special performances in the Philadelphia, PA area. The details about these upcoming shows are listed below. If you have a chance to make one of these shows I highly recommend you do so.

Friday, February 19, 2010
THE LOWLANDS
The Blinkin Lincoln (at Holy Smoke)
473 Leverington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128
with: Eb Hawkins Band
9:00PM

Saturday, February 20, 2010
THE LOWLANDS
Sellersville Theater 1894
24 W. Temple Avenue, Sellersville, PA 18960-2421
opening for: Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder
3:00PM and 8:00PM

The Lowlands: website | Myspace

Tags Adrien Reju, Blinkin Lincoln, Chris Kasper, Eb Hawkins, Jeff Hiatt, Ricky Skaggs, Sellersville Theater, shows this week, The Lowlands, Todd Barneson | Permalink | Comment (0)

Reviews

The Blinkin Lincoln: 1 Year Anniversary Celebration (11/28/09)

November 30, 2009 – 1:03 am

On Saturday night I went to The Blinkin Lincoln to witness the 1 year anniversary celebration show that included: Andrew Lipke, Zach Djanikian, Cowmuddy, and Chris Kasper all on the same bill. The show began with Andrew Lipke performing an incredible solo, acoustic set. Zach Djanikian and band (Jaron Olevsky-bass, a drummer, Andrew Lipke-keys, for a few songs) followed with a good set and although I’m not too familiar with Djanikian’s music I really enjoyed listening to it. Then it was time for Cowmuddy and band (Chris Kasper-guitar, Freddie Berman-drums, and Jim Stager-bass) and that was one great set. Not only do I like Cowmuddy’s (Michael McShane) music but it’s always fun to see what random bits of wisdom he might share with his audience. Last, but by no means least, was Chris Kasper who performed a solo, acoustic set that was so amazing. Kasper even played a few brand new songs (with Freddie Berman on drums) which was a nice treat. Needless to say, it was a fantastic night of music at The Blinkin Lincoln and the perfect anniversary celebration. So, happy 1 year anniversary to The Blinkin Lincoln and I wish you many more.

Tags Andrew Lipke, Chris Kasper, Cowmuddy, live reviews, The Blinkin Lincoln, Zach Djanikian | Permalink | Comment (0)

Reviews

[Album Review] Chris Kasper: Chasing Another Sundown

September 8, 2009 – 1:42 am

Chris Kasper
Chasing Another Sundown (2009)

1. Old Smoke
2. Ain’t No Saint
3. The Treehouse
4. One False Move
5. Fires Burn Down
6. Hey August
7. Devil’s Gold
8. Loosely Pray
9. The Farthest Shore
Outro: “Blues Bust In”

Chasing Another Sundown is the newest album by singer-songwriter Chris Kasper. It couples his incredible songwriting skills with a robust musical deliverance that results in a true musical masterpiece. Fans of Kasper’s previous albums (FlyingBoy and Trust the Tale, Not the Teller) will undoubtedly liken to Chasing Another Sundown as a new favorite. And new listeners to Kasper’s music will realize the incredible artistry that Chris Kasper possesses.

Chasing Another Sundown opens with “Old Smoke” – a great opening track. With lyrics like “old smoke sits round the room while I’m stuck in the trees like a stranded balloon” you get an immediate taste of that Kasper vivid, true to life imagery. “The Treehouse” has a dreamy melody, a circular sounding drum beat (thanks to Fred Berman), beautiful backing vocals, and deep, thought provoking lyrics (“oh what’s one to do when the future’s not yet true.”). “One False Move” – an excellent cover of a Dan Kelly song. There’s definitely a story in those lyrics. Dawn Iulg and Claire Wadsworth provide flawless backing vocals that will stay with you like a beautiful haunting. “Hey August” – I love the light as air feel that the pedal steel (played by Adam Davis) provides. Maybe because it’s titled “Hey August” or literal interpretation of the lyrics that I get a summer feel from that song. “Devil’s Gold” – WOW, love that horn section which gives that song a near “big band” sound and adds to Kasper’s style diversity. “Loosely Pray” – I thoroughly love the entire album but this has got to be my favorite song. I love the lyrics especially the chorus: “do right what you came to do/roll on inside a tune/catch a cloud in your parachute/and loosely pray that you don’t fade away”, Kasper’s voice shines so brightly on this track, Adrien Reju’s vocals are absolutely perfect for the song, and that pretty sounding pedal steel can be heard again. The perfect song if I ever heard one. Outro: “Blues Bust In” – a lovely last hoorah of a number that might cause spontaneous fits of movement (i.e. – dancing).

I’ve listened to Chasing Another Sundown in its entirety countless times and it is nothing short of amazing. I have to thank: Chris Kasper, Jeff Hiatt (producer and bass player), and all the guest musicians on the album for creating music worth listening to. So, I highly recommend you give Chasing Another Sundown by Chris Kasper a listen and if you like it – buy it!

Chris Kasper “Loosely Pray” from Chasing Another Sundown…

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Chris Kasper: website | Myspace | Facebook

Where to buy Chasing Another Sundown? iTunes, and CD Baby

Tags Chasing Another Sundown, Chris Kasper, Jeff Hiatt, Reviews | Permalink | Comment (0)

Reviews

The Review: A Look At Shows Past

September 3, 2009 – 12:54 am

I would love to be able to blog as soon as I’ve seen a show but lately that just isn’t possible. I guess I go to too many shows and just don’t always have the time to sit down and write something “blog worthy”. So, for now this is how we’ll catch-up on show reviews.

Tags Birdie Busch, Chris Kasper, Forever Lost in a Song, Hezekiah Jones, Jeremy Hollis, Lisa Bianco, live music, live reviews, The Blinkin Lincoln, The Doublewides, The Fire, The Low Anthem, The Spinning Leaves, XPN | Permalink | Comment (0)

Reviews

The Hustle, Chris Kasper, Jeremy Hollis at Johnny Brenda’s (Aug. 22, 2009)

August 23, 2009 – 8:57 pm

I had so much fun last night at Johnny Brenda’s for The Dude Hates Cancer after-party where Jeremy Hollis, Chris Kasper, and The Hustle performed. It was a fantastic night of music for a very deserving cause. Please view the follow video clips to get a glimps as to how the night went.