A bitter-sweet Acoustic Showcase last night, as Ayan Sanyal played for the last(?) time before heading off to college in the fall. He's bound for the wilds of Waltham, which means he won't be able to make it back to Lexington? (I don't quite get the logic there, but we'll worry about it later.
The entertaining evening began with David Keevil, Don Strauss and Will Ryan playing their folk-pop originals, with a few mid-60's covers to spice things up. Will makes a wonderful addition with his mandolin, adding punch and tingle to up-tempo numbers, and moody tone with the larger octave mandolin on slower songs.
Then we heard from Via Perkins. This is her third time playing the Showcase, and she just keeps getting better. Thoughtful lyrics, a lovely voice, and ringing guitar. She gave us a thrill by opening with the world premier of a song she just finished last night! Thanks, Via! We're looking forward having her back soon.
And finally, Ayan Sanyal, solo. He's reeeeelly good -- jazzy, punchy guitar; deft lyrics; lots of up-tempo vim and vigor. A treat. Pleeeeze come play again, Ayan! We'll send a taxi to Waltham and pick you up! College life is over-rated anyway -- you'll want to come home and visit your family every weekend! (Good luck, and all that.)
