Singers and Songwriters

We had a good time last night with three singer/songwriters, all of whom are excellent at both.  

We began with Showcase newcomer Ashley Jordan.

She's got one of those voices that make you keep listening, engaged and enthralled.  Clear, pure tones, with great passion and inflection throughout.  Good guitar, nice songwriting.  What's not to like?  And she's only seventeen (with two CDs already to her credit).  We're expecting to hear more great things from her in the future, and hoping to have her back to the Showcase before she (too) famous.

Next up was familiar Showcase favorite David Moore.  

David's got a CD about ready to pop, and all the work he's been putting in shows in his effortless delivery, smooth use of (restrained) pedal effects and ringing guitar.  He complained of a cold, but we didn't hear any sign of it in his flexible tenor.  I love David's acoustic pop songs -- serious and playful, great for singing along.  Next time we have him at the Showcase we'll be looking for the CD -- and it's sure to be a hit.

Finally we welcomed Chris Nauman.  Chris was a treat -- an easy stage presence, strong voice, nice song writing, fluid guitar and energetic harmonica.  Complete package.  

A little of a Neil Young feel to his voice, which I really enjoyed -- a kind of high, textured tenor.  Simple, heartfelt lyrics.  Very appealing.

We don't usually get huge audiences at the Showcase, but those who come are here to listen and enjoy.

People drop by, stay as long as they can, maybe enjoy a coffee, chat with the performer between songs -- it's as intimate as your living room, but you don't have to provide the food or clean up after.  And a good time is almost invariably had by all.

Lift Up Your Voice

A great night for great voices at the Showcase.  Varied performers, all with really nice pipes!  

We began with the a cappella group Random Chants. 

We've enjoyed them before at the Showcase, and last night they were in particularly good form, with tight harmonies, great rhythm, and appealing song selection.  Unadorned voices in harmony: about as acoustic as it gets (though we do use mics to project over the sound of grinding coffee and steaming milk).  We'll try to have them back in December for a set of holiday music.

Next we brought on Showcase newcomer Julian Baptista.  Another appealing voice -- a strong, clear tenor (well suited to the Roy Orbison number he covered).  

Julian's set featured numerous originals; with his voice, his effective guitar work and his engaging lyrics, the experience was deeply satisfying.  We'll have him back too!

Finally we welcomed Diane Taraz.  She's familiar to us from previous performances, and she's a real pro, with inventive, well-researched originals and folk songs from a variety of historic periods and traditions.

What a beautiful voice.  She's got good range, great clarity, and supple tone.  Couple this with lovely guitar and dulcimer playing, and you have the makings of a very appealing performance indeed.  Yet another performer we'll look forward to featuring again.

And that's about it from the Acoustic Showcase.  Stop by for the best (free) music in the neighborhood!