Boston Loves Music

Greetings All!  Hope everyone has a happy 4th, and summer is off to a good start. ~ Tim

*** NO Open Mic July 3rd Ward 4

Postponed for the holiday. We'll be back in action the following week.

*** Melissa Mao Salutation Party!

Monday, July 22nd at Porter Belly's Acoustic Open Mic.

Join us to say salutations to our friend, Melissa Mao, whose wonderful voice and songwriting have become a regular treat during open mic's. She'll be heading to New Jersey to further her Health field education. We'll miss her! Melissa will perform a double set a little after 8:30pm.

A link to her music: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bamboomelissamao/in-arms

*** Thanks Thom G!

Porter Belly's guest host will be Thom G on Monday, July 1st. Go easy on him!

> MUSIC BIZ

***Want to record and release music?

You'll regret not doing it "the right way". Don't be hasty. What is the "right way"? Well, that's a lengthy topic, but to get your wheels turning, here's a good starter read from Discmakers.

https://www.discmakers.com/pdf/successful-album-release.pdf

***Music Resource Directory

Last month, we announced a directory for music resources around the Boston area. We'd love your feedback. What are we missing, what more would you like to see, what would you like to see different?

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/directory

> PORCHFESTS

***Shelburne Falls Porch Music Festival -(The only one in July that we could find!)

***Find more Porchfests and info at our site: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

>UPCOMING SHOWS

***If you're playing a gig or porchfest, let us know by filling out this form.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

*** Gigs Within Our Community (turn phone sideways for better view)

*** Melrose Summer Stroll featuring Andrew Gravel of Gravel Project

Check out the beautiful downtown of Melrose, MA on Friday, July 26th, 6-9pm. Presented by the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Melrose, the streets are closed to vehicles. Tons of folks enjoy walking up and down the streets, exploring shops and restaurants while enjoying four stages of music coordinated by BostonLovesMusic/TIMKO. This year features headliner, Andrew Gravel of the Gravel Project. 

***Steam Kettle Music Festival at Hale

Saturday, September 28 · 11:30am - 6:30pm

Grab your camping chair, swing by the food trucks and beer garden, and enjoy a full day of live music from local bands!

Tix here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/steam-kettle-music-festival-tickets-862371776197?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

Hale Education, Inc.

80 Carby Street Westwood, MA 02090

Bands announced: Tokyo Tramps, Three at Home, Molly Grace, Lee Wilson, Amanda Shea and the Snack Pack, Brothers McCann, Louder Than Milk, Portrait in Jazz, Tennille Ja'Nae

Beer Garden: Black Hat Brew Works

Food Trucks: Gonzalez, Fanny's.

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

(pictured: Tim, Ryan, Danny)

Howdy folks,

Congrats to all the grads and their families. Hope you all are off to a wonderful summer, keeping music in the throws.

~ Tim

***Father’s Day Jamboree

Sunday, June 16th, 5-8pm

at Donohue’s Bar and Grill

Featuring Emily Sacala’s “Triplets & Dad” band, The Bolles Family as Group Five, Timko & Son, and more! Timko and friends swap the stage for short sets of fun songs. If you’d like to play a short set in a positive Father’s Day theme, send me a message.

*** Music Resource Directory

So many of you have asked, so we've decided to attempt a list of music resources in the Greater Boston area. Here you'll find places to record, take lessons, find podcasts and articles and more. We hope to continue to tweak the info. Please check it out and let us know if there's anything further you'd like to see!

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/directory

*** Folks, please allow me a moment to share with you my love and appreciation for the gracious Danny Pepper, who will be moving to CO for an unknown amount of time. In 2015, I had been hired to start up an open mic at Devlin's in Brighton. It's not any easy thing to get off the ground. At the same time, there was a very popular open mic at Terry O'Reilly's in Newton which Danny spent much time at, hosted by the infamous Andrew Geano and Terrance Reeves. (It was a wild and youthful spot). For reasons, I'll let Danny fill you in on, he found my Devlin's and made it his home. But not only that, he was and always has been a huge promoter of our open mics. He spent tons of time pulling in new faces, backing them up on guitar when needed, and being a welcoming gent. Devlin's open mic's success was certainly helped by Mr. Pepper. Dan is a fantastic songwriter, cool guitar player, and has one of my favorite voices in the scene. I'm so excited for his next adventure, which he'll share with his lady love, Ryan Helen. I'll be helping out with sound at their send off party this Thursday, June 13th at the American Legion in Newton. Hope to see you there! Further details down below.

> MUSIC BIZ

***Gigs to Get

iBook Things is a very interesting music promo and booking resource. They book for the Silhouette Lounge and Notch, both in Brighton. It's worth exploring their site. Even more cool, they have created this unique open-resource where you can add in your own music/band info. Please be respectful and follow their directions/criteria. You'll find it on this page after reading the first paragraph. https://www.ibookthings.com/contact

> PORCHFESTS

in June: Dorchester, Franklin, Medford, Newton, West Concord, Winchester, Arlington, Fenway, Reading, Dedham, Quincy.

...if you're playing a porchfest, please let us know by filling out the "Gig Submission Form" which will be included in each newsletter.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

Folks, this Porchfest movement is really unique and has been growing like wildfire. It’s such a great opportunity to have a show, create a party, and visit different areas. My crystal ball says this may not last forever, so we should take advantage of it while it’s here.

Most of the communities have their porchfest sign up info out. Check it out here.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

>UPCOMING SHOWS

***Make Music Boston

...a free music festival like no other!

"On June 21, 2024 – the longest day of the year – the streets of Boston come alive with hundreds of free live music performances and events for all ages and genres of music! " - makemusicday . org

https://makemusicday.org/boston/listings/artists

*** "Dirtbag Dreams" - A super send off to our longtime open mic friend, Danny Pepper and his gal + awesome open mic singer/guitarist, Ryan Helen Dorsey. These Rockers are headed to the Rockies!

Thursday, June 13th

at American Legion Nonantum Post 440

295 California St, Newton, MA 02458

Doors at 6pm., show 7-11pm.

FREE ENTRY (donations accepted, bar is cash only, atm at venue)

The night will feature musical performances by Danny, Ryan, and a slew of their friends! Don't miss it.

note: turn Phone sideways for easier mobile view.

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

Greetings All!

*** Happy Mother's Day to all those that apply. A little known fact: the Guild D-25 I'm most often found playing is actually my Mother's guitar... she let me take it to college and it's been in my hands ever since. Most of my early learning came from playing that Guild every week in the church choir alongside my Mom.

*** Memorial Day Weekend

Let's remember to keep in mind those who have served our country with the ultimate sacrifice. In 1868, "General John A. Logan's General Orders No. 11 urged the nation to never forget the Civil War's human cost: ...Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic." ~ from cem.VA.Gov

*** 37,000 Flags on Boston Common

"A sea of 37,000 U.S. flags adorn the Common, one for each of the service members from the Bay State who died in action since the Revolutionary War." - from WBUR . This is a wonderful place to visit and a site to see on during the holiday weekend.

*** GoFundMe for my friend/neighbor with Brain Cancer.

Our neighbors have set up a GoFundMe page for the family. If you're able to donate, your generosity will of course be greatly appreciated.

Contribute here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/sf4n7-fighting-chance?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer

~ Happy Spring! ~ Tim

> REVIEWS

*** Zedervan/ Blue Our Show

A full house and a ton of our open mic community mobbed the Rockwood Music Hall on April 12th. Blue Our, featuring Ben Cooper and Ace Kelly played a great acoustic-y set with harmonies and instrument switching. The audience was cozy-warm by the time Zedervan walked on.  The band led by Sam Little, exploded with a mix of roots rock and harmonies ala Alabama Shakes, featuring Micki Dupnik, Michael O'Keefe, and Mike Pertell. The sound guy did a fantastic job.

On a sad note, the Rockwood has announced it is closing-its-doors. The sister venue of NYC's version said the bar couldn't cover the costs, and that they'd pay their "outstanding balances". This is too bad. It was a really nice room with very tall ceilings making a small room seem big. Our friend, Kai Wilson, had a show there on 5/3 that has now been moved to the Cantab. See the 'Upcoming Shows' section for more info.

> ALBUM RELEASES

*** Kai Wilson

Debut album ‘Old School Simple Love’ drops on all streaming platforms, Friday, May 3rd!

https://linktr.ee/kaiwilson_official

> VENUE RECOMMENDATION

The PORCH Southern Fair and Juke Joint

175 Rivers Edge Dr, Medford, MA 02155

Why I like it... Great live music in the roots/blues/country vibe. No Cover Charge for the early shows or weekend afternoon music. Sunday has the blues jam. The late shows will have touring acts and local big names for a reasonable cover charge. Delicious BBQ style cooking. $2 PBR draft special. One side has 2 nice pool tables, a few video games, pub tables, the other side has plenty of tables, the bar and the joint also has outdoor seating.

> UPCOMING SHOWS

*** Boston Calling Music Festival - an annual Memorial Day Weekend three day, multi-stage concert.

May 24 - 26, "More than 50 artists are part of the Boston Calling 2024 lineup, including 20+ local to New England. Among the local acts and artists who originated from the area are indie pop outfit Beach Weather, hip-hop artist kei, singer-songwriter Kieran Rhodes, and R&B/soul band Bad Rabbits, who were the very first act to take the stage at the first Boston Calling back in 2013." ~Boston,com

*** Porchfests in May featuring many of our open mic community.

Sat. May 11, 12-6pm. Somerville Porchfest.

More Info: https://somervilleartscouncil.org/porchfest

Saturday, May 18, 2024, 12pm - 7pm, Malden Porchfest

More Info: https://www.maldenporchfest.org/

Saturday, May 18, 2024, 12-5pm, Watertown Porchfest

More Info: https://watertownporchfest.org/

*** "Dirtbag Dreams" - A super send off to our longtime open mic friend, Danny Pepper and his gal + awesome open mic singer/guitarist, Ryan Helen Dorsey. These Rockers are headed to the Rockies!

Thursday, June 13th

at American Legion Nonantum Post 440

295 California St, Newton, MA 02458

Doors at 6pm., show 7-11pm.

FREE ENTRY (donations accepted, bar is cash only, atm at venue)

The night will feature musical performances by Danny, Ryan, and a slew of their friends! Don't miss it.

>>> If you have a show next month or beyond, and want it listed in a future email blast, follow the next link to fill out the form. This form is available only to those who are in the TIMKO open mic community.

Gig Submission Form:

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

Also, we welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

Greetings All!

*** Save the Date

"Dirtbag Dreams" - A super send off to our longtime open mic friend, Danny Pepper and his gal + awesome open mic singer/guitarist, Ryan Helen Dorsey. These Rockers are headed to the Rockies!

Thursday, June 13th

at American Legion Nonantum Post 440

295 California St, Newton, MA 02458

Doors at 6pm., show 7-11pm.

FREE ENTRY (donations accepted, bar is cash only, atm at venue)

The night will feature musical performances by Danny, Ryan, and a slew of their friends! Don't miss it.

*** Porchfests:

Check out the updated list of Porchfests HERE: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

note: If you're booked to play a porchfest, please let us know by filling out this form and we'll include it in our next email blast. HERE: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

*** GoFundMe for my friend/neighbor with Brain Cancer.

Friends, I am sharing this with you. If you've been to my house for a Porchfest/block party years ago, you've rubbed elbows with my friend/neighbor, Tim Hillios and his family. As well, his smiling face has been the opening image on my iPad for the past 2 1/2years, ever since he was diagnosed with a grade 4 Glioblastoma, a vicious brain tumor. Tim H has a wonderful wife and two awesome daughters, plus a couple of sweet dogs. At this time, his prognosis is poor and time is limited. Our neighbors have set up a GoFundMe page for the family. If you're able to donate, your generosity will of course be greatly appreciated.

Contribute here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/sf4n7-fighting-chance?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer

*** LEGO-LOCAL-LOCO!!!

Here's a super fun success story & message from our community member, Jennifer Tefft: "Breaking News: LEGO has announced its Rock & Roll Playset series, with bands from around the country getting LEGO-fied to accompany the new line of summer festivals and live music venues. Incredibly, Jennifer Tefft & The Strange have been selected to be the Massachusetts representative (!!!), and we just received the mini-figure prototypes. We are so honored to be included in this!" ~ Jennifer Tefft

https://jennifertefft.com/

> RESIDENCY SPOT LIGHT, Here's two things very cool worth putting on your radar.

***Josh Lederman and the Cambridge-Somerville All-Stars

Plough and Stars

4-6pm, check calendar... he usually plays once or twice a month on a Sat. or Sun.

It is such a cool scene. He sings and plays acoustic on a lot of creole songs and as the show goes on, musicians in his circle start joining in with a variety of horns fiddles banjos guitars and what not. It is one of my favorite musicals experiences to check out in our Boston area. -TK

***Entire Robot

Here, seasoned Boston musician, 'Cowboy' Ben Alman creates a whacky infusion of keys, synth, bass, and more.  As well, he'll get together to improvise in numerous ways with the alien-talented Jeremy Parker (he played keys on Cold Car's song, "Rolling Along") Entire Robot is funky, groovy, jazzy and fun.

https://www.facebook.com/TheEntireRobot?mibextid=LQQJ4d

stream live

www.twitch.tv/theentirerobot

>UPCOMING SHOWS

***Local Music Night at Ward 4

Thursday, April 25th

Featured Performer, Ryan Kim & Friends. Hosted by TIMKO

at Ward 4, Auburndale

Ryan Kim plays a great mix of classic rock including the Allman Brothers, Grateful Dead, & Neil Young. He has been coming to our open mics since long before Covid, but much more often 'after' covid! The night will feature TIMKO 6:30 -7:45, Ryan Kim 8:00 - 8:30, Friends Jam 8:45 - 9:30pm

- Ward 4 has an inviting, warm atmosphere, delicious contemporary food, and live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

https://www.ward-4.com/

*** Zedervan, Blue Our

Friday, April 12th,

at Rockwood Music Hall

https://www.rockwoodboston.com/

88 Van Ness Street, Boston, MA, 02215

Zedervan: (Sam Little, Micki Dupnik, Mike Pertell, Michael O'Keefe)

Blue Our: (Ben Cooper, Ace Kelly)

Doors: 6:30PM | Show: 7:00PM

Tix Here: https://www.seetickets.us/event/zedervan/592661

note: these 2 groups are familiar faces at our open mics scenes, good people, and fantastic musicians!

*** Jazz Fest in Melrose

Sunday, April 28th, 4-8pm

at Follow Your Art Community Studios

647 Main St., Melrose, MA

https://www.fyamelrose.org/

... A first time community even put on by FYACS and Oren Santillo.

*** More Shows

note:  If you have a show in May or beyond, and want it listed in the next email blast, follow the next link to fill out the form. This form is available only to those who are in the TIMKO open mic circle.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

We welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!

>OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

Greetings All,

> PORCHFESTS

Porchfest season is upon us! We've listed some of them that have a closing deadline by March 31st! As more info comes in, we'll list it on our site, here: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

(Porchfests are community events featuring local love music in neighborhoods.)

Malden Porchfest on Saturday, May 18th, 12pm - 7pm, Rain date: Sun. May 19th

Registration is open from Feb. 1 - Mar 31st

Apply / More Info: https://www.maldenporchfest.org/

Watertown Porchfest on Saturday, May 18th 12-5pm, Rain Date Sunday, May 19th

Registration is open from March 1st - April 28th

https://watertownporchfest.org/

Franklin PorchFest 2024 on Saturday, June 1, 12:00 - 6:00 pm, Rain date Sunday June 2nd

Registration is open February 15 through March 31, 2024.

https://franklin.porchfest.info/

Newton Porchfest 2024 on June 1st 2024 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Rain date Sunday June 2nd

Signups are open through March 31

Auburndale | Lower Falls | Waban Center

https://newton.porchfest.info/

Dorchfest 2024, (Dorchester), June 1st 2024 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm.

Rain date and registration deadline are not listed at the time of this posting.

Note: This is not a Porchfest for "everyone", as the committee choice picks the acts. Still, there is a link to throw your hat in the ring.

Quote from Dorchfest: "Preference will be given to ...help us achieve our mission of representation and diversity...", "We pay our performers. ...high quality, diverse and enjoyable for the audience."

https://dorchfest.com/apply-to-perform/

West Concord Porchfest 2024 on Saturday, June 8th, 1-5pm, rain date, Sun., June 9th

No registration deadline as of this posting, sign up currently open.

Follow:  https://www.facebook.com/westconcordporchfest/

Apply: https://www.westconcordporchfest.org/sign-up

Arlington Porchfest

Saturday June 15, 2024

Registration will open March 7, 2024!

https://arlingtonporchfest.org/

> RESIDENCY SPOT LIGHT

Every 2nd Thursday of the month.

A funky, groovy Big Band. Holy brass, Batman! This is a very unique experience. Not sure where or how you'll ever find this again. A full big band horn section, also with keys, percussion, drums, bass, guitars, and the occasional guest star rapper. The band is so big, the place looses table space. So cool. So rare. Highly recommended. Sally's has a small but delicious pub menu, as well as all the yummy drafts and cocktails anyone would need.

Quote: "reminiscent of Duke Ellington and Count Basie while infusing funk, soul and hip hop, BT ALC Big Band has created an undeniably unique sound they dub Big Band Funk."

BT/ALC Big Band

https://www.btalc.com/

Every 2nd Thursday of the month.

at Sally O'Brien's in Union Square, Somerville, MA. 7:30pm. 2 sets. $15

https://www.sallyobriensbar.com/music/

> PODCAST SPOT LIGHT

Above the Basement

Check out this awesome podcast by Above the Basement. It features discussions with a slew of local musicians. Lots of interesting stuff!!

https://abovethebasement.com/episodes

> RELEASES

***Lisa Bastoni

"On The Water " album release date, March 8th, 2024.

"Produced by Sean Staples, On The Water was recorded live over the course of three days at Zachariah Hickman’s Greedy Beast Studios in Watertown MA. The album features Sean Staples, Rich Hinman, James Rohr, and Chris Anzalone, with special guest vocalists Mark Erelli, Kris Delmhorst, and Rose Cousins. On The Water is Bastoni's first full-length release since 2019's How We Want to Live. From salt water to sink water, from a cup of tea to the whole entire ocean, Lisa Bastoni’s latest album, On The Water, is a cycle of twelve vivid songs exploring observations of daily life and memories washed ashore."

*** Bam Boo

...from Melissa Mao, one of our fine Porter Belly open mic'rs.

Single: In Arms

Available here! https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bamboomelissamao/in-arms

About: "In Arms" is a song that mourns failed friendships—the kind where late-night talks about white picket fences turn into, well, no talks at all. The breadth of distorted guitars and heavy-hearted vocals communicate that some relationships just can't be fixed.

BAM BOO is a new project started by Tim Ye and Melissa Mao

> UPCOMING SHOWS

Many of you who are regulars from Devlin's and Porter Belly's open mic will remember visits from the touring duo, Jamie and the Guarded heart, who travel up to the Boston area a few times a year. They'll be around again this March. See you there!

Jamie and the Guarded Heart

Sunday, March 24th

at Midway Cafe

Jamaica Plain, MA

doors at 3pm. Band at 4:30pm. $10.

>>> If you have a show in April or beyond, and want it listed in the next email blast, follow the next link to fill out the form.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

We welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!

>OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

>GREETINGS ALL!

*** Here's a Valentine's song I'd like to share with you again. 

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/track/2577941/st-valentine-live

*** This February 14th, Valentine's Day, Paramount Pictures releases "One Love", a Bob Marley biopic. When I first saw this ad on TV, I thought, "It's about time!". I can't wait. Hopefully it's good, but usually these picts are meh. I'm still going to try to see it!

*** 2 Special Open Mics for February

Mon. Feb 5th at Porter Belly's, feel welcome to bring your Bob Marley covers to celebrate his birthday on 2/6.  On Wed., Feb 14th, Val. day, come to Ward 4 to celebrate Valentines Day, or the lack of, or lean it towards Bob's reggae again, since that's the day the movie is released!

***Here's my quick little Bob Marley story... When I was 17, I severely disobeyed my mother by sneaking out on a school night to drive to Giants Stadium to see the Grateful Dead. I had tried to lie and say I was sleeping over a friend's house, but it didn't work. She grounded me for the whole summer to not see any concerts, AND I had to paint the bottom exterior of our two story home, all summer! Well, when I was painting my penance, I decided to see what this Bob Marley guy was all about. I had a small boom box and purchased the cassette, "Talkin' Blues". I'll tell you now that this is a fantastic album, but at the time, I felt it was a tough listen because I didn't know how to listen to reggae! I had it on repeat, but never got the bug until a few years later when a college friend told me that I needed to focus on the bass. A-ha! As a kid growing up playing guitar, and radio being so guitar focussed, I initially found reggae to be boring... until that moment when I let my ears begin with the bass as the focal point, and then sense all the other instruments surrounding it. Amazing. As well, the Talkin' Blues album is the epitomy of a tight band. It consists of live recordings at a radio station during their early 70's tours. Impressive.

*** Some new open mics have popped up in our area.

Check it out: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

Have a great February. Punxsutawney Phil suggests an early spring!!!

~ Tim

>UPCOMING

Lowell Winter Fest, Feb. 16 & 17

Lowell WinterFest returns to Downtown Lowell on February 16th & 17th! This beloved annual event will feature two days of exciting activities and attractions for all ages, including live music, performances, art and, of course, the soup competition. * Bands include: xtine and the intents, the evolutionists, sons lunaris, old rochelle, alligator wine, the funrazors, dis-n-dat, deamon chilli

More information will be posted on the Lowell WinterFest Facebook page, and www.LowellWinterFest.com

>MUSIC BIZ

*** N.E.R.F.A. 2024

Registrations are now open for the conference. November 20-24, 2024 at the beautiful Holiday Inn By the Bay in Portland, Maine! Early bird prices through February are $275!

https://tickets.nerfaconference.org/e/nerfa-2024

>RELEASES (from our scene)

Check out these new releases by our Porter Bellys Open Mic'rs.

...from "Heavy Metal Joe"

Artist: Closeline

Song: Rust

About: Boston based Post-Hardcore band with heavy pop-punk influences. We met on Craigslist. Sometimes we're heavy, sometimes we're not. Our first single "Rust" now streaming on Spotify and Apple Music. 

https://open.spotify.com/track/4aSBbY8lqK8ho1lAoCxhUe?si=dJcGI5OQRyeqHVSadGAb5Q

...from Melissa Mao

Artist: BAM BOO

Song: In Arms

Release date: February 16 (2024), on all streaming platforms

Pre-save on Spotify: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bamboomelissamao/in-arms

About: "In Arms" is a song that mourns failed friendships—the kind where late-night talks about white picket fences turn into, well, no talks at all. The breadth of distorted guitars and heavy-hearted vocals communicate that some relationships just can't be fixed.

BAM BOO is a new project started by Tim Ye and Melissa Mao

...from Tom Anderson

Punk folk dream song inspired by Keats poem, “The Eve of St. Agnes".

Thanks to Yulia Price on violin, Ethan Mackler on bass, Patrick Gaulin on drums. And thanks to Cynthia White for her cover art (Artwork used with permission ©Cynthia White).  Lyrics and music ©2023 Tom Anderson

>UPCOMING SHOWS (from our scene)

>>> If you have a show in January or beyond, and want it listed in the next email blast, follow the next link to fill out the form.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

I welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!

>OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

Mondays…

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

Wednesdays…

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

Thursdays…

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

For further details and more area open mics, visit: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

***ABOUT

This newsletter is intended to connect our evolving Boston area open mic community, including 6 degrees of separation. Compiled by Tim Kochanski, aka, TIMKO . www.timkomusic.com

Happy New Year everyone.

*** Special shoutout and thank you to Danny Pepper for covering for me at several open mics. My oldest son is a senior in high school and in his final wrestling season. Many of his matches have fallen on open mic nights, and I truly am grateful for Danny holding the wheel and you all still enjoying the stage and community.

COMMUNITY

*** See below for Zack's EP release, but first I want to share a bit about the credits... I met Zack (Zack Bolles Band), Ken Carter (Cold Car) and Eric (Just Another Guru), all separately many (10-12?) years ago at the old Mick Morgan's open mic in Newton, MA. They didn't know each other then, but look at the way our fantastic music community unfolds. All connecting to help ZB create an album, which also includes the infamously hard working, Abe Dewing. It's a wonderful thing.

*** There is a new open mic happening in Wellesley at Lockheart Restaurant. Um, it's a big deal. Lockheart is currently the only place in this historically 'dry' town that is licensed to host live entertainment! It is a new program, and the local music community is excited for its future. Check it out!

Acoustic Style Open Mic every 1st & 3rd Wednesday

• 7pm - 10pm
• hosted by : Steve Robb
• details: sign up at door, 2 song sets.
• Lockheart Restaurant, 102 Central St., Wellesley, MA

MUSIC BIZ

*** N.E.R.F.A. 2024

This is for those of us who work on building our career and footprint as singer/songwriters. The new 2024 location for the North East Regional Folk Alliance conference has been announced. It will be held in Portland, ME, Nov. 21-24. Nice and close to Boston!. Links to register for the NERFA conference and book your hotel room will be live by January 16th. Here is a link for programming suggestions and to stay in the know: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Y81zSVoC3he4eWV4OPKg3-I_1Csfvh3jnily9Iq4h4c/viewform?edit_requested=true

*** Spotify: While it is not the best streaming app for paying out to musicians, it does seem to be the most popular and most geared towards allowing musicians to promote themselves. That being said, I recall at a NERFA convention I went to in 2022, a panelist stressing the importance of getting 'likes' in Spotify for the algorithm. So, if you're ever listening to someone local and unsigned, please remember to give them a like. It goes a long way.

NEW RELEASES

*** Zack Bolles Band - "Boatload of Whiskey"

A 5 song EP featuring original songs by Zack Bolles. Credits include Abe Dewing - fiddle. Ed Cardenas - percussion.  Zack Bolles - guitar, vocals. Eric Arnold - Bass. Recorded in one day at Ken and Jocelyn Carter's dance studio. Self mixed by Zack using his car speakers. what? yep!

Anyone recognize where the cover art was taken? Hint: a Wednesday night open mic.

This link should take you to your preferred streaming service:

More info at:

www.zackbolles.com

*** TIMKO & Co. - "Live 2020"

Since we've been mentioning Zack, here's refresher... Zack held a house concert in Feb. of 2020, featuring 2 artists: Timko, and Lady Malory. It was a warm evening, and I was able to record my performance and release it during Covid. The concert was held just a few weeks before the shut down! The album also features our friend, Leah Lodato, on vocals for the song, "Coup d' etat".

This link should take you to your preferred streaming service:

*** Dante - "The American Gene"

Credits: Dante Conti: guitar, lead vocal, 6 and 12 string guitars, sitar, percussion. Jim Detore: lead guitar, pedal steel guitar. Pete Abajoli: bass and backing vocal. Mark Thill: drums, Justin Klosek: keyboards. Heather Grunwald: harmonica. Recorded at Home in Boston by Dante Conti. Mixed and mastered at Earthling Studios by Mike Kamoo, El Cajon, CA

This link should take you to your preferred streaming service:

UPCOMING SHOWS

>>> If you have an upcoming show beyond this month, and want it listed in the next email blast, click this link to fill out the form.

For mobile, turn your phone sideways for best viewing.

(I welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!)

ACOUSTIC OPEN MICS

***Hosted by TIMKO (unless otherwise noted)

Mondays

• Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

Wednesdays

• Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

Thursdays

• KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

***For further details and more area open mics, visit: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

CHECK THIS OUT!

***This US company makes really cool guitar straps out of old seat belts!

Couch Guitar Straps

ABOUT

***This newsletter is intended to connect our evolving Boston area open mic community, including 6 degrees of separation. Compiled by Tim Kochanski, aka, TIMKO. www.timkomusic.com

HOLIDAY PARTY OPEN MICS

Bring your cheer, Santa hats, Holiday songs, etc etc. These nights are always warm!

• Mon. Dec 18 at Porter Belly's, Brighton
• Wed. Dec 20 at Ward 4, Newton
• Thurs. Dec 21 at Knights of Columbus, Melrose

(all hosted by yours truly)

Also, No open mic on Christmas but yes open mic on New Year's day at Porter Belly's.

Happy Holidays to y'all.

~Timmy K.

COMMUNITY

***Mark Gawlak, the Open Mic bartender extraordinaire at Porters, has opened, with his partners a brewery called Courthouse Brew Co.! Currently on tap at Porters you can find their beer, "Strict Scrutiny", a Red Ale - 5.2% ABV. Smooth and crushable. Roasted malt with notes of brioche and toffee.

COTTON MOUTH BOOT MILL FLAVOR

***Praise be to those who bore Witness to Cotton Mouth of Lowell on the day of Eleven-Eleven. Hark, for they have heard the glorious song, relished in the strings there plucked upon, and bathed in the waves of thine crashing percussion. May they go forth and spread the Boot Mill Flavor to the ends of the Earth. In other words, it was great to see so many of you at my high school/college band's 30 year reunion. I'm so glad you could be a part of it! We celebrated the re-release of 2 of our albums on the streaming services. Search it up and enjoy.

PRODUCT SUGGESTIONS

***"These are a few of my fav-o-rite strings!" . Folks, eons ago, I deep dived into finding acoustic guitar strings that I could rely on. Upon much research I came across Martin's SP Phosphor Bronze, now rebranded as their "Authentic Acoustic" line. Because of all the bar chords I like to play, I use the custom-light 11-52. They're perfect for my 1976 Guild D-25. Since committing to these strings, I have at times had to restring with what was locally available... reputable strings of other brands, but none of them have held up to my Martin SP's. Now, it is possible there has been a string introduced post my research that could be better, but I'm so happy with these, I could care less. I love them and they have proven their worth for over 15 years. 

Here are some links to see for yourself.

• Direct from Martin 
• From Guitar Center

NEW RELEASES

***Luxury Deathtrap - They just released a 5 song EP called "Strung Together". They reinterpreted some of their material with a cello player and a string quartet. It was produced by New Alliance in Somerville. Featuring: Eric Hochwald - cello, Andy Hansen-Dvoracek - electric guitar, Nick McGowan - vocals & acoustic guitar, Rich Otero - drums & percussion, Kat - violin and viola.

Check it out here.

UPCOMING SHOWS

 If you have a show in January or beyond, and want it listed in the next email blast, click this link to fill out the form.

I welcome any feedback on if this process was easy and if you felt it added value to your gig promotions. Thanks in advance!

ACOUSTIC OPEN MICS

Hosted by TIMKO (unless otherwise noted)

***MONDAYS, Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

• https://porterbellyspub.com/
• Sign-up starts: 8:00pm, Open Mic starts: 8:30pm, Ends at 12:00am
• Music Only!
• Details: 2 song sets. Gear: 2 mics, 3 guitar cables, keyboard upon request. Percussion welcome. 

***WEDNESDAYS, Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

• https://www.ward-4.com/
• Sign up starts at 7pm, Open Mic starts: 7:30pm, Ends at 10pm
• Music Only!
• Details: 2 song sets. Gear: 2 mics, 3 guitar cables, keyboard upon request. Percussion welcome. 

***THURSDAYS, Knights of Columbus, 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Second Floor

• Sign up starts at 7pm, Open Mic starts: 7:30pm, Ends at 10:30pm
• Music Only!
• Details: 3 song sets. Gear: 2 mics, 3 guitar cables, keyboard upon request. Percussion welcome.
• Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

WHO'S MISSING?

***If you know of someone from our open mics who'd appreciate getting these community-building emails, please suggest to them to sign up on our website. 

PICTURES FROM PORT BELLY'S, ALA UNICORN ROCK

***Unicorn Joe has been snapping awesome, creative pics of performers at Porter's Monday open mic and posting them to Instagram. Thanks to Unicorn Joe for compiling all this for us!

count the typos:______