This Sunday, May 20, the LI Blues Society is presenting a fundraiser and member showcase at Katies of Smithtown. 2 pm.
   Being a fan of blues I have been appreciative of the LI Blues Society for the efforts they have made to promote blues on Long Island and because I have liked the people involved. It's a labor of love for the board members.  Blues is not pop music and garnering attention and support from local media is not easy. 
   The current board of LIBS is led by president Tommy Keys (accomplished blues keyboard player and recording artist) and they are making a renewed effort to broaden their member base with events like this. By recognizing that many forms of music are rooted in blues they wish to broaden their member base by including any members who choose to be a part in numerous genre's. 
To quote Tommy;
    

   There are signs of summer in the local music world. I am seeing gigs at venues in Freeport and Patchogue that are dormant for the winter like JC Cove and Dublin Deck. Soon the beach huts will be hopping and low and behold Riverhead Blues Festival and Great South Bay Festival will be upon us. It's nice to see especially since we had no blues festival last summer. It was a shame how the value of the arts became secondary to the monetary considerations but there was enough interest to make it happen again. Thank god for that!
   For people like me who can't travel to other states often, if at all for festivals it is nice to have something here to look forward to. Festivals and local blues shows are my getaways and my mini vacations. We all need something to connect to and this is mine.  
   April was my birthday month. For my night out with friends we went to No Limits in Hicksville for Cloud William. I have talked about Cloud numerous times here. He plays a wide variety of music including classic and British rock but his guitar style is unique and his blues are real. He plays with only a rhythm section of bass and drums but his playing and song selection keep it interesting. It's not the same three sets as the time before and there are always a few surprises.
   No Limits in Hicksville is not a fancy place but it's a good location on Rte 107 just south of Old Country Rd. There's ample space and a friendly staff. It works for blues or just a casual hang for a night of music.
   I made a few other stops that weekend (4/28) including a visit with SmokingGun Band at Callahans in E Meadow. Bill Marino is another excellent blues guitar guy. The other Guns include Rich Thiel, Andy Witt (drums) and Jeannie B on vocals. They put on a good variety of blues and rock with sharp vocals and tight performances as a group.
   I have been trying to get to different spots on my Wednesday nights and I have been catching some good shows.
   KJ Farrells in Bellmore has Kenny Forgione and a cast of dynamite players. He offers a "scramble" which features guest performers by invitation each week. I caught Chrissie O'Dell for a few numbers and in an entirely different setting for Chrissie. She hit it out of the park. One of the truest blues vocalists I have ever heard Chrissie stood out in that setting, an original blues vocalist in a sea of polished rock players. That was nice little treat.
   This past Wednesday (5/9) I stopped in at Ed the Hat and Hitman 's (Russell Alexander) jam at the High Note in Amityville. It was only their second or third night there but there was a pretty good list of vocalists and players. I was treated to a couple of newbie "belters" on vocals and an excellent veteran sax player... not to mention some blues guitar ala The Hitman.
   The High Note is a great room! It's on Broadway in Amityville between Montauk Hwy and Sunrise. There is a big room for music with lots of tables (and food), an elevated stage and a nice ambience. I'd like to see more stuff there. I hope they find a winning formula and I hope that includes a lot of blues!
   I am beginning to acquire a good size list of musician and venue links on my other pages. I would like to ask again that those parties I have listed do me a favor and link me on their sites. Links are the best way to generate traffic and the more traffic I build the more help I will be to those people.       
   Someday soon I will be realizing some life and career changes as my daughter heads off to college. It has been a "wonderous story" raising my wonderful daughter and all the choices (well most) have been for all reasons other than money and that has paid off for her. Now I will be able to focus more on other things and unless things change more than I anticipate, I can put some money and more time into this website. In the meantime I have been growing by word of mouth and by getting my ass out as often as possible. Now and in the future it helps tremendously to network with links. Let's share, shall we?
   Thanks for being here you all.
bill
     

   In the past few weeks I have had a few occasions to get out for live music. It doesn't always go as planned but some of the best nights are the ones when things change and I get an unexpected show.
   A week or so ago I stopped in at Bobbique's in Patchogue for Amber Ferrari and Co. Ms. Ferrari heads Joplins Pearl but this was not that particular ensemble. Ms. Ferrari was doing en eclectic rock set and with a full house and she put on quite a show! Her strong vocals and her flamboyant style spearhead a full rock band and dynamic sound. She's a good show and as a matter of fact her signature band Joplin's Pearl is being featured this weekend (Sat 4/28) at Vail Leavitt Music Hall in Riverhead. Joplins Pearl has a Janis Joplin theme but this weekend's show salutes women of rock which should make for an interesting mix.
   After leaving Bobbique's we headed to the new club, 89 North; only a block or two from the busy spot on Main St. where Brickhouse Brewery and Bobbique's stare across the street at each other.
   That 70's Band was finishing up at 89 North and the big crowd was emptying out revealing a big room with ample dance floor, plenty of tables and a big stage. Excellent room! Of course That 70's Band left the place buzzing. People were still dancing as the band was wrapping up and consorting with their adoring fans. At every level, it seems, musicianship has its perks!
   Just to mention another new venue, my old pal, Orlan and I went up to Syosset to visit his uncle, Prentiss McNeill who was performing at 516 Americana. The place is on BerryHill Rd right where it begins near Jackson Ave. Good location and a good size room. We tried the wings and they were good too!. I was told that 516 Americana will be hosting a full schedule of live music every weekend. Check them out and let's show some love and support for the venues, new and old...assuming they do the righgt things by the bands of course!
   This past weekend (4/21) I headed to Long Beach for Gail Storm and Steve Adelson at Bahia Social Club. It's a sort of Cuban Cafe looking room with modest little cafe tables, white walls and ceiling fans and a tasty menu with dinner and bar items. Unfortunately we got there late and the show was nearly over so we stopped at The Hub Billiards room in Island Park on the way home. We found 44 Blues Band playing with Brother Dave and Dave Patrick filling in on bass. We pulled up some comfortable chairs and enjoyed a good long set of some fine blues with the very pesonable Mr. Patrick and the gritty guitar of Brother Dave.
   My Wednesdays have consisted of visits to Joe Vicino's excellent jam at Sunset Grill, The Jazz/Art fusion event at 841 East (this week features Chris (Crispy Chicken) Laybourne and Co, Andy Ahr's jazz jam at Horace and Sylvia's in Babylon not to forget a stop at Brendan O'Bryans jam at Grizzlys in Bay Shore.
\   There was also at stop or two at The Homestead in Oyster Bay for Joe Vicino Band with Andy Aledort (amazing show) and Frank Bellucci's Jazz ensemble on a Wednesday night. I also sneaked out once or twice on a Sunday for Melody Rose's jazz jam at Declan Quinns in Bay Shore. Ms. Rose hosts a great cast of players every week including Robert Lepley (keys), Frank Bellucci (drums), Imraan Kahn (sax) and many more.
   It sounds like a lot but it's been a few weeks since my last post.
   I wanted to get to so many more shows but I do what I can.
   Check out the calendar for some great live stuff this week. It's restaurant week. You can eat at lots of great places for a fixed price of something like $25 and catch live music at the same time.
   Thanks for stopping by and let me mention again that venues (and bands) can purchase a spot on the home page here for a song... so to speak. Get in touch is you're thinking about it. (bill@billfoolery.com.
bill
  

  

   I keep this calendar and this little log to keep a bead on live music because occasionally I hear some beautiful things. I am a nightlifer. I always have been. I have been disappointed by religion and family life has been a minefield. So I look for signs of life (and I find it) in music.
   In the past few weeks I've had some good moments. I've been expanding my genre's in order to hear more people and sounds and I have been enjoying all of it.
   I started a recent Saturday night with a stop at The View (Riverview Rest) in Oakdale to hear a tune or two of Diane McArdle and Rattlesnake Dawn. I only caught two songs. It was the acoustic trio with Diane M, Adam Tese (sax) and Doug Johnson (guitar). It was St. Patty's day and the slightly inebriated crowd was digging on Diane and Co and I was reminded how much I like that voice and that sax and the understated but satisfying guitar work. Diane McArdle's vocals have a perfect ring and tone and she was delivering something endearing. The country ensemble connects really well with the audience and I always feel connected with them. I have been looking for that lately.
   After that I stopped in on Andy Aledort and the Groove Kings (The Viking in Islip). Aledort (sik guitar) and Mike Dimeo on keys are as dynamic as it gets and if one wants authentic rock and blues they are the dealers par excella'nce. Aledort is furious and perfect and satisfying and Dimeo's keys and vocals add every desired complement. It was a good formula for a Saturday night.
   For my Wednesday night adventure I stopped in at the jazz/art fusion thing at 841 East in Huntington with Fusion Collective. The music with Rich Rivkin, Sly Geralds, Mike Ernst and Co. was a smooth ride as always. The scene is a happy thing with a beautiful room, an awesome menu that includes tasty dunplings and flatbread pizzas and some amazing painters doing their impressions of a room full of inspirations. That's a great night of every kind of entertainment.
   I also had the pleasure of hearing the Blue Roots at Bobbique's in Patchogue last weekend. Carlos DeJesus, Paul Bassi, Scott Miccichi, Tru Doty and Co. play a good mix of blues and soulful rock. DeJesus on guitar and vocals is a smooth operator. Miccichi on harp was on fire and Mr. Doty is another one of those solid guys who doesn't try to steal the show but almost does. Like Eric (the owner) said that night; "It was a party" and I was glad to be there for it.   
   I have to mention a few of the jams that are so good they need attention. Declan Quinns in Bay Shore on Sunday night is a jazz jam with a rotating cast hosted by Melody Rose. The cast is always good. I recently heard Frank Bellucci on drums who has more fun that a guy should have at a jam and a sax player named Imron who was simply awesome! Melody Rose (vocals) is a hostess with the mostest including a joyful voice. And speaking of voices Giovanni Mari Von Essen has been a frequent contributor with a dynamic act of her own.
   If Thursdays are your thing there are almost too many good ones to mention but for now let me turn you on to Wickers in Hicksville with Perrita Kitson (blues vocals) and Al Cardillo (bass) and again, Frank Bellucci (drums). Thats a jazz/blues hybrid event and it's as an amazing show that happens every week.
   Another Thursday event you might like is at Callahans in E Meadow with Brother Dave and a guest artist every week. Mr. Dave is a talented blues mofo on guitar and his guests have included Donnie Celenza and Dave Patrick. I can't wait to see who's next!
   I can't write any more tonight so I'll say good night. Thanks for being here and please get out and support all this great stuff!
bill

      To whomever is booking acts for the Riverhead Blues Festival in it's return after a year of heartless disregard I'd like to suggest a good number of local acts. I wonder if you would open up a suggestion page somewhere and allow either open suggestions or votes on a good number of local acts. If not I may need to send something somewhere in an effort to be heard representing the local blues community. I hope you other blues patrons and artists do the same.
   Speaking of good local acts I have done some wandering in the past few weeks and I have taken in an eclectic array of musicianship from rock to jazz to blues.
   Paul Gilmore and Soulstice was at O'Reilly's in Oakdale a Friday or two ago and it was my first time with them.
   It was an acoustic show ,more or less, with Paul G on bass and a couple of talented guys on guitar, mandolin and drums. The set I caught was classic rock (mostly non-pop) with a folk/blues feel and some real good vocals and instrumentals. O'Reilly's is a big place and there was a good size crowd. It felt like CSN episode in a friendly time and place.  
   I've had a few occasions to check out Bobby Rondinelli and friends lately. Once on a Tuesday night at Katies in Smithtown with George Cintron and a cameo by brother Teddy Rondinelli.  And recently caught Rondinelli and Co at Roadhouse of LI in Bohemia. That cast included Jim Kolman, Tru Doty and Tim Smith for the core band and a great group of sit-ins including Amber Ferrari who belted some Janis Joplin with some style and Vince Frangiapanni (did I spell that right?) on guitar. Jay Sharkey also sat in on drums and soulful vocals. Rondinelli amped up everything with his potent percussion and Kolman serenaded with a few blues tunes. Speaking of seranading Tim Smith crooned a few tunes and it was a fun night.
   My last few Wednesday nights have been interesting with a stop at the Homestead in Oyster Bay for Frank Belucci's jazz thing. The "Fourtet" was straight jazz with Mr B on drums, Wayne Schuster on sax, Bob Gallo on guitar and Jim Cammack on bass. When it's done that well it's easy listening for me. The collaborations are smooth and the solo's are those little excursions that take it off the page and make for great listening. 
   I also paid another visit to Joe Vicino's Wednesday night jam at Sunset Grill. The cast of guitar players is always good. Last week (3/7) included Joe V of course, John Judd, Steve Farella and Frankie from Johnnie & The Triumphs with Rob Jack on bass most of the night. There were some great blues moments, some of the best I've heard in a while. I search far and wide for that stuff and it's nice when I find it.
   I found more of that and with a few twists last weekend with a show by Cloud William at Corner Pub in Valley Stream. Cloud is a veteran and well traveled blues/rock guy with heavy Brittish rock influence. His vast influences and experience made for a diverse set list including Muddy Waters, The Animals, Beatles, The Ventures, The Kinks and many more. Cloud is a fluid and creative player. His vocals are strong and with a solid rhythm section he puts on a great show! The Corner Pub is a smallish place but it was run very well that night, The owner kept us fed with baskets of munchies replenished at the tables and free wings were served that night. It was a perfect little blues room with a nice group of people at the helm.
   On hand that night was Delilah from The Last Internationale... another cutting edge blues artist. There are so many to see and hear. I hope these and some of the other local artists get some consideration for the festival(s) this summer. If not I at least hope people get out more for these and all the other great artists here on Long Island.
   Thanks for being here!
bill
    

   After a long work week it's Friday night and I'm home sick. At least it gives me some time to talk about some live music.  Luckily I had a a fairly busy week or two catching shows and good company.
   There was some fun stuff on the calendar for Fat Tuesday so I headed to Bobbique's in Patchogue for a celebration with Jack Licitra's, Jacks, Waterfall with some guys from the Blue Roots sittin in. The place was packed with folks in "Nawlin's" type wardrobe and costume and the music was brassy, bluesy and foot tappin. Jack Licitra led an appropriately motley crew of instruments with a keyboard and the stage looked overwhelmed with a huge collection of horns, guitars, drums, keys and singers. The whole scene kinda worked and made a fun night of music.
   Last weekend I enjoyed some blues by JD Blues Band with John Judd and friends at the newly expanded Big Daddy's in Massapequa. They added a wing on the north end of the room (to the left as you walk in). The band was situated in that new space and it afforded more space for viewing  and more room to roam around.
   John Judd delivers some of my favorite guitar playing on Long Island. He's seems to create something new with every performance however common the cover.The cast with Judd was Durand Daniels on guitar, Johnny Pizza on bass and Ralph Santiago on drums. Excellent cast with some good vocals by Daniels and Johnny P.
   Speaking of bluesy rock I stopped in on Blue Matter on Saturday night for some home cookin. The BM boys with Ray Wade, Arty Panico, Andy Witt and Charlie Labs bring a good time wherever they go. In this case it was Giacomo Jacks. It's a comfortable setting with good local guys in a local joint with familiar faces and a good time had by all.
   There are all kinds of jams popping up these days with Brother Dave bringing a rotating cast of guests to Callahans in E Meadow on Thursdays, Bobby Sexton and Papa G doing a jazzy thing at Tap Room in Patch. on Monday nights, Melody Rose bringing her jazz night back to Declan Quinns on Sundays and lots more. Check out the calendar for all that.
   I have been running in to folks who aren't aware that they can contact me and send me gig info by e-mail at bill@billfoolery.com. I also get the occasional phone call and thats fine but feel free to send me stuff for the calendar. I put it all on there as long as it's a paying gig, it's for an over 30 audience and it's in Nassau or Suffolk. Keep it coming.
   Thanks for stopping by.
bill

   In the past week or two I made an effort to get to some different places and consequently I met quite a few people and bands I have not seen or heard in a while. I'm glad I made the effort(s).
   Last weekend (2/11 - 2/12) I got out to Long Beach for a few shows. I missed a good amount of most of them but I had fun seeing and hearing it all.
   I caught a set of King Cobras at Nicks Tuscan Grill. That's a nice stretch of Long Beach and Nicks is a nice room.  The King Cobras always entertain me with their distinct "Rollin and Ramblin" jump blues sound. The three piece is an upbeat act and always leave me feeling me good.
   Part of the plan was to also catch some of the Folk 2 Funk festival which was going on so we walked over to Lola's Kitchen for Breakaway. In fact we caught one or two numbers but enough to be reminded of the chops these guys have. I caught Lou Carollo in the heat of the moment on one of the Breakaway originals. They're a rock n roll band with blues influence and mostly originals. The numbers are all good and the guys are tight. I wish I caught more but it was a late start and a long road.
   Saturday I headed east at a late hour and caught a number or two at Big Daddy's Sizzlin Jam which is held a few times a month at Kapplers Inn in Patchogue. Being a late owl I was pretty sure I'd miss a lot of what was happening in Patchogue but Kapplers is a fun room and Karl Reamer's (Big Daddy) crowd is always a fun bunch... and with a roster of numerous acts I figured it would still be going on.
   I had tried to catch some of Sweet Suzi at Bobbique's but I got there in time for a good-bye hug from Suzi and that was some consolation.
   The time will come soon when my teenager will be heading to college and my time for musc will expand. In the meantime I get out for music when I can and hope for the best. It's a busy time in a busy life. I'm grateful for the music and even more for the time with my child which is becoming more bittersweet as college age approaches. I may need my blues even more come September.
   For my weekly Wednesday escapade I headed up to Huntington for Rich Rivkin's Live Art Fusion at 841 East Lounge in Jericho Tpke.
   One of Rich's bands, Fusion Collective with Mike Ernst and Sly Geralds plays the Live Art show every other week with other bands filling in the other two weeks. It's an interesting dynamic with 10 or so artists standing at their easels, painting at various locations around the room as the jazz fusion band lays out some funky jazz. The room was busy with patrons and artists and there is entertainment all around. It's a collection of talented painters and the show of art at the end of the night is impressive.
   That was a fairly early finish so I stopped at a local spot, Grizzly's in Bay Shore for a nightcap where they have a Wednesday night jam also. That was over but host Brendan O'Bryan stuck around and played a few tunes on his hybrid dobro. I used to post that jam every week but after a while I lost track of it when I stopped getting information about it.
   Don't forget Jazz on the Vine is taking place at the vineyards and that is for a few weekends more. Check the link for the schedule and take a ride one of these weekends.
   Thanks for stopping bye and thanks again for the information you are sending. It helps a lot.
bill

   It's not so often I post these days. I have a slate full of work and child and home and it overflows every day. For that I am grateful... and overcome at times.
   Thankfully I have some really nice friends and I got to enjoy some music with them.
   On a recent Thursday night I took in Kane Daily at Grillfire Restaurant in Merrick. It was my first time at that Grillfire. It's a nice and cozy space for music. The stage, as it were, was set up in a table booth at the head of the bar. The dining room is set apart and it's an inviting room also. There was a nice crowd when I arrived; an attractive selection of 40 and over's enjoying Mr. Daily and their private conversations. I jumped into a table booth as a couple was leaving. My friend arrived soon after. 
   Kane Daily was a solo act that night. He played an assortment of guitars. His repetoire included originals, classic rock and blues. His playing was sharp and lively. Kane was a nice host entertaining some requests and engaging his audience with some music discussion and conversation. and excellent music!
   I usually do Wednesdays but it is nice to see what goes on the other nights.
   This past weekend, 1/27-1/28 I went along with the gang and headed to Callahans in East Meadow for SmokinGun. It's not often this group of friends get to hang together and thanks to SGB it was a good time had by all. The cast of Bill Marino, Rich Thiel, Ralph Santiago and Jeannie B had it goin on. They were joined by Ms. Chrissie O'Dell for some riveting numbers and Brother Dave who joined Bill Marino for some smokin guitar duets. The place was packed and everyone was high on rock and blues and some good vibes. I needed a night like that.
   There is no better way for adults to spend a night than good music with friends who appreciate it. There's a huge assortment of quality live music around here. I wish I could get to all of it but every time out is fun lately. Let's keep it goin. Thankyou to those who send me info and appreciate the calendar as much as I do.
   This began because I wanted a source for music on any given night (for myself and friends) and at first it was not easy to find show information, Now, with my pages of resources, social media, people sending me stuff and friends who steer me to acts it has become quite do-able.
   There's so much more I would do if I had more time but it serves my original purpose and traffic continues to grow. Any music interests are welcome to put ads on this page. I have a few but there's room for plenty more and the money will help me promote the site.
   Let me know. Enjoy the coming week. There's some amazing music.
   Thanks for stopping by.
bill
  

   Gradually I am getting my old self back. Winters are tough around here and every year I get something in the way of a cold or flu. This year it was a two month cough that got me down. I didn't feel like doing anything, going anywhere, seeing anyone...   The cloud is lifting and I hope to get out for some blues and jazz and rock and other forms of live music.
   Lately I have been to a few private party's with some fine musicians and friends. It was an excellent evening recently with Mr. Billy Quinn and Tommy T-Bone and friends who all entertained a nice group of folks. It just so happens T-Bone and Mr. Bill are headed to Memphis very soon for the IBC as Long Island's (Long Island Blues Society) duo entry. The pair make some clever and entertaining music with Bill Quinn and keys and T-Bone on guitar and vocals..
   The band entry this year is Gary Sellers Band. Gary Sellers was a Sam Taylor student and he learned well. His blues guitar is distinctive and seamless instrumental storytelling along with solid vocals and some lively original music. Get out and see them and support their efforts.
   I also had a rare Thursday opportunity so I ran out to Ed the Hat's jam at Pete's Place in Bohemia. Ed is joined by Jim Moran on occasion and JD Leonard. With an amazing list of guests including Shinya Myamoto, Bobby Rondinelli, Don Moffat and many more it was a great night of music and comedy. Moran and Ed the Hat are a hysterical team of hosts. It's a good vibe and with that talent participants can perform anything they ask for.
   As for weekend entertainment this coming week has something for everyone. Kerry Kearney's Gathering of the Slides is in it's 10th year. The show is at the historic Vail Lavitt Music Hall and with Bennett Harris and Chris English it is sure to be an amazing show of blues (slide) guitar.
   There's a rockabilly extravaganza, That 70's Band 7th Anniversary party/show, and appearances by some of Long Islands best blues acts, King Cobras, Andy Aledort.  For jazz lovers Ian Petillo has shows at least two nights a week with some of the best musicians on Long Island as does Al Cardillo.
   I'm looking forward to catching some of that. 
   I have heard from a few people recently that my playlist is getting stale. I have to apologize! My webhosting service changed the whole system recently and I can no longer upload my own songs to the playlist library. I am now restricted to those on the playlist' website. I am working on changing the service that provides me the playlist so please be patient.
   I would also like to invite bands in the "over 30, Nassau/Suffolk" categories to send me band and artist bios. I will post them either here in posts or list them on another page. I just don't have the time to gather them myself. Maybe someday.
   Thanks for the input and thanks for checking out my site.
bill

   Even though I haven't quite kicked this chest cold I have been able to get out a few times in the past week.
   I stopped in at Joe Vicino's jam last week (12/28) and caught Andy Aledort and Mike Dimeo along with the excellent cast of regular players. The Wed. night jam at Sunset Grill is a good bet these days if you like your rock peppered with blues or vice versa.
   The New Years eve weekend had lots of good shows. I only felt up to going out on Friday night so I caught an appearance by the Blue Roots at Velvet Lounge in Setauket.
   The Blue Roots consist of Paul Bassi (bass), Scott Miccichi (harp), the one and only Mark Mancini (keys), Chris Candida (drums) and last but not least the smooth and talented Carlos DeJesus on guitar and vocals. The set list includes some covers of both popular and obscure tunes including Allman Bros, Hank Williams as well as originals. The performances are tight and it's a show that delivers a good mix of blues and tasteful blues inspired rock. 
   The Velvet Lounge is a great room with friendly help and good food served all night. It was a nice night. Check out both the band and the venue when you get a chance.
   This past Wed. night I decided to try (again) a jazz jam in nearby Babylon at Horace & Sylvia's Rest. I stopped by a few times but often the place is packed and seats are not to be found. I caught it on a sane night and got a place to sit and take in an excellent cast of young jazz guys; Andy Ahr on guitar, Chris Norris on sax, Vincent Loccasiano on keys, Chris Covais on vibes and Higo Lopez on drume. The ensemble was also joined by Giovanni (Mari) Von Essen for a few numbers and it was a nice night in a nice room. Check that out too.
   Even being a cold winter month the calendar is full of good stuff. Keep supporting live music and get to a show or two this week. It's a great way to pass the winter months and rub elbows with some good people.
   Thanks for checking in and keep on keeping me posted.
bill
  

   It's hard to believe how fast the holiday season approached not to mention how fast the year went. By recent personal standards it was a fairly tame year. That's a good thing! I have had too much on my plate at times in recent years and too much drama as many of us have. It's nice to have some boring times for a change. That has meant less time for music however. I have had a chest cold for weeks and weeks. I have spent so much time at home I am getting used to it. I have not felt like doing the traveling and I have fallen out of touch to a degree.
   One of my New Years resolutions is to achieve better health. With a growing cabinetry and furniture business I am not sure if I can manage growth of Billfoolery.com. I expect to maintain the calendar for a while because I enjoy having it for my own purposes and I realize there is a shortage of coverage of the local music scene. I know someone with more expertise could do more with a blog like this so if anyone has any ideas I am all ear.
   For the final weekend of the year there are some good shows to celebrate the end of what has been a tough year for many and the hope for a new year with better opportunities.
   Friday night the Blue Roots with Carlos DeJesus and Paul Bassi, Mark Mancini, Chris Candida and and Scott Miccichi play the Velvet Lounge in Setauket among many other good shows.
   Saturday night Lex Grey and the Urban Pioneers will be bringing in the New Year at Bobbique's in Patchogue. Ms. Grey puts on a ballsy show with a talented cast. There's a full slate on both nights so check out the calendar and celebrate with live music. There's nothing better than the vibe of good live music in room full of people.
   Happy New Year! We deserve it.
bill

   Seasons Greetings live music fans! I hope you are enjoying the holiday atmosphere. I seem to have a cough from hell and I am trying to ignore it and go on as usual. Because of this pain-in-the-ass condition my nightlife episodes have been severely limited. I got out on Saturday at about 11 after waking from a cough syrup induced snooze and felt like taking in some music.
   I headed to Giacomo Jacks for Sweet Suzi & Sugafixx.  Suzi's new gang (formerly The Curbdogs John Puglisi and John Pagano and drummer Ronnie Sciascia) bring more of a rock sound than Suzi's former collaborations but these days Suzi is as soulful and "bluesy" sounding as ever. Sugafixx is a high-energy and talented rock bunch and Suzi's bountiful experience brings it all to some real highs. It was bluesy rock with soul and amazing vocals of course.  I didn't last long but I got a Fixx and it was nice to get out. 
   The holiday schedule is sparse but Friday has a good roster of shows. Tough to choose especially when I"m so hungry for music.
   I hope you all enjoy your holidays. I will try to get out more and keep the conversation going.
   Thanks for checking in.
bill
   
  

  Still sick and it's making me crazy! I will be getting out soon hopefully but I still look at the calendar and the goings-on and I see so many good shows out there.
   This weekend (9th to 11th) I'd like to be able to get to one of my old favotites, Smoking Gun Band with the dynamic guitar playing of Bill Marino and Jeannie B's gritty vocals, or perhaps JD Leonard Band with Karen Kateridge and Jim Moran, another fierce guitar guy... just to mention a few of Friday nights shows.
    Saturday night features Buttered Soul with Craig Hopping's powerful vocals with Bobby Rondinelli on drums and guest Jim Moran on guitar. Talk about a talented cast! The Welldiggers with Rich Lanahan playing well paced country and rock mix are having a cd release party. Thats a good one to catch if you haven't already.
   Sunday the LI Blues Society is having their annual Christmas party at Brickhouse Brewery ($5 for non members) with Danny Kean & Friends (Don Celenza and Phil Bloos) from 4 to 8. I'm hoping I'm able to get to that one, damn, I hope I get to something this weekend!
   Also check out some of the great Benefit events which always have great music and a good time.
   Sorry I haven't had more to share lately but I have been under the weather and plum tired as soon as I hit the chair after dinner.
   I hope ya'll have a fun weekend and I really hope to see you out there soon.
   Happy Holidays!
bill

   I have not posted in over a week because I have not been out. Flu season is upon us and I got it good like I get it every year it seems. Maybe I will try a flu shot next season. It only takes 50 some-odd years to learn a lesson. Geesh.
   In lieu of going out for music and company I have been tortured by TV and no good books to read right now.
   The Republican nomination process has been entertaining and while I consider myself a true moderate these days (I seek a balance or divided government as neither party shows they deserve to own the process). The field of nominees seems to be getting weeded out by a natural process as the debates showed depth on very few candidates and balance and wisdom in even fewer.  I am deciding if I like Gingrich. He seems to have the experience and ability required but I have yet to decide of he has correct answers. Ron Paul has answers but if he ever gets taken out of his game plan I am not sure he has any alternative ideas other than rash isolationism and austerity. He is certainly no phony however and he adds a lot to the spectrum. Romney seems like a good candidate but I'm not sure he'd be much of a president.
   As for the Dems, I wish there could be other options. Not because I don't like the man, O'Bama, but he is not playing well with others and his moves so far have not exactly instilled confidence in many people other than the blind followers which are frustrating in both party's.
   We seriously need less party fanfare and more discussion of some of the troubling issues. What would happen if someone showed up with an unfamiliar party name and had good ideas for five main issues, a sane health care plan, limited pro-choice, flat tax, tort reform, moderate defense cuts and how about easing the political correctness required for candidates ? What ever happened to learning from mistakes? Is anyone perfect and do we trust anyone who appears to be?
   The middle ground doesn't seem that hard to find. Does it?
   These are just some observations from someone who needs to get out for some music and watch less tv because I am not hearing much in the way of balance or sanity on any of the TV channels, political or otherwise.
   I hope to get out this weekend. There are some great shows, Lex Grey is in town. There are some benefits for Breast Cancer; check out Bartini's on Saturday. And another good looking benefit show for Toys 4 Tots with Joe Vicino and Friends at Sunset Grill on Sunday.
   Thanks for allowing some political discussion. I know it's a hot topic but it can be discussed if we step out of our party's and take it an issue at a time.
   Happy Holiday shopping ya'll and get yourself a flu shot!!
bill

   It's fun when I get to talk about a band like the one I heard last Saturday night. I hear about new people and places from many sources; friends, e-mails, newspapers (Good Times Mag) , magazines (Elmore, Blues Revue), ReverbNation and facebook of course.
   I heard about Last Internationale from Elaine Duvall, someone I love calling a friend. Elaine has been talking about the young blues, alt.rock band for over a year now and I caught them once before. Sometimes first impressions are not accurate.The first time I heard Last Internationale with Delilah and Edgey was at the Pool House in Bellmore and they didn;t have their regular cast and the place was noisy and uncomfortable that night. This time we caught them at a new place (for me); Black Sheep Ale House in Mineola.
   The place was not distracting in any way, except for the strange guy who tried to seat my female friend right next to him ignoring me and the others. That was a little wierd.
   We took a table, sans the aforementioned creep, right in front and I was able to concentrate on the amazing and talented Delila; lead singer and also filling in on bass. On guitar was Edgey and he too has some chops using both rhythm and lead combinations and roles.
   Delila's vocals are as strong as you could want with perfect clarity and pitch and an edginess (no pun intended) that her range handled with ease. She easily reached some rock and roll highs and some low earthy blues. I was stunned to hear such standard blues sounds coming from a hot, young artist but it was all there.
   Guest guitarist Rich Lanahan sat in for a few numbers. The set list included some Johnny Cash and other folksy stuff and Lanahan was a perfect complement. Edgey with a sharp rhythm and Lanahan adding some country-folk lead filled out the ensemble for a a few truly euphonic (and euphoric) moments. Last Internationale left the next day for a eurpoean tour and I have little doubt it is just the beginning for them/her.
   My other stops for the week included a Wednesday night visit to Joe Vicino's jam which as usual had a great cast of guitar and other players including John Judd, Steve Farella, Guy Daniels, Rich Lanahan, Rob Jack (bass and vox) and many more.
   Speaking of John Judd (again) I caught the JD Blues Band (John and Durand Daniels with Ralph Santiago and Johnny Pizza) at Giacomo Jacks. The JD Blues guys put on an excelent blues guitar show with Judd streaming live with stunning displays of blues riffs.
   I had my share of blues last weekend and, no surprise, it was a good week!
   I give thanks this Thursday for that and for all the excellent live music around here and for good friends, an awesome daughter, family and life in general.
   I hope you all have an abundance of thanks to give and an enjoyable holiday!
bill

     It was a nice autumn night last Friday. I had a long day making sawdust and battling the southern state parkway while trying not to think about working Saturday.
   I made a dinner of leftovers and a salad and plunked myself in the big blue chair in anticipation of enjoyable entertainment on the tv for a change. That didn't last long. I channel surfed for an hour or two and after my hand cramped up and I ran out of curses I bolted out of the chair and stormed over to the computer to see if there was something going on that I didn't have to fill the gas tank to get to. I write the calendar on Monday and I edit every day but when it comes time to go out I have little recollection of what is going on out there.
   I had an old friend in Massapequa who hinted about going out last weekend so I decided on King Cobras at the R Bar, a new establishment on Merrick Rd.
   It was late-ish of course but the place had a nice crowd and the King Cobras were full throttle into their boppin blues thing. I was glad I didn't succomb to the big blue chair on a Friday night.
   I grabbed a stool, flagged down a double from the awesome Cara behind the bar and took in the entertainment I was jones'n for.
   Shane and the boys were showing off some of the stuff from their new cd, Corn Liquor Action. These guys are good! Their influences are all the Kings and everyone else with a blues name. It's shuffle and bop with some twang and some good writing. Never a dull moment with Mr. Shane at the helm and Tony and Steve bringing up the rear.
   So after trying my best with a genuine cutie (I was high on blues damnit!)and soaking up the King Cobras I headed east with some newfound ambition and stopped in on Stevie Cochran with Brian Carroll at the Corner Galley.
   That was a whole 'nother scene. It was a real "corner galley". The late nighters were all that was left but Stevie C and BC were obliging with some two-piece blues requests. Theirs was much more a metal and rock take but still some capable hands. It was a good last stop and a little closer to home.
   I finally surrendered at that point and went home for a good Friday night sleep.
   Another toilsome week beckons but there is always more music than work so I am inspired. Who knows where and when I will hear the call to wander Long Island this week Check the schedule and get some inspiration for your own selves.
   Thanks for being here.
bill
   
   
  

   Living in suburbia was a lot easier as a married person... for material and practical reasons. The challenges of managing details like bills, domestic and automotive upkeep, childrens education and health, etc are consuming and keeping up with the latest information and methods is harrowing when the stakes get magnified with all the modern media.
   For emotional reasons there are advantages to being single; not having an opposing agenda to contend with, not having another persons schedule to mind and not having any criticism is sometimes heady when I think back on certain times in the past.
   These are just some general observations but when I factor in the challenges of the economy I realize why lately I (we?) feel like I (we) have spent the day walking through molasses. I climb into bed with an appreciation for solitude and the opportunity to turn off the "machinery" and turn on some music. I would not know what to do without the whiskey voices of blues emanating from my iPod and soothing my wounds.
   This partly explains why music matters to me and live music not only provides the substance but it provides some emotion and people and faces to reflect on and relate to. It is a network of people living and sharing some similar and other experiences.  
   I hope to invite more people, single and attached, to take part and live a richer life among their fellow Long Islanders.
   Speaking of which... I had a few opportunities in the past week to visit some live music.
   Last Wednesday I stopped in at Donnie Celenza and Dave Patrick's jam at the new location, Mickey Mo's in Lynbrook. On the north side of Sunrise Highway the location is easy to find. The room is big and bright with good sightlines and a nice upscale feel.
   The cast also included Randy London on drums and some good guests including Mel "guitar" Williams and Rootman on harp... among others.
   It was a fun show. Don Celenza weilded his magic guitar and the busy jam had a fulltime buzz of blues and other good tunes. 
   Saturday I had a brief experience with a mercurial date and for a short time I enjoyed Kerry Kearney and Co at The Maples out in Manorville. The place is cozy, warm and there was an appreciative crowd for KK, Sly Geralds, Tony Campo and Mario Staiano... a fun bunch!
   Like I said it was a brief moment of weekend bliss but it's about quality not quantity and I got some good stuff last week.
   This week has a good slate of events including Friday night's Hearts Across America. Check out the list of venues taking part and support one of them... and catch a great show!
   Thanks for checking in.  I thank those who help me with information and who seem to appreciate the calendar and those who organize music and events. I have been dabbling a little and trying to place blues acts and it isn't easy! Have a great week.
   Enjoy.
bill

     In an effort to promote blues I have been getting involved in some booking recently. A few people and bands have asked me to help get them gigs and some I have offered to help because I want to generate market for the music I love and for the music scene in gereral.
    I have had mixed results.
    It will not be a full time endeavor and I will do what I can but I continue to take part in the music scene for altruistic purposes mainly. I have a worthy challenge keeping up with life as a single parent and that takes all of my resources.
   I had an experience recently that may be useful to share. In booking a gig at a club in Baldwin. I negotiated terms for payment with the gal who books Friday nights. We agreed (in numerous texts) on a full payment and a lesser payment in the event of them being disappointed. That was the term used. If they were "disappointed" the lesser payment was "x" and we both agreed and booked the gig.
   The show was a blast and there was a little more than a half-full room for about half the show and less for the rest. So after the show I acted as go between and was given $50 less than the agreed lower payment. The band showed up  based on my word that they would get a minimum of "x" amount. They got less. I guess I trusted the wrong person!
   I am putting my word on the line and that involves trust. There are repercussions when you do shit like that.  I guess she/they didn't care. I for one am never going to book there and won't be attending the venue until something changes there. I heard that others have had trouble booking there. Feel free to write or ask and I will be happy to t ell you who the shady party is.
   If anyone has anything useful to say about the matter please feel free. (Bill@billfoolery.com).
I will share responses.
   My musical escapes this week were few.  With a late start I stopped in at a Wednesday night jam; Joe Vicino at Sunset Grill. That was another quality turnout . 
   My weekend consisted of my "disappointing" night in Baldwin (albeit a great show) and that was it. I was otherwise  pre-occupied with life and other intrusions... not all bad.
   The current calendar has good stuff for the weekend but also numerous new mid-week jams. Weeknights are getting crazy. I hope I can figure out a way to get out more. A noteworthy venue recently is 841 Lounge (841 Jericho Tpke., Hunt) hosted by Rich Rivkin on Wednesday night this week. The show invloves live fine art coinciding with jazz fusion (Fusion Collective) and thats a nice room. Nice to see something different going on. 
   Check out the calendar and get your bad selves out for some live music, And thanks for stopping by.
bill

   Unlike the facebook experience your BiLLfOoLeRy.CoM experience will not include political propaganda. I do want to make one point however.
    I go on facebook to gather information for this website and to write to friends. It has become a form of US Mail and telephone service for personal communications. The use of facebook and other social media for the utterance of political views is so annoying I feel pain now when I try to read daily posts and have to sort through that crap. Most who post political opinion do so without any concern for the other sides view and don't tell me the other side doesn't matter. We are basically a two party system. The current set of laws is a result of two political views and those participants hammering out ideas and voting out bad ideas. To try to argue with someone who hates the other side or thinks the other side is evil is pointless. In order to understand something one has to be open-minded and vice-versa. Please don't tell me Democrats are socialists or liberals are anti-American or that Republicans are racists. I know too many in both party's who are neither. To generalize is ignorance and it inhibits understanding. I am a promoter of civil discourse and the adoption of ideas from both sides of the aisle in order to achieve a balanced system that helps the truly needy and frees the truly independent to achieve without limits both economically and artistically.
   It is an important issue for me but I do not feel like discussing it with those who hate my position because of how I register or because I disagree on the degree of governance by only a few degrees. Get past the simplistic messages our party leaders are trying to sell us and think for yourselves. Vote for yourselves.  
   
    As for music I had a busy week. My weekly jam night included a visit to John Judd's Wednesday jam at McBrides. JJ had a good bunch of players including some new names here like Steve Farella, Ed Canova and Johnny Cola... and quite a few others. Judd alone is worth the trip by the way. He launches into some trippy riffs almost every time. It's a good idea to get to McBrides early (8:30ish) and then you can move on to one of the numerous other excellent jams on Wednesday nights. Check the calendar. Wednesday night has gotten good!
   Friday night I headed east to Grey Horse Tavern in Bayport. That's a nice room; not huge but wide open and comfortable. I caught Joseph (Felicetta) & Friends for a fun couple of sets of classic rock and folk in various guitar and vocal harmony's, all well done. It was a nice crowd and an excellent show! Check out Joseph and Friends and Blues Box, both collaborations by Joseph and Co.
   I still had some energy on Sunday night so I checked out the jam at Cafe Oasis in Baldwin by Debbie Knapper and Company. The place was full as usual and there were lots ofs talented vocalists and players. The guitar and bass; Al Cone and Sean Whitley held down a vast array of styles and singers with some nice grooves. It was a fun jam. That's another one to check out when you have a Sunday night free.
   The coming week has another full schedule. Being partial to blues I'd like to point out Mike Nugent and Co, Chrissie O'Dell and One Hot Mess, Coco Montoya, Frank LaTorre, Amos Lee.  
   Thanks for stopping by and feel free to correspond (bill@billfoolery.com). I would love to post some relevant pieces by some of you.
bill