Broad Ripple Gazette vol 9 no 16 - the Indiana State Fair Edition

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

I love this time of year – Indiana State Fair and all sorts of festivals are popping up. There is music everywhere. I always wish I had planned ahead to take some vacation days. I am going to try to keep up my streak of going to the State Fair every day. I’ll be the one with the goofy grin and dairy cow ring.

Indiana State Fair
Year of the Dairy Cow
Friday, August 3 – Sunday, August 19
gates 8:00 a.m. (6:00 a.m. for balloon race) – 9:00 p.m. Sun-Thurs, 9:30 Fri-Sat
all-ages, gates, $7 advance (CVS, Walmart, box office and more), $10 gate, $18 multi-day passes available

If you’ve even met me, you know I’m an Indiana State Fair junkie. As I kid visiting the State Fair was our version of a family vacation. I still can’t believe that I live close enough to walk or ride my bike. For the last several years I’ve made it to the Fair every single day and I intend to keep the streak alive.

It doesn’t matter what day you go – there are always plenty of free things to do once you get in the Fairgrounds. I spend big chunks of my time at Pioneer Village. The Village is as old as I am (you’ll have to visit the northeast part of the Fairgrounds to figure that out) and features demonstrations of Indiana farm life even older than I am. You can find old-timey music each day on the stage in the Pioneer Village Barn and check out the WLS Barn Dance Tribute Show on Friday, August 10, and Saturday, August 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Pioneer Village Opry House.

Make sure that you check on the 4-H projects in the halls in the northwest part of the Fairgrounds. The Open Show (adults and kids can enter projects) is housed in the Ellison Bakery Home and Family Arts Building. The building also has demonstrations and fashion shows through out the run of the Fair. One of my absolute favorite things that happens on the Home and Family Arts Main Stage is the “Introduction to Royalty, County Fair Queens.” The Queens from each county are introduced wearing something that shows their interests. I love how they show off their personalities. I’ve seen the girls wear sports uniforms, costumes representing their home counties, and fancy dresses they’ve made.

While the big name music shows have moved to the Banker’s Life Fieldhouse this year, there is plenty of great free music each day. I’m looking forward to REO Speedwagon on Monday, August 6, 7:00 p.m. on the Free Stage (northwest part of the Grounds) and Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band on Saturday, August 11, 8:00 p.m. on the Free Stage.

There are several other changes in the Fair this year. For the first time multi-day passes are available. For $18 you can purchase a pass that is good for three separate days. And did you know that you can get your hand stamped for a pass-out if you’re coming back later on the same day? This year there is a $5 charge for parking in the infield. You can avoid that by parking on the Rural Street side of Glendale Mall (62^nd and Keystone) and taking the free, air-conditioned shuttle bus. The shuttle leaves every twenty minutes from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. each day of the Fair. You can also arrive via foot or bike on the Monon Trail. Pedal & Park will watch your bike in their corral by Gate 18 and you’ll receive a $1 off voucher for your admission to the Fair. The Fair Train runs from Fishers (Government Center at 116^th Street) every 90 minutes starting at 8:30 each day (adults $9, children 2-12 $6). I’ve always wanted to ride the train but couldn’t justify driving to Fishers to take the train when I could walk there in 10 minutes. My dear brother pointed out that I could ride round trip from the Fairgrounds to Fishers and back instead. I’ll make sure I do that this year.

Make sure you visit IndianaStateFair.com for more details and grab a program on your way in. It is chockfull of information about entertainment, where and when to see your favorite animals, shows, competitions, and other information.

I’ll see you there!

Indy CD & Vinyl 10^th Anniversary Celebrations
Saturday, August 4, 2012 (11:00 – 9:00) – All-day sale and performances
Tuesday, August 7, 2012 (7 p.m.)– Reverend Peyton and His Big Damn Band

806 Broad Ripple Ave

all-ages, free,  

I wish there was more space to tell you exactly how cool Indy CD & Vinyl is, but it would take up with whole paper. You’ll just have to pop in and see for yourself.

They are celebrating their 10^th anniversary with a bash on Saturday, August 4 featuring big sale and awesome in-store concerts – by some of my favorite folks, no less: Richard Edwards (of Margot & The Nuclear So & So’s), Hotfox, Rocketbot, and Adam James Sorenson.

On Tuesday August 7, Reverend Peyon & His Big Damn Band will play a special record release show at 7:00 p.m. I strongly suggest that you not miss the chance to see them in such an intimate venue.

www.indycdandvinyl.com
margotandthenuclearsoandsos.net
hotfoxmusic.bandcamp.com
www.adamjamessorensen.com
www.bigdamnband.com

Steven Pratt Punk Rock Wake and Benefit Show
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Melody Inn
3826 N. Illinois Street
21+, doors 7:00/show 9:00, $5 donation

I wish I could say that I knew Steven better. He was a great drummer and I enjoyed his performances in several punk/hard core bands, - The Retreads, The Slammies, Drunko, The Mighty John Wayne’s, and a couple with names not suitable for a family newspaper. Steven moved to Hollywood a few years ago and I enjoyed keeping up with him on facebook.

He died after an altercation after band practice in a warehouse space in Los Angles. His family and friends are holding a wake for Steve at the Melody Inn. Steven’s old bands are playing and there will be a mic open for telling Steven stories.

Bands performing:

Phony Beatlemania (Clash Cover Band featuring members from America Owns The Moon, We Are Hex, Gestalts, and The Happy Thoughts), The Mighty John Wayne's, and Drunko. 

www.melodyindy.com
stevetprattmemorialfund.chipin.com

Indy Hostel Folk Festival
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave
all-ages, 12.50 presale/$15 at door/ read below for family pricing, 3:00 – 11:00 p.m.

If you haven’t been to the Hostel yet, now is your chance. And it’s just up the Monon Trail from the State Fair Grounds, so you can take a page from my book and do both things in one day. It’s fun - try it! Not only will there be great music, but it’s one of the shadiest yards in town. 

This is the second year for the Indy Hostel Folk Festival and it promises to be even bigger and better. The Hostel has added a second outdoor stage so the music will never end. The Spud Puppies are headlining the show. Other acts include  Old Truck Revival, Bro Slaw, Chicago-based Adam James Sorensen, Barbara Bell and the Whipstitch Sallies.

The day promises to be family-friendly with activities planned for the kiddos. You can bring your own drinks and snacks (they’ll pack your elephant ear from the Fair to go if you ask). There might be a food truck or two also. Bring blankets or chairs for seating.

I am often asked about the Hostel. People often confuse a hostel with a half-way or ‘flop’ house.' It’s quite the opposite. The Hostel is bright and airy and full of adventurous travelers, often from other countries. Pop in anytime for a tour of the dormitory-style lodging. The neighborhood is great – and I’m not just saying that because I live down the street.

You can purchase presale tickets for 12.50 at Indy Hostel. Kids under 8 years-old free, 8-12 just $5.00.

www.indyhostel.us

Locals Only Benefit Show
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Locals Only
2449 E. 56^th Street
21+, $8.00, doors at 4:30

The countdown has begun for the August 18^th ending of Locals Only being in their current space. The proceeds from this all-day concert will go to help Locals Only in their quest to open in a new venue. There will be the always-excellent food available, cleaning out the bar drink specials, local art on display. 

The musical line up is:

5:00-5:50 Ed Trauma (DJ)
5:50-6:15 El Carnicero (DJ)
6:15-6:35 Mic Sol & Ace One
6:40-7:25 Audio Recon
7:40-8:05 s.a.i.n.t. RECON
8:20-8:50 Rhinoceros Beetle
9:10-9:45 Cut Camp
10:00-10:45 Max Allen Band
11:05-11:50 Blackberry Jam
12:10-12:55 Harley Poe
12:55-1:10 DJ Ridge
1:10-1:40 ATFU w/ Eratic
1:40-2:10 Heavy Gun

Come out to salute one of the biggest supporters of local music in our great city.

localsindy.com

Sausagefest
Friday, August 17 & Saturday, August 18, 2012
St. Thomas Aquinas
4600 N. Illinois
all-ages, free

Yep, it’s a festival that features sausage, beer, and music. What’s not to love? The beer brewed by SunKing, the sausage is from Goose the Market, Gunthrop Farms, and L.E. Kincaid, and the musical lineup includes local bands. There are games for both kiddos and adults.

Buy a beer mug and tickets for food and beer when you arrive and dive right in! I don’t have enough room to list the full music lineup, but it includes Flatland Harmony Experiment, Dugan Brothers, 3:1, Bill Rumely's Class Trip and more.

Broad Ripple Gazette vol. 8 no. 23

The Broad Ripple neighborhood lost two great community-minded men last week.

Matt Elliott 

The neighborhood has a Matt Elliott sized hole in it.

Matt loved Broad Ripple. He graduated from BRHS and has been an integral part of the community ever since. With his red hair and handlebar mustache he was a hard guy to miss. You might have met Matt at the Northside Newsstand and News Café, the business he opened with group of high school friends. You might know Matt from his work tending bar and other delicious beer duties at Brugge. Or from the Jazz Kitchen or Bazbeaux. If you didn’t meet him any of those places, chances are you’ve stood next to him at a concert or art exhibit or sat next to him at a restaurant or bar.

Matt shopped locally before it was a slogan. He was very neighborhood-centric and could tell you where to find the best of absolutely anything. If you had the pleasure of running in Matt you knew that you were in for excellent conversation, a good belly-laugh and a bunch of random Indiana facts. He is missed already.

Ross Faris

The success of the Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market has a lot to do with Ross Faris.

Ross was on the committee that started the BRFM and is a tireless supporter of Farmer’s Markets, locally grown produce, and the community. Ross and his family started Your Neighbor’s Garden thirty years ago.

Ross was committed to bringing a large variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables to our city. His home market featured the same fresh produce with an honor box to pay for your purchases – it was always a treat to be trusted with making your own purchase.

Ross was a long-time supporter of Second Helpings, bringing not only his excess produce, but gleaning from other farmer’s market folks at the end of the season. YNG is closed for the season, to give his family and friends space to grieve. In the spirit of Ross’s generosity, all of the produce from YNG was delivered to Second Helpings the day after he died. Clearly, his community spirit lives on.

Previews:

Broad Ripple Village Holiday Preview Party
Friday, November 11, 2011

Broad Ripple Village

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, free, all-ages

Several Broad Ripple Village Merchants will be open for the Broad Ripple Village Preview Party. Eighteen venues will show off their holiday wares and fancy goodies. Drop off at least three pounds of pasta or rice for Second Helpings at any of the participating venues from the Holiday Preview night until Saturday, December 10 to be included in drawing for Broad Ripple merchant prizes – rumor has it that The Union Jack Pub will be offering a $50 gift certificate. Hint: you can drop off pasta and rice at as many locations and enter as many drawings as you wish.

www.discoverbroadripplevillage.com

Douglas David Holiday Studio Show
Friday, November 11, 2011
7172 Keystone Ave, suite D
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Douglas David will open his studio for a behind-the-scenes peek at his beautiful oil paintings just in time for the holidays. He’ll be featuring new work – including wonderful snow scenes, Chicago streetscapes, and the sailboat race from Chicago to Mackinaw – and the famous classic oil paintings he’s known for.

He’ll also have work from his Farm to Fair series and a delightful group of smaller (3 x 5) paintings.

The studio will also be open by appointment.

www.douglasdavid.com

Tonic 10 – featuring the Tonic Ball, Tonic Gallery, and Tiny Tonic to benefit Second Helpings
Friday, November 18, 2011
Fountain Square

all venues non-smoking

There is something for everyone this year. Swear. And all of the events are with in yards of each other. How cool is that? Read on for details.

Tiny Tonic featuring Ruditoonz
Pure Eatery  
1043 Virginia Ave

5:30pm - 7:00pm, free, all-ages (the younger the better!)

The Tonic Ball now has an event for the youngest of music fans. Tiny Tonic features Scott Rudicel, known to the kiddy set as Ruditoonz, will entertain the kiddos – he’s promised to follow the Tonic Ball theme this year and only play songs by Michael Jackson, REM, and David Bowie – I can wait to hear that!

Pure will offer a special child friendly menu and 10% of the proceeds will be donated to Second Helpings.

http://ruditoonz.com
www.tonicindy.com

           

Tonic Gallery

New Day Meadery
1102 E. Prospect
5:00 – 8:00
free, all-ages

The Tonic Gallery features over 35 visual artists who have generously donated their talents to the gallery show. The subjects of the artwork range from food to David Bowie. The original work will be available for sale though a silent auction, starting at $100, with a “buy it now” price of $400.

http://newdaymeadery.com

Tonic Ball
Radio Radio (songs of REM)
Fountain Square Theater (songs of Michael Jackson)
White Rabbit Cabaret (songs of David Bowie)

Prospect Street, Fountain Square
music from 7:00 pm – 1:00 am, $25 for all three venues, under 21 FST

This is the tenth year of the Tonic Ball! And to celebrate the always-on-the-Friday-before-Thanksgiving extravaganza is adding a third venue. Which means that 45 bands will cover the tunes of REM, Michael Jackson, and David Bowie.

For $25 you can move between all three venues and do your darndest to see all 45 bands. Last year’s Tonic Ball sold out, so get your ticket now! Insider tip: You’ll be able to pick out founder, Ken Honeywell by his awesome Jerry Lee Atwood handmade suit. It is truly spectacular.

www.tonicindy.com
www.secondhelpings.org

The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band, with the Dirt Daubers

Friday, November 25, 2011
The Vogue Theatre

6259 N College Ave

7:30pm - 11:30pm, 21+, non-smoking, $12 advance, $15 door

If you’ve never seen The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, prepare to have your damn mind blown. You won’t believe that three people can create so much energy and sound. Prepare to tap your toes and dance all of that pumpkin pie away.

www.bigdamnband.com

www.thedirtdaubers.net

www.asquaredindustries.com

www.thevogue.com

Tonic Ball VII- on the cover of NUVO, baby!

Woo Hoo! Read all about it here. 

Tonic Ball VII

From IBJ: Doing Good Tonic Ball VII

And, the lineups are:

Elvis stage (Fountain Square Theater)

7:00 The Turnipseeds
7:15 Luke Austin Daugherty
7:30 Fair and Square
7:45 Susan and The Desperate Seekers
8:00 We're Not Squibnocket
8:15 The Innate
8:30 CW and The Working Class Trio
8:45 Brian Deer
9:00 Creepin' Charley
9:15 Bars and Tone
9:30 Sanuk
9:45 Jennie De Voe
10:00 Frankie Camaro's Atomic Bombay
10:15 Mandy Marie and The Cool Hand Lukes

Queen stage (Radio Radio)

8:00 The Misprintz
8:20 Mars or the Moon
8:40 The Odyssey Favor
9:00 Everest
9:20 Jeff Byrd and The Wingmen
9:40 Bigger Than Elvis
10:00 We're Not Squibnocket
10:20 The Common
10:40 Retromeo
11:00 Yoko Moment
12:20 Dale Lawrence
11:40 Vess Ruhtenberg
mid Everything Now!
12:20 Red Light Driver

For more information: www.tonicball.com

tonic ball vii

Tonic Ball VII is rolling along. 

I'll have the lineup and set times posted here soon. 

Amy Speace and Stasia Demos - Thursday, August 21

Stasia Demos
Amy Speace and The Tearjerks
Thursday, August 21, 7 pm, $10.
Boulevard Place Café
4155 Boulevard Place
non-smoking, all ages

I cannot tell you how much I adore Amy Speace. She was one of the first people to play at CATH. And she started a long tradition of musicians sleeping on my sofa. In fact my cat’s last name is Speace, because she feels like part of the family. Her music (Amy’s, not the cat) has found a permanent home in my CD player.

You know how much I love connecting dots - the first time Amy played at the coffeehouse I drug her to see Middletown at Utopia. That was the night that Stasia Demos announced her engagement. Ta da! So, how cool is it that Stasia is opening for Amy 8-ish years later?

Amy has been quite busy in the meantime. She caught the ear of Judy Collins and has been supporting her tour along with an extensive schedule of her own.

I will most certainly be at the show. I’m off to blow up air mattresses – the band is staying with me. In the meantime, scroll down for one of the first ever pieces I wrote for NUVO.

Nora


COMING INTO HER OWN
Amy Speace
Monday, Oct. 23, 2006 7 p.m.


From playing at CATH coffeehouse to opening for Judy Collins, Amy Speace has come a long way in the last five years. CATH Inc., the acoustic venue at 54th Street and College Avenue that closed in September 2004, was the second stop on her first-ever tour. Speace has spent the past year as Judy Collins’ opening act and winning folk festival and songwriting awards. Her latest release, Songs For Bright Street, is on Collins’ Wildflower Records.

When asked about Judy Collins and Wildflower Records, Speace felt like she was giving a pageant contest answer: “It really has been a dream to open for Judy. She’s one of the first voices I remember from the radio … and she has always been that voice, so iconic.
“As a singer-songwriter working in a folk-based idiom, there are maybe a handful of artists that all want to hear us and nod their approval, and Judy is certainly in that group.”

Speace says that standing backstage listening to Collins sing is incredible. The first time she met Collins, she was distracted by the color of her eyes. Speace managed not to blurt out “Sweet Judy Blue Eyes” and instead greeted her with a very proper “nice to meet you, Ms. Collins.”

Songs For Bright Street is a great collection of Speace’s songwriting talents. Her music is pop-folk with a bit of alt-country tossed in. She will be performing that album and has promised some new songs.

Speace is looking forward to playing in the house concert intimacy of Indy Hostel and enjoying a good run on the Monon Trail.

For more information go to www.amyspeace.com
—Nora Spitznogle

indianapolis songwriters cafe

The Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe happens just once a month- and it's always swell. 

Read a preview of the Friday, August 15 show here. 

Big News from Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe

Here is a great bit of news from our friend Cliff Snyder at the Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe.

I'm so jealous (Second Helpings has a big event that night and I cannot attend this show)! I suggest that you buy a ticket right this second for this show. Details below.

Have fun - I can't wait to hear all about it.

Nora


"Hey there folks, if you've ever talked to me about music you know how I feel about Steve Earle! He's my musical jesus, blah, blah, blah... You've heard it, I know. BUT this show on October 10th the ISC will host Steve Earles son, Justin Townes Earle.

If you come to one ISC show this year come to this one. Justin puts on one hell of a show and the other writers involved in this night are really outstanding. Do me a big favor and pick up an advance ticket online, you've got plenty of time to make plans for the night and you might just help me be able to book shows like this down the line by coming out!

Justin Townes Earle - Tickets available NOW - Buy'em here!

Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe & My Old Kentucky Blog present:

Justin Townes Earle (The son of Steve Earle & namesake of Townes Van Zandt!) - http://www.myspace.com/justintownesearle

If you like good music then go to this link and buy a ticket - http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/40199

It won't cost much more than a couple of Starbucks coffees and it will certainly last longer! Advance tickets are only $8 & it's $10 at the door so grab one now!

The opening set is a songwriters round featuring...

Mandy Marie of the Cool Hand Lukes (solo!) - http://www.myspace.com/mandymarieandthecoolhandlukes

Cliff Snyder, host of the ISC and all around good guy, right? - http://www.myspace.com/cliffsnyder

Joe Pug, down all the way from the windy city & one hell of a writer - http://www.myspace.com/thejoepug

If you support this show I'll be able to continue working with national artists and you'll be helping build a good thing around there.

Take care & see you in October folks!"

Cliff
www.myspace.com/cliffsnyder
www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com
www.myspace.com/indianapolissongwriterscafe

Susan Cowsill (with Tad Armstrong and Aaron Stroup)

Hello lovelies,
[here is a review of the show]
My truck started making a horrible noise on the way to work this morning. Think ball bearings in a blender. A blender with a metal cup. Only louder. The sound made lots of fellow drivers stare at stop lights, which really put a crimp in my ‘apply makeup in the rear view mirror morning routine.’

Anyway, since I’ll be on foot for a few days I’m thrilled that I can walk to see Susan Cowsill at Indy Hostel on Saturday. And the obviously clever Susan is taking Tad Armstrong and Aaron Stroup on tour with her. You know how I feel about Tad and Aaron (Middletown) – any band they are in is bound to be terrific.

The Top Ten Live panel felt the same way this week. The show is at the number 2 spot, above Steve Miller, Joe Cocker and the Mudkids.

Susan Cowsill
Saturday, June 28, 2008
8 pm, $10, all ages welcome
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave
727.1696

I’ll see you there!
Nora

From Susan’s Web site: The singer/songwriter made her initial mark on popular culture at the tender age of eight with The Cowsills, the 60s family pop group that not only scored Top Ten singles The Rain, the Park and Other Things, Hair and We Can Fly but also served as the real-life inspiration for TV's fictional Partridge Family. During Susan’s decade with roots-pop supergroup The Continental Drifters, she won the hearts of discerning listeners with her impassioned vocals and personally-charged songwriting, gracing three widely-acclaimed albums and a decade’s worth of riveting performances. Cowsill's vocal talents have beautifully supported recordings from artists as diverse as Dwight Twilley, Redd Kross, The Smithereens, Giant Sand, Nanci Griffith, Carlene Carter and Jules Shear, while her compositions have been covered by The Bangles and Hootie and the Blowfish.

Cowsill's much-loved prior work can now be viewed as a prelude to the stunning solo achievement of Just Believe It. The collection marks a musical and personal milestone for the artist, embodying the same qualities of musical craft and emotional nuance that distinguished her work with The Continental Drifters, while adding a deeper, more resonant and unmistakably personal edge. The CD features guest appearances by Lucinda Williams on the hauntingly bittersweet "Nanny's Song"; Counting Crows front man Adam Duritz, harmonizing with Cowsill on the upbeat "Palm of My Hand," (also featuring Cowsill's former Drifters bandmate and real-life sister-in-law, Bangle Vicki Peterson) Along with 13 new Cowsill originals, Just Believe It includes a stunning cover of Sandy Denny/Fairport Convention classic "Who Knows Where the Time Goes". The entire CD maintains a solid grounding in the organic honesty of rural folk and the catchy melodicism of '60s pop, while dipping into the fluid R&B grooves of Cowsill's longtime hometown of New Orleans.

This summer Cowsill embarks on her most extensive solo tour to date. Her road-toughened summer combo, including Russ Broussard (Continental Drifters) on drums, Tad Armstrong on bass guitar/vocals and ace guitarist Aaron Stroup (both formerly of Indianapolis-based band Middletown), merges a seamless rock sensibility with an organic sensitivity that echoes the singer’s own.

Broad ripple gazette, vol 5. no 13

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Steve Poltz
Indianapolis Indians day game
Wednesday, June 3, 2008

My flight back from Washington D.C. circled around the city and I had a birds-eye view of Victory Field, including the lit scoreboard. I took that as a sign that I should attend the day game instead of unpack or heaven forbid, go to work. I had a feeling that I’d find my dad and his buddies there and I did. As Dad and his group yelled “Nora,” I heard my name being shouted from another direction. Typically when I hear the name Nora, I know they mean me. I looked over to see musician Steve Poltz from San Diego and Dave Queisser of Locals Only. I’d missed Steve’s concert the night before but had gotten text updates from Cara Wahlers and Tammy Lieber.

Steve and Dave sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” which made up for me missing the show. For once I got to entertain them and took them up to visit Bruce Schumaker in the public announcer’s booth. They almost behaved, and I loved every second of it.

www.poltz.com
www.indyindians.com
www.localsonlyindy.com

and later that night…

Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses
Wednesday, June 3, 2008
Birdy’s

Not long ago I realized that I really like everyone on the Lost Highway record label. Their roster includes Elvis Costello, Lyle Lovett, Van Morrison, Willie Nelson, The Jayhawks, Hayes Carll and Willie Nelson. And, true to form I really liked what I heard of their newest, and I’m guessing youngest artist, Ryan Bingham.

I tried to connect with Ryan for a phone interview but between his aggressive touring schedule and my busy days of spreadsheets and meetings about meetings we couldn’t connect. The one afternoon that I had open, he was taping an appearance on Conan O’Brien. It made me feel like I was sitting at the big kids table to be skipped over for Conan – I’m sure he struggled with the decision, but I’m sure he made the right choice.

The night Ryan played in Indianapolis he literally blew in with the storm. They had to fight bad weather all the way from Pennsylvania. They arrived hours later than they planned to but it didn’t slow them down at all.

Ryan and the Dead Horses hit the stage running and didn’t slow down. They played a high-energy set that really showed off his Texas music roots. The songs incorporate everything from Mariachi to boot stomping roadhouse rock

Ryan’s songs are uncommonly personal and reveling, and if you didn’t know anything about the 26 year old, you might think it was a put-on. His youth gave him plenty of song material, and it’s all real. His family moved so often that he quit unpacking the cardboard box that held his things. On his own since his mid-teens he supported himself by traveling on the junior rodeo circuit (and has the belt buckle to prove it) and sleeping on friends’ sofas and the back of his truck. He didn’t seriously start playing guitar until he was 17.

He started entertaining friends on the rodeo circuit, which led to a regular gig in a Texas bar. He was bouncing from rodeo to music gigs and the night he double booked himself he made the easy choice of playing music. Again, I think he choose wisely.

Ryan and the band had the attention of the audience all night. His voice is often compared to Tom Waits. I thought he sounded like the perfect blend of whiskey and cigarettes. Ryan sang, “I’m a book, not a page…” And I believed him.

I look forward to hearing at lot more from this very talented young man.

www.binghammusic.com
www.losthighwayrecords.com

NUVO Cultural Vision Awards
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Thursday, June 5, 2008

This is the 10th year for the Cultural Vision Awards and I’ve had the honor of attending the presentation for at least half of them. It always makes me proud as can be to live in this community. 

Congratulations to Kevin Phillips and Mark Latta of Standard Recording Company for being among this year’s recipients.

From there, I headed to:
Chuck Prophet
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Radio Radio

Chuck Prophet is an amazing guitar player. And he’s been proving it for years. He was part of the cosmic country rock band Green On Red when he was in his teens. He had the stereotypical musical career heartaches, an addiction to crack cocaine, a manager that stole his publishing rights and threw away his master recordings. He kicked the cocaine and regained the publishing rights and is a musician’s musician. His songs have been covered by the likes of Kim Richey and Heart. He’s played on tons of recordings by his fellow musicians including Cake and Warren Zevon.

He’s got a great voice to match that stellar guitar playing and the songs to match. The crowd was age appropriate to Chuck (he’s 43). Several people were dancing - including me, for just a minute, it was an accident, really. I was just trying to get to the other side of the room for a photograph. No more short cuts for me. Anyway, Chuck said that he “was not used to going places where people dance – in a friendly way, anyway.”

Since I was on a roll (binge is such an ugly word), I headed to:

Jason and the Punknecks
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Sam’s Saloon

This was my first trip to Fountain Square’s newest music venue. Luckily I got to plop down with Broad Ripple’s own Otto and Cara Wahlers so I felt at home.

Okay, I’ll admit it. The band scared me a little bit. It was not the tattoos or the outfits. I thought they looked cute as buttons. And they were good high-energy cow punk musicians. I’m just hoping the between-songs chatter was just part of this Hollywood, California’s bands shtick. I’ll leave it at that.

Loretta – CD release and farewell show
Friday, June 6, 2008
Birdy’s

I was so excited for the guys in Loretta. Birdy’s was packed full of the cool kids, parents and people like me, that fall somewhere in between. The band played all of the songs from their new release "Message Received, Not Understood" and lots of their older tunes. The band has been playing since 1999 and I think they got a good send off. They certainly will be missed.

www.lorettamusic.net
www.birdyslive.com

James McMurtry
Monday, June 9, 2008
Birdy’s

I was happy to see such a good crowd for the rainy Monday night James McMurtry show. I’ve seen James (yep, he’s the son of writer Larry) several times in the last ten years and I think he keeps getting better each time. He certainly had found his roots rock groove. The audience was really in to the music, tapping boots and singing along.

I got a good look at the glamorous life a touring musician lives as I saw James and the band load out their equipment in the rain. Ah, the life of a rock star.

www.jamesmcmurtry.com
www.birdyslive.com

and since it was on the way home…

All in the Family Jam
Monday, June 9, 2008
Mousetrap

I may have mentioned that I’m not a fan of jam bands, and mainly because I didn’t understand it. I grew up musically on punk rock- three chords, 90 seconds and done. I’ve come to realize that when musicians “jam” it takes a lot more talent and trust on their part. And I cannot imagine what it takes to jam with musicians you don’t typically play with, which is what the All in the Family Jam is about. Sort of an open stage jam session. I’m glad I stopped in. 

The All in the Family Jam is typically on Wednesday nights.

I’m out of room and time for more reviews….I promise reviews of David Sedaris, Scott Rudicel and the concert for LonPaul next time.

Previews:
Indianapolis Songwriters Café
Jason Wilber, Cara Wahlers, Stasia Demos, Marc Jeffares
Friday, June 20, 2008
Boulevard Place Café
4155 Boulevard Place
$5, 7-9,all ages, non-smoking

I rarely give you all an order, but I’m doing it this time: Go see this show. Seriously. Four great musicians, a great concept and its only five dollars. What more could you ask for?

Jason Wilber is one of my favorite singer/songwriters. Galway Waltz was the soundtrack in my head for my Ireland trip.  In his spare time he tours with John Prine and played on his Grammy winning record.

Cara Jean Wahlers sings like a bird and writes songs like an old soul, a quirky old soul, but an old soul.

Stasia Demos’ fans range from toddlers to their parents. If you don’t like Stasia then there is no hope for you.

I don’t know a thing about Marc, but if he’s in the company of these three, then he’s got to be a good egg.

If you go, write me a review – I’m just sick that I have to miss it.

www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com

Susan Cowsill
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave
317-727-1696
$10, 8:00 pm, all ages, non smoking

America’s beloved Susan Cowsill has been a pop icon since she was touring while in kindergarten. As the youngest member of the seminal family band The Cowsills. The Cowsills were the real life inspiration for The Partridge Family. Susan has made quite a post Cowsills career playing with the Continental Drifters and as a solo musician.

In what surely must be her best musical decision yet, she and husband Russ Broussard are taking Tad Armstrong and Aaron Stroup on the road with them for a summer tour. Tad and Aaron have played together for years, most recently in Middletown. And as you know, they are two of my favorite musicians. Ever. I’ll see you there!

www.susancowsill.com
www.indyhostel.us

I'll see you out and about!

What to do this weekend? Glad you asked!

Hello lovelies,
I’ve got your weekend planned.
Seriously, down to the minute, planned.
I can’t believe how much great stuff there is going. I like to think its all in honor of my birthday weekend -- I can celebrate the whole weekend, right?

I. (first-ever) Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe Show - Friday, May 16th, 7:00 pm @ Boulevard Place Café
II. Otis Gibbs House Concert- Friday, May 16, 7 pm (arrive between 6:30-6:45 pm)
III. Jeff Holmes (of the Floating Men) –Friday, May 16, 8:00 pm @ Indy Hostel
IV. Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market – Saturday, May 17, 8:00-noon, behind BRHS
V. Cottage Home Neighborhood Home Tour- Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
VI. Broad Ripple Art Fair – Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
VII. ike Winter with Amy & Duane Summers – Saturday, May 17, 7:00 pm @ Indy Hostel.
VIII. Lare Williams and New Direction House Concert – Sunday, May 18, 6:00 pm.

I realized as I was typing the list that all of the events are nonsmoking and family friendly. And don’t feel like you need to just pick one this to do this weekend. – I think four out of eight is very reasonable.

Read on for details, descriptions and a way to get a free ticket to the Cottage Home Home Tour and a complimentary yoga session!
- I’m sure I’ll see you out and about,
xoxo, Nora


I. (first-ever) Indianapolis Songwriters Cafe Show
Bill Price, Frank Dean and Brent Bennett
Friday, May 16th, 7:00 pm, $5.
Boulevard Place Café
4155 Boulevard Place


Cliff Synder is the hardest working man in the singer/songwriter business. He’s kicking off the first of a series of Songwriters Café Shows. Cliff created this wonderful site: Songwriters Café. It is chock-full of information, schedules and one air-brushed photo of moi. Cliff has put his heart, soul, countless hours and money-where-his-mouth-is into this show. The rounded up the best-of-the best for this show. It would warm his little heart to see you there.
www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com
www.billprice.info
www.frankdean.com
www.brentbennettmusic.com


II. Otis Gibbs House Concert
Friday, May 16, 7 pm (arrive between 6:30-6:45 pm)
$10

The Jackson’s are the new kids on the house concert circuit. They are hosting Wanamaker’s favorite son Otis Gibbs.
The details -
Who: You + your musically astute friends & family (no small children please)
Where: The Jackson’s house near Butler University
When: Friday, May 16 @ 7pm start time. Please arrive between 6:30 & 6:45
Why: Because we love good music by good people
Suggested Donation: $10 (100% of donations go to Otis)
Feel free to bring a snack or your favorite drink to share. NO RED WINE.
They have two 60-lb friendly dogs that will be locked up for the night. But if you are allergic, remember to take your allergy medicine.
They will send you a confirmation letter (which includes directions to our home in near Butler University on Indy’s North side) when you write back to let us know you'll be joining us for this great evening of music. RSVP to kyle@flatearthrecords.com
About Otis: Otis writes & sings songs that tell stories about small town life, simple pleasures, as well as protest songs championing workers rights.
Rick Cornell of NO DEPRESSION described Otis music as, “It’s the perfect mix of wit & grit.”
The CHAMPIAGN/URBANA CITY VIEW said, “Thinking Mans Country comes closest to the sound & wordsmithing of this brilliant singer/songwriter.”

www.otisgibbs.com
www.reverbnation.com/otisgibbs
www.flatearthrecords.com


III. Jeff Holmes (of the Floating Men)
Friday, May 16, 8:00 pm, $10
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave

The Indy Hostel has a house concert vibe, the only difference is the living room is bigger, brighter and has a better sound system than my house. And no stacks of books to trip over. Floating Man member Jeff Holmes is playing a solo show. I love this quote, “He's the illegitimate father of lit-rock and could've launched Americana—yet Jeff Holmes still keeps a day job after two decades of great songwriting. It's a dashing "I'm the biologist who's gonna save the world" kind of day job, but Renaissance men should be free to let the art come first… The only other consistency has been Holmes' ability to write incredibly indulgent music that's catchy and appealing. He's a timid intellectual at heart, but also a wordy bastard who's fearless in mining classic pop territory. That's enough to qualify him as a true outsider artist, but without the extra chromosome."
-J.R, Taylor , Black and White, Birmingham's City Paper
www.indyhostel.us
www.myspace.com/jeffholmesthefloatingmen

IV. Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market
behind Broad Ripple High School
Saturday, May 17, 8:00-noon

This is the third week for the Market. Last week’s purchases: a package of locally produced pork chops, goat cheese, 4-H geraniums, a poppy plant and two tomato plants. The pork chops are so big and hearty looking and enough for a family of four that they scared me and I tossed them in the freezer- I blame Joe the cute meat guy for making me lose focus. I’ve been snacking on the cheese all week and have managed not to kill any of the plants, yet. The Market has it all- pie, music and community. Check out musician Tom Duncan while you’re there.

V. Cottage Home Neighborhood Home Tour
Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
11:00-5:00
$10, available at each home

I adore the Cottage Home Neighborhood. Lovely houses and even more charming neighbors. I rode my bike to an event there last year. Before I headed home someone filled my tire with air, I’d had two home tours and a beer – all offered by people that I didn’t know. The home and garden tour features twelve eclectic homes…and, of course, gardens. For more information: www.cottagehome.info
I’ll be hanging out (docent is the official term) at the Henderson house on Saturday, and not just because Laura offered a free yoga class. She is still looking for a few more volunteers to help “man” their house- the reward: a pass to the tour and a yoga class for a two hour volunteer shift. Contact Laura for more details: leahpilates@gmail.com

VI. Broad Ripple Art Fair
Saturday, 10:00-6:00
Sunday, 10:00-5:00
Indianapolis Art Center$15 adults/$2 children

I don’t know that I can say much about this Art Fair that has not been said in the last 38 years.
Great art (say hi to Douglas David) and fabulous music (Michael Kelsey, The Richmonds and Ruditoonz to name a few).
Click here to download the program.


VII. Mike Winter with Amy & Duane Summers
Saturday, May 17
7:00 pm, $5
Indy Hostel
4903 Winthrop Ave

Mike Winters... a blend of country rock influences with songs of love for God, country and family. A balance of tempo ballads and rockers.
Duane and Amy Summers... Amy is a singer songwriter with passion, powerful lyrics and a beautiful singing voice. Duane adds strong accompaniment and harmonies.

www.indyhostel.us


VIII. Lare Williams and New Directon
Home Fields Advantage Concert Series Season Finale
Sunday, May 18, 6 pm
$10 donation

I saved the best for last!
The Home Fields Advantage Concert Series sets the bar pretty darn high for house concerts.
I’ll let the lovely Cary Allen Fields give you the lowdown:
It's been a marvelous "Home Fields Advantage" house concert season, and we're going to wrap it up in style!
With frequently-requested original songs such as "Changing Town" often heard on The Fields Of Bluegrass Radio Hour, this national touring act hails from Western Michigan and is one of the finest contemporary bluegrass aggregations on the scene today.
Lare Williams, with his smooth and distinctive tenor voice, leads this highly-entertaining family band which also includes Patty and Baley Williams. Rounding out the quartet is banjo man Tod Chapman. Everyone contributes vocals, and the harmonies and fine ensemble playing of Lare Williams & New Direction are truly a thing to be heard and to behold!

Hear here:
www.myspace.com/larewilliamsnewdirection
www.larewilliams.com

And, in keeping with our Utopian vision for a better musical tomorrow,
100% goes to the artists.

And...

This is a pitch-in, so bring a dish or favorite drink, if you'd like.

Please RSVP ASAP!!! bluegrassindy@yahoo.com
This one will fill-up fast, there are only 25 seats available.

We'll send a confirmation letter (which includes directions to our illustrious hostess Cyndi's warm and welcoming home in Nora on Indy's north side) when you write back to let us know you'll be joining us for this great evening of music.

http://fieldsofbluegrass.com
http://myspace.com/fields_of_bluegrass

That’s all I’ve got folks- I’ll see you soon,
N.

Second Friday, Second Helpings

From the Musical Family Tree site. Sign up for the social networking site while you're there. I love it!

Second Fridays, Second Helpings
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Upper Room (above the Broad Ripple Steakhouse)
10 pm. Donation (cash/pasta) to Second Helpings, please

Following the success of the Broad Ripple Fall Music Festival, a few of us put our heads together to try to see if we could create a series based on the kind of success we had combining music, raising money and awareness, and building new venues for music.

The Upper Room has been booking live original music for some time. Jeff Sample has a long history in Indianapolis music both as a musician and songwriter, and through his bookings at Birdy's - supporting original local music 300 days a year.

Second Helpings feeds the hungry and provides vocational opportunities in the community. Nora Spitznogle promotes original music tirelessly in Indianapolis by talking about music, going to shows, and writing for both Nuvo and the Broad Ripple Gazette. She is well-known in the songwriter scene since her booking and hotel services were the primary force behind CATH as a performance space.

Musical Family Tree is dedicated to building a community around Indiana music. Thousands of mp3's are available from hundreds of bands and their work in the community promoting shows, releases, and behind the scenes awareness for dozens of cultural efforts in the city and beyond.PJ Christie has been one of the driving forces behind the scenes on MFT since the beginning and has a long history promoting a dozen bands, songwriting and performing.

The good people in Indianapolis have a lot to be thankful that these three individuals have come together to promote a monthly event called Second Fridays, Second Helpings at The Upper Room to benefit Second Helpings beginning March 14, 2008. Muscial Family Tree is supporting the effort by providing access to the top performers in the area.

This night has been in the making for a couple months but unfortunately our busy schedules have not allowed for a proper kickoff meeting, so we are counting on all of you to help make this first event special. Come out for a night of good original music and bring a donation of food for Second Helpings.March 14 will feature PJ, Lance Drake and Chris Haskett in a songwriter in the round type of event.

The three of them played in the highly regarded band Baroo in Chicago from 1999 to 2001. Previously and since, they have all performed in a wide variety of bands. Currently PJ can be seen playing bass for local favorites The Vulgar Boatmen while his own band is on hiatus. Lance is tearing up the Chicago scene in his acoustic quartet Deep Cricket Night. Chris plays with his new project, My Special Purpose and has joined Ben Justus as the drummer.

But all of them will come together to play new and old material and support each other in a once in a lifetime performance. Come out and be a part of it! Many of you might want to be a part of future shows, let us know if you are interested!

Middletown, Thursday December 27

Hello sugarplums,

As another year winds down you get one more chance to see the late-great-they-only-play-when-Aaron Stroup-is-in-town Middletown.

This Thursday (12/27) evening at the downstairs wine cellar of the Corner Wine Bar (details below).

The end of the year also brings in inevitable lists. For my take on the year in review for folk and world music click here.
For Harry Cheese's (BenWah Salami) wrap-up of national events click here.

In my quest for total local print media domination turn to page 22 of the current NUVO. The Be Indypendent ad campaign features me talking about why I purchased Kipp Normand's Robot #3.

I'll see you Thursday evening.
Nora

MIDDLETOWN
THE CORNER WINE BAR (downstairs wine cellar)
THURSDAY DECEMBER 27th(8-10:30ish)
http://www.cornerwinebar.com/ 21 and over

http://www.nuvo.net/articles/2007_music_year_in_review/
http://www.nuvo.net/articles/the_national_scene_in_review/

tonic ball photographs

You can see them here and then clicking on Tonic Ball VI.

I'm still too overwhelmed to write a proper review, I promise one soon - after I take a nap!

Tonic Ball 2007 line up

Fountain Square Theater
Madonna Stage

8:10 Turnipseeds
8:30 Squibnocket
8:50 Bars and Tone
9:10 Buckdancer's Choice
9:30 Wolfy
9:50 Benders
10:10 Jon Strahl
10:30 Susan and the Desperate Seekers
10:50 Stasia & The Shanghai Surprise
11:10 Yoko Moment
11:30 Jennie Devoe
11:50 CW and the Working Class Trio
12:10 Everthus the Deadbeats
12:30 Dark House Sweet
12:50 Jason Hathaway

Radio Radio
The Clash Stage

8:00 Groove Box
8:20 Odyssey Favor
8:40 Fair and Square
9:00 Chad Mills
9:20 Everything Now!
9:40 Squibnocket
10:00 Yoko Moment
10:20 Born Again Floozies
10:40 Jeff Byrd and the Wingmen
11:00 Retromeo
11:20 The Common
11:40 Red Light Driver
mid Otis Gibbs
12:20 lovemeknots
12:40 Mandy Marie and the Cool Hand Lukes
1:00 Vess Ruthenberg
1:20 Bigger Than Elvis

Tonic Ball 11.16.2007

For details and to purchase tickets click here.