So far, 2012 has been very busy, indeed, and it shows no signs of becoming less so, at least for the next few months. I am grateful, since being busy is far better than sitting on one's hands, especially as a performing songwriter. February brings shows in NY, NJ, PA, and MA, plus my first solo appearance at the Folk Alliance International Conference in Memphis!
I haven't been to Folk Alliance since I attended with Red Molly in 2009, so I am very excited about returning. This year, I have the honor of performing as an Official Showcase Artist! This annual conference brings a chance to cement musical friendships, form and renew business relationships, and generally revel in marvelous music with kindred spirits for a long weekend. I can't wait!
Hopefully, I'll have lots of news to report upon my return. Until then, I hope to see you out there on the road someplace. May February be warm and cozy for you, my friends!
Peace,
cs
janus - January 1, 2012
Today, like the two-headed Roman god Janus, I look both backward and forward simultaneously. Well, not literally. I assure you I haven't grown another head. That would be really weird.
Seriously, though, in reflecting on 2011, I feel mostly gratitude - for a loving family, for a comfy place to call home, for the opportunity to do the things I love best, and for the creative energy to keep on doing them. I feel privileged to live the life I do, and am ever so thankful for friends near and far who support my endeavors in myriad ways.
In looking forward toward 2012, I feel mostly excitement - for the opportunity to share stages with some of my favorite musicians, for the chance to showcase at the MotherOfAllFolkConferences in Memphis, and for the challenging, yet happy work of songwriting and performance that lies ahead. I am also strangely excited about what is not yet known. For the mystery in the unplanned, the anticipation of what may come. Bring it, 2012. Here I am.
Happy New Year, everyone. May your days be filled with wonderful unknowns...
Peace,
Carolann
Planning with Gratitude - November 26, 2011
As ever, and mostly at this time of year, I am thankful for a life in music, for a little family who supports and nurtures me in my chosen profession, and for the willing ears of folks like you who allow me to continue doing what I love best. In the festive air of of these months, I pause to give thanks, then turn my thoughts toward what's around the bend...
Lots of my time and energy during the holiday season goes into planning where I'll be traveling in the first half of 2012. I am delighted to report that some really exciting things are brewing. Here are a few highlights:
First of all, I'll be starting 2012 with a bang at Kennett Flash (Kennet Square PA) on January 7. This will be my first solo headliner in this beautiful room, so to make the occasion extra festive, I'll be bringing a BAND to this show, featuring my longtime friend and collaborator, percussionist CHERYL PRASHKER. Looking forward to a fabulous time with Philly-area friends!
In February, I'll be heading to Memphis for the 24th International Folk Alliance Conference, a "gathering of the tribe" if ever there was one. In addition to reconnecting with musical friends from near and far, I am honored to have been selected as an Official Showcase Artist this year. Can't wait to share my latest tunes with the folk community at large!
March brings a mini-tour with my dear friend PAT WICTOR, singer-songwriter, renowned slide player, and one-third of the celebrated male harmony trio BROTHER SUN. Pat and I will be sharing shows in Bethlehem PA, Wellsville NY, and Walton NY that will feature us both on our own and in wonderful collaborations that have me dusting off my pretty little mandolin just for the occasion. If you're in the neighborhood, you won't want to miss these shows!
Of course, I hope to add many more dates to my dance card in the coming weeks and months, so the CALENDAR page is the place to go for the latest info on my musical comings-and-goings.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a new year filled with love, music and
Peace,
Carolann
Freaky Saturday - October 29, 2011
Today is the 29th of October, and I am watching snow fall outside my Brooklyn window as I type this. Yes, you read that right. I said snow. Strange, yet strangely relaxing, since today is a day in which my biggest plan is to cook dinner for my family... Nice to just nest every now and again, and a freak snowstorm is a great excuse to drop the "to do" list for a little while.
It is a season of changes, I suppose. Despite this freaky day, we've been slowly adjusting to the creeping chill in the air, the falling leaves and the shorter days. Change happens whether or not we want it to sometimes, and though I often find myself resistant to such things, changes often make things better, or at least richer.
What's changing for me these days is the focus of my musical life. Whereas most of the last decade has been spent honing performance skills, I find myself concentrating more and more on the writing aspect of my chosen profession. Writing songs used to be a daunting task, one I looked forward to with nervous anticipation, at best. In the past year - the past few months most especially - I've written more songs than I had during the previous five. And the late, great Jack Hardy was right. It gets easier. The more you practice, and the less importance you place on making each song a big "hit," the more pleasurable the act of writing becomes.
I attribute the change in my attitude toward writing to the two songwriting groups I'm currently involved in: Chicks with Dip, a collective of women I've been meeting with for many years; and the Jack Hardy Songwriters' Exchange, a group I've been attending with some regularity for the past few months. Having something new to present at each of these meetings has really gotten my creative juices flowing again, and the feedback I've received from other writers of all stripes has been very helpful, indeed. Being in the presence of so many wonderfully creative minds is also pretty inspiring for me. I am grateful for all I've learned thus far, and happy to say a new crop of songs is emerging from my efforts. Writing is much more fun these days, and I look forward to sharing new songs with you as I deem them ready for more ears...
So glad to have you along for this next step in my creative journey. Here's to positive change!
Peace,
Carolann
September Morn - September 5, 2011
Ah, Neil Diamond. I think of him (and La Streisand) every time I walk past Erasmus High School here in Flatbush. Who knows? Someday, my boy may go there too, then grow up to be an international superstar. Maybe. But I suppose he should focus on getting through Kindergarten first.
No matter how old I get, September has always meant back-to-school for me. Now, of course, the smallest member of our household actually does go back to school each September, so new notebooks, freshly-sharpened pencils, and feelings of excitement and trepidation are all in the air as we sense new beginnings and contemplate possibilities. So many possibilities...
Kids go back to school and parents make plans. Mine include some cycling, a little Yoga, and lots of writing. Got myself some new notebooks and pencils, too, so maybe the ideas that keep flying around in my head can get written down before they flit out the window and into another songwriter's imagination. Hoping to get more involved with some of the wonderful songwriting collectives here in NYC, and looking forward to nurturing budding and veteran performers at the Christopher Street Coffeehouse open mic, where I'm privileged to serve as host.
So here's to new beginnings for everyone. We all deserve a fresh white sheet of paper and a new pencil every now and again.
And a few weeks back, I was lucky enough to be interviewed by Kathy Millar of WHUD radio in New York's Hudson Valley. Kathy's a terrific interviewer, and it was a real pleasure talking with her. You can hear the interview in its entirety by clicking HERE.
On August 24, I will be returning to the WVKR studios in Poughkeepsie to visit with Sharon Panaro and chat about the new record. Sharon's also a delight to be around, and I look forward to our talk. If you're not in the WVKR listening area, you can stream Sharon's show live, Wednesday evenings at 6PM, on the WVKR WEBSITE.
Until next time, then, I wish you
Peace,
cs
How You Feelin'? - August 1, 2011
July was just smokin' here in Brooklyn, and not only because of all the barbecue grills going in Prospect Park. In the immortal words of my fellow Staten Island native, David Johansen (aka Buster Poindexter), we are feeling "hot, hot, hot!"
But the hottest night of the month for me was July 28. That evening, I was privileged to perform songs from Threshold at The Living Room in NYC with a smokin' band of players - Cheryl Prashker (drums), Mike Weatherly (bass), Steve Kirkman (guitar), Sara Milonovich (fiddle), Mark Allen Berube (banjo), and Catherine Miles (vocals)! I had the time of my life, and am so grateful to these wonderful musicians and all the good folks who came out to listen so enthusiastically! Made me want to schedule more full-band shows down the road...
Meanwhile, Threshold is enjoying some success out there in radio-land. Here's where we are this week:
# 80 on AMA's Americana Ranking
# 42 on Cashbox Magazine / Roots Music Report's Folk Top 50
# 14 on Folk DJ
# 7 on the Roots Music Report's Folk Internet Airplay Top 50
Not bad for a little indie record, huh? All those numbers make me think of Casey Kasem and the American Top 40...
Until we meet again, I wish you carefree summer days filled with cool drinks, good music and
Peace,
Carolann
Independence Day - July 3, 2011
As I enjoy the long holiday weekend with family in beautiful Western Massachusetts, I feel grateful. Grateful to be surrounded by loving family and friends, grateful to make my living doing what I love, and grateful that my great-grandparents chose to cross the ocean so many years ago in hopes of a better life in America. I can only imagine what my ancestors were thinking as they sailed into New York Harbor, but I somehow think their ideals were pretty much in line with those of the American founding fathers. And I'm happy to say their descendants, myself included, certainly enjoy a freer and more comfortable life than those who crossed the Atlantic. This is what I'm thinking about this Independence Day...
And what a wonderful thing it is to be independent, especially as a musician. For instance, I am excited that an independent record like "Threshold," is garnering airplay all over the country! These fine stations have already played tracks from my new CD:
WAMC, Albany NY
WFUV, New York NY
WFDU, Teaneck NJ
WXPN, Philadelphia PA
WVKR, Poughkeepsie NY
WEFT, Champaign IL
WPSU, State College PA
WQBR, McElhattan PA
WRKF, Baton Rouge LA
KGLP, Gallup NM
WNEC, Henniker NH
Also very excited to celebrate the release of "Threshold" with a bunch of shows this month, culminating in a big CD Release party with full band on July 28 at The Living Room in my hometown of New York City!
Thanks for helping me remain an independent musician... I do hope we meet again soon, at a show or otherwise. But until then, I wish you a wonderful summer filled with great music, great times, and
Peace,
Carolann
A Stop on the Journey - June 1, 2011
I cannot begin to tell you exactly how excited I am that my latest CD, Threshold, is finished and ready for the world! As with any endeavor worth pursuing, of course, the joy is in the journey - and this is only one stopping point on the road - but I must say that this particular milestone is really, really thrilling for me. There's just something about actually holding that little cardboard folder with the plastic disc inside that sets my heart all a-flutter...
As I pause to reflect, I realize most of the joy in this journey stems from the excellent travel companions I have had thus far: Fred Gillen, Jr., whose production skills and boundless enthusiasm for the project made every step easy; Cheryl Prashker and Mike Weatherly, who together formed the most soulful rhythm section I could imagine; Sara Milonovich, whose amazing violin brought both sweet and sinister elements to the mix; Steve Kirkman, who knew exactly which notes to play on which guitars, and exactly what they should sound like; Catherine Miles, who sang like The Carter Family, The Jordanaires, and The Staples Singers all rolled into one fabulous voice; and my own beloved Mark Allen Berube, who brought twangy banjo, warm bass vocals, and most importantly, unflagging support to the project every day.
Also with me on the journey were my friends Mark Dann, Elizabeth Robinson, and Jim Colbert, who graciously contributed their engineering, photography, and design talents, respectively, to the project with as much gusto as if it were their faces on the cover of the record. Many thanks to these folks for turning parts of the project I dreaded into sheer joy.
Now comes the next part of the journey, wherein the little cardboard folders with the little plastic discs venture out into the world to meet people. Perhaps you've already met one. If you can give it a good home, I thank you for being yet another excellent companion on this wonderful journey.
I look forward to seeing you out there on the road of life.
Peace,
cs
Being Productive - May 1, 2011
May Day... mayday... day of labor, day of help from friends. I'm happy to say that my own artistic labors in recent months are about to pay off in spades, due to the equally artistic labors of my dear friend and producer, Fred Gillen, Jr. At long last, my latest CD, "Threshold," is actually at the manufacturer, and will be printed and ready for public listening within just a few short weeks! And what a labor of love it has been...
Making a solo record after being part of a successful trio for six years is a leap of faith, to say the least. We grow to trust the instincts and ears of bandmates as we trust the instincts of a spouse, and trusting oneself after being part of a winning team for so long is not exactly easy.
That's where Fred came in. Together, we formed a new team, and trusted each other's ideas, instincts, and ears. Side by side, we created what Fred calls a timeless album. The songs are contemporary, save two traditional tunes that have grown and changed over many years, but the arrangements are not tied to our own era. The sound of this record is a journey through American roots music, thanks to Fred's guidance.
In short, I am thrilled with the results of our work together, and cannot wait for the rest of you to hear what we've done. "Threshold" will be available for purchase online and at live shows in June, but if you want to get a copy as soon as I get them in my hands, click HERE to pre-order. I will love you for it forever.
Wishing you a joyful springtime and until we meet again,
Peace,
cs
Finishing the Hat - April 1, 2011
Is it April already? I nearly died of excitement when I spotted a crocus outside my building the other day...
But excited as I am about that lovely harbinger of Spring, what I'm really jazzed about right now is the mixing of the new record - which, I am happy to say, finally has a name. It's called Threshold and I am not ashamed to tell you it sounds great!
I suppose that may have something to do with the fact that I am privileged to have a terrific cast of players on this project: MIKE WEATHERLY on upright bass, CHERYL PRASHKER on drums, FRED GILLEN and STEVE KIRKMAN on guitars, SARA MILONOVICH on violin, MARK BERUBE on banjo and CATHERINE MILES on backing vocals. It may also have something to do with the fact that FRED GILLEN, JR. is the producer. Working with Fred these past few months has been a joy and a privilege. His open heart and boundless enthusiasm have helped me hear my own music in new ways. I can't wait to share Threshold with everyone!
Of course, if you'd like a copy pretty much as soon as I get one, go to the CONTACT page to pre-order!
Threshold. Yup. Every project ought to have a name...
Cheers!
Carolann
What's in a Name? - March 1, 2011
March, already? Wow. February always seems so much shorter than the other months... despite its brevity, however, it was a month packed with some pretty great stuff.
A highlight of the month (and really, of my career) was a last-minute gig opening for DAVE MASON (of Traffic fame) at Oupost in the Burbs in Montclair, NJ. Aside from the thrill of singing for a huge crowd in the enormous and beautiful sanctuary of the First Congregational Church, what fun to be in the presence of an honest-to-goodness rock star! Dave travels with a whole posse of people in a really groovy bus. Wonder if there was a bowl of M&Ms;with all the green ones removed in his dressing room? I'm just happy to say Dave and his band blew the roof off the place with their energy and musicianship, and it was an honor just to be in the same room with all that talent.
Another highlight is that my forthcoming (and as yet, nameless) CD is really starting to sound like an actual album. FRED GILLEN, JR., my very productive producer, has been helping me take the songs to a somewhat timeless place, bridging the gap between mountain music and modern folk and alt-country in some really groovy ways. For instance, the best Valentine present I ever got was the fantastic - and somewhat retro - backup vocals Fred created with the stellar CATHERINE MILES, otherwise known as the voice of one of my favorite bands, THE YA YAS.
No sneak preview tracks available for listening yet, but my pal GORDON NASH shot some live performance video of "Wash Me Clean," which will be featured on the new record. Click the VIDEO tab above to see it.
Also need a name for the album. Hmmm. But what's in a name, really?
Until next time, campers, I wish you
Peace,
cs
Brrr... - February 1, 2011
Cold. Snowy. Wonderful. Lots of shows, lots of recording, lots of fun!
Here's a groovy video of the big finale of my show with JOE IADANZA at Rain Water Grill in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY in January. Yes, those are members of GATHERING TIME and SPUYTEN DUYVIL you see jamming with us onstage:
Always a thrill to have bunches of people singing this song with me! Thanks to Joe Cromwell for the video!
In other news, recording for the new CD is going splendidly - made kickin' rhythm tracks with percussionist CHERYL PRASHKER and upright bassist MIKE WEATHERLY in January. Adding more special sauce this month in the form of hot fiddle and smokin' guitar. Can't wait to share new tunes with everyone!
Stay warm, y'all. I'm off to put on a sweater.
Peace,
cs
Auld Lang Syne - January 1, 2011
Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?
Like Billy Crystal's character in "When Harry Met Sally," I've never been quite sure what that song means. Should we remember our old acquaintances? Should we forget them? Should we remember that we forgot them? I haven't a clue. But it seems that song - and that kind of uncertainty - is everywhere at this time of year.
As 2011 begins, I choose to look forward with gleeful anticipation. Certainly 2010 was a richly textured year, both in my little life and in the world at large, but I choose to believe that 2011 will top it in every way. So many places to go, so many songs to sing, so many wonderful things yet to experience... As individuals and as a species, we have so much yet to accomplish. I am excited and optimistic as the old year draws to a close and the new one opens up before us like a golden box of Godiva chocolates...
With that in mind, I will be heading into the studio in the coming weeks, recording tracks for what I hope will be a fabulous new record. Brand-new songs, older songs that didn't fit into other projects, and favorite traditional tunes are on the menu. I am ridiculously happy to be working once again with my friend and producer Fred Gillen, Jr., whose skillful hands helped "Glass of Desire" turn out just as I'd hoped. I am also glad to have both old friends and new adding musical mojo to this record. I'll keep you posted here as the project progresses.
Also, as I posted last month, my beloved Christopher Street Coffee House will be reinstating its once-a-month Open Mic Night with Yours Truly as host. Come by with your new tunes, your new poems, or your willing ears. I'll be there every fourth Thursday of the month, starting January 27. Signup is at 6:30, and we get rolling right around 7PM.
Lots of great shows coming down the pike, too! Just in the first few months of the year, I will have the privilege of sharing stages with JOE IADANZA, ANNA COOGAN, VANCE GILBERT, REBECCA PRONSKY, A.J. ROACH, NELS ANDREWS, JOE CROOKSTON, and DAVID WILCOX, plus my dear friends MEG BRAUN and SHARON GOLDMAN. I am truly grateful for the opportunities that have come my way since I set out as a soloist again. My schedule is constantly evolving, so please check the CALENDAR page for all the details on these and other shows.
Happy New Year, everyone! Hope to see you soon.
Peace,
Carolann
The Hostess With the Mostess - December 3, 2010
I am delighted to report that one of my favorite Manhattan hangouts, the Christopher Street Coffeehouse, is reviving its popular open mic night in 2011, and your new host for this monthly evening of song and revelry is none other than Yours Truly! I am very excited about this, and look forward to continuing what my friend Meg Braun began as a safe and fruitful haven for songwriters of all stripes and experience levels in the beautiful sanctuary that is St. John's.
Of course, not only songwriters are welcome. We'd also love to have folks with other performance skills come on down and share what they're working on... so bring your songs, poems, performance art, juggling act, or flea circus, your community spirit, and your sense of fun. I'll be there every fourth Thursday of the month, beginning January 27, 2011. Signup is at 6:30, and we'll get things rolling about 7PM. Check the CALENDAR page for details on each monthly open mic.
See you there!
Peace,
Carolann
Winter Reflections - December 1, 2010
I always find myself reflective at this time of year, as I suppose many of us do. We think about the year's events, both personal and public, and compare what actually happened with what we expected would happen. Predictions for the new year, whether explicit or not, are as plentiful as tourists at Rockefeller Center this time of year, but what does predicting get us? A sense of excitement and hope, perhaps?
Despite the fact that I hocked my crystal ball ages ago, I can't help wondering what the new year will bring - but only in bite-size pieces, since long-term planning gives me the shivers. I cannot predict what I will be doing next year at this time, but I do know what the next two months will bring. At least in terms of my musical life...
I will be playing only a few key shows in December, spending most of the holiday season quietly enjoying the view as my beloved Brooklyn slides from fall into winter, and preparing for a very busy January.
The dawning of the new year brings six shows for me - two with my buddy JOE IADANZA - in NY, MA, CT and NJ. In between, I will be spending some quality time at Woody's House, working on a new solo CD with my friend and producer FRED GILLEN, JR.
Although my predictions are short-range, I am very excited, and very hopeful. Happy Hanukkah, Happy Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy December, friends! May the new year fill your heart with excitement, love, and
Peace,
Carolann
Thankful in November - November 1, 2010
Woody Allen. That's who I'm thinking of as November begins. Something about this month makes me want to snuggle on the couch with a glass of red wine and watch "Hannah and Her Sisters" for the four millionth time. Yes, friends, I think this may still be my favorite film ever, for myriad reasons, not the least of which is its visual feast of images of Autumn in New York. I love my city, especially at this time of year.
November is also a month wherein I count my blessings. I imagine I am not alone in that, since we've got a national holiday dedicated to that very purpose. This year, I am thankful for so many things, especially the tremendous support I've received from so many good people. Whether you've come out to a show, sent a note, bought a CD, told a friend about my music, or laughed at one of my lame jokes, I am ever grateful for you. Life is good when you're surrounded by good folks. I sure am...
November is sure be pretty exciting musically, too, as I return to some favorite venues and play with some favorite folks. Mid-month brings a pilgrimage to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance, a conference where all us folkies meet to jam and talk business. Yup, we actually do business sometimes...
Oh, and this month, I begin pre-production on my next album project. I'll be working once again with producer FRED GILLEN, JR. Wahoo! Hoping to record this winter and have the finished product ready for release before the snow melts. Stay tuned, friends!
Until we meet again, I wish you
Peace,
cs
New Jersey is Lovely in October - October 1, 2010
September ended on a high note for me, with three really satisfying shows in one weekend, and the videos to prove it. Here's a new tune, "Hound Dogs in August," as performed in my opening set for country star PHIL VASSAR in Moristown, New Jersey on September 23:
And here's another new one, "The Shadow," as performed at Peekskill Coffee House when I opened for FRED GILLEN, JR. on September 24:
October is going to be tons of fun - shows in Manhattan, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. Even I have to check the CALENDAR page to find out what happens next... Thanks for coming along for the ride.
Until we meet again, I wish you
Peace,
Carolann
Nashville Comes to New Jersey - September 22, 2010
...and I, my friends, get to be the welcoming committee.
Tomorrow evening, I have the distinct privilege of opening a concert for country star PHIL VASSAR at the Mayo Center for the Performing Arts in Morristown, New Jersey (see CALENDAR page for details). Phil is best known as a songwriter, penning #1 hits for Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, Jo Dee Messina, and Collin Raye, but has garnered three more #1 songs as an artist in his own right.
I am honored. And excited. If you like good, solid, country songwriting, Phil Vassar is your man, so come on out. And I will be there to greet you for 20 minutes before Phil graces the stage.
Kevin Coughlin of Morristown Green just published a lovely piece in support of this show, featuring Yours Truly:
New shows, new season, new clothes. Well, that last thing is negotiable, I suppose, but definitely fun to think about. And I'm thinking about lots of things lately.
First of all, my not-a-baby-anymore starts school next week. Wow. All the parents I've spoken to since I became one were definitely not kidding about time speeding up as your kids grow. Although it's merely Pre-K I'll be sending my little boy off to, I feel it's a big milestone for both of us. I'm sure Mom will shed more tears than he will on day one.
In musical news, I've been writing lots and editing more as I prepare to record a new CD this winter. I'm hoping for a mix of newly-penned originals and traditional tunes. I do so love Appalachian ballads and mountain gospel.
I am thankful for the opportunity to play with good friends this month - FRED GILLEN, JR., STEVE KIRKMAN, and ERIC PUENTE of HOPE MACHINE, MEG BRAUN and AVIV ROTH. Each one of these musicians inspires me in a different way. I'm hoping to absorb a little musical mojo this month.
Check my CALENDAR page for upcoming shows. Hope to see you soon. Until I do, I wish you good friends, good cheer, and
Peace,
Carolann
The Next Chapter - August 1, 2010
Well, folk fans, this is my very first update as an unemployed bassist...
Yes, it's true. I played my last shows with Red Molly July 23-25 at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival in Hillsdale, New York. Bittersweet, indeed, since Falcon Ridge was where it all began for Red Molly back in July of 2004. Six years can really fly by when you're busy taking the folk scene by storm.
Now that Red Molly's calendar is far too full to be conducive to raising a child or cultivating a marriage, I have stepped aside to begin the next chapter of my life back where I began - as a singer/songwriter.
Though I will be sticking closer to home in the coming months, I am glad to report that my solo performance calendar is filling up just enough for my liking. Three shows this month, in Long Island, Manhattan and Philadelphia. Join me if you're able. I'd love to see friends new and old as I strike out on my own.
Here's to the waning of summer, and the approach of fall, which has always been a time of new beginnings for me. Fresh new notebooks, anyone?
Peace,
Carolann
Onward - July 1, 2010
Hi Friends ~
I am beyond grateful for all the expressions of support and encouragement I received in reply to my last newsletter. A thousand thanks to everyone who sent a note, signed up on the mailing list, or just sent good vibes my way. I appreciate every single one of you, and I am delighted to know you are willing to ride out this transition with me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Since July is my last month on the road with Red Molly, I will cherish every moment, and hope to see some of you along the way.
Beginning in August, I strike out alone. Check my calendar page to know where to find me when I'm not in Brooklyn.
Until next time, I wish you
Peace,
Carolann
Endings and Beginnings - June 15, 2010
Today is June 15, 2010, and I have big news to share, friends…
As Red Molly’s calendar shifts toward extended national tours, I will no longer perform with the band, but will instead pursue solo opportunities that allow for greater balance between the two loves of my life – family and music.
My last shows with Red Molly will be at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival in Hillsdale, New York, July 23-25. Fitting, indeed, since Red Molly was born on a hillside at Falcon Ridge in 2004. Things have truly come full circle.
Beginning in August, our friend Molly Venter will join Red Molly in my stead. I heartily endorse this choice and wish the band continued success.
As sad as I am that Red Molly will now become part of my past, I am excited about my musical future. I am currently sketching out a new solo record, and will continue to perform on my own, albeit on a more limited basis. Please do check my Calendar page for details on upcoming dates, and join the email list, so we can stay in touch.
Red Molly has the best fans a band could ever hope for, and I shall not soon forget the many wonderful people I have met on this amazing journey. The past six years have been nothing short of incredible, and I do hope that I have been able to return to our audiences at least a small part of the joy I have received from performing with Red Molly.
Until we meet again, I wish you love, peace, and lots of great music.
Carolann
New Video! - April 5, 2010
Had a perfectly marvelous time playing Caffe Vivaldi in NYC with MEG BRAUN and CHERYL PRASHKER on Saturday night. Bill King was there with his video camera, and posted a few tunes on YouTube:
Behind the Door
JerseyLad611 also was there and took a few nifty vids. Here's one:
Michael
Thanks to all who came out to hear, and special thanks to Bill and JerseyLad611 for documenting the event!
Pax,
cs
Springing Forward - March 16, 2010
Hello, friends!
We are enjoying the loveliest afternoon here in Brooklyn - sunny and mild, with just the hint of a breeze in the air. I happily spent the afternoon soaking in the pre-spring warmth, drying out my soul (and my boots) after the soggy, soggy nor'easter weekend...
I have two exciting things to announce this month - a solo show in Manhattan, plus a new release on Elizabeth Records!
First, the show:
Saturday, April 3, 7-9PM
Carolann Solebello and Meg Braun
Caffe Vivaldi
32 Jones Street
New York, NY 10014
212.691.7538
I am delighted to be sharing an evening onstage with Meg Braun, a fine songwriter and dear friend. The inimitable Cheryl Prashker sits in on percussion, and perhaps a CC Railroad song or two, duet-style... Come join us for pasta, wine, and music.
Next, the new release:
Victoria Lavington
Made For Roses
Some of you may remember Victoria as one half of Molly Pitcher, which released the critically acclaimed CD Watching the Rain on Elizabeth Records in 2001. Since then, Victoria has spent her time pursuing other interests, i.e. completing a Masters degree, marrying, and raising a young daughter.
Just as she was beginning to focus on music again and return to performing, Victoria was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Transforming her initial devastation into determination, she is facing recovery with strength, resilience, and grace.
Made For Roses is part of that recovery. Recorded during Victoria's hiatus from live performance, these songs represent her more recent writing and hopes for a full-length solo recording sometime in the near future.
"Besides being beautiful, inside and out, Victoria has -- in my opinion -- the voice of an angel and the songwriting pen of a folk goddess." - Sharon Goldman, SongwritingScene.com