Musicians Join Forces at Open Mic Night

Amidst the whirring of espresso grinders and sputtering hiss of steaming milk, the lobby of Recess Coffee echoed a musical mélange of some of the Westcott neighborhood's local talent this past Wednesday during an open mic event. Musicians trickled in leisurely, casually mixing their voices and instruments together rather than performing separately. Covers of "Piano Man," "Isn't She Lovely," "Radioactive," and "American Pie" fell into the mix as well as a few original songs.

The laid-back, communal vibe fostered a warm, inviting atmosphere where musicians were free to bear their souls to strangers without fear of judgement or criticism. Perhaps the setting lended itself too well to the comfort of a friend's living room, as two guests tested their luck by cracking beers on the couch while observing their comrades. The alcohol imbibers were promptly asked to leave, and the music carried on, ending the evening with a boisterous rendition of "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles).

A violist and guitarist collaborate while other musicians look on

Root SHOCK Rocks the Seward House Museum

At a museum fundraiser you might expect your ears to be caressed by the gentle, wooing sounds of a small stringed ensemble. This Saturday in Auburn, NY during the Culinary Expedition Fundraiser at the Seward House Museum, however, the humid July air wafted the crisp and charismatic tunes of Syracuse reggae group Root SHOCK. Event patrons munched on gourmet catered delights inspired by William Seward's travels around the globe as they contentedly hovered around cocktail tables, merrily swaying with wine cups in hand.

Jessica Brown's powerful leading vocals can strike suddenly like a bow to the heart as she expertly hits the higher notes, authentically pouring her soul into the mic. She makes you feel a deeper connection to the music. Though sentimental at times, Root SHOCK can also exhibit a more playful side, evidenced by the sporty shades rocked by guitarist and vocalist Phil Grajko during a Stevie Wonder cover of Master Blaster. Brown and Grajko were complemented by drummer Fa Fa Fain, guitarist Dan Valvassori, bassist Bill Eppel, and keyboardist Nick Czarkam, rounding out a tight crew as they fluidly jammed on the back porch of the historic brick mansion.