On Saturday night, I went to the Hillside Cafe. Since I have almost 30,000 subscribers I know you do not know this place. The Hillside Cafe is a non-profit that supports original musicians, touring and occasionally local, in their spot in Nutley. The acoustics were fantastic, and I left this live music show feeling lighter and happier.
The opening act is good friend of mine who happens to be the real deal: recording artist Paul Gargiulo. Click here to read his profile/feature story.
Paul was just on fire last night. This was the kind of place people pay - only $12 - and actually sit and listen to music.
Yes, sit and listen.
There are no televisions blaring, no sports on anywhere, no drunken conversations. It is a truly endearing - and to me - very important slice of Americana.
I have seen Paul play live many times. But at the Hillside Cafe, it was as if I got to see him shine in a totally new way. I saw the energy and respect of the crowd for a gifted musician envelope him like a melodic aura.
Then, Baltimore husband and wife due Naked Blue did a set that totally put me into heaven. These two are just heartbreakingly good. The lyrics, the chemistry, the tempo and the addictive songs sent me home feeling like I had won a music lottery.
So why this piece?
I am frustrated and concerned about the lack of spots where musicians who perform original music can share their talents. They are too few and far between.
I wanted to offer a list of places nearby that I know of for original music. But I need your help: send me your ideas of who to add to this list. I just can't sit in a noisy bar and listen to one more cover band playing bad versions of rock n'roll. And you know I grew up on rock n'roll so I love it.
Here are a few venues to visit. But please - help me add more. I really have gotten to the place in my life where listening to live music is not a hobby - it is a necessity.
Outpost in the Burbs: Montclair New Jersey: This non-profit all volunteer group puts on shows and brings a lovely, affordable music venue to downtown montclair.
The Hillside Cafe: Located inside an historic church in Nutley, New Jersey, this is a place built for sound. The charming room has high ceilings and a lovely, small town feel.
Montclair Main Stage (The BID): This is a free outdoor concert every Saturday, from noon to 8:00 p.m. Often the performers will do covers but they just do it well. This is high quality free music offered by the BID and also an experienced music producer, Joann Smalls.
Hat City: If you have not checked out the urban explosion of sound in Orange - along with the entire arts scene - do it soon. I will be there July 12 for a very special show - join me if you want to help me. This place has a full bar, a restaurant with award winning food and a true stage.
The Wellmont: This is about to make a major change, and expect more original smaller acts to sometimes perform before those big names. The Wellmont is a major music venue, and is an important musical cornerstone in our area.
Growing up in Rhode Island when I did, I heard live music every weekend free of charge. Bonnie Raitt, Joe Cocker, even Rod Stewart (in the old days) all came to play.
I have been discovering a large number of truly talented artists hiding right in plain sight - with not many places to play.
Let's change it. If you are willing, so am I.
Please don't let the music die.
